This column is not given to sweeping statements but it seems that the old pastime of collecting programmes is not as widespread amongst supporters, in a rugby context, as it used to be. Where once the programme resembled a badge of honour that proved a presence at a certain game it seems now that the general public are no longer interested.

At the recent Heineken European Cup match between Leinster and Edinburgh Reivers at Donnybrook last Friday night; a crowd of 6,500 or so shoehorned itself in the venue. But only 1,200 programmes were snapped up. Rather than an aberration, this column has learnt that this is a standard figure.

Even the Leinster Schools Cup Final, which boasts great support in terms of attendances, would manage to only shift about 2,000 programmes. Is it a question of value for money? What would you like to see included in programmes? E-mail this column at josullivan@irish- times.ie with your suggestions, the best of which will be published next week.