Bolingey Barbarians v Redruth Veterans
Sunday 23rd November 2025
The much-anticipated fixture between The Bolingey Barbarians and Redruth Veterans took place on Sunday, 23rd November at Perranporth RFC. The match drew a sizeable crowd, with supporters from both sides braving the brisk autumn weather to enjoy a feast of veteran rugby.
The teams and spectators paid their respects before the match, pausing for ‘a minutes’ silence’, in memory of John Sumnall, who was a founder member and first chairman of The Bolingey Barbarians. John was also a former President of the Barbarians and of The Cornwall Rugby Football Union.
A big thankyou to the Secretary of Cornwall Rugby Referees Society, Russ Pomeroy, for officiating and ensuring the match ran smoothly.
From the opening whistle, the intensity was evident as both teams sought to stamp their authority early on. Bolingey Barbarians, playing with their characteristic flair and camaraderie, quickly settled into their rhythm. Their forwards made strong carries, setting a solid foundation for the backs to exploit space out wide.
Redruth Veterans, however, were not to be outdone. Showing plenty of grit and experience, they defended their line resolutely and countered with swift breaks whenever the chance arose.
It soon became evident that this encounter would be hard fought and evenly contested.
The second period began with both teams making changes, introducing fresh legs and some familiar faces from seasons past. Bolingey’s forwards continued to impress in the set-piece, securing vital possession and territory.
Redruth Veterans kept themselves in contention with some enterprising play, utilising their veteran wingers to gain ground. Their patience was eventually rewarded when, following a sustained period in Bolingey’s half, they crossed the whitewash.
With the clock ticking down, the Reds turned up the pressure. A crucial turnover in midfield led to a breakaway try, extending their lead. Redruth continued to push hard in the final minutes and were rewarded with last score; this sealed a hard-fought and entertaining victory.
The official scoreline of 6 tries to 3 was re-calculated by Bolingey President, Roger Mead. Apparently with ‘count back’ and loaned Barbarian substitutes it was decreed that ‘Rugby was the winner!
The match was played in excellent spirit, with both teams displaying great skill and sportsmanship. The post-match debrief in the clubhouse saw plenty of camaraderie and shared stories, rounding off a memorable afternoon of rugby at Perranporth RFC.
Congratulations to both sides for providing a wonderful spectacle and upholding the traditions of veteran rugby.
After whetting their appetites, the great and the good repaired to The Bolingey Inn to enjoy the all-important ‘third half’. Thanks to our hosts, Diane and Matt for their hospitality.
Congratulations to the five new Barbarian Caps:
Akiva Eaton (Prop, Illogan Park)
Dan Roberts (Scrum Half, Helston)
Curtis Hill (Back Row, Redruth Albany)
Matt Horton (Full Back, Falmouth)
Tom Spiller (Scrum Half, Falmouth)
Welcome to The Bolingey Barbarians gentlemen, we hope you wear the black and gold tie with pride.
After the raffle, auction, kind donations and some dubious fines a fantastic sum of £890.00 was raised for children’s charities in Cornwall.
President, Roger Mead and Chairman, Steve Instance, gave an outline of current charitable projects and thanked everyone for their generosity. A glass was raised to John Sumnall and tributes paid, instrumental in the birth of The Bolingey Barbarians of which he was so proud. We hope the next fixture on Sunday, 14th December, will see ‘The Bolingey Bowl’ filled with red wine as we take on Perranporth, Newquay and St Agnes in our annual ‘Christmas Jumper’ day. So, please dust off the festive knitwear to celebrate with old friends and new.
