WELLINGTON Rugby Club made a working profit of just over £10,000 during the past year, it was disclosed at the club’s annual meeting at the Athletic Ground on Friday evening.

The profit would have been even bigger but for the fact the club bought the near-by Beech Grove field from Somerset County Council, greatly adding to its facilities.

Main items of income were gate receipts and donations and sponsorship, which were up during the past year, while the main expense was the purchase of the Beech Grove field.

The president Matt Colman said it had been a good year for the club - both on and off the field. The lst XV just missed out on promotion from Western Counties West.

His brother, Ashley, who is secretary, thanked all the players, officials, supporters, and anyone who had played a part in making the past year so successful.

John Dunbar was re-elected chairman

Wellington have arranged three pre-season friendlies and will be taking two teams to play away to the Sidmouth club on Saturday, August 24. They have a home game against Wyvern, either on August 22 or 23 for the 2nd XV, and play North Petherton at home on Friday, August 30. All kick-off times to be confirmed.

Pre-season training under head coach Graham Dawe began on Monday and continues this evening (7p.m. prompt), with twice weekly sessions.

Wellington’s first match of the season in Western Counties West is an away game against Chard on Saturday, September 7, with their first home fixture being the following Saturday against Bideford.

Wellington 2nd XV’s opening game is away to Bath Old Edwardians on Saturday, September 14, with their first home match being the following Saturday against Midsomer Norton.