Let's make history...
Aylesbury Rugby Football Club Book ‘Celebrating 100 Years’ 1931-2031
Peter is bringing his book detailing the history of Aylesbury Rugby Football Club up to date for the centenary in 2031. He needs your help and is looking for any of the following…
- Men’s 1st Team photos for the following Seasons: 79/80, 86/87, 89/90, 91/92, 92/93, 94/95, 95/96, 98/99, 99/00, 2000 to 2005, 2009 to 2013, 16/17, 18 to 24 with names if possible.
- Women’s 1st Team photos for any year with names if possible.
- Juniors and Minis team/squad photos for any year with names if possible.
- AGM Calling notices and minutes 07, 08 & 09.
Please send to Peter Bannard email arfchistory@gmail.com
Who can help Peter?
Hi Everyone,
My name is Peter Bannard, I wrote and published with the Clubs help a limited amount of books of the History of ARFC from 1931 to 2001.
Following the increase of members asking to purchase a copy of the book and following my retirement, I have agreed to rewrite/update to book to take it up to our centenary year in 2031.
I now require/need your help with regards to information, team photos with names, event details etc from members across the whole club to include the Seniors, Youth Section and the Women’s Section.
If you have any of the mentioned that you think should be documented in the book, please can you contact me and send your photos, stories etc to: arfchistory@gmail.com
Many thanks for reading my post/message.
Regards
Peter👍🏉📕✍
86 Years ago today on 14 September we should have opened our first ground but didn't...
Today on the 14th September - 86 years ago, marks the day that our first ground: Baggett's Field on the Buckingham Rd should have been opened, but due to World War II was delayed until 30th September 1939.
In 1938 a Freehold plot of land on Buckingham Road behind the New Zealand Pub was purchased primarily due to the initiative of Mr. Stanley Baggett. The RFU granted a loan of £900 to facilitate the purchase and the land became known as Baggett’s Field.
The outbreak of war in 1939 coincided with the ground's opening on Thursday 14th September of that year. The war delayed the construction of a clubhouse and postponed the first match. A commemorative match between East Midlands and the Chairman’s XV was cancelled. The scheduled kick-off time was 5:45 pm, with an admission charge of 6d (2½ pence).
Baggets Field entrance is now 205 Buckingham Road
The new ground was opened with a game against Middlesex Hospital Rugby Club on September 30th 1939 reported by the Bucks Herald. Aylesbury won 6-6 (one goal and one penalty goal vs. two tries). The team included last year's players, a few new members and local men on short leave from the forces. The game was officiated by Ron Ostler who joined the Club in 1939. The game was thoroughly enjoyed by a good crowd who appeared to be very much interested in the imposing 40ft high goal posts.
Article authored by Peter Bannard - Our Club historian
A Short History of Aylesbury Rugby Football Club
Conception
Founded on 1st September 1931, Aylesbury Rugby Football Club owes its existence to a group of dedicated individuals: Dr. Norman Black, Colonel Oscar Viney, Stanley Baggett, and Percy Black. Their combined efforts laid the foundation for a club steeped in community spirit and a passion for the game of rugby.
Early Years and Baggett's Field
In its formative years, the club achieved a significant milestone with the purchase of land on Buckingham Road. This acquisition was made possible through a loan from the Rugby Football Union (RFU). By 1939, the ground was officially opened and became known as Baggett's Field, honouring Stanley Baggett for his contributions. To initiate the clubhouse, the club purchased a Nissen Hut, providing members with a modest yet functional space for camaraderie and after games celebrations.
Expansion and Growth
The search for a larger, more suitable venue culminated in a significant development in 1962. Seventeen acres of plum orchard in Western Turville were acquired, marking a new chapter in the club's history. This new site was officially opened in 1966, complete with a purpose-built clubhouse, reflecting the club's ambition and growing membership. A spectators' stand was added in 1968, enhancing the experience of watching rugby and cementing the site as a regional hub for the sport.
Ostler’s Field
A pivotal moment came in 1970, when the ground was renamed Ostler’s Field, in honour of Ron Ostler, recognising his invaluable contributions to the club. This renaming symbolised the club's deep respect for the individuals who shaped its identity and success over the decades.
Aylesbury Rugby Football Club has grown from humble beginnings to become a cornerstone of its community, fostering a love of rugby and a sense of belonging that transcends generations. With each milestone, the club honours its rich heritage while looking forward to the future with unwavering enthusiasm. It is an outstanding example of a great grassroots community rugby club.
