MORE than £20,000 was raised for the newly-launched Rams Charitable Foundation on ‘one of the best nights ever at Old Bath Road’ – the centenary celebrations getting underway with a bang last Saturday.

Some 220 guests settled into a beautifully decorated marquee, many of whom have been involved in the club for years and years – Rodney Huggins’ seven-decade affiliation leading the way.

Guest speaker and former World Cup final referee Wayne Barnes delivered an outstanding after-dinner speech, preceded by a terrific introduction from Rams’ own 150-time Premiership official-turned-waterboy Ash Rowden, while the Lily & The Mulberry Earls jazz group got things underway with a swing.

After the food, successful auction and raffle – which formed the bulk of the money raised for the Foundation* – plus speeches were finished, Lily and The Twilight Show Band kept the party going as Ramily members old and new celebrated what should be a memorable campaign.

Draft copies of Nigel Sutcliffe’s 100-year history of the club also received praise, plenty of pre-orders going in, while CEO Gary Reynolds admitted it was one of his favourite nights at the club.

He said: “It was a great night and wonderful way to kick off the centenary. The food was great, Wayne was superb and it was brilliant to see so many people who have been part of the club for so long.”

Chairman Andy Lynch was equally happy, bar his one setback.

He admitted: “It was an absolute fantastic night – other than I didn’t get to eat my pudding!
“I turned round to listen to Wayne, and after a cracking speech, someone seemed to have had mine.”

In what promises to be an exciting campaign, plenty more events are planned – including the 100th anniversary first-team National One game against Leicester Lions on Saturday, October 5 – could a record crowd be in attendance?

Please keep an eye on our website and social media to make sure you can be part of the fun!
*The Foundation will provide Rams’ outreach into coaching local schools and other community initiatives.