We were delighted to welcome over 70 Old Churcherians, former and current staff to the Churcher’s Rugby Centenary Lunch on Saturday 9 November, to celebrate 100 years of rugby being played at the school. 

Guests were able to look through old photographs and memorabilia from the school archive – from the 1920s through to the present-day. As part of this project, a new section on rugby has been created in the school’s digital archive which can be viewed at the link below - we hope you enjoy taking a look! 

Churcher's Archive 

Welcome teas and coffees were soon switched to beers and cheers, as the group supported the 1st XV in their match against John Fisher School on Memorial Field. The match was closely fought in the first half but an impressive display in the second half, resulted in the school taking a resounding victory, 20-3. A special mention must go to Old Churcherian, Chris Goss (79), who ably refereed the match. 

Guests were then treated to lunch in the Assembly Hall hosted by the Headmaster, Simon Williams, where they were also each given a copy of our new publication written by current staff member, Bill Baker - ‘Churcher’s Rugby 1924 to 2024’. This historical account includes excerpts from ‘The Churcherian’ and anecdotes from Old Churcherians, former staff and friends of the school – thank you to all those who have contributed to it. The book can be viewed online at the link HERE. 

We were delighted to welcome former pupil and capped England and British Lions player, Tim Rodber (87), at the event, and very grateful for his speech over lunch. The audience delighted in hearing his stories, including the part played by former member of staff, Bob Broadhead, to help Tim get his first break, and his time in Churcher’s, Northampton, England and British Lions rugby shirts. Everyone, especially the 1st XV team, to whom Tim presented rugby ties, took away some life lessons about resilience, being the best we can be, as well as often relying on a bit of luck! 

Our thanks go to all those who attended and helped us make the celebration of 100 years of rugby at Churcher’s such a special occasion. 

Photographs from the day can be viewed HERE. 

‘We had a really great time. The 1st XV were impressive, Tim Rodber was inspiring and hooking up with old friends was heart-warming.’ 

Mike Salmon (76)