AN award-winning programme for young children could soon be available across Uttlesford thanks to a rugby-mad dad who wants to get children enjoying sport. Ruggerbugs is the brainchild of Andrew Peasey, who says the scheme could also help children to be h

AN award-winning programme for young children could soon be available across Uttlesford thanks to a rugby-mad dad who wants to get children enjoying sport.

Ruggerbugs is the brainchild of Andrew Peasey, who says the scheme could also help children to be healthier.

He said: "Rugby is fun and I believe that Ruggerbugs provides a head start into the game by not only equipping children with basic skills they can develop later at school or club level, but also creating a great sense of discipline and camaraderie.

"It also helps to get children fit and allow them to run around on a Sunday morning."

Ruggerbugs - which has been featured in top magazine Rugby World - is a fun and exciting pre-school development programme based around non-contact rugby for children aged 18 months to five years.

It already has successful groups in Harlow, Buckhurst Hill, Bishop's Stortford and Tunbridge Wells, as well as nearby Saffron Walden where some of the 300 children taught every week are throwing, catching, running and kicking their way to fun and fitness at the Lord Butler Leisure Centre.

"Our next move is into Dunmow where we hope to set a group possibly at the local leisure centre," added Mr Peasey.

"We are aiming to do that in around a month or so and would like parents to get in touch to see if their children could benefit."

If you have children who may be interested in rugby then call Andrew Peasey, who is a qualified level two coach, on 07792 304 650 or visit www.rugerbugs.co.uk

Prices are �20 for membership and �5 per session.