IT was a momentous occasion for a stalwart from Salisbury RFC who spent some valuable time with England international Mike Brown.

John Palmer was invited to meet the former Salisbury player and the England team at Pennyhill Park after being nominated by his club for the tireless work he has carried out for the club over the past 20 years.

The photographer, who travels home and away with Salisbury, was alongside fellow unsung heroes from Fylde, Dursley, Warlingham and Westoe RFC.

The group watched England train at the Surreybased ground and then Mr Palmer received a plaque on behalf of Salisbury from Brown, recognising that the Harlequins fullback started his career at Castle Road.

The event formed part of the 'England Connected' initiative, which has seen elite players and coaches lend their hands to grassroots clubs, strengthening the link with elite rugby.

Mr Palmer, specifically helping Salisbury in areas of publicity and photography, said it was a proud day.

“I was very pleased to be chosen by the club to go and collect the award, and was honoured to be able to represent Salisbury in such elevated circles.”

“The highlight of the visit to Pennyhill Park was meeting Mike.

“I was expecting to just grab a snapshot of him as he came off the training pitch, but the players had all been briefed and came to look for their clubs' representatives.

Mike spoke with genuine fondness about his days at Salisbury. He recalled several of the people who had coached him in those early days, such as Richard Larcombe and Richard Lloyd, and was pleased to hear that they are still involved at the club.”

“All amateur sport relies on the goodwill and support of lots of people to make it happen - not just in rugby or in Salisbury. Every weekend there are vast numbers of volunteers working hard to make sure that the players can enjoy their sport. I'm just one of those people - I do it because I enjoy it, and if the club benefits from it then we all win.”

Mike Brown said: “Playing for England is a huge honour, it's also a huge responsibility.

It's because of people like John that there are opportunities to be part of the rugby family. It's great that the squad recognises it's regional connection, rugby has given me so much and I'm proud today that I can give a little back.”

  • See Salisbury's report from the weekend on page 101.