30-04-2025
Brothers who attended same County Durham school face off in rugby premiership
Two brothers who attended the same County Durham school faced each other on the rugby field.
Max and Guy Pepper, alumni of Barnard Castle School, played for opposing teams in the Premiership Rugby.
Max played for Newcastle, while Guy played for Bath.
This was the first time the brothers had played against each other in the Premiership.
Guy Pepper, right, with Alex Tait (Image: Supplied)
The match added to the County Durham school's legacy of producing top-tier rugby talent, known as 'Old Barnardians'.
The school has produced four sets of brothers who have played for top English clubs: Rory and Tony Underwood, Karl and Lee Dickson, Mathew and Alex Tait, and now Max and Guy Pepper.
The Pepper brothers' rivalry extends beyond the rugby field, as both earned degrees from Durham University.
Lee Dickson (Image: Supplied)
Their father, Martin Pepper, is Barnard Castle School's second master.
Mr Pepper said: "These Old Barnardian legacies are not just celebrated at Barney, they're built upon, season after season.
"We thrive on our sense of community at Barney.
"It is not just about our continued production of elite rugby players, it's about every individual feeling they are part of something special.
Lee Dickson (Image: Supplied)
"Learning to be a game changer at Barney isn't theoretical, it's lived, it's developed on the pitch, in the classroom, in chapel and in the boarding houses.
"Whether it's a prefect stepping up for a younger pupil, or a team captain rallying their squad, every child learns what it means to be responsible, to care, and to lead with conviction."
He said it was a proud moment to see both boys come on from the bench with around 25 minutes of play to go.
He was equally proud of Old Barnardians back row player Freddie Lockwood and lock Oscar Usher who played for the Falcons, Oscar making his debut.
Mr Pepper said: "Watching, I had feet 50:50 in both camps as I stood on the halfway line.
"It was great to see both boys on the pitch, particularly Max in his more natural position of scrum half.
"Once or twice my heart was in my mouth but they managed to stay away from each other and both made positive contributions in what was a tough match.
"Next time they play it will be a local derby with Max going to Bristol."
The other sets of Old Barnardian brothers have also made significant contributions to rugby and beyond.
Mathew Tait, who earned 36 England caps, is now the general manager of Emirates Dubai 7s & Stadia.
Alex, a club stalwart with 269 appearances for the Falcons, has transitioned into a successful career in wealth management.
Karl Dickson, following 169 appearances for Harlequins, has now carved out a new legacy as an international referee.
Lee, after earning 18 England caps, has returned full circle as Barney's master in charge of rugby.
Rory Underwood, England's all-time leading try scorer and former RAF fighter pilot, is now a leading business strategist through his company, Wingman Ltd.
His brother Tony, who also donned the Red Rose jersey with distinction, transitioned to a career as an Airbus A380 captain for Emirates.
He is now the CCE of Believe Solutions and ambassador for Newcastle Rugby Foundation.
