Rugby Colts Tour to
Hereford, Easter 1969

During the last week of the Spring term nineteen boys from the third and fourth forms spent five enjoyable days on a rugby tour in Hereford. This was the climax of many months of fund-raising, during which time a total of £100 was collected through dances, raffles and a sponsored walk.

After a long journey we arrived at our hotel, a converted Georgian house. The rooms were extremely comfortable, and the food excellent. During the first evening everyone went out to explore the town, some even finding a dance at a local boys' club. The next day saw the St. Nicholas boys in the town in the morning, visiting various coffee bars and looking at the sights. In the afternoon we played our first match, against Hereford High School, who beat us 13-10 in a game that we should undoubtedly have won. After dinner we were taken to the local entertainments centre for another dance, while the masters and Cyril, our driver, went for a long walk!!

The following day was spent at Belmont Abbey, a large public school with a reputation for very good rugby. Fortunately we were at our best, running out winners by 31-3. The final margin does flatter us a little as our opponents finished with only thirteen men. The next day was free, and after an Indian lunch we were taken into the Malvern Hills for some fell-walking, and into Worcester to visit the Cathedral. In the evening, with the staff out on another long walk, we savoured the night-life of Hereford.

On the morning of the last day we beat The Bishops School 12-9 after a very close match, during which we played probably the best rugby of the tour. Lunch was provided by the opposition, this time in a Chinese restaurant, and it was with regret that soon afterwards we had to begin our journey back to Northwood, after a highly successful tour.

G. M. BRIGGS, 5A.