Retired rugby players are rolling back the years and lacing up their boots to get back in the game.

A new non-contact rugby initiative has been launched at Pershore RFC on Mill Lane and the first session, on Wednesday September 22, saw seven retired players, with a combined age of more than 500 years, take part.

Richard George, 67, is Pershore Rugby’s chairman and even he has been getting involved.

He said: “There is a tremendous atmosphere amongst the players – some really good banter.

“And this initiative, bringing older players back to enjoy a run-around together and have a coffee in the clubhouse afterwards, is all part of our aim at Pershore Rugby to be as inclusive and welcoming as possible.”

Bill Hurley, 81, is a retired rugby player and has loved getting back on the field.

He said: “I have kept active, walking, but it is great to be able run again. I’ve used muscles I’d forgotten I had.”

Meanwhile David James, 78, said: “As I got older it became more difficult to keep up with the younger touch players and, much as I tried, I couldn’t touch them or score a try.

“But I wasn’t ready to retire and I didn’t want to play walking touch either, I wanted to play at my pace.

“So, this Third Age Touch at Pershore has come to my rescue and is just perfect. Whatever your age, Pershore’s the place now to play touch.”

This week's training session was led by Matthew Cowdrey, the adapted sports coach from the Warriors Community Foundation.

Third Age Touch is open to men and women, with training sessions every Wednesday at 11am.

The first three sessions are free and after that it is only £5 a month.

For more information on Third Age Touch contact David James, 01386462944, or for information on Ladies Touch, Mixed Touch or Junior Touch contact Fizz Bewley on 07791 546541.