PREMIERSHIP Rugby outfit Newcastle Falcons are supporting a project in Cumbria to increase participation in rugby union among under-represented groups.

The Falcons will provide professional-level coaching and an introduction to the 15-man code, along with promoting regular exercise and healthy living.

It is all part of Project Rugby, which is specifically aimed at Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) people, those from low socio-economic backgrounds and disabled people in the 14 to 24 age range.

“Offering opportunities for underrepresented groups to play the sport is a key goal for the RFU,” said the governing body’s rugby development director Steve Grainger.

“We want to take the game into communities where rugby isn’t widely available and demonstrate not only how much fun the game is but the skills and benefits it brings a player – confidence, teamwork, resilience, and wellbeing to name a few.”

Along with being delivered by the Falcons, the project has support from Cumbria County Council via Active Cumbria.

“This opportunity is great for our communities in Cumbria,” said Deborah Earl, cabinet member for public health and communities.

“Project Rugby has had great success in reaching out to local ethnic and disabled groups, who are traditionally under-represented in sport.

“Rugby is a much-loved sport within the county, and I am delighted to see that Newcastle Falcons and Project Rugby are reaching out to these groups.”

Anyone who would like to express an interest in the Project Rugby programme should visit www.activecumbria.org/projectrugby to register.