Birkenhead Park’s youngsters have been chosen to appear on a TV rugby show

Feb 25 2009 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

BIRKENHEAD Park’s youngsters are set to become stars of the small screen after receiving expert coaching from former England star Austin Healey.

The club’s junior colts have been selected to appear in ITV’s ‘The Big Tackle’ and filming has begun at the Upper Park.

The 35-year-old from Wirral has returned to his roots with the aim of inspiring the teenagers to promotion.

Healey, who won 51 England caps and played for the British Lions during an illustrious career, joined Park when he was seven and spent a decade at the club before moving on to Waterloo, Orrell and then Leicester.

“This was the place where I first picked up a rugby ball and it’s great to be back,” Healey said.

“I’m really enjoying working with the under-17s. They are a good bunch with lots of characters.

Each programme will premiere on ITV4 on Sunday evenings after the Guinness Premiership Rugby highlights, and will be repeated midweek on ITV1.

Park director of rugby John McNally said: “We were approached by the TV company to see if we had a suitable side for this project. The fact Austin used to play here helped as well.

“The junior colts fitted the bill as they have not been too successful, but they are very keen and learning all the time.