A BOLTON junior rugby union player took centre stage at a top event in London.

Weyland Smith, aged nine, started playing rugby at Bolton Rugby Club at the age of four and has just been given a Blue Peter badge for his commitment to sport.

He was involved in the 'Go Local - Promoting sport and volunteering in sport' event to talk about love for rugby.

He said: "I was interviewed on stage by Tess Daly talking about why I enjoy the sport.

" I hope I encouraged the 10,000 in the audience to try rugby or join in any sports activity.

"Tess did make a mistake on stage, that I pointed it out to her and the whole audience laughed (that was a bit embarrassing).

"I also encourage my school friend and always help out at the rugby club open day, which is always great fun."

The youngster has enjoyed success by winning various titles including the coaches player of the match award.