'The Roughyeds kitbag' - New book looks back at Oldham RLFC during World War One

The Oldham RLFC line-up in 1914

The Oldham Rugby League Heritage Trust has announced the launch date for their new publication. “The Roughyeds kitbag - Oldham RLFC during World War One 1914-1918". 

Priced £20, there is an initial limited edition of 500 copies, packed with facts, figures and images.

The book, 192 pages and in full colour, is a chronological review of the running of the club during one of the darkest periods in the history of the country. 
 
Read how just finding 13 players to pull on the jersey became a major struggle with so many of the club’s personnel away in the services. 
 
There's poignant letters home from players and officials writing from the trenches, some filled with hope and some with despair.
 
Gauge how the mood of the country changed as the ‘home before Christmas’ attitude gave way to the realisation that the conflict would endure for years. 
 
Recall the bravery and sadness as some players were honoured and others were lost. 
 
There is also a detailed report, by the Oldham player Dave Holland, of the famous 1914 tour deciding Great Britain v Australia “Rorke’s Drift” test match, played in Sydney on the eve of the war.

Written just hours after the conclusion of the game, little did Dave realise that by the time he returned home the heroics of himself and his team-mates would have become the stuff of legend and the country would be at war! 
 
To order a copy please contact the Heritage Trust at: e-mail: oldhamrl1895@gmail.com.

Phone: 01457 810197.

All are welcome to the book launch event, which will be held in the foyer at Gallery Oldham on Saturday, October 13, between 10am and 2pm.

The Heritage Trust trustees will be in attendance, including the author Michael Turner who will be signing copies of the book.

Information boards relating to significant developments at the club during the World War One period will be on display. 

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