The session was the first of a series of initiatives organised by Ben's Bath Combination, which is planning to expand its role in community rugby with the support of a new three-year sponsorship deal struck with local recruitment company Hutchinson Consultancy.

Last week's under 20 squad session, which was attended by 36 players nominated by their clubs, was organised to give nominated players the chance to meet the coaching team, led by Culverhay chairman Martin Lynch and Walcot's Simon Chambers under the expert guidance of Ben Hartley.

"The evening went really well and when we get together at Ben's Club for the second session on Wednesday, March 12, we should have around 45 players to work with because we've invited some of the best local under 17 players to join in as well," said Lynch.

"By the time we hold the third session at Combe Down on Wednesday, March 19 - four days before the game in Bristol - we should have honed Ben's squad down to a starting XV and 10 replacements.

"And any players not involved in the game against the Bristol Combination will get a run against Dorset & Wilts Under 20s at The Rec on Wednesday, April 23.

"This year, we want to pick the strongest side, in terms of talent and physicality, that we can muster to play against Bristol."

Meanwhile the inspirational and progressive Chairman of junior rugby in Bath, Ben Hartley enthusiastically predicted  

an exciting year ahead for the his local clubs' umbrella organisation.

He said: "Our new sponsorship deal with Hutchinson Consultancy will enable me to invest more in youth rugby and really get the local community involved in what I do. I know how much getting involved in rugby can help young people and I want to spread the message and get as many as possible to join us. My training game at Walcot last week kick-started the programme, giving players from my clubs the opportunity to come together and prepare for the challenge of the game against my Bristol Combination rivals."

Funds provided by Hutchinson Consultancy over the next three years will help to finance a community rugby website and provide kit for the combination's youth and under 20 representative squads.

Managing director Scott Hutchinson added: "The Bath Combination select team represents all the good things that team sports can contribute to a community.

"I'm really pleased to be able to be involved and I'll be rooting for the under 20 select side when they take on the Bristol team."