A COUPLE from North Petherton became Guinness World Record holders at Twickenham Stadium on Friday as they packed down in the world’s largest rugby scrum.

Mike and Helen Phillips, from Wilstock, were also celebrating their wedding anniversary at the event, as they got themselves into position on the front row of the giant scrum.

1008 participants, including England rugby stars past and present; Will Greenwood, Dylan Hartley, Phil Vickery and Alex Corbisiero, and former All Blacks Warren Gatland and Piri Weepu joined Rugby World Cup 2015 volunteers to beat the previous record.

The event marked the launch of tickets for next year’s Rugby World Cup across England and Wales. Helen, who is also a North Petherton town councillor, said: “It was a wonderful, if unusual, way to celebrate our anniversary.

“We met some great rugby enthusiasts, including well known international players, and how fantastic to be part of a successful world record attempt.”

Her husband Mike, who has been shortlisted as a RWC 2015, said: “We were very fortunate as we were lined up opposite England’s World Cup winning prop Phil Vickery – not many people can say that.

“Next to him was the current England hooker Dylan Hartley and former All Blacks hooker Warren Gatland.”