Today marks the first anniversary of the death of Durham University RFC President, Fergus King MBE. It is difficult to think that not only has a full year passed, but also that no Rugby has been played at our club.

Off the field however, much has happened to honour Fergus - including volunteering days, planning for a memorial event and most significantly, fundraising in his memory. Funds are now in place to allow the first Fergus King Presidential Scholarship.

1st XV Hooker Fred Davies will return to Durham this year and looks to continue his fine work on, and off the field. Fred was at the forefront of a large amount of the community work carried out in the City, and in particular the work at Durham City RFC - where facilities were refurbished during lockdown. It is this club and community minded approach which makes him the ideal candidate to receive the first Fergus King Scholarship. DURFC and The King family are therefore delighted to be able to support Fred in his final year at Durham.

I wish to extend my sincere thanks to all members of the 1875 Club for their kind support during this year and their key role in making this scholarship happen. It is hoped that with further support, this scholarship can continue in perpetuity.

As funds increase, it is our aim to set out criteria for this scholarship in conjunction with Aumni, family and friends.

Fergus King was a truly great man of Durham Rugby. He cared for his players and friends, and cherished this great club. We remember him with a smile and are touched that generations of Durham players have contributed to this scholarship in his memory.

Congratulations Fred Davies, and thank you to everyone who has made this possible.

Steven Colwell
President
Durham University RFC