Club History

The coal industry came to Kent in 1912; Betteshanger started production in 1927 and was the last pit in Kent, closing in 1989.

Rugby was first played at Betteshanger in 1936, and was disbanded in 1939 at the outbreak of World War 2.

The club reformed in season 1948-49 when the Yorkshire and Lancashire rugby league enthusiasts combined with the Welsh exiles. They were highly respected throughout their 57-year history winning county 7’s championship twice, as well as Kent 2, Kent 1 and London Div.4 SE. A number of players achieving county honours.

Deal Wanderers started life as Walmer Wanderers in season
1958-59. The change of name came in season 1960-61.
The club has a strong association with the Royal Marines School of Music. The tragic IRA bombing in 1989 killed 11 students, all of who played for the Wanderers.
The whole community was visibly distraught and to this day a ceremonial match takes place.

Winning Kent Div.3 in season 2004-05 was a fitting preview to the amalgamation of both clubs

The Deal Betteshanger RFC ‘Lions’ with their all black club colours will turn out four senior sides playing in London Div. 3 SE, East Kent Div. 1, 2, 3, plus veterans.
The Youth section being made up of the Mini, Midi, Under 13, 15, 16 and  17's.