CHAMPION BEN MEETS HIS FANS.

Byline: DEBBIE JOHNSON

MERSEYSIDE'S rug by champ Ben Kay is used to tackling slightly bigger competition than these two.

The World Cup winner paid a visit to St Nicholas Cof E Primary in Blundellsands, where he met young fans Jonathan Wu, four, and Lucy Kerfoot,five.

The 29-year-old second row has strong links with the school, after running coaching sessions during his time at Waterloo Rugby Club. He also organised a fundraising dinner for the school, with guest of honour another World Cup winner,Nobby Stiles.

St Nicholas'is an Activemark Gold winning school, an award which is given in recognition of its sporting achievements. Ben officially presented the prize to head of PE, Heather Cave,and to children from winning teams.

Ben, who was a former pupil at Merchant Taylors School in Crosby, said: ``I think this is a great school and I was really pleased to come back. ``The children here are lucky to be given access to so much sport,and they all enjoy it, which is really important in later life. I visit a lot of schools and you would be amazed at how little organised exercise some of the kids have access to. Here it's a different story.

``I was more than happy to come back and visit.''

Speaking to the children, he told them how important team work and fitness was -and how it helped the England team win the Cup.

He said: ``When we were at a draw,and had to play the extra time, instead of resting during the break, Jonny Wilkinson was away in a corner practising his kicks -and as we all know, that turned out to be quite important.''

Headteacher Graham Walker said: ``We are very proud of our achievements and our positive attitude to sport and fitness here,and it was lovely to have someone like Ben pay us a visit. He shows just what can be achieved.''

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WINNERS: Ben Kay shows off his strength to Jonathan and Lucy and,inset with Lydia Papworth