As a rule I am no fan of watching rugby in football stadiums. They are usually empty, soulless and policed by surly stewards used to treating supporters as inconveniences to be suffered rather than the reason for their own existence.
There are some absolute shockers too. Vicarage Road, the dilapidated and ramshackle home of Watford FC and Saracens, must be the worst venue in the country for the paucity of the surroundings.
Edgeley Park and its non-existent parking, the Madejski Stadium and its distant view and Meadow Lane, probably the least enjoyable match-day experience in rugby, unfortunately make trips to Sale, London Irish and Nottingham something to be endured rather than enjoyed.
So it was with more than a few misgivings that I went to Damson Park on Sunday to see Bees begin their groundshare arrangement with local non-league football team Solihull Moors.
That is not to say the case for leaving Sharmans Cross was not extremely convincing.
The facility had a lovely homely feel but the reality of professional sport made staying there inviable – even if it was an option, which an ill-fated dalliance with a property company made sure it wasn’t.
So what of Damson Park? Certainly from a commercial point of view it’s a step in the right direction, if only because of the ludicrously expensive £5 parking charge.
With a lack of other options for leaving a vehicle the club have clearly identified a captive market but they should be wary about pumping this particular cash cow for fear of turning punters off.
Inside, though, the bars are cosy and while the real ale connoisseurs grumble about the beer on offer, generally the average supporter is well catered for in terms of food and drink.
Rather amusingly, however, it appears at least one of the changing rooms is no bigger than those on offer at the old ground, although knowledge of how to use the slope on the splendid playing surface should eventually confer considerable home advantage.
And the press box, I hear you ask? Having just unwedged myself I am happy to report the presence of electricity.
Now that’s an improvement.
