TOP sporting students at Bournemouth’s Bishop of Winchester Academy were treated to a full training session with Rugby Union wing and fullback Thinus Delport. The Cheltenham-based player who made his senior debut in 1997 on the Springboks’ European Tour, joined Head of PE Nick McGill on the pitch to give demonstrations and advice.

The training was followed by a question and answer session.

Speaking after his visit Mr Delport said: “I love the opportunity to help inspire young players and it’s great that the academy is encouraging pupils to take part in the sport.”

Mr McGill said large numbers of students from all years play rugby and the school has now signed a three year contract with the Rugby Football Union to support a long-term development plan to engage more rugby participation at the academy.