Rugby Legend

William was the younger of James Ellis's two children. Following James's death in 1881, his wife moved to the town of Rugby in Warwickshire and sent William and his brother thomas to Rugby private school, thus ensuring that they would be educated to a high standard.Legend has it that William Webb Ellis grasped the ball in his hands and ran with it, before placing it between the opposing team's goalposts, to the amazement of those present.

This was in 1823.

The sport of rugby, then, was created in the town of Rugby, and its initial rules were defined by a group of pupils at the local school. The rules went on to be altered by subsequent groups of pupils. Rugby players like to think that their favourite sport is all about having the heart and the courage to break the rules.

The world Rugby Cup is also known as the Webb Ellis Trophy.