A RUGBY Union veteran who has clocked up a remarkable 1,200 matches for his club says he has no plans to hang up his boots.

When 51-year-old Johnny Williamson donned his kit in the landmark match for Ripon Rugby Union Club, he celebrated in style, scoring a try in their 58-0 victory over Halifax team Heath Old Boys.

Mr Williamson's run of appearances has been hailed as "simply unbeatable" by club officials.

A self-employed plumber, who lives in Ripon, he had aimed to reach the milestone last season but injury intervened.

"I'm still enjoying playing and so I just don't want to give it up," he said.

" I don't feel any more aches and pains than anyone else and I have managed to steer clear of serious injuries.

"I have been very lucky but I still love playing."

His 18-year-old son Daniel played alongside him in the team which saw the 1,200th appearance.

The former club skipper, who held a record of 37 tries for the first team in one season, does little training for matches.

"I keep myself fit in my job, climbing on to rooftops, going into lofts and running up and down ladders," he said.

Mr Williamson said he hoped that next season his 16-year-old son Simon would make it a Williamson family treble by appearing in the line-up for the club's third team when he becomes 17.

Johnny was only 16 when he made his debut for the Ripon side.

Ripon club treasurer and ex-president Fred Metcalfe said of the club's record breaker: "He has shown remarkable dedication, not only to the club but to rugby in general.

"His achievement is unlikely to be repeated and has been truly outstanding."