A YOUNG rugby player had a special treat at the weekend when he got to run out at Twickenham as a mascot before the England versus South Africa game.

Josh Crozier, from Stockton Rugby Club, had the honour of accompanying old boy Geoff Parling onto the pitch in recognition of grassroots contribution to international rugby.

The under 12 player was joined on the trip by his father, Simon, who is still playing senior rugby at 38 and is also a coach at the club.

Josh said: “The best part was walking out onto the pitch with Geoff Parling, who used to play for my club Stockton RFC. Geoff was very friendly and recognised me in the tunnel as we’d met at the training day at Pennyhill Park.”

The England international, who played for Stockton from being an under 12 to under 16, also visited the club’s ground at Pennyhill earlier in the month to share his experiences.

Mr Corzier added: “It was a great day and we really enjoyed it. I had a lump in my throat as I watched Josh run on and I was very proud of him.”