MINI rugby players in Milford Haven have proved they can handle bags as well as balls, after raising a record-breaking amount packing bags at their local Tesco store.

The pint-sized sports players recently raised more than £1,200 towards their new kit by helping shoppers at the tills.

Their total was then topped up to a whopping £2,000, thanks to fundraising events organised by Tesco Milford Haven’s community champion Debbie Mills and her colleagues.

Having smashed their original target of £500, the team has now been able to buy new shirts, featuring the Tesco logo, and essentials like socks and shorts.

“They had no decent kit and it was such as shame, it meant they lacked confidence when they walked out onto the pitch,” said Debbie.

After hearing why the youngsters were raising money, one generous shopper went and withdrew £100 in cash, and handed it over the help the cause.

“The kindness of people has been amazing,” said Minis section coach Karl Rozblat, who said he would love to personally thank the anonymous donor, and invite her to the team’s first game of the season.

“The kit we had before is more than ten years old; some of it was literally being held together by tape!

“Compared with the other teams, we just didn’t look as good.

“Kits aren’t cheap, and not all parents can afford them, but now we’re all on a level playing field.”

Thrilled to be able to support the team, Debbie added: “Anything we set out to do, the people of Milford Haven support us.

“We are so grateful to our community and our customers.

“We couldn’t do it without them.”

Tesco will also be donating half-time oranges for all the team’s home games this season.

“It’s just a little extra, every little helps!” said Debbie.