Barnard Castle Rugby club have appointed a new president and director of rugby to drive their ambition forward.
The club, which celebrated their 50th anniversary this summer, are setting their sights on getting more people involved in rugby.
Club stalwart Tim Worley becomes president and Paul Davis is the new director of rugby with both pledging to work hard behind the scenes to support their club in the 51st year.
“It is an honour and totally unexpected,” said Tim, club president.
“I got involved with the club a long time ago. I started playing the mid-1980s when someone asked if I would play as they were short of players.”
Since then, Tim has supported the club as club secretary for over 25 years and has also helped with any jobs that needed doing.
“In the early days, we actually ended up painting the toilets with my wife when we were on honeymoon,” said Tim. “It was actually a horrible colour.
“David Jackson, the chairman, has outlined the duties I need to perform and I look forward to supporting those and helping to drive the club forwards.
“The teams have gone from strength to strength with the development of mini and junior rugby. It is great to see players playing who have come through the youth system.”
David said: “Tim has been a stalwart for many years at the club and it’s an honour he rightly deserves.”
Paul, known as Percy, has played at the club for 35 years, still competes age 51 and is relishing the opportunity to be director of rugby.
“I was asked to play at under-16s to help team the team out,” said Paul. “I love sport. It helps develop people’s self-confidence. During my time at the club I have made lifelong friends.”
Alongside playing, Paul has done other roles at the club, from social secretary to team manager of the men and women’s teams.
“There is always a need for volunteers,” he said. “I just felt like I wanted to give a bit back. That’s sounds cliche, but I wanted to just get involved. The club is my one true passion in life.
“Being a member of Barnard Castle Rugby Club, I want to play my part to see it grow and thrive. I want to help grow all three sections of the club. From the juniors all the way up to the men and women. Rugby is a great way to socialise, develop friendships and keep fit.”
David paid tribute to the previous club officials. He said: “Our appreciation goes to John Lowery, the retiring president, and Lee Armsley, who steps down as director of rugby.”
For more information on the club visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/barnardcastlerugbyclub
