Our 1st XV beat local rivals Leamington 71–19, our 2nd XV broke the 100-point barrier against Manor Park, and our Ladies were triumphant over Rugby Lionesses. Not forgetting our Hornets, who stepped up off the pitch and took over the kitchen on Sunday.
A weekend to be proud of, both on and off the field.

But weekends like this don’t happen by accident. Behind every team and every fixture are people giving their time and effort for others.
As Remembrance approaches, that idea of service has made me reflect not only as Chair, but also as someone who served in the Royal Air Force.

Service teaches you that it is not about what you get back, but what you are prepared to give — your time, your effort and, for those we remember, sometimes far more.
Remembrance belongs to everyone. It is not about glorifying conflict, but remembering its human cost and those who put others, their communities and their country before themselves.

Royal Leamington Spa has its own remarkable connection to that history. During the Second World War, the town became home to members of the Free Czechoslovak Army, including Jan Kubiš and Jozef Gabčík, who carried out Operation Anthropoid in 1942. That history has a direct family connection within our own Club community, Jan was the Grandfather of one of our members! — reminding us that behind every name we remember was a person, a family and a story.


There is no comparison between the sacrifices we commemorate and everyday life, but the principle of giving something of yourself for others remains important.

We see that spirit throughout our Club. Every week, volunteers coach teams, organise fixtures, maintain our facilities, raise funds, run sections and carry out countless jobs that often go unseen.

When we stand together in silence this Remembrance Sunday, we remember those who served, those who suffered and those who never had the opportunity to grow old. We remember those who have served since, those serving today and the families who stand alongside them.

And on a personal note, thank you to everyone who gives their time to Old Leamingtonians. Whether your contribution is seen by many or quietly carried out behind the scenes, it matters. Our Club simply could not be what it is without you.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

Mark
Chair