At this time of year it’s a great opportunity to review the previous 12 months and fanfare the wonderful events that have taken place for us all. Unfortunately, this is going to be the season to be ‘jolly careful indeed’

2020 will not go down in history as a fairy-tale year, but we must all continue to be wary of the hardship, mayhem & chaos it has caused. Even though we still have to remain particularly cautious for our futures. Covid has taken lives, friendships and disturbed our family social existence Too. It has changed much beyond recognition, although it has made life Smaller and quieter.

Yes, everything stopped back on march 23rd and into Lockdown we did go, limiting all we could do or even want to. Our beautiful game of rugby did not escape either and suffered a deflation never ever experienced before in our lives. It is with enormous regret that we have to report no play since march 7th away to maidenhead and although defeated Barnstaple were eventually declared clear champions of the league to earn us promotion back to national league 2 south again.

So, many congratulations once again to all involved, maintaining our fine reputation in the game nationally and we look forward to celebrating this whenever is suitable on behalf of the committee in our clubhouse!

2020, you impacted us like no other, you caused us havoc, but you also taught us some calm too, you gave us time and allowed us the chance to appreciate the value of many things we took for granted and hopefully you have replaced life’s extremes with a more stable contentment of life. The memories of 2020 will never be forgotten and perhaps we will look back on the year with much sadness, but we must turn those memories into positives and relish our potential going forward for kinder years ahead.

We have a great club to be proud of and with an excellent administrative committee ensuring this pride prospers to continue the rich club history of Barnstaple RFC long into the future. Whatever the challenges we face ahead, (lockdowns or continued zoom meetings included) together with confidence we will tread the various paths and rise above collectively for Barum.

To everyone, volunteers, supporters and sponsors of Barnstaple RFC, My seasonal best wishes to you and many thanks for all your contributions.

Ian Stanton

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