Local Heros

St Helens RLFC was established in 1873, was a founder member of the breakaway Northern Union in 1895 and is the modern era’s most successful team.

The club takes pride in its active involvement in the local community and Chief Executive, Tony Colquitt believes that it plays an important role in defining the image of the area.

“We have a responsibility to play an active role in economic regeneration – both by representing the town in a positive way and by helping to make it a better place to do business. What is good for St Helens, is also good for this club”

Solution
St Helens RLFC joined the St Helens Chamber of Commerce five years ago, and Tony is convinced that by working together they can make a difference, “The Chamber is focussed on economic regeneration, for instance liaising with local planners and the council on inward investment and working to bring new companies to the area. It is also very good at helping existing business be more successful which in turn makes the area more attractive.”

Over the last 12 months the rugby club has been more proactive in engaging with the Chamber, a move that coincided with Tony’s arrival, “The focus now is on working in partnership for the good of the area.”

Outcome
Tony feels that a closer relationship with the Chamber is already bearing fruit, “Working with the Young Chamber has brought new impetus to our work with local schools. Equally, the chance to meet with local business leaders brings us closer to the issues whilst allowing us to secure or strengthen sponsorship agreements that
are good for everyone concerned.”

The club has also taken advantage of training and marketing resources available through the Chamber, “Our retail staff have attended customer relationship and negotiation training, whilst advertising in Chamber internal publications is a great way to reach the right people – local businesses.”