YOUNGSTERS in Northallerton have been given a big boost in their rugby hopes by local Ford dealer CD Bramall.

Branch manager Merv Salway and Chris Whincup, chairman of youth rugby at Northallerton RFC, handed over a free Ford Tag Rugby pack containing balls, tag belts, bag, coaching video and booklet to Bullamoor and Romanby junior schools.

In addition, financial support from CD Bramall Ford will allow the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to provide each school with four coaching sessions in order to learn the game of Ford Tag Rugby. This will culminate in a sporting extravaganza when the schools take part in a festival.

Mr Salway said: "Ford Tag Rugby addresses an important social issue that is relevant to all parents with young children. The amount of sport played by kids in primary schools has dropped to less than 30 minutes each week and the budget for sport equipment is around £120 per school each year.

"Through our work with the RFU we are able to deliver equipment and coaching in Northallerton and give children the chance to experience the fun and excitement of rugby and local competition."

The RFU's rugby development officer for North Yorkshire, John Lawn, said: "Tag rugby eliminates body contact, which makes it suitable for boys and girls to play together."