A RUGBY class to encourage youngsters in West Devon —Nippers Rugby — is a sports group for children aged from two to six.

David Briggs, a teacher at Kelly College Prep School in Tavistock and experienced rugby player and coach, said: 'I was keen for my son to experience the finer qualities I feel rugby has over some other sports.

'It was from this that I decided to establish Nippers Rugby.'

The fun and energetic classes are structured to develop motor skills, co-ordination, social skills and confidence through gentle, non-contact rugby based activities.

It is a joint venture for David and his wife, Emma, who works in children and families services.

She said: 'We are really excited about the interest already shown in Nippers Rugby and looking forward to expanding our area so that as many children as possible can participate.

'We are not a child care provision and active involvement from  parents and carers in our classes is encouraged, though not essential. It is through structured play together that we feel children will benefit most from Nippers Rugby.'

Nippers Rugby held its first taster session at Lamerton last week. The session was a great success with all children booking for the next term. Further taster sessions are being held in Bere Alston (two to four years and four to six years) and it is looking at suitable venues to expand classes throughout the West Devon and East Cornwall area.

Classes are £4.95 per 45 minute session with discounts for termly bookings and no registration fee. For more information, visit http://www.nippersrigby.co.uk">www.nippersrigby.co.uk or find Nippers Rugby on Facebook.