A RUGBY club is exploring the possibility of establishing two new teams for girls and women.

Barnard Castle RUFC hope to set up a team for girls aged 12 upwards and a ladies team with a view to playing against other sides in the North East.

Paul Davis, from the club, said: “This has been brought about due to the success of a satellite club project, an amalgamation of Durham County, the Rugby Football Union, the local club and local schools to enhance rugby in the area.

“Last season the increase in the number of girls taking part in the sport, and their success in county competitions, led to the notion of starting a side at the club.”

A meeting will be held in the clubhouse on Birch Road, Barnard Castle, on Thursday, June 30 at 7.15pm to gauge the interest.

Anyone interested is invited to attend to share their views and learn about the club.

The club is also looking to recruit volunteers for the venture, anyone interested can attend the meeting or email paul.davis@bcrufc.org or TamaraTaylor@rfu.com

The club already has 12 sides, ranging from under sevens to the zimmers veteran side, and Mr Davis said: “Given the talent and number of girls that want to play rugby in the area it would be a shame to waste this opportunity.”