A RECRUITMENT drive aimed at getting more women playing rugby has kicked off in the town.

Ellesmere Port RUFC are working with local schools and the Cheshire Rugby Football Union in an effort to establish teams for girls and women.

Under current regulations, girls can play in mixed teams up to the age of 12. Beyond that, they need to play in single-sex teams – which is why Ellesmere Port RUFC are keen to begin catering for players who currently have to look elsewhere if they wish to continue playing the sport.

Mark Davies, club secretary and junior chairman of Ellesmere Port RUFC, said: “We are working with Cheshire RFU to establish ladies rugby, which is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK having grown over 90% in participation since last season.

“Initially, we are looking to establish two teams at U13s and U15s level which will cater for girls from 11 upwards. Initially this season it will revolve around training and preparing for matches which will form part of a Cheshire Ladies playing structure next season.”

The club, based at Whitby Sports and Social Club, already has the coaching and administration structure in place to manage the girls teams.

Davies added: “We are starting initially with the schools and the RFU to establish the girls teams. But we would also look at an open-age ladies team if there is anyone interested.”

The only two open-age ladies teams in the area are in Birkenhead and Chester.

As part of the drive to get more girls playing rugby in Ellesmere Port, local schools will next year be invited to enter U13 and U15 teams into a national RFU competition.

The finals will take place at the home of rugby – Twickenham – and Ellesmere Port RUFC will support any school entering by providing coaching assistance.

Women’s rugby in Ellesmere Port may be in its infancy, but the town has already produced a full England Women’s international.

Gemma Sharples, of Little Sutton, turned out for her country at the 2009 Six Nations.

For further information about women’s rugby in Ellesmere Port visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ellesmereport.