Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Rugby Football Union were today offered some respite from the chaos that has engulfed Twickenham by posting a record financial performance of £8.7million profit.
Revenue for the year from July 1 2010 to June 30 2011 increased by £24.3million from £112million to £136.3million.
Operating profit for the year was £40.6million, an increase of £14.8million on the profit of £25.8million recorded for 2009/10.
The retained profit for the year was £8.7million compared to a retained loss of £1.1million in 2009/10.
The growth is mainly driven by the match programme with increases also witnessed in most other revenue streams, especially broadcasting, sponsorship and hospitality.
"In a year which presented many challenges, this is a significant achievement," said acting chief executive Martyn Thomas.
"The RFU's record revenues mean that the game benefits because although the union works to maximise profits, unlike a PLC we then invest this in the sport.
"These results put us in a very strong position for the lead-up to Rugby World Cup 2015 which will bring a unique opportunity to grow the game nationwide, while creating a lasting legacy."
Any comfort taken from the balance sheet will be only fleeting as the RFU continue their mission to reverse the upheaval that has transformed them into a laughing stock.
Martin Johnson's resignation as England manager last week following a disappointing and controversial World Cup has placed the national team in limbo.
The RFU are also searching for a new chief executive, while director of elite rugby Rob Andrew has been strongly criticised for his refusal to step down after presiding over the demise of three England coaches.
For all the setbacks on and off the field, however, the RFU have managed to remain in robust financial health.
"The results are reflective of a solid financial and commercial base embedded over the past few years," chief financial officer Stephen Brown added.
"Securing record revenues and operating profit is particularly relevant for the current season when Twickenham Stadium has no autumn internationals and only two Six Nations matches.
"The strength of the RFU's balance sheet continues to grow and we will be in a position to comfortably repay the bank loan used to develop Twickenham Stadium's South Stand by December 2012."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments