BOLTON School Boys’ Division head of sport Paul Fernside's work in rugby union has been recognised at national level.

He travelled to Twickenham to receive an award from the Rugby Football Union and Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer Recognition Programme for his contributions to the sport.

Mr Fernside, who is also in charge of rugby at the school, was nominated by John Morgan, who said: "Paul has made an enormous contribution to Lancashire Schools rugby over the last two decades.

"As head of sport at Bolton School, he has overseen the development of rugby at the school, providing opportunities for many boys to play against the strongest rugby-playing schools in the North of England each week.

"He has also helped develop rugby in the local schools, regularly providing support and facilities for them to play at Bolton School.

"His valuable influence also extends to Lancashire Schools where he held the role of chairman for four years, and was responsible for running the county inter-schools cup competitions for many years.”