By Michael Crutchley

FORMER Trowbridge rugby player and schoolboy Danny Richmond achieved his life's dream on Saturday when he made his first-team debut for Northampton.

Richmond, 21, came on as a substitute against Leeds in the Tetley Bitter Cup, cheered on by his family and thousands of fans, as the team beat the visitors 73-35.

The former St Augustine's pupil and England under-21 international is now aiming to become a regular in the first team after three years as an apprentice.

His parents, Bob and Penny, of Frampton Court, Studley Green, have been reliving their son's achievements this week and hope to see him start when Northampton take on Birmingham Solihul, in the next round of the cup tomorrow.

That would mean Richmond would be playing alongside England internationals Matt Dawson and Tim Rodber.

Mr Richmond, 54, said: "He has always wanted to play the game at the highest level.

"Danny has always worked very hard and would practice whenever he could. I remember several Christmases and new years spent throwing rugby balls, whatever the weather."

Mr Richmond said the highlight of Saturday for his son was receiving his first-team tie.

"He said to me: 'I was not nervous. I have spent three years preparing for this day'," Mr Richmond said.

Danny Richmond began his sporting career learning karate and moved to rugby once he had achieved his black belt, aged 11.

He became interested in rugby and played for Trowbridge and Bath.

He qualified as a bricklayer through Trowbridge College and was taught by Trowbridge Rugby Club coach Dave Sullivan.

Mrs Richmond, 49, said: "On Saturday, three of Dave's former players at Bath were playing in the first teams at the highest level.

"That was so rewarding for him and shows what he has done."

Mr Richmond also spoke highly of Northampton's approach to preparing his son for professional rugby.

He said: "The academy there has been fantastic and he has big names such as Martin Bayfield giving him advice."

The couple's other sons, Robert, 23, and Simon, 12, also play rugby.

Mrs Richmond said: "It was lovely to watch Danny and Robert playing together for Trowbridge and it would be wonderful to see that again, especially with all three of them."