In 2000 it was decided that, although functions organised by the former players including social events, team reunion lunches and golf days had always played an important part of club life, there was now a need for a more official and structured association. It was also decided that it would be beneficial to establish a base for the association at the club.
Consequently, the tractor shed under the scoreboard was converted into a bar where members could meet, a constitution was agreed, a committee formed and the inaugural Annual General Meeting held in April 2001. A kitchen, dining area, toilet facilities and an extension to the bar have been added. Membership has grown and there are currently over 300 members.
In 2010, the association opened a Facebook page for former and current players which now reunites more than 400 friends from all over the world with the club.
Former Players’ Lunches are held at the club twice during the season and there is an annual reunion lunch at historic venues in London.
Golf events include a golf match v Northampton Saints Former Players before the annual Mobbs Memorial Match, a Past v Present Players golf competition for the President’s Cup and two other golf days each season. Since 2002 a very popular annual golf tour to France has been arranged.
Since its formation the F.P.A. has made regular financial contributions to the club.
The Association Chairman is Club Director Leigh Mansell and the Secretary is John Cooley email cools@btinternet.com
Becoming a new member of the Former Players' Association has never been simpler! Payments have now moved online; for just £2 per month you could gain access to exclusive news, events, reunion dinners at Goldington Road and social gatherings.
Reconnect with and support your club while catching up with former teammates, reminisce and regale stories about your time at Goldington Road and create even more memorable moments at the home of Bedford's premier sporting club.
Please click this link to begin your rolling FPA subscription and instantly start receiving all the benefits of membership: https://bit.ly/FPAOnlineMembership.
Exisiting members are encouraged to transfer across to this new payment plan as soon as possible. Please cancel your current standing order after signing up to the online payment platform.
We are proud of all our former players and would like to keep in touch with you all through this subscription service, while you enjoy the benefits of membership.
T&Cs apply. For answers to some frequently asked questions, please click the FAQ form below. If you are still having trouble signing up to the online subscription service, please email sophie@bedfordrugby.co.uk.
FAQ - FORMER PLAYERS' ASSOCIATION ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION (66.4KB)Friday 27th November - Tickets for the 2026 Mobbs Memorial Match between Northampton Saints and Bedford Blues on Friday 27th November are now on General Sale for the fixture at DPD Stadium @ Franklin's Gardens. Click here to buy tickets.
The Former Players Association will again be competing in the Mobbs Golf Trophy as part of this year's rememberance of a true rugby legend.
Local caterers, Crème de la Crème will again be servicing the Former Players Bar in 2026/27, offering a set two-course menu including tea, coffee and mints at just £35 per person.
Additional cheese board available at a supplement, group and individual bookings are welcomed for all competitive men’s fixtures.
Click the button below to contact Supporter Relationship Manager, Sophie Perry or call the office on 01234 321880 to reserve your spot at future matches.
BOOK PLACES IN THE FORMER PLAYERS BAR
Former Players Spring Lunches - 2026/27 Season.
The Former Players Spring Luncheon will take place at the Ealing Trailfinders fixture in April, date still sujbect to final ratification from Elior Champ Rugby. Full details will follow in due course.
The matchday programme runs a series of articles focussing on a Former Blues Player and catches up with them post-Bedford Blues and asks "Where are they now?"
1st August 2024
It is rare when such a large community including the town, County and beyond, is saddened by the death of one of its legends. Such is the case at the recent passing of Gareth Davies, unquestionably a ‘Man’s Man’ and a ‘Player’s Person’.
Read more...
21st May 2024
It is with deep regret that the club must share the sad news of the recent passing of longstanding supporter, Hazel Webb at the age of 94.
Read more...
16th February 2024
The London Lunch took place at Gray’s Inn (Inns of the Court) on Friday, February 9th.
Read more...
18th January 2024
The Celebration of George’s Life will take place on Saturday, 17th February at 3p.m. in the Marquee at Bedford Rugby Club, Goldington Road, MK40 3NF.
Read more...
23rd October 2023
The Former Players Autumn Lunch took place on Saturday, 21st October in the marquee, prior to the club’s first League match of the season vs Ealing Trailfinders.
Read more...
23rd March 2023
Another very successful London Lunch was held on Friday, February 24th.
Read more...
Congratulations to former player Jake Sharp and his wife Alice on the birth of their son Benjamin Andrew Joshua, a brother for Pippa and Phoebe.
Congratulations to Harry and Lila Wells on the birth of their son Zachary, a brother for Oscar and Theo.
Congratulations to Hayden and Michaela Thompson-Stringer on the birth of their daughter Ophelia, a sister to Aurora.
Congratulations to Ben and Georgina Gulliver on the birth of their twins Lotte and Freddie.
Congratulations to Liam and Rebecca Roberts on the birth of their daughter Sophia, a sister for Macsen and Estella.
Congratulations to Justin Blanchet and Jojo on their recent wedding in Scotland.
Belated congratulations to Ben Ransom and Daniela who were married in May.
Congratulations to Matt Volland and Liz Ormesher on their recent marriage.
