BUCS Home Nations Rugby Success

Northumbria University welcomed home a trio of international stars to Tyneside after the annual BUCS Home Nations rugby union event.

Both Chloe Atkinson and Victoria Britland returned with winners' medals after England clinched gold in the four-team tournament.

The Northumbria duo played in all three games - beating Scotland (24-15), Northern Ireland (28-10) and Wales (26-19).

Atkinson and Britland earned their call-ups after playing pivotal roles in an end-of-season charge at Bullocksteads.

Northumbria's women won six of their last eight BUCS League games - earning the attention of the England Universities selectors.

Northumbria's Rugby Development Officer Si Culley said: "Everyone is very proud of what Chloe and Vikki achieved with England and they richly deserve their gold medals.

"Northumbria women were one of rugby union's form teams heading into the final few weeks of this season's BUCS competition.

"The two call-ups are something the whole squad can celebrate."

Culley also heaped praise on Northumbria's sole representative in the England Universities men's team after Tommy Banks earned a place in the backs.

Although there was no medal joy for England this season - after three successive defeats - the selection of Banks provided a muchneeded boost following a tough campaign.

Culley added: "Tommy has been a key player in our first XV all season and has often impressed.

"He was part of the team which beat Newcastle University in the Stan Calvert Cup and fully deserved his callup."

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