Author: Denys Andrianjafy

2025 AGM Notice image

Notice of Annual General Meeting 2026

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury Rugby Club’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday 18th August 2026, at The Marine Travel Ground, with doors open from 7.00pm for a prompt 7.30pm start.

All members are warmly invited to attend and play a part in the governance of our club as we reflect on the 2025/26 season and prepare for the year ahead.

AGM Details:

Venue: The Clubhouse, Merton Lane, Canterbury
Date: Tuesday 18th August 2026
Time: 7.00pm arrival for a 7.30pm start

Agenda Highlights:

  1. Apologies for absence
  2. Approval of 2025 AGM minutes
  3. Chairman’s report on the 2025/26 season
  4. Financial report and approval of club account
  5. To consider a resolution disapplying the provisions of the Cooperative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014, that the Membership of the Club represented at the Annual General Meeting do not require an Audit to be completed on the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st May 2027, subject to confirmation at the AGM that the accounts for the Year Ended 31st May 2027 meet the requirements.
  6. Election of officers for the 2026/27 season:
    President – Andrew Morris
    Treasurer – Rob Reynolds
    Secretary – Sally Taylor
  7. Appointment of Executive Committee members
    Youth Chair – Ky Campion
    Safeguarding – Chris Bull
    Director of Rugby – Andrew Gwilliam
    Player Welfare – Chris Fullbrook
    Compliance – Dom Graham
    Community – Matt Pinnick
    Commercial – Giles Hilton
    Marketing & Communications – Denys Andrianjafy
  8. Consideration of any proposed motions under Club Rule 8.5
  9. Any other relevant matters for future Committee consideration (non-voting)
  10. Appointment of ‘New’ Chairman – Giles Hilton

Nominations & Motions:

We welcome nominations and motions from members for the following:

  • Officers: President, Treasurer, Secretary
  • Executive Committee Members
  • Motions relating to Club Rules (in accordance with Rule 8.5)

All nominations and motions must be submitted in writing, be proposed and seconded, and sent to the Club Secretary via email: secretary@cantrugby.co.uk

Deadline for all submissions: Midnight, Sunday 2nd August 2026 (nominations will be for the 27/28 season)

Financial Information:

A full financial statement will be available ahead of the AGM. If you would like a copy, please contact the Secretary – secretary@cantrugby.co.uk, and it will be sent to you when available.

Posted in AGM
World Cup semi final 2026

Watch England v Argentina at the Marine Travel Ground

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

England are through to the World Cup semi-final, and the Marine Travel Ground is the place to watch every moment.

On Wednesday, 15 July, England face Argentina for a place in the World Cup final. Can Bellingham, Kane, and the team overcome Argentinian flair and write a new chapter in one of international football’s most famous rivalries?

Join us at the Marine Travel Ground and experience the match surrounded by fellow supporters, with the bar open from 6.00pm ahead of the 8.00pm kick off.

SCRUM Kitchen will be serving its pizza menu along with two speciality World Cup burgers.

The English
Cheddar cheese and bacon on a meaty steak burger.

The Argentinian
Chimichurri and cheese on a succulent steak burger.

Both are served with fries for £10, with food available until the end of full-time play.

There is plenty of space to meet friends, bring the family, and enjoy the build-up before watching England carry the hopes of a nation.

You can also leave the usual matchday parking scramble behind. Parking at the Marine Travel Ground is completely free.

Expect cold drinks, good food, a lively crowd, and an atmosphere worthy of a World Cup semi-final.

Pickle will also be on security detail, although we cannot guarantee he will remain fully focused on the burgers.

Wednesday 15 July
Marine Travel Ground
Bar open from 6.00pm
Kick off at 8.00pm
Family friendly
Free parking

Come down, find your place and get behind England.

John Halliday

Club statement: Chair transition

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury Rugby Football Club can confirm that John Halliday has tendered his resignation as Club Chair.

John has served the club with commitment, care, and dedication, helping to steer the ship through an important period for Canterbury Rugby Club. His contribution has been greatly valued by the Executive Committee, the wider club leadership team, and the many volunteers who work so hard across every part of the club.

The role of Chair carries significant responsibility, requiring time, energy, and presence. John has taken the decision that he is no longer able to give the role the level of commitment it deserves alongside his work and personal commitments.

On behalf of everyone at Canterbury Rugby Club, we would like to thank John sincerely for his leadership, friendship and service. We wish him well and are pleased that he remains committed to supporting the club wherever he can.

Giles Hilton will assume the position of Chair on an interim basis until a new Chair is formally voted in at the club’s AGM in August.

The club will continue to move forward with the support of its Executive Committee, volunteers, members, players, parents, supporters, and partners.

#OneClub

Owain Collins - VC Business Challenge

Canterbury RFC community team crowned Vice Chancellor’s Business Games champions

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

A huge congratulations to our Community Department coaching team who were crowned champions at the annual Vice Chancellor’s Business Games, hosted by partner organisation Canterbury Christ Church University on Thursday 18 June.

The event brings together businesses and organisations from across the local area for a day of competition, teamwork, and friendly rivalry. Teams compete across a variety of sports, games, and challenges, with points awarded based on performance in each activity. Additional fair play points recognise teamwork, sportsmanship, and the spirit in which the games are played.

This year’s activities included pull ball, an assault course, kin-ball, pickleball, over the line, and boccia, providing plenty of opportunities for teams to test themselves in unfamiliar sports and challenges.

Representing Canterbury Rugby Football Club were Matt Corker, Alice Hayward, Owain Collins, Cameron Macmillan, and Ella Jenkins. Competing against 16 other teams from across the local business, education, and community sectors, including several organisations that partner with the club, the team consistently performed throughout the day to finish top of the overall standings and claim the Vice Chancellor’s Business Games title.

Beyond the competition itself, the event also supported an important local cause, with proceeds from the day going to East Kent Mencap. The organisation supports people with learning disabilities and their families across East Kent, making the event an opportunity not only to bring local organisations together, but also to make a positive contribution to the wider community.

Reflecting on the day, one member of the team said:

“It was an incredibly fun day, very well organised by CCCU, a great opportunity to learn new sports, get a little competitive, but overall there was huge sportsmanship and a lot of fun with other businesses.”

Despite the heat, the games were played in excellent spirit throughout. While every team was keen to perform well, the day struck the perfect balance between friendly competition, teamwork, and sportsmanship, creating an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

While winning the competition was a fantastic achievement, the event was also a great example of what makes the local business and sporting community so strong. Bringing organisations together through sport, teamwork, and shared experiences helps create new connections, strengthen relationships, and showcase the positive role that sport can play beyond the pitch.

Thank you to the Sport and Active Health Department at Canterbury Christ Church University for hosting and delivering such an outstanding event. The organisation throughout the day was excellent, the facilities provided a fantastic setting for the competition, and the welcoming atmosphere ensured that everyone could enjoy the experience, regardless of the final standings. Events like the Vice Chancellor’s Business Games play an important role in bringing together organisations from across the region and strengthening the connections that help our community thrive.

Participants were also well looked after throughout the day, with refreshments provided by Shepherd Neame and lunch served by Smokey Joe’s, helping to keep energy levels high despite the warm conditions.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, and well done to Matt, Alice, Owain, Cameron, and Ella on representing the Black & Amber so brilliantly and bringing the Vice Chancellor’s Business Games trophy back to the Marine Travel Ground.

Nat 2 East 26-27

National 2 East 2026/27

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy
There will be three newcomers to National 2 East in the 2026/27 season, Colchester and Jersey, both promoted, and Leicester Lions, relegated from National One.  A full fixture list is expected to be published in June.

National 2 East

Barnes, Canterbury, Colchester, Dorking, Esher, Guernsey, Havant, Henley, Jersey, Leicester Lions, London Welsh, Od Albanian, Oundle, Westcombe Park.
We are hiring

We are recruiting

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Treasurer

Volunteer Role | Member of the Executive Committee

Join one of Kent’s leading community sports clubs, with more than 1,000 members and participants and annual revenues exceeding £1 million.

Canterbury Rugby Football Club is seeking a Treasurer to join its Executive Committee and play a key role in the financial stewardship of the club.

Canterbury Rugby Club is much more than a rugby club. We provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities through men’s, women’s, wheelchair, mini and youth rugby, alongside a growing programme of community activities, events, hospitality, and commercial partnerships.

As the club continues to grow, we are looking for an individual who can provide financial oversight, support strong governance, and help ensure the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

This is a volunteer role that offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference to a thriving community organisation while applying your professional skills and experience in a rewarding environment.

About the Role

The Treasurer is responsible for overseeing the financial management and reporting of the club and acts as a key link between the Executive Committee and the club’s accounts function.

Working closely with fellow Executive Committee members, the accounts team, banking partners, and external advisers, the Treasurer helps ensure that the club’s finances are managed effectively and transparently.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee the club’s in-house accounts department
  • Act as the primary point of contact between the Executive Committee and the accounts department
  • Liaise with the club’s bankers and financial institutions
  • Prepare and present monthly management accounts to the Executive Committee, including Profit and Loss Accounts and Balance Sheets
  • Prepare the club’s annual budget and monitor financial performance against budget throughout the year
  • Prepare annual accounts
  • Complete the club’s annual return to the Financial Conduct Authority
  • Liaise with external accountants regarding taxation and compliance matters
  • Provide financial insight and support to the Executive Committee to assist strategic decision-making

Who We Are Looking For

We are interested in hearing from individuals with experience in:

  • Accountancy
  • Finance
  • Bookkeeping
  • Financial management
  • Commercial business management

You may be an experienced finance professional, a qualified accountant, a retired finance leader, a business owner, or someone with relevant financial expertise looking to contribute to their local community.

Previous experience within rugby or sport is not essential.

Most importantly, we are looking for someone who can bring sound financial judgement, integrity, and a commitment to helping Canterbury Rugby Club continue to thrive.

Why Join Canterbury Rugby Club?

As Treasurer, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Contribute to the leadership of one of Kent’s largest and most successful community rugby clubs
  • Support a club with more than 1,000 members and participants
  • Help oversee an organisation with annual revenues exceeding £1 million
  • Work alongside a committed team of volunteers and staff
  • Play a meaningful role in the continued growth and development of rugby and community sport across East Kent

At Canterbury Rugby Club, we believe rugby is about much more than what happens on the pitch. It is about community, opportunity, belonging, and creating an environment where people of all ages can thrive.

If that sounds like something you would like to be part of, we would love to hear from you.

Interested?

If you would like to play a key role in the future of one of Kent’s leading community sports clubs, we would love to hear from you.

For an informal conversation about the role, or to submit your expression of interest, please contact:

treasurer@cantrugby.co.uk

Closing date for applications: Thursday 20 June 2026

Canterbury Rugby Football Club is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. We welcome expressions of interest from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

U14 Prize winners

Canterbury U14’s season roundup

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

What a season it has been for Canterbury U14’s.

The squad welcomed 13 new players this year and has grown to more than 50 playing members, regularly fielding two sides: the Spitfires and the Hurricanes. From the very start of the campaign, the focus was clear. Develop players, strengthen the squad, and create opportunities for as many boys as possible to progress through the programme.

That hard work paid off in remarkable fashion.

A total of 27 players represented the Spitfires this season, something the coaching team described as unprecedented in over 20 years of coaching, and a reflection of the depth, commitment, and togetherness running throughout the squad.

Hurricanes rise to the challenge

The Hurricanes enjoyed a superb campaign, winning 17 of their 24 matches and scoring an incredible 860 points along the way.

Their season began with heartbreak against Medway on the Astro, a match many left believing should have been won in the closing moments. Yet that performance proved to be a turning point. It showed just how far the team had come and confirmed they could compete with some of the strongest sides in the county.

A huge second half display against Dartford demonstrated the belief growing within the group, while the standout performance of the season came against Winchester, where the Hurricanes delivered a complete performance from first whistle to last.

The reward for their efforts is a deserved place in Kent League 2 next season, and the chance to continue building on an outstanding year of development and progress.

Spitfires crowned champions again

The Spitfires produced another extraordinary season, losing just once in 20 matches, scoring 885 points and conceding only 176.

For the second consecutive year, they were crowned Kent League 1 champions and also recorded impressive victories against fellow county champions from across the South of England.

Two moments, however, defined the season.

The first came before Christmas away at Sevenoaks. Twelve points behind with four minutes remaining and facing the prospect of relegation from League 1, the boys produced rugby packed with composure, discipline, and character beyond their years.

A late score forced one final push. What followed was an astonishing passage of play that saw the Spitfires retain possession through 11 minutes of additional time, phase after phase, marching the length of the pitch before being awarded a decisive penalty try to win the match and preserve their League 1 status.

The second defining moment came in the League 1 Final.

Having suffered a heavy defeat away to Old Dunstonians earlier in the season, the challenge facing the team was immense. But the response was nothing short of inspirational. Digging deep physically and mentally, the Spitfires overturned that result with a dramatic 21 to 19 victory to secure the Kent Championship once again.

Their resilience, refusal to accept defeat, and ability to respond under pressure became the hallmark of this side all season long.

One squad, one season to remember

Across both teams, Canterbury U14’s played 44 matches, winning 36 and scoring a remarkable 1,745 points.

Beyond the league campaign, the squad also toured Lille, facing sides from Holland and Belgium before travelling on to Roubaix. It was a weekend filled with rugby, friendships, and memories that will stay with the players for years to come.

End of season awards

Squad Coaches Player
Emmanuel Asante

Club Player of the Season
James Lategan

Spitfires awards

Backs Player of the Year
Malachi Hamer

Forwards Player of the Year
James Lategan

Most Improved Player
Harry Lusher

Hurricanes awards

Backs Player of the Year
Josh Showler

Forwards Player of the Year
Luke Bunting

Most Improved Player
Kayim Enol

Congratulations to every player, coach, parent, and supporter involved in a truly unforgettable season for Canterbury U14’s. The future of Black & Amber rugby looks incredibly bright.

50 Years in Black & Amber – A lifetime at Canterbury Rugby Club

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

When you speak to John Scurr, Colin’s father, about his journey at Canterbury Rugby Club, one thing becomes clear very quickly. This is not just a rugby story. It is a family story, woven into the fabric of the club over decades.

At the heart of it sits a remarkable milestone.
Fifty years playing for Canterbury Rugby Club.

From under 8s through to today, now 57 years old, Colin’s connection to the club has never wavered. It is a level of loyalty and commitment that very few can match, and one that speaks volumes about what Canterbury means to those who pass through its gates.

Colin’s journey began after bringing home a flyer from his primary school, aged just seven. A bit of encouragement, and perhaps a little persistence from Colin himself, saw John bring him down to the club one Sunday morning.

From that point on, he never really left.

Under the guidance of Mike Dinnaen, Roger Sheridan and Clive Adlam, Colin progressed all the way through the age groups into Colts, building not just his game, but lifelong friendships and a deep connection to the club.

His playing career would go on to span five decades. Along the way, he captained Canterbury Colts and East Kent Colts, before stepping into senior rugby leadership. Beginning with the 3rd XV, and moving through the 4ths, 5ths and beyond as the years went on, Colin led sides across the club, always putting the team first and continuing to contribute wherever he was needed.

In total, 27 years as a captain and 23 years as a player, a remarkable contribution across every level of the senior game.

But for Colin, and for those who know him best, it is not about which side he led or where he played.

“One of the things Colin really drove was family,” John reflects. “Brothers, fathers and sons playing together. It became a real way of bringing people into the club and keeping them here.”

That spirit has been a constant throughout his time at Canterbury, particularly within the Zingari and the wider senior section, where enjoyment, togetherness and belonging sit at the heart of everything.

His own introduction to senior rugby, however, came in rather more unusual circumstances.

John had been persuaded to turn out on an ad hoc basis for the club, with Colin often tagging along on Saturdays after his junior games on a Sunday. During one match, injuries left the side short, and the captain spotted Colin on the touchline in his Canterbury kit.

“Can he play?” came the question.

He could. And he did.

Colin stepped in and impressed immediately, more than holding his own. It was only after the match that John had to quietly explain that his son was just thirteen years old at the time, a detail that, as John puts it, “fell on deaf ears”. Different times, and a story that still raises a smile.

There is one moment, though, that has followed Colin ever since.

On an away trip to Woodford, tensions briefly flared when an opposition player took a swing at John and missed. Before anyone could react, a young Colin came flying over a maul in defence of his father, shouting the now familiar line:
“Don’t you hit my dad.”

The game stopped. Players, opposition, and referee alike were left in fits of laughter. It is a moment that has lived on in club folklore ever since.
It captures something important about Colin Scurr. Loyalty. Passion. And above all, family.

Fifty years at Canterbury Rugby Club.

From a young boy with a flyer, to a lifetime in Black & Amber.

A player.
A captain.
A teammate.
A cornerstone of the club.

#OneClub

Rob Hards

Rob Hards

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Rob HardsIt is with great sadness that we report the death of Rob Hards on April 16th, a former 1st XV and Pilgrims second row. A great character, much loved, and will be missed. Our thoughts, best wishes, and condolences go out to his family at this sad time.

Rob’s funeral will be on the 14th of May at 2:30, Herne Bay crematorium, followed by the Wake at Chislet Welfare Club, Hersden.

 

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

The season may pause for Easter, but the spirit of Canterbury Rugby Club does not slow down.

As we head into the Easter weekend, we send our warmest wishes to every member of our Black and Amber family, players young and old, coaches, volunteers, staff, partners, and supporters. Thank you for everything you continue to give to this club. We hope you have a peaceful, happy Easter, and the chance to enjoy some well-earned time with family and friends.

This year, though, we do so with care and perspective. Our local community, and others further afield, have been affected by the recent meningitis outbreak, and our thoughts remain with everyone who has been impacted. At times like this, rugby reminds us of something important. We are more than teams and fixtures. We are a community that looks out for one another, supports one another, and stands together when it matters.

That spirit has been clear again this week.

On the pitch, the Pilgrims took a huge step forward with an impressive home win over Beckenham, keeping their survival hopes in their own hands and giving the MTG plenty to cheer. The Zingari showed real grit to battle back for a deserved draw, while the Canons produced a performance full of fight and nearly turned around a difficult afternoon. Across Mini and Youth, there were festivals, tours, tournament wins, and more brilliant signs of progress, from the Under 10s winning ten of twelve matches to the Under 12s being crowned tour winners in Skegness.

Off the field, the club once again showed what #OneClub really means. On Sunday we hosted another hugely important screening day with Cardiac Risk in the Young, with 95 young hearts screened and six individuals advised to seek follow up. That is awareness in action. That is community making a difference. It is something this club should be incredibly proud of.

There is plenty else in this issue too, from Top to Toe Fitness helping people reset their routines, to the countdown to the May Ball, Easter camps, pre match lunches, and all the good things that keep the Black and Amber family connected well beyond matchday.

So as Easter arrives, we reflect, we celebrate, and we stick together. That is what this club does best.

#OneClub #GetBehindUs

28th/29th March weekend scores roundup

Pilgrims 41 – 22 Beckenham
The Pilgrims kept their Regional 2 survival hopes firmly in their own hands with an impressive 41–22 victory over Beckenham in their final home game of the season.

Playing down the slope in the first half, Canterbury made a strong start. Tries from Tom Mackenzie and Owain Collins gave them early control before Beckenham hit back to narrow it to 10–7 at the break.

The Pilgrims came out firing in the second half. A superb counter attack finished by Max Campbell, converted from the touchline, stretched the lead, and from there Canterbury began to take control. Cam MacMillan powered over from close range to secure the bonus point, while Campbell added further tries to cap a sharp attacking display.

Beckenham stayed in the contest and picked up their own scores, but the Pilgrims’ aggressive defence and attacking intent proved decisive. Mackenzie added his second from a penalty, and a late score, created by a powerful break from man of the match James Everatt and finished by Campbell, sealed the win.

A strong, composed performance at a crucial stage of the season. One more win from the final two fixtures will secure the Pilgrims’ place in Regional 2 next season.

Canons 19 – 24 Gravesend II’s
It was a frustrating afternoon for the Canons as a young, energetic Gravesend side edged a close contest at the Marine Travel Ground.

Despite a strong start in the tight, Canterbury was caught out by Gravesend’s pace out wide, conceding two early tries. Discipline then proved costly, with two quick yellow cards reducing the hosts to 13 players. Although they defended bravely, Gravesend added a third score on the stroke of half time to lead 17–0.

The response after the break was excellent. Josh Lamb sparked the comeback with a powerful solo try, before further scores from Ollie Jeffery and Adrian Geddes closed the gap to 24–19 and set up a tense final quarter.

The Canons pushed hard for a fourth try to take the lead, but errors at key moments denied them the breakthrough. Gravesend missed a late penalty, allowing Canterbury to secure a losing bonus point from a hard-fought contest.

After the Easter break, the Canons face a tough run in against some of the league’s top sides, but will look to carry the positives from this performance into the final fixtures.

Zingari 17 – 17 Thanet III’s
The Zingari returned to action after a long-enforced break and were made to work hard in a closely fought contest with Thanet Wanderers.

Rust showed early on as Thanet dominated territory, but resolute defence kept Canterbury in the game until the visitors eventually crossed for an unconverted try. The response was excellent. A strong break into the Thanet half created the platform for Elliot Nye to slice through and score, with Rob Horan converting to give the Zingari a narrow half time lead.

The second half remained tight. Thanet regained the lead after capitalising on a loose clearance, but Canterbury continued to battle and were rewarded when Horan slotted a penalty to level the scores.

In a dramatic finish, Thanet struck again late on, but the Zingari refused to give in. With the final play, they launched one last attack and Nye once again delivered, crossing for his second try. Horan added the conversion to secure a hard earned and well-deserved draw.

Women’s 1st XV HWO Aylesford

Mini & Youth round-up

Another fantastic weekend across the Mini and Youth section, with festivals, fixtures, and tours showcasing the effort, development, and spirit that defines the Black and Amber.

Mixed Under 6’s
Player of the Week goes to Ellis for his hard work both on and off the ball. Always looking to make the right pass and, most importantly, playing with a huge smile on his face.

Mixed Under 7’s
The Under 7’s had a brilliant time at Ashford, showing respect, teamwork, and positivity throughout. The teams supported each other brilliantly when not playing, and the coaches were particularly impressed with their defending, strong tagging, and forward running to score tries.

Mixed Under 8’s
An excellent day for the Under 8’s at Folkestone. Both teams played with discipline and respect across all their matches. There were plenty of tries, with players showing great work rate and persistence. A special mention to Lizzy in the green team, who was outstanding. Several players experienced their first festival and came away eager for more.

Mixed Under 9’s
The Under 9’s performed superbly at Tonbridge Juddians in the Kent Mini’s Festival. Every player showed grit and enthusiasm, doing themselves and their coaches proud throughout the day.

Mixed Under 10’s
The Under 10’s entered three teams into the Kent Mini’s Festival, with an incredible twenty seven players representing Canterbury. Their love of the game and determination to perform shone through, winning ten of their twelve matches. A superb effort from the entire group.

Mixed Under 11’s
The Under 11’s took part in the Kent Mini’s Festival at Medway, working hard throughout the day. Their team positioning, support play, and communication were excellent, with the whole squad representing the club with pride.

Boys Under 12’s
The Under 12’s were away on tour in Skegness last weekend and delivered a fantastic performance. On Saturday they won all four games to progress into the cup competition. On Sunday they faced some of the strongest opposition they have encountered, battling through cold conditions to secure two wins and two draws, ultimately winning the tournament. A tremendous achievement.

Boys Under 13’s
The Under 13 mixed team travelled to Whitstable and came away with a strong 7 to 3 victory. It was particularly pleasing for the coaches to see recent training work being applied in the match. A big thank you to Whitstable for hosting.

Players of the Match were Algie and Joseph.

Girls Section
Molly continues to show excellent progress in the midweek girls sessions. Her hard work on her catch and pass was clear to see this week, with significant improvement in both accuracy and positioning to receive the ball on the move.

A brilliant week across the section, with players, coaches, and families all contributing to another strong showing for Canterbury Rugby Club.

95 young hearts screened

On Sunday 29 March 2026, Canterbury Rugby Club was proud to host another hugely important screening day in partnership with Cardiac Risk in the Young.

The result speaks for itself

95 young people were screened.

Of those, 6 individuals have been advised to follow up with their GP regarding symptoms, family history, or to undertake further tests.

That is exactly why this work matters.

Awareness in action

Many cardiac conditions show no obvious signs. Young people can appear fit, strong and healthy. Screening provides reassurance for the vast majority, and where concerns are identified, it allows early referral and further investigation.

Six young people will now take the next step. Six families have clarity and direction. That alone justifies the day.

This event does not happen by accident

It takes fundraising. It takes organisation. It takes volunteers. It takes families willing to book appointments and have important conversations.

As a club, we set out not only to raise awareness but to support the cost of bringing this life saving service to Canterbury. The response from our Black and Amber community once again showed what makes this club special.

We are incredibly proud to continue leading the way in supporting CRY screening at grassroots level.

The message remains the same

At least 12 young people die every week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions.

Screening saves lives. Awareness changes outcomes. Community makes it possible.

Thank you to every young person who attended, every parent who supported, every volunteer who gave their time, and everyone who donated to help make the day happen.

We protect our own.

Reset your routine with Top to Toe Fitness Canterbury

There is a familiar story for many of us. You have trained before, you know what it feels like to be fit and strong, but somewhere along the way life gets busy and consistency slips.

Top to Toe Fitness Canterbury has launched something designed specifically for that moment.

Based at Canterbury Rugby Club, their new 6 Week Routine Reset programme is built for those who are ready to get back into a rhythm that actually lasts.

This is not about quick fixes or short bursts of motivation. It is about building a routine that fits around your life and holds up when things get busy.

Built for real life, not perfect routines

Routine Reset is designed for people who have trained before but need structure, support, and accountability to stay consistent.

Over six weeks, you will receive:

  • Personalised coaching tailored to your current lifestyle
  • Small group training, with a maximum of eight participants
  • A clear, structured approach to rebuilding your routine
  • Support that focuses on sustainable habits, not quick wins

It is a simple idea, delivered properly. Help people train consistently again, and everything else follows.

Small group, big impact

By limiting each intake to just eight people, Top to Toe ensures every participant gets the attention and coaching they need.

It creates an environment that is focused, supportive, and built around progress. No one gets lost in the session, and everyone moves forward together.

Starting 20 April

The next intake begins on 20 April, with just eight spaces available.

If you have been waiting for the right time to get back into training, this is it.

No pressure, no noise, just a clear plan and the support to see it through.

Take the first step

Consistency is what drives progress, and progress is what keeps you going.

Reserve your place and reset your routine today:

https://goteamup.com/p/12396993-top-to-toe-fitness-canter/memberships/265922/

Because getting started again is one thing. Staying consistent is everything.

The countdown is on to the Canterbury RFC May Ball

Clear your diary, rally your friends, and get ready for one of the most spectacular nights in the Black and Amber calendar. The Canterbury RFC May Ball is back on Friday 22 May 2026, and it promises an evening packed with style, celebration, and unforgettable moments.

From the moment you arrive at 6.30pm, you will be stepping into a night designed to impress. Think elegant surroundings, a buzzing atmosphere, and the familiar warmth of the Canterbury rugby family coming together to celebrate another season.

Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner served at 7.30pm, before the night truly comes alive. There will be dancing, games, an auction, and a raffle, alongside crowd favourites including dodgems and a 360 photobooth, giving you plenty of chances to laugh, compete, and capture memories with friends old and new.

Providing the soundtrack to the night is FNKHAUS, bringing an irresistible mix of dance floor fillers, club classics, and party anthems. Whether you are first on the dance floor or waiting for your favourite song to drop, this is music made for letting your hair down and dancing the night away.

The dress code is Black Tie, so expect a room full of sharp suits, stunning dresses, and plenty of Black and Amber flair. It is a chance to dress up, celebrate in style, and enjoy the club at its most glamorous. Carriages are at 1.00am, but do not be surprised if you wish the night could go on even longer.

Tickets are £80 per head, and places are limited. This event always sells quickly, so early booking is highly recommended.

To secure your place, contact Kirsty Walder at kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk

This is more than just a ball. It is a night to celebrate friendships, memories, and everything that makes Canterbury Rugby Club special. Get behind it, get dressed up, and be part of a truly magical Black and Amber evening.

Join us for a Men’s 1st XV pre-match lunch at the Marine Travel Ground

There’s no better way to spend a home matchday than enjoying great food, great company, and great rugby.

Freshly prepared by SCRUM Kitchen, and full of the atmosphere that makes Canterbury Rugby special. Enjoy a three-course meal, the traditional speeches, and our raffle and auction before heading pitch-side to cheer on the Black & Amber.

Places still available at the re-arranged Men’s 1st XV v Oxford Harlequins pre-match lunch  –  2nd May

£35 per head

To book your place or table, contact kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk

Spaces are limited, so get your name down early and be part of the build-up to another big home game.

More than just matchday fuel

From the mighty Big SCRUM full English (featuring Preston Butchers’ sausages) to lighter bites like mushrooms on sourdough or Greek yoghurt with homemade granola, there’s something for every appetite. Veggie favourites like the Big Veg and smoky Spanish beans never disappoint.

Little scrummers are well catered for too. The Scrummies Menu serves up mini classics such as beans or eggs on toast, bacon rolls, or sugar pearl waffles, all with a drink for just £5.

With bread from Gilda Bakery and sweet treats from Beardy Bakery, everything is fresh, local, and full of flavour.

So why not start your day the rugby way? Come hungry, leave happy, and make SCRUM Kitchen part of your matchday ritual.

Book your table or brose our menus at https://www.scumkitchen.co.uk

Regular Opening Hours

  • Saturday: Breakfast from 9.00am.
  • Closed this Easter Sunday
  • Monday – Friday Breakfast served till midday
  • Pizza Nights (Tues, Wed, Thurs – 6.00pm to 8.00pm): Perfect for after training. Enjoy a pizza and a pint, or pre-order so the kids’ slices are ready as they come off the pitch. And if you’re the one training, what better way to round off your session than with a fresh slice. Check out the menus at https://www.scrumkitchen.co.uk

SCRUM Kitchen will be closed during the day 15th April due to a private function and will reopen for pizza and training at 6.00pm in the evening.

SCRUM Kitchen: Made with pride, served with heart, bringing local ingredients to our community table.

300 Club winners

Congratulations to our February and March winners:

February
97 x Greg Mayne
43 x John Scurr
119 x Bob Pilcher
91 x Dom Graham
86 x Michael Avery

March
45 x Giles Hilton
35 x C Dilnot – Smith
121 x Simon Ovenden
111x Jerry Copestake

Join us and support your rugby family
The 300 Club is one of the simplest ways to make a real difference to Canterbury Rugby Club. For just £5 a month, you help fund the projects, facilities, and opportunities that keep the Black & Amber family thriving.

Every month, members are entered into a cash prize draw, and at Christmas we celebrate with a bumper £1000 prize. It is our way of giving something back to those who back us.

Getting involved is easy. Visit the club website to download the application and direct debit forms, or get in touch with Jill for more details at 300club@cantrugby.co.uk.

Your support goes straight into the heart of the club. Be in it to win it, and help keep our One Club spirit strong.

We wish you all the best of rugby!