Billy Twelvetrees has been dropped to the bench for England's Six Nations opener against Wales in Cardiff.

Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph form a new-look midfield partnership as England recall four British & Irish Lions for Friday's showdown at the Millennium Stadium (8.05pm).

Jonny May starts for England on the wing while Saracens' Billy Vunipola comes in for the injured Gloucester number eight Ben Morgan, who is out with a broken leg.

Dan Cole starts at tighthead prop while Leicester Tigers teammates Tom Youngs and Tom Croft, as well as Saracens loosehead Mako Vunipola, are included among the replacements.

All four played some part in England's 30-3 defeat at the same venue two years ago and will be itching to set the record straight.

Cole comes in for David Wilson to win a 46th cap in a pack showing four changes from the one that started the final 2014 autumn international against Australia.

Lock George Kruis and blindside flanker James Haskell replace injured Northampton Saints duo Tom Wood and Courtney Lawes.

Burrell and Joseph take up the centre berths in the only changes to the backs while Ben Youngs, George Ford, Anthony Watson, Mike Brown and May are all retained by Stuart Lancaster.

Nick Easter of Harlequins and Sale Sharks talisman Danny Cipriani are also rewarded for excellent club form with places on the bench.

Elsewhere, powerful Newcastle Falcons tight-head Kieran Brookes will look to continue a string of eye-catching cameos stretching back to his Test debut against New Zealand last June.

Richard Wigglesworth and Twelvetrees stave off stiff competition to claim the final two spots, both boasting previous experience of the Cardiff atmosphere and composed game management.

England Head Coach Lancaster said: "We've had to make some tight calls but we are excited about the side selected for what will be a big challenge.

"JJ has been one of the form centres in the country. He and Luther have trained well together and this is a big opportunity for both of them.

"Billy Vunipola has also been playing well for Saracens and it's good to be able to give George Kruis his first international start after his impressive run off the bench in November.

"Dan Cole and James Haskell bring a lot of experience, as do the bench, and their contribution will be crucial on Friday night."

England team: 15. Mike Brown (Harlequins, 33 caps) 14. Anthony Watson (Bath Rugby, 4 caps) 13. Jonathan Joseph (Bath Rugby, 6 caps) 12. Luther Burrell (Northampton Saints, 7 caps) 11. Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby, 11 caps) 10. George Ford (Bath Rugby, 6 caps) 9. Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers, 42 caps) 1. Joe Marler (Harlequins, 26 caps) 2. Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints, 61 caps) 3. Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers, 45 caps) 4. David Attwood (Bath Rugby, 16 caps) 5. George Kruis (Saracens, 4 caps) 6. James Haskell (Wasps, 53 caps) 7. Chris Robshaw (captain, Harlequins, 32 caps) 8. Billy Vunipola (Saracens, 12 caps)

Replacements: 16. Tom Youngs (Leicester Tigers, 17 caps) 17. Mako Vunipola (Saracens, 15 caps) 18. Kieran Brookes (Newcastle Falcons, 6 caps) 19. Tom Croft (Leicester Tigers, 38 caps) 20. Nick Easter (Harlequins, 47 caps) 21. Richard Wigglesworth (Saracens, 16 caps) 22. Danny Cipriani (Sale Sharks, 9 caps) 23. Billy Twelvetrees (Gloucester Rugby, 16 caps)

After the remarkable story of Gloucestershire Regiment's own War Horse was unearthed last month, it has now been revealed that a dog survived the same journey.

The Sikh accompanied the Gloucestershire Regiment during the First World War, riding back and forth from the trenches in France and dodging shellfire during battles in Serbia and Bulgaria.

Chris Chatterton, curator of the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, unearthed the remarkable story last month but after looking deeper into the archives he has found mentions of a dog called Buller.

He said: "We found a brief mention of the dog and the horse accompanying Lieutenant A C Vicary and both ending up in retirement with him in Devon.

"More research is going on in attempt to find out more but it is a very laborious process of going through thousands of images and diary extracts."

The Sikh was one of two million horses taken to the frontline during the First World War.

Her journey echoes the plot of War Horse, the Michael Morpurgo novel that has been adapted into an award-winning play and film in which a teenager from Devon and his horse, Joey, are both put to use on the Western Front.

The Sikh's story has gone global after being picked up by newspapers across the world including Hungary, India, Singapore, China and Russia.

Mr Chatterton said: "It is unbelievable how much interest The Sikh has received.

"I have had phone calls from The Times of India and TV channels in China which is bonkers.

"The story has also appeared in equine publications and military magazines and we have worked out from circulation figures that it has reached more than 900million people."

The Sikh was bred in Australia and sold to India before arriving in North China with the 36th Sikh Regiment and passed into the ownership of Lt A C Vicary.

In November 1914 when the 2nd Battalion was given orders to return to Europe, Lt Vicary obtained special permission to take his horse with him.

She was the only horse to accompany the Battalion from China and spent the eight week voyage in a makeshift open box on the deck and went ashore at Hong Kong, Singapore, Port Said and Gibraltar.

The Sikh accompanied her master throughout the whole of the First World War, regularly coming up to the trenches and led the 16th Gloucestershire Regiment in their victorious march through Serbia and Bulgaria.

She also spent time in the trenches of France and Flanders.

She proceeded with the Regiment to South Russia, and followed them home through Turkey, Greece, Italy and France and died in peaceful retirement at Vicary's home in Devon.

Mr Chatterton has been contacted by five sculptures offering to make a statue to honour the remarkable horse.

"It is fantastic that the story has had such an impact on people," said Mr Chatterton.

"The Sikh is a symbol of all the hundreds of thousands of animals which were involved in combat.

"They went through the same horrible experiences as humans but have been completely forgotten and written out of history.

"We would love to have a statue of The Sikh at the museum but cost is a problem.

"We will have to sit down and talk about it properly and think about launching a public campaign to raise money."

An RFU disciplinary hearing will take place in Bristol on Wednesday evening after two representatives and a former player at Lydney RFC were charged with misconduct during a National Two South rugby match.

Lock Charlie Danniel has been charged with punching a player during the Severnsiders' ill-tempered fixture with Southend on Saturday, January 31.

Lydney director of rugby Duncan Bell and former captain Nick Nelmes, who is an active member at Regentsholme, have both been charged with abuse of a match official during the same fixture.

Team manager Colin Henderson was charged with the same offence but the accusation has since been dropped.

Danniel was given a red card by referee Jack Makepeace for his alleged offence and Lydney will be opposing the decision.

The hearing takes place at the Holiday Inn Bristol Filton at 7.30pm and will be heard by an RFU disciplinary panel headed by Christopher Quinlan QC.

Henderson said: "We are going to deny the allegation against Duncan Bell and we are unhappy with the Charlie Danniel sending off, which will be reviewed."

The club was not willing to comment on the charge placed on Nelmes.  

Cannabis dealer Daniel Murison assaullted a plain clothes policewoman who tried to arrest him in a city centre alleyway, a court heard.

Dad-of-one Murison, 21, pushed PC Amy John, leaving her with cuts to the hand and knee before he fled from the alleway alongside Boots in Eastgate Street, Gloucester Crown Court was told.

But other police officers arrested him in Station Road as he fled and his home was then searched, said prosecutor Caighli Taylor.

She told the court police found 7.9g of cannabis, £340 in cash, a grinder and other paraphernalia and messages on his phone which showed he was dealing.

Murison, of Berkeley Street, Gloucester, admitted assaulting PC John with intent to resist arrest on February 13 last year and also pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis on the same date with intent to supply.

His admission was that he was supplying only to a group of up to four friends and not making any significant profit.

Jon Lynch, defending, said Murison had co-operated fully with the probation service in preparing a pre-sentence report on him. Murison was 'extremely fearful' of going to prison, especially as he had a three-month-old baby son. He stressed Murison was only supplying very few friends and was not a general street dealer. He had merely pushed PC John in his effort to get away and had not assaulted her further, he added.

Murison had been using cannabis since he was 14 but in the wake of his arrest he had cut down his use of the drug considerably and was anxious to get a job, move in with his partner and baby and avoid crime, said Mr Lynch.

Recorder Peter Towler passed a 40 week jail term suspended for two years with 15 months supervision and a three months drug rehab programme. He also ordered Murison to attend a Thinking Skills programme for 19 days and told him he will have to pay a £100 surcharge.

A 'considerable abuse of trust' saw a 73-year-old Matson woman steal £3,400 from an elderly friend.

Carol Stroud, of Prinknash Road, admitted defrauding Barbara Baldwin of the cash over more than four years.

She had been trusted to help look after Mrs Baldwin's finances, Gloucester Crown Court heard.

Judge Jamie Tabor QC told Stroud: "It is very sad to see someone of your age in a criminal court.

"But the fact is that you committed a serious criminal offence and took a lot of money which didn't belong to you."

Stroud pleaded guilty to stealing £3,400 from Mrs Baldwin between August 11, 2009 and November 5, 2013.

She also admitted fraud against Mrs Baldwin by adapting a passbook in the same time period.

Sarah Jenkins, defending, said Stroud has never been in any criminal trouble before.

"The complainant is quite elderly - so is the defendant," she said.

"They met each other relatively late in life and formed a friendship.

"Mrs Baldwin appears to have been struggling with matters financial and effectively used Mrs Stroud to help her with her day to day affairs."

Judge Tabor added: "There was a considerable abuse of trust."

"Yes, abuse of friendship," agreed Mrs Jenkins.

"The offences occurred when she was in quite considerable difficulty after being widowed and trying to deal with her own debts and other financial problems.

"This is something which is very much out of character."

Judge Tabor said he wanted to know more about Stroud before sentencing her. He bailed her until March 9 for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

With Valentine's day around the corner, two cranes are shrugging off the winter blues and proving to everybody spring is just around the corner.

Despite icy cool temperatures recently this pair of cranes at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre are getting a head start on the usual spring mating season.

The pair, called Bart and Ruby, were released as chicks in Somerset as part of the Great Crane Project.

They nested last summer at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre but failed to rear a chick.

From the look of these pictures taken on a day with temperatures close to zero though they are wasting no time trying again this year.

Regularly the striking birds perform dramatic flypasts in the skies above the famous nature reserve and lively dancing displays in front of the hides.

Cranes, which are the largest and loudest species of UK bird, are making a comeback in the UK and WWT Slimbridge is one of the best spots to see them in the wild.

Would reinstating a roundabout at the A38 Cole Avenue junction solve the kind of problems that led to a serious crash there on Tuesday?

It has been suggested by some as a viable option for one of the city's busiest junctions after a Tredworth man was left with 'life-changing' head injuries following a morning collision there. The crash occurred after a power failure meant the traffic lights weren't working.

It's not the first time the lights there have failed and it's led to calls for something to change.

Rachel Mason is manager of the Gloucestershire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre in Quedgeley, a stone's throw from the junction, and said the problems with the lights are affecting patients who view the centre as a lifeline.

"On Tuesday morning I was 45 minutes late to work and a lot of our patients were late as well which meant they had to miss their appointments," she said.

"These people have disabilities and they strive to get here for their appointments so it is really hard for them to know they have missed out because of something which is completely out of their control.

"This centre is a lifeline for a lot of our patients and it is so frustrating that they are suffering because of problems with the traffic lights.

"I think we should bring the roundabout back as the flow of traffic was so much better and it made people pay attention to the junction rather than speeding through the lights."

The junction brings together Bristol Road, the A38 and Cole Avenue and is a major route between Quedgeley and the M5 and the city.

This is the seventh collision to happen at the junction in the last year, but Tuesday's incident was the first where serious injury has occurred.

According to Gloucestershire County Council, this week's incident was only the second time the lights have failed in the last 12 months.

The current traffic light system replaced the roundabout at the junction more than 10 years ago.

County councillor Barry Kirby (L, Grange and Kingsway) said the current junction is subject to 'spectacular failings' but added: "From what I have heard the previous roundabout solution wasn't much better and for the most part when the lights are working the junction works fine.

"What we need is assurance that the software and hardware that makes the lights work are fully functional and can be relied on.

"There needs to be a serious review of the junction in order to take some of the pressure off quite a complicated system. There needs to be a design and safety audit as well as a risk assessment to see if this design is fit for purpose."

"Questions need to be asked about why this system keeps failing."

Coun Mark Hawthorne, county councillor for Quedgeley and leader of the authority, said: "Last year, following concerns from local residents about reliability, I got the council to replace much of the electronics that run these traffic lights. I've also asked them to work with the supplier looking at a back-up power supply to help prevent the lights from failing when power cuts happen.

"I will continue to work with highways to deliver improvements to this vital junction."

Billy Twelvetrees missed out on a England starting spot after Jonathan Joseph was rewarded for the consistency of his club form.

The Gloucester captain started the final game of the autumn, a 26-17 victory over Australia, but has been demoted to the bench for the opening game of the RBS 6 Nations against Wales on Friday.

Stuart Lancaster has opted for a ninth midfield partnership in three years, pairing Bath's Joseph with Luther Burrell, who played alongside Twelvetrees throughout last year's Championship.

The duo have just 13 caps between them in comparison to Wales' Jamie Roberts, who is starting his 25 consecutive match in the tournament, and Jonathan Davies who boast a combined 107.

But Lancaster is content with the quality of England's back-line ahead of the Cardiff clash.

He said: "Obviously in the back line, there's less experience but there is exciting talent. There's Anthony Watson and Johnny May. They've got wheels on the wings. Certainly Jonathan Joseph deserves his chance with his form for Bath.

"With George Ford and Ben Youngs, we've got a really good balance across the board.

"At centre, there've been reasons why combinations have changed over the last few games. Injuries have played their part. Luther Burrell is back in having been out of the equation in November and Kyle Eastmond, Manu Tuilagi and Brad Barritt are out.

"We're happy with the combination we've got. Luther will bring that gainline physical presence and JJ has been outstanding for Bath over the last six months. They're up against two experienced centres but Burrell and Billy Twelvetrees acquitted themselves well last year at Twickenham."

England have been preparing from the fervent Millennium Stadium crowd by installing loud speakers at their Pennyhill Park training base.

Hymns and Arias could be heard reverberating around the country hotel grounds as the media descended on Bagshot this morning and Lancaster admits it is to ensure his young side can cope with the red-hot atmosphere.

He also confirmed it was his intention to have the Millennium Stadium roof open. Lancaster has the final call as both teams must agree to it being shut and must confirm the decision this evening.

He added: "All it is is a way of trying replicate for the players who haven't been there examples of the type of sounds and how it reverberates around the stadium and how clear your communication has to be.

"Often, you can't hear yourself on the field because of the intensity of the occasion and it just replicates that and gives you a bit of a chance to prepare.

"We've not done it all week, I can assure you, because we'd have no eardrums left!

"We've got a decision to make by the close of play today on the roof. We're waiting for the latest weather forecast but it looks like it's set fair and if it is then we want it open."

Jobs for Gloucester students will get top priority from UKIP's Richard Ford if elected as MP for the city.

Launching his policies while campaigning in the city today he said: "My priority will be learning for jobs, investing for jobs. There are too many young people leaving the education system with qualifications that aren't needed. When a city student leaves education, he or she must be equipped to compete for relevant employment.

"We in UKIP want Gloucester's school students to be able to take an Apprenticeship Qualification instead of 4 non-core GCSEs that will lead to a professional, recognised grading. The status of apprenticeship should be highly valued, as it is in Germany for instance, and not seen as some Cinderella qualification. We want to invest in Gloucester's younger generation ."

"And for those studying approved degrees in science, technology, engineering, maths or medicine (STEMM) we'll remove tuition fees on condition they work and pay taxes in the UK for five years after finishing their degrees. Both policies are focussed on getting a job after leaving your education. 

"The UK is going to have to compete hard in the future world, and we're optimistic about our prospects. But we would scrap the target of 50 per cent of school leavers going to university. It's totally arbitrary with no link with what our young people need to win in the world of work."

Close friends of Nick Bonnie have organised a charity race night l to raise money for The Prince's Trust.

Nick, who worked for the charity, died in 2013 and five of his friends are taking on the huge challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in October, in his memory.

They have organised a series of fundraisers ahead of the climb and have so far raised more than £10,000.

The charity race night takes place at 7pm on Saturday, February 21, at Kings Stanley Village Hall.

Tickets are £5 and includes a race programme and a prize draw raffle.

All proceeds will go to support the Prince's Trust. Tickets available from www.summitforbonnie.co.uk

Gloucester's evening economy has been dealt a blow with the closure of two nightclubs.

TNT and Liberty's in Eastgate Street have both shut along with nearby Hi Jinx Soft Play centre.

However, developer Charles Perkins has taken on Liberty's and Hi Jinx and has big plans to create something special.

Mr Perkins, who turned a run-down property in Eastgate Street into a popular nursery last year, said: "It is early days and I can't confirm exactly what I am going to do with the site but it won't be a nightclub that's for sure.

"I will be refurbishing the soft play area. It needs a lot of TLC.

"As for Liberty's I am open to ideas from people who want to lease it but if no one comes forward in the next month I am thinking about developing it myself as a gym and restaurant."

Mr Perkins opened The Secret Garden Day Nursery at the Grade 2 listed Annandale House in April.

"What we have done at the nursery is great and I am hoping we can work the same magic on the rest of Eastgate Street," he said.

"Liberty's can be made attractive. It just needs some money thrown at it and some creativity."

Meanwhile, the Citizen has approached Enterprise Inns, which owns TNT, for a comment and is awaiting a response.

It is understood that Enterprise is looking for a new owner to continue running TNT as a nighttime venue.

MOVIE fans in Gloucester can enjoy a new boutique cinema when it opens in Kingsholm this month.

The 140-seat Sherborne Cinema will combine a retro art deco theme with the latest films on their second run.

Kingsholm's 134-year-old Christadelphian Hall in Sherborne Street has been transformed by the project, which will officially open its doors on Friday February 20.

When the Sherbourne Cinema is up and running it will open every day of the week and will aim to show two films during the evenings and up to four during weekends and bank holidays.

It will show the latest popular films a few weeks after they are released to larger multiplexes, and family films at weekends and bank holidays. First World War drama Testament of Youth will be among the first films shown there.

Mark Cunningham, who has spent over two years on the project, said the cinema may begin screenings as early as Friday February 13.

He said: "I want the cinema to have something for everyone. It may appeal to more mature people but hopefully we'll get some younger people looking for something a bit different."

"Up until 1950 there were loads of cinemas in Gloucester in little old chapels. There's very few left now so I want to recreate that."

Glass chandeliers and an Edwardian pay box will decorate the foyer, with decorations in the theatre adding to the classical theme.

Mr Cunningham has a track record in restoring cinemas, having reopened the Palace Cinema in Cinderford.

He has done much of the work on the hall himself, including screwing in the seats.

Tickets will be available to buy on the door for each screening, which will cost between £3.50 for a weekend family film and £5.50 for a 8.30pm showing.

Mr Cunningham said: "There is a demand for it and I think people are interested in a slightly different cinema experience. The only question is whether we can match up to their expectation, and I hope we can."

A man who bought a laptop from eBay for £300 instead received a picture of one through the post.

Paul Barrington, 38, thought he'd scored a bargain when he won the auction - as Apple MacBook's can cost up to £1,500 new.

But the bargain proved to good to be true when a feather-like package arrived a few days later in a small, square box.

It contained only a black-and-white photocopy of a photo of what Paul thought he had ordered.

Paul, of Ilfracombe, Devon, had sold his last surf board to pay for the laptop to launch acareer as a wedding DJ.

He said: "I sold my pride and joy for a piece of paper.

"I checked the listing and the seller's rating. He'd been a member for a few years, so there was nothing to be suspicious about.

"The package was as light as a feather. Why bother sending a picture in a box? It doesn't make any sense. I almost had to laugh."

He has has been in and out of hospital in recent months with lung condition Bullous Emphesima, which has meant he is unable to surf and had to give up his job in child care.

In response to Mr Barrington's complaint, an eBay spokesman said it would be now be offering a full refund.

When two passers-by went to the aid of a boy being harangued in the street by angry Shaun Dickinson he brandished an array of weapons at them and threatened to burn their homes down, a court heard.

Dickinson, 25, of High Street, Bream, first wielded a pool cue at the two men and then fetched two knives from his house, said prosecutor Julian Kesner at Gloucester Crown Court.

Dickinson pleaded guilty to committing an affray on September 7 last year and also admitted two later common assaults on his partner Claire Le-Lievre on January 6 this year.

Recorder Peter Towler said he accepted Dickinson has mental health difficulties and sentenced him to 12 months imprisonment suspended for a year with a 60 day programme requirement and two years supervision. He also ordered him to pay an £80 surcharge.

Mr Kesner said that on September 7 Dickinson went out of his home and 'shouted inappropriately' at a child of about 12 in the road. Two passers-by saw the child's distress and intervened – whereupon Dickinson told them 'you don't know who I am. You don't know who you're messing with'.

"He went into his house and a few moments later he came out with the bottom half of a pool or snooker cue," said Mr Kesner. "The passers-by did not seem to be concerned about that so not having had the desired effect with the cue the defendant went back into his house and came out with a knife.

"He started hitting it on his front gate. The knife split in two so he then went back into his house and returned with another knife, also about 12 inches.

"He told them 'I know who you are. I'll get you, I know where you live. I will burn your house down'."

Police were called and arrested Dickinson. Four months later he was at home when he got into a row with his partner in front of their three children, aged five-10, said Mr Kesner. He grabbed her around the throat, pushing her to the floor. She responded by shoving a sandwich in his face.

When police arrested and questioned him he was crying and said he was sorry for what he had done, but could not remember all of it.

Steve Young, defending, said Dickinson approached the boy in the street after he had pushed over his daughter.

He said Dickinson has mental health problems and a report on him indicated that he could get help from the community health team.

Wales 16 England 21

England  kicked-off the Six Nations in style as they battered Wales into submission at the Millennium Stadium.

In a fast and furious encounter England's set-piece dominance and ferocious physicality around the park proved the difference.

The hosts had stormed into a 10-point lead thanks to Rhys Webb's early try and the boot of Leigh Halfpenny but England fought back superbly.

Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph crossed either side of the break as Stuart Lancaster's men made a major statement of intent in both the Championship and ahead of their group stage showdown at the World Cup.

Wales, with a clean bill of health, were outright favourites with the bookmakers against injury-ravaged England but Lancaster's men upset the odds in emphatic fashion.

They were physical, tenacious and unrelenting, deserved winners against a one-dimensional Wales short of ideas.

The Cardiff cathedral of rugby was simmering ahead of kick-off and tensions rose amid a tunnel stand-off as England refused to budge before submitting.

However, they then made the worst possible start at the vociferous Millennium Stadium, losing the kick off and giving away a penalty after Jonny May failed to roll away at the breakdown.

Halfpenny stepped up to slot the points and Wales continued to cause England problems.

A bizarrely flat cross-kick to the full-back created an opening, with Halfpenny hacking on. England raced back to hold out but they knocked on at the breakdown to hand Wales a five-metre scrum.

The visitors had the upper hand at the set-piece and had Wales back-tracking but Taulupe Faletau did amazingly well to dig the ball out. He broke off the back and handed off James Haskell before sucking in both Ford and May and offloading to Webb for a try beneath the sticks.

England, who were steadily increasing their dominance at the set-piece, hit back shortly before the 15-minute mark.

After spreading the ball wide Mike Brown threaded a delicate grubber through Wales' rush defence and Watson scooped the ball from his shoelaces to crash over.

Ford struck the right post with his conversion and both teams enjoyed bright spells in the frantic encounter.

Halfpenny edged the hosts further in front with a sublime long-range penalty after Dan Cole was penalised for hands in the ruck.

Ford kept England in touch with a simple penalty after Jamie Roberts tackled May without the ball, while the usually ever-reliable Halfpenny lost his sights.

But Biggar restored the hosts' eight-point advantage with a drop goal on the stroke of half-time.

Unlike the first-half, England made a roaring start to the second. They pummelled Wales with wave after wave of attack and a breakthrough was inevitable.

It eventually came to Bath centre Joseph who displayed great footwork to beat both George North and Dan Biggar and race under the sticks.

Ford added the simple conversion but was off-target moments later with a penalty, which would have given England the lead for the first time.

But they were firmly in the ascendancy and piled the pressure on Wales who appeared out on their feet.

James Haskell burst clear for what appeared to be a certain try but Alex Cuthbert and Halfpenny saved the day as the Wasps skipper ran into the post.

Gloucester-born Cuthbert was however sent to the sin-bin for a professional foul and Ford nailed the simple penalty as England took the lead for the first time.

It looked as though they had secured victory following another multi-phase period of pressure which saw former Gloucester man Attwood crash over in the corner but following television replays, referee Jerome Garces brought play back for an earlier crossing offence.

Wales had one final roll of the dice but they were unable to muster up any real opportunity as the Red Rose blanket engulfed them.

And man-of-the-match Ford put the final nail in their coffin with a minute to spare after they were caught hanging on.

Wales: L Halfpenny; A Cuthbert, J Davies, J Roberts, G North; D Biggar, R Webb (M Phillips 69); G Jenkins (P James 59), R Hibbard, S Lee (A Jarvis 71), J Ball (L Charteris 69), AW Jones, D Lydiate, S Warburton, T Faletau

Scores: Try – R Webb; Con – L Halfpenny; Pens – L Halfpenny (3)

England: M Brown; A Watson, J Joseph, L Burrell(B Twelvetrees 76), J May; G Ford, B Youngs (R Wigglesworth 68); J Marler (M Vunipola 54), D Hartley (T Youngs 54), D Cole, D Attwood, G Kruis (N Easter 71), J Haskell, C Robshaw, B Vunipola.

Scores: Tries – A Watson, J Joseph; Con – G Ford; Pens – G Ford

Referee: J Garces

Attendance: 73,815

Stuart Lancaster has hailed England's Six Nations win over Wales as one of the highest points of his career.

The Red Rose wilted on their last visit to the Millennium Stadium but they roared to a 21-16 victory to kick off the Championship in style.

Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph scored the crucial tries in the hugely physical encounter, which lays down a major marker ahead of the World Cup.

And after England's 30-3 mauling in Cardiff two years ago, Lancaster could not hide his delight.

"I remember being interviewed after the game two years ago and that was the lowest point of my coaching career without a doubt," Lancaster said.

"We learned a lot from two years ago and drew a lot of strength from last year's performance against Wales and the way we finished the autumn series against Australia.

"This win is definitely one of the highest points because of the pressure and emotion leading up into it and getting new combinations together.

"Whether it's one points, two points, five points it's all about getting the win.

"Being 10-0 down was a big hole and we closed the gap, but that Dan Biggar drop goal gave us work to do at 16-8.

"I really feel we upped our intensity and although we took our two tries really well we probably created three or four opportunities in the second half."

Wales were outright favourites with the bookies and England were depleted by injuries.

The old rivals face each other again at the World Cup in the autumn but Lancaster denied the victory gave his side a psychological edge.

"I don't think it is really," added Lancaster. "It's all about the here and now.

"We've got four more games of Six Nations to go, as have Wales, and we've got World Cup camps to prepare for and decisions to make on squad selection.

"We've got warm-up games and there's everything to play for. The World Cup is a long way off and this was about getting the victory for that young team away from home. It's great for us in terms of belief."

If you know somebody ordinary who makes extraordinary things for a community in Gloucestershire, why not nominate them for the Heart of Gloucestershire Award 2015?

The campaign is run jointly by the Gloucestershire Echo and the Gloucester Citizen.

We're looking for local heroes, people who go above and beyond the call of duty and act for their county.

Winners in previous years from ranged from people who are not recognised enough to those who distinguish themselves by their selflessness, bravery and generosity.

Gloucestershire Echo editor, Matt Holmes, said: "This is a marvellous event that celebrates the very best people in the county.

"Nominate your friends, neighbours, teachers or relatives to say thank you for their efforts in going above and beyond.

"We would love to have as many nominations as possible, so why not get involved?"

The award is now in its ninth year and continues to go from strength to strength, giving these people the credit they deserve.

You have until March 6 to nominate this special person and give them a chance to see their good deed rewarded.

Click here to enter

'Endless enthusiasm' of last year's winner

The winner of the 2014 Environmental Hero award was David Stevenson.

The ranger at Cleeve Common was nominated by Peter Lightfoot, chairman of the Cleeve Common Border Conservators, because of his endless enthusiasm for the area.

David stood out because of the huge amount of work he has done on the common, improving the habitat and managing the livestock.

He has also managed water clearance and checked people aren't harming the environment by their activities.

"It's a lovely place to work and I enjoy working with the people, the land and the livestock. It's a smashing environment," he said.

"As a senior ranger we look after all aspects of the entire common from the wildlife and archaeological sites to the cattle, public access and rare plants."

By his hard-work and devotion for his community, David deserved to be called an environmental hero.

"I wasn't expecting to receive this award last year, I was really surprised," he said.

"But obviously, it made me incredibly happy and proud."

He hasn't rested on his laurels this year, protecting Cleeve Common, which is a beautiful area as well as a Site of Specific Scientific Interest.

"I carried on doing the same things, it is important for me."

Ten categories to enter

Community Project

Category Criteria
As the saying goes, two heads are better than one and this award is all about recognising the efforts of a group or project which has made a difference in a community. We want to honour a scheme which has helped make where we live a better place. This could be anything from an after school club or dance troupe set up to help children in the area or a campaign to get a new play area or clear up an eyesore in the neighbourhood.

Braveheart Hero

Category Criteria:
This special award will be given to an individual of any age who has responded to an immediate need and significantly affected the life or lives of others.
For example, someone who has rescued a person from a dangerous situation; or shown immense courage to help another in difficulty. Do you know someone who showed tremendous heroism in an emergency? Or maybe you know someone who is incredibly brave in the face of adversity; that does not complain but uses their situation to the betterment of life for others?

Environmental Hero

Category Criteria:
Championing green issues is not just about saving the planet. We want to hear about those environmental heroes who endeavour to make the world around them a better place. This could be a recycling guru, someone who has cleared up a grot spot or who saved an open space from development. This award is about recognising the achievements of those people who go the extra mile to improve their surroundings or highlight green issues.

Caring Hero

Category Criteria:
There are so many carers in our society, looking after sick or disabled relatives, neighbours or friends. There are people who do caring things for others, shopping for the elderly, giving their time to help those less fortunate, or putting themselves out for their community. We would like to honour these people who put themselves out to help others because they have a caring heart. They don't need to be a full-time carer to be nominated.

Public Sector Hero

Category Criteria:
Some people go beyond the call of duty when it comes to their jobs and we want to recognise that. Do you know a firefighter, police officer, serviceman or woman, nurse, care worker, paramedic or rescue team member who goes above and beyond the call of duty? Do you know someone who works in the NHS and makes a real difference to patient care? Or perhaps you are aware of a youth worker, street cleaner, social worker, librarian, magistrate or councillor who deserves recognition? This award aims to champion outstanding efforts by those in both the public or private sectors to improve the lives of people locally.

Charity Champion

Category Criteria:
Do you know a remarkable and inspirational individual that has strongly and consistently contributed to the charity sector? There are many people in our communities struggling for the basic necessities of life. Our Charity Champion will work tirelessly to enable the provision of support and services for a charitable cause. This award recognises people who have made an exceptional effort to advance the profile and raise funds for a particular concern.

Education Hero

Category Criteria:
Do you know someone who has made a real difference in the field of education? This award will be given to an individual who has changed lives through inspiring others to learn. It could be a teacher, classroom assistant, or perhaps an instructor or Scout/Guide leader.

Outstanding Contribution to the Arts and Culture

Category Criteria:
In Gloucestershire, we have an abundance of theatrical and dance groups which are nurturing talented youngsters every single week. But these groups would not run without the dedicated adults who teach the classes. Do these people deserve recognition? Perhaps you know someone who is excelling in the performance of music, dance or theatre? Or is there an author, artist or singer in your community whose talent and achievements should be formally acknowledged?

Child of Courage Award

Category Criteria:
Some children have to go through much more than they should at their tender age. But more often than not they show a remarkable courage which allows them to keep smiling through the ordeal. Do you know a young person or child who has battled from illness, bereavement, disability or bullying? We want to show them how proud we are of how they have handled what life has thrown at them.

Lifetime Achievement Awards

Category Criteria:
Do you know a person who has done something extraordinary? It could be a person who has achieved something special in any field they choose, be it academic, musical, sporting or something else completely. Or they might have carried out an act of great bravery or generosity.

Cinderford must thrive on pressure if they are going to escape relegation this season, believes veteran scrum-half Clive Stuart-Smith.

The former England Saxon says the Foresters are at their most threatening when their backs are up against the wall and he is confident the team can bite back after defeats against Coventry and Blackheath.

Changes in the club's management structure has rattled its core during what Stuart-Smith describes as a "surreal" season.

But, like many teams, focus and stability has given Cinderford a batch of confidence coming into the new year and they have been buoyed by the approach of director of rugby Nic Corrigan.

Stuart-Smith, 31, said: "It has been a tough couple of weeks against some of the top sides in the league. We were disappointed by the last two results against Coventry and Blackheath but we are constantly improving as a squad.

"At the club we have an abundance of talent and Alex Frame and Danny Pointon are both quality scrum-halves itching to play. That competition is exactly where we need to be.

"If you are lucky enough to be playing, you need to perform to keep hold of the shirt. It is a happy, focused squad and having stability and a clear goal is only a good thing – we want to be a National One side next season"

Cinderford travel to Priory Lane this afternoon, a venue only league-leaders Ealing Trailfinders have returned from glorious – and that was by a point.

Stuart-Smith says there is no pressure on this occasion. A losing bonus-point will go far. But he doesn't mean the Foresters won't come out fighting.

He continued: "They are arguably one of the top clubs in our league and play a great brand of rugby. There is nothing expected of us except to go and do as well as we can. We're in a situation now where picking up results are the most important thing.

"Coming into a crucial period against our closest competitors, we need a win-at-all-costs mentality. Yes, the pressure is on, but it is something to thrive on.

"Cinderford always do well with our backs against the wall so as long as we remain a happy, positive camp, we are confident that our goals can be achieved. This weekend is vital but it is one part of a bigger picture."

The rebuilding starts here. There is a hole to climb out from but Stuart-Smith believes Cinderford have enough firepower to secure their future in National One.

He said: "The club has seen a great deal of change over the past few months but, after going through a period of reflection, we are now on the right path. Bristol, Gloucester and even Northampton are clubs that have been through tough times in their history.

"It is evident to see a real feeling of direction at the club that allows the players to focus on performance, rather than peripheral distractions. We have got the foundations, the management, a great bunch of players and passionate supporters who are all pulling together to make Cinderford a success."