HS, I think that quote from Hartpury says as much about the gulf, and how unfit the Champ is for purpose if a club is allowed to play in the second tier of the pro game in England with a normal capacity that is so far short of what they need to go up. That's fine in the pre-pro days, but with the aim of the Champ being the gateway to the top level it must be unacceptable, and as you says shows how the two leagues, and I would say the who structure is incompatible with the prem. To be far without SL money, and in the past of CB and MP, we could well be the wrong side of that line as well. Which I think emphasises how important the off field requirements are for any team to survive in the pro game.

We are now well supported, far better than in the early days of pro rugby, and BS have provided all the facilities that qualify us for the top level. The are many top clubs from the Am/early prem days that have faired even worst than us. If SL was not a Bristolian but say from Bedford, Cov, Moseley or LW, where could they be now with the investments and stability we have had.

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Graham

C'mon Bris,



Stand out in a crowd, wear the Hoops!

Agreed Graham, we are hugely fortunate to be within the Bristol Sport fold and enjoy all the advantages that go with that.

Despite, or maybe because, of our move, as you say we now attract bigger crowds even at Champ level but, as far as I am aware, none of the other Champ clubs have increased attendances for a considerable time now, perhaps that's the key; there just isn't the demand.