AROUND 50 youngsters were treated to some expert coaching this week from former England international John Bentley plus Leeds Tykes' skipper Carl Hogg and team-mate James Ponton.

They gave a special training session to young players, aged between 9 and 15, at Malton and Norton Rugby Club on Monday. After receiving coaching on kicking, catching and ball-handling skills, youngsters took part in a high-ball competition, with signed Leeds Tykes' T-shirts going to the winners.

James McKay, who helped to organise the session and who also plays for Malton and Norton's first team, said: "It went really well and the kids really enjoyed it. John Bentley said he was really impressed with them."

It is the second time in three months the Zurich Premiership club has sent players to Ryedale to coach youngsters. Back in November, John Bentley, who is a community development officer with Leeds Tykes, visited Malton School and Norton College with two other players. James McKay said another session might take place in the summer.

Updated: 10:01 Wednesday, February 19, 2003