Welshman Elfyn now the toast of Twickers

But even for proud son of the valleys Elfyn Pugh it was no less thrilling.

With 50 years dedicated to Willenhall RUFC and Staffordshire rugby, the Welshman was presented with an RFU lifetime achievement award by England head coach Eddie Jones.

"It came as a bit of a surprise when I heard about it," the 82-year-old confessed. "But it was a superb moment and a great honour.

"What I've been doing is something I enjoy doing, I didn't expect payment or reward."

As well as picking up the award, Pugh was also given a tour of England's rugby union HQ, and he said: "That was fantastic. It's a great place and oozes wealth."

Pugh was nominated by the Staffordshire rugby union, for whom he has been carrying out coaching over 43 years.

And it was a reward for his service to Willenhall, a club he helped found from a local works team as a player and has seen rise to play in Midlands Three.

Married to Kath, Elfyn has lived in the Black Country for more than half a century.

He qualified as an RFU Preliminary Award holder in 1970 and coached at schools across the region.

Pugh has held every position at Willenhall from fixture secretary, secretary, vice-chairman, chairman and now president and served on a number of county committees.

He was also president of Staffordshire Rugby Union between 2002 and 2004.

His special day at Twickenham saw him meet not only Jones, who has transformed England's fortunes as they target New Zealand's world record of 18 straight wins – they're on 14 since the demoralising World Cup campaign under Stuart Lancaster – but also Sir Clive Woodward, who was in the commentary box.

"It was interesting to meet them both, as they've both had very good England teams," Pugh added. "I think Eddie's team is better than the one that Sir Clive won the World Cup with.

"As a Welshman I'm a bit jealous, but I have to say I think they'll be world beaters."