This snapshot of a very successful local rugby team brought memories flooding back for Corsham town councillor Chris Stewart, who was one of its members.

It shows the Chippenham Boys School rugby team who in 1972 were unbeaten for the whole season and went on to play together until 1977, when they were all about 16 years old.

Now 49-year-old Mr Stewart, of Katherine Park, Corsham, wants to be reunited with his old team mates to find out what has happened in their lives.

Former winger Mr Stewart said: “The team was set up by the sports teacher Gwyn Rees. We did so well that we went through the whole season without losing a game. We played across Wiltshire and Bristol and the team went on for a number of years.

“We’ve all gone our separate ways and a lot has happened since and it would just be interesting to get everyone together again to see where we all ended up.”

Mr Stewart has been able to name everyone but one in the picture, but he believes two players may have died since the photo was taken.

He’s kept in touch with four of the squad, Jason Harbour, Dave Lyus, Howard Kendal and Ezra Ledgister, but would like to hear word of the rest.

The 35-year-old picture was dug out by Mr Lyus, who runs a double glazing company, after a friend’s daughter spotted a copy hanging up at Sheldon School, the successor to Chippenham Boys School, and recognised him. He then showed it to Mr Stewart and the reunion quest was born.

Mr Stewart joined the Royal Marines in 1983 at the age of 21 and served until 1997. He went on to hold a series of jobs in project management and logistical planning and now works for the Department for International Development.

Reflecting on how the game of rugby has changed since the days he played, the father-of-four said: “Chippenham Boys was a very sporty school and back then we just played because it was what we loved to do and there was a certain amount of pride when you played for the school team.

“I think that attitude has changed a lot since then and nowadays there are youngsters that look at rugby as a career.”

Anyone able to help Mr Stewart reunite his old team mates should give him a ring on (01249) 700118.

Picture caption: The Chippenham Boys School rugby team from 1972 to 1977 made up of, back row, Phil Jones, Clive Harding and Mark Pidgeon, middle row, Will Kingham, John Killey, Jason Harbour, Howard Kendal, Chris Young and Gywn Rees, front row, Ezra Ledgister, ??, Paddy Linton, Dave Lyus, Chris Stewart (circled) and Mark Talbot. RIGHT: Former winger Chris Stewart today