AN MP yesterday paid tribute to a rugby club when he presented awards at a youth festival.

Hugh Bayley, MP for the City of York, was at York Rugby Union Football Club to present the prizes at the club's fourth annual rugby youth festival, at the city's Clifton park.

Almost 900 players from across the North of England were involved in the event.

York RUFC's youth section has enjoyed huge success. The under-11s won the Yorkshire Cup, last season's under-13 played at Twickenham to win the Prudential Cup and 14 of the squad represent North Yorkshire.

Five players represent Yorkshire and one has been chosen to play for England at under-16 level.

Speaking at yesterday's event, Mr Bayley said: "It's great to see so many young people playing rugby at such a high standard.

"York RUFC have done a fantastic job hosting today's event and I wish all the clubs that have taken part success in the future."