This week’s note starts with the sad news of the passing of the all-round club legend Chris Basley. Anyone who ever came to a club lunch will know Chris ‘Basher’ Basley and over the next few weeks whenever we gather many tales will be told about his exploits over the years which are probably best not put to print and a glass or two of his favourite tipple of red wine will be raised in his memory. Chris was a funny, kind and generous man and we send our condolences to all his family and friends.

On Saturday the men’s first had an agonisingly close game away at Haywards Heath losing 23 – 22 after a try was disallowed. The Beef lost away at Brighton. On Friday night the women's team headed to Sussex University for a friendly under the lights on their 4G pitch. With a mixed 1s and 2s team, it was a great opportunity for players to get game time and for the team to try out some of their moves. A social with the Sussex University players after the game continued to build our ties with the team.

This weekend the Men’s first host Weybridge Vandals, the beef travel up to Uckfield and on Sunday the women host Havant. We will also be showing all the Autumn Internationals.

There will be a club lunch before the game on Saturday, meal served at 12:30. Main course of Beef Bourguignon with mashed potatoes or homemade Genovese pesto pasta. Dessert is Eton Mess or a cheeseboard for £15. Kid’s menu of chicken nuggets & chips followed by ice cream is also available for £6. To book contact Dean on dean@wantleymanor.com or on 07824700751 by Thursday lunchtime.

After last week’s reminder to keep the kit store tidy it was a disappointment to hear that on Sunday evening not only was all the kit just dumped back into the store, but the store was left with the door open and lock missing. This meant Graeme had to come out late on Sunday evening to secure it. This is another request to members to please respect the club’s equipment and facilities as the cost to repair or replace equipment is considerable.

Thank you to Nicholas James Property who have sponsored our Under 11s and are shirt sponsors for the Mini & Youth teams for the 24/25 season. Founded in 2018 by Directors, James Perry and Nick Daley, Nicholas James has quickly become known as one of the leading residential sales and lettings agents in Brighton & Hove. As the brand grew, so did their area, and they have sold and let property across Sussex from their office in Hove using innovative technology and good old-fashioned customer service. If you're looking to buy, sell, rent, or let - check them out!

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Geraldine