PERSHORE RFC is looking to revitalise a local rugby championship 50 years after lifting the inaugural crown.

The Piddle Park outfit was the first winner of the Templar Championship in May 1969 with top brass now hoping to launch a similar contest.

Pershore chairman Richard George said: “Many social players today are put off taking part in this great game because life is very busy and travelling to and from matches is too much.

"The original Templar competition, I can say as a player, was a lot of fun between the local clubs and it’s clear that several other local sides might want to join in a modern-day equivalent championship.”

Pictured is Pershore's 1969 Templar winning squad.

Back row (L-R): Tom Pugh, Martin Herridge, Micky Knott, Bill Carey, Ken Matthews, Phil Thomas, Chick Peck, Peter Maple. Front row (L-R): Steve Payne, Peter Rice, Clive Howes, Ray Cropper, Roy Hirons, John Clarke and Roger Wilesmith.