A QUARTET of talented rugby players from Northallerton college have been selected to play at county level.

Three of them - Dan Bird, Mark Robson and Chris Dixon - were chosen for North Yorkshire after attending a trial in York. They represented the county in a rugby festival in York last weekend, with Chris Dixon captaining the side.

The fourth, Ollie Saville, will play for County Durham.

Their coach at Northallerton college, Gavin Hamilton, said: "All four are outstanding players. They work hard and their attitude to the game is spot on. They're a joy to work with."

The selections come at a time when the long-standing link with Northallerton Rugby Club has been reinforced with further support and access to national funding.

PE teacher Alistair Macrae said: "We really value the continuing assistance we receive from the Northallerton club through our link with Chris Whincup.

"The selections also reflect the higher profile which rugby is enjoying since the arrival of Gavin Hamilton on the staff of the college last September."