With the formal playing season now enjoying a well-earned break, thoughts now turn to the more informal aspect of club rugby – the tour. Some clubs travel far and wide to see how rugby is played competitively on other continents. However, this year not only has Bangor Rugby Club chosen to hop across the Irish Sea to Newcastle, but it has also targeted the more mature from within its playing membership. With the touring party ages ranging from the 20s to the 60s, there is certainly a wide spread of experience, if not fitness.

Nonetheless, excitement and anticipation is high as the party prepare to fly out this Saturday morning. Jet lag permitting, the squad will play a match against local hosts Northern Football Club in Gosforth, then later that evening they head for St James’s Park to enjoy the Heineken Cup final featuring Saracens and Leinster. If Bangor’s trip is as colourful as their travelling outfits, the tour should certainly brighten Tyneside this weekend.