AS the young rugby players from Monmouth RFC Youth team prepare for the start the latest season, they know they have already scored an important try, after finding out that they will now be receiving a new, NatWest branded after match shirts.

The new shirts were supplied by the local NatWest Business Banking team based at Monmouth and forms part of the Bank's programme to support local rugby.

Last season saw a youth team at Monmouth RFC after a number of years without this link between the junior and senior sections. During the season the numbers of players has grown with many youths returning to play for the club they had once played for at junior levels.

The management and coaching team of Dave Price, Kevin Pritchard, Paul Ward and Cedric Steele are looking forward to developing the team this season. Paul said "It's fantastic that NatWest recognises how important it is to support activities like rugby for young people so that they have an outlet and focus for their energy". As the team becomes established it is hoped that many of these players will go on to play at a senior level for the club.

Steve Morgan, NatWest's Business Manager based at Monmouth, said: "I'm delighted to present Monmouth RFC Youth with their new branded shirts and wish them all the success for the season. I know how difficult it is for teams to raise funds and this sponsorship seemed an ideal way for us to assist and support grassroots rugby in the area."