VIRGIN Atlantic recently partnered with England Deaf Ruby Union (EDRU) to support the men’s and women’s team on their tour of South Africa.

The airline supported the team’s tour and provided British Sign Language (BSL) trained cabin crew onboard the team's flights as part of the airline’s commitment to making travel inclusive for all.

Content documenting the EDRU’s journey to South Africa as they enjoy the Virgin Atlantic onboard experience was recently released ahead of International Week of Deaf People.

The content celebrates the achievements of the incredible team members and their eight months of hard work and dedication. It can be viewed here.

Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operations Officer at Virgin Atlantic, said: "We’re delighted to partner with English Deaf Rugby Union and support their tour of South Africa.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel and take on the world, and we are committed to making our flights accessible and inclusive for all our customers. We are proud of our British Sign Language trained cabin crew, who provided a warm and personal service to the teams on tour."

Gloria Mills, Chairperson, England Deaf Rugby Union, said: "We’re very grateful to Virgin Atlantic for their generous support and for making our travel experience so comfortable and enjoyable.

“Our teams are excited to represent England and compete against some of the best deaf rugby teams in the world. We hope that our partnership with Virgin Atlantic will also help to raise awareness and recognition of deaf rugby and inspire more deaf and hard of hearing people to get involved in the sport and experience the incredible travel opportunities that can come with it."

Sophie Lyon from Zeal Monachorum was a member of the women’s team which visited South Africa.