Champ Rugby - Ampthill RUFC

Print Page | Close Window

Ampthill RUFC

Printed From: National League Rugby Discussion Forum
Category: League Rugby - www.leaguerugby.co.uk
Forum Name: Champ Rugby
Forum Description: Discuss the 14 clubs who play in Champ Rugby
URL: http://www.leaguerugby.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=18638
Printed Date: 07 Jul 2025 at 07:12
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.04 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Ampthill RUFC

Posted By: Cherub
Subject: Ampthill RUFC
Date Posted: 22 Jun 2021 at 19:54

It was not unexpected but Ampthill RUFC have today announced that due to the effect of the pandemic they will be staying at Dillingham Park with plans to move to a new site near Center Parcs placed on the back boiler. At the same time they have announced the award of a sizeable grant from the local council to carry out improvements to the ground and its facilities. These include floodlights for two of the pitches, changing rooms for ladies, and the installation of a lift to the clubhouse.

Replies:

Posted By: Cherub
Date Posted: 25 Jun 2021 at 16:05

Blimey. With over 500 views for my first post I am absolutely amazed that no-one has ventured forward and suggested what else Ampthill could spend this grant on. An indoor toilet by the first team pitch would be nice but I have to admit there is something weird and wonderful about getting caught short, standing at the urinal, and watching a rugby ball appear every now and again in the skies above as someone kicks it upfield.

And of course it could be used to install a viewing point for tourists wanting to see the players "walk through the woods" to the first team pitch!

Posted By: gerg_861
Date Posted: 25 Jun 2021 at 16:36

I just think that these expenditures and decisions seem eminently sensible. I would be a big fan of the RFU restoring funding, but stipulating that that funding can only be spent on capital improvements e.g. lighting, stands, pitch drainage etc.

Posted By: workerbee
Date Posted: 25 Jun 2021 at 18:19

An Interesting decision, which is of course the result of the Pandemic , only you have to ask if the pandemic has affected the playing budget.

John Inverdale is trying to implement minimum ground criteria for the National Leagues. Already we have seen playing budgets, which, if clubs breach them are denied loans, grants, travel budgets (which are currently zero) and the loss of international ticket allocations.

Of course the problem with any Criteria, is the fact that there are many different ways that clubs are set up. At what point do you deny a club at any level, including Premiership from promotion based on ground criteria. Especially with the level of crowds even up to Championship level. How do you compare a club with one team and no youth or ladies to a club with 4 teams, Colts, Ladies, Mini and Junior Girls and Touch. The bulk of clubs are essentially based around the Social life of the players and supporters and will never be able fulfil and criteria which involves a substantial cost for Stands and secure entry.