McBrides Chartered Accountants is proud to announce sponsorship this season of Sidcup Rugby Football Club as the local firm seeks to increase its visibility in the community.
Sidcup RFC was started in 1882 and today fields 16 teams ranging from minis through juniors and Colts to three regular senior Saturday XVs.
McBrides, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in the latter part of the new season, helps businesses and private individuals with their tax and business affairs.
Established on a field adjoining the cricket club at Crescent Farm, where it remains to this day, Sidcup RFC is now a member of Sidcup Sports Club, sharing facilities with Sidcup Cricket Club and Crescent Lawn Tennis Club.
Famous ex-players include Billy Bushell, who went on to play for Harlequins where he later gained an England B cap as a full back. Other players with international honours included William Edgar Prattern who played for Scotland in 1927 and the unforgettable Andrew (Andy) William Hancock who played for England in 1965-66.
International caps have also been earned by former club members: including Jim Staples, Captain of Ireland; Alex Bennett, England Colts U21s; and most recently Daniel Kotze, who spent two formative seasons at the club as a Colt and earned a full cap for France at prop in 2013.
Nick Paterno, managing partner at McBrides Chartered Accountants in Sidcup, says: “Sidcup RFC is our local rugby club and a key part of the local sporting community. Post pandemic, we want to become more visible in our local community, so it makes sense that we support a team at the heart of our town!
“We’re delighted to be supporting the club and can’t wait to see our names on their shirts this season – especially as they celebrate their 140th anniversary next year. Sidcup RFC, we’ve got your backs!
“Along with the many players representing the County at various age groups, the level of representation is a testament to Sidcup’s successful youth policy.
“Over the course of the coming year, we look forward to attending not just the matches but social events too and working towards a successful season for all.”
Sidcup RFC chairman Ian Anderson said: “Sidcup RFC is delighted to have McBrides partner with us as a sponsor this season, especially as McBrides was originally founded by a former player. We look forward to developing the relationship and hope to see McBrides name on our shirts for many years to come.”
Sidcup’s First XIV first match of the season is at home to local rivals Westcombe Park at 3pm on Saturday 3rd September.