The redevelopment continues at a pace, and nine new changing facilities are now fully functional, receiving many favourable comments from members and opposition alike. External works are also taking shape with again many positive comments, and excitement is building regarding the overall look and feel of the development. For logistical reasons the social space and bar areas refurbishment will now take place between the 19th October and the 13th November. The Paris bar area changes will follow that. During this 4 week period (which includes a contingency) the front and back bar area will be closed: service however will be maintained via a temporary bar in the Paris Bar and match meals will continue to be delivered via the kitchen.
Our shopping list for the “nice to have” items remains online for specific and related donations as does the legacy brick sales. We have sold 119 bricks, and since I last wrote to you have made significant progress against the remaining £20k fundraising target that was set. It would be fantastic if we were able to smash that target.
As I have said before it is important that we make the most of the opportunities our new facilities will allow. To that end I am delighted to tell you that I have been able to persuade Vicky Power to take on our full-time role of Hospitality Manager. Vicky brings a wealth of very relevant experience and has a long association with the club. Below is a message from her about how she sees the future. Let’s wish her well and engage with the change.
"An Exciting New Chapter for Trojans Bar! First off, a massive thank you to everyone for such a warm and fantastic welcome to the Trojans community!
For those I haven't caught up with yet, I bring over three decades of hands-on experience across the hospitality industry and training & development—starting with a hospitality degree many moons ago and, most recently, training work-based hospitality and management apprentices. I couldn't be more thrilled to bring that background home to help shape the next chapter here at the club.
What’s Ahead: The Refurb & Our Vision
It is a genuinely exciting time for the club's hospitality section. With our brand-new bar and coffee facilities currently being installed, we are gearing up to transform the clubhouse experience:
• All-Day Hub: We are aiming to open our doors throughout the day so you can drop in whenever you're at the ground.
• Evening Dining: We'll be rolling out a brand-new evening food menu to complement your visits.
• Events & Celebrations: Alongside the bar upgrade, our function room is also getting a fantastic refresh, and I can't wait to host your private parties, milestone celebrations, and club events in the future.
Join the Team!
With our expanded food and beverage offering on the horizon, we are on the lookout for Food Production Assistants and Baristas. If you—or anyone you know—are looking for some extra money and want to be part of an energetic new phase for the club, please do get in touch with me directly.
Here’s to great food, great drink, and brilliant times ahead at Trojans!" Vicky Power
Also important will be the future sustainability of the club’s infrastructure, and I am delighted that Ben Whinnett has agreed to be our director with oversight of facilities. He is already making a massive contribution, I am sure you will all notice the general tidying up around the site which he has already helped to orchestrate.
My next communication is likely to be a formal annual board report so please keep an eye out for that and the date of the AGM.