After considerable work across the Club, Bath Rugby’s detailed submission to the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has been successful following assessment by both DCMS and Premiership Rugby.

The fixture has been selected by DCMS as part of Phase 2 of the pilot programme to return spectators to sporting events.

This follows the successful initial pilot match at the Stoop, the first rugby union fixture in England to welcome spectators, in which Bath triumphed 27-41. A further pilot match took place between Gloucester Rugby and Harlequins at Kingsholm Stadium on Monday (14 September).

Following the selection by DCMS, Bath Rugby are working closely with Bath and North East Somerset Council to secure all necessary approvals.

Bath Rugby Chief Executive Tarquin McDonald said: “We’re delighted to be hosting the third pilot event in the Premiership. A great deal of work has been going on behind-the-scenes to ensure our submission was the best possible to welcome spectators back to the Rec for the first time in 205 days.

“We are privileged to be playing a significant role in the path towards returning spectators to grounds across the country and not just bringing the joy and excitement of live sport back into people’s lives, but also working towards the larger crowds that are crucial to the sustainability of clubs following the financial impact of COVID-19.

“The safety of our supporters, players and staff is paramount as we look forward to welcoming our loyal Blue, Black and White back.”

Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper added: “Since rugby’s restart, we have played seven fixtures, six of which have been behind closed doors and in every single game, particularly at the Rec, we have felt the absence of our supporters.

“As a group, we have spent a lot of time creating energy in the awareness there weren’t going to be crowds. There are times when you expect to hear the crowd roar, and it’s not there. It will be great to have supporters back, and it’s hugely exciting to be playing in front of a small crowd at the Rec.

“It is particularly special that our supporters will be back for a local derby against Gloucester Rugby. We couldn’t have wished for a better fixture to have our Blue, Black and White supporters back at the Rec.”

More information

All Season Ticket Holders will automatically be placed into a ticket selection ballot and those who are successful will be notified on Friday 18th September.

More information on this process can be found here.

Bath Rugby to welcome 1,000 supporters for local derby against Gloucester Rugby

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