A RUGBY star from Musselburgh has helped Ealing Trailfinders lift the British and Irish Cup.

Alun Walker, who grew up in the Honest Toun, helped the London side to a 22-7 win over Leinster A in the final at their Vallis Way home on Saturday afternoon.

A delighted Walker, 27, posted on his Facebook page: “What a way to end the season, B&I champs. Great players and a hell of a season.”

Meanwhile, the Trailfinders confirmed last month that ex-Edinburgh Rugby man Walker would spend next season at the Championship outfit.

The former Musselburgh Grammar School pupil signed a new one-year contract extension after scoring 15 league tries to finish third top try-scorer overall.

He said: “The structures that came in when I first moved down have got better year-on-year.

“There has been a massive leap forward and the club is in such good stead, I’m definitely pleased to sign.”

The former Scotland age-grade internationalist, who studied at North Berwick High School, reflected on his four years with the club so far. The hooker added: “I don’t think it’s something that often happens in sport that you can rise through the leagues.”

On the changes in his game since moving, Walker added: “Set-piece wasn’t something I was focused on too much when I was younger but it’s something I’ve had to learn quickly.

“I’m definitely a different type of hooker than I used to be.”

The club’s director of rugby Ben Ward was similarly pleased to have secured Walker’s signature for next season.

He said: “Alun has been one of our top performers this year and his set-piece is up there with the best in the league.

“He offers a lot in open play as well which has been shown by the amount of tries he has scored for us.

“With over 50 appearances for the club, his experience is crucial and he is well-respected within the squad.”