DARLINGTON MOWDEN PARK pair Pete Homan and Rob Conquest have been called up to the England Counties squad for forthcoming internationals against Scotland and France.

Wing Homan and second row Conquest have also been named in the 23-man squad for a summer tour to Canada.

Conquest said: “I’m chuffed with the news, I think it will be a great experience and obviously it’s great to do it with a team-mate in Pete.

“I’d like to especially thank the club with the training and help they have provided me since I joined and I hope I can do the club and supporters proud.”

Homan added: “I’m over the moon with the call up - a special thanks must go to the coaches, Danny Brown and John Newton, for giving me the chance to come back home and play for Mowden Park. It’s a really big honour and I’m looking forward to it”

Mowden Park head coach Newton said: “The call ups come on the back of consistent performances throughout the season and are well deserved.

“Pete Homan is a very powerful and quick destructive runner and his work ethic on and off the pitch is outstanding.

“Credit also to Rob Conquest who we’ve seen a massive improvement from in his all-round play and leading the line from second row. He’s also turned out to be a prolific try scorer this year.”

The England Counties squad, made up of players from 13 different clubs, will begin their season on Friday, February 26, against a Scotland Club XV in Galashiels.

They will then play a home fixture against France Federale on Friday, March 11, at Blackheath.