Harry gives Devon rugby club gold award

Prince Harry visited Paignton Rugby Club, Devon, last night, for more rugby-centred work.

The Prince was there to award the Queens Park club a Gold Standard for their facilities, from the Rugby Football Union.

The Paignton club is part of the RFU’s All Schools Programme, which develops more opportunities for youngsters to enjoy the game. It has managed to get a number of local schools to join up, and fostered community spirit through the sport.

This year’s rugby World Cup was opened by Harry, and he and William and Catherine, have attended a number of matches to show their support.

Prince Harry presented the club with an RFU Gold Standard facilities award to recognise the effort and quality of the local club, including their participation in the RFU’s Lead Up and Legacy Social schemes. He handed the award to the club’s president Norman Harries.

Mr Harries said: “We are truly honoured to receive this outstanding award.

“This has been accomplished together and will make a big difference to the lives of young people.”

Former Captain Wales took time to watch tap youngsters’ training session on the pitch, though didn’t join in, dressed in a navy suit. He spent time chatting to local schoolchildren players, coaches and volunteers in the sport, of which is his a big fan.

A pair of rugby boots were gifted to Harry by the team captain’s son, James Talbot. The Adidas boots were personalised with ‘Prince Harry’ embroidered on them.

Norman Harries said to the Torquay Herald after the event:

“Harry is a fantastic down-to-earth person. You see him on the television, sat in the stands enjoying his rugby, and he was just like that this evening.”

The 31-year-old said it would be ‘fantastic’ if Japan won the World Cup, currently underway in the UK, after he questioned the youngsters who they wanted to win, since England’s last weekend.

The eastern team are to host the World Cup in 2019.

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