There was a wonderful atmosphere of tradition, history and future as old friends and families mixed in a night of nostalgia and celebrations. The event attracted Avon members, not just locally and across the country but also some from as far away as New Zealand to commemorate 100 years existence since their foundation in 1925.

After an opening reception with glasses of bubbly and an initial catch up with old playing colleagues, Steve Bird welcomed everybody to this historic and prestigious event. There were a range of people across the decades, from teenagers through to old players in their 80s now. A toast was also proposed to “absent friends” sadly no longer with us.

A lovely 3 course meal followed, supported with copious wine in an almost capacity Lansdown Suite. Some amusing speeches from Kai Harwood and Kane Book continued the feel-good atmosphere before the annual awards ceremony took place in front of a packed room.

Chris Mutlow was a popular recipient of the Clubman of the year trophy, whilst Rob Fitch collected the Special Services award. The playing awards were presented to Olly Mutlow as Young Player, Matt Thresher as the Most Improved and Rhys van den Handel as the 1st team Players’ Player. Ed Higgins received the 2nd team equivalent, whilst Ben Hurd collected the special Captain’s Cup. Ben and Kane were also given Captains tankards.

The evening continued with dancing to Paul Mallon’s soulforce disco and fuzzy conversations with other members and guests before the conclusion of the official celebrations at midnight. The younger more active members then continued the after-party in various venues in Bath, whilst older attendees staggered homewards.

Many thanks to everybody who attended this culmination of the Avon RFC centenary celebrations and to those who helped in the preparations to ensure everything went smoothly.