Congratulations to Tynedale Colt and Falcons Academy U18 player Ben Robson who has been selected in the England U17 development squad for this month’s training camp to be held in Newcastle (27-28 April).

Sixteen-year-old Ben plays in the back five of the forwards where he is a very fit, high-energy, combative player who likes to play the game at a high pace. He learned his rugby with Tynedale Youth section and Hexham High School before moving schools to Gosforth Academy last September.

The camp will allow pathway coaches an opportunity to discuss playing themes with the squad ahead of the England U18 summer tour to South Africa, as well as take a closer look at the players before selecting the group for the August tour.

There will also be an opportunity to train against Scotland in a number of different scenarios during the camp.

England Coach Jim Mallender said: “We had a training weekend between our north and south U17 groups and from that we have selected a smaller squad for this development camp in Newcastle.

“During the weekend we’ll have a training exercise with Scotland, which will be useful and allows a further chance to look closer at this group. Ultimately this will form the basis of the squad we take to South Africa for our summer development tour in August, which marks the start of our U18 international season.

“This camp is really the start of their journey and a chance for us to introduce them to the playing themes in which we want them to explore as they progress through the pathway.”

All Tynedale RFC wish Ben all the best on this well deserved place and we all know that he will play well and show off the talent that is being produced through the Tynedale Youth Section and the local schools. Good luck Ben - Enjoy it.