A RUGBY mad East Lancashire youngster is to lead the England squad out onto the field at Twickenham tomorrow.

James Bancroft, 11, will step onto the hallowed turf for the Six Nations tie against Italy.

James, a Year 7 pupil at St Mary's Hall, Stonyhurst, is a member of the England Young Supporters' Club and had applied several times to be a mascot.

He said: "I am so excited to be leading the England team out onto the field next Saturday. I feel very honoured.

"I am such a fan and watched their great win against Scotland this weekend.

"I hoped that I might be their lucky mascot for their next match!"