Rugby for tourists is a huge hit
THERE was a distinct continental feel at Widnes RUFC when they hosted a unique rugby tournament organised by Alstom, who have recently opened a brand new state-of-the-art facility in Halebank, Widnes.
Planning for the event began back in 2015, when two Alstom directors – who shared a mutual interest in rugby – decided to set up a match between Alstom UK and Alstom Paris. ●
That proved to be a great success, and since then, the event has grown year on year to this, the biggest rugby tour so far.
So, in appreciation of the development of the new Technology Centre at Halebank, the company took advantage of the facilities at Widnes RUFC, who were able to host 130 players from LaRochelle, Paris, Tarbes, Villeurbanne and the UK and Ireland.
In the end, LaRochelle came out on top, but the success of the tournament and the friendships and relationships that were made over the two days were the real winners.
In fact, it was so successful, that Alstom hope to come to Widnes at some time again in the future.
In addition to the rugby, the company also carried out a really successful sustainability event whereby they visited four schools in Runcorn and Widnes to promote engineering and the importance of education as a career path.
Alstom colleagues from France also took the opportunity to visit the brand new facility in Halebank.