It is with a heavy heart that we are not renewing our Bath Rugby season tickets after 19 years of support.
As a family we have been staunch supporters, with seven seats for many years (five family and two office).
Sadly we are now down to two and we will not be renewing next year. Why, you may ask. Put simply, we don't enjoy it any more.
The standard of rugby is poor and the team clearly are clearly not up for it when they run out on many occasions. Last Saturday's clash at Twickenham is a case in point.
We are tired of too many Friday fixtures and games with TBA against the fixture schedule for many months. We have other commitments and this stops us from planning ahead.
The team selection merry-go-round means that from week to week we have no idea who will run out.
I would not be surprised to see a new director of rugby next season, when Todd Blackadder has had enough.
The facilities have always been poor and for the most part we have put up with this.
Missing the last five minutes of the first half and the first five of the second in order to go to the toilet and buy a beer is not how a Premiership side should operate.
In speaking to other season ticket holders, it is clear that we are not alone in our views. I am not seeking a response, to my note. However, I do feel strongly that after such a long period of loyal support, we cannot go silently into the night.
In closing, I wish Bath Rugby every success in the future. We will continue to support our team, unfortunately not from pitchside.
Niall and Christine Smiddy
Corsham
RESPONSE: The letter from Mr and Mrs Smiddy was also sent to Bath Rugby. The club's CEO, Tarquin McDonald, has called Mr and Mrs Smiddy personally to discuss the concerns they raised.
Following the call, Mr and Mrs Smiddy remain committed to not renewing their season tickets, however, they also remain committed to the club and said they look forward to enjoying future games at the Rec, albeit on a less-frequent basis, next season.
