Young rugby players from Redruth RFC had a chance to join the 'Parade of Champions' at the Aviva Premiership Rugby Final last Saturday.

The under 12s from the club earned the right to take part in the walk out in front of a sell-out Twickenham crowd after they won the Exeter Chiefs Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup.

The players also met the Rugby World Cup winning captain, Martin Johnson, who had come to congratulate the young stars and share some advice and guidance.

Martin Johnson, said: “I would love to have had an opportunity like this when I was younger. To parade as a champion at Twickenham is a unique opportunity that they won’t forget. I hope today’s experience will help to encourage all these great players to continue playing rugby.

After meeting with their rugby hero, the young rugby enthusiasts got to watch the exciting battle where Leicester Tigers were crowned Aviva Premiership Rugby Champions. Not only did they get to see their heroes play at Twickenham but they got to parade around the pitch at half time to celebrate their Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup win in front of a sell-out crowd.

Youngster Jordan Sidwell said, “I can’t believe I went to Twickenham and met Martin Johnson. It was really exciting; to go on the pitch at half time of the Aviva Premiership Rugby Final and walk out there in front of so many people was amazing. I now really want to play there when I’m older."

Jeremy Hicks, MD of Jaguar Land Rover UK, which arranged the visit, said: “Today is a very special day for everyone at Land Rover. It gives us great delight that through the Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup these young, aspiring rugby players are able to fulfil a dream and come to Twickenham and meet Martin Johnson, somebody they aspire to be. The tournament is a significant initiative of which we are very proud, and which provides a unique opportunity for young players to channel their enthusiasm for the sport and to play in a national tournament."