YOUNG rugby stars of the future were put through their paces as Mersea Island launched their new junior section.

The event at Essex Outdoors Activity Centre on Sunday was a fun introduction to Mersea Island Rugby Juniors.

It enabled families to register with the club, ahead of when training starts in September.

Mersea Island Rugby Juniors chairman, Steve Daniels, said: “We had a fantastic time where we had the chance to speak to a lot of families about the club, answering their questions and explaining more about what the training sessions will focus on.

“More than 70 children signed up over the course of the day, which is a brilliant start to the new teams.

“We look forward to seeing our new members and their families when training starts in a couple of months”.

Youngsters were challenged with a bouncy castle obstacle course, including a gladiator-style inflatable arena complete with pugil sticks.

Families also tucked into a free barbecue lunch provided by the club, before the grand finale of the day, where children were soaked by Essex Outdoors staff in a large-scale water fight.

Families that were not able to attend the event can still register their interest to join, volunteer or sponsor the Mersea Island Rugby Juniors by contacting Steve Daniels on Steve.Daniels@solutiondriven.co.uk.

Training sessions will begin on September 20 at the Glebe Playing Field, West Mersea.

Parents of potential members are encouraged to check out the club’s website for more information at www.merseajuniorrugby.co.uk