Martin Johnson was the centre of attention as he opened Ilkley’s new £1.7m clubhouse.

Just three days after quitting as England coach, he discovered that he is still as popular as ever in Ilkley.

After arriving by helicopter to a rousing cheer from the 1,000 strong crowd, he proceeded to spend time with the club’s members.

A scrum of young fans were delighted when he stopped to sign autographs for them and he also stayed to watch from the clubhouse as Ilkley defeated Scarborough 24-0.

Johnson said: “I was always going to make the visit to Ilkley.

“It was arranged a long time ago and I am delighted to see so many people at the club.

“Elite rugby is only a small part of rugby union and it is great that clubs like Ilkley can develop such excellent facilities to develop the grass-roots of the game.”