BEN Steele, already Otley’s record league appearance maker, racked up another milestone in last Saturday’s 26-26 SSE National League Two North draw at home to Caldy.

The 31-year-old made his 250th league appearance, and two other Otley stalwarts have been keen to praise one of their own, with former director of rugby and rugby chairman Mike Wright writing in the programme: “You know my view of hookers.

“They are best when abrasive, aggravating buggers – it brings out the best in the props and all those behind.

“Ben met that criteria and has stayed the course very well at the sharp end for many seasons at Cross Green.

“Anyone who sticks his head in the front of a scrum with both arms behind his back for more than ten seasons deserves a medal!”

Peter Clegg – another former director of rugby at Otley – was also effusive in his praise for Steele, saying: “I’m delighted to congratulate Ben on this outstanding achievement.

“To play 250 games, especially at hooker, with one club deserves all our congratulations.

“Ben’s commitment to Otley’s cause has never been in doubt and I’m proud to have been involved with Ben’s early development with the Otley first XV.”

Former Cross Green junior Steele made his first-team debut on November 15, 2003 at Henley in what is now the Greene King IPA Championship.

Steele, who has never been tempted to stray from Otley, remembered the day clearly.

He said: “I was nervous beforehand – all I could think of was the line-out. But I got 100 per cent in that match and I think I got 100 per cent against Caldy. Mind you, I haven’t got 100 per cent in all 250!”

Steele added: “I never thought I would make 250 league appearances when I started – 100 maybe – and as for the future, I am taking it one season at a time!”

Otley are at 13th-placed Hull tomorrow and are hopeful of a fifth away win this season.