Pictured left to right are Dave Herriman, John Parle, Bill Beaumont, Peter Barrow, Dave Skinner and Ivor Lewis - just the tip of the iceberg (if that's the right word in the heat) of committed club people who turned up to congratulate and encourage our guests from Eastern Europe.

Bill Beaumont was quick to emphasise that he was here to represent the RFU as he doesn't take on his international mantle until 1st July; he explained to the visitors that the North West was the dominant home of English sport and this local area a traditional hotbed for Rugby of both codes, citing the Riley family as an example.

Diverting somewhat from his prepared script and watching Georgia's video, he commented that training had advanced since his playing days and the team's commitment should be an inspiration to all would-be players.

In response, the Georgian manager said that there was no Rugby club in their country with facilities which could match Widnes. On top of this, they very much appreciated the current local climate and, for most of the squad, it was a first experience of Lancashire Hot Pot.

The team had been met by a flag waving group of mini-juniors who subsequently carried on playing Rugby in the sunshine with musical backing from Halton Community Radio.

In the lounge, a slide show of the Wids Juniors 25 years was on loop with most attention paid to the 1999 U16s Lancashire Cup Final. Coached by Dave Lamb and Ste Field, this side had eleven players (including three club captains) who went on to represent the club at 1st XV level with many still Wids regulars. Let's hope the present Juniors and Colts follow the same route.

That particular set of photos is now available on the website albums. When I get round to it, I'll put the 1997 and 1998 finals on.