THE Forest can now boast one of the biggest girls rugby sections in the South West, with two former players selected to play for England Women against France and returning this week.

Drybrook RFC Girls Section now has more than 30 girls aged from nine to 16 regularly training and playing matches as well as attracting new players from Ross, Cinderford and Berry Hill.

Most recently 23 girls from the Drybrook Section went on tour to Liddington, Swindon enjoying a weekend of activities including raft building and zip wires. 

The section has also had major success in recent County Trials with nine girls selected to represent Gloucestershire at U15s and two selected at U18s and two girls selected to play for Somerset U15s and one girl at U18s.

Two ex Drybrook Girls players, Ceri Large and Mo Hunt, were in France last week playing for England women and will be returning this week.

"It's down to hard work," says Mandy Meredith, Drybrook RFC Girls section manager. "Three or four years ago we weren't getting the numbers, but now we're one of the biggest sections in the South West and girls are making new friendships across the Forest. What we do need are more under 13s and more under 18s."

Drybrook RFC Girls train on Wednesdays 6.30pm to 8pm and Sundays 10.30 am - 12 noon at Drybrook Rugby Club. There are teams for U13s, U15s and U18s.

If you're inspired or want to join in get in touch with Mandy Meredith on 07500 664994.