Barnes Big Build
Barnes RFC are intent on improving the lives of youngsters and families in their community.
They raised more than £40,000 over the past 12 months in a variety of ways, from people running marathons, to their own Barnes RFC Come Dine With Me experience, and of course the generosity of members from across the whole club. Then, on Saturday 27th August, they set about building a children’s play area and trim trail around the Barn Elms Sports Trust pitches opposite their clubhouse in Queen Elizabeth Walk in Barnes.
No fewer than 60 people from across the club rolled up their sleeves and, under the watchful eyes of a team from Fusion Community Initiatives, who focus on teambuilding with social impact, they assembled all of the equipment, which was made from reclaimed wood.
It was like one of those TV programmes where a huge team turns an environment around within 24 hours and the workers were rewarded for their efforts with a well-earned celebratory barbecue.
Barnes RFC chair, Michael Whitfield, said: "I think there was a bit of charity fatigue after the pandemic but over this last year I have been delighted with the efforts of so many Barnes rugby folks that have made this happen, brilliantly led by Adam Libbey and his merry men, whose previous brainchild was the Big Lift in 2020. Once again the club has dug deep and, in particular, the support from our Minis and Juniors section has been spectacular. What a great curtain raiser for the season ahead - I can't wait for it to start!"
