Darlington Rugby Club's mini section have congratulated 'old boy' Joe Osleton on his promotion to regular first team player by sponsoring his kit for the 2001/2002 season.

The 22-year-old prop forward joined the Blackwell Meadows set-up as a nine-year-old mini and has progressed through the ranks despite a medical set back which cost him three years of rugby in his early teens.

Hard work led to him being awarded the colts' captaincy and a Durham county under-18 cap. He made his full county debut last season against Leicestershire.

He now shares the first team propping duties with veteran player-coach Phil Lancaster and fellow ex-mini and junior Dan Miller.

When younger brother Dan Osleton is playing at hooker, Darlington have one of the youngest front rows in the country.

Joe, who is from Tunstall, near Richmond, expressed his gratitude to his young benefactors, who have collected money for the kit over many weeks of fundraising activities.

The mini section has also presented the club with a framed picture featuring 226 players and officials as a memento of Darlington's successful 2000/2001 season.

The picture was accepted on behalf of the club by president Eric Roberts.

The club offers rugby to all age groups from eight years upwards. For more details ring the club on 01325 363777