January 14th 2008

It is with great regret that the Club has received, last Thursday, the immediate resignation of Richard 'Dicky' Evans after almost 13 years as President of Penzance & Newlyn RFC.

This decision has been brought about by the unremitting attacks, both publicly and in private, on Dicky and the Cornish Pirates vision in general and their success, by current and former members and players of Penzance & Newlyn RFC. What is reported in the media is merely the tip of the iceberg. He has had to spend the last few years in particular taking knives out of his back and now feels that enough is enough.

The Cornish Pirates have become the victim of their own success. Their achievements generated by many hardworking, decent people on and particularly off the field, with his support and that of other excellent sponsors and supporters, have seen their success denigrated by a chosen few who have become increasingly vitriolic in their statements both publicly and privately. There are no secrets and much of what is said is passed to him by many good friends.

Dicky has confirmed that he will honour all existing contracts for this current season and 2008-09 for players and also administration staff.

However it is now time for the Pirates Members to plan for the future without him as President. We will shortly be calling an EGM to elect a new President and Notice of this will appear as soon as practicable.

This is a very sad day for me and the Club, but Dicky has left us with a legacy and vision for the future on which we must build. This is a major watershed and we look to the continuing support of all our valued Members and supporters as we move forward in pursuing the opportunities afforded to the Club to achieve the dream of bringing Premiership rugby to Cornwall.

Rod Coward
CEO