It’s been a long old season — longer than usual. Breaks for the autumn internationals, the Six Nations, rest weekends, and an extended league calendar have stretched 2025–26 out by an extra six weeks. But as Steven Spielberg might say: “And cut… that’s a wrap.”

On the field, it’s been annus horribilis for Charlton Park. What began with optimism — a refreshed coaching setup, new faces, and genuine momentum — slowly unravelled. Injuries, unavailability, departures, retirements… the full bingo card. And yet, unlike many clubs at this level, Park have still managed to put out two sides most weeks, a testament to the depth, loyalty, and stubbornness that defines this place.

March saw the departure of Shae Tucker, who returned to Australia with Tayla to start a new chapter. His successor will be announced soon, but in the meantime Bill Sandison and Sam Spridell have steadied the ship and kept the group together.

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The Visitors: Heathfield & Waldron

We extend a warm Charlton Park welcome to the players, officials, and supporters of Heathfield & Waldron, making the trip up from East Sussex for the final fixture of the season.

They’ve had an excellent campaign, sitting 3rd and just a point behind Deal & Betteshanger. At the top, Old Elthamians have stormed to the title — back‑to‑back‑to‑back promotions, unbeaten for two full seasons, and over a thousand points scored in each. Whatever their past troubles, their rugby has been relentless. Congratulations to them.

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The Relegation Picture

At the other end of the table, the trapdoor is still creaking. Charlton Park are already confirmed for Kent 2 next season, but the final relegation place remains a two‑way scrap:

• Cranbrook must beat Crowborough
• AND hope Park House fail to beat Beccehamians

If not, they’ll join us in Kent 2 for 2026–27.

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Hursey Hollers …

“It’s a big day at the club with the final VP leaving lunch of the season. We’re expecting guests from far and wide — and if it’s half as good as the Christmas VP extravaganza, it’ll be a cracker.”

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Final Word

Charlton Park may be going down — only to Kent 2 — but we’re absolutely not out. The club is alive, kicking, and full of people who care. This season has tested us, but it hasn’t broken us. The rebuild starts now, and it starts together.

Let’s finish the season with noise, colour, and pride on Broad Walk.

Up the Park.