And no wonder the former England captain could not hide his delight at Twickenham last Saturday.

After all, not only had he just presented his beloved Lancashire with the county championship trophy named in his honour, but Beaumont had also seen half a dozen Fylde players – including his own son Sam – play a major part in the cup final glory at the home of English rugby.

As guest of honour at the game with his wife Hilary, Beaumont had seen Lancashire emerge worthy 32-18 victors over Gloucestershire to clinch the top county prize in the game, now called the Bill Beaumont Cup.

Beaumont presented the trophy to Steve Nutt, the Red Rose full-back and captain who played for Fylde last season, and shared congratulatory handshakes with Woodlands wingers Nick Royle and Oliver Brennand, half-back Craig Aikman, and forwards Kieran Brookes and Beaumont Junior.

Sam started all four matches in the second row as Lancashire beat Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Northumberland in style en route to the final .

Beaumont told The Gazette: "It was a great day for me and all the family.

"Without a doubt Lancashire were worthy winners, and it was pleasing that Fylde played such a prominent part, with their coach Mark Nelson in charge and a major Fylde presence on the backroom team.

"And with six of their players in the side, it shows that Fylde are going in the right direction and have some of the best talent in the county at the club.

"I was delighted to put my name to the cup because county rugby is important. Lancashire have taken it very seriously and have reaped the reward they deserved."

And Sam's success crowns a fine season to make dad proud.

He added: "Sam was there in his own right – because he is a good player and not because he is my son.

"He has had a very good season and is a keen player, and most importantly he enjoys it."