Past and present club members, coaches and players alike all gathered at the Moot Hall in Colchester's Town Hall to celebrate 90 years of Colchester RFC on Friday.

With a delicious three course dinner served by excellent caterers Stock & Bailey and the bar manned by Claire Seller all the foundations were set for a great evening.

As people started to arrive, guests of the President Andrew Wadling gathered in the Mayor's Parlour before the dinner began. It was here the evening's speakers, Danny Crates and Griff Rhys Jones first met with VPs and the executive committee from CRFC.

The occasion was opened with grace given by Bishop Roger Morris and in an unexpected turn of events Colchester MP Will Quince sang "Cwm Rhondda" (for us English folk, better known as Bread of Heaven) in honour of our Welsh guests who sacrificed watching the France Wales Six Nations game to be at the dinner!

As the wine flowed and dinner was served the atmosphere in the Moot Hall was electric as guests reminisced on their fond memories at Colchester RFC.

President Andy Wadling was the first to make a speech and credited the club on it's excellent youth section and successful senior season last year which saw all 4 senior sides promoted- the first time in English rugby history.

The baton was then passed to John Phoenix, Chairman of Eastern Counties Rugby who praised Colchester on its inclusive philosophy, and commended the club on its ability to maintain a family friendly, hospitable environment despite the club's huge size. He noted that Colchester RFC should be used as a blueprint for any club wishing to expand as we prove it is possible to be big and all embracing at the same time.

Following on from this, Griff Rhys Jones recalled his favourite memories of Essex, in particular his time playing rugby with our very own Ross Cowie. Griff had the entire hall laughing as he told tales of being a Welshman in Essex, much to the delight of fellow welsh born club members.

Danny Crates, local Thurrock and Maldon rugby player, although he's probably best known for his world class performances on the athletics track, closed the evening with his speech. With his Paralympic Gold medal in tow Danny gave an immensely inspiring talk about always pushing yourself to be at the top of your game- something players in the audience will no doubt take with them as they continue to compete in their respective leagues.

With the formalities out of the way guests reveled in what remained of the evening and the bar! An event enjoyed by all so thanks must go all of those who joined us and to those who made it possible; in particular Ross Cowie who's weeks of hard work paid off as the celebrations ran without a hitch.

We hope to see you all in 10 years time for our 100th Anniversary!

You can see all the photos from the event here.