A band formed on the internet site Facebook have been plucked from obscurity to play England's official rugby World Cup anthem.

Blake, a four-piece of ex-choristers, got together online four months ago after discovering a shared interest in classical music.

Last month, they signed a £1 million, five-album deal with record giant Universal.

Now the four, Jules Knight, 25, from Eastbourne, Stephen Bowman, 25, from Bath, Dominic Tighe, 24, from Devon, and Oliver Baines, 24, from Wiltshire, have landed their first big gig.

Their version of Swing Low will be the England rugby team's official anthem for the 2007 World Cup.

They sang their version of the rugby classic at the England v France match at Twickenham today.

The RFU (Rugby Football Union) got in contact with the group's managers after spotting the boyband on BBC Breakfast news.

England World Cup winner Lawrence Dallaglio said: "The song is special to England supporters and to the players.

"It's great to hear a chorus break out during a Twickenham match as it always adds to the atmosphere.

"I'd like to wish Blake every success with their version of Swing Low Sweet Chariot."

Jules said: "We've all played rugby in our time and are huge fans of the national team.

"To sing at Twickenham is an enormous honour. We know the team will be giving it 100 per cent and so will we."

The band had mutual friends but had never met as a group before they discovered a shared background in classical music.

They decided to put their own act together and track down manager Daniel Glatman, ex-Blue supremo, to help them find success.

He agreed to an audition after they "messaged" him on Facebook.

Blake are now recording their debut album which is set to include covers of Moon River, Hallelujah, Swing Low and Jerusalem.