The TV crew arrived to set up at 3pm and very soon our main function room was transformed into a studio. Lights, cameras and scripts were ready - who were the stars?

At 5pm some Clifton 1st XV players turned up for some very special coaching and a challenge!

First up, Bristol Bears and New Zealand All Black, Stephen Luatua gave the boys some close-up coaching and the benefit of his professional and international experience.

Next, supervised by former Harlequins, England and British & Irish Lion player Ugo Monye, the brave band of players attempted the famous Shash-o-Meter challenge. Hitting a tackle sausage fitted with an accelerometer as hard as they could, the competition was on for team bragging rights and to set the first score of the Rugby Tonight’s season.

And the winner was.... winger Will Pomphrey (score 127).

I suspect we will never hear that last of it :)

The Members and invited guests started to gather and the clubhouse became packed for the start of filming at 7pm. It’s always a great buzz at the Club and this Monday evening seemed more exciting than ever.

On came the lights and the show started. Hosted by Ugo and co-star Sarra Elgan and joined by Stephen Luatua and fellow Bristol Bears player and Irish international, Ian Madigan.

Watching a TV show being put together is fascinating and there is no doubt that Clifton Rugby’s marvellous Members and Supporters created the perfect atmosphere for the recording.

Thank you to everyone who made the evening possible, we were excellent hosts for the show and the crew and stars were very complimentary. Thank you to the audience, you made us proud. Thank you to Bristol Bears for loaning a couple of superstar players.

Mainly, thank you to the amazing Clifton Rugby M&Js, senior players, coaches, Bisons, Committee, caterers, bar staff, cleaners and all the mums and dads. This was for you and I know you will be proud of our Club when this airs.

So when can you see yourself on the telly?

Wednesday 19th September 8pm on BT Sport 1 HD and 4K UHD.

#CmonClifton #LavenderAndBlack #Since1872