Rugby Club Issue 61 | Page 93

Wisbech out competitions in their different guises: Tetley’s Vase, Powergen Vase, EDF Vase, and RFU Vase. In 1996-97 and 2007-08 we reached the quarterfinals losing to Tredworth RFC and Castleford RFC. The competition run of 1996-97 saw the Club earn notoriety in the national press as the ‘Thirst XV’ following a home win against Stowmarket RFC which saw the Club run out of beer within only a few hours of the final whistle. In November 2011 plans were drawn up for a clubhouse extension which was opened in September 2013. This extension provides additional social space and is available for hire. Thus far parties, Christenings, wakes, a craft group, a fitness group and a local band needing a rehearsal space have used this valuable facility. The Club has a programme of prematch lunches and sponsors’ events that see as many as 100 people entertained in the extension. The extension was funded solely by the Club and its very active VP’s Association. The driving force behind the project was Peter Turner, the Club President. In August 2014 the Club started to work with the RFU Lead Up & Legacy programme on a social spaces project which was completed in August 2015. The project was managed by Dick Pettit, Club Chairman, and involved many club members and supporters who gave valuable funds, time, expertise and services. Wisbech RUFC prides itself in providing a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for visiting teams, referees and families. Wisbech RUFC has been a regular winner of the Whistler’s Trophy awarded by Cambridge University Rugby Referees Society. Many of the criteria for the award are based on facilities, welcome and conduct towards officials. As with all rugby clubs the main challenges are recruitment and retention of players and finances. Wisbech RUFC is increasingly unique in that it is a town centre club and is the only rugby within a 12 mile radius of the town of Wisbech. We opted to stay in the town centre when the club was redeveloped in the late 1990s. This gives us an opportunity to promote rugby union and the Club to the local community. We have developed excellent sponsorship links with local, national and international businesses. These sponsors have provided essential support for mini and youth rugby at Wisbech RUFC and we are very grateful for the generosity of our sponsors. THE GLOBE SECOND OLDEST PUB IN WISBECH Our warm friendly welcoming atmosphere ensures your night out will be a memorable one. Wide selection of real ales available. Affordable bar food traditionally cooked. Call us for more information (01945) 463 565 52 Market Place, Wisbech, PE13 1DY www.sportip.biz 93