Uckfield at the heart of its community
Uckfield Rugby Club in Sussex is a club that does a huge amount for the local community.
The club hosts several big events each year which places them firmly in the heart of Uckfield. These include Proms on the Pitch, a collaboration with several local community arts organisations, and Davina McCall’s Big Sussex Bike Ride, which starts and finishes at the club and raises funds for sick babies and children.
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The scheme, headed up Heidi Greenwood and supported by volunteers from all sections of the club, this year cooked a two-course meal for 100 people, all delivered on Christmas Day across Uckfield, Chailey, Crowborough, Lewes, Nutley, and Buxted.
Gordon Buckland, Chairman, said: “We have reflected on our Christmas initiative and are really proud of the club’s unwavering commitment to community service.
“There were so many people who contributed, including Waitrose Community Grant who generously funded the meals. Special mentions must go to Liam Miller, Adam Palmer, and Adam Cornford, current and former players, who added a touch of sweetness with chocolates, biscuits, poinsettias, and gifts for children, and Sue Newell's homemade mince pies were a delightful addition to our care packages. We also had members acting as a team of cheerful Christmas delivery elves which gave companionship and a ray of hope to our recipients.”
As well as the club-wide initiatives, Uckfield has a group, known as 'The Founding Fathers,' dedicated to raising money for local charities.
Buckland said: "Whether it's hosting a BBQ at a minis training session or running a stand at one of our events, members are always actively involved. The profits from these activities are added to the group's fund and then distributed to support those in need within the local community."
“Uckfield Rugby Club isn’t just a sports club; it’s a cornerstone of our local community. Looking ahead, we are excited about how we can help our community with the events planned for this year. We also intend to expand our clubhouse to further cement our club as a force in helping and collaborating with our local community.”
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