Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC

Newcastle Rugby Club was formed in the autumn of 1947 as an offshoot of Stoke-On-Trent R.F.C to accommodate the overwhelming number of players returning to the game after the 2nd World War.

With the guidance and financial assistance from the Stoke Club, a meeting was called at the Guildhall in Newcastle-Under-Lyme during November 1947 and the new club was inaugurated with the name of “Newcastle (Staffs) Rugby Union Football Club”.

Early games were played on a field on the banks of the River Trent at Trentham, with changing accommodation provided at a nearby school. After the first few weeks an agreement was drawn up with the Newcastle Borough Council and a pitch was leased at the local authority playing fields at Roe Lane, Clayton. “Beestons Vaults” in Newcastle town centre became the headquarters for post match activities.

In 1952 Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC split apart from the Stoke Club to become independent and in 1954 the council offered a lease on the present ground at Lilleshall Road, Clayton. It was during 1955 that the club moved to the new ground and the original clubhouse erected.

The Club moved from strength to strength and the facilities have gone through numerous improvements and this has included the additional pitch being obtained.

The Club looks for continual improvements and has a very active committee. Over the years the club house has been developed to include a lounge area, additional changing facilities and is second to non for it’s freindly social atmosphere.

The Club’s success in introducing Rugby to the local youngsters is reflected in the size of the very successful mini & junior section. There are in excess of 270 children ranging in ages from 6 to 17 who play rugby at Newcastle and each team has a qualified volunteer coach to progress them through the season.