Suffolk’s veteran rugby players are being encouraged to get on the ball and scrum down at Woodbridge Rugby Club.

The Hatchley Barn-based club is holding a veterans playing night on February 26 (6.45pm) and a second on March 26.

The sessions are open to all players, not just Woodbridge’s and should the idea take off, it could become a regular fixture on the local rugby calendar.

Organiser and chairman of Woodbridge, Rob Simpson, explained the club devised the idea after the Suffolk Vets Floodlit League was not renewed last season.

“A few years ago there used to be lots of friendly matches between vets teams, before a league system was introduced,” he said.

“We had quite a strong contingent of vets at Woodbridge and I think we won the league three out of four seasons.

“As a result, I think quite a lot of players thought ‘I can’t be bothered anymore’.”

The club is expecting to boast at least 20 players for the sessions but Simpson said it was definitely the case of, the more, the merrier.

“Just because a player turns 35 and they may not be being selected as much anymore, or can’t make games due to different commitments, does not mean they still don’t have the appetite to play,” said Simpson.

“We are looking for vets from all clubs to come and join in. Shirts will be available and hopefully we will get enough people so we can have a match.

“We have set the two dates initially because they are easy to remember, February 26 and March 26 and we will open the bar, while we will probably provide some hot-dogs.

“If it is successful, then it is something we would like to do on a monthly basis.

“Thirty-five is the cut-off age, although we don’t mind a couple of 34-year-olds coming along.”

The idea is being supported by Suffolk RFU and the RFU, which will donate £100 towards the cost of running the event, should it go ahead.

To confirm your attendance, text Rob Simpson 24 hours before on 07904 584502.