WHITCHURCH rugby club has launched a new session for players of all abilities.

The social touch rugby session was launched earlier this month and is aimed potential rugby players who don't want to pressure of first team competition, or are unable to play in the club's first, second or third teams.

The sessions are run by second team coach Max Pridmore, and he says the sessions are aimed at giving people a causal introduction to the world of rugby.

"It's to get people involved with rugby," said Max. "It's quite good, we all meet up, chuck a rugby ball around for an hour or so and then go for drinks afterwards.

"The first session had around 14 people and the second session had around 24, so numbers have increased, although members of the second and third sides were involved last time."

Max also says the sessions could potentially help grow the second and third teams, giving people a chance to play rugby, without having to commit fully.

"The main thing behind it is to grow the second and third teams," added Max. "It's about getting people down to see if they want to play on a Saturday to see if they like it without the pressure.

"Most of the people that come down do play rugby, or follow rugby. But it's accessible for all ages and anyone that wants to get involved."

The social sessions are typically held alongside the regular team's training sessions and are open to men and women over 15.

The group meet on Thursday nights from 7.15pm to 8.30pm at the rugby club in Edgeley Road.

Whitchurch Rugby Club's first team meanwhile will be back in action this weekend away to Ludlow.

Last time the two clubs played it was a close affair, with Whitchurch narrowly beating Ludlow by a single point.