MERSEA Island Rugby Club launches its new junior section this weekend.

The first training session is being held at the Glebe, West Mersea, on Sunday.

Chairman of the junior section, Steve Daniels, said: “Our coaches and volunteers are very much looking forward to the season.

“We are asking parents and children to be at the Glebe at 9.45am to ensure a prompt 10am start.

“The session will last for approximately one hour.

“Parking at the Glebe is limited, so those who live close by are advised to walk or cycle there if they can.”

The sessions will be carried out on the existing rugby pitch, which is adjacent to the Wellhouse Green development.

For the first few sessions parents and children are asked to meet outside the rugby changing rooms, next to the basketball court, which will be used for toilet facilities only.

Children should wear appropriate training kit such as shorts or tracksuit bottoms, T-shirt and jumper, trainers (football boots for when the pitch gets wet), full water bottle, waterproof clothing if raining and £2 subs.

Daniels added: “Please don’t hesitate to ask our coaches any questions on the day.

“They will go through with you any additional clothing/kit your child may need for the future such as gum shields, boots etc.

“We ask that parents remain with their child for the duration of the session.

“After the initial three weeks we will be asking people to make a commitment and enrol in the club.

“Fees will be £25 per child up to the Christmas break, then an additional £25 until the end of the season in April.

“For families with more than two children enrolled, the third child will be free.

“At each session refreshments will be available for adults to purchase and we will be offering the children hot food after each session, the price of which is included in the £2 subs.”