MERSEA Island Rugby Club is looking to the future and launching its own youth section with a special fun day.

Mersea Junior Rugby, for boys and girls between five to 12 years old (School Years Reception to 6), promises a fun, enjoyable environment to learn this exciting sport.

Junior chairman Steve Daniels said: “The key element is fun and enjoyment.

“And we will also embrace the sport’s fundamental principles of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship.

“It will be an excellent way to introduce rugby to local children and to add another sport which can be played by young people on the island.

“This has been set up with the emphasis on every child having fun in a safe environment.”

The club have already planned a jam-packed family fun day for potential members.

On Sunday, July 19, families are invited to Essex Outdoors for a barbecue and games, and an opportunity to meet the coaching team and find out more about the club.

Training sessions will start on September 20 at the Glebe Playing Field, Mersea.

Mersea Junior Rugby is also on the lookout for volunteers and sponsors who can help in the club’s formative weeks.

Daniels said: “Weeks of work have gone in to it and it’s very much a team effort.

“The volunteers’ professionalism, commitment and enthusiasm are exceptional.

“We are also very much looking for more volunteers on and off the field.

“We are also looking for sponsorship to help boost our efforts.”

If you are interested in joining, volunteering or providing sponsorship, contact Steve Daniels on 07730 50 9214 or email Steve.daniels@solutiondriven.co.uk.

Alternatively, check out www.merseajuniorrugby.co.uk for more information.