Webb Ellis Cup coming to Devon
In the build up to Rugby World Cup 2015 coming to Exeter, one of the 11 Host Cities, the Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour will head to the city, showcasing Exeter and Devon to a world audience.
Since May 2014, Rugby’s most coveted prize has been capturing the imagination of thousands of people across the world as part of the build up to Rugby World Cup 2015 and now the world famous Trophy has touched down in the UK following its’ global tour.
The Trophy is named after William Webb Ellis, credited as the inventor of Rugby Football, and is the prestigious prize for the sport. Following years in the planning, the Trophy Tour is part of the 100 day countdown to Rugby World Cup 2015 and has already visited Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Wales.
The Webb Ellis Cup will be visiting various locations around the county of Devon, starting in Plymouth on July 8 and finishing in Exeter on July 11, before continuing its journey around the country, finally arriving at Twickenham Stadium on September 18 ahead of the Opening Ceremony.
The Trophy Tour will engage with fans and give them the opportunity to build unforgettable memories as part of their own Rugby World Cup 2015 story. With Exeter as one of the Host Cities, the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership is provided with a rare opportunity to be involved in a World Class sporting event, perfect for families.
Cllr Rosie Denham, Lead Councillor for Economy and Culture, said: “Exeter is gearing up to welcome the Webb Ellis Cup, which is one of the most recognisable icons within Rugby. A wide range of events for all to enjoy are being planned within Exeter and the rest of Devon to welcome the Trophy, and to celebrate Rugby World Cup 2015 and our local communities”
If you are looking to follow the Webb Ellis Cup on it’s journey through Devon, see below for a full agenda:
July 8 - Plymouth
10am -12pm - The cup will be visiting The University of St Mark & St John for a closed press event.
July 8 - Exmouth
3:30pm - 5:30pm - The Trophy will arrive at Exmouth sea front near to the Pavilion. As well as the World famous Trophy you will be able to see over 150 school children from 13 local primary schools preparing for a beach tag Rugby tournament from 1pm. In addition you can enjoy much from Exmouth Town Concert Band who will be leading an open air concert.
July 10 - Sandy Park
Noon – 2pm - The Webb Ellis Cup will take centre stage at Sandy Park, a Host Venue for Rugby World Cup 2015 here in the Westcountry. This will be an ideal opportunity for Rugby supporters to not only get up close and personal with the Trophy, but be able to see at first hand all the works that have been carried out ahead of the Tournament itself.
July 10 - Woodbury Park Hotel & Golf Club
6pm-9pm - Plenty of opportunity to have your picture taken with the trophy itself. The evening begins at 6pm and there will be plenty of refreshments available, including Woodbury's famous Paella and Kebab Shack. Entry is completely free, as is the ‘Convert-a-Ball’ Challenge and the trophy will be on-site between 7pm and 9pm.
July 8 - Crediton
18:30 - The Trophy will be arriving at Crediton Rugby Club to join in a unique event. The evening will witness a Rugby game between young players aged 22 or less to commemorate the actual anniversary (100 years) of one of the few games played in the Great War. This was between Barnstaple (Barum) and Crediton (Kirton) in July 1915 but played in India where they were stationed! It is likely that some of the players will not only have the same names, but will actually be descended from those original players - who were all local to the north Devon area.
The evening will also be a 'Thank you' to many of Devon Rugby Clubs 'Unsung Heroes' - unpaid volunteers nominated from Devon Rugby Clubs, who give so much to make rugby such a success and part of the community in the County.
July 11 - Exeter
There will be a full day of events to look forward to in the Host City:
10:30 - Starting with a march RAF ATC (Totnes) 421 Squadron (Air Training Corps)
to the Guildhall from the Civic Centre.
11:15 - The Lord Mayor & Lord Lieutenant take the salute from the dais as the Band marches past the Webb Ellis Cup and enters the Guildhall.
11:20 - Band forms up outside Exeter Cathedral, Lord Mayor & Lord Lieutenant and guests process over to Exeter Cathedral to witness the Band’s Display.
12.55pm - Lord Mayor, Lord Lieutenant and guests process behind the Trophy to Exeter Cathedral where it will be met by the Dean.
1-5pm The Trophy will be outside Exeter Cathedral for public viewing and photographs. During the afternoon Cathedral Green will also play host to a wide range of stalls, entertainment, food and drink and much more.
