A BID to increase the profile of rugby in Largs has seen Ardrossan Accies move their training squads to Inverclyde Sports Centre, providing more opportunity for local youngsters to get involved in the sport.

The long running rugby club is keen to broaden its appeal in North Ayrshire and have moved their training to the world class facilities, which have already been used by the Scotland Rugby Union and Glasgow Warriors squads.

Fairlie man Andrew McPake, who is on the committee at Ardrossan Accies, says it is a golden opportunity for children from Wemyss Bay to West Kilbride to get involved.

Rugby training - give it a try!Rugby training - give it a try! (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

He said: "We have invested money in all our teams coming to Largs to train at the Weir 3G centre and the astroturf pitch.

"It is all part of a concerted effort in Largs and the surrounding area to come along and take up the sport, and broaden Ardrossan Accies' catchment area.

Taking the opportunity: Training at Inverclyde Sports Centre on Wednesday nightsTaking the opportunity: Training at Inverclyde Sports Centre on Wednesday nights (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

"The Accies family is trying to expand and grow. We are punching quite high above our weight at senior level in the league, so we want to increase junior opportunities going forward.

"We are trying to get children involved in the senior game, become mascots and ball boys and grow the club as a family atmosphere. 

"It is a tremendous sport as my son Luke has found out and he has made friends for life."

On the run: Rugby fun at Inverclyde Sports Centre in LargsOn the run: Rugby fun at Inverclyde Sports Centre in Largs (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

Training for the junior section takes place from 7-8pm and the youth and ladies section from 8-9pm on Wednesdays. 

Follow Ardrossan Accies on Facebook or contact Andrew on 07805 899907 for more details about how to get involved.

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