THEY did it! Malton and Norton RUFC took the Tetley's Bitter Vase in some style at Twickenham on Saturday. The celebrations started at the final whistle and are still continuing.

Quite right too. The players deserve every pint. In purely sporting terms, their victory was a tremendous achievement. But they did more than storm their way to silverware: they lifted Ryedale's spirits.

That fact was acknowledged by dignitaries in their generous tributes to the team today. To which we add our own: well done to the fans who gave such wonderful support and many congratulations to the club for a magnificent triumph.

Updated: 10:21 Monday, April 23, 2001