WELLINGTON RFC, one of the oldest rugby clubs in the world, was formed in 1874 by Harry Fox, doyen of the family that were instrumental in shaping the town as we know it today, writes club secretary Ashley Colman.

The first game versus Taunton Independent College took place on 12th December 1874, with the club moving to its present Athletic Ground home in Coram’s Lane in 1877.

The club flourished and games were played against the Maoris in 1888 and gained a famous draw against the celebrated Newport team in 1894.

The club has produced six internationals, numerous county players and is proud that many have gone on to represent sides such as Bath, Northampton, and Richmond, with perhaps the most notable being H T Gamlin who played for England on 15 occasions and represented Somerset over 50 times.

The First World war exacted a heavy toll with 15 out of the 49 enlisted members losing their lives. Their names sit proudly on the back of the club's specially designed shirt to mark this year’s sesquicentennial (150th) celebrations.

Following the Second World War, where a further 10 players were lost, the club although initially struggling, recovered and flourished with the centenary season in 1974 a highlight; in fact many current members have fond memories of that time.

Wellington has a proud tradition of not just excelling on the field but continually moving with the times be it updating the ground/facilities but also being at the forefront of all that is good about our wonderful game.

As we approach our Gala Celebrations, Harry Fox would be so proud to see that the club formed in an office of his Fox’s Factory is thriving both on and off the field. We have a superb Mini and Junior section that regularly provide the majority of the 1st XV, and a newly formed Ladies team, the Vixens.

And as Harry intended, we are firmly at the heart of our wonderful Wellington Community. We invite everyone to join us on the 24th to 27th of April at the Athletic ground. Here’s to the next 150 years!