POPPY Cleall paid tribute to Steve Benson – her former coach at Ellingham & Ringwood – following her selection for England women's Six Nations squad.

The Alderholt-raised lock has been included in the 33-player Red Roses line-up for the tournament which gets under way at the beginning of February.

Speaking about Benson, who is now the Es' director of rugby, Cleall said: “Steve was always passionate and knowledgeable about rugby.

"You could tell he really enjoyed coaching and would always go out of his way for anyone."

Cleall, who has also played for Wimborne, is currently plying her trade with Women's Premiership leaders Bristol. She won the competition with Saracens in 2015.

The combative forward won her first international cap in last year's Six Nations when she came off the bench in a 32-0 victory over Scotland.

Later this month, five of Ellingham’s players will hope to follow in Cleall's footsteps as they have been selected to trial for London and South East Division.

The five players are Alicia Maude, Olivia Horton, Ava Seymour, Megan Renshaw and Georgia Lang.