AN international rugby side geared up for a high-profile fixture with a training session at a Colwyn Bay school.

Rydal Penrhos welcomed France U20s on Thursday, February 20, where they were put through their paces on the school’s all-weather surface ahead of their Six Nations encounter against Wales at Stadiwm Zip World on Friday.

The French side are looking to go one better this time around after finishing second behind eventual champions Ireland in 2029, missing out on top spot by nine points after winning three and losing two of their five contests.

They began the tournament in disappointing fashion with a late 29-24 defeat at home to England with a try at the death, but the French squad bounced back well to come from behind and attain a 31-19 success over Italy.

This is not the first time a French squad has used Rydal Penrhos’ outstanding facilities in the lead-up to a fixture, with the formidable women’s squad also taking part in a coaching session at the school last year.

Sally Ann Harding, senior school head at Rydal Penrhos, said: “We were delighted to welcome the French squad for their training session, which outlines the standard of our sporting facilities here at Rydal Penrhos.

“They play a huge part in our aspiring athletes reaching their respective goals, with organisations such as Cricket Wales, the MCC Hub and local clubs also using our facility during the season.”