Letchworth Rugby Club kicked off their centenary celebrations with the grand opening of their quarter-million-pound extension on Saturday, August 17th. Nearly a thousand people attended as long-time President Brian Burke spoke passionately about the great strides the club has made since its humble beginnings - when they rented a farmer's field in Norton for seven guineas a year in the 1920s.
The club's history is deeply rooted in the efforts of its early pioneers, Arthur Lamb and Claude Sykes, who held a pivotal meeting at the offices of Bolton and Tabor in Letchworth on October 19th, 1924. Their vision to establish a rugby club in North Herts has borne fruit for an entire century, with the club continuing uninterrupted, even during World War II. In recent years, Letchworth Rugby Club has ascended to the National Leagues, marking the highest standard in its history.
The opening day was filled with excitement as the first team took on the Sheffield Tigers from National 2. In a thrilling match, Letchworth more than held their own, with the visitors narrowly edging out the win by just a few points. The day also featured a fantastic match for the Lionesses women's team and a lively touch rugby game featuring the club's juniors.
The connection with Sheffield has deepened in recent years, especially as their chairman, Paul Walker, is the son of the late Graham “Boss” Walker, after whom the new extension is named. Paul, alongside Graham's younger son Michael, had the honour of cutting the ribbon to officially declare the club open.
This special moment was followed by a mass photograph and a delicious buffet prepared by Les Wilsher, enjoyed by over four hundred members and guests.
Brian on the new Club viewing gallery balcony with Paul Walker and younger brother, Michael.
Brian Burke expressed his gratitude, saying, “This project has been the brainchild of Chairman Chris Lunnon, who has worked relentlessly on it for the past year with his right-hand man, Gary Ryall. We are also indebted to our major sponsors, Lawson’s, Ashe Roofing, N&P Windows, D.B. Sharp and Sons, and Goldstar, who have made the whole thing financially viable. Our new room will comfortably seat seventy for lunch and provide spectators with a magnificent view of the first-team pitch. We often speak of the rugby ‘family’ as being special in sport, and on Saturday, we saw players present from the 1950s onwards, as well as babes in arms who may well be around for the second centenary!”
The day was not only a celebration of the club's rich history but also a testament to its vibrant community. Old friendships were rekindled, and many new ones were forged, making this one of the most memorable days in the long and glorious history of North Herts’ senior rugby club.
As we continue our centenary year, there will be several more major events, but this one was truly a cracker! The new season kicks off on September 7th with a home game against Shelford, and lunch will be available in the newly opened Walker Suite. For those interested in dining, please contact Les on 07827 373927.
As we reflect on this milestone, we extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors, members, and the local community for their unwavering support. For businesses looking to get involved, there are always opportunities to sponsor the club or specific teams. Together, we can continue to build a legacy that will last for generations.
View the photo gallery from the day, photos by Paddy Allen Photography.
