A FREEZING cold York station did nothing to cool the excitement of scores of Ryedale rugby fans as they prepared to set off to the spiritual home of their sport.

Today was the day when Malton and Norton Rugby Union Football Club travelled to Twickenham and took on Cheshire side Holylake in the final of the Tetley Bitter Vase.

It was the biggest day in the club's history, and their fans of all ages were determined it would not pass them by.

"This is the stuff dreams are made of," said Hugh Cholmley, of Wintringham.

"In fact, some people may never have even dreamed of this. Twickenham is the Bible when it comes to rugby. We are going to have a great day out and hopefully see the cup brought back to Ryedale."

Eleven-year-old Chris Peace, of Malton, had an extra reason to be excited, as he was due to step on to the Twickenham turf himself.

"I play for the minis, and I am in the warm-up before the big match. I can't wait," he said.

- A match report was being posted on our internet site, www.thisisyork.co.uk, this afternoon, and full details of the club's big day will appear in the Evening Press on Monday.

Updated: 11:03 Saturday, April 21, 2001