ARMOY LOOK FORWARD TO MOMENTOUS ANNIVERSARY

Celebrations have been planned to mark the Ruby birthday, culminating with a gala dinner in April at which leading dignitaries from the rugby fraternity are expected to attend.

Over the years the club has experienced many triumphs. The most recent was when they won the Ulster Minor League North two years running between 2010 and 2012, remaining unbeaten in the league on the first occasion.

There’s a renewed air of optimism at Limepark these days not only because of the anniversary but also due to the fact that the club are embarking on an ambitious project to open up a way for the entire community in the Armoy area to avail of their facilities.

The premises are designed to be suited not only to rugby but for use for sport and physical recreation.

Currently, a model aircraft club, community groups and private functions use the clubhouse, but officials feel the time is right to take the club and the community forward with modern fit for purpose facilities that can be used by everyone.

Club President, Tom Christie, says the next few months will be the most exciting period in the history of the club and he and his colleagues cannot wait until they see the fruits of their endeavours.

“We have taken the plunge and are determined to see this through. The new premises will be community focused and hopefully will be well used.

“Community and civic leaders are behind us and if we can secure the finance we will be on our way,” he said.

The club realise they are limited in their expectations of playing top class rugby at Limepark but that doesn’t mean they are unable to offer first-class facilities and open up the opportunity for young talent to ‘cut their teeth’ before moving on to better things.

“We will always strive to do our best and not adopt a roll over and lie down approach – far from it. We are ambitious and want to succeed,” Mr Christie added.

More details of events planned for the 40th year will emerge in the New Year.