GORTON STREET GAZETTE Extracts from the Eccles RFC committee minute books: 1952 - 70 years ago Before the meeting commenced, the members stood in memory of King George VI who had died on 6th Feb., The dance which should have taken place on 15th Feb at the Broadway Cinema's Cafe ( now Morrisons car park in Eccles) had been postponed to March 7th. - Beer prices, following an increase in Messers W. Youngers' prices for beer, the committee decided to increase the price of beer sold in the club as follows - beer, 1 pint - !/5d shandy, 1 pint - 1/1d as from 18th Feb. - It was agreed that a letter be sent to the County Representative requesting an extension of the playing season due to the number of cancelled matches (frozen pitches). The Eccles Journal reported on 29th Feb., "After playing only one game in the last 5 weeks, Eccles resumed their fixtures with a visit to Hightown (Liverpool) on Sat." Eccles 1stXV lost 12 - 11. -Mr. Waller (player), reported that the bath on Sat. was cold. The groundsman to be requested to turn the water on just before half time. 1962 - 60 years ago Eccles Journal reports another inclement weather story “ Eccles v Prestwich - Both sides fought a losing battle with the weather, the match was abandoned after 25 mins. play. The mist, which had been gathering all morning, eventually descended like a blanket, reducing visibility to about 25 yards. Conditions rapidly became farcical, high kicks being a source of danger to both attacker and defender, since the ball was immediately lost to view. The game ended with no score.” 1972 - 50 years ago invitations to sevens competitions, Colts - Broughton Park accepted, Buxton not this time. Men - Bowdon accepted, Oldham not this time. During Feb. the committee also discussed - Griffon competition, building repairs, club plaques, Lancs. County Cup competition, payment of bills, fencing, refreshments, Easter Tour, selection, training, facilities at other clubs, booking coaches (motorised) and replenishing the First Aid box. Committee man Ray Cook was assigned to do this. Ray, still a faithful supporter of our club, says it was probably because he'd used it more than anybody else ! Sheila Thomas // Eccles RFC Historian (with Chris Gaffey Chipping in)
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