Cheque presentation celebrates community impact of Gosford All Blacks RFC

Gosford All Blacks RFC has been presented with a £1,852 cheque following its victory in the Charity and Community Award category at the Cherwell Business Awards 2025.

The presentation marks the culmination of a highly successful awards evening, during which £1,852 was raised through the generosity of attending businesses. This amount was generously matched by Bicester Village, bringing the total raised to £3,704.

As the award winner, Gosford All Blacks RFC received £1,852, while the two shortlisted finalists, Cherwell Collective CIC and Bicester Hindu Society, each received £926 in recognition of their important work within the community.

Gosford All Blacks RFC is a well-established, community-focused rugby club based in Kidlington that plays a key role in promoting grassroots rugby across Oxfordshire. The club runs inclusive sessions for players of all ages and abilities, including SEND-friendly training designed to ensure children with special educational needs and disabilities have access to rugby in a supportive, welcoming environment. These sessions create opportunities for improved confidence, social engagement, and wellbeing for young people and families across the county. 

Darren Rea, Youth Chair and SEND Lead at Gosford All Blacks RFC, said:

“We are extremely grateful to receive this donation following our Charity and Community Award win at the CBAs 2025. This support will directly benefit our ongoing community programmes, including our inclusive rugby sessions that give children of all abilities a safe, fun place to play and grow. At Gosford All Blacks, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience the benefits of sport and to feel part of a community, and this funding will help us extend that reach even further.”

The cheque was presented by Paddy Patterson, Director of the Cherwell Business Awards, who added:

“It was a pleasure to present the cheque to Gosford All Blacks RFC. The Charity and Community Award recognises organisations that make a genuine difference and this year’s fundraising reflects the generosity of our business community, alongside the continued support of Bicester Village. The impact these groups have locally is inspiring, and we’re proud to help them on their journey.”

The Cherwell Business Awards honour the outstanding businesses, charities, community groups, and professionals who contribute to the growth, wellbeing and vitality of the Cherwell District.

The awards team is now preparing for Cherwell Business Awards 2026. If you would like to be involved in next year’s event, please contact Placi Espejo or Marie Parkinson by email at [email protected].