Gilbert, the oldest
makers of rugby footballs in the world, has launched an Internet website to provide
information on next year’s Rugby World Cup and attract new visitors to the home of
the sport.
At the touch of a button, rugby fans across the world can see details of the
tournament, including a venue map, information about the Gilbert museum or even order
Gilbert merchandise.
The firm, official supplier of match balls for the World Cup, hopes the move will
encourage people to visit its museum which is just yards from the spot where the game was
first played in 1823.
Jamie Hassard, the company’s development manager said:
"We may have been around for almost two centuries, but we believe in moving with
the times. The Internet is the most cost effective way of reaching a worldwide audience.
"During the World Cup we plan to show latest scores and other rugby football news.
The site should also bring more visitors to our museum."
More than 10,000 people have visited the Gilbert museum at its factory in the town to
see craftsmen demonstrating how a rugby ball is made. Memorabilia on display includes
items donated by Jonah Lomu, Ieuan Evans, David Duckham and many others. Admission is
free.
