A PUB in Christchurch is giving rugby fans the opportunity to win £1,000 and meet an ex-England rugby star.

To mark the start of the Rugby World Cup, The Sandpiper Greene King pub on Bure Lane has teamed up with rugby legend and sports pundit, Andy Goode, to launch a search for Christchurch’s biggest rugby fan.

As well as watching the match with the renowned rugby player, the chosen superfan will also have the chance to bring five of their mates to the pub with them with a VIP screening area reserved for them and unlimited food and beer. The lucky sports fanatic will also get the opportunity to join a sporting debate with Andy Goode on match day.

Anthony Dodd, general manager at the Sandpiper, said: “Nothing compares to watching the rugby in the pub surrounded by other fans, the atmosphere and comradery is fantastic!

“At the Sandpiper we will be showing all key games for the Rugby World Cup and to celebrate the start of the tournament we’re looking for Christchurch’s biggest rugby fan. We pride ourselves on being the home of pub sport in our local community with an unbeatable viewing experience of all the big games across major sporting events.

“So, if you live and breathe rugby and fancy £1,000 cash, as well as the chance to meet rugby legend Andy Goode, then we want to hear from you!”

The winner of the competition will receive £1,000, a VIP screening of the England vs Argentina match on 5 October at their local pub, as well as the chance to meet Andy Goode.

Andy Goode added: “The Rugby World Cup 2019 is finally upon us and it’s great to see fans across the country getting behind their home team. I can’t wait to meet the biggest rugby fan in the community and look forward to raising a glass with them on match day.”

To enter, locals can simply visit https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/try-your-ruck-competition and explain in less than 100 words or less why they deserve the title of Christchurch’s biggest rugby fan.