The Grand Marquee is up and looking, well Grander than Grand as this afternoon a bumper crowd of 400 to 500 people descend on Waterloo Road for in what in effect is a celebration of Merseyside rugby, business and socialising.

We welcome the players, officials and supporters of our longstanding friends (off the pitch) & foes (on it!) from West Derby based Sefton for the First XV game on the main pitch. Likewise our visitors from down the tracks Firwood Waterloo 3s for the Third XV fixture over the wall. Greetings too to the respective match officials Jim Bennett and Mike Goodwin.

It is also an absolute pleasure to introduce our latest sponsors, iconic brand Crabbie’s part of the Southport family founded Halewood International Group which has agreed a two year deal with the club. Great to see such a well known and successful company in touch with it roots and a big thanks in particular for supporting todays Ladies Day (you may notice the small canvas appendage to the clubhouse on your way in, next to the array of Mercedes*) and next months forthcoming Fireworks Extravaganza.

We warmly greet Crabbie’s and their guests, and also our 300 Ladies sitting down to a sumptuous lunch and post match entertainment and dancing! Hopefully it won’t be too distracting for the players....or the spectators.

For their part the Ladies have 36 rugby hulks to salivate over from their pitch side boudoir. The clubs are even-steven so far this season each having won two games and lost three. This has been the story of the enduring history over the years and today promises to be no different.

The Seconds travel to the Fylde as Andy Bolands buccaneers take on league leaders Thornton Cleveleys 1s. We wish them well in seeking their first away win of the season.

Terrific performances last week along with great turnout at training has given the selectors a challenging task this week even more so with subsequent drop-outs. But hope springs eternal and an influx of potentially exciting new players In particular Australian back Lawrence Abood, and the youthful second row partnership of Jack Boyce and Cameron Williams has boosted the Firsts.

Likewise the seconds Hayden, another Australian, making his debut along with Ciaran Beswick from Edge Hill University and Tom Rowe from Wilmslow RUFC. Good to see fellow Edge Hill scholar Darius Sangari feeling his way back after injury too. Also to have home grown Matty Casselton back on the team sheet.

The clubs international standing is further boosted with the inclusion of Agris and Arturs from Latvia in the squad for the Thirds. This is what Southport RFC is all about; a focus for a vibrant mix of home grown and new talent on & off the pitch with a common love of the game and a desire to achieve regardless of background and to wear the red, black & amber with prtde.

There are no games at Waterloo Road tomorrow but if anyone fancies a Sunday drive you could nip over to watch the high riding Colts at West Park (St Helens) or with a full tank the Ladies at Sunderland (assuming they've vacated the marquee!)

And if that isn't enough lets “fill the tent” next week at the BIG Comedy Night on Wednesday and Only Fools and 3 Courses on Friday. See posters or web site for further details.

In the meantime gallons of Prosecco & Gin to be necked today! Oh and a game of rugby or two...

*Contrary to rumour these are not the Exec Boards new club cars! If only....