A PARTY of French rugby players have been enjoying Leigh's generous hospitality on their Easter tour.

Leigh Miners Rangers junior section, hosting the fourth bi-annual tour from their French counterparts Ville Francye de Rouergue, have organised trips, entertainment and matches for the 54 strong squad.

Their itinerary has included a welcome at the Miners' Club on Saturday followed by tickets to the Widnes v Leeds match on Sunday followed by entertainment at the Sportsman.

On Monday an under 12s match ended in a highly entertaining 18-18 draw while the second game brought a competitive victory for the Miners U14 and 15 mixed team.

On Tuesday the squads left for a trip to Blackpool and a trip to the Trafford Centre on Wednesday was followed by a civic reception and tour of Wigan Town Hall by the Mayor, Cllr Wilf Brogan, then a visit to Leigh Conservative Club's Sky Bar in the evening.

On behalf of the club Jean Nicholson said: "We would like to thank all the helpers and sponsors including Asda, Waterfields, Culcheth Spice, BNFL and Blackpool's Under Bar."

Next year the Miners Rangers U11s and U14s stars will head off for an Easter tour in France, but not before the £17,000 needed to finance the trip has been raised!