THE chairman of Tunbridge Wells Rugby Club believes former player Martin Corry will play an integral part in England’s efforts to retain the rugby World Cup on Saturday.

The 34-year-old has been named in the England side which will face South Africa and Roger Clarke feels Corry will be relishing this final more than the 2003 success in Sydney, Australia.

Clarke said: "He has said himself that at the 2003 World Cup he was more of a squad player. This time he has been a regular choice. He has had a tremendous tournament and we’re all so proud of him."

The Leicester Tigers back row forward first played rugby union for Tunbridge Wells minis before joining Newcastle Gosforth and later Bristol.

Clarke added: "He played mini and junior rugby before having a season and a half in the senior side. I remember the last game he played for us against US Portsmouth. We got demoted from London 2 South and he scored our only try of the game from within the 22-yard line."