FORMER French international forward Serge Betsen paid a visit to Southend Rugby Club to teach coaches and youngsters the art of tackling.

Betsen, who was capped 63 times by the French, spoke to coaching staff from Southend’s mini and youth teams, as well as coaches from other clubs around the area, at Warners Bridge.

He then stepped on to the field to give a coaching masterclass to awe-struck members of Southend under-12 and under-13s teams.

Kevin Harman, Southend Ruby’s head of mini and youth rugby, organised Betsen’s visit and said it was a huge success.

He said: “It was absolutely fantastic. Everyone loved it. The coaches loved the video analysis coaching he put on and the youngsters enjoyed the coaching. To see someone who you have seen so many times on television that close is amazing.”

Betsen, who stayed living in London after finishing his playing career at Saracens and now coaches at London Scottish, said: “I really enjoyed it. It is always great to come along to places like this and give something back to the rugby community after so many years of playing the game at the highest level.”

Betsen is the second star name to visit Southend this season, with ex-England prop Trevor Woodman also visiting Warners Bridge.

And Harman said he is hoping to attract more big names in the future.

“It’s something we are looking to do at least once or twice a year,” said Harman.