Walking Touch aims for flying start at Raeburn Place

A group of Edinburgh rugby clubs have launched a new walking touch rugby programme for over-50s at the historic Raeburn Place.

The BATs Rugby community – Broughton Rugby Club, Edinburgh Accies and Trinity Accies – have set up the initiative to give individuals, who may support their club but not play, a chance to get active.

Walking touch rugby is a non-running, non-contact version of rugby union for men and women and this new initiative is designed to provide a fun and safe way to get some exercise and enjoy the many benefits of team sport.

BATs Development staff, Iain Berthinussen and Callum Black, are leading the scheme and have high hopes for their new initiative.

Iain Berthinussen, BATs’ Development Officer, said: “Until now BATs has focused exclusively on youth rugby and while this is an incredibly important part of our work, we realise being active has enormous health benefits no matter what your age.

Being involved in team sports, in particular, can reduce social isolation and create a real sense of purpose and belonging for people.

“We are therefore really pleased to be able to launch this initiative for an older generation.”

The clubs hope to expand on the programme with friendlies with other clubs who are also interested in establishing their own walking touch teams.

Previous rugby experience is not required and the sessions will be led by professional coaches.

The hour-long sessions cost two pounds per person and take place on Monday mornings at 10am from the middle of April. Tea and coffee will be available in the clubhouse after the sessions to give players a chance to socialise.

The programme will initially run weekly until Monday 3 September with the aim of extending to indoor fortnightly sessions in the winter months.

There is no need to book and, other than trainers, no specialist equipment is required.

For more information please contact Iain Berthinussenat [email protected].