THE district will be represented at a forthcoming European touch rugby tournament in Portugal.

Tynedale RFC Ladies team players Rhian Fabricius and Janette Evans were selected for the European Select Women’s 35-plus touch team, known as the Eurostars, at the European Touch Senior Cup, which will take place later this month.

The club said Janette is unable to take up the honour, which means Rhian will fly the flag for the district.

The selection came about after an impressive campaign for Tynedale in the Thornton Hickey Ladies’ Winter League, last season.

No fewer than seven Tynedale players went on to represent the North East Raiders’ over 35 women’s team, in five 40-minute matches over two days against the South East, Midlands and North West.

It was a steep learning curve in both defence and attack. The Raiders played well in all their matches against tough competition from teams which boasted many England players.

Alongside Rhian and Janette, Tynedale players Kirsteen Longstaff, Liz Flynn, Carol Orrick, Carly Armstrong, and Annie Lees also turned out for the Raiders.

Tynedale RFC Ladies have reported a growing interest in the sport, with several new members joining for the new season.

A number of people in the side had no prior experience in rugby, or even team sports in some cases.

The attitude at the club, however, is one of open arms regardless of the level of experience.

It is no surprise that tag rugby is a fast-growing sport in the area, with the sport providing an accessible route into team sports for people of all ages and sporting ability. Tynedale have shown they can also compete to a high standard, while also welcoming players of all abilities.