WELSH Guardsmen provided the guard of honour for the two international rugby matches held at Parc Eirias last Friday.

Both the Welsh Women’s and the Under 20s international teams played against their French opposite numbers, and a group of specially selected Guardsmen, all of whom originally come from North Wales, were on parade.

Sgt Pete Duffy, who comes from Llandudno Junction and who was in charge of the Guardsmen said: “It was an honour for the lads and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves as well as having the opportunity to see the matches and have a weekend at home.

“But we were disappointed that neither of the Welsh teams won their matches.”

While practising the guard of honour drill, the Women’s team appeared for a practice session. The lads met them all and had some good fun passing a rugby ball about. Pete added: “We saw how good they were, and their ball handling skills completely outclassed us.”

Both matches were won by the French teams, the Women were defeated 38 to 3, and the Under 20s 's 24 to 3.