Promising prop Danny Herriott will move a step closer to his dream of becoming a professional rugby player when he begins a two-year scholarship with Guinness Premiership side Northampton Saints in September.

The 15-year-old pupil at Castle Community School in Deal, will move to Northampton and undertake sixth-form studies at Moulton College while attempting to impress the coaches at Franklin’s Gardens in a bid to win a professional contract.

He said: “I’m excited about joining Saints. After going there and meeting the coaching staff, including former British Lions prop Tom Smith, who is my favourite player, it’s made me want to turn professional even more.”

Herriott began playing rugby aged seven and has played for Deal and Betteshanger and Ashford. He now plys his trade at Blackheath – whose senior side play in National 2.

He has also played for Kent’s under-14, 15 and 16 teams and has had a trial with Saracens.

Herriott added: “Northampton will help me be the best player I can be. They will improve my all-round game.”