Prince seeks rugby conversions

Prince Harry pulls the ear of Jason Robinson as they take a coaching session for youngsters at Twickenham

The 29-year-old took part in training with schoolchildren beside former England star Jason Robinson, who challenged the prince, saying: “I’ll be looking to see what you’ve got.

Harry dodged the potential tackle by saying: “I think I’m a bit past it already.”

The royal is patron of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) All Schools Programme, a project to help boost participation in state schools.

Harry, who is often seen cheering England on from the sidelines, put some of his passing, kicking and tackling skills to the test on Twickenham’s famous turf.

World Cup winner Robinson, 39, said: “It’s just fantastic to see him out here with the kids. He’s dripping with sweat. He’s put everything into this, because he is passionate about the game.”

Robinson joked with Prince Harry that he could make it into the England squad for the forthcoming World Cup in 2015.

“We’re looking for a winger or a full-back,” he said.

The famous winger, from Leeds, also gave the fourth-in-line to the throne a pair of his boots.

The prince wants to see more pupils at state schools playing rugby.