More than 300 players and supporters at St Neots Rugby Club (SNRUFC) fell silent on Sunday to remember the fallen of the First World War.

The club commemorated the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces on Armistice Day before the start of a tournament in which mini and junior squads hosted players from Olney Rugby Football Club.

Before the two-minute silence, all play ceased for club captain, Nick Ashford, to address the players and supporters.

Squads across all age groups joined arms at the front of the club house.

“I am very proud of all club members who came together today to honour those who sacrificed so much,” said Mr Ashford.

SNRUFC chairman, Jim Norton, added “We felt it was important to mark the centenary by highlighting to our younger generation, some as young as six years old, a personal connection to their sport. Whilst remembering all those who made sacrifices we recognised the 27 England RFU players who lost their lives in The Great War.

“One of those players, Edgar Mobbs, also played for Olney and we were honoured that some of their club members were with us to pay tribute on this important day. In the clubhouse we proudly displayed the names and photographs of the 27 players and servicemen who represented our country in a sport that unites us, and in military service that affords us the freedoms which allows us to play it. Furthermore a booklet of their biographies, written by Mick Haggar, was available for members to read. This provided detailed insights into achievements both in sport and action and commendations in war.”

Prior to the 2pm match on Sunday, the St Neots ladies team were joined by standard bearers from the St Neots branch of the Royal British Legion as they marked their act of remembrance before their league game against Welwyn Ladies.