STOCKTON'S 57-year-old old former Durham County prop Maurice Douthwaite has finally fulfilled a lifetime's ambition by playing on the same side as his grandson.

Devon Douthwaite, who has recently turned 17, was joined on the pitch by his grandfather in a charity match against neighbours Acklam.

While the Stockton club already has several sons and fathers combinations in their ranks, this was the first time that they have had a grandfather and grandson in a game.

Maurice and Devon were playing in the Rick Taylor Memorial game at Stockton's new Grangefield ground in a match held to raise money for the South Cleveland Heart Fund, playing their part in Stockton's last-minute 24-20 victory.

A raffle, auction and donations on the day meant the day raised over £2,100.

Tight head Maurice, who was recently awarded honorary life member status at Stockton, was a member of the Durham County team that defeated Cornwall in the County Championship Final at Twickenham in April 1989 and also a member of the squad which finished runners up to Yorkshire in 1994. He now plays for Stockton's third team and helps coach the Colts team of which Devon is a member.

Devon carrying the ball

Maurice anchoring a scrum

Maurice ( 5th from left) and Devon ( far right) the closest Stockton Players in support of the Stockton ball carrier(number 18)