Brilliant Bedford Blues became the first ever side to retain the National Colts Cup after putting Nuneaton to the sword at Franklin's Gardens on Bank Holiday Monday.

First half tries from Scottish U19 centre James Knight and skipper Shane Allen, along with two penalties courtesy of fly-half Luke Radley, put Blues 16-6 up at the break.

Another Radley penalty and a try from number eight Tom Armes early in the second period, converted by Radley, gave them a 20-point lead and effectively sealed the cup.

Nuneaton rallied late on and scored two unconverted tries of their own, but a fourth Bedford try, courtesy of replacement David Kingsbury in added time, capped a fine win.

The triumph marked a successful end to academy boss Denis Ormesher's eight-year stay at Goldington Road and, reflecting on the success afterwards, he said: "They all did very well having worked hard all season and it was good to see them get their just rewards.

"We produced some lovely rugby, especially in the first half and I was also pleased with our defensive performance."

Ormesher also reserved praise for try scorer Knight, who was playing his last ever Colts match, having been promoted to the first team squad for next season, following in the footsteps of last year's graduates Will Chudley and Peter Clarke.

Ormesher added: "I'm obviously delighted that James will be taking the step up.

"That's the whole point of our academy. We are trying to develop guys for the first team squad of the future.

"James had worked very hard and now he's been given a chance to follow in the footsteps of both Will and Peter."