Following last weeks stunning fight back against a strong Camborne side, the Reds make the 500 mile return trip to Birmingham to take on Bournville RFC.

Bournville’s roots, as their name suggests, lie in the garden village built by the Cadbury family to house the workers at their chocolate factory. Being Quakers the company forbade the sale of alcohol in the village and it still does not have a pub. The company believed that their workers should have access to a variety of sports and pastimes and set up the Bournville Athletic Club. In 1909 a rugby club was established with all the players being Cadbury employees. During the 1930s Christopher Cadbury, a member of the family, was a popular player with the club.

The club played at Rowheath, close to what is now Cadbury World for a century. They now play at Avery Fields, around four miles from where they were founded.

Last season Bournville finished in 10th place, four points behind Redruth. They have made no fewer than 14 new signings during the close season and beat Bromsgrove and Sheffield Tigers in pre-season friendlies, although they were overwhelmed 15-55 against Bridgend.

Like the Reds, Bournville have won one and lost one at this early stage of the season. They beat league newcomers Devonport Services 40-22 on the first day of this season but succumbed to the league’s other promoted side, Macclesfield, 31-28 having fought back from being 31-7 down 15 minutes before full time.

Referee: Nathan Howarth. Assistant Referees: Leo Burton-Charlie Holmes