FORMER England coach Brian Ashton and player Danny Grewcock have been putting budding rugby stars through their paces at St John's School in Leatherhead.

Bath player Grewcock ran sessions for both junior and senior players that concentrated on handling and decision-making skills.

Ashton, former England Head Coach, spoke and demonstrated training routines at a RFU Rugby Teacher Development Day held at St John's. St John's pupils benefited from Ashton's coaching as they were used to illustrate coaching methods and St John's rugby coaches also attended the course.

St John's are hoping that these sessions, together with ongoing training, will pay dividends as they leave on July 18 for a rugby tour to Australia which will see them play five games in 18 days.

Nick Platt, director of sport, said: "The standard of rugby at St John's is currently very high as a result of the quality coaches we have in the school as well as being able to call upon such high profile coaches as Danny and Brian. Brian's son Tony is joining St John's in September having previously worked for the RFU with the England Senior Team."