AN OTLEY school is celebrating being chosen for a prestigious rugby award.

Prince Henry's Grammar School was picked for the White Rose School Rugby Core Values Schools Award following the recent White Rose Finals day.

The accolade, presented to just one school in Yorkshire, celebrates the commitment, culture and ethos which is displayed by a school's rugby fraternity.

Prince Henry's was also chosen in recognition of its 'outstanding' support of the Rugby Football Union's core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmsanship.

The RFU's Dave Duxbury and Robbie Hill visited the Otley school on Friday, May 5 to present the award.

Mr Duxbury said: "Prince Henry's were the obvious candidates for the Core Values award, not just for the Finals day but the positive influence on Rugby Union within the area.

"In a short period of time, due to the drive from core staff members, they have teams playing again at all age group including the newly developed girls’ teams.

"The school also developed a group of Young Match Officials who have supported numerous local events.

"All the coaches, players, referees within the school support the RFU Core values – which is reflected in their behaviour both at sporting fixtures and around school.

"And increased links with the local clubs, both Otliensians RUFC and Otley RUFC, have helped reinvigorate both clubs. Long may it continue!"