Blues celebrate centenary

Speaking at Ringmer's Centenary Dinner on Friday, Richard Soan, the club chairman, welcomed the many former players and officials along with guests from the Sussex County FA, Ringmer Parish Council, the Football Association and representatives from Ringmer Stoolball Club and Ringmer Cricket Club and the club's sponsors, Hodges and Marten and Independent Roofing Supplies.

Among the former players, he highlighted the achievements of David Grimes, Peter Haigh, Andy Tasker and Peter Crees as past winners of the club's Player of the Year award, and Alan Tasker and Mick Keeley from the 1970-71 championship winning side.

That side is, of course, best remembered for their exploits under Pat Francis in reaching the first round proper of the FA Cup before losing to Colchester United.

Soan also paid tribute to the contribution of Chris Christoff, Stan Williams, Brian Smith and John McWhirter through many year's service as club officials.

Speaking of his time as first team manager, Pat Francis paid tribute to fellow guest Brian Smith for his valuable help and, in an era when players were not paid, he recalled that the 1970-71 side received 5 gift vouchers for the now defunct Hannington's store in Brighton as reward for their FA Cup exploits and for winning the Division One Championship.

Bob Peters, the chairman of Ringmer Parish Council, said the council appreciated all the club had done for the village over many years.

During the evening Soan made a special presentation to Cyril Tasker, Ringmer's longest surviving supporter. Unfortunately he was not well enough to attend so the gift was collected on his behalf by his daughter, Sheila Pitts, the chairperson of the Ringmer Stoolball Club.

He also presented a bouquet of flowers to Irene Haigh in recognition of many years of tireless work on behalf of the club by herself and her husband.

To mark its centenary the club was presented with a commemorative plaque by Mike Appleby on behalf of the Football Association.