Ventnor Rugby Club Celebrates 50 Years With Red Funnel Support

Ventnor Rugby Club is celebrating 50 years of bringing Islanders together through sport — with support from Red Funnel helping the club look ahead to the next chapter.

The club, based on the south-east coast of the Isle of Wight, has spent five decades creating opportunities for players of all ages to get involved, while also supporting coaches, volunteers and the wider community.

The anniversary comes during one of the most successful periods in Ventnor RFC’s history.

In recent seasons, the club has been crowned Hampshire Counties 3 champions, secured promotion to Counties 2, reached the semi-finals of the RFU National Community Plate, and helped six players earn selection for Hampshire Men’s and Under-20 squads.

At one point, Ventnor had more players involved in the county programme than any other club.

The success follows years of dedication from players, coaches, volunteers and supporters — but Island clubs continue to face extra challenges compared to mainland teams.

Travelling to away fixtures means additional costs and planning, with every match involving a journey across the Solent.

To help with those challenges, Red Funnel supports Ventnor RFC through its Proud to Support programme, which provides travel assistance to 42 Island teams, ambassadors and talented individuals each year.

The support has helped Ventnor invest in developing players, improving facilities and strengthening links with the local community.

Club chairman James Morton said the partnership helps remove a major financial pressure.

“Red Funnel's support takes away a huge financial burden, allowing us to travel to fixtures without the extra cost to players or the club.

“It also gives us the stability and confidence to focus on what matters most.

“Our ambition is to build a club that is competitive, sustainable and recognised as one of Hampshire's leading community rugby clubs, while staying true to the values and community spirit that have defined Ventnor RFC for the past 50 years.”

Red Funnel chief executive Fran Collins said the ferry operator was proud to support organisations making a difference across the Island.

She said:

“Red Funnel is committed to supporting the communities we serve, and part of this is supporting local teams and talented individuals to achieve their goals and dreams.

“Ventnor RFC is a fantastic organisation, and we're very happy to support the club as it looks ahead to its next chapter.”

Applications for Red Funnel’s Proud to Support programme will reopen in November.