CUMBRIAN PLAYER IN RUGBY WORLD CUP SQUAD

19th October 2007

CUMBRIA has gone rugby mad after Workington-born Mark Cueto was picked to play in the World Cup Final on Saturday.

Yesterday it was announced that Mark would replace Josh Lewsey on England’s wing in the final against South Africa. Since then rugby fans have been rallying around and showing their support for the local hero who played junior rugby for Maryport.

His family still live in Workington and Maryport, and his grandad said he was proud his grandson was representing his country. Philip Cueto, 84, of John Street, Maryport, said: “Mark only started kicking about for Netherhall Rugby Club when he was six. He didn’t take it seriously until he started university. “We are so proud of him. The whole family is supporting him. Me and my wife will be watching him play on Saturday from home. He has a huge following in West Cumbria. Cueto is such an unusual name, everyone knows we are related to him. “We always thought he would do well, but never thought he would be playing in the final".

Philip’s wife, Dot, 82, said: “It is so unusual for me to get excited about anything, but I am very excited about the game on Saturday. I can’t wait. He has had a lot of injuries and muscle trouble recently. I hope he is OK for the final.”

Curtis Hewetson, a pupil at Netherhall School, said he would also be supporting his local hero. Curtis, 13, said: “He is a good player. I am pleased he has got so far. I like watching rugby and will definitely be watching him play.”

Curtis’s mum, Lisa Farell, of Dearham, said: “It is not often that someone local gets picked to play for such a major game. It is really good for the area.”

And the club where Mark started off as a youngster said they will be rushing back from an away game in Barrow to catch the game on TV. Jim Edmondson, treasurer of the Netherhall Rugby Club, said: “We are immensely proud he has been selected. He and his dad played for us quite a few years ago. We will all be watching it in the club and cheering for him.” And workers at Workington Town said Cueto’s selection will encourage more local boys to take up the game.

Keith Ray, who works at Workington Town, said: “I think it’s marvellous he has been chosen. It will definitely put Workington on the map. I would have thought it would make more youngsters interested in rugby if they see he is a local lad. More West Cumbrians will definitely watch the final on Sunday.”