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BBC Radio Bristol Special: Jimmy Peters - The first black England rugby international

Sport: Rugby Union

Jimmy Peters

Jimmy Peters - The first black England rugby international

BBC Radio Bristol - BBC Radio Bristol Special, Jimmy Peters - The first black England rugby international

John Inverdale brings you the story of the first black man to play rugby for England.

John Inverdale presents the story of Jimmy Peters, the first black man to play rugby for England in 1906. It would be 80 years until the next black England rugby international.

John Inverdale brings you the story of Jimmy Peters, the first black man to play rugby for England back in 1906. Jimmy's story is incredible. 

His father was a circus showman and was killed by his lion. Jimmy joined the circus only to be left tied to a wagon and was picked up by the richest family in Britain. 

His life changed at an orphanage in London before reuniting with his family aged 18 in Bristol. There he started playing rugby and was called "Darkie" by everyone. 

He went on to play five times for England. It would be 80 years until the next black England rugby international played for his country.

Produced by Tom Ryan.

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