On Wednesday 20th April, Wymondham Rugby Club entertained over 400 guests at their annual players’ dinner.

The event, which is one of the highlights in Norfolk’s sporting calendar, was the Club’s 16th annual dinner. The evening saw guests enjoy a drinks reception, followed by a sumptuous three course dinner, including lamb shanks and locally produced East Anglian cheeses, prepared by celebrity chef, Chris Coubrough and his team from the Flying Kiwi Inns.

The Club were also delighted to welcome veteran player and former All Blacks captain, Sean Fitzpatrick, as their guest speaker for the evening.

An icon of New Zealand rugby and recipient of New Zealand’s prestigious Order of Merit, which was presented to him by then Governor of New Zealand Sir Michael Hardie Boys in 1997, Fitzpatrick will forever be remembered as captain of the most successful All Blacks team in the history of the game. He now uses his remarkable and inspirational leadership and team skills in running his motivational speaking business.

Previous guest speakers have included Martin Corry, Will Greenwood and Jason Leonard, so the Club were delighted to be able to welcome another such high profile veteran of the game to entertain guests for the evening. 

Leathes Prior were once again headline sponsors for the event and an auction of fantastic lots, including a signed All Blacks Shirt and a golfing experience with Bryan Gunn, ensured that the evening raised vital funds for the for the ongoing success of the Club. Furthermore, a collection in aid of Rugby for Rwanda was also held on the night and a staggering £1400 was raised for this worthwhile charity. 

Softley Events, were also delighted to sponsor the evening for a third year and were responsible for the organisation and planning for the event, including ticket sales and catering.

Sarah Softley, Director of Softley Events, said:

“Softley Events are delighted to be able to support this prestigious and important event in the county’s annual calendar. It is a tremendous honour and a real pleasure to continue to support Wymondham Rugby Club and we are obviously extremely pleased that it was such a successful and memorable evening for our guests”.