YOUNG rugby players in Derwentside are being trained by coaches from New Zealand.

Tasi Tuhana and Daniel Cavanagh are touring schools in the district passing on advice.

They both play for Consett Rugby Football Club and Mr Tuhuna, a hooker, is captain of County Durham Rugby Football Union.

In New Zealand, Mr Cavanagh, a fly half, plays for the country's Army Colts.

The players are visiting six schools in the district to carry out six training sessions with various age groups.

At the end of the sessions there will be an inter-school tournament and Derwentside teams will be chosen at different levels to play other districts.

Mr Tuhana said: "In New Zealand, the young people have more developed rugby skills because it is the first game they play.

"The kids here are more enthusiastic in training because it is something new and they are more physical.

"We want them to find their skills and take them on a bit."

The sessions have been organised in conjunction with Consett Rugby Club to attract younger members.

Club secretary John O'Connor said: "The New Zealand All Blacks are the leading rugby brand, so it is great to have these guys here.

"They capture the imagination of the children with their Kiwi accents who respond excellently because they have a different style and it is fresh and new."