GORTON STREET GAZETTE “1997 Centenary Match” Extracts from the Eccles RFC committee minute books: 50 years ago. 1972. 24th April, 1972 - Easter Monday, Eccles played the Welsh touring team, Seven Sisters. A letter of thanks had been received from the tourists from Neath, West Glamorgan. The local coal pit owner, Evan Evans-Bevan, had named the colliery after his seven daughters in 1872. The Eccles committee observed that, "despite one or two minor setbacks, the day had been a great success.” The previous week it was noted in the minute book regarding arrangements for the Easter Touring team. Mr. R. Erlston (bar secretary) said that he would ensure that the bar was sufficiently well stocked. A firm order for catering for both Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday had been made by Mr. D. Brown (secretary) as it was a busy weekend for fixtures: 1st April - Eccles 1st XV v Prestwich; Eccles 3rd XV v Prestwich; Colts XV v Widnes. A. G. M. 5th June, 1972 3rd April (Easter Monday) - Eccles v Seven Sisters. The Colts once again, had a very good season - played 31, won 23, lost 8. Eccles 1st XV playing record - played 46, won 22, lost 22, drawn 2. In the Griffin plaque competition Eccles had again reached the final, only to lose 21-4 against Didsbury Toc H. Chairman Ron Pennington thanked Ray Cook, serving on the Social committee, for "his efforts entertaining us and for the money he has raised. I trust he will continue the good work.” Well done Ray, still supporting the club on Saturday afternoons. 25 years ago. 1997. Three main events were held to celebrate the Centenary season in 1997: The Centenary match - between the Exiles and Eccles 40s featured a few familiar names from the two teams - Pickersgill, Dore, Wilkinson, Bent, Nicholls, Erlston, Leigh, Jones, Fritton, Griffiths, Sulway. The Centenary Dinner - 9th May, 1997. Invited guests included Phil Bennett OBE (29 Welsh caps, captaining the side to 2 triple crowns and a grand slam), Brian Leigh (Chairman of the Manchester District Referees Society, Secretary of Lancs County RFC) and Dr. Terry Crystal (England team doctor). The Centenary Dinner Dance - held on the 14th June, 1997.
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