Following John Eustace’s relocation to Qatar on business Gary Taylor stepped in admirably as Stand-In President at the end of last season. Gary has indicated that whilst he is keen to take up the position again in the future when he retires from work he is unable to commit at present. I am delighted to announce that Dave Kendall has accepted the post for the forthcoming year (subject to ratification at the AGM).

Jeremy Ainsley has joined Andrew Neal as a Junior Section Representative on the Club Management Committee.

When ‘Jojo’ Hall, nee Maddison, left to become a proud mother last season it left a sizeable gap in the overall organisation of medical care at the club. The physio support provided by Fraser Bell and Matty Ivin was invaluable but it was agreed that further support was needed. I am therefore pleased to announce that ‘Jojo’ Hall will now be taking up a new position of Head of Player Welfare to oversee the provision of medical care for players at the club. Whilst it is not envisaged that ‘Jojo’ will return as a physio she will be reviewing all medical and pastoral club requirements and leading the physio team. The provision of high quality medical support to all players continues to be a top priority for the club.

Annie Lees has taken up the position as Chair of Ladies Rugby. Annie has organised the Ladies Touch team for several successful years and has considerable knowledge of what is a growing game. As a club we continue to be keen to encourage expansion of both the Contact and Non-Contact forms of the game.

Sadly, Richard Cramb has had to resign from the position of Chair of Rugby for personal reasons. Peter ‘Bullet’ Southern has therefore taken up the role of Senior Director of Rugby and will attend Management Committee Meetings in place of the Chair of Rugby in future. Andrew Neal will cover the role of Junior Director of Rugby under his present position as a Junior Section Director.

The introduction of a Senior Director of Rugby has enabled Ben Woods to reduce his administrative duties as his work and family commitments increase. As a result, he now becomes Head Coach. The Senior Coaching Team has been increased with the introduction of former Tynedale and Harlequins player, Matt Shields. I’m also delighted to confirm that Tom Wilkinson, Ben Archer and Mark Tamplin have also committed to the forthcoming season giving us a formidable coaching group to support not only the Senior XVs but also player development in the Colts and Junior Section.

The Colts are now managed by Steve Turnbull who many of you will remember from his playing days at the club. Steve is looking for further volunteers to assist with the matchday organisation of the Colts. If you would be interested in assisting Steve please let him know. Tynedale stalwart Andrew Murray is assisting as a Coach and contributing his considerable experience to a very talented group of players. The Colts will compete in the Border League again this season.

Here's to an entertaining and successful season for the Club!