A NEW community rugby coach has been appointed in partnership with Tynedale RFC, Northumberland Rugby Development, and Northumberland County Council.

The appointment of Larry Mew follows a long tradition of Tynedale supporting the development of rugby in West Northumberland.

The role will see the newly-appointed community coach visit clubs and schools throughout the district and help develop both male and female players.

Larry, an RFU level two coach, has played rugby for Northumberland throughout his career, and also represented the county in the County Championship last year.

He said: “Coaching in a role like this is something that I have always wanted to do. I love playing rugby but I have always been told I needed a second job so this is perfect.

“Increasing participation and seeing children play not just rugby, but any sport, is what I hope I can encourage more children to do.”

Larry hopes to use his experience of playing at various levels, as well as appearing at Twickenham, and use it as a driving ambition for others to show what can be achieved.

He added: “As soon as I received the call to say that I had got the job, I was raring to go straight away. I contacted schools to arrange training sessions.

“So far I’ve visited Highfield, Ovingham, Corbridge and Ponteland middle schools, and will soon be visiting other parts of the district.

“I’m living the dream at the moment by being able to play rugby but also to teach and help younger generations to achieve success.”

Elsewhere at Tynedale, star winger Morgan Passman has been shortlisted by the Rugby Paper for its national league player of the year award, after scoring 31 tries in 19 games in his debut season.