ONGAR rugby club are Essex Vase champions and have brought a rare piece of silverware to Love Lane.

The Essex-based team romped to victory against Witham last weekend, in the competition final.

Ongar overturned a first-half 7-5 deficit with a flurry of second-half tries as they recorded a resounding 48-7 win.

Afterwards, captain Graham Bell said: “We were making it hard for ourselves and by half-time Witham were up 7-5.

“It’s a great way to finish off the season. Ongar, after so many barren years, have finally brought home some silverware.”

Speedy winger Ben Whateley-Harris crossed the line three times as he achieved a memorable hat-trick in the trophy final.

Dave Blake scored a brace, and Jeff Blake, Anthony Inkersole and Andy Surrage chipped in with one try each.

Peter Hovell and Steve Everson contributed two conversions each in a performance sure to live long in memories at the club.