What are your proposals for our adult male community game going forward? Please take the survey
Over the past few months a Bristol & District Combination (B&DRFC) Working Group, comprising vastly experienced rugby volunteers from B&DRFC member clubs, was assembled and has worked hard discussing the challenges faced particularly in the adult male community game, and then working with a B&DRFC appointed professional survey consultant to develop an appropriate and meaningful survey.
The appointed consultant will then professionally analyse and convert all data received into a full report for the Working Group and B&DRFC within a couple of weeks of the on-line survey window closing date. That data, in turn, will become the basis for a Working Group paper to be developed and submitted to the RFU via the 2 x local (Somerset & Gloucestershire) CB's Council Representatives, with appropriate recommendations and proposals for our adult male community game going forward,.
Please find below the link to that on-line survey.
Scroll down through the multi-page survey as directed at the bottom of each page.
The survey window is open with immediate effect and will remain open until the close of Friday 6th December 2024.
Please distribute this link especially to all your club’s adult male players, but ideally to ALL member adult players, administrators, DoR’s, coaches, spectators for them to submit this on-line survey.
Please be assured that submissions will all be done anonymously to ensure participant’s data protection.
This is a once only opportunity for participants in our game to have data backed messages conveyed to the RFU/CB's, so that changes can be considered for the benefit of community male rugby in particular, that by anybody's yardstick is massively struggling.
Yours in Rugby.
Tony Swash, Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Combination
The passing of Whitehall and Bristol legend Daryl Hickey
The Whitehall RFC family is shocked and saddened to hear that former player, coach, and club legend Daryl Hickey passed away suddenly after a short illness.
Daryl had a fantastic career, playing for Whitehall and representing Bristol RFC before he returned to Whitehall to bolster our pack in his later years.
Daryl rolled up at Whitehall RFC, initially to enjoy the social side of the club. He was persuaded to turn out for the club’s 5th XV on the wing, but he worked his way up to the first team as a prop. In September 1980, he was in the Whitehall side, along with future Bristol star Ralph Knibbs, in a game at the Memorial Ground against Bristol Combination, celebrating the club’s 50th Anniversary.
Daryl was a regular member of the Whitehall front row when he was called up as a late replacement for his Bristol United debut in the match at Crumlin in November 1982. He played 17 United games in total during the season, scoring two tries, and he made his first team debut in the penultimate fixture of the 1982-83 campaign.
Bristol had reached the 1983 John Player Cup final, and they rested the entire first team for their away game at Coventry. Prop Chris Folland was at a wedding, and Daryl made his debut as a consequence. Happily, his fellow prop was Mark Tomlin, another product of Whitehall. After this, Daryl was a late call-up for Bristol’s tour to Zimbabwe at the end of the season.
Daryl was awarded his Bristol blazer at the end of the 1989-90 season, and in 1991-92 he was seen more frequently, playing 20 first-team games and scoring three tries. He made his final first-team appearance against Moseley in December 1994.
He played 143 first-team games for Bristol, scoring 11 tries. In addition, he played 152 matches for Bristol United, crossing the line 15 times and appearing once for Bristol A in the 1991-92 season.
Everyone will miss him. The Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination offer their sincere condolences.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
RIP Daryl.
All are welcome to Daryl’s funeral, which will be held at 12:30 pm. on Monday, December 2, 2024, at St. Augustine’s RC Church in Downend.
The service will be followed by committal and interment at Memorial Woodlands at 2 pm (Family and close friends only)
Everyone is welcome to the Wake at the Kendleshire Golf Club from 2:00 pm
(Bristol RFC information courtesy of Mark Hoskins)
November 16, 2024
The passing of Ashley Down Old Boys’ Jon Coole
Jon ‘Cooley’ Coole
Ashley Down Old Boys were saddened by the recent loss of their beloved “Cooley”.
Jon was a lovely man and a very good Wing-Forward who joined Ashley Down in the early seventies.
Jon played around 600 games for us and received a life membership in 2014.
Up until very recently, he watched us play EVERY Saturday and he was loved by all and known for his words of encouragement and his infectious smile.
Jon’s funeral service is this Friday, October 11, 2024, at St Margaret’s Church, Hinton Blewett, BS39 5AN at 12 noon.
Afterwards, there will be a wake at the ADOB RFC clubhouse in Lockleaze.
The family have asked for no flowers but any donations to Cancer Research would be very welcome indeed.
Jon had many friends in rugby and throughout the Bristol Combination and all of them are very welcome to attend and celebrate the life of this lovely man. Our thoughts and love are with Christine, Tom , Louise and all the family at this sad time
R.I.P Cooley
The Bristol Rugby Referee's Society (BRRS) Charity
Steve Leyshon sets himself a challenge
The BRRS Charity was created in during the 2018/9 season following Steve Leyshon's charity climb of Kilimanjaro. Since then it has been able to support a variety of financial awards to a range of good causes in the local Bristol Combination rugby family. For example, awards have recently been made to injured players, life saving equipment and support in bereavements.
To further raise awareness of the BRRS charity ...
- In his second year as President, ex-Premiership referee Steve Leyshon has set himself a challenge of refereeing all Combination clubs (or as many as possible!) in the 2024/25 season.
- In return, we ask that each club make a small donation to the Charity, say £50 but whatever you wish to contribute. It is, of course, voluntary and there is absolutely no obligation - and it is outside of normal match fees.
- The contributing club (as well as getting Steve as referee!) will be presented with a commemorative pennant with the BRRS logo and acknowledgement of being a supporter of the BRRS Charity to proudly display in their clubhouse-
BRRS Charity
Mission statement: A charity run by passionate rugby people from Bristol in support of passionate rugby people from Bristol who are in need of financial support.
The charity’s purpose and how it will achieve this purpose: For the public benefit, the relief and assistance of those associated with amateur rugby in Bristol in need of financial support, by reason of injury, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage, by making financial grants.
Remembrance Day Service 2024
As you will all know and probably seen on local BBC television each year, we have a truly fantastic attendance of Bristol & District Combination member clubs attending and laying a wreath during the service that is coordinated by Bristol Rugby Club Former Players at The Memorial Gates, The Memorial Stadium, Filton Avenue, Bristol BS7 0BF.
This year's service will take place starting at 10.55 am on
Friday November 8th at The Memorial Gates.
The Bristol Rovers FC clubhouse will be open for tea/coffee from 10 am, and the full bar will be open once the service finishes. Hopefully, this year's clubs' / organisations' attendance will be even greater in number than last year's.....
I will again be coordinating club wreath orders this year, and (with the not insignificant help of my wife) will ensure that all wreaths ordered will be decorated with ribbons in respective club / organisation colours and with a large label printed with the respective club's / organisation's name.
If your CLUB / ORGANISATION wishes to order a wreath through Bristol & District Combination (I will bring them all with me and hand out in the clubhouse to arriving club representatives between 10.15am - 10-45am on the day),
PLEASE EMAIL tonyswash@hotmail.com YOUR ORDER TO ME BY CLOSE OF SUNDAY 13th OCTOBER.
I will place the whole order immediately thereafter with THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, and there will not be no later orders placed.
The standard wreath that is typically ordered for clubs will cost £23.00 inclusive of ribbons / labels, and the slightly higher specification wreath typically ordered for organisations will cost £28.00 inclusive of ribbons / labels, and each club / organisation will be invoiced by Bristol & District Combination some days after the service.
I sincerely hope to be inundated with club / organisation wreath orders soon!!
Any club / organisation purchasing its' own wreath, please email me to that effect, so that your club / organisation is included on the alphabetical list that will be called forward by Bristol Former Players to lay its' wreath during the service.
Kind Regards.
Tony Swash
Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination
Bristol Combination Fixture Exchange
This Fixture Exchange Facebook group for the Bristol & District Combination Rugby Clubs to arrange match fixture exchanges.
This group is only open to club fixture secretaries.
When submitting a posting please remember to state the date of the possible match - (not just next Saturday), home or away, the level of your team and a contact name and number.
The Butcombe Bristol Combination Vase and Bowl Competition
The draw for the Combination Vase and Bowl Competition can be found HERE
The draw for the Cup is to be made next week.
To All Club Secretaries
Are the details concerning your Club correct on this website?
Please check
HERE for Clubs A to C
HERE for Clubs D to N
HERE for Clubs O to Z
Any changes should be sent to -
webmaster@bristolrugbycombination.co.uk
Thanks to those Clubs who have already forwarded their changes.
JustGiving page launched after Weston-super-Mare’s new Kiwi player is assaulted.
Kiwi Ashton Booth has recently come to the UK with the aim of playing rugby for Weston-super-Mare RFC for the coming season.
On Saturday he had a fantastic debut during a trial game away at Marlborough. He fitted in perfectly with the other players and environment and painted himself in a fantastic light.
That evening after a coach journey back, he and another player, were in the Weston town centre for some food after a few celebratory drinks.
At this time they were set upon by six other men, beaten down to the floor and then continually kicked and punched.
This has resulted in Ashton being between hospitals ever since and currently awaiting an operation on his jaw which was broken and dental work as many teeth were knocked out. He’s in a pretty bad way, unfortunately.
His recovery will be long and it’s a terrible thing to happen to anyone, let alone someone halfway around the world away from his usual friends and family.
We want the local community to show him that this isn’t what Weston is like and to rally around him and provide him with an income to support himself while he is recovering.
Even just to allow him to enjoy himself a little more in light of a terrible opening time in the UK.
Thanks for taking the time to visit the JustGiving page.
To All Club Secretaries
Are the details concerning your Club correct on this website?
Please check
HERE for Clubs A to C
HERE for Clubs D to N
HERE for Clubs O to Z
Any changes should be sent to -
webmaster@bristolrugbycombination.co.uk
Thanks to those Clubs who have already forwarded their changes.
Bristol & District Combination Cup Competitions - Season 2024/25
Entries for the 2024/25 Bristol & District Combination Cup Competitions are now open.
Please see the Men’s Cup Competitions page HERE
Clubs should complete the form whether or not they wish to enter the competition.
Completed forms have to be returned to: ian92116@gmail.com before 23:59 on Sunday, 1st September 2024
Walking Rugby for all ages and abilities
This initiative is being run by North Bristol RFC, with some help from South Gloucestershire Council.
.
This isn't a recruitment drive or remotely attempting to take people away from their existing clubs.
indeed, NBRFC would be happy to signpost to other clubs' walking rugby sessions......
The aim is to offer fitness sessions held during the day, and an attempt to get more people active.
Please see the poster for further details
Adult Player Registration - NOW LIVE
From the 2024/25 season, all players, in all formats of the game (including non-contact from April 2025), will be required to register themselves annually to play rugby within RFU member clubs.
Adult Player Registration went live on 16 July 2024.
From this date, adult players will be able to log into the Game Management System (GMS) to register themselves to play.
If your players are currently registered to play, they will already have a GMS account. You can help them verify their email address before they register to play to make it easier for them to do this next season. Support for players that do not have GMS accounts can be found in the next section of this update.
Further support with Adult Player Registration can be found on Community Rugby Help.
The passing of former Combination President Sandy Mitchell BEM
It is with great sadness that we have to report that former Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination President N A (Sandy) Mitchell BEM passed away this morning (Ju/ne 28, 2024) after his long battle with illness.
It goes without saying what a huge loss this is to Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination, the Lockleaze Sports Centre, and the local rugby fraternity. Sandy will be very sorely missed by many.
Sandy was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 2024 New Year’s Honours list.
The citation reads:
British Empire Medal
Norman Alexander Mitchell. Chair of Trustees, Lockleaze Sports Centre.
For services to Sport in Bristol.
Sandy gave decades of service to Bristol & District Combination and Gloucestershire RFU and, of course, has been central in recent years to the development and success of Lockleaze Sports Centre.
He graduated with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Bristol in 1962 and was subsequently awarded an MSc in Aeronautical Engineering.
For many years, Sandy was a Design Engineer at Rolls-Royce in Bristol.
He then joined the University’s Department of Aerospace Engineering. Mr Mitchell retired from the University in 2006 but continued to lecture and conduct project work.
Sandy has been a Clifton club member for many years and was appointed as a trustee of the club’s debenture scheme. On its conclusion, he was given the honour of becoming a Vice President as recognition of his diligence and work.
Our thoughts go out to Sandy's wife, Pat, to their three children, and to all of Sandy's family and friends of the great man at this very sad time.
Tony Swash
Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination
June 28, 2024
Old Bristolians Past President Jim Berry Passes Away
It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of Old Bristolians club stalwart and past president Jim Berry.
Jim a hard nosed prop forward whose previous clubs included Horfield Athletic, Keynsham & Bath joined OBs in their pomp in the early 1970s.
He was part of the great OBs side that did the double of merit table and Combination Cup in 1974. He then went on to play in the 1st XV until the early 1980's aged 50 before captaining a very successful and notorious 3rd/vets Xv with a number of ex Bristol players running out each Saturday. He played his last game on tour in Prague aged 65, but as we all know 'What goes on tour .....".
The funeral arrangements are as follows:
Service: Wednesday 5th June 2024, 12pm, South Bristol Crematorium, Bridgwater Road, Bristol, BS13 7AS
Afterwards, the celebration of Jim's life will continue at Old Bristolians Sports Club, Longwood Lane, Failand, Bristol BS8 3TQ
Fuller details can be viewed via the following web-link: https://www.dignityfunerals.co.uk/funeral-notices/13-05-2024-james-alfred-berry/
For now we give thanks for a life well lived and send our best to Maggie, Rich and the family.
RIP Jim
May 22, 2024
Chew Valley retain the Butcombe Bristol Combination Cup
Chew Valley retained the Butcombe Bristol & District Combination Cup with a 65-nil victory over Barton Hill in the final played at Clifton RFC on Thursday, May 9, 2024.
Chew had built-up a commanding 43-nil half-time lead after three tries wing Joe Webb, a brace for outside centre Joe Cowell plus one each for inside centre Lewis Thomas and lock Luke Sparkes Brown with full back Tom Bryan landing four conversions.
Late in the half, Barton Hill had a player sent off with a Chew player sent for ten minutes in the sin-bin. Chew emptied their bench at the break and agreed to Barts replacing the carded player so back up to 15 a-side.
Replacement flanker Alex Monk crossed for the first try after the restart, a second for Thomas, and two touchdown for wing Harry Stride with a conversion from prop Reg Parfitt completing the scoring.
A second-half altercation saw another Barts player sent off and a Chew player yellow carded.
It has been a difficult season for Barts but in the words of the late former Bristol, England and British & Irish Lion hooker John Pullin, they can rightly say - ‘At least we turned-up’
Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination v Bristol Bears
Fourteen clubs are represented in the Bristol & District Combination squad to face Bristol Bears at Clifton RFC on Friday, May 3, 2024, kick-off: 7.30 pm, admission £5.
Scrum-half Sam Wolstenholme headlines the youthful Bristol Bears XV team partnering England U20 fly-half Sam Worsley. Harry Ascherl lines up in midfield alongside England U20 centre Joe Jenkins while Harry Rowson starts in an electrifying back three with Deago Bailey and Aidan Boshoff.
Highly rated Argentina U20 international Benjamin Grondona starts at No.8 alongside exciting young duo Kofi Cripps and Aaron Tull in a dynamic back row. The pack is completed by Sam Grahamslaw, Will Capon and Jimmy Halliwell in the front row, with Paddy Pearce and Joe Owen taking their place in the engine room at second row.
Bristol Bears Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “The combination clubs are a vital part of our rugby community, so it was great to bring this fixture back into our rugby calendar last season for the first time in many years.
“This season I’m sure will be another great evening where we have an opportunity to play a lot of young exciting talent coming through especially local players who have represented our Combination clubs.”
Bristol & District Combination squad: back three: Tom Bennett (North Bristol), TJ Hodgson (St Brendans), Ryan Goodman (Southmead), Noah Holmes-McAdam, Jack Thomas (both Gordano); centres: Marcus Brooker (Dings Crusaders), Kris Richards (Clifton), Jon Armstrong (Barton Hill), Devon White (Southmead), Billy Cantin (North Bristol); fly-half: Stuart Heal (Chew Valley); scrum half: Archie Stapleton, Mac Hill (both Dings Crusaders); props: Dean Brooker (Chew Valley), Harry O’Donnel (Old Redcliffians), Hugo Aniksztejn (BAC), Josh Lloyd (Dings Crusaders), Tom Price (Avonmouth OB); hooker: Billy Heal (Aretians); locks: Dylan Goodman (North Bristol), Nick Yiasoumi (Barton Hill), Shay Sainsbury (Clifton); back row: Charlie Ashcroft (Cotham Park), Chris McCann (Clifton), Jay Burley (Bristol Saracens), Jay Evans (Clifton), Toby Popple (Southmead).
Bristol Bears XV: Harry Rowson; Deago Bailey, Joe Jenkins, Harry Ascherl, Aidan Boshoff; Sam Worsley, Sam Wolstenholme; Sam Grahamslaw, Will Capon, Jimmy Halliwell, Paddy Pearce, Joe Owen, Aaron Tull, Kofi Cripps, Benjamin Grondona. Reps: Louie Trevett, Fred Davies, Andrew Turner, Peter Paramore, Gabriel Mann, Oscar Lennon, Gethin O’Callaghan, Henry Smeed, Ben Murray.
Bristol & District Combination Rugby Football Club’s first-ever women’s tournament.
Last Sunday (April 21, 2024) saw four teams fight for Cup and Plate places at the Finals Day on May 11, 2024.
The sun was shining and the rugby was strong from all competing teams.
Spirits were high as the squads competed in 30 minute games with some scorelines being worthy of 80 minute games.
Chew Valley Ladies v Winscombe Ladies kicked off the first game of the Inagural tournament and set the standards for the day closing with Winscombe v Avonmouth.
The rankings from the tournament has defined the finals as being Chew Valley v Winscombe in the Cup and Thornbury v Avonmouth in the Plate.
Big thank you to all the teams that competed and to the volunteers who supported the Combination to bring this competition to life.
April 23, 2024
Invitation to play in Sunday’s Women’s Competition
Following some withdrawals from the B&DRFC Women's Competition on Sunday afternoon (April 21, 2024) at Lockleaze Sports Centre, I would like to invite any clubs to submit a combined / Baabaa's team should they so wish.
This is within the Women's Competition regulations, therefore if there are players who want / can play, but unable to go out as their own club, they are encouraged to link up with others.
Thank you in advance.
Francesca Golton
Women's Rugby Coordinator
Bristol & District Combination
07969 212 030
April 17, 2024
Important Note from Bristol Referees Society
The Bristol Referees Society is currently making appointments for the 13th of April. As I am sure you are aware, a number of teams have entered both the Papa Johns Cup and the Combination Cups.
In order to ensure we have sufficient referees to cover all games, including some carried-over league games, could you please advise me (saturdayappointments.brrs@gmail.com) as soon as possible of your club's intentions to enter just one or both competitions?
April 3, 2024
Men’s RFU League Structure 2023/24 – League Deadline, Unplayed Fixtures & Papa Johns Mens Community Cups
Adverse weather conditions during the winter months have left some teams with games to play that may take them beyond the scheduled en-of- season date of the 6th April.
The RFU Adult Competitions Management Committee, in conjunction with organising committees for the Mens RFU Leagues, met earlier this week to agree a process for managing the situation.
With the Men’s Papa Johns Community Cup starting after the league season the Committee are focussed on causing minimal impact for clubs competing in the Cup, whilst also trying not to negatively impact completion of the league season.
The following conditions will be applied for the remainder of the season:
- Teams not competing in the Men’s Papa Johns Community Cup are able to play league matches after the league completion date of the 6th April. Your organising committee will schedule matches accordingly, which will appear in your fixture list on the RFU website.
- Teams will be given the opportunity to play on Easter Weekend, which was previously a break weekend in the season. If the fixture is not played on this weekend organising committees reserve the right to allow fixtures to be played after the 6th April. If this isn’t possible any outstanding fixtures will be determined by an approved methodology.
- If a team withdraws from the Papa Johns Community Cup, they can play league fixtures that may affect promotion/relegation after the deadline.
Understandably, these conditions will not suit all teams, but after exploring the potential the options, the Committee believe this is the most equitable process to conclude the season.
Terry Burwell – Chair of RFU Adult Competition Management Sub-Committee (ACMSC)
Paul O’Leary – RFU National Competitions Manager
March 11, 2024
Bath Combination XV 8 Bristol Combination XV 12
A controversial red card after SEVEN minutes, saw the Bristol Combo down to 14.
A huge shift from everyone saw a 12-8 win against all the odds in a match played at Walcot Old Boys RFC.
An incredible effort by the Bristol Combo squad.
March 6, 2024
Bristol Referee Adrian Johnstone takes charge of his 1500th game
BRRS’ Adrian Johnstone took charge of his 1500th fixture at the Counties 3 Gloucestershire South game between Bishopston and Lydney 2ndXV at Bonnington Walk Lockleaze, Bristol.
An absolute stalwart of the Society, Adrian is a true servant to rugby in Bristol and this outstanding achievement is testament to his many years of voluntary service.
Adrian was ‘helped’ at the game by his two Touch Judges, BRRS President Steve Leyshon and Chair Andy Weymouth.
There was a good crowd to watch Lydney 2ndXV win 27-7.
Adrian is also the BRRS Treasurer and Midweek Appointments Secretary.
Adrian was interviewed live on Radio Bristol's 'The Scrum' programme on Tuesday evening, and you can listen to the interview via the following link and scroll through the programme to 36 mins. 15 seconds to pick up the start of Adrian's interview.
Link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0h94pvt
Main photo courtesy of John White Media
Bristol Aeroplane Co. RFC is looking for a new Head Coach for next season.
Following the announcement that stalwart Coaches Tony Hall and Dai Nicholas will retire at the end of the 23/24 season, BAC RFC have the exciting role of Head Coach open for applications with an expenses remuneration package available.
If you are looking for a new opportunity with a friendly, vibrant rugby team with a strong social ethos this could be the role for you.
The role will include
To be responsible for training the team in preparation for matches, acting as a highly influential figure in players’ lives. This is an exciting, rewarding and active way of staying in the game and lets you have a direct influence on player performance.
Key aspects of the role
1. Lead training sessions
Plan, deliver and review safe, engaging and effective training sessions; role model rugby’s values, and codes of conduct while developing individuals’ skill, confidence and fitness
2. Adopt a Player centred approach
Have a clear Coaching and Playing philosophy aligned to the wants and need of every player
3. Learning and Development
Work with the Club Coaching Coordinator to continue and facilitate personal learning and development
Is this role for you?
If you are enthusiastic, knowledgeable about the game and committed to fair play, confident, approachable and good with
people, you could hold a role that is highly respected in the community and allows you to act as a role model and inspiration to a group of young people.
Training takes place Tuesdays at 19.00 sharp at BAWA in Filton and matches are played on Saturday afternoons. Preseason and touch sessions take place during the summer months. Equipment and club kit are provided.
BAC RFC compete in the Counties 3 Tribute Gloucestershire South League
Interested parties should email their application to bacrfcsecretary@gmail.com no later than 31 March 2024
TRY FOR ELLIS Message from Old Redcliffians
Ellis Joseph is a former SGS College Student-athlete, Bristol Academy Player and current Somerset and Old Redcliffians 1st XV player.
Unfortunately, two weeks ago Ellis was diagnosed with acute leukemia and is in need of a bone marrow transplant to save his life.
We are launching a campaign called "TRYforEllis" as we need to encourage as many 16-30 year old males to test as possible, as Ellis is mixed race, those of similar heritage are particularly important.
We are opening a testing centre initially at Old Redcliffians on the 24th Feb. 11am but feel with the right promotion we could do far more and reach far more people.
‼️ Attention ‼️
To all 16-30 year old males, particularly the BAME community.
Ellis needs your help!
Ellis is in need of a donor match, for a life saving Bone Marrow Transplant after a diagnosis of Leukaemia.
Old Redcliffians RFC (Scotland Lane, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 5LU) are hosting a walk-in swab test centre from 11am on 24/02/24.
We encourage all males to test regardless of age. Mixed race males are of particular importance for this campaign given Ellis’ heritage.
A donor test is a simple cheek swab, no nasty needles.
To register your interest to join the register, please click the following link:
www.anthonynolan.org/TryforEllis
#TryForEllis #bonemarrow #bamecommunity #spreadtheword #rugby #sportscommunity
Women's Six Nations 2024.
The 23rd edition of the Women's Six Nations will take place between Saturday, March 23 2024 and Saturday April 27 2024.
England will look to make it six championship victories in a row following a 2023 Grand Slam campaign in which they beat France to the title.
The opening weekend will see France face Ireland (2.15pm) and Wales play Scotland (4.45pm) on Saturday March 23 before England travel to play Italy (3pm) on Sunday March 24.
The 2024 competition will also see Twickenham host a second-ever standalone England Women's Six Nations fixture as they take on Ireland in Round 4 on Saturday April 20 - England secured the Grand Slam at home to France at Twickenham last year in a history-maker.
Saturday March 23, 2024
France vs Ireland (2.15pm - all times GMT)
Wales vs Scotland (4.45pm)
Sunday March 24, 2024
Italy vs England (3pm)
Saturday March 30, 2024
Scotland vs France (2.15pm)
England vs Wales (4.45pm)
Sunday March 31, 2024
Ireland vs Italy (3pm)
Saturday April 13, 2024
Scotland vs England (2.15pm)
Ireland vs Wales (4.45pm)
Sunday April 14, 2024
France vs Italy (12.30pm)
Saturday April 20, 2024
England vs Ireland (2.15pm)
Italy vs Scotland (4.45pm)
Sunday April 21, 2024
Wales vs France (3.15pm)
Saturday April 27, 2024
Wales vs Italy (12.15pm)
Ireland vs Scotland (2.30pm)
France vs England (4.45pm)
January 29, 2024
2024 Autumn Nations Series.
England men will take on Japan at Twickenham Stadium on the weekend of 23rd November as the fourth and final fixture of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series.
Following on from home fixtures against the southern hemisphere trio of New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, the Brave Blossoms return to west London just over two years since their last outing where England won 52-13.
It is the fourth time Japan have played at Twickenham Stadium, however the last contest came in Pool D at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Nice, France. England came out on top in a 34-12 victory, the bonus point win helping Borthwick’s squad on their way to eventually finish as winners of their group.
Kick-off time, precise date and ticketing information will be confirmed in due course.
England men’s 2024
Autumn Nations Series fixtures:
Saturday 2 November - England v New Zealand
W/E 9 November - England v Australia
W/E 16 November - England v South Africa
W/E 23 November - England v Japan
January 25, 2024
Urgent message from RFU
The RFU has stated under no circumstances will the league programme be extended beyond Saturday 6th April, 2024
They have also decided that Saturday 10th February will be changed from a Break Saturday to a Reserve/NAW (next available weekend), meaning that any further postponements will be rearranged on the 10th Feb, followed by the two other NAW , 24TH Feb and 9th March
The Regional Organising Committee may also alter the sequence of rearranged games in accordance with our Admin Instruction 4(d) if…………
(i) it is apparent that an alternative sequence would conclude some or all
outstanding matches earlier than might otherwise occur or;
(ii) in their opinion, it is beneficial to the competition, e.g., to prioritise end-
of-season fixtures with a view to concluding promotion and relegation
issues including play-offs.
Let’s hope the weather is good to us.
January 17, 2024
Funeral Arrangements
Below are the Funeral Arrangements for some of the recent losses to Local Rugby
Ian Gibbon
BAC RFC & Bristol & District Combination
Thursday, January 18, 2024, 3.00 pm
Canford Crematorium
Afterwards at The BAWA Club, Southmead Road.
Ben Jordan
Clifton RFC, GRFU, Bristol & District Combination
Monday,January 29, 2024, 3.00 pm
Canford Crematorium
Afterwards at Clifton RFC.
Keith Baber
Bristol Referees Society
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 11.30 am
Westerleigh Crematorium
Afterwards at Cleve RFC.
Mike Delderfield
Ashley Down OB's RFC
Friday, February 2, 2024, 2.00 pm
Westerleigh Crematorium
Afterwards at Lockleaze Sports Centre
continuing to Ashley Down OB's RFC
RFU’s Touchline Newsletter
Community Game Update
Bristol & District Combination Inaugural Women’s Competition
We are delighted to announce Bristol & District Combination is launching the first ever Women’s competition. This is an exciting event set to pave the way for future competitions.
Bristol & District Rugby Football Junior Combination Cup & Plate
The draw for the 2023/24 Bristol & District Rugby Football Junior Combination Cup & Plate has now been made.
Former Bristol & District Combination Treasurer Brian Jordan
Ladies & Gents,
I am very sorry to advise that Brian 'Ben' Jordan passed away in the early hours of this morning (January 4, 2024) at his Cheswick Village care home, where he has been for almost three years.
His wife Linda was with him, and in conversation with her this afternoon, Linda has authorised my circulating this email.
Ben was a huge contributor to Bristol & District Combination, holding Hon. Treasurer and Lockleaze Ground Committee roles for many years.
Ben was also a past GRFU President, and for many years was Hon. Fixture Secretary at Clifton RFC.
It is of course far too early for funeral details to be known, but I will circulate those in due course, although they will probably not be finalised for some time yet.
Tony Swash
Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination
Photo: Brian ‘Ben’ Jordan accepting the Combination Cup in October 2018, on behalf of Clifton Rugby, from Combination Chair, Adrian Siddorn
Why not make getting into refereeing your New Year's resolution?
In 2024, Bristol Referees Society are pleased to be delivering an exciting offer to support local rugby players, coaches and fans take up the whistle through our 'Offer to Clubs'.
The Society are inviting Bristol Combination member clubs to host an event for 10 or more colleagues from their club or neighbouring clubs who are interested in taking up refereeing in some capacity. We will then provide the 3-hour, RFU accredited ‘Introduction to Refereeing’ course through our RFU educator/trainer, free of charge!
Successful candidates are then able to:
- Join the Society and access induction programmes, mentoring and support .
- Referee at L10 or below through the Society.
- Get passed on the field (when ready).
- Access further support including the Level 2 English Rugby Referee Award (ERRA).
BRRS Chairman, Andy Weymouth, and Training and Development Officer, Tony Bowers, recently delivered the first of these courses during a packed session at Bristol Telephones RFC (pictured). Over 20 current club members attended the session before Christmas, and we hope to see many of them officiating games locally in 2024!
Are you interested at arranging a similar session at your club? Get in touch to find out more!
The passing of BAC’s Ian Gibbon
We are deeply saddened to report the passing of BAC RFC’s club legend Ian Gibbon.
If you knew/met Ian you will be heartbroken. He battled on and off the pitch. He was a devoted member of BAC and also such a nice man, a true gentleman
Joined BAC 1967
Club Captain 1971
Club Chairman from 1987 - 2002
Honorary Life Member since 2002
423 appearances for BAC
BAC RFC’s President Clive Prewett wrote ''It is with sadness I have to report the our ex player and chairman Ian Gibbon passed away today at 5am. He was a great stalwart of the club but many of you would not really know him as his illness prevented him from supporting at the ground.''
He was also Bristol & District Combination's Hon. Match & Team Secretary from 1981 until 1992, and also served as Trustee of the Lockleaze Ground and was a member of the B&DRFC Management Committee.
Tributes to Ian have also been left on social media
Ian's Funeral will take place at Canford Crematorium on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 3pm and afterwards at The BAWA Club, Southmead Road.
R.I.P. Ian.
Bristol Combination President awarded BEM
Bristol & District Combination member club contacts via this email, that our President, N.A. (Sandy) Mitchell has been awarded the British Empire Medal in the New Years Honours list recently published.
The citation reads:
British Empire Medal
Norman Alexander Mitchell. Chair of Trustees, Lockleaze Sports Centre.
For services to Sport in Bristol.
Sandy has given decades of service to Bristol & District Combination and to Gloucestershire RFU, and of course has been absolutely central in recent years to the development and success of Lockleaze Sports Centre.
I am certain that you share our delight in this news and agree that it is richly deserved. CONGRATULATIONS SANDY!!
Yours Faithfully,
Tony Swash
Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination
Bristol Combination Cup, Vase and Bowl Draw
The draw for the 2023/24 Butcombe Combination Cup, Vase and Bowl has now been made.
The matches will be played at the end of the 2023/24 league campaign
Ashley Down OB's RFC's Mike Delderfield
I am so very sorry to advise you all that Ashley Down OB's RFC's great stalwart Mike Delderfield passed away earlier this morning after a relatively short illness.
Mike was a super player over many years, and loyally served his club over even more years, always at the fore of his club's affairs and development, and certainly setting the very highest standards for several generations of ADOB's membership to follow. Mike held various roles within the club, culminating in being club President for many recent years.
Our sincerest condolences go to Mike's wife Jan, and to all of their family, and of course to everybody at Ashley Down OB's RFC.
I was very lucky to be able to call Mike a personal friend, and will certainly miss him.
R.I.P. Mike.
Yours in rugby.
Tony Swash
Hon. Secretary, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination
Womens Combination Tournament
Dear Club Members!!!!
Further to recent social media announcements, I am delighted to confirm that the inaugural Women's Bristol & District Combination Tournament is scheduled to go ahead on Sunday 21st April 2024 at Lockleaze Sports Centre, with the Women's Cup & Plate Finals being played at the same venue on Saturday 11th May 2024!!
Please advise your Women's squads so that any rearranged games / tours etc are not scheduled on these dates should your squads intend to take part in this new annual competition. Formal entry invitations will be issued shortly.
Any questions please contact Bristol & District Combination Women's Rugby Representative Francesca Golton, via email address:
treaclesponge11@hotmail.com
Urgent message from Bristol Referees Society
Following a very disruptive Saturday last week (December 2, 2023) due to the weather, there were several occasions where referees were not either informed of ko times or even contacted to inform them the games were cancelled.
Could I please ask that referees are contacted no later than Thursday confirming ko times.
I appreciate that there are times when you are not certain a game will go ahead but if contact with the referee can still be made it will help in ensuring that they are prepared either way.
In addition to the above, you will soon be receiving an email from the Society requesting all clubs confirm contact details for Who’s the Ref.
Many thanks
Ben Green
BRRS Saturday Fixtures Secretary