The River Lune throughout history has been an important waterway in the development of the City of Lancaster and its surrounding areas. Since its formation, the Vale of Lune Rugby Union Football Club has never ventured far from its banks and the ebb and flow of the tide has been reflected in the Club’s fortunes.
The Vale of Lune Rugby Union and Hockey Club, as it was originally known, was formed in March 1900, after the argument of ‘broken time’ payments had split the game of rugby. How fitting that the first meeting of the fledging club was held in the Phoenix Rooms in Lancaster.
By the end of March, a pitch had been found at Willow Lane, Lancaster, and a fixture arranged against Preston Grasshoppers. A move to Quay Meadow followed six seasons later. Before and after the First World War, the Vale’s reputation for playing attractive rugby was beginning to spread, attracting quality players and a growing number of spectators.
Concerns were voiced during the 20’s and 30’s about the lack of a permanent home. Prior to the Second World War, a forward thinking committee began to investigate possible sights for future developments, with the rural delights of Powderhouse Lane emerging as the favourite.
When hostilities ceased, the move to the present ground gathered speed and once ‘in situ’ the dream became a reality. Much needed cash was raised by innovative methods which captured the imagination of the local population.
Hard work and enthusiasm produced facilities that were second to none. The wide-open spaces and superb playing surface became a favourite for the Lancashire County side. Who will ever forget the ‘soggy’ Championship Final against Gloucestershire in March 1980, and another packed house for the visit of the touring Australians on a freezing afternoon in December 1981?
Over the years, the number of senior sides began to increase to meet demand. The Colts were formed in 1959; the Mini/Junior section made its first tentative steps in the early 70’s, and the ladies team was founded in 1992.
Off the pitch, the construction of two squash courts and an increasing use of the Clubhouse for social events established the Vale as a leading, forward thinking Club. Success on the rugby field was achieved by winning the Lancashire Cup on two occasions – 1985/86 and 1991/92, and the Lancashire Trophy in 1995/96. Prior to the introduction of National Leagues, the 1st XV topped National Division ‘C’ in the 1986/87 season.
Still flows the River Lune, as does the rich legacy left by the forward thinking gentlemen of the Phoenix Rooms.
