The grassroots club has a long and proud history and is currently providing rugby for senior, youth and junior teams. Chairman Harry Moore explained: “Ipswich YM is also very much a community hub used by charities and other groups for meetings and events in addition to the provision of rugby for all age groups.”
The 15-year lease extension at The Street, Rushmere Road, was agreed by the club and site owners Ipswich Borough Council, and Mr Moore said: “We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Council and the extension of the lease will allow the club to continue to thrive well past our club centenary in 2025. We already have excellent facilities, however we do have plans that will bring the whole of the club together with the erection of a lean-to over a new patio area. This work will commence in late June marking the annual NatWest-sponsored Rugby Force day.”
But, firstly, the club will be hosting ‘The KBB Centre Grass Roots Minis Festival’ on Sunday 8th March when more than 500 boys and girls aged six to 12 years will come from neighbouring clubs to take part in a series of games. “If it is anything like last year’s event the day will be a great success and the youngsters who take part will have a really enjoyable day.”
Ipswich Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Bryony Rudkin, said: “We enjoy a positive partnership with Ipswich YM, which is one of the most important and well-established sports clubs in Suffolk. We share their goal of encouraging more young people into sport and are pleased that extending this lease gives them the stability and confidence to move forward.”
Caption: From left: Nick Bentley, president of Ipswich YM, Councillor Bryony Rudkin, club chairman Harry Moore and Council sports manager Andy Wilesmith
For further comment:
Cllr Bryony Rudkin, tel: 07703 773625
Cllr Ian Fisher, opposition Conservative Group Leader, tel: 07702 038029
Cllr Inga Lockington, opposition Liberal Democrat Group Leader, tel: 01473 213444
Issued by the IBC press office, tel: 07736 826104
