Gay rugby fans turned out in force to meet and greet England rugby player Ben Cohen yesterday.

The 29-year-old former Northampton Saints winger chose Prowler in Soho to hold a signing for his new calendar, which commemorates his 2007-2008 testimonial year.

Proceeds from the calendar will raise money for Orchid Charity Trust, which aims to fight testicular cancer, and the Northamptonshire Air Ambulance Service.

Ben, who was unable to make the Rugby World Cup earlier this year as his wife was expecting twins, looked really relaxed in store as he signed calendars, chatted to fans and posed for photos.

When asked what they thought of a straight sports star courting his gay fanbase in this way,  Prowler shoppers were very positive about the move.

"I think it's fantastic. For a sportsman to do this for gay fans, I think is brilliant and many more should follow. As society gets more and more tolerant, more sports stars should come out and support us - because we support them," said rugby fan Paul from Brighton, who was at the signing.

"I've been following his career ever since he joined the England team," added said Neil from Little Venice. "I missed seeing him the World Cup in a pair of shorts!"

"Rugby's got an unfair image of homophobia. I'm from New Zealand I've just joined a team - the Kings Cross Steelers -  to get back to my roots," said Hugo from London, "I've bought a calendar for good luck!"

Others were more surprised by the event. "I thought it was a joke actually. When I first read about it yesterday it I wasn't sure, but I came along today just to see, and he is [here]. I think it's a good idea," added Wayne from north London.

Images by the Ben Cohen website, www.ben-cohen.com