A SCHOOL will soon be able to offer rugby training sessions to its pupils after securing a substantial grant.

Hurworth Comprehensive School, near Darlington, has been awarded £3,737 from the National Lottery Awards for All scheme.

PE teacher Michael Garmston and Emma Coleby, sports development officer with Darlington Borough Council, put together the bid to enable after-school sessions to be held.

The money will be used to buy equipment including goal posts and tackle pads, and to pay for qualified rugby coaches.

Mr Garmston, a former pupil at Hurworth, has been hoping to introduce rugby since he returned to the school as a teacher.

He said: "We're aiming this at year seven and year eight pupils initially. I started playing rugby at the school and I wanted to give the kids the same chance I had.

"I'm also hoping to make links with the local clubs, like Darlington and Mowden Park."

Mr Garmston, who plays rugby for Darlington, said: "I was worried because I didn't think the grant was going to come through, so I'm really pleased. I think it's good for the school."

The eventual aim is to form a school team which could play in local and national competitions.

The school is looking for coaches to help train the youngsters. Anyone interested is asked to contact the school on (01325) 720424.