This gives the members the opportunity to meet up with friends and family to buy them a seasonal drink, while the staff have a deserved day off to spend with their families.
Boxing Day one of my favourite days of the year, rugby all the way. Hartlepool folk come out in their hundreds to either play or watch rugby as they shake off their over indulgence of the day before.
In the morning at West there is the Gingers V Stashers match which gives players old and young the chance to have a gentle run out to clear their heads. Fine weather brought a large turnout of both players and spectators. This year victors were the Gingers and the winner was social rugby.
The afternoon brings the main event, the annual clash between West Hartlepool and Hartlepool Rovers. This year it was West turn to play host.
The cold and windy conditions made flowing rugby difficult with West running out 41 – 8 victors. Referee Gareth Forman deserves praise for a fine performance in his first Boxing Day Derby match.
Tuesday saw me at Hartlepool Rovers Friarage ground for the annual match Between West Stags and Rovers Heughers .The winners being presented with the Bill Bowden Memorial Trophy .
Bill Served as club doctor, committee man and county representative for Rovers as well as being the doctor to the county teams for many years .
This year I had the pleasure of presenting the trophy to The Heughers captain after their 32 - 19 Victory.
Happy New Year!