BOURNEMOUTH youngster Orin Bayliss had his moment in the spotlight after walking out as a Rugby World Cup mascot.

The 12-year-old accompanied Italy ahead of their 32-22 Pool D victory over Romania at Exeter Chiefs' Sandy Park home.

And the Bournemouth School pupil's memorable day continued when he took a seat in the stands to watch the action unfold.

Bayliss said: “I really enjoyed being a mascot, I loved every minute of it. The best bit was walking out on to the pitch with the players because the atmosphere was really good and it was almost a surreal experience.

“The game was really good as well and it was nice that my team beat the team my sister was mascot for!”

Bayliss received the seal of approval for his efforts from 2003 World Cup winner Lawrence Dallaglio.

The England legend said: “So many people will have been watching in the stadium and all around the world and Orin can always say that he played a part in the country hosting the competition.

“I’ve no doubt the experience will live with the mascots for a very long time and, hopefully, it can inspire them going forward, whether that is to one day play for their country or just to continue to enjoy rugby, which is what it’s all about really.

“It’s great to have young players from all around the country involved in the World Cup by inviting them to be mascots.

“All those international players competing on the pitch would have come through from grassroots level, so the mascots will have got a real sense of what can be achieved.”

The World Cup semi-finals are due to take place this weekend with New Zealand facing South Africa and Australia meeting Argentina.

Land Rover is a worldwide partner of Rugby World Cup 2015 and is recruiting all 96 official mascots for the tournament as part of its 'We Deal In Real' campaign. Follow @LandRoverRugby #WeDealInReal.