l SOME 62 boys, parents and siblings came down on the Effingham and Leatherhead Rugby Club 2010 Devon tour to the Ashbury Hotel at Okehampton.

Three U9 Effingham and Leatherhead RFC teams from Surrey played against Okehampton and Crediton U9s in a triangular.

Head coach of the tourist teams Duncan McRae, who himself grew up in Crediton and knows Okehampton well, told the Times: 'It had snowed during the week but on the Sunday we had glorious sunshine and were very privileged to be allowed to play on the first XV pitch right in front of the smart Okehampton RFC clubhouse and grandstand. The boys loved it and the games were very competitive and played in a great spirit.

'Okehampton has to be the friendliest club in the country and many thanks to Wayne Middleton, the head coach Okehampton of U9s and the other coaches — Dave and Trevor for their warm welcome, great organisation and kind generosity.'

Duncan added: 'It was worth coming down for the chicken curry alone!' We returned to Surrey with a coach-full of tired youngsters having all had a truly rewarding and fun experience.'