A RUGBY team only formed earlier this year have celebrated league title victory in their first season.

East Lothian Girls rugby team was formed in March this year, with funding from Preston Lodge RFC.

The club, which is open to girls between the ages of 12 and 18, has enjoyed a stellar debut season, with the girls taking the Scottish East Conference title.

They finished the season unbeaten, seeing off Leith, Lismore, Howe of Fife, West Lothian and the Borders to take the crown.

Craig Robertson of Preston Lodge RFC is one of the side’s coaches, along with his club-mate Roger Woods and Andy Napier, of Dunbar RFC.

Robertson told Courier Sport: “In the short time the team have been together the girls have progressed quickly, excelling in the team environment and taking their new-found skills into a competitive environment on the pitch.”

He also explained why the team was set up earlier this year.

He said: “East Lothian Girls was formed from a dire need for secondary school girls’ rugby.

“Currently girls can play mini rugby with the boys up to the end of Primary 7.

“After this the boys move on to a well-established league and cup programme, whilst the girls are left to form small unorganised groups in schools throughout the county.

“Each of the schools have enthusiastic girls wanting to learn and play but the small numbers prevent the formation of a competitive team.

“We wanted to create an environment where these girls can come together to train and play.

“Since we started the club has expanded from a few girls to well over 20 now regularly training.”

Anyone interested in taking part can attend training at Mary Murray Park in Prestonpans between 6pm and 7.30pm on Mondays.

Or to find out more information, email eastlothiangirlsrugby@gmail.com