BUDE RFC’s Alfie Johns took part in an England Under 17s development squad training camp in Burton-upon-Trent on Saturday.

The 17-year-old forward, who is with the Exeter Chiefs Academy and attends Exeter College, is equally adept in any of the three back-row positions and has caught the eye recently with a string of impressive displays.

He was one of six Chiefs named in the 57-man squad with the others being forwards Tyler Knightley, Mawgan Talling and Harry Westlake, plus backs Charlie Bosanko and Harry Pidwell.

Reflecting on the day, Johns told the Post: “It was a great first experience.

“I am still finding my feet in a new set-up with what seemed like a fairly established squad.

“I am excited and looking forward to getting my name on the map for Cornwall. I feel I’ve been exposed to the set-up early and I am where I need be and will focus on what’s ahead whether that is under 18s or under 20s.”

Assistant coach Will Parkin, speaking during the week, also gave an insight, saying: “As we reach the apex of our season at under 18 level, this weekend offers a window for our staff to integrate some new faces to our pathway.

“The focus of our spring under 17s men’s camps is to welcome a number of players to the pathway for the first time. As it is for all our pathway groups, this camp will be all around the players developing and getting better within our environment here at England.

"What we also have ahead of us are upcoming camps in May with a fixture against Hartpury, as we start to prepare for what lies ahead in the summer with a tour to South Africa. This is a chance for some of these players to put their hands up ahead of that.”