Shropshire Rugby Rebels with a cause

Shropshire's special needs outfit, who are based at Telford Arts and Technology College (TCAT), took two sides to Limerick for the popular competition.

It proved a perfect follow-up to last year's showpiece, which was held much closer to home – at Telford Hornets.

The international tag rugby event is contested by sides across Britain, with around 400 players across the Isles.

This year's hosts were Garryowen Lions and Garryowen FC of Dooradoyle in Limerick.

It made it a memorable weekend for the 15 Shropshire players who crossed the Channel, making up over-15s and under-15s teams.

At the climax of the rugby feast, all competitors were awarded with medals and trophies as memorabilia from the event.

Wooden Spoon is the children's charity of rugby, aiming to boost opportunities for disadvantaged and disabled youngsters within the sport.

The Rebels have competed for around 13 years now with lead organisers Val Edgley, Helen Price and treasurer Karen Cope key.

They have maintained the excellent opportunities offered to those who would be otherwise unable to enjoy sporting competition.

Edgley, who is involved for the 10th year, said: "We cater for those with autism, ADHD, Down's Syndrome and those kind of things.

"It builds lots of confidence with them and is all about team building. When at home, they play each other quite regularly.

"It's fantastic to have these tournaments where they can play against other teams – it's really lovely to see.

"Originally, we were just a kids team but to give the older ones more of a base we set up tag training for them to carry on playing.

"They help in the warm-ups and training with the young ones."

Rugby greats Fergus Slattery and David Wallace – with more than 130 Irish caps between them – were among the spectators, also posing for photos and signing autographs.

Edgley's son Tom coached the over-15 set-up, while the youngsters were looked after by Neil Weston.

The Rebels hierarchy are keen to pass on their appreciation for the support they continue to receive. They held a ball a couple of months ago with donations via a raffle.

It was coupled with support from Wooden Spoon itself, it meant the players were able to enjoy another successful oversees tour.

Many of the youngsters had previously competed in Belfast, where the Rebels have featured three times over the years.

They also enjoyed a trip to Worcester, where they played against a side from Saracens and were also able to enjoy the Worcester Warriors versus Saracens Premiership clash.

The support of Ewen MacLeod and all at AT Brown Coaches – based in Telford – is also vital.

The Rebels are always looking for new members, and training sessions are held during term time on Tuesdays between 7-8pm at the TCAT Dome. Supporters and volunteers are also welcome.

Edgley and the team have also been boosted by another fundraiser. Darting superstars Eric Bristow and Bobby George headed to the Raven Hotel in Whitchurch earlier this month.

The hotel donated all proceeds from the event – £455 – to the Rebels.