He went on to be Tigers head coach as well as head of rugby at Oakham School and has been responsible for nurturing some of the biggest names in world rugby including Martin Johnson, Lewis Moody and current Lions players Tom Croft and Harry Ellis.

Smith will pass on some of his vast experience to the next generation of players when Guinness Premiership champions Tigers bring their renowned rugby course programme to Hinckley RFC from Monday, July 27 to Friday, July 31.

The course is for players aged between eight and 16 and will challenge them in all aspects of the game. Each player will receive a complimentary ticket to see Tigers in the new season at Welford Road. They will also receive a Tigers drinks bottle, T-shirt and rugby ball as well as a hot healthy lunch each day and a personal assessment and feedback form.

Tigers community manager Scott Clarke said: “They will also receive the knowledge they need to take their game to the next level.”

Places on the course are already selling fast and a limited number remain available. More information is available from the Tigers community team on 0116 2171 221, or by visiting www.leicestertigers.com/rugbycourses