ENGLAND Rugby star Tatyana Heard will return to Malton & Norton RUFC this weekend as part of a new programme that will connect the Red Roses with community clubs ahead of the 2025 Rugby World Cup.

The Kirkbymoorside talent will visit The Gannock tomorrow (Saturday) between 10am and 1pm.

Heard made her first forays into the sport with Malton aged 11 before going on to international fame as part of England’s Grand Slam-winning squad.

She currently has 21 Red Roses appearances to her name, and played a vital role in both attack and defence during their successful Guinness Six Nations campaign earlier this year.

The inside centre will kick off her day in Ryedale with some tag-based games before taking part in a Q&A at the club, answering questions about her journey from Italy, via Kirkbymoorside and Malton, to England stardom.

She has also pledged to donate one of her England shirts to be put on display.

Heard, who was a part of Malton & Norton’s successful girls programme between 2010 and 2012, has continued to support the club, and returned alongside fellow England star Rachel Lund in 2016 to view their progress.

It is believed that visit inspired Morwenna Talling to strive for international honours.

Explaining her decision to return to Ryedale, Heard said: “There is a huge opportunity to engage and grow the girls’ game, especially as we lead up to hosting Rugby World Cup 2025. 

“I am so excited to return to my home and see all the people connected with the club. 

“Rugby has given me so much, and I’m excited to see more girls giving rugby a go as we build towards next year’s Rugby World Cup.”