Starting this Saturday with the first of the season's Ringtons Tea Cup matches. The 1sts and 4ths are away to Gosforth at their new Broadway West ground, with the 3rds playing them at home.

There are Christmas party dates starting to go in the diary, and on Tuesday 27th December (Bank Holiday), it's the John Elders Memorial game, Novos v Old Novocastrians Association. This should be a great day, bringing back some much needed rugby between Christmas and New Year.

Into 2017, we have a pre-match lunch on Saturday 7th January, where we will sample the wonderful food Ruth is making in our new kitchen.

The Six Nations follow in February and March, with sensible kick-off times allowing everyone the chance to play / watch live rugby, and also watch the internationals.

There's a celebration of 25 years of ladies rugby at Novos with the anniversary dinner in April, followed by the home leg of the Ringtons Cup - always a great day!

Towards the end of the season we host a number of prestigious County events; firstly 'Super Sunday' - hosting the U14, 15 and 16 County Cup and Plate Finals all on the same day. Then it's the men's Senior Cup and Plate finals and last but not least, we host the local derby, Northumberland Ladies against Durham Ladies. All big events in their own right, and a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the club. Lots of helpers will be needed!

And of course, once the season is finished, it's the Novos Ball - what a great event last May at Newcastle Falcons!

So, presuming that many of you will be receiving your 2017 diary as a stocking filler, open this diary too, and pencil in as many of the upcoming events at Novos as you can. It should be a great 2017!