World Cup winner Alphonsi part of a record attempt at Luton

The 31-year-old Saracens flanker was part of the side that beat Canada 21-9 back in 2014 before retiring from the game and has become a Rugby World Cup 2015 Ambassador.

She was visiting Newlands Road as the RFU in partnership with Team Beds & Luton and Northamptonshire Sport kicked-off the first day of Festival of Rugby 2015.

Alphonsi was joined by 437 children from 29 schools across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire plus young sports leaders, teachers, parents and event staff.

They were trying to beat the current record of 336 players and although the number involved on the day exceeds the current record, the attempt will need to be verified over the coming weeks before it can be officially confirmed.

Alphonsi said: “It has been an incredible start to the Festival of Rugby.

“It’s been great to see so many schoolchildren getting involved in the sport with the support of their local team, especially in what is a predominantly football city.

“If the excitement evident in this event is anything to go by, it’s set to be a fantastic summer of rugby and a great foundation from which to build a strong legacy for the game.”

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