Bishop Auckland Rugby Club proudly marks a major milestone this weekend (2nd and 3rd May 2026) as it celebrates its 50th Anniversary season, launching a month of commemorative events that honour the club’s history, volunteers, players and wider community. The Mayor was in attendance to see the 50th Anniversary Celebrations start, recognising the club’s 50 years of sporting achievement, community spirit and service to Bishop Auckland.
Sam Zair Mayor of Bishop Auckland said: “As Bishop Auckland Rugby Club celebrates its golden anniversary, it is clear that their focus remains firmly on the future — continuing to nurture young players, support volunteers and provide a welcoming, inclusive sporting environment for generations to come. I wish them every success for the next 50 years.”
Saturday’s celebrations centred on two special matches that reflect both the club’s heritage and its future. A much-anticipated inter‑club veterans’ match saw Taffs Reds take on Daves Blues, bringing together former players in a fitting tribute to five decades of rugby in the town. Over 40 vets came together on the day, with Taffs Reds taking the win.
The full match report is available on the Bishop Auckland Rugby Club website.
Gwyn (Taff) Evans, Minis Chairman said:
“This game is about fun and honouring the last 50 years of this great club. We tried to get as close to 50 club members on the field to celebrate this golden anniversary celebrating our club. supporters turned out on mass too. Rugby is always the winner – it’s not just about the match it is about the connections and friendships off the field, 50 years of community and a giant rugby family. We hope that the club grows as much in the next 50 years.”
The afternoon marked a poignant moment for the club, as Coach Mark Binns took charge of his final match after 15 years of dedicated coaching service. The Bishop Auckland First XVI face the Durham County Presidents selection in a celebratory fixture acknowledging Mark’s outstanding contribution both on and off the pitch.
To top the weekend off, after being selected to represent Durham County under 20s squad, two of the 1st Team Players, James Holliday and Joel Butler have been invited to the North Of England Assessment Day on 10th May, at Keighly for the first stage of final sections for the squad selections for the divisional Festivals in June.
John Walker, the clubs first ever captain said:
“This club has grown to something incredible over the last 50 years, it brings people from all walks of life together as an extended family. I have been honoured to be part of the club from the very beginning, and I was still coaching up until a couple of years ago, and my final set of lads are now moving to senior colts which makes me very proud. We have fantastic teams of all age grades, and are trailblazers for women’s rugby. Today saw us celebrate with two great games, and tonight we will be rocking the place with the celebrated North East Rock Choir, for a feel good family celebration”.
Today’s matches officially kick‑start of a month of anniversary celebrations, designed to bring together players past and present, families, supporters and the wider community:
- Sunday 3rd May brings is all about the ladies, with a dedicated Ladies’ Day where the club will be filled with glitz and glam.
- Next weekend: (9th May) is the Minis and Juniors presentation, recognising the club’s youngest players, where across the day over 750 will be at the club across the day to celebrate the future of the club with age 3-19 years celebrated.
- The month is rounded off with the Seniors presentation and the 50th Anniversary Dinner, bringing the celebrations to a close in style.
Over the past 50 years, Bishop Auckland Rugby Club has played a vital role in developing talent and fostering a lifelong love of rugby. Among its notable alumni are Alec Clarey, who progressed to professional rugby with Saracens, and Joe Davies. Both players took their very first steps into the sport at Bishop Auckland Rugby Club, highlighting the strength of the club’s grassroots development.
