APPRENTICE rugby star Tom Everard is toasting a two-year deal with London Irish Rugby Academy.

The 16-year-old former Salisbury Cathedral School pupil from Alderbury, who came through the ranks at Salisbury RFC minis, juniors and colts, has been plucked out of an array of budding players to join the professional rugby union club in September.

“Being selected by London Irish has enabled Thomas to achieving his rugby dream,” said his parents Stephanie and Peter.

The 6ft 5in number 8, a pupil at Milton Abbey School, who is currently studying for his A-levels, started playing the game at the age of eight.

Proving to have a knack for the sport, he was coached as a youngster by Richard Lloyd, and got a taste of professional life when he represented Salisbury in the under 12s national final Twickenham.

After that, Everard started playing for the county Dorset and Wilts Section, which culminated with his appointment as captain during a match with Somerset.

In just six months’ time, the teenager will join the elite players’ academy after being picked through trials in January.

During the two-year spell, Everard will continue to study his chosen subjects of business studies, drama, poetry and sport technology while he furthers his rugby career.