RUGBY: This week, after a lot of hard work by the coaches, committee, parents, volunteers and players, the junior club of Lowestoft and Yarmouth RFC have been informed that they have achieved Charter Mark Status and will be awarded their Seal of Approval.

RUGBY: This week, after a lot of hard work by the coaches, committee, parents, volunteers and players, the junior club of Lowestoft and Yarmouth RFC have been informed that they have achieved Charter Mark Status and will be awarded their Seal of Approval.

The RFU introduced the mini and youth seal of approval accreditation programme in 2002 as a method of examining, maintaining and improving the provision of rugby in the mini and youth section of a rugby club.

Building upon current good practice, the accreditation aims to recognise the effort and achievement of those clubs that reach, maintain and improve on the required standard of a club committed to the provision of quality rugby union experiences for young players.

The seal of approval and the Sport England Clubmark accreditation scheme are based upon a three-year rolling award system in which a club will be assessed on its continuing ability to provide a safe and effective club environment.

A club will qualify in the first year by the completion of the assessment file and the writing of a three-year development plan. By implementing the development plan, with an annual review, a club will continue to be accredited and ensure continuous improvement in provision for the players at the club.

The award will be indicative of the quality of provision a club offers, and its commitment to the continued development and growth of rugby. A club will receive certification to confirm accreditation, both from the RFU and Sport England.

This is a great achievement for the club and the local community.

Young people who are interested in playing rugby five to 12 for girls and five to 17 for boys (non-contact five to nine years) should attend the signing on day 11am on September 5.

This will be a fun day with barbecue and bouncy castles.

See the website www.lowestoftandyarmouthrfc.com or contact Jerry Stone, chair of the junior club, on jerrystone7@btinternet.com or 0797 145 7050.

The club is always looking to recruit volunteers to assist with coaching, managing or administrative help. No experience is needed as full training will be provided.