In a historic move, Bournville Rugby Club, from Midlands 1 West, will move its playing base from Bournville to the University of Birmingham for the forthcoming 2010/11 season.

At a Special General Meeting in June, over 70 members heard Chairman Ian Gay present the motion to move, which was approved after significant debate.

It was explained that extensive efforts had been made over the past three years to negotiate a long term lease from the Church to allow the development of new facilities for rugby, soccer and other sports. Despite the support of Bournville Village Trust, negotiations proved unproductive when it was confirmed that a stand-alone sports facility next to the pitches was not deliverable.

Ian Gay commented, “Having played at Rowheath for 100 years, the decision to relocate was not taken lightly. However, with increasing playing numbers, it was apparent that the club could not continue to grow using the existing facilities.”

Bournville Rugby Club will operate from the University’s main campus in Edgbaston from Saturday 4th September. The senior men's teams will be based at the Munrow Sports Centre and play on the University’s premier Bournbrook pitch and on the Metchley Park Road pitches. The club’s thriving Mini & Juniors Section will be based at the Pritchatts Park site on Sundays with use of an all weather pitch.

Rob Sigley, Bournville’s Director of Rugby added, “This represents a fantastic opportunity for the playing membership, from the Minis and Juniors through to the first team, who will be playing on probably the best rugby surface in the Midlands.”

For further information contact: Rob Sigley (Director of Rugby) or Alistair Blacklaws (PR Officer)