I’m Dr Tom Perris, a consultant in anaesthetics and critical care at Gloucestershire Hospitals.

I’ve worked in sports medicine for both Gloucester Rugby and during the World Cup and it seemed logical to continue when I became involved in the Old Pats.

I have two sons who joined the Tag Trojans aged four and I started coaching at under nine level. They currently play in the U15s and U13s. Inevitably, I’ve been a first aider for our team too.

Having thoroughly enjoyed myself coaching and refereeing the lads, I was keen, now that i can see the end of junior rugby approaching, to remain involved in the club. The role of Rugby Safe officer was offered to me by the chairman and i didn’t need much persuading.

My role is to ensure that every match and training session is covered by a qualified first aid provider and to organise the required qualifications. I also have a role in acquiring first aid supplies, injury reporting, risk assessment and planning for emergency situations which may arise.

I’m not the safe guarding officer but our roles do have areas of overlap.