And that’s a wrap — the curtain comes down on Charlton Park’s season under the same clear blue skies that opened it back in September. Fitting symmetry for a campaign that has tested us, taught us, and ultimately strengthened the resolve of everyone at Broad Walk.

Kick‑off was delayed by 15 minutes after the Heathfield team bus was caught in an accident nearby, leaving players to complete their journey on foot or by Uber. Even the referee was held up, so no harm done — just another quirk in a season full of them.

Before the rugby, the club hosted its final Vice Presidents’ Lunch of the year, with more than 80 guests enjoying lamb shank, wine, and a cheese‑and‑biscuits finale fit for royalty. Club chief Doug Hursey delivered an optimistic address about the future and paid warm tribute to outgoing President Andy Miller, who moves away this summer but will always remain part of the Park family.

Out on the pitch, the surface looked immaculate following recent sanding and vertical draining — perfect preparation for the County fixtures coming in May.

Charlton Park began brightly and with real intent. Despite the gap in league positions, Park matched Heathfield physically, competed well around the park, and held their own in the set piece. Three excellent tries — from Idris Hill, Dan “Blizz” Anderson, and Young Tevin — showcased exactly what this group can produce when they back themselves.

As has been the story of the season, fitness told late on. With legs tiring, Heathfield capitalised and ran in several late scores. But the effort, ambition, and attitude shown by Park were undeniable — and a clear sign of what’s possible with a strong preseason and renewed focus heading into Kent 2.

Elsewhere in the league, the final day produced its share of surprises. Old Elthamians’ perfect record fell at Ashford. Anchorians conceded 106 at Deal & Betteshanger. Dover didn’t field a side. Cranbrook won when they had to — but so did Park House. So Cranbrook join us in Kent 2 next season.

Preseason begins on the first Tuesday of July, with some players already eyeing earlier fitness work. Keep an eye on our social channels for our summer recruitment campaign.

Dates for the diary — Kent Games in May:

• Sun 10 May – U17 v Eastern Counties – 11am
• Sun 17 May – Senior Women v Surrey – 2pm
• Sun 24 May – U17 v Sussex – 11am
• Sat 30 May – Senior Men v Cornwall – 2pm

Training Sessions:

• Kent U17 – 3 May (9.30–12.30)
• Kent Senior Women – 29 Apr, 6 May, 13 May
• Kent Senior Men – 14 May, 19 May, 26 May, 28 May

Have a brilliant summer.
Up the Park. Deeds not words.