News
President Geoff Irvine to stand down
Geoff Irvine has announced his intention to stand down from his current position as President at the end of the 2023/24 Championship season, bringing to an end a 25-year association with Bedford Blues.
Part of the group that saved the Club in 1999, Irvine leaves a longstanding legacy when stepping aside and all associated with the Blues extend a huge amount of gratitude for his dedication, time and support throughout his quarter century of involvement.
Chairman of the Club for 20 years of that time (2001-2021), Irvine also enjoyed a successful decade as Chairman of the Championship Clubs, as well as representing the league on the RFU Council and becoming a Board Member of Rugby World Cup 2015.
Throughout his involvement at Twickenham, he played a pivotal role in the £85m upgrade to the East Stand development and has since been elected as a Distinguished Member of the RFU upon leaving the council.
Irvine led the club through various achievements and challenges, both on and off the field, to become a pillar of security in what was a rollercoaster ride. His tireless efforts along with a great deal of financial support helped ensure that the club is in a healthy position today.
David Gunner, current Bedford Blues Chairman, said: “It is impossible to overstate the contribution that Geoff has made to the Club over those years. Back in 1999, we were in a perilous state, and making serious financial losses. Geoff provided both a large and ongoing financial commitment and strong leadership, enabling us to recover from the acute difficulties of our time in the Premiership and subsequent relegation.
“Without Geoff, we would simply not have survived. He remained at the helm while the club reestablished its financial position, oversaw several successes and placed the Blues in a much healthier situation. The club, and indeed the game owes him a great deal, and I am delighted that we will be able to mark his formal retirement from the Presidency with a special event. He will always be welcome at GR.”
To commemorate his 20 years’ service as Chairman, Blues held a ‘Celebration of Bedford Rugby’ fixture at Goldington Road in May 2021, featuring some of the standout figures from Irvine’s time at the helm.
There are too many highlights to mention, but to mark the 25-year celebration and standing down as President, a special event on Friday 26th April is planned.
A three course Black-Tie Dinner with legends from the game and entertainment from Bobby Davro will help make it a fitting finale with places for this event extremely limited. The last few slots are available at £65 + VAT, please email gareth@bedfordrugby.co.uk to book.
Irvine added: "All good things come to an end, I am very happy that the club is in good hands and will continue to prosper. Life is all about timing."
Thank you for everything, Geoff! Bedford will always be indebted to you.
*Photography by Ben McDade*
