OLD Otliensians may have been formed in 1927, but they have never enjoyed a day like last Sunday.

The Yorkshire Division Three runners-up triumphed 32-21 in the RFU Junior Vase final at Twickenham – the first of four finals on the day – withstanding a stern second-half fightback by Devon's South Molton in the lunchtime sunshine.

"It was the greatest day in the club's history," said Ensians' match secretary John Churchman, "and we will probably never see another like it.

"It was a beautiful day, we played really well and I still get quite emotional now thinking about our club flag flying high at Twickenham.

"Now we are negotiating with the council to have it on top of the maypole in Otley."

If it was a memorable day for Churchman, it was probably even more so for Ensians' 91-year-old club president George Leach.

Churchman added: "It was great that George was able to be presented to the teams beforehand alongside South Molton's club president Trevor Frost and RFU president (also Wharfedale RUFC president) John Spencer.

Ensians' recruitment officer John Harrison said: "George also attended the after-match function, where John Spencer spoke very well.

"George was a bit reluctant to speak at first but talked for about five minutes about how great it was that grass-roots rugby was allowed at Twickenham.

"George then went off to stay with his sons in London, but the players, officials and supporters then went on to Twickenham Rugby Club until about 7pm and we got back home about midnight."