Poly and Rob Hicks, a much loved couple at Leek rugby, were among the heroes celebrated at the recent Staffordshire RFU Volunteers Awards, held at Tamworth RUFC. They were sadly unable to attend on the night so the Leek girls section collected the award on their behalf.

Rob only started playing rugby in his early 40s, but loves the game so much he still turns out in his 60s - and was a member of the Vets squad that won the inaugural county vets tournament on Friday night!

His enthusiasm and commitment to the game has made him a stalwart at Leek and he is generous with both his time and money. He has helped to coach our extremely successful Colts team as well as giving private coaching lessons to his great-grandson Carson and the rest of our under 8s squad!

Behind every good man there is a strong woman, and Poly deserves every credit for her support of Rob and the club. She is always on hand to volunteer and offer help where needed, even though her health is not currently at its best, and she attends the club when she is able, always with a smile on her face and ever helpful hands.

Poly and Rob - Leek rugby salute you both. We don’t say it enough at times, but we thank you both for your endless commitment to the club.

In response to the good wishes from Leek members on the Big Leek WhatsApp group, Rob said: "Myself and Poly are truly humbled to have been nominated for something we love to do. We are proud to be a small cog in a fantastic large wheel of volunteers who are just as worthy of nomination for an award as we have been nominated.

"We look on Leek RUFC as “our club” and are proud to be part of such a wonderful club and have so many people we have become friends with because of this amazing club. We hope to be with you all for a long time to come. Thanks again… love to you all".