Minchinhampton RFC are to launch a girl's section in September, and a taster session is being held this weekend.

RFU rules allow mixed rugby only up to the age of 13, which often leads to girls leaving the sport.

This new section will be open to girls aged nine and above, with girls 11 and older invited to the taster session at 11.30am on Saturday.

The free session is part of England Rugby’s Allianz Inner Warrior programme, a series of social fitness camps for women all over the country.

The scheme is being backed by former England Women’s captain Katy Daley-McLean

“Allianz Inner Warrior is a fantastic campaign – not just for people who’ve played rugby but for a new person who might have an interest for the game," she said.

“It’s the benefits of rugby all rolled into one – the option to meet new people, go out and socialise and be active. For me, they’re all the things I’ve loved about being part of the game.

“They’re a great opportunity to run around, get fit, play a different game and discover the social side of rugby – as well as all its physical benefits.”

“In the future, this is where you’ll find the talent and next stars of the game – in camps like this, where people start going down with their friends and picking up an appetite for rugby."

Visit EnglandRugby.com/innerwarrior for more information about the scheme.