Clifton Rugby Club began 2024 on a sad note with the passing of Ben Jordan who was known within rugby circles across the South West as Mr Clifton.
Formally known as Brian he changed his name to Ben at school because the school had too many Brians. He joined the club in the sixties and quickly assumed responsibility as captain of the B XV at the Eastfield Road ground. As an accountant he took on many roles over the years starting with Finance Committee but extending into many functions including Ground Chairman and Fixtures Secretary. Beyond the club he served the Bristol Rugby Combination and became the President of Gloucestershire Rugby where he became well known in both regional and national circles.
His wife, Linda, kept him in touch with club activities during his illness and his funeral attracted a large number of rugby folk from many clubs.
On the pitch the 1st XV has made a positive start to the year which included two long trips to Cornwall on successive January weekends. The year began with a significant try bonus point win at Camborne followed by a narrow defeat at Redruth and a sound home victory over Chester.
Spring fixtures at home with 1430 kick offs are one February fixture versus Hinckley and on 9th March local rivals Old Radcliffian and Bournville on the 23rd.
Full back Alex Howman has returned in fine form from a long injury lay off and the club hopes to see long serving forwards Charlie Bullimore and Henry Harper back in action as we head towards the season’s end. Unfortunately, influential number 8 forward and regular try scorer Brad Talbot has been sidelined with a hand injury sustained in the Redruth game.
Some promising young players have made valuable contributions. Fly half Nathan Chamberlain has impressed since joining with a strong pedigree, which originated in the Bristol Bears Academy followed by time with Edinburgh, Hartpury College and London Scottish. Also with us following time at Edinburgh and the seven a side circuit is GB track sprinter and local Clifton boy Freddie Owsley, whose father Dick played for the club and is the author of Rats Tales, which are memories of the Clifton Veterans’ tours [Rebels against Time and Senility]. Copies are available from the club with all proceeds going to charity.
Roger Opie