Bath paper's campaign provokes controversy

The Bath Chronicle has launched a what is proving to be a controversial campaign to keep rugby at the city's Recreation Ground. There is a split in the community between those who wish to see the rugby club remain at the ground it has used since the 1890 and those who oppose it because it must comply with official requests to redevelop its stadium. In a letter to readers, the Chronicle's editor, Sam Holliday accepts that "not everybody agrees with our position" but urges them to understand the positive aspects of maintaining rugby in the heart of the city, claiming: "If Bath Rugby were to leave the Rec or our city, it would be a tragedy." Holliday tells me he has received some fairly hostile letters but believes he has made the right decision. One definite benefit is that the Chronicle (daily circulation: 12,000) has ensured that it is getting talked about with its agenda-setting "Keep rugby at the Rec" campaign. (Via Bath Chronicle)