MALVERN Rugby Club are facing the challenge of the highest league they have played in by commencing pre-season training on Tuesday (July 3).

The sessions, also on Thursdays, start at 7pm, and are open to existing members and any other players who wish to play for the county's top junior side.

Director of rugby David Robins said: "We have attained our goal of reaching the top division in what used to be the amateur game and find ourselves, as a totally amateur club, up against a majority of sides who are paying substantial sums to players.

"However, we are not just looking to recruit at first XV level, the lower, more social sides are just as important to us so we avoid the trap of losing the old air of camaraderie as so many clubs have done since the advent of professionalism.

"These teams are a breeding ground for up and coming talent, and where ex-first and second XV players can settle down to a slightly less demanding game and pass on their wide experience to the younger members.

"This infrastructure is of paramount importance, especially with the challenges we now face at the top level."