Sports clubs and businesses have joined forces for a new partnership aimed at creating a surge in Keighley’s youth rugby scene.

Keighley Albion RFC and Keighley Cougars RLFC have teamed up with High Technology Lighting and Link Telecom to promote junior rugby in the town.

The initiative is kick-started through a link-up bet-ween the Albion under-eights and under-nines sides with the Cougar Cubs.

However, all local boys and girls between the ages of seven and 18 who are interested in either league or union are encouraged to get involved.

An open invitation is ex-tended for the first training session indoors at Marley Stadium on Saturday (9.30am-10.30am).

Cougars mascot Freddie will be present, along with Albion coaches, Cougars Foundation manager Dean Muir and Cougars players.

The project is the brainchild of Keighley Albion, who launched their junior section two years ago with just four youngsters.

The club now have 20 juniors and a vision to breathe new life into youth rugby right across the area.

Albion’s first team and junior coach Dean Brookes said: “Interest among the region’s children in rugby is waning – it’s a real uphill battle to get young people involved these days.

“We’re trying to promote amateur rugby at all junior and open-age levels, with a major emphasis on developing the junior game. Some youngsters may go on to play professionally but one of the main thrusts is to allow those that don’t to continue to enjoy amateur rugby.”

Cougars have produced 25,000 leaflets promoting the initiative, while Albion juniors will be given free entry to Cougars’ home league games.

Full details about training and the project are available from Brookes on 07802- 328390 or John Normington on 07725-230368.