Sad news from London today that the London Welsh Club in Gray’s Inn Road is in deep trouble financially and may not last. I’ve got such happy memories of the club, from a little lad who used to go there for Urdd all the way to heavy and late nights “socialising” in my twenties.

Changes in the movement of Welsh people to London will have changed the markets, I’m not sure we had breathalysers when I lived there either.

Let’s hope they can survive. In my mind and probably in the minds of others, this is an Institution that is worth saving.

I love rugby, rugby union that is, a team game played with tremendous determination by men who control their aggression.

For me the key attributes of rugby are a sense of fair play, teamwork and respect for the opposition (and referee).

Today 8 Feb 2009, sees Wales’ first match in the annual 6 Nations Championship against a re-emerging Scotland. It will be tough match, but one that both sides are capable of winning. I’m only sad that I’m not there to enjoy the other benefit of Rugby: the socialising.

For anyone who has not experinced it, the way that the supporters of rugby teams can integrate, socialise and have a load of fun before, during and after a match has always provided me with great pleasure.

90 mins or so ’till kick off, so it’s now time for some lunch. More after – especially if Wales win.