Oldham 1997
The re-emergence of a social XV Touring Side was the brainchild of Lyle Cairns back in 1997. On that occasion the destination was Oldham and a match was played against Dukinfield 2nd XV. This match, which the "Socials" lost 10-7 is memorable for two things; (1) the quagmire of pitch and (2) Stevie Gilmore's touchline conversion.
Duckinfield were great hosts in what is traditionally a rugby league area. Photographs were taken and it is believed the camera did make it back to Northern Ireland but unfortunately its present whereabouts or the photos remains a mystery.
The tourists were; Lyle Cairns, Paul Cairns, Brian Clinghan, Nigel Craig, Stevie Cross, Marc Eadie, Davy Edwards, Michael Ewbanks, Geoff Frazer, Stevie Gilmore, Austin Hewitson, Andy Jelly, Wayne Kerrigan, Alan McDowell, Leslie Mulholland, Geoff Mulligan, George Scott, Michael Sneddon and Cyril Woods.
1998 - Newcastle 1999 - Cardiff 2000 - Edinburgh 2001 - Netherlands 2002 - Isle of Man 2003 - Czech Republic 2004 - Uxbridge 2005 - Estonia 2006 - Blackpool 2007 - Germany 2008 - Devon