Northampton Saints - News : Keith Barwell

17 September 2005, 12:32 pm

Keith Barwell - Newcastle

Well, here we go again, and a big welcome to Franklin�s Gardens. The new South Stand will be impressive when it is fully operational. The empty seats you see at the back are because we cannot use them until the Newport game. The new boxes, bars and executive facilities should all be in full use by the end of November. I know many of you are unhappy about lack of car parking, especially those who buy season tickets for the car park. Unfortunately we are behind schedule with this and things will not be ready until the late spring. Then of course, we will have a new road and car parking for 2,500 cars, more than the rest of the league put together and more than Twickenham. In the meantime, we will do our best to keep you happy.

A warm welcome to directors, staff and supporters of Newcastle. David Thomson, the chairman, and Rob Andrew, the directory of rugby, have done a lot of positive work for all the clubs as well as their own since the game went professional. I was looking forward to the Carlos Spencer versus Jonny Wilkinson scenario, sadly now not to be. Newcastle have narrowly lost their two opening games and will be looking to open their account this afternoon.

There has been some misinformed discussion and criticism of the nationality of our players. I am not commenting but would give you the following facts. We have 54 registered players. Slightly more than 70 per cent of them are qualified to play for England, 90 per cent are qualified to play for the British Lions. I will say no more.

The current row between the clubs and the RFU is concerning the 11 weeks rest period that Andy Robinson wants. We all agree that is a good idea. Every player at Northampton has had at least 11 weeks off. The answer? Not to organise any games, club or international, during the 11 week period. Is that too simple?

If I look slightly more anxious than usual this afternoon, it is because my wife�s horse Franklin�s Gardens is running in the Irish Saint Leger. Immediately afterwards, it is off to Australia to run in the Melbourne Cup. I am not sure I can handle all the pressure.

There are lots of other things happening this afternoon. Former season ticket holder Richard Bowden is emigrating to Australia with his family and this is their last game. Rachel Worrall and David Thomas got married this morning and will be in row G of block N today dressed in their finery. Sounds like it is all going to be fun and games.

Saints with Heart are organising two events to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. A big quiz night in the Rodber Suite on Friday, October 7, and their annual walk on the morning of October 15 before the London Irish game. Look out for details.

Finally, well done to the England cricket team. Let�s hope it is not too long before our next open top bus ride.

Enjoy the game.