THE Mercian Regiment joined forces with Widnes Vikings’ first team at the Select Stadium to train for their Armed Forces day rugby match against The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

Col Sgt Alan Boyle, of the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment, said: "We spent two hours training at the Select Stadium with the Vikings. 

"This makes a big difference.

"We had a massive match against the 1st Battalion Duke of Lancaster Regiment."

The teams played at Crosfields Amateur Rugby League Football Club  in Warrington as part of the Tom Sephton Memorial Trophy.

This was the fifth event held in memory of Private Tom Sephton, a 20-year-old soldier from Great Sankey, and member of the 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment who died in July, 2010, whilst serving in Afghanistan.

Tom was an outstanding rugby player and played for Crosfields.

All proceeds were donated to the army benevolent fund, The Soldiers' Charity.

Organisers wish to thank everyone for their generosity and support.