Southport RFC Under 10s player Caden Hughes is to present the Vin Hughes Memorial Trophy to the winners of the Lancashire Under 16s Vs Cheshire Under 16s County match. The Hughes family donated the trophy in memory of Vin, grandfather of Caden , who sadly passed away suddenly twenty-five years ago.

Vin always had a passion for rugby and was a talented fullback and kicker in his day, one season kicking 125 goals! His playing career was cut short due to injury which prevented him playing contact sport but wanting to be involved refereeing the then followed.

His vigour for the game led him to putting together a then unheard of Ladies-only team at Newton-Le-Willows RUFC to play against the First XV to raise money for charity.
On the back of the massive success of this game and with a 7 year old son Gareth who wanted to get involved, Vin then set up Newton Mini and Junior Rugby which grew week on week to become a very successful outfit.

He also became interested in County rugby running the Lancashire U15/16s sides at this time leading to him taking on the role of Chairman of the Junior section of Lancashire RFU. On the home front Vin was very proud when his Gareth, who now helps coaching with Southport U10’s, also made to County level rugby on the pitch.

Vin’s considerable achievements and contribution to the game tragically cut short in 1992 at the all too young age of 53 thankfully have not been forgotten with games in his memory at Newton and the Memorial Trophy in his name.

His enduring legacy to the playing the game is now manifested through Caden Hughes who is continuing his grandfather and fathers promise in the Southport Minis set up last year winning the the Under 9s Club Player of the Year Award. Who knows? Maybe in 6 years’ time Caden will be lifting the trophy dedicated to the memory of his grandfather as a victorious Lancashire player. What a proud moment for that would be!

The Hughes family is extremely grateful and proud that Lancashire honour Vin to this day. Southport RFC too that is lucky to have such heritage within the ranks.