After 6 years at the helm, Phil Sinkinson OBE will step down as Chairman of Bournemouth Rugby Club.  As the 2019-20 season has officially finished, this will be with immediate effect.

During his tenure as Chairman, Phil has overseen the development of the club introducing a Commercial arm to work alongside Rugby, which has been vital in transforming the club over the past few seasons.

Phil said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Chairman of this great club however it is now time for a change in leadership to bring fresh energy and direction through the next phase and beyond".

“I feel this is the right moment for me to stand down as Chairman and just enjoy being a fan of this incredible rugby club. I will always be committed to the wonderful Bournemouth family and it has been an honour and a privilege to serve this fantastic club".

For the interim, Vice Chair Simon Carkeet will take on the role of Acting Chairman until the club is in position to hold an AGM.

Acting Chair Simon Carkeet said, "Phil’s dedication to the club has helped us achieve so much over the past 6 years and we respect his decision to step down. Now, more than ever we need to all pull together to ensure our club can spring back to full force when we are permitted to.  We are working extremely hard behind the scenes to ensure this can happen. Personally, I want to thank Phil for his support and wish him well for the future”.

President Doug Warren added “I would like to echo those sentiments already expressed but would add from a personal perspective it has been a pleasure working with Phil and I am sorry that he is stepping down. He has steered the club with considerable energy and understanding through a period of considerable change and development but as a club we must gird our loins to face some challenging times ahead”.

All at Bournemouth Rugby take this opportunity to thank Phil for all he has given the club and wish him and his family well. We look forward to welcoming Phil back to the club when the season starts again.

Notes to Editors

• Bournemouth Rugby operates 4 Senior Teams, Academy, Girls, U6 – U16 Youth and Mini, Wheelchair, Performance and Social Touch Rugby. Community Team Coaching in 13 local schools.
• The Club currently trains (albeit not whilst Covid-19 restrictions are in place), at BU Sports Campus, Chapel Gate. Visit bournemouth-rugby.co.uk for specific training details.
• Please visit our Facebook page at: #BournemouthRugby Twitter@Bournemouthrfc Instagram @bournemouth_rfc_official