The ageing facilities of Overstone Road were becoming increasingly inadequate for a club of Harpenden’s size and the hunt started for a new ground in the 1950s. It wasn’t until 1964 that the club sold it’s existing ground for development to build a new, at that time, state of the art clubhouse on Redbourn Lane on the outskirts of town. The new clubhouse opened in the 1964/5 season with 3 pitches, a brand new 5,000 sq ft clubhouse and a grandstand; a far cry from two muddy pitches and two huts.

Two more pitches, a training area and a car park were added over the next few years. Two squash courts were completed in 1968 with a third added in 1974 and additional accommodation added in 1979. The provision of squash courts allowed the Harpenden Squash Club, previously without a home in the town, to have a base.

1966 may be a year that remains immortal amongst English football fans, however for fans of the oval ball in our Hertfordshire town it remains etched into the memory as the inaugural year of the National Pub 7s.

In that era - some 20 years before the advent of leagues, the game was heavily regulated by the RFU. No rugby on Sundays and no games allowed before the end of September. To sidestep this rule, some of the HRFC players with support of Reg Johnson, landlord of The Cross Keys and a handful of other local clubs arranged a fun 7-a-side competition. With each team borrowing the name of a local hostelry, hence on 17th September 1966 The National Pub 7s was born.

Over the years the tournament has grown in size and status and still retains its position as one of the biggest in the country. In the halcyon days of the 70s and 80s up to 80 teams were present with some of the biggest names taking the field at Redbourn Lane. Although the overall number of teams has decreased recently, they still span the spectrum from the serious to the very social. Along with the inclusion of the Women’s Hen 7s tournament 12 years ago, August bank holiday Sunday remains one of the first dates pencilled into the rugby diary each season.

Another key event in this period was the establishment of a mini and junior section. It is difficult to imagine our club without this thriving and lively section these days. However, outside of schools, not a great deal of rugby was played.

Over the decades intrepid parents and volunteers have shared their enthusiasm for the sport with the youngsters of Harpenden. The club now bursting at the seams on Sunday mornings and weekday evenings with all age groups.

The section has gone on to provide enjoyment for thousands of young people and has nurtured talent that has gone on to represent the club’s senior sides, Hertfordshire County, the London & SE region, England, The Barbarians and The British & Irish Lions. The legacy of which can be seen adorned on the clubhouse walls with great pride.

The modern era of league rugby and the advent of professionalism beckoned for the club and with it came great opportunity.

As we build towards our centenary celebrations, the club is keen to hear from members past and present who may have stories, memories, memorabilia or documents that they would like to share.
If you have anything that may be of interest or would like to be involved please contact Ian Cumming (secretary@hrfc.com) or Peter Danby (president@hrfc.com)