Penrith has announced that it has cancelled its traditional Christmas festivities.
After reviewing the recommendations from the RFU and the Government regarding the current COVID infection rate, the Winters Park club has decided to cancel the traditional Boxing Day game and festivities against Keswick on December 27.
Penrith said: “We have considered all possible options including that of just playing the game itself; restricting access to the clubhouse after the game, and asking supporters to only attend if they had carried out a recent lateral flow test but have come to the conclusion that even with these measures it would be neither practical nor responsible for us to proceed with what in essence is a large social event.
“We appreciate this will disappoint the large numbers of players and supporters who come from a wide area to participate and enjoy this traditional day out and this decision may not be met with universal approval, but the club’s first priority is the health and welfare of the community and at the present time any measures we introduce may not be sufficient to prevent the risk of extended spread of the virus.
“Our friends at Keswick Rugby Club are aware and agree with our decision and they will confirm their stance as regards the New Year’s Day game later in the week.
“This is not the way we would have wished to finish 2021, which has been a difficult year for all.”
The delayed Cumbria Cup semi-final between Aspatria and Penrith has also been put back again.
It was originally postponed from a scheduled free League weekend earlier in the season and left in the hands of the two clubs to rearrange.
The general consensus had been that a date between Christmas and New Year would have been a perfect slot.
However Aspatria said today: “Our intended Cumbria Cup tie against Penrith will now be relocated to a date well into 2022.
“However, with league fixture congestion mounting this is a game that will have to await its turn.”
