Bedford Blues’ new electric blue away kit for 2026/27 may be striking, but it also carries a significant message as it highlights the 116-year old Scrum Bar at Goldington Road, which is in dire need of renovation.
Now, the Blues have launched an ambitious fundraiser in order to raise money for the works, with £100,000 needed to keep one of Goldington Road’s oldest bars open heading into next season.
Bedford Blues have launched a Crowdfunder campaign in order to raise the six-figure sum.
Readers can find that page here.
“Not for closing!”
The Scrum Bar, which is directly behind the posts on the West Terrace, was opened in 1910 but now requires major works including a replacement roof, an upgrading to facilities and an improvement to accessibility.
The campaign, headlined ‘SOS’ which stands for ‘Save our Scrum’, will run for the entirety of this season with the aim to complete the necessary works over next Summer.
“We have been issued with advice from various inspections on what we need to do in order to keep the Scrum Bar doors open next year”, say Bedford Blues in the foreword published on their website.
“And we tell you…. The Scrum Bar is NOT for closing!”
“The Scrum Bar is more than just a bar. It’s part of our history, our fabric, our family. Everyone will have their own story.
“Maybe yours involves a pre-match pint, a celebration, a post-match gathering, a friendship made and many a memory created.
“This building is very important to us, and we want to see it at Goldington Road for the next 100 years, so we need to make it safe, welcoming, functionable and continue to be loved for years to come.”
Supporters who donate £100 or over will also see their name displayed behind the bar, with the Blues having already raised over £3,300 at the time of publication.
Bedford Blues’ first home Champ Rugby game of the new campaign is fast approaching, as last season’s losing play-off quarter finalists, Chinnor come to town on Saturday (26 September).
Mike Rayer’s side lost their first game at reigning champions Worcester last weekend, shipping six tries in a convincing 40-5 loss at the Sixways.
Read: Bedford Blues lose Champ Rugby opener at Worcester
The Scrum Bar will be open as usual for the whole of the season at Goldington Road, with supporters able to donate to the cause at the ground on matchdays as well as online.
