CALLINGTON’S Charlotte Tait braved the chilly winds of North Yorkshire last month to act as the VIP match day mascot for an international rugby match.

On a very chilly Saturday in February, Charlotte Tait stood proudly singing the national anthem in Ilkley, North Yorkshire, as the mascot for England Deaf Rugby, who won convincingly against neighbours Wales Deaf Rugby.

It was a role that she had no idea she was fulfilling until a few days before the match, when she was invited onto the pitch at Twickenham Stadium and handed an invitation by England international player George Ford.

Charlotte, a student at Callington Community College, was given special permission by the England Deaf Rugby team as a 12th birthday surprise in recognition of her passion for rugby — her sideline contribution from spectator, camera person, water girl and ball girl is proof that supporting roles in sport are as important as the players themselves.

Charlotte, who is profoundly deaf herself, said: ‘I was really shocked when I found out that I was going to the match day mascot — I had no idea until I was taken on to the pitch at Twickenham surrounded by international players.

‘In Ilkley I was quite nervous but proud to sing the national anthem alongside the England Deaf Rugby team. They made me feel welcome and then they let me hold the trophy at the end.

‘I would like to say thank you to England Deaf Rugby for giving me the opportunity.’