AST weekend was a wonderful one for the town of Newent. Our celebrations started on Friday with a fabulous turnout of Newent people to see the rugby team off to Twickenham, wishing them every bit of luck possible.

Then to the match, probably with 800 or so Newent supporters following the team, affectionately known as the Green Army. The score was 58-29 – fabulous, they made it without luck!

All members of the squad should be nominated for man of the match, they were excellent.

When the coach returned to Newent, slowing down through Church Street, there were a few tears shed by the many hundreds of well wishers. What a fabulous welcome home for the team, who appreciated it.

We also wish to thank the Newent shopkeepers who decorated their windows along a green/yellow theme to show support for our team.

Can Newent do it again – of course they can, with all our support and encouragement for the Green Army.

Roger Beard

Newent's mayor, on behalf of the Town Council