A BURTON Bradstock teenager will represent England Schools at the prestigious SANIX World Rugby Youth Tournament in Japan this Spring.

Joe Elsworth, who started playing rugby at Bridport Rugby Club and has just turned 17, has been playing in the U18 Exeter Chiefs Academy and is studying A-Levels at Exeter College whilst attending their rugby academy.

The 30-man Exeter College squad has been asked to represent England Schools and Colleges and will be playing teams from around the world including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Fiji.

The squad have been working hard to raise the £40,000 needed for the trip and Elsworth and the team are looking for sponsors.

Elsworth, who has already managed to secure two local sponsors, said: “I am incredibly grateful to Bridport Building Supplies and CG Fry & Son for sponsoring me and supporting my fundraising to enable me to attend this tournament.

“It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity and the team and I are training very hard to make sure we perform to the best of our ability.”

The team are still looking for businesses to support the tour via JustGiving.

Search for ‘Exeter College Support Group Japan 2019’ and follow the team on social media.