TWO highly respected members of Falmouth Rugby Club were elected life members at the club's annual general meeting.

Retiring president David Chatterton and club stalwart Stuart Martin were both accorded the honour for their outstanding service to the club over a long period.

In his annual report, Mr Chatterton said that he thought that, perhaps, Falmouth did not realise the valuable contribution the club made to the community.

He said the club caters for people aged from seven to 70 and beyond and provides not only a sporting venue, but also a social base.

He congratulated those who dedicated their time to the younger sections with Peter Ould, John Body, and Mike Tregidgo looking after the minis and juniors and Arthur Williams encouraging the colts to play on a regular basis after a break of ten years. These sections are the life-blood of the club and should be nurtured and helped.

He said he was optimistic about the future for the club, but to move forward it must improve and increase its facilities and above all, attract players who are willing to train and learn in order that the club can climb back up the leagues.

The club was very fortunate, he said, in obtaining the services of Cornwall u20's coach Darren Chapman who will bring new ideas and enthusiasm to the club.

Mr Hugh Murton, secretary, said he was delighted that the club was able to field two senior sides and a colts team on a regular basis. That said, the club had to survive some nervous moments before securing their place in Cornwall League one.

He also emphasised that other clubs were now using the facilities, such as local football teams and members of Falmouth Gig Club.

"We look forward to the future with optimism," said Mr Murton. "The potential that exists here is considerable and will only be fully realised if the club has more facilities to offer the town.

"if it is once more possible that the club could move to a site containing two pitches, if such a move succeeds, we will be able to provide even more training facilities for other sports in the community."

The playing record was - Ist XV p32, w13, l19, pts for 542, pts against 903. 62 players appeared in the team and top points scorer was Arty Williams with 104.

2nd XV p36, w10, l26, pts for 329, pts against 849. 89 players appeared in the team.

Trophies were warded to: Ist XV player of year, Kevin Wilkes; sportsman of year, Ken Nancholas; club captain, Kevin Wilkes; 2nd XV clubman of year, David Vincent; 2nd XV most improved player, Tom Birmingham; clubman of year, Mike Morris; club colours: Adrian Watt.

Training began on June 19 and will continue next Wednesday, June 26, but thereafter from July training will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Officers elected were: President, Mr C Mulcahy; hon secretary, Mr H Murton; hon treasurer, Mr C Woodhead; hon Ist XV team secretary, (tba); hon 2nd XV team secretary, Mr D Tuffrey; hon fixture secretary, Mr G Wilkes; hon solicitor, Mr J Lowry; accountant, C Bowyer.