Golden Memories Programme Kicks Off At Derby Clash

Golden Memories is a new initiative, targeting over 55’s living with dementia and those challenged by social isolation, depression and loneliness.

One of the day's main off-field events saw a group of former players, including Mike Rafter, Alan Ramsey, Peter Colston and Alan Pearn, attend a reminiscence session in the Lansdown Stand’s Executive Lounge where club historian, Mark Hoskins and programme manager, Kris Tavender joined them.

Club season ticket holders and members of the Foundation's Walking Rugby programme completed the group, to discuss some of their favourite rugby memories. 

Elsewhere in the stadium, current Bristol Rugby players Olly Robinson, Nick Koster, Charlie Amesbury and Kyle Traynor took part in a second reminiscence session with members of the Golden Memories programme.

REMINISCENCE: Charlie Amesbury sits in on a Golden Memories reminiscence session at Ashton Gate (Photo: JMP UK).

Programme manager, Kris Tavender said: “Thank you very much to everyone who supported and participated in the launch of Golden Memories.

“The support shown by current and former players was hugely appreciated, as was the fantastic participation from supporters, who donated old memorabilia and match day programmes.

“The day has already generated huge interest in the programme and we look forward to rolling it out at a Bristol City fixture in the very near future.”

Chief community officer, Ben Breeze said: “What a fantastic weekend on and off the field. Bristol Sport Foundation is delighted to have launched this brand new programme, targeting the city’s older generation.

“Praise must go to Kris Tavender for his exceptional work and I look forward to keeping up to date with progress in this exciting new area of work."

LOOKING BACK: Bristol Rugby's former players at the second reminiscence session at Ashton Gate (Photo: JMP UK).