FORMER England rugby star Phil Vickery was in Colchester yesterday to visit two children’s charities in the town.

Mr Vickery met staff from Autism Anglia and Stepping Stones Nursery which have both benefitted from donations from rugby charity Wooden Spoon.

Autism Anglia’s specialist school, Doucecroft, on the outskirts of Colchester, used cash raised from fundraising activities to buy a new outdoor trampoline, while Stepping Stones has developed a sensory room.

Mr Vickery, who captained England, toured both centres to see how money from the rugby charity is helping children in need.

Anna Rogers, fundraising officer at Autism Anglia said: “We are thrilled that the Wooden Spoon was able to support our trampoline project at Doucecroft and everyone was very excited about an England Rugby star coming to the school.

“The trampoline has made such a difference to the children already and we can’t wait to show it off to Phil Vickery and the funders.”

The projects were also part funded by donations from members of both Stoke by Nayland Golf Club Veterans’ Section and Colchester Rugby Club.

Carol Nice, co-ordinator of Stepping Stones said:“Our children and their parents love the new room. We are very grateful for the support from the Wooden Spoon that has enabled us to develop the sensory room. We were looking forward to the official opening so everyone involved can see it in action.”