Talented young Cockermouth RU back-rower Grant Seward has been selected for the North Under-18s, which could lead to an England cap.

Seward is one of three Cumbrians to be chosen, along with Paul Harrison, a scrum half (Austin Friars School) and Nathaniel Mossop, a prop (Carlisle RFC/Gosforth HS).

Cumbria, who enjoyed a very good age group County Championship campaign, had nine players at the North trial on Sunday.

The Cumbria coaching team were all in attendance at Sunday’s trial with Matt Shields and Graham Kidd taking lead roles on the day.

Nigel Beaty, the Cumbria Under-18’s lead coach said: “We thought the boys performed really well, especially as it was obviously another step up in standard for some of the players.

“To have three players make the final squad is fantastic for Cumbria rugby. There would have been some close calls on selection and a couple of players are on stand-by and may still be called up.”

He added: “The performance of the players this season has helped re-invigorate the Cumbrian youth programme and we hope the players coming through the age groups can see what is possible and aim high!”