Fans of rugby received a special treat on Saturday 7th October when Old Bedfordian ‘Budge’ Rogers OBE returned to the School to talk about his new book. The Biography entitled ‘Budge Rogers: A Rugby Life’ was written by author Philip Stevens and covers Budge’s career from its early beginnings at Bedford School and later when he went on to play for Bedford Blues, England and The Lions
Budge spent the first part of the day talking to and answering questions from a very enthusiastic group of boys from the Prep School. He delighted and inspired the boys with his tales and encouraged them to persevere in their efforts with the game.
Following his visit to the Prep School, Budge went on to meet the 1st XV in the Memorial Hall. He was delighted to meet the boys and wished them luck in their game against Dulwich at home later in the afternoon. The School has a long history of playing against Dulwich, and Budge was able to share some of his memories of playing against them.
Parents, OBs, Past Parents and friends had the opportunity to meet Budge at a Pre-match Rugby Lunch, where he spoke briefly about the book and explained that he will be donating all the profits from the sale of the books to the RFU charity for injured players, a charity that is very close to his heart. Budge was delighted that his fellow first XV players Roger Dalzell (48-57) and John Hockey (49-57) were able to join him at the lunch.
To finish his day at the School, Budge stayed to watch the 1st XV play and met more parents at the post-match teas. It would be nice to think that his talk with the 1st XV inspired them as they went on to win against Dulwich 27-8. Full details of all the results over the weekend can be found here.
Throughout the day Budge signed copies of his book, many of which were purchased as Christmas presents for friends and family members. If you would like to purchase a signed copy of Budge’s Biography, then please download this form, and return it, along with payment, to Bev Marshall. We will then arrange for Budge come in and sign the book for you.