UPTON Rugby Club has begun its 25th anniversary season.

Celebrations officially kick off this weekend at a Rugby Shirt Ball, where smart dress will definitely not be required.

The club, formed by players from existing clubs and local residents, played its first match in the 1980-81 season.

Known at this point as The Anchor, they convincingly beat a team from the Lamb and Flag in Worcester.

Current president Chris Carkeek was the club's inaugural captain. He said: "We were unbeaten in our first season, although we did only play two matches!"

Mr Carkeek feels the club has stayed true to its roots.

"Everyone still mucks in and that's how we want to keep it. It's a club for everybody," he said.

Nigel Banwell, also involved from the start, credited the club's social activities for its longevity.

"We have a good reputation for being sociable and welcoming amongst ourselves and towards other teams," he said.

The club has also enjoyed success on the pitch. A National Junior Cup run in the late nineties took them to within two matches of a Twickenham appearance.

Mr Banwell hopes the next 25 years will be equally successful.

"We're always looking to recruit locally for people who want to have a bit of fun as well as playing rugby," he added.

The the biggest change is in the level of professionalism shown on the pitch. At the outset, warming up for matches was not of great concern.

"We'd bang heads together and then get on and play," said Mr Banwell.

Now the players warm up for a full hour before a match.

"The sport has definitely adopted a more professional attitude", said Mr Banwell.

Tickets for the celebrations tomorrow (Saturday) are £10 on 07747 594442.