Photo via BBC Sport

Saints drop plan for memorial wall for fans' ashes

Northampton Saints have called off their proposal to build a dedicated memorial structure designed to hold supporters' ashes. Originally intended as a feature within the updated fan village at Franklin's Gardens, the project was scrapped after early interest failed to reach the threshold required for long-term sustainability.

The Premiership rugby outfit confirmed that all individuals who previously purchased spaces will be issued complete refunds.

Club chief executive Julia Chapman acknowledged that walking away from the tribute was a difficult choice, expressing sorrow over the outcome while noting that proceeding without adequate backing would have been inappropriate. She conveyed hope that fans, despite their understandable disappointment, would grasp the rationale behind shelving the initiative.