A BRADFORD man who set up the country's first rugby club to allow the disabled to play alongside able-bodied team mates has been honoured by the Prime Minister.

Anthony Brooke has been given a Point of Light award by David Cameron in recognition of his efforts over the last few years and has become the 160th person in the country to receive the accolade.

The rugby fan was born with Cerebral Palsy, which affects his movement, and as a result was unable to get to play with the teams he approached.

So five years ago he set up his own team to allow the disabled and able bodied players to take part in full contact rugby.

After advertising for players he set up Bumble Bee Barbarians RUFC, with the support of The Rugby Football Union and Bradford and Bingley Rugby Football club.

Since then, similar clubs have been formed elsewhere in the country.

The aim of 'The Bumbles' is to build players' confidence, improve their health and wellbeing and raise their aspirations.

Since Mr Brooke, 33, started the team, it has attracted 40 registered players, with almost half of them disabled.

He is club chairman and uses the position to educate people on the positive aspects of mixed ability rugby.

Mr Brooke also helped found the European Alliance of Mixed Ability Teams and is involved in organising a Mixed Ability World Cup in 2015 which will see teams from Italy, France and Spain play against each other.

Mr Cameron said: “Anthony is an inspirational rugby fanatic that wouldn’t take no for an answer.

"His determination to start a mixed ability club has created a team that breaks down barriers, letting players of all abilities come together as equals.

“The Bumble Bee Barbarians are challenging perceptions in games across the UK and have inspired others to open their own mixed ability clubs. I’m delighted to name Anthony the UK’s 160th Point of Light.”

Mr Brooke said: "This project means the world to me; I’d never be able to play the sport I love anywhere else.”

Jill Loader, of Rugby Football Union said: "The RFU is delighted to hear that Anthony Brookes, founder of Bumble Bees Barbarians, has been recognised with a Points of Light award.

‘The Bumbles’, England’s first mixed ability team where players with learning and physical disabilities play alongside able bodied players in full contact rugby union, were the winners of the prestigious RFU President’s Awards ‘Beyond Rugby’ category in 2014, for their pioneering approach to community engagement.

The team has been inspirational in the local community and further afield, leading to the formation of three new mixed ability clubs in England and attracting attention from Europe.

Gerry Sutcliffe MP said: “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this very special award than Anthony. I’ve seen first-hand the magnificent work that the Bumble Bees do and the very exciting plans they have for the future."