BIG lad Jake Webster-Dunn is destined for big things in the game after being signed up by giants London Irish.

The 6ft 2ins Thanet Wanderers prop, 15, attracted the attention of the London Irish scouts at a trial day and they've moved swiftly to sign him up.

Ambitious Jake, who lives in Westgate-on-Sea, has harboured dreams of hitting the rugby big-time since joining Wanderers at just eight and now he's a step closer to making them a reality.

Proud mum Emma Webster-Dunn said: "Rugby is Jake's life. He lives and breathes the sport.

"All he's ever wanted to do is play rugby but it's so competitive and tough to do.

"Jake couldn't get into the Kent team because of the school he goes to so getting noticed was always really tough.

"So he went up for a trial at London Irish and they liked what they saw and signed him up.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for him and the family are absolutely thrilled." But rugby stardom is nothing new for the family.

The Ellington and Hereson lad is following in his uncle Adrian's footsteps in making waves in the game.

Emma explained: "He's very much following the lead of his uncle.

"He was a prop too and he played for England Under 19s, Harlequins and Surrey. They talk about the game a lot."

Jake has already started training at Irish but when he's not with them he maintains his fitness by carrying out a routine devised by uncle Adrian.

He's not yet old enough to lift weights in the gym but it hasn't stopped him becoming a force on the pitch, as coach Mike Pond explains.

He said: "Jake is so big and strong and he's worked really hard to get where he is.

"His strength is his scrummaging and he's dominated a couple of county props this year.

"He joined aged eight and he's turned into a massive player for us. We'll certainly miss him.

"He's totally committed to rugby and his grandad Chris always said he'd be a top-class player.

"With the move to London Irish it shows he's on the road to becoming one.

"Being down in Thanet it's hard for our players to get seen but it shows what can be achieved with hard work.

"He was a little overweight last year but he's worked tremendously on getting fit and he's reaped the rewards."

Jake's first competitive game for Irish is next month but once this season is over he's off to Australia.

He flies out with grandad Chris to train with Sydney side Eastern Suburbs in May.

Jake would like to thank coaches Pond and Ron Connell for all their hard work over the years.