ELLESMERE Port RUFC youngsters were given a day to remember when an Aviva Premiership star visited their training session.

New Sale Sharks signing Luther Burrell was on hand to answer questions, have his picture taken, sign autographs and give tips on how to make it to the top of English rugby.

Centre Burrell, 23, a former England youth international who was the top try scorer for Leeds Carnegie last season, told the Port youngsters that hard work is the key and that they must be prepared to train in the dark and wet through winter if they are to become better players.

The club’s junior section chairman Mark Davies said: “I’d like to thank Luther and Sale Sharks for giving the lads this opportunity.

“It’s great that Sale Sharks support grassroots rugby in this way and inspire young players to be part of the game and aspire to play at the highest level.

“We have some excellent youth players in a strong junior section, which is the lifeblood of the rugby club and essential for the future.”

Burrell’s visit was part of the Sharks’ ‘Community Connections’ programme which the Port have signed up for.

Ellesmere Port 2nds won a one-sided game 34-3 at home to Widnes 4ths on Saturday thanks to tries from Jerry Phillip (2), Ant Jones, Pete Doyle, Lee Percival and Elliot Edwards, who added two conversions. New boy Ian Hawkins was the man of the match.

Rob Finlay scored a consolation try as the 3rds were beaten 39-7 at Prenton 3rds.

Port’s first team were without a match and resume their league programme at old foes Crewe & Nantwich on Saturday (3pm).