Gloucester Rugby is delighted to announce that club stalwart, Mark Atkinson, has been awarded a testimonial year to celebrate his contribution to Gloucester Rugby.

Atkinson joined the Cherry & Whites ahead of the 2014-15 season from Championship side Bedford Blues, and has made over 150 appearances for the Cherry & Whites to date.

An abrasive yet skilful centre, Atkinson earned international honours for England against Tonga in 2021. He also represented the Barbarians against England in 2019.

About to start his tenth season with the Club, 'Aki' is a fan-favourite at Kingsholm.

Atkinson missed the majority of the 2022/23 with a serious knee injury but is hoping to be back and firing in 2023/24.

Proceedings begin on Tuesday 29 August, with a Rugby World Cup rewind event at the Bacon Theatre at Dean Close School.

Join us at the launch of Mark Atkinson's Testimonial Year and together with Mark and special Guests including Mike Tindall and Phil Vickery watch extended highlights of that famous victory and listen to their reflections of that famous day as well as their thoughts on the forthcoming Rugby World Cup in France.

Doors open 6:30pm for 7pm start – 10:30 pm finish and a full bar and refreshments will be available.

You can secure your ticket for £25 here.

To keep up to date, follow @atkinsontestimonial on Instagram or check out the Mark Atkinson Testimonial website.

Atkinson is honoured to be awarded his testimonial year.

"I've loved my time in Gloucester and I can't believe it's been nearly a decade since I failed the milk challenge.

"I've made some great friends both on and off the field, and the fans here are something else.

"I'm looking forward to the fantastic events that the committee are organising and sharing them with my friends and the supporters of this great club, all to raise money for two causes close to my heart, Hope for Tomorrow and the 4Ed Campaign."

Gloucester Rugby interim Chief Executive Officer, Alex Brown, is pleased to see Atkinson be awarded his testimonial year.

“Since joining us from Championship team Bedford, Aki has very much made Gloucester his home and we are delighted to award him with a Testimonial year.

"Not many professionals achieve 10 years at one Club, and for that he can be very proud. We are hoping that his rehabilitation continues well and we see him in action in the new season.

"We're looking forward to supporting his testimonial events and I'm sure the fans will join us in giving back to someone who has given so much to the club whilst also supporting his two chosen charities."

Steve Jones, Chairman of Mark Atkinson's testimonial year added:

"We are very much looking forward to celebrating the career of a true Gloucester Rugby legend during the coming year . We will be hosting several exciting events during the 23/24 season that reflect Marks passion for rugby at all levels.

"Through these events we will be supporting Mark's chosen charities 4Ed and Hope for Tomorrow both of which have a very personal connection.

"The full website and programme of events will be launched shortly but in the meantime we would love for you to join us at our launch event on the 29th August details below.

"In the meantime if you would like to be first to hear of future events then register your details below to be placed on our mailing list

"The committee and I look forward to celebrating with you in the months to come."

Interview |

Mark Atkinson awarded Testimonial Year with Gloucester Rugby

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