Cornish Pirates Look to Restructure

Published On: 7 July 2025Last Updated: 7 July 2025By CornishStuff

A formal split could soon redefine Cornish rugby

A major restructuring of Cornish rugby looks set to take place, following separate Annual General Meetings held by the Cornish Pirates, the Pirates Amateurs, and Penzance & Newlyn RFC.

If approved, a proposed demerger would see Penzance & Newlyn RFC officially separate from the Cornish Pirates and merge with the Pirates Amateurs. The ‘Ams’ would then adopt the name of Penzance & Newlyn RFC and act as its 1st XV, competing this coming season in Regional 2 South West.

The Cornish Pirates, meanwhile, would operate independently, becoming a standalone voting member club of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and joining Cornwall RFU, while retaining their place in the RFU Championship – recently rebranded as The Champ.

Application to the RFU in Motion

An application has been submitted to the RFU for the demerger to proceed. The process so far has involved close consultation with both the Cornwall RFU and the Rugby Football Union, with thanks expressed to both organisations for their support.

The move would confirm Penzance & Newlyn RFC’s amateur status, making the club eligible for RFU funding, infrastructure improvements, and other associated benefits.

A Season to Remember for the ‘Ams’

At the Pirates Amateurs’ AGM, held at the Pirates’ Westholme clubhouse in Alexandra Road, Penzance, Chairman Jack Nicholas opened proceedings by celebrating the team’s promotion as Champions of Counties 1 Tribute Western West. He thanked everyone who had been involved over the years and noted the poignancy of what was expected to be their final meeting.

The proposal to support the demerger was backed by all in attendance, with Jack and other members of the ‘Ams’ committee set to continue their work under the new Penzance & Newlyn RFC committee.

Unanimous Support at Penzance & Newlyn RFC AGM

Following the Amateurs’ AGM, Penzance & Newlyn RFC also held its meeting. Chairman Peter Whyte, a former youth player who stepped up after Scott Dugdale vacated the role earlier this year, welcomed attendees and outlined the club’s progress. The resolution to proceed with the demerger passed without objection.

Peter shared best wishes to both clubs for the future and reaffirmed the benefits the change would bring.

Financial Stability and Youth Success

In the absence of Treasurer Lewis Adams, Martin Murrish gave a summary of the club’s finances. Sales are growing, costs remain stable, and recent investment has gone into the pitch and clubhouse. With no overdraft and sufficient reserves to fund further works, the financial outlook remains positive.

The Youth Section, represented by Euan McNeill, reported another strong year with full teams across all age groups. The Colts performed well in both league and cup competitions. Volunteer numbers are healthy, although more are needed, especially for the vacant Treasurer position.

Committee Updates and a Call for Help

Among the confirmed appointments was Phil Westren as President. A former player and Life Member, Phil thanked those present and all who have supported the club. Other committee appointments include:

Chairman – Peter Whyte
Treasurer – Lewis Adams
Vice Chair & Assistant Treasurer – Martin Murrish
Vice Chair Mini-Juniors – Euan McNeill
Vice Chairman Facilities – Rhodri McAtee
Vice Chairman Rugby – Jack Nicholas
Vice Chair Club – Joff Collins
Committee Members – Kelda Snell, Andrew Snell, David Faull, Des O’Connell, Adrian Bick, Lee Williams, Emma Simons, Ben Martin, Neal Turner, Mark Davey, Simon Murley