The Development Tour to South Africa came under starter’s orders last Friday Night when there was a Night at the Races fundraiser at the Beechlawn House Hotel.

The Union’s thanks are due to Robin Johnston who organised the event enjoyed by all and to Guy Metcalfe for giving us the facilities of the Beechlawn for the night.

There were a few photo-finishes in the races and the shirt auction was a close run thing as well.

In the end Paul Stirling’s playing shirt signed by the present Irish Squad raised £300 with the Burton family and young Max in particular the happy winners of the auction.

The Tour Brochure is currently being printed and will be available at the beginning of February.

Each member of the party is being given a number to sell and the proceeds will be going to them personally to help defray their cost of the trip.

The Union is aware that a number of clubs are raising funds for their participating players and would ask members to support them by seeking out and purchasing a tour brochure.