Leicester Tigers fans met senior players Telusa Veainu, Matt Smith, Gaston Cortes and Charlie Thacker at a special player appearance at Leicester’s Highcross Shopping Centre.

The event, organised in collaboration with club partner The Nottingham Building Society, welcomed rugby fans ahead of the club’s two huge upcoming derby day fixtures at Welford Road against Wasps (March 22, 3.00pm) and Northampton Saints (March 22, 7.45pm).

Supporters had the chance to meet the players, sign autographs and pose for photos as well as the chance to win free tickets to Tigers matches against Saints and Exeter (April 6, 4.30pm).

There was something for everyone as shoppers had the chance to win prizes with Welford’s Wheel, as well as a colouring competition for youngsters and our World Cup kicking challenge video game. 

The Nottingham, who sponsor the Robin Hood Stand at Welford Road Stadium, were on stand in the Lower Mall towards the John Lewis entrance offering fantastic prizes and giveaways for all the family, including a free prize draw to win a signed Tigers shirt and ball and Robin Hood money boxes.

The Nottingham also support the running of the popular Tag Rugby festivals for primary schools across Leicestershire each season.

Suzanne Bowery, assistant partnerships manager for The Nottingham, said: “It’s the third year we’ve put on this event together and as always, it’s been a pleasure to meet some of the fans, give away some prizes and introduce some of them to The Tigers themselves.”

"We’re committed to supporting the communities where we are based so with a number of The Nottingham and Harrison Murray branches across Leicestershire, we’re proud to be the official Building Society of the Leicester Tigers."

Match tickets to Tigers home matches can be purchased via the Tigers ticket office or online at the link below.