Money Raised £2,000

Presidents XV v British Legion XV

Winners

Presidents XV

I am extremely pleased to welcome visitors and guests to the Jack Williams ground today for what promises to be a cracking game of rugby between two very good sides.

This is the second time I have invited a President’s XV to represent the club against a XV representing our closest neighbours, the Royal British Legion Poppy appeal, and most appropriately on the 11^th of the 11^th, Remembrance Day itself.

Last years game was a tremendous affair with the British Legion side captained by Ed Smith, the British army and combined services captain, ably supported by comrades from several units of the armed forces, taking on a combined Kent clubs and Aylesford Bulls team. The result was a resounding victory for the Poppy appeal topping over £1000.

This year the sides will be Playing for the ‘’Shell Case’’, a suitably apt trophy which I hope will be played for on many occasions in the future in support of a most worthwhile Charity - Do have a look at it in the clubhouse if you get the chance this evening.

The game of Rugby Football has long been played by the armed forces and rugby clubs the length and breath of the land have many current and ex servicemen amongst their members. This year in recognition of this relationship the RFU organised a high profile match to support the ‘’Help for Heroes’’ campaign, a cause which has long been the purpose of the Royal British Legion Poppy appeal, a charity which Aylesford Bulls RFC are very pleased to be associated with.

I am extremely grateful for the players of both sides for participating in this match this evening and for the officials who will ensure fair play. We are also extremely grateful to our sponsors Fayrefield Foods, Funway International and our programme sponsors the Kent Messenger group for their active participation in this evening’s event. I am also extremely grateful to the boy, girls and staff of the Maidstone Grammar School CCF for their tireless efforts in ensuring that cars are parked, donations are collected and fun is had by all concerned.

You will find things to keep you amused this evening not least of which the ‘’Tec Zone’’ and the Royal Artillery recruiting team, and also the raffle for an authenticated Martin Johnson signed shirt.

I hope you have a good evening and please dig deep and give generously!!

Yours in rugby

Andy Smith

Honorary President