A Jamaican Police Constable and rugby league international is getting a taste for life in Yorkshire as part of a three month visit to the UK.

Clayon Lumsden, a 33-year-old who hails from Kingston, has been visiting schools across the city with Leeds Rhinos mascot Ronnie the Rhino to spread the anti knife crime message and encourage healthy lifestyles amongst youngsters. 

His trip has been made possible with support from West Yorkshire Police, the Leeds Rugby Foundation and the Rugby Football League with Leeds-based print firm Resource Print Solutions (RPS) providing additional sponsorship until his departure in mid-September.

Clayon, who has played for the Jamaican RL team for 3 years and is also a national champion at both discus and javelin, commented: “This is a real learning curve for me and a fantastic experience to see life in the UK although I’m still getting used to the weather and the food! It can get so cold over here!

“I’ll take everything I’ve learnt back to Jamaica and it will hopefully improve the way we work in tackling crime amongst young people and encouraging participation in sports such as rugby league,” added Clayon who plays for the Constabulary Knights, part of a six team RL competition..

Phil Thompson, MD of RPS who already sponsor the British Police Rugby League team, was only too pleased to support Clayton’s visit to the UK: “This is a great initiative that benefits everyone and is helping to spread positive messages to local children.

“RPS has always been interested in lending a hand to progressive community ventures and we’re delighted to help Clayon in getting around the area a bit more easily,” added Phil.