Rugby mad pupils at Amesbury School, in Hindhead, were delighted, as  South African world cup hero Chester Williams jointed 10 boys from the Ivory Coast, in a visit to the school, last Monday.

The visit was arranged on behalf of the Tour Aid rugby charity which supports disadvantaged children across the globe. The boys from the Elite rugby club, based in the Ivory Coast capital. Abidjan, are staying with school's familities for the week. During this time, they will experience life in the school and local area, and compete in the Tullow Oil Cup at Cobham and Esher rugby clubs's; which started yesterday (Thursday).

But the visitors highlight so far, was meeting South African world cup-winner, Chester Williams. Mr Williams visited the school on Monday and took a rugby training session with the boys from the Ivory Coast and members of the Amesbury 1st team. Director of Sport at Amesbury, Martin Bartlett said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for all the boys involved. From the moment they first touched down the boys bonded incredibly well, using the universal language of sport to help them through any language barriers they faced. It has been a very emotional week for all those involved."

The visitors have also recorded music in the school's studio, designed their own T-shirts, used school computers, and today (Friday) will cruise down the Thames and visit the London Eye. The boys crom the Ivory Coast have only played rugby for three months and many are ophans from families with disadvantaged backgrounds.

At present their school in Africa has no computers or sports equipment, and relies on public transport to access facilities.

In the future, the Abidjan community is hoping to build a new school with better facilities and a sports pitch to provide further opportunities for the children. Visit www.touraid.co.uk for more information.

The Herald 10th October 2008