Northumberland RFU - News

Writing about rugby at a time when the Covid-19 pandemic is still at its peak in the UK and close to home the tally of reported cases in Northumberland exceeds 800 might seem frivolous and perhaps even inappropriate. But that would not recognise the role our clubs play across the county serving their local communities, providing a living for players, coaches and support staff in the professional game and countless other hospitality full and part-time personnel serving our 20 or so amateur clubs, not to mention those employed in schools, colleges, universities and the RFU working in rugby. Stories abound locally of the numerous activities and gestures large and small made by players and club members seeking to help those most at risk and to offer help where they can to NHS and other essential service personnel.                What will become of our clubs and the shape of rugby union in the County after this tumultuous 140th year of its existence is impossible to predict. For its part, the Northumberland Rugby Union and the RFU have between them made cash payments to our clubs of almost £94,000 since the lockdown began in March. Additionally, there have been pre-existing loan repayment holidays for four clubs making a total value of financial support £106,258 (cash & deferred payments) all disbursed at very short notice. Advice and support from experienced fund raisers on the board of directors is readily available and a further emergency fund of £5,000 has been ring-fenced for future club emergencies. This, together with any donations received will form the basis of a hardship fund available to help save some of our clubs at very real risk of not surviving this crisis.  Read More in the Newsletter....