ENGLAND women's rugby captain Joanne Yapp has presented Blessed Edward Oldcorne RC High School with a prestigious award for its introduction and promotion of the game.

The Rugby Union star, who plays for Worcester Ladies and has represented her country 42 times, handed the Awards For All certificate to Charlotte Keys, the school's rugby teacher.

The accolade acknowledges the Timberdine Avenue school's commitment to the rough-and-tumble sport - which looks certain to continue well into the future.

"Rugby for girls has taken off terrifically," said Ms Keys, who has just returned from a tour of South Africa.

"I'm sure girls' rugby will thrive as a result of this award."

The scheme is part of a Lottery grant programme, supported by the Arts Council of England, Heritage Lottery Fund, The New Opportunities Fund and Sports for England.

Mrs Yapp has played in two World Cups - in Holland in 1998 and Barcelona in 2002 - and has also toured to Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Canada.