RUGBY UNION has gone from strength to strength at Parkside School after parent Steve Welch teamed up with head Andrew Taylor.

The pair have run Friday after-school rugby sessions for about 18 months, culminating in the recent Parkside Rugby Tour.

Two teams from the Cullingworth school competed in a sports festival at Workington RUFC, playing against boys from towns including Cockermouth.

Mr Taylor said rugby union had grown at Parkside due to Steve's commitment and expertise.

The Rugby Football Union had awarded Parkside All School status, entitling it to £10,000 of funding over three years to ‘embed’ the sport in the school.

Parkside has also forged “fantastic” links with Keighley RUFC, with both students and staff now playing for the town’s team.

Mr Taylor added: “The Parkside Rugby Tour was a huge success with both teams doing themselves and the school proud.

“No quarter was given against any opposition teams and indeed both sides managed to come away with one win.

“The atmosphere was great and the organisation was very tight but spot on. The lads are a credit to Parkside."