MALVERN Rugby Football Club's Youth development policy has scored another notable success with scrum-half Tom O'Brien joining Zurich Premiership club London Irish.

Eighteen-year-old Tom, who represented the Midlands at last season's Divisional Championships, was spotted by London Irish captain Conor O'Shea at a summer training camp organised by the IRFU and was invited to join their Under 21 squad.

Former Chase High School student Tom said: "The call from London Irish came right out of the blue. I had planned to study sports science at either Worcester or Birmingham and obviously would have hoped to play rugby locally.

"This is a bit of a leap into the unknown, but one I'm really looking forward to. I've also been offered a place at Brunel University where I can study for my degree while training and playing."

Gary Tolley, chairman of Youth Development at Malvern said: "This is a great opportunity for Tom, and we all wish him well! We have a number of talented youngsters coming through our junior ranks and if they can show the same commitment and hard work as Tom they could also have bright futures in the game."

Tom, who departs for London this week, said "I am grateful for all the help and support I've had from Malvern over the years and will do my best to 'fly the flag' for Malvern whenever I can!"

Anyone wishing to join MRFC or who may want further information should contact Gary Tolley on (01684) 573728.