MORTE than a hundred youngsters are being given expert coaching at the Gazette and Herald's Rugby Skills Week.

The week, hosted by Chippenham Rugby Club, is in its ninth year. It is being run by coach Andy Edwards .

The youngsters will be learning about rugby, developing their individual skills as well as learning unit skills. Edwards said: "They are having fun and learning skills leading up to a game on Friday."

To keep the youngsters' interest they are also playing games such as rugby Olympics and other team games involving a rugby ball. Edwards said: "The kids are really enjoying it. They want more and more and more. Also this helps with their fitness training by having fun."

They are also learning about the rough side of rugby by being taught how to tackle properly and how to do rucks and mauls.

Today they will be visited by players from Bath Rugby Club, who will be passing on tips and signing autographs.

The children taking part are aged between eight and 15. Edwards says that there is some talented youngster present this year. He said: "There is a bit of talent here and the kids are really committed and dedicated to improving their skills.

"Some of these children go on to the Bath academy. This of course is good for the local rugby clubs as some of these young people develop into good players.''