GWENT Olympian Sam Cross passed on some top tips to Griffithstown AFC Under-12s after they won a cash boost.

The Wales rugby international from Brynmawr, who won silver for Team GB at Rio 2016, visited the Gwent club as part of the Aldi Sports Bursary competition.

Griffithstown AFC under-12s were one of ten winners which meant that had a coaching and meet and greet session with Cross, a cash prize of £1,500 to buy equipment and improve facilities and Aldi vouchers to buy products from its Specialbuys range.

The club’s Sarah Lampard said: “Grassroots sports are important to our local community. They provide a sense of belonging and togetherness for the players, and with it grows a community with families on the sidelines.

The prizes will ensure the stability of our team and club and allow these wonderful things to continue to happen now and in the future. Thank you, Aldi!’’

The team enjoyed an afternoon with the Team GB athlete, learning how to better their skills and quiz Cross on his Olympic prep routine and how he has mastered his talent.

The back row forward, who played for Wales at sevens and 15s, said: “I am honoured to have been able to meet a team in my local area and be able to hear their stories and share my experience with them.

“I have seen first-hand how support from sponsors of Team GB and ParalympicsGB such as Aldi can provide the necessary funding to fulfil dreams and spark joy back into sporting communities.

“My local sports club was so important to me growing up; those who were part of it inspired my athletic career, and I am grateful to have been a part of this initiative to encourage that for future generations.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club, and the members of Griffithstown AFC Under 12s were great and soaked up all the tips and tricks I gave them. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this much-deserved funding will have on the group.”