OUR photo this week shows the mayor opening the new Salisbury Rugby pitch in 1953 – these were happier times unlike those which arose as a result of the Second World War.

However, in spite of the difficulties and adverse conditions encountered by that conflict, a small band of rugby enthusiasts succeeded in keeping rugby alive in the city.

At the outbreak of the war the committee of the Salisbury Rugby Football Club decided to suspend activities for the duration, but a few people decided to run a “War-Time Rugby Club.”

It was a difficult matter because they had neither money nor equipment.

They were fortunate, however, in obtaining the help of Dr FC Happold, headmaster of the Bishop Wordsworth’s School, who gave them permission to use the playing fields at Britford Lane. Accommodation for changing was supplied by Mr Hallett, of the Swan Inn, Harnham, who placed a garage at their disposal.

Although the season 1940-41 was not such a success from the point of matches won, the financial status of the club improved considerably – this was mainly due to the successful dances organised and held at the Guildhall.

The problem of getting sufficient players was also a difficult one, for many of the old team had joined His Majesty’s Forces.

This was partly overcome by inviting officers and men stationed in the locality to play, and the members of the Bishop Wordsworth’s School who were asked to play also proved of invaluable service.

Club Chairman, Mr EH Lloyd, praised the publicity given in the local newspapers saying: “The reports of the games and fixtures published in The Salisbury Times’ have been of great assistance. It is the only means the club has, in these times, of acquainting their supporters of venues of the games.”

 

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