BBC radio and TV rugby commentator Phil Steele has heaped praise on Llandovery RFC’s new 23 Club membership scheme for the 2018-19 season, writes Tom Hughes.

Steele who was reporting at Church Bank on the day of the launch thinks it a real match winner of an idea.

“The scheme looks tremendous value for money to me with a wide range of benefits and I’d be the first to sign up if I lived in Llandovery,” said the Cardiff based broadcaster.

As from next season, the club will be introducing a new category of membership by which 23 people, each paying £1,000 per annum will be members of an exclusive “23 Club”.

A specially struck Club membership card is to be issued to the 23 members who will enjoy a range of benefits which will be the envy of club members up and down Wales.

“And to be able to go to every home game with the possibility of walking away with £100 in crisp bank notes makes every home game hugely interesting and exciting,” added Steele

Steele was referring to one of the scheme’s benefit by which at the start of the season every member is allocated a number from 1 to 23 for home league games at Church Bank.

If his or her number scores the first Llandovery try that will earn £50 and another £50 prize is given to the number whose player scores the last Llandovery try.

“Imagine the fun. You’ve been allocated number two and go down to the club for a Saturday game and come back with £100 in cash for the wife after your hooker has scored not only the first but also the last Llandovery try!” said Steele.

“And with 15 home games, the chance of getting one or two £50 prizes is a good one.”

Cheques have been coming in to the club just days after the launch with club administrator Gina Deering advising members who are interested not to delay too long such has been its popularity.

“There are also four other attractive benefits to 23 members,” said Ms Deering.

“There is free entry for member and a guest to every home league and cup game at Church Bank plus two complimentary (free) tickets for one of Wales’s November or Six Nations matches.”

“There will be exclusive use of the “23 Room” for members and one guest before the home games against both Carmarthen Quins and Llanelli when an all inclusive buffet with beer/wine will be served.”

“And finally, members and a guest will be invited to an exclusive lounge suit/club blazer/cocktail dress gala dinner for 46 people at the end of the season.

“It will include a three course meal and coffee plus all wines and beers.”

Further details and application forms can be obtained on line at http://www.llandoveryrfc.co.uk/Home/Page, also from Gina Deering on 01550 721110 and [email protected] and Huw S Thomas on 01550 720028 and huwiest @gmail.com

¦ In addition the club will be establishing a Drovers Community Rugby Fund and an associated Bonus Ball competition based on the Saturday Lottery, which will have a weekly prize of £25 and a special Christmas draw of £100.