Luke’s world record

Bridgnorth firefighter Luke Veal has secured his place in the Guinness Book of Records for his part in playing the longest ever rugby match. The 30-hour marathon match was played at Worcester’s Sixways stadium and Luke joined forces with colleagues from across the UK to raise £50,000 for the Fire Fighters’ Charity and military charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers.
“It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” said Luke, “The game, which was full contact, was played at pace from beginning to end. It calmed down slightly during the night but when the sun came up it was all guns blazing again. The other firefighters in the team were amazing and the banter and camaraderie got us through.”
Luke, who works for Bridgnorth Aluminium, is a retained firefighter for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. After rupturing a knee ligament while skiing, Luke was keen to support the Fire Fighters’ Charity which helped him recuperate. Bridgnorth Aluminium is match-funding funds up to £1,000.