Published at 09:12, Monday, 30 April 2012

TYNEDALE U9 received surprise visitors when Newcastle Falcons players Tim Swinson and Rob Vickers swooped in.

The rugby stars – both of whom used to play for Tynedale – visited Corbridge’s Tynedale Park to help run a training session, much to the delight of the youngsters.

There was plenty of sporting knowledge passed down from the Falcons and it inspired the troops ahead of their friendly match with Wharfedale.

Youngsters at Hexham’s Queen Elizabeth High School also benefited from expert coaching when ex- England rugby international Pete Richards led coaching sessions with its budding rugby players.

ESPN analyst Richards, appearing as part of the ESPN Premiership Rugby Masterclasses coaching initiative, put 50 boys and girls through their paces ahead of Newcastle Falcons’ televised game with London Saracens.

The students received expert tuition and were given a chance to meet and talk rugby with Richards plus Newcastle Falcons players including Luke Fielden and Dan Fraser.

Richards said: “It was a great event with some very enthusiastic kids. I am sure they enjoyed the day and got a lot out of it.

Head of PE at QEHS Steve Mullins said: “It has been inspirational for the youngsters.

“It was great to see how the Falcons players and Pete Richards interacted with the kids.”

Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk