‘’Rushden and Diamonds – What is that?’’

Rushden and Diamonds Football Club were formed at the end of the 1991/1992 season between Rushden Town and Irthlingborough Diamonds, two clubs each with its own proud history and tradition.

Rushden Town Football Club was founded in 1889 and competed in the Midland and Northants Leagues before joining the United Counties Leagues in 1901. Apart from a short period from 1956-61, during which the side competed in the Central Alliance, the ‘Russians’ remained in the UCL until 1983, winning the Championship on 10 occasions. It was a bold decision to step up into the Southern League Midland Division and for a time it appeared that the club had over-reached itself, but seven years later it gained promotion to the Southern League Premier Division. However, after finishing in fourteenth place in its first season, Rushden were demoted to the Midland Division as the outdated Hayden Road ground failed to meet the required standard for the Premier Division.

Irthlingborough Diamonds Football Club was formed in 1946 and began playing competitive youth football the following year. After a lengthy association with the Rushden & District Youth and Senior Leagues, the club moved into the Kettering Amateur League in 1960, before joining the United Counties League 4 years later. In 1967 the ‘Diamonds’ won the Division Two title and were promoted into the top section where they remained until 1992. The Championship was won on four occasions – the last of these being in 1982-83. Other notable achievements  included exciting FA Vase runs, which took the team to the semi-finals in 1980-81 and 1983-84.

In 1991-92 both clubs faced an uncertain future and following lengthy  discussions with local businessman Mr Max Griggs regarding possible sponsorship, a merger was agreed. Rushden & Diamonds F.C. was formed with Max Griggs as chairman and representatives from the two original clubs in senior managerial positions. Roger Ashby was appointed as the club’s manager. Ashby had formerly enjoyed considerable success with Irthlingborough Diamonds and was the manager of Rushden Town prior to the amalgamation.