Organised by the Vale of Glamorgan Council's rugby development officer Matt Silva, the camp saw players from four local youth teams pick up tips from their rugby hero and gain a fascinating insight into life in the RAF.

The evening featured a variety of fun activities. Matt and Tom ran a game-specific rugby skills session where the Cardiff Blues centre also joined in. RAF physical training instructors then put the youngsters through their paces, while team building games required communication and mental agility skills to solve puzzles.

The youngsters were also addressed by the RAF careers unit to make them aware of the opportunities available in the RAF, while the evening ended with them being taken to the mess to enjoy some RAF cuisine.

Fifty teenagers representing four local clubs - Llantwit Major, Cowbridge, Penarth and Barry - attended the camp, and Matt Silva said: "All of the youngsters thoroughly enjoyed themselves. It was fantastic for them to learn from an international rugby star and they also had the chance to get to know Tom better by asking him a few questions. Tom also commented that he really enjoys meeting local school and club players."

Matt added: "This was the fourth annual RAF rugby camp and we are already looking forward to welcoming next year's batch of players. I'd like to thank everyone involved at RAF St Athan and the youth team coaches from Llantwit Major and Barry who were also a great help."

Seventeen-year-old Ryan Evans from Llantwit Major had an extra special evening after he was named the camp's 'most outstanding participant'. Ryan was presented with a rugby ball signed by Tom Shanklin after being commended for his pro-active approach and enthusiasm in all of the sessions.

To find out more about rugby in the Vale of Glamorgan, please visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/sportsdevelopment.