1. art and entertainment
2. shows and events
3. sports event

X8 786The NAG (Northern Action Group) Survey North of EnglanLkm
X
Index :1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)
Club
Name of Contact
Position in Club
Home Landline Contact No.
Mobile Telephone Number
E Mail Address
Current number of Clubs in your League
Do You support the Review (Some gaps here as the questionnaire was altered slightly) Actually the responses answer this question generally.
Would you prefer to retain your current 14 team structure
Would you prefer your current structure to move to 14
Are you content to let teams currently 14 continue as such
Could you consult your Captain and offer players’ view
Was your Club consulted by the Review Group
14)
Other Comments
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 8
9 10 11 12 13
Nat. 3 North
Beverley
Dave Holmes
Chairman
Dave.holmes.rugby@hotmail.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Billingham
Chris Emery
Secretary
Firwood Waterloo
Dave Raywood
Chairman
0151 924 4552
07770 484485 daveraywood@blueyonder.co.uk
secretary@billinghamrugby.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
Sandal
Peter Tunningley Chairman
01226 722 123
07710886741
no
Peter.tunningley@talktalk.net
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
Sheffield Tigers
Tim Waller
Secretary
01433639144
no
Westoe
David Arundel
Chairrman
01914545842
07904221122
secretary@sheffieldtigers.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
07947641348
David.arundel2@virginmedia.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
Wirral
Steve Fergusson
Fix. Sec.
0151 327 4368
07944 848128 stevefergiwirral@hotmail.com
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
07764616783
Morley
Dennis Elam
Secretary
0113 252 4348
Dennis.elam@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Lymm
James Ferguson
Secretary
01925757494
not known
James.fergy@tesco.net
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
01274869364
07753438042
alanbentley@live.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07855717058
rupertasnith@gmail.com
14
no
yes no
yes 14
yes
07785365533
Julianross1190@gmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
yes
Cleckheaton
Alan Bentley
President
Sale
Rupert Smith
Secretary
Burnage
Julian Ross
Chairman
01614390013
Huddersfield YMCA
Damon Scholes
Direct Rugby
01484305330
Damon.scholes@ntlworld.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
Rossendale
Alec Graham
Secretary
01282855400
07778251253
a.graham@sjlaw.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes yes no
** Sandbach (play in Midlands)
Robin Astles
Chairman
01477500221
07801743824
robinastles@btinternet.com14
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Bob Lloyd
Vice President
01513424711
07778722405
Rjohnlloyd1942@tiscali.co.uk
14
yes yes n/a
yes 14
no
07836655305
captain@boltonrugby.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07766512552
Paul.thorpe@isg-techno;logy.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
North One West
Birkenhead Park
Bolton *
Les Towler
Captain &All
01942876960
Eccles *
Paul Thorpe
Secretary
01617902622
Kirby Lonsdale
David Williams
Treasurer
01524272582
ddavidtffy@aol.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Penrith *
Ian Davidson
Secretary
01768865256
07799033198
ianmdavidson@yahoo.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Warrington *
Richard WoodwardChairman
01925471568
07823536236
Richard.woodward@baml.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 12
yes
Wilmslow
Barry Fisher
Asst Secretary
01614392972
----------------
Barry.fisher@hotmail.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Carlisle
David Morton
Secretary
01228 515 486
07912110782
Mortwas82@aol.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
New Brighton
Frank Duff
------------
------------
07970745369
nbfcru@duffduff.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
07825688523
Phil.stott@batemans.bmw-net.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07785728700
chairman@broughton-park.org.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07771794688
abongo@sky.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07713260466
Derekd_1213@fsmail.net
14
yes yes n/a
yes 14
no
07860565341
Sgreen514@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
Vale of Lune
Phil Stott
Direct Rugby
01524 822669
Broughton Park *
Dave Poppit
Chairman
01614344808
Wigton *
Dave Halliday
Fix. Sec
Widnes *
Derek Dyer
Fix. Sec
Kendal
Stephen Green
Chairman
01539722824
North One East
Dinnington
response
14
Driffield
Northern
Old Crossleyans
Percy Park
Pocklington
West Hartlepool
Bradford & Bingley
Horden
Alnwick
Wheatley Hills
Rochdale *
Ilkley
Sheffield
North Lancs/Cumbria
Aldwinians
Blackburn *
De La Salle *
St. Benedicts *
Tarleton *
Upper Eden
Whitehaven
Aspatria
Wigan
Furness
Fleetwood
Hawcoat Park
Leigh *
Heaton Moor
North Lancs. Div. 1
Ashton u Lyne *
Birchfield
St. Edwards O.B. *
Thornton Cleveleys *
Trafford MV *
Garstang *
Didsbury Toc H *
Oldham *
North Manchester *
response
Andre James
D.o. Rugby
01912850700
07739420391
andypjamers@yahoo.co.uk
07769705558
nick@percyparkrfc.co.uk
response
Mick Ishida
Fix. Sec.
response
01429420274
Godfrey HainsworthSecretary
07741497434
captainbeff@hotmail.com
response
Richard Thirkell
N/A
Secretary
07969457850
richy@thirkell.fsnet.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes n/a
14
no
yes n/a
yes yes no
14
no
yes n/a
yes
yes
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes
Refusal to complete !!!!!!!!!
response
Tim Taylor
Andrew Munro
Secretary
Chair Rugby
01943602579
yes
yes n/a
yes
no
07770854982
thste@btopenworld.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
07741450710
andrewmmunro@outlook.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
response
Chairman
01613559624
0766087945
wthorpe@yahoo.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Graham Bancroft Disc Off.
County01254201366
Rep
Bill Thorpe
07814869430
grahambancroft@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Stephen Parrott
Fix. Sec.
01617720606
07707330974
Stephenparrott649@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Stephen Howse
Secretary
01946599657
07590267268
Showse19@aol.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Steve Bradley
Manager
01772814162
07754525146
Sbrad251@googlemail.com
14
yes yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Mark Peatfield
Chairman
01768372431
07813431128.wanadoo.co.uk
edenoutdoors@kirbystephen.wanadoo.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Mary Gaffney-Vallely
Secretary
0194665882
07725001972
gaffers@hotmail.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
David Saul
Secretary
01697343051
djsaul@talktalk.net
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Martin Rigby
chairrman
01942518799
martinrigby@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Kenneth Oliver
Chairmam
Kenneth_Oliver@btconnect.com
Colin Goodwin
Chairman
John Horne
Chairman
07747111348
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07710 95- 939 c.goodwin@tisca;i.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yrs
14
no
01229837178
07831693024 Horne-john2@sky.com
14
No
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Michael Hampson Secretary
01942523496
07939263560
m.hampson54@btinternet.com
14
yes no
n/a
no
yes
David Todd
Secretary
01614320943
davidntodd@gmail.com
14
yes no
m/a yes 12
no
Kath Carr
Secretary
Cliff Christie
Fix. Sec,
01514240526
David Moran
Chairman
01514801459
Geoff Davies
Secretary
12
07985054126
aulrfcsec@aol.co.uk
12
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
07786228404
Cliff.christie@coveris.com
10
no
n/a
no
no
12
no
07740981938
Davidmoran22@hotmail.com
11
yes n/a
no
no
12
no
07885626870
geoffflyn@btinternet.com
12
no
n/a
yes yes 14
yes
bernardmillington@yahoo.co.uk
11
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
yes yes yes 14
no
Bernard Millington D.O.Rugby
01925269328
Frank Purkis
Secretary
01524858854
07877854400
purkisfc@hotmail.com
10
no
Trevor Wooding
Secretary
01704573364
07717861183
woodingtrevor@yahoo.co.uk
11
yes m/a yes yes 14
yes
Stephen Ingham
Chair Select.
05533429161
Stephen@stepheningham.orangehome.co.uk
10
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
tomo66@msn.com
11
no
n/a
yes yes 14
n
Ian Thompson
Chairman
01616439387
Littleborough *
Burnley
North Lancs. Div. 2
Brian Hurst
President
0161 682 1867
Steve Jackson
Secretary
01282697874
Clitheroe
Colne & Nelson *
Crosby St. Marys *
Eagle
Hutton *
Carnforth *
Bury *
Pendle *
Old Bedians
Newton Le Willows *
Bob Wilkinson
Secretary
1200425187
Keith Thornton
Secretary
01282602661
Neil Adshead
Secretary
01704873607
Craig Harper
Chairman
07734453644
Steve Northwood Secretary
07976593956
07947500956
07962099935
Brian_hurst@btinternet.com
11
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
s.jackson.770@btinternet.com
11
no
n/a
yes yes 14
yes
bobjwilkinson@gmail.com
10
yes n/a
yes yes 14
no
kitjel@hotmail.co.uk
10
no
n/a
yes yes 14
yes
10
no
no
n/a
10
yes
craigleeharper@hotmail.co.uk
10
yes n/a
yes yes 14
yes
Steve11932@yahoo.co.uk
10
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
07841995464
n/a
Secretary
01524732196
07733130234
alanh@travelleruk.com
10
yes n/a
yes yes 14
no
Chairman
01204884406
07800812221
Garychester1@hotmail.co.uk
10
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Keith Waddington Chairman
01282816757
07885038287
Jane.waddington@sky.com
10
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
07958618701
Stevej_cook@hotmail.co.uk
10
yes n/a
no
no
07984415588
Nigela.mcnamara@ntlworld.com
10
yes n/a
yes yes 14
Alan Hardy
Gary Chester
Steven Cook
Chairman
yes 12
Nigel Mcnamara
Secretary
01925479352
Creighton *
Egremont *
Keswick *
Millom *
Netherhall *
Chris Small
Secretary
01228520541
07941555434
smallyc@talktalk.net
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Jeff Edgar
County Rep
01946824815
07835737063
Jeff.joanedgar@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Gen. Committee
01768773051
07775726292
Alan.krufc@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Bill Dowbiggin
Club Runner
01229405
07801247320
billdowbiggin@aol.com
14
yes no
n/a
yes 12
no
David Atkinson
Secretary
01900814429
David.atkinson@thomasarmstrong.co.uk
14
yes yes n/a
yes 12
yes
Silloth *
Ronnie Bell
Fix. Secretary
01697331492
ronniebell@toucansurf.com
14
yes yes n/a
yes 12
no
Nigel Rimmer
Secretary
01539448100
07756024049
n.rimmer65@hotmail.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Michael Heaslip
Secretary
0190066339
07786625859
michael@heaslip.fslife.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Brian Mitchelhill Sec,/Ref Contact01900825366
07800613122
Brian.mitchelhill@sky.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
01946599344
07710680786
kellprop@hotmail.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
01612141500
07867502946
Andrew.bridgman@ntlworld.com
14
NO yes n/a
yes 14
no
-----------
-------
----------
cjohnson@northwichrufc.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Martin Swift
Chairman
01744678531
07811‘965117
Arthur Stewart
Chair Rugby
01744882968
07884435578
yes
Cumbria
Windermere *
Workington *
Cockermouth *
Moresby *
South Lancs. Ches. 1
Manchester
Manchester Medics *
Northwich
Ruskin Park *
Sefton *
West Park St. Helens
Winnington Park
Liverpool St. Helens
Altrincham Kersal
Anselmians
Bowdon
Stephen Kellett
Fix. Sec.
Andrew Bridgman Chair Rugby
Colin Johnson
14
yes n/a
yes 12
no
Arthur-stewart@sky.com
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Eric Briers
01744734665
margerc@virginmedia.com
14
Brian Concannon Chairman
0160641065
07736899454
Brian.concannon@rs-components.com
14
Ray French
President
0174429874
07850613784
Raymond.french@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Chris Stewart
Direct Rugby
chris@dunhaminvestment.co.ul
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Trevor Petterson
Secretary
0151608540
07788192095
pettersy@msn.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
0161 980 8321
07713091634
Martin.gallagher@gplgroup.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Martin Gallagher Direct Rugby
no
Douglas I.O.M.
Glossop
Hoylake
Carrington
South Lancs. Ches. 2
Karl Mason
Secretary
Paul Whiston
Treasurer
Rob Kurton
HeadCoach
James Ogg
Club Captain
01612781907
Liverpool Collegiate *
Marple
Orrell
Oswestry
Port Sunlight
Prenton
Tyldesley *
Dukinfield
Moore
Ashton on Mersey
Vagabonds I.O.M.
Southport *
Ormskirk *
Trentham *
Chris Jones
Bill Newton
captain
01612850847
07957846728
Matt Grundy
Secretary
07835649069
07739446565
Crewe & Nantwich Mid L
South Lancs. Ches. 3
Linley *
Liverpool University
Oldershaw
Oxton Parkonians
Ramsey I.O.M.
Knutsford *
Helsby
Ellesmere Port
Congleton
Capenhurst
Wallasey
Acton Nomads
Yorkshire 1
Bridlington
Doncaster Phoenix
Heath
Selby
Wath upon Dearne
Yarnbury
York
01457861457
07624450996
kcwmason@live.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
07748332891
Paul.whiston@btconnect.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07584343867
robkurton@yahoo.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07782172694
jamesogg@live.co.uk
13
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Newton912@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
matt@orrelljuniors.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yesa 14
no
donhowell@talktalk.net
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
u/k
u/k
u/k
u/k
Refuse to complete
Don Howell
Chairman
01691670295
Mike McMillan
Secretary
01513342842
Gary Fisher
Secretary
14
n/a
07944848128
prentonrugbysec@gmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Peter Mannion
Secretary
01942881325
07974709046
Peter.mannion@bauhauconsultants.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Gareth Callen
Secretary
n/available
07944432241
drufcscretary@gmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes ?
n/k
Mike Butler
Treasurer
0192526657
n/a
treasurer@moorerufc.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Neil Peden
President
O7802538032
npeden@greystonees.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Chris Taggart
President
01624628710
07624481513
christaggart@manx.net
14
no
n/a
no
yes
Mark Baillie
Direct Rugby
01695572523
07540050171
Mark_bailie@sky.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
James Gibson
Fix. Sec.
07791144954
Jamesalexandergibson1981@gmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
07824424245
Les_briers@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
jonathannatty@yahoo.co.uk
11
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
11
no
n/a
yes yes
11
no
n/a
yes yes yes no
no
12
Consulting Lancashire !!!!
Les Briers
Treasurer
01270585049
Jonathan Natty
Secretary
01782772861
07595667320
Simon Spreag
Secretary
01516526633
07766943908
Richie Beckett
President
01516082495
07425150124
Wilf Moffat
Secretary
Greg Sawyer
Fix. Sec
Stan Garner
Fix. Secretary
randpbeckett@gmail.com
07624470094
01565228735
07738150898
no
11
n/a
yes yes 14
yes
fixtures@knutsfordrugby.com
11
yes n/a
no
no
stangarner@btinternet.com
11
yes n/a
yes yes 14
no
n/a
yes yes yes yes
n/a
yes ?
yes
Stephen DorringtonHead Coach
015151228929
07921483577
Steve.dorrington@ntlworld.com
11
Mark Partridge
01782912546
07581750462
Mark.partridge@2sfg.com
11
yes yes 14
yes
Graeme Ainsworth Secretary
01244381509
07982708202
moxyainsworth@btopenworld.com
10
no
n/a
yes yes
yes
Andrew McLean
Tony Penance
0151 512 2989
07853167387
07877910374
secretaryanrfc@yahoo.co.uk
11
12
no
no
n/a
n/a
yes yes 14
yes yes 14
No
No
response
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
response
14
no
yes n/a
yes
no
response
14
no
yes n/a
yes
yes
Director Rugby
Secretary
Secretary
Middlesborough
Malton and Norton
Hullensians
Scarborough
Pontefract
Old Brodlians
North Ribblesdale
response
14
no
yes n/a
response
14
no
yes n/aq yes yes no
yes
no
response
14
no
yes n/a
14
yes no
14
yes
yes
no
no
yes
yes no
no
no
no
14
yes no
no
no
yes
14
yes no
no
no
no
response
14
no
yes yes yes
no
response
14
no
no
yes
response
14
yes
response
14
no
Yorkshire 2
Barnsley
response
Bradford Salem
Goole
Roundhegians
response
Sheffield Medicals
response
West Leeds
West Park Leeds
Leeds Medics & Dentists response
Knottingley
Keighley
Ripon
Old Rishworthians
Moortown
Leodensians
Yorkshire 3
Aireborough
Baildon
Bramley Pheonix
Old Otliensians
Rotherham Phoenix
Stocksbridge
Thornensians
Hemsworth
Northallerton
Old Grovians
Old Modernians
Burley
Castleford
Harrogate Pythons
yes yes
no
yes yes yes
no
14
response
14
yes no
no
no
yes
response
14
no
no
no
no
yes
response
14
yes no
no
no
no
14
no
response
response
yes ywes yes
yes
Yorkshire 4
Hornsea
Leeds Corinthians
Mosborough
Sheffield Oaks
Wensleydale
Wetherby
Skipton
Knaresborough
Halifax Vandals
Halifax
York Railway Institute
Ossett
response
11
no
yes
yes
no
response
11
no
yes yes yes
no
response
11
yes yes yes
no
response
11
yes no
yes
no
response
11
yes
yes
no
response
8
no
response
8
response
8
response
Yorkshire 5
Hallamshire
Hessle
Stanley Rodillians
Thirsk
Rotherham Clifton
Garforth
Wibsey
Rossington Hornets
Durham/North. 1
Gosforth
Hartlepool Rovers
Medicals
Morpeth
Novocastrians
Ryton *
Stockton
Sunderland *
Guisborough *
Blyth
Consett *
Darlington
Durham City
Gateshead
no
yes yes
yes
yes yes
no
yes no
no
yes
yes
8
yes no
no
yes
no
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
yes n/a
yes 14
No
n/a
yes 14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
no
John Short
Chairman of R
01434673385
07791576864
jjshort@tafoo.co.uk
14
Tony Cooper
Secretary
n/a
n/a
tc@clilley.co.uk
14
Jon Clays
Secretary
01912767387
07792035655
Jon.clays@btinternet.com
14
Ken Fraser
Director of Rugby
k.fraser@macademy.org.uk
14
Andy Leonard
Director of Rugby
07799148515
andyleonard@hotmail.com
14
no
Robin Scott
Dir. Of Rugby
07791042777
robinscott@blueyonder.co.uk
14
yes no
12
no
Keith Kelly
Secretary
07837012474
Keith.kelly@matthey.com
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Paul Geehan
Chairman
07854978358
Paul.geehan@gmail.com
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
John MacKay
Secretary
07802834983
John.mackay@live.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Carlos Correia
Chair Rugby
07738477749
Carlos_correia@o2.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
David Herdman
Chairman
07966495472
herdyjames@googlemail.com
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
A.M. Stowe
Secretary
07971575862
Tony.stowe@harposonlp.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
Tony Howe
County Rep
07759233617
Adhowe65@live.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
Patrick Douglas
Chairman
flyingkeg@blueyonder.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
01642580360
01670352063
01325337111
yes no
yes
no
n/a
Durham/North. 2
David Jackson
Chairman
Barnard Castle *
Keith Wilkinson Chairman
Bishop Aukland *
David Shield
Fixtures Sec
North Shields
Richard MaGlashanSecretary
Ponteland
Keith Barker
Secretary
Redcar *
Mark Appleyard Chairman
Seaton Carew
Fix. Sec.
Whitley Bay Rockliffe David Bennett
Albert
Armstrong
Chairman
Ashington
Stewart Hind
D of Rugby
Hartlepool Rfc
Mark Collins
Chairman
Acklam *
Richard
Jones
Secretary
Winlaton Vulcans *
South Tyneside College *
Steven Fawcett
Secretary
Hatlepool BBOB
Director of Rugby
Brian
Thirlaway
Wallsend *
01833650138
07792105778
djj@headlamhall.co.uk
14
yes n/a
yes 14
no
01388665144
0783614746
keithwilk@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
0191 259 0402
07928052273
Dp.shield@blueyonder.co.uk
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
yes n/a
yes 14
no
yes n/a
Yes 14
Yes
no
12
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
no
no
0191 237 7944
mcglashanfamily@hotmail.com
14
01642482733
barkerkm@hotmail.co.uk
14
01429267337
07939105346
Mark.appleyard2@sky.com
14
01912572174
07930339631
misterben@btinternet.com
14
yes no
01670736891
07500837935
aebarmstrong@googlemail.com
14
no
01429231982
n/a
Stewart.hind@sky.com
14
no
01642312366
07866684201
drthykl@aol.com
14
yes n/a
n/a
yes 14
13
yes
01914145987
07954695374
Richard_jones_8@hotmail.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
yes
01429233409
07887555154
Fawcett1630@btinternet.com
14
no
yes n/a
yes 14
no
bthirlaway@msn.com
14
yes
07552162550
Not available
11
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Durham/North. 3
Houghton
Jarrovians *
Newton Aycliffe *
Prudhoe & Stockscliffe
Richmondshire
Seaham
Chester Le Street *
Yarm
Whitby *
Washington *
Seghill *
Sedgefield *
1
Secretary
Brian Berry
President
07576243796
Brian.berry@ici.comn
12
n/a
no
yes 12
no
Stuart McIvor
Secretary
07732268714
stuartdm@btinternet.com
12
n/a
no
yes 12
no
Peter Jones
Secretary
07866507399
pandsrufc@hotmail.com
12
n/a
no
yes 12
no
Alison Down
Secretary
07966906471
richmondshirerufcsec@hotmail.com
12
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Ray Sutherland
Treasurer
07887938265
ray@brownandsutherland.co.uk
12
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Susan Langley
Secretary
07557530927
Slangley0715@gmail.com
12
n/a
no
yes 12
no
Steve Passman
President
07963763226
stevepassman@ntlworld.com
12
n/a
yes yes 14
no
Emma Garbutt
Secretary
07790927645
Emma.garbutt@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
12
n/a
no
yes 12
no
John Pope
Secretary
07724397929
Johnpope87@googlemail.com
12
yes n/a
yes yes 14
no
Sheila Burgess
Secretary
07504877724
Burgess2@tiscali.co.uk
12
no
n/a
yes yes 14
no
07977115533
Neil;hetherington63@yahoo.co.uk
12
n/a
no
no
7 8
9 10 11 12 13
0191 581 0777
01642648351
01912374056
Neil Hetherington Chairman
2
3
Index :1
2
3
4
5
6
01915842489
Ralph Johnson
Club
Name of Contact
Position in Club
Home Landline Contact No.
Mobile Telephone Number
E Mail Address
4
5
6
yes 12
14
7
Current number of Clubs in your League
8
Do You support the Review (Some gaps here as the questionnaire was altered slightly) Actually the responses answer this question generally.
9
Would you prefer to retain your current 14 team structure
10 Would you prefer your current structure to move to 14
11 Are you content to let teams currently 14 continue as such
12 Could you consult your Captain and offer players’ view
13 Could you please offer comments. ( All comments will be summarised at the foot of the tables as responses are received)
COMMENTS BY CLUB
Burnage ---The reduction to 12 would impact on revenue. If three teams are relegated each year as at present and one is promoted then
there would be little stability in the League. With the possibility of the play off place there could be 5 new teams coming into the League leaving only 7
instead of 9 remaining. As Chairman I have learnt a lot from visiting Clubs who have played at this level for a long time. This is the highest place Burnage
have held. The stability of the league has helped the Club to progress and make educated decisions in relation to forward planning.
Julian Ross Chairman.
Sandbach --supporters.
We find the current League structure manageable and to reduce it would financially harmful and hugely disappointing for our
Robin Astles Chairman
Billingham ---- Response was that reducing league games and adding County Fixtures (which has proven in the past as unpredictable) would not be
welcomed as the lads enjoy playing regular rugby which a structured league offers.
Chris Emery Secretary.
Kendal -------The Meetings I went to before the decision was made by the RFU Council were implacably against the change to 12 team Leagues,
now that I hear the promised Cup games will not materialise I am convinced this was a cynical ruse.. I don’t believer there was a proper consultation
process. We shall lose players to other sports/pastimes if we move to 12 team Leagues and Clubs will struggle even more with their finances.
Stephen Green Chairman
Anselmians --- We were asked to attend a Cheshire Meeting. We would prefer to have more games either at League or Cup level sustaining income is
important otherwise we cannot make improvements to attract players.
Trevor Petterson Secretary
Dukinfield ---- No comment
Gareth Callen Secretary
Holmes Chapel --- We are only a small village side and after a difficult 2013-14 season are beginning to re-build.
12 is manageable for us as we only have a small core of players and last year we struggled to fulfil fixtures.We are in the bottom tier of the Raging Bull
Leagues 5 South. Many other sides have faced difficulties
Darren Saffil Secretary
Lymm ---Would prefer the predictability of fixtures provided by a 14 team league rather than the vagaries of Cup Competitions. We note the R.F.U.
used to organise Cup Competitions until the Sponsorship failed.
James Fergusson Secretary
Marple ------------ It works why change it ???
Bill Newton Club Captain
Moore ------------- No comment
Mike Butler Treasurer
Cleckheaton ----- No Comment
Alan Bentley President/Fixture Secretary
Rossendale ------- No Comment
Alec Graham Secretary
Sheffield Tigers --
No Comment
Tim Waller Honarary Secretary
Clitheroe ----------- No Comment
Bob Wilkinson Secretary
Wigan ------Our concern is that the number of Sponsored 1st XV games would be fewer thus reducing our income. I would add that there are other
aspects of the Review which we would welcome
Martin Rigby Chairman/ Honorary Secretary.
Beverley ------------- No Comment
Dave Holmes Chairman.
Sale FC -------------- Well in the South and in particular the journey times are all long. But many of the Clubs in the South East have 7-9 team Leagues
therefore the financial impact on them as a Club as to opposed to each team is minimal for they will still have as many home games albeit in different
leagues. Here we are struggling to get out three teams and therefore the financial impact is significant in terms of lost home games and will be amplified by
the fact that the loss of games may well result in players getting fed up with long lay offs mid season and leaving rugby.
Seaham -------------- No comment
Ray Sutherland Treasurer
Yarm ----------------- Stay at 14 because re-structturing to 12 in the Leagues above us may result in the forming of a D & N 4 consisting of only 6 Clubs
therefore reducing our Club turnover by 50%.
Steve Passman President
Hartlepool RFC ----- Due to the addition of Acklam back into the D & N leagues the league size has increased to 14 teams. This was decided at the end
of the season without any consultation.
Stewart Hind Director of Rugby.
Horden RFC ---------- No indication of player burn out and less teams mean less games
Richard Thirkell Secretary
Houghton -------------- No Comment
Ralph Johnson Secretary
West Harlepool ----- Captain saw no evidence from players wanting a reduced number of games. They are conscious of the financial implications for
the Clubs. Plus relegation from 12 team Leagues a bigger issue.
Godfrey Ainsworth Secretary
Darlington ----------
No Comment
A.M. Stowe Secretary
Seaton Carew ------
Clubs at our level rely on income from our home games, the loss of two home games would put a serious dent in our finances.
Mark Appleyard Chairman.
Stockton ------------- We have been asked the same question a number of times with different proposals by various sources and our answer has been 14
from the start. We are not interested in starting other meaningless competitions to “bulk up” the games played.
Keith Kelly Secretary.
Hartlepool B.B.O.B. No Comment
Steven Fawcett Secretary
Hartlepool Rovers --- No Comment
Tony Cooper Secretary
Firwood Waterloo -positions.
Our DoR Jan van Deventer and captain Alick Croft take the pragmatic view, as I guess we should expect from men in their
They prefer a 14 team league with 3 relegated to a 12 tean leaguer with 3 relegated given our resultsd over the last few years.
The D o R and p0layers fewlt reasonably positive towards the original Cup proposals – we have traditionally not charged entry to Cup games. But were
prepared to consider it going forward – but losing two guaranteed home cup games means we most likely lose income and that is a significant issue for us,
both because of revenue impact and because it signals a lack of firm commitment to anything the RFU say theyt are going to do. It feels a bit like being
offered a carrot to get agreement then being hit over the head with a stick once agreement id secured
Dave Raywood Chairman
Wirral ---------------- No Comment
Steve Fergusson Fixture Secretary
Westoe --------------- Club Finances difficult enough without removing two games also player retention after free weeks.
Sandal --------------- We would prefer larger Leagues we need more home games for revenue.
Peter Tunningley Chairman
Morley -------------- No Comment.
Dennis Elam Secretary.
Huddersfield YMCA – Please note Huddersfield YMCA is totally against the reduction to 12 team Leagues. There are financial ramifications
which could result in the complex losing £12,000 per season. It would also open up the possibilities for players being asked to play Rugby
League in the area when there is a blank weekend and this will allow the sport to lose players, indeed this has already with us losing 2 players in
this scenario last season. The Club can plan around a 14 team season and this allows us to have a sound financial footing. The problems we face
in the North are totally different to those in the South. I am willing to speak openly to the powers that be over this subject as I feel this should be
addressed at the highest level.
Damon Scholes Director of Rugby
Congleton RUFC ----- Congleton RUFC cannot participate fully in the above survey as we are presently in South Lancs. & Cheshire 3 which only has
11 teams in it. However our view is that we are generally supportive of more league fixtures in the season. Oh YES You CAN !!!!!! F.S.
Mark Partridge Director of Rugby
Aspatria ---------------- The loss of two revenue generating home games resulkts in a loss of 15% of our annual martch day revenue. Along with many
other Clubs we are struggling financially and for the RFU to reduce our income stream is unacceptable. (Two members did attend a fact findingsession in
2012 but this could hardly be called a consultation). We believe strongly in player welfare but fail to see how the proposals address this. Players will
choose when to play and a reduction in Fixtureswill only further the exodus to Rugby League.
David Saul Secretary
Furness ------------------ Club supports a 14 team League in all its forms
Kenneth Oliver
Hawcoat Park --------- We are totally against isolating Cumbria in future re-organisations and the potential for Leagues even less than 12
John Horne Chairman
Kendal ------------------ The meetings I went to before the decision was made by the RFU Council were implacably against the change to 12 team
Leagues, now that I hear the promised Cup games will not materialise I an convinced this was a cynical ruse.. I don’t believe there was a proper
consultation process. We shall lose players to other sports/pastimes and Clubs will struggle even more with their finances,
Stephen Green Chairman
Upper Eden ----------- Players want competitive Rugby and no longer see the point of “friendlies” If games were reduced income is reduced so it would
be difficult to keep the Club financially viable which could be disastrous for the well-being of Rugby.
Mark Peatfield Chairman
Carrington ------------ As a low level Club ( Raging Bull NW Leagues) a steady flow of fixtures is important and where possible all leagues should have
the same number of teams to allow for fair competitive rugby at all levels.
James Ogg Club Captain
Helsby --------------- No Comment
Stan Garner Fixture Secretary
Hoylake ---------------We are dependent on revenue generated from the bar. We would lose bar takings with a reduced number of fixtures.We don’t get
to compete in a national cup, which already leaves gaps in our fixture list.Ultimately we are a Rugby Club. We like to play rugby once a week. We have
the Summer to rest.
Rob Kurton Head Coach.
Northern --------------- It is imperative that the present formal structure we enjoy is preserved. The view held by some that gaps in a Clubs fixture list
can be filled by “friendlies” is a myth. Players will only commit to the “important” games. First indication of a friendly and they are unavailable.
Spectators and Sponsorsare only interested in League or National Cup games.
Andy James Chairman of Rugby.
Heaton Moor ------------We would prefer to move to a 12 team league if it meant less travelling which is one of the main reasons for the
recommendations- this view is of ur players. We wouldhowever, ideally need to have the proposed knockout competition implemented, which would
provide at least another 3 matches per season. Possibly more if successful, and make up for the loss of league games and consequentialrevenue -0 this is
the view of our administrators.
The players views take precedence as they are the ones who take part in the game and have to commit to giving up 12 hours or more where long
journeys are necessary, which from our experience is usually 6 to 8 per season – or below or just over 50% of league games. Not being able to field sides
which reflect the relative strength of a club, due to an inability to travel (cannot/will not) makes a mockery of the League.
David Todd Secretary.
Birkenhead Park ------ Less numbers in League reduces the number of games in a season !!
Bob Lloyd Senior Vice President/ Match Secretary.
Medicals ----------------- Prefer a smaller League – Few fixtures around University holiday period.
Jon Clayson Secretary
Vale of Lune --------- Will in no way benefit the Club or players therefore can’t represent progression. RFU has to take grass roots rugby far more
seriously not focus entirely on elite tean/player outcomes. Grass roots rugby is not just about supplying players to elite then neing forgotten !!
Only consulted through meetings but all seemed pre-determined.
Phil Stott Director of Rugby
Bowdon -------------- No Comment
Ponteland ----------- As a Club we were greatly frustrated by the fact the RFU ignored a clear wish from the North of England clubs for our current
structure to continue. However we were not surprised that the RFU ignored grass roots Clubs. Being located in the outer reachesa of England tinkering
with the leagues upsts the balance of our structures in both travelling for some teams and numbers participating. For example the lower leagues need
decent numbers of teams and local(ish) venues not 50 + miles each way every other week to travel.
Richard McGlashan Secretary.
Novocastrians ------- No Comment
Andy Leonard Assistant Director of Rugby.
Oxton Parkonians --- Yes. This current season we have only 20 league games and 8 of them will have been plasyed before November 1st ! All four
Saturdays in September have League games when we feel meaningful friendlies could be played, especiall considering we have a 4 week gap later in the
season. Also we have 2 league games after Easter on 11th and 18th April after a 5 week gap – pointless. The number of league fixtures combined with the
structure and timing of the games is very poor indeed.
Richie Beckett President
Prenton ---------------- No Comment
Gary Fisher Secretary
Oswestry -------------
No Comment
Don Howell Chairman
I.O.M. Vagabonds --- Prefer 12 due to travel
Christopher Taggart President.
New Brighton ---------- No Comment
Frank Duff
Northwich
------------ No Comment
Colin Johnson
Wilmslow ---------------- No Comment
Barry Fisher Assistant Sec.
An observation from Northwich R.U.F.C.
Northwich RUFC have already responded to a similar Survey via Sefton. In short NO we wewre not consulted. NO we don’t want to move from 14 to 12
and YES1 we did consult the players through their Skippers and Head Coach.
We also attended a meeting at Chester RUFC and we told the author of the report, eye to eye, that whilst we felt that his report was comprehensive,
consultation had been far too narrow, too limited and unrepresentative. We therefore felt that his conclusions were not appropriate. Indeed it sometimes
appeared that they had started with the required answers and had then assembled evidence necessary to support that answer.
Our position therefore is that we wish to retain the status quo and any help your group needs please contact us.
Colin Johnson Secretary
Ellesmere Port ---- We play in an 11 team League which is ridiculous – the number needs to increase with a level of urgency. Nobody has supported us
so far !!!
Steve Dorrington
Head Coach
Ashton on Mersey --- No Comment
Medicals --------------- Prefer a smaller League few fixtures round holiday period.
Northern -------------- At a meeting of the Review Group in Northumberland, representatives of Northern FC reported that League changes were
presented as a “fait accompli”. Emphasis was placed on regionalisation plans with little discussion about numbers in Leagues.
Additional :- It is imperative that the present structure we enjoy is preserved. The view held by some that gaps in a Clubs’ fixture list can be filled by
friendlies is a myth. Players will only commit to important games. The first indication of a friendly and they are unavailane. Spectators and Sponsors are
only interested in League or Cup Games.
Altrincham Kersal – No Comment
Chris Stewart Head Coach
Eagle ------------------ No Comment
Craig Harper Chairman
Manchester --------- The loss of two home games at 1 st XV level would result in a reduced income stream of between £4,000-£4,500. In the current
climate that would likely prove fatal for our Club within a short time. Add to that the lesser effect of losing 2 nd XV home games !!
We find the rationale for reduction to 12 teams difficult to understand. On the one hand the review talks about players welfare but then suggests that the
lost league games will be replaced by a round robin early round guaranteeing two home games. After that the successful teams move further in the
competitions – thereby for some teams the number of games per season will increase.
Manchester have not entered a Cup Competition for the past 3 seasons. Not because the first rounds have been in August, but because the coaches nor
the players see these games as relevant and not of any assistance to player development particularly given the disparity of teams. We have played friendlies
against other Clubs instead.
Andrew Bridgman Chairman
West Park St. Helens -------1) As a club, we wish the North West Intermediate Rugby Union Leagues, that our lower teams play in, to remain as 14 team leagues and are not reduced to 12 team leagues.
2) We are very disappointed with how Lancashire decided to handle the consultation process, Specifically:
a. Their decision to not poll the Lancashire clubs on the AGR proposals
b. Their decision to not mandate their two representatives on how to vote at the council meeting given their role is to represent the views of Lancashire clubs at the RFU
council.
The result of the above was both of Lancashire’s representatives voted in favour of the changes at the council meeting even though it was known a substantial number of clubs
did not wish to move to 12 team leagues.
3) We are disappointed with the way the RFU allowed the AGR panel to set the parameters and timetable for approval of their proposals in what looked to have been an attempt to
limit consultation and objections to their proposals.
Specifically:
a. Misrepresenting the basis the proposals were to be viewed, originally indicating the recommendations were to be voted on as a complete package rather than allowing
each proposal to be discussed separately, Eventually, the council voted on each proposal even though all consultation had been dominated by the controversial
reduction to the size of leagues.
b. Allowing the AGR to publish their proposals so late, originally one week before approval was to be sought from the RFU council (which the council ultimately delayed by
one month when it became apparent the proposals were not popular).
c. Allowing a substantial change to be made to the proposals in the last week of the consultation, allowing the clubs no opportunity to debate the modified proposals.
After two years of supposedly obtaining the views and evidence to justify such changes, it felt, the clubs and the players, who supposedly the changes were at
the behest of, were given a month during the off season to be told what the changes would be. It never felt like there was any opportunity to obtain a
consensus as at the meetings about it we were constantly told the rest of the country wanted these changes so it didn’t matter what the north thought.
4) We are concerned that having only 22 league games in a 35 week season leaves too many blank weekends. If Lancashire continue with their cup competitions and the promised
National cup competitions materialise the majority of clubs will still only have 3 more games leaving 10 blank weekends. Whilst accepting the reorganisation has been delayed by
a year there has been little leadership from the county regarding how the clubs might fill the blanks in the season. If as has been suggested we could play friendly games the
question has to be asked as too why reduce the size of the leagues if the reduced no of games is just replaced with an equivalent no of games.
5) We do not understand how having less games available for people to play in can possibly improve the key participation figures that are the basis of the grants the RFU obtain to
support the community game from Sport England which can only harm the investment levels available to the community based clubs.
6) We are extremely concerned that Lancashire have interpreted the problems of travel faced by the Lancashire clubs incorrectly and are attempting to alter the league structure
proposed by the AGR.
Under the old league structure Lancashire clubs at Level 7 are split into two leagues, one shared with the Cheshire clubs and one shared with the Cumbria
clubs at that level. Lancashire made a request to the RFU to allow Lancashire clubs to Withdraw from this North Lancashire / Cumbria League due to the
excessive travel involved. Whilst surveying all Lancashire clubs on the issue, the question asked established the problem was the time spent travelling to
games. What hasn’t happened is any opportunity to either discuss the solution Lancashire have proposed or for clubs views to obtained.
Not all clubs at level 7 wished to have their chances of promotion up the leagues blocked / reduced, indeed the Level 7 Lancashire clubs involved in the North
Lancashire / Cumbria leagues where given the opportunity to discuss the proposed solution the other Level 7 Lancashire clubs it would affect have had no
opportunity to express their opinions
Lancashire’s solution is too withdraw the Lancashire clubs from the North Lancashire / Cumbria league at level 7, effectively making all the Lancashire and
Cheshire clubs share one league, effectively relegating 7 clubs from this level. The effect of this would be reducing the potential promotion spots to
Lancashire clubs to 2 from the current 3. The RFU blocked such a move until the results of the AGR were published and then opted out of the problem by
putting in their AGR proposals that a local solution should be defined for structural problems at level 7 downwards.
Additionally, although clubs at level 8 & 9 answered that travel was a problem for them, Lancashire have proposed no solution to help them. Their worst of
the problems at this level having been created by arbitrarily moving clubs from the South Lancashire / Cheshire leagues to what was the equivalent northern
leagues but with the withdrawal into a Cumbrian league of the level 8 & 9 clubs have become Lancashire leagues. The result being clubs from the Cheshire
borders playing in the Lancashire league with clubs further north than them playing in the joint Lancashire Cheshire league.
If the current proposals, as put forward at the last Lancashire consultation meeting, are to be believed, Lancashire are requesting that this block and
subsequent relegation of some of their clubs now be put on clubs playing at level 6 of the new structure. This does not solve the travel time problems the
geographical spread of clubs in Lancashire causes.
The clubs at the lower levels never used to travel around Lancashire for their games that they are currently being told they must do. They played locally,
usually within a radius of half an hour travelling from their club. Rather than looking to correct the problem the clubs at the bottom levels face, little if
anything is being discussed with the ‘Lancashire’ Leagues solution being the only option being put forward despite its obvious flaws.
West Park St. Helens RUFC
Glossop -------The Club would suffer financially if we were to reduce the overall number of home games by 6 over 3 teams.
Paul Whiston Treasurer
Windermere RUFC -----Not again. Leave us alone please. No wonder we as a County do not get club members to go on to be CB committee members – this just creates apathy
towards the establishment.
Nigel Rimmer Secretary
Oldham RUFC ----------We have always been of the opinion that Lancs. Clubs should be in a competition of their own ( same as the Cumbria Clubs). Club not consulted by the
Committee we contacted them !!
Stephen Ingham Chairman of Selectors
Egremont ----------------Fixtures for Level 7 should be more localised. We were invited to attend a poorly attended meeting (3 players) The players did not necessarily present the
Clubs views and did not have a mandate
Jeff Edgar County Rep.
Ormskirk ----------------Our preference is 14. No contact from the Adult Review Committee just the NAG Group.
Mark Bailie Director of Rugby
Leigh ---------------------We made a comprehensive response to the Review Group. Our then 1st XV Manager compiled a comprehensive report and consulted the senior players.
Initially we wished to retain 14team league structure, following numerous meetings and reading the review report we accepted the changes and felt because of
the quality and comprehensive nature of the report it would be difficult to oppose it. The inclusion 0f a comprehensive cup competition swung us in favour of
the reduction in league teams.
Mike Hampson Honorary Secretary
Colne & Nelson ------------- No comment
Keith Thornton Hon Sec.
Workington RUFC ------ Club consulted in a way. Our Captain (at the time) attended a meeting called by Cumbria RFU
Michael Heaslip Secretary
Cockermouth ------------- The proposed move to 12 club leagues is neither helpful to the promotion of the game at Jumior Level, nor, good for the revenues
of the Clubs, many of which survive on matchday receipts !! Please don’t tinker, just for the sake of it.
Brian Mitchelhill Secretary/ Referees Contact
Sunderland -------------- Major Loss of Revenue if Leaguers reduced !!
Paul Geehan Chairman
Durham City ----------- Meaningless Cup games generate no interest whatsoever !!
Tony Howe County Rep. and Media.
Consett ------------------ No Comment
David Herdman Chairman
Guisborough ---------- Guisborough would take a big hit regarding revenue with gate monies, sponsorship and bar receipts all being affected which will in
turn affect the game’s development at the Club.
John MacKay Secretary
Moresby ----------- No Comment
Stephen Kellett Fix. Sec.
Whitley Bay Rockliff RFC. ----- Must record disappointment in RFU failing to adequately consult with it’s members regarding the changes.
David Bennett Fixture Secretary
Warrington ----------- I personallywould prefer a move to 12 teams for reasons I am happy to share, however the rugby committee have asked me to answer
in favour of 14. We were consulted but it’s had tio see where this reported/captured.
Richard Woodward Chairman
Eccles -----------------Only consulted at a meeting at PGH Club (4 days before decision was made) it appeared to be a done deal. We think the Review reflects
views of 2nd XVS and lower but we think from Level 7 possibly 8 first teams want regular competitive games and will travel if it is done fairly i.e. not like
Lancs./Cumbria League at the present time. Cumbria teams should be split between the two North West level 7 leagues at present.
Paul Thorpe Secretary
De La Salle. ------Only consulted at a Meeting at Preston Grasshoppers.
Stephen Parrott Fixture Secretary
Ilkley -------------- Ilkley’s Committee are happy with the present 14 team leage structure. It generates a lot of interest locally and regionally and we accept it
may mean more travelling than in a 12 team league. However it is the price to pay to be able to play against stronger opposition.
Andrew Munro Chairman of Rugby
Rochdale --------- No Comment
Tim Taylor Secretary
Garstang -------- Players want to stay at 14 or move to 14 To stay the same if we finish where we did last year we will be relegated !! which will have a bad
effect on player retyention at a time when we are struggling for players. The 2nd XV had to concede a game due to a lack of players. We could end up the
same as Carnforth who have left the National Leagues.
Frank Purkis Secretary
Tarleton -------- The Leagues work fine we don’t see the need for change !!!!
Steve Bradley Manager
Bolton ----------- We believe the RFU will push this through as they already appear to have done, regardless of the Clubs affected.
Les Towler Captain and All of Bolton
Littleborough ------ Going to 12 is a silly idea. Ideally for our Club to survive we need at least 15 home games per season.
Brian Hurst Club President
Old Bedians ------- 1st XV Captain thinks 12 games – as any more than that (and Cup Games) can leave us short and using 2nd XV players that are not ready.
Especially tound Christmas and the start of the season.
2nd team Captain prefers 12 team as he has difficulty chasing players (especially fringe players) and this takes the pressure off him every week and increases
commitment.
For our first team I think 12 is fine. The standards are higher and we get more player commitment as consistency in selection as they know what weekends are
games and when they are free ( to see wives etc,) Also it gives players more time to recoup from injuries.
For the 2nd XV we have found a 12 team league easier to compete in. It gives anyone who wants to play a chance and gives our small Club a break in terms of
selectionwhen may only have one game a week as it eases selection issues.
12 team Leagues also gives us flexibility in terms of arranging a development 3rd XV and if there are any fixture cancellations.
Steven Cooke Chairman
Millom --------- We feel in a general consensus that 14 team Leagues with the weather experienced in Cumbria affects the possibility to get games in. With a
limited catchment area for players and other sports which our youth in the area are involved 12 seems to be ideal.
Bill Dowbiggin Senior member of the Club for years.
Pendle ---------- We would like to move to 12/14. We are happy with the way the Leagues are being run and although we would like more teams in our
League (12/14 rather than 10) we feel there is no need for change at this time.
Keith Waddington Chairman
Crosby St. Marys ------- We understand why many Clubs would prefer to stay at or move to 14 clubs in their League. In our case our financial position is
not so dependent on playing more games. We are struggling to field 2 teams each week, so to be honest fewer games are better.
Neil Adshead Secretary
Ashton U Lyne --------At present too many free Saturdays. The Club is suffering financially due to lost revenue.
Kath Carr Secretary
Wigton --------
When things are running well why change them
Dava Halliday Fixture Secretaary
North Manchester ----- Currently we are in a 13 team League and wouldn’t choose to reduce our numbers of games revenue is vital. Cup games again are
obviously important to the structure of a full rugby season and therefore North M. are happy with the organisation we are under.
Ian Thompson Chairman
Winlaton Vulcans ------ Broadly support maintaining teams in League at 14 and maintaining a viable County Cup Competition. Being a totally amateur
Club we must not ignore the social side of the Club both on and off the field. Rugby is and always has been a game for all shapes and sizes, with teams
playing at different levels so that players of all ages, levels of fitness and skill are not squeezed out of the game and away from their local clubs. If this
happens clubs will lose the volunteers who are usually retired players and the major source of income that goes with them.
Richard Jones Secretary
Bishop Aukland ------- We rely on League games for our finance. Cup games simply mean that at some stage there will be gaps on the list which will affect
our finances.
Keith Wilkinson Chairman
St.Edwards O.B. ----- We have no objections to the Adult Review proposals as indicated. Continuing at our current league size fits our purposes with our
circumstances, As a club we hire our facilities and do not own a bar, This means that the question of match day revenue is not an issue. Our continued
existence as a Club is not dependent on match day revenue it is dependent on player availability. This means that as a Club we welcome any proposals that
suggest leagues will become more localised and not involve more league games. With our limited pool of players shifting from 20/22 games a season to one
of 26 is too big a step to contemplate as it would likely compromise any hope of being competitive.
David Moran Chairman
Burnley --------------- We originally thought 12 would be a more manageable league but a lack of progress in the cup and going down to 11 sides has meant
that we have too many free weekends. 10 home games isn’t enough to generate income from the clubhouse point of view. Too many weeks off gives players
the opportunity to do other things on a Saturday afternoon.
Steve Jackson Secretary
Whitby ------------ From the coach “ I like the 12 team structure as for smaller Clubs it gives us a breather especially when we play teams who have far more
players than us. Because a lot of Clubs run 2/3 teams they have no problem fielding teams week on week whereas every injury is a bit of a major impact.” Just
thoughts on a playing perspective.
I don’t like the idea of playing in Yorkshire Leagues and I think we need to do all we can to stay in Durham/Northumberland structure and wish this
information to be forwarded to the appropriate person.
Emma Garbutt Secretary
Jarrovians ------- Lack of players in Club and more games could mean more injuries and difficulties in turning a side out.
Andy Burns President
Newton Aycliffe ----- Small Club with only limited players available
Stuart McIvor Secretary
Prudhoe and Stocksfield --- We at our Club suffer with player availability and extra fixtures would cause us problems. We also share with cricket and less
games allows us to plan for ground availability in September. Our understanding from an executive member is that there will be still two home Cup games.
Peter Jones Secretary
Richmondshire -------- The main point of discussion is finance and obviously more games will produce more finance through bar takings etc. etc.
Alison Down Secretary
Sedgefield -------------- Struggling with player numbers and more games may see more injuries and a failure to fulfil fixtures.
Terry Robinson Chairman
Acklam ----- As a club we agree with the regionalisation of the Leagues but want to stay at 14 Clubs in each League.
Mark Collins Chairman