WALES rugby coach Mike Ruddock praised fans after his side clinched the Grand Slam for the first time in 27 years.

And talks were due to get under way today about giving our Grand Slam heroes an open-top bus parade to celebrate their achievement and show off the RBS trophy.

Mr Ruddock, 45, reacted to the Grand Slam triumph and the 32-20 win over Ireland by saying: "The Welsh supporters have been brilliant.

"The groundswell of support has been amazing. Running out at Murrayfield was like running out in Cardiff."

And he added: "I certainly think there is more to come from this team."

Wales captain Michael Owen, who plays for Newport Gwent Dragons, said: "They (the fans) were all clapping on the drive to the ground and we knew then it was going to be a special day.

"They were incredible all around the castle and in St Mary Street and the way they blasted the anthem out was really good.

"And then, after the game, when we had the trophy, the stadium was still full. The fans were fantastic."

It emerged yesterday that plans are being made for an open-top bus victory tour.

A spokesman for the National Assembly said last night: "We are sure that the First Minister, along with the rest of Wales, would love to celebrate this Grand Slam.

"We expect discussions on this matter will begin first thing tomorrow.

"The First Minister has had tentative discussions with the WRU about an open-top bus parade but he didn't want to tempt providence before the match yesterday.

"We will now be racing ahead with this idea at the earliest opportunity when arrangements can be finalised."

At present it is not known where the victory parade would take place.

Mr Ruddock's family in Blaina spoke of their pride in the Wales coach.

Sister Colleen Davies said: "I imagine Mike is feeling 20 feet tall!

"I spoke to him before the match and he was very confident. We're all so proud of him."

His other sister Kath Ruddock, who had tears in her eyes as the final whistle sounded, added: "I never go to the game. I find it too tense.

"I was just staring blankly at the screen.

"I just can't believe they have won. Mike must be ecstatic. I only wish our dad Jim was still alive to see it today. He was a massive rugby fan and would have been so proud."

And Mr Ruddock's niece, Louise Davies added: "I am absolutely chuffed to bits!"