Almost 100 children emulated their rugby heroes by stepping onto the pitch at Allianz Park for a winter training camp yesterday.

Less than 24 hours after the Saracens squad held their first training session on the artificial turf, children from across Barnet and the surrounding area took part in their own practice drills on the surface.

Young players aged between seven and 16 were joined by a couple of club professionals at the Premiership club’s new home ground, formerly the Copthall Stadium

Hooker Scott Spurling and back Jackson Wray gave the hopefuls a few hints and tips during skills drills in the day-long session.

The activity day was one in a series of paid-for camps put on by the club over the Christmas and new year period.

Saracens representative Mike Hartwell said: “It was very useful to see what we can do when we welcome community groups and schools in the coming months.

“It was a good opportunity to use the pitch and the children loved it – it went really well.”