RUGBY: STANFORD’S Russell Jackson has hung up his playing boots after 46 years.

And the weekend saw Stanford host a friendly retirement game to mark the end of the popular player’s career. The weekend was supported by more than 50 players, from Stanford, Thames, Brentwood and Old Brentwood RFCs. Friends from Stanford had invited the players to attend and the response was overwhelming. Known as ‘The Lord High Sheriff Hanging Judge Jackson of Stanford Le Hope’ Jackson was guest of honour at an after game party.

He received a signed playing shirt and a certificate to say he was now the official ‘Lord Russell Jackson of Wordsley Manor.’Jackson is a much loved, respected and dedicated rugby player.

He has always taken his rugby seriously.

And, over the years, has nurtured and tutored many a young player from youth to senior rugby, giving back to the sport in the best possible way with his time and committment. He will remain a prominent part of the Stanford Rugby Club committee, helping to steer the club onwards with his knowledge and his own personal style of leadership.