Pictures: Exeter Rugby Club/Pinnacle Photo Agency

Chiefs stars help launch 'Posts in the Parks Scheme'

Exeter Rugby Club chief executive and chairman, Tony Rowe OBE, says excitement is already mounting as the two-year countdown to the Rugby World Cup 2015 begins today.

In a series of events across the country, including at Southernhay Gardens in Exeter, England Rugby officials have launched its ‘Post in the Parks’ scheme.

Single rugby posts are being installed in parks in the 10 RWC2015 English host cities, including here in Exeter, as visible symbols of the RFU’s commitment to broadening the appeal of rugby and to reaching out to new audiences and new areas.

Across the land, the specially designed posts – which were unveiled by Chiefs stars Sam Hill, Tom Johnson, Tom James and Fetu’u Vainikolo – will help raise people’s awareness of rugby, get the nation behind the tournament and help them feel a real connection to the sport in the build-up to RWC2015.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Rowe said: “With two years to go until Rugby World Cup 2015 kicks-off in England, we are already beginning to see the excitement and enthusiasm building at rugby venues across the country.

“Having the Rugby World Cup come to Sandy Park, to Exeter and the Westcountry is a huge achievement and something we must really make the most of over the next two years. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our city and our region, which we know is steeped in rugby tradition.

“The RFU’s Posts in Park legacy initiative not only marks the two-year countdown to the tournament, but is a great way to bring not only attention to the World Cup itself, but also the game of rugby in and around our great city.”

Helping provide their support to the Exeter bid has been the City Council, whose Lead Councillor for Economy & Culture, Cllr Rosie Denham, added: “Exeter City Council is pleased to welcome Rugby World Cup 2015 to the city and Sandy Park.

“We see this as an amazing opportunity to put Exeter on the national and international map to bring more visitors to the city. “Posts in Parks” has been launched to coincide with the two year countdown to the tournament in 2015. The city is working with businesses to make sure that this proves to be the best event possible and to encourage visitors to stay longer, enjoying our culturally vibrant city.”

Exeter and Sandy Park are hosting three Rugby World Cup games in 2015

Tuesday, September 29: Tonga v Africa 1

Wednesday, October 7: Africa 1 v Europe 1

Sunday, October 11: Italy v Europe 2