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Having taken ownership of Dam Park Stadium in September, the Directors of Ayr Rugby Club have been busy preparing the site for use. Having been poorly maintained for some time the club been clearing the site, tidying the grounds and preparing the grass park for Rugby. This involves increasing the size of the existing football pitch which has meant removing some of the athletics facilities including the long jump, pole vault, shot put and hammer/discuss throwing cage. The athletics track however remains and will be used for training.

Last month we put out an appeal to find a new home for the 30ft high Hammer & Discuss throwing safety cage which had been dismantled and left lying for a couple of years. After research from our Chairman and intrepid historian, Brian Williamson it was uncovered that this was no ordinary throwing cage but the actual equipment used by world class athletes in the 2012 London Olympic Games and

2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. It ended up at Dam Park in 2015 as part of the Commonwealth Games Legacy. It is looking likely that it is going to be rescued and restored by the Scottish Athletics organisation.

This month we are launching a new appeal to find a home for the iconic Dam Park goalposts. Not only has the Dam Park football pitch been home to countless junior cup battles and cup finals, but it also hosted an interesting charity match which took place in the mid’ seventies between the Scotland and England “old crocks.” Organised by local legend Johnny Hubbard, the team list featured England World Cup winners Bobby Charlton and Gordon Banks and Billy McNeill, Jim Baxter and John Greig for Scotland. As a last-minute stand-in George McLean of Ayr was replaced by the “Maggie May” singing sensation Rod Stewart who had to be smuggled in a side entrance in a plumbers van. Unfortunately, the Scottish Football Association had forgotten to supply strips for the match and a hurried last-minute call to Ibrox resulted in the Rangers first team kit of the day being delivered in time for the kick-off. Eyebrows were raised as Billy McNeill and Rod Stewart ran out at Dam Park wearing the famous blue Rangers strip.

If you are a community club or organisation who would like to be considered to receive the Dam Park football posts please email media@ayrrugbyclub.co.uk

News Item

Ayr Rugby Club kick single use cups into touch!

In a first for a Scottish Rugby Club, Ayr have gone “green” and disposed of single use plastic cups in favour of reusable STACK-CUP’s. The system is already established in stadiums, festivals and major events across the country. The benefits are many and include removing the need for single use disposable plastic cups, cup carriers and trays. The cups are tested to be reused 500 times and have a clever stackable system where people can carry up to 8 pints with relative ease.

Ayr Rugby Club, Chairman, Brian Williamson said,

“I first saw this system at Newcastle Falcons, then at the SEC in Glasgow. The majority of the grounds at Millbrae are licensed, as a club we were spending thousands of pounds every year on single use plastic cups which are bad for the environment, flimsy, difficult to carry and create a lot of waste. As part of Ayr Rugby Club’s environmental policy to eliminate all “avoidable plastic waste” we investigated different options and STACK CUP’s stood out.”

The reusable cups involve paying an initial £1 deposit which is returned when you are ready to leave and return the cup although some people may choose to take the branded cup home as a souvenir from their day at Ayr Rugby Club.

Club sponsor, Davie Cowan of the Tam O’Shanter Inn, liked the idea so much he offered to sponsor the new cups which will make their first appearance this Friday when the Ayrshire Bulls play Boroughmuir at home. The cups are emblazoned with the Ayr Rugby Club logo, the Ayrshire Bulls logo and Tam O’Shanter Inn’s logo along with the quip “Taxi to the Tammy” where Ayr Rugby Club members can enjoy a 10% discount on drinks. (on presentation of valid membership card or fanbase app)

In 1969, the Ayr Rugby Club embarked on an exciting and momentous journey as they organised their very first golf outing. This event marked a significant milestone in the club’s history, one that would be fondly remembered for years to come.

The members of Ayr Rugby Club, known for their passion and dedication to the sport of rugby, decided to take a break from the rugby pitch and venture into the world of golf.

This inaugural golf outing was more than just a game; it was an opportunity for club members to strengthen their bonds, build lasting friendships, and forge a sense of unity that would continue to define Ayr Rugby Club’s spirit in the years to come. It was a day of laughter, friendly competition, and shared experiences that extended beyond the rugby field.

Les McCall

Ian McHarg Howard Latham David Logan David Ancell Eddie Ecrepont

Doug Hollingworth Ernie Ramsay Charlie Jack Brian Boucher-Myers Ernie Finnie

Stewart Stobie Grier Murray Johnny Miller Barry Holland

Albert Bartlett, the UK’s leading producer of potato products & No.1 fresh potato brand, has announced the extension of their partnership with Ayr Rugby  Club to become shirt sponsors across all teams and age groups from kids all the way up to the Ayrshire Bulls.  Both the Albert Bartlett & Scotty Brand logos appear on the new kit as part of the new multi-year agreement.

The sponsorship by the fourth-generation family-owned company of Ayr Rugby Club reflects the importance that the area plays in their operations. For over forty years Albert Bartlett has worked with farmers in the rich potato-growing area of Ayrshire. The mild climate and light coastal soil paired with generations of expertise and traditional farming methods are the recipe for their finest and tastiest potatoes.  The pairing also allows both organisations to work together in the promotion of healthy eating and to promote career opportunities within the food sector.

The partnership also reflects the shared values of both organisations, Ayr Rugby Cub has built a hugely successful club that is truly integrated into the local community and is working across the local area to develop the game at all levels.

Brand and Marketing Director at Albert Bartlett, John Hicks, said: “Albert Bartlett have been working with the farming sector in Ayrshire for most of our history and it is a hugely important part of our business.  We are therefore delighted to evolve our partnership with Ayr Rugby, the Club are a central part of the Ayrshire community and their values and vision for how they build on that are hugely aligned with how we want to impact the communities that we operate within, we are therefore excited to see the Club develop in the coming years.”

General manager at Ayrshire Bulls, Graeme Ferguson, said: “We are fortunate to have some fantastic sponsors that have supported our Club for a sustained period of time.  Albert Bartlett has been one of them and we are delighted to elevate their engagement with the club.  Both organisations have the Ayrshire community at heart and their support and commitment play an important part in allowing us to continue to build our plans across the Club from grassroots coaching to the high-level Ayrshire Bulls.

It is a very exciting time at Ayr Rugby Club with plans recently released for a multi-million pound makeover of our famous Millbrae home along with the acquisition of Dam Park Stadium in the town. Having a sponsor such as Albert Bartlett buy into our vision is a real statement of intent and we are very much looking forward to working closely with them over the next few years.”

The picture above is a unique ‘family photo’ capturing the various playing sections representing the club every week – Mini Rugby (Adam Ferguson), Youth Boys (Ryan Steven), Youth Girls (Brodie McKenzie), Ladies Rugby (Louise McLaughlan), Senior Men (Cam Reece), and The Ayrshire Bulls (Blair Macpherson). Also Club President Drew Young, John Hicks from Albert Bartlett and Graeme Ferguson, General Manager of Ayrshire Bulls.

Albert Bartlett’s website: https://www.albertbartlett.co.uk/

Ritchie Marshall, Founder & CEO of Cahonas Scotland received a cheque for £1535.15 from Euan Hamilton and Brian Williamson from Ayr Rugby Club following the recent “Dash of Pink” event in conjunction with Ayr United.

Cahonas Scotland raises awareness of Testicular Cancer, advises on self-checking and offers support to sufferers.

More information can be found here https://www.cahonasscotland.org/

Ayr Rugby Club Chairman – Brian Williamson, talking to That’s TV about the recent purchase of Dam Park Stadium.

Experience every moment live at Millbrae

Who is going to win the World Cup? Join us at Millbrae to find out as we will be showing the world cup final on our big screens at the clubhouse.

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Press Release
Thursday, 7th September 2023
Ayr Rugby Football Club, Millbrae, Alloway, Ayr, KA74PJ

Ayr Rugby Club take over Dam Park Stadium

Ayr Rugby Football Club, one of Ayrshire’s most significant sporting institutions, has announced the purchase of Dam Park Stadium from South Ayrshire Council.

The Club, which recently became a charity, delivers a wide range of activities, enabling community involvement in a variety of settings and levels. The purchase of Dam Park will strengthen the ability of the club to reach out further and act as a hub for sporting and community activities.

The fifteen acres site has a grass playing pitch surrounded by an eight-lane running track and the pavilion comprises five changing rooms, two toilet and shower blocks and seating for 478 spectators. Previously Dam Park was used for athletics coaching and football events but has also accommodated music festivals and dog trials.

The facility became surplus to requirements when South Ayrshire Council built the new £8.5 million Riverside Sports Arena which was opened in February 2023.

Ayr Rugby Club Chairman, Brian Williamson, said:

“The purchase of Dam Park is part of our long-term strategy to provide excellent sporting and community facilities for the town of Ayr. Our home ground Millbrae is about to be significantly upgraded, in the short-term Dam Park will provide an extra playing pitch when this work commences and much needed additional training facilities for the many teams and age groups we support.”

The finance to purchase Dam Park Stadium was provided through “The Macdonald Legacy” which was set up by Alan Macdonald, to honour his son, former player, Barry Macdonald who died suddenly in 2020. The Macdonald family were long-term sponsors of Ayr Rugby Club with the Dawn company logo emblazoned on the kit for the past two decades.

Speaking of the legacy, Brian Williamson, said:

“The purchase of Dam Park Stadium has only been made possible by the funding provided from the Macdonald Legacy. I speak on behalf of the members and Directors of Ayr Rugby Football Club in thanking Mr Macdonald for the generosity, support and guidance given throughout the purchasing process.”

Dam Park Stadium will soon see the football posts replaced by rugby posts and the ground will become a hive of activity once again.

If you’re looking for a fantastic way to kick off your week with some exercise and camaraderie, look no further than Walking Rugby. Every Monday from 10-11 am, this unique and inclusive sporting activity takes place at Millbrae, offering a fun and engaging way for people of all ages to stay active and socialise.

Walking Rugby is a modified version of the traditional game, designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. It’s perfect for those who may have physical limitations or haven’t played rugby before but want to enjoy the spirit of the game.

One of the best aspects of Walking Rugby at Millbrae is the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Participants come from all walks of life, to form a diverse and friendly community that makes newcomers feel right at home. Whether you’re a rugby enthusiast or a complete beginner, you’ll find a warm and supportive group ready to help you enjoy the game.

So, why should you consider joining the Millbrae Walking Rugby community? Here are a few compelling reasons:

1. Stay Active: Walking Rugby is an excellent way to stay active and improve your fitness levels, all while having fun.
2. Inclusivity: People of all ages and abilities are welcome, making it a sport that truly brings the community together.
3. Social Connection: Make new friends and enjoy the camaraderie of a supportive and friendly group.
4. Stress Relief: The game offers a chance to relieve stress and improve your mental well-being.
5. Scenic Setting: Millbrae’s beautiful location provides the perfect backdrop for a morning of outdoor activity.
6. Bacon Rolls and Tea: After the game, all participants socialise over a cup of tea and a bacon roll.

If you would like to come along, please email: media@ayrrugbyclub.co.uk