Teenager Ben Sporle was among 15 children with serious heart conditions chosen for a guard of honour at the Bath v Worcester Warriors fixture.

The 13-year-old, of Barbel Close, Calne, represented Bristol Royal United Hospital for Children at the match where he met Stuart Hooper, captain of Bath Rugby.

Ben, who has severe learning difficulties, ADHD and limited speech, was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy in 2011, a condition that means the heart cannot pump blood efficiently.

He spent two-and-a-half months receiving specialist care at the Bristol hospital before having a transplant at Great Ormond Street Hospital last year.

Mum Kerry Sporle said: “Seeing all the children with flags on the pitch as the players walked out was a particularly special moment.

“Without the staff at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children some of those children wouldn’t be here to have shared that moment.

“We’re looking to become season ticket holders next year now. Ben truly enjoyed meeting the players.”