A RUGBY team as been recognised for its work in the community.

Newcastle Falcons won best Community Scheme at the Premier Rugby Marketing Awards.

The Falcons' community programme supports schools and organisations through sporting or fundraising activities.

During the past season, it has helped grassroots rugby and charities. It has also donated items to auctions and raffles, while the team has visited schools, rugby clubs and been involved in the community.

Programme manager Mark Foster said: "This award goes to all of the Newcastle Falcons team who have so generously given up their free time to visit local schools and organisations, and to all the youngsters in the region who are keeping the game of rugby alive."

The award is voted for by Premier Rugby, RFU, Sky Sports, BBC, Zurich, Synergy Sports Marketing and Octagon.