IT was an afternoon learning about light tackles, scrums and long-distance kicks for children with life-limiting diseases.

Residents and their carers from Naomi House and Jacksplace spent the day with players from London Irish RFC at their ground at Hazelwood learning all about the dos and don’ts of the game.

With the help of first team players, Jamie Hagan, Topsy Ojo and Tom Smallbone, the children were given a guided tour of the brand new state-of-the-art training complex, before taking part in a rugby master class where they were put through their paces.

As the afternoon drew to a close two signed Naomi House and Jacksplace Hospice branded shirts were donated to the charity for auction, as well as some signed squad posters.

Head of fundraising from Naomi House, Paul Morgan, said: “The children absolutely loved being part of the day and, from the charity’s perspective, its generated great awareness. We have to raise £7m every year to run the charity, less than 10 per cent of which we receive from government, so the support we receive from individuals, groups, businesses and trusts is crucial. Our fundraising ensures we can operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, free of charge.

“We would like to thank the team at Upham and London Irish for this wonderful opportunity to give the children a very special experience.”

The visit was arranged after Upham decided to donate its shirt branding rights to the hospice following the European Challenge Cup game against Grenoble in France, where alcohol sponsorship is banned.

David Butcher, director of Upham Brewery, said: “We were delighted to donate the space on the players’ shirts for last week’s game to Naomi House and Jacksplace. The brewery is community-focused and a keen supporter of the charity and their commitment to helping both sick children and their families who have to contend with severe illness.”