Oxfordshire's appearance at Twickenham on Saturday will hold a special memory for all those connected to the county's rugby scene - but for one person in particular.

Ron MartinRon Martin, a dedicated worker for both the Oxfordshire RFU, and the Oxford club for more than 20 years, loved every minute it.

"It was a fantastic day, and a tremendous occasion, especially for the lads," he said following Oxon's 27-8 defeat by Northumberland in the Tetley's County Shield final.

"Even though we lost, the players were chuffed about playing at Twickenham," he said. "There were no recriminations about losing, although I felt the luck didn't go our way."

The county owe a special debt of gratitude to Martin, who was appointed their team secretary in 1981, and has been doing the job virtually ever since.

The retired headteacher, from Long Wittenham, was allowed a couple years off when he became Oxfordshire president in 1995-96, but soon returned to the job - albeit with a grander a title of playing chairman under a revamped structure.

Last year, the proud Welshman stepped down, but still indicated he was willing to help out.

It took the county six months to find a successor in Henley's former director of rugby Tony Macarthur.

However, due to his heavy involvement with the Under 21 World Cup to be held in Oxon next month, Macarthur was struggling to devote the time he needed to the job.

He wanted someone to help with the admin.

Into the breach stepped the irrepressible Martin, despite suffering with his health.

To my astonishiment, I discovered that Martin is actually 83-years-old, but on Saturday he was still showing the enthusiasm and excitement of a teenager, as he walked proudly on to the famous turf for the official team photograph.

In the six short weeks, a few people worked very hard and effectively to take Oxon from nowhere to Twickenham - notably the team's coach John Brodley, who should be reappointed without delay, as they prepare to play in next season's County Championship proper.

But off the field, none played a more useful role than Martin.

Rugby and sport, especially in this so-called professional age, relies so heavily on volunteers like him.