Our rugby club has a complicated relationship with Emanuel School and the Old Emanuel Association covering and our use of, and investment in Blagdons. The club has spent the last few years in long and complex discussions about a new lease for Blagdons and countless hours have gone into assessing the options to stay. Sadly, it has become clear that there is not a realistic solution that would not give us access to the facilities we need to both operate and grow the club in a sustainable way.

This means we have taken the difficult decision to move away from Blagdons. We currently expect to leave at the end of next season, in March 2022.

While these negotiations have been going on, we have been working incredibly hard with the RFU and local councils to find the best new home we can that suits all parts of our growing club. Our aim is to have our own pitches and clubhouse so we can manage and grow the club in a way that isn't possible at Blagdons. The 600 Club will effective allow us to create the finances to make this possible. Having the freedom to invest in both the playing and social side of the club will mean we can all get the most out of being part of our fantastic club. We've had detailed discussions about a number of options and will let you know more as information becomes available.

In the meantime, although Covid has changed a few things, we still have an exciting season ahead of us. We look forward to seeing you on the pitch, or enjoying the social side of things at the club. And Finally, if you haven't already done so, PLEASE sign up to the 600 Club (even if it is just one number per month) at www.friendsofoldemanuelrfc.com As we have said, it really is an investment into the future of the club. Thank you.