IT is ten years since a lowly Malvern Rugby Club side from the lower reaches of North Midlands Two went on a long trek which ended at Twickenham and the lifting of the Pilkington Shield by skipper Andy Ridley.
Three and a half thousand Malvernians made the trip that day to see them take the trophy against Old Hamptonians and fans will have the opportunity to see the victorious team in action once more this weekend.
Some of the day's heroes are a little thicker round the middle, a little greyer at the temples, but they will be taking the field again at 3pm this Saturday at Spring Lane.
Some of that side are still playing for Malvern first XV, having journeyed upwards through five leagues -- Gareth Richards, Steve Cooper, Andy Ridley, Darren Handy and Adie MacBurney -- have all having turned out this season.
Others have long since hung up their boots, but the bond between them is so strong that the old warriors are prepared to do battle again. This time the opposition will be a "Golden Oldies" select XV from players in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
Most are of similar vintage to the Malvern side.
Invitations have been sent to players from clubs in the two counties, the aim being to field a squad of around 25, so they can each take turns to have a breather.
In addition to the action on the rugby field, their will be plenty for all the family, with bouncy castles, competitions, a pig roast and barbeque, with live music later in the day, plus refreshments and soft drinks available throughout the day.
A lucky programme raffle will be held with a donation from the proceeds going to the County Air Ambulance - the programme itself will be a collector's item, including reports on all the games leading to the Twickenham final.
There will alsobe a display of photographs taken during the Shield run and constant video replays of the final itself.
The players are hoping that many supporters will take out their Twickenham memorabilia from the attic to wear and re-create the fun of a decade ago.
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