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Old Richians and Old Cryptians lock horns in annual Boxing Day games

Author: Roger Jackson, Posted: Thursday, 25th December 2025, 09:00

Old Richians hold the Horns

A good crowd is expected when players from Old Richians and Old Cryptians go head-to-head in their annual Boxing Day bonanza.

It’s a tradition that stretches back more than 50 years and sees the clubs’ 1^st XVs compete for the Horns trophy.

There will also be a 2^nd XV game, with both matches at Old Cryptians kicking off at noon.

“Old Richians hold the Horns for the first team, and Old Cryptians, the second team Antlers,” said Old Richians president Pat Strutt.

It’s a special day for both clubs.

The first Horns match took place in 1972 in what was a memorial game for Old Richians second row Mike Longney, who died in a building accident, at work, at the age of 30 in October 1971.

“The Horns were donated by Mike's brother Maurice, he was a butcher in Gloucester,” said former Old Richians prop Iain Morris, who is now secretary.

“Maurice didn’t play rugby but he went on to become a referee.”

Mike Longney was a very popular figure at Old Richians and his loss was felt deeply by everyone at the club and the wider rugby community.

“Mike’s influence continues to be recognised each Boxing Day morning,” said former Old Richians chairman Keith Ray.

“He was best man at my wedding in 1969 and a huge influence on my life.

“He left behind wife Joyce and son Greg, who was just a few months old at the time. They have subsequently emigrated to Australia and Joyce still keeps in touch with me, Greg is the spitting image of Mike.”

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Old Richians and Old Cryptians lock horns in annual Boxing Day games

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