Sutton & Epsom RFC’s honorary secretary Kevin Mohr says it is only right that the club signed up to the Centenary Field programme.

The Cheam-based sports club are the first in the UK to commit to the World War I commemoration programme created by Fields in Trust and The Royal British Legion.

Launched in 2014 by Fields in Trust president HRH The Duke of Cambridge, the programme aims to protect clubs’ facilities and green space from future development.

Mohr and club skipper Gavin Mcllreavy were at Twickenham last week to accept a plaque from Fields in Trust ambassador Sir Clive Woodward OBE to show their dedication to the programme, which will be ratified in the coming months.

Mohr said: “When you read about the sacrifice made by club members 100 years ago, it is only right that our club should honour their memory by ensuring that our playing fields are still there in another 100 years.

“We are pleased to be involved with Centenary Fields as a fitting way to mark our heritage and the players of 100 years ago.”

Sir Clive added: “‘Grassroots sports grounds are so important to nurturing the sports stars of tomorrow and giving people somewhere to enjoy sport.

“This Fields in Trust initiative is a unique and fitting way for sports clubs with a connection to World War I to protect their grounds for future generations to enjoy.”