If Ben Foden, thought by many rugby writers as one of the best up-and-coming scrum-halves in the country, gets to play in the Six Nations for England this year, then he will make supporters of a certain brass band happy.

Dynasty

As the name suggests, 23 year old Ben, from Chester, belongs to the famous Fodens dynasty that set up the truck building company in Sandbach – and went on to sponsor one of the most famous bands in the world.

It is not known if Ben, who plays for Northampton Saints has any interest in brass banding (although he did get through the First round of Pop Idol)4BR

Family links

Ben’s great grandfather was Edwin, the founder of the company and band, whilst his grandfather was Bill Foden who was perhaps the last active member of the family to take a real interest in the band’s day to day activities.

Exploits

It is not known if Ben, who plays for Northampton Saints has any interest in brass banding (although he did get through the First round of Pop Idol).

However, he has the requisite ‘C’ list celebrity girlfriend and has been talked of as the next ‘Matt Dawson’. That should ensure that if he does finally get a cap he can join the ever lengthening list of rugby players better known for their off field exploits than their on field side skills (current President — Gavin Henson of Wales) if he cannot help England to win a match...