On the 7th October, Topsham RFC had the honour to host a delegation of rugby organisers and administrators from around the world. The visitors comprised the Organising Committee from the World Cup in Japan and the Bid Teams for RWC 2023 from Ireland, Italy, France and South Africa.

The Under-13 team from St Peter’s School, Lympstone helped to form an energetic welcoming reception. Topsham RFC committee members gave an insight into a grassroots rugby club and the importance of community relationships, emphasised by the vibrant Pop-up Play Café for the under 5’s which operates at Topsham RFC on weekdays.

Some of the club’s sponsors, Dart’s Farm and Godney Marquees, helped to arrange a “Taste of the West” experience with assistance from local producers Good Game, Pebblebed Wine and Proof of the Pudding amongst others. The delegation were also introduced to My First Rugby Ball, Exeter’s main RWC 2015 legacy project with the aspiration that it might be expanded into other countries.

After a delicious meal and visit from Mini (star of My First Rugby Ball), the delegates departed for Sandy Park, each accompanied by a selection of ales from another club sponsor, St Austell Brewery.