CREDITON was certainly put on the map when the Rugby World Cup Tour came to Crediton on Wednesday, July 8.

Hundreds of people went along to have their photographs taken with the Webb Ellis Cup and also to enjoy the local schools tag rugby festival and following commemorative rugby match between Crediton and Barnstaple.

A total of 16 teams took part in the schools tag festival, a team from Cheriton Fitzpaine proving the eventual winners.

The commemorative game was to remember a similar game played between the two sides on July 10, 1915 at Deolali, India.

The teams at that time were represented by members of the Devonshire Regiment who were sent to India to replace the regular Army soldiers that were required to serve on the Western front.

Devon Rugby Football Union decided that the visit of the trophy to Crediton would be a good opportunity to thank volunteers from all the clubs in Devon and two members from each club in the county was invited to attend.

The Webb Ellis Cup, rugby’s greatest prize, comes to this country after its successful International Trophy Tour.

The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour brings the cup to England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland for 100 days, before arriving at the tournament opening ceremony at the Twickenham Stadium on September 18.

Crediton RFC spokesman Paul Harris, said that the visit of the trophy was “a brilliant day for Crediton RFC”.

He added: “The hard work from so many certainly paid off and we have had so many compliments from everyone.

“I truly believe we are the only club in Devon that could have achieved such a successful outcome.

“Thanks to everyone who helped.”

David Butt said on “Facebook”: “Great day. Credit to ‘Kirton’ and true grassroots rugby, which is what World Cup should be about.”

Crediton Town Band played to welcome the trophy.

“ITV Westcountry News” filmed the visit of the trophy to Crediton, and in its broadcast showed the long queues of people to see it as well as footage from the tag festival and commemorative game.

Among those who had their photographs taken with the trophy was the Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Frank Letch and Cllr John Daw, the Chairman of Mid Devon District Council.

School teams, Crediton Town Band, rugby club supporters and members of the public were all thrilled to have the opportunity to have their photographs taken with the trophy but, there was a “No Touch” policy, only the winners of the trophy are allowed to touch it!