World's smallest RWC museum opens in Exeter

The world’s smallest museum dedicated to the Rugby World Cup in Exeter has been opened by two of the Exeter Chiefs stars who played a part in the 2015 tournament.

Hooker Elvis Taione and full-back Chrysander Botha helped to remember last year’s global tournament coming to the city, when they helped to officially open the museum, which is in the boardroom of Exeter PR, marketing and design firm Astley Media.

In the eyes of millions, Sandy Park and the City of Exeter were showcased in all its glory as five different countries battled for honours during three games.

Joining Elvis, who was part of the Tongan squad and Chrysander, who lined up for Namibia, was celebrity chef and Chiefs fan Michael Caines MBE, who was also representing the Chiefs charity, the Exeter Foundation.

Astley Media CEO, Marc Astley, who pulled the collection together said he wanted the legacy of the World Cup to live on.

He said: “This was an amazing event which is unlikely to happen again in our lifetimes. I wanted to source as much memorabilia as I could that related to the event in Exeter.”

The Astley Media collection includes a signed shirt from every nation that played at Sandy Park; signed and framed squad sheets from every game; a giant sign that welcomed visitors to Exeter International Airport and a range of promotional material.

Everyone is welcome to visit the museum for free, via booked appointments, but donations are requested to the Exeter Foundation.

A raffle is also being held in aid of the charity with limited edition RWC 2015 prizes up for grabs.

As a major supporter of the Chiefs, Astley Media is one of the sponsors on the Exeter Chiefs European Champions Cup kit this season.

Tweet @AstleyMedia to book an appointment to visit the museum.