Eccles First Chop

A brewery local to Eccles RFC has sponsored the club ahead of the 2021/22 season.

First Chop Ales, of Hardy Street, are situated just a few hundred yards from where Eccles play their home games, on Gorton Street.

The relationship between the two organisations began in the spring of 2021 after First Chop donated to Eccles RFC’s crowdfunding campaign which was started due to the financial pressures caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The brewery provided mixed cases of drinks to the club which proved popular with the Eccles faithful.

Eccles RFC is holding an Eccles Beer & Gin Festival, planned for late August, in hope of raising further funds for the club.

This provided ample reason for First Chop to further contribute to the club, with the brewery being involved in the upcoming festival.

Eccles RFC communications officer Chris Gaffey spoke of future plans the club has with First Chop Ales.

Gaffey said: “We were really appreciative when First Chop stepped forward to make a generous donation of beer to support our covid-recovery crowdfunder this spring.

“We’re also discussing plans for our first team home fixtures when the season kicks off in September. Now that restrictions are lifting, we’re looking forward to welcoming the First Chop team down to the club to enjoy the fruits of their labours, sat in the sun at the side of our pitch!”

Rik Garner, First Chop funder, spoke of his delight to be working with their local rugby club.

Garner added: “First Chop are chuffed to be working with our local rugby club, Eccles RFC. Like many, they’ve had a tough time during coronavirus and we’ve been happy to support them as they slowly open up again.

“We can’t wait to be part of the upcoming Eccles Beer & Gin Festival. We’ve got other plans afoot with the club and look forward to further announcements soon. Keep a look out on both of our social channels for updates!”

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