RFU reassures former presidents over finances

The Rugby Football Union has reassured a respected group of eight past presidents of the governing body that the union’s finances and commercial prospects are in good order after disquiet was expressed in various quarters following the publication of a 40-page report compiled by former chief executive Francis Baron.

The RFU is about to announce a redundancy programme that will involve the loss of more than 60 jobs across the board, many affecting the community game. There have also been misgivings about the £27-30 million budget overspend on the East Stand redevelopment project.

The past presidents were invited to attend a meeting at Twickenham on Thursday with chief executive Stephen Brown, chairman Andy Cosslett and two independent nonexecutive directors.

“We had a very good meeting with a large group of past presidents,” said an RFU spokeswoman. “It was very collaborative and we shared a lot of information with the group, which was well received.”

It is understood that the presidents confirmed that they had not commissioned the report themselves but were in receipt of it and aware of its contents.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have been hit by the enforced retirement through injury of promising England Saxons prop Scott Wilson. The 24-year-old made 80 appearances for the Falcons’ first team after coming through the academy, making his debut as an 18-year-old. But he sustained a neck injury during the Premiership semi-final against Exeter in May and has bowed to medical advice to stop playing.

“I’ve been playing rugby since I was six and my dream was always to play for Newcastle Falcons,” said Wilson. “My uncle brought me down to watch the games and I used to stand on the North Terrace come rain, shine, hail or snow to watch the Falcons play. I have now been told by the doctor that I have to retire, which is a huge blow.”