The curtain may come down on Richmond RFC’s three year stay in the Championship this weekend, but that is not a reason to down according to the Club itself.

A heavy defeat at the hands of London Irish last weekend compounded the West London outfit to National League One next season, but this weekend as they face-off against old foes London Scottish at the Richmond Athletic Ground, it will be a time for celebration.

‘One Club’ is the ethos at Richmond, and in its long proud history as the second oldest open rugby club in the world, those traditions will remain.

“I could not be prouder of what this group of players have achieved in the last three seasons,” said Richmond’s Director of Rugby Steve Hill.

“When we were promoted, many told us we would not even compete.

“In three seasons in the Championship we have now beaten every team in the league except London Irish and Bristol.

“For a group of part-time players to have achieved that against full-time professional athletes says reams about the dedication, hard work and sheer cussedness this club possesses.

“Richmond is, and will continue to be, an open and fully functioning rugby club where next season its 1st XV will just happen to be playing in a different league.”

It is quite fitting that Richmond face off against their ground sharers London Scottish this weekend in the season’s final game.

Richmond Captain, Cam Mitchell, although obviously disappointed to lose their second tier status, insists they will want to go out with a ‘W.’

“We now have to finish the season and carry on moving forward in the Richmond Way!

“We’ve managed to maintain what is important to us - our club - and we couldn’t have done it without the fantastic support of the coaches, medical staff, club members and everyone involved and for this we are all truly grateful.

“I speak on behalf of all the players when I say it’s been an honour representing the club in the Championship and we all have a huge sense of achievement.”