Chichestee rugby is a family affair

During the first half of Chichester’s game against Tring, Nick Shopland came on at prop alongside his son Joe, playing hooker.

Muscular Nick is in his mid-40s and did not play rugby until his late-30s, although he had been a British judo team member.

Fair-haired Joe was in the top-rated Millfield public school first XV and then spent two years in Australia, where he played in a good grade of rugby and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Chichester director of rugby Paul Colley said: “A father and son playing in a first-team game at national three level is a remarkable achievement and one which may well be unique.

“We will ask the RFU if they believe it is a first.

“Nick came to rugby late and after a few seasons working the dark arts of the front row, he has been a regular firsts player. He agreed to keep match fit and be involved with the ones in a support capacity this season.

“It was a fantastic moment in Chichester RFC’s proud history to see Nick scrum down with his son – well done to both.”