Colchester Rugby Football club closed its Centenary celebrations with a lunch for X Players on Saturday, 18th April 2026. It was the perfect end with The Ravens playing Ipswich in the final home game of the season.

The day was brightened up with CRFC 100 beer provided by Colchester Brewery plus ties collected and gifted by the late Stu Pritchard. In return diners donated money to the Oddballs Foundation and over £1,500 was raised in memory of Tom Miller.

Over 150 XPs turned out from across the years. Players from every decade graced the event and the oldest playing member was Bryn King from 1964-5. After introductions and an excellent lunch, the crowd enjoyed a wonderful match with Ipswich winning in the last play of the game.

Afterwards, there were the Player of the Century awards, for which members had been voting on for several weeks. Winners and their supporting endorsements can be found on the club centenary archive at www.crfc100.com .

The archive will remain open for people to contribute archives and comments.

Many thanks to all those who made it possible over the last two years.

Richard Parker