IF you thought rugby was just a sport for men, then think again.

Taking part in women’s rugby has doubled in the past 10 years and the England women’s team won the World Cup last autumn.

Keen to attract even more women to the game, rugby clubs in Devon are offering free "Pitch up and Play" sessions.

Open to women of all abilities, the sessions include skills, fitness and match play – with an introduction to tackling.

The key focus of Pitch up and Play is encouraging women into the sport with inclusive, enjoyable and informative sessions, whether they’re brand new to rugby, a sofa supporter or a returning player.

The sessions will build confidence and contact, fitness and femininity whilst providing a playing field for women and girls to discover what makes them strong.

Players will also be able to select a "mood band" on arrival which helps them to shape the session depending on whether they are just looking fun, fancy some competition or want to focus on fitness.

Local "Pitch up and Play" sessions will be available at Crediton Rugby Football Club from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesday, August 5 and at North Tawton Rugby Club from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesday, August 12.

Following the North Tawton event there will be a Question and Answer session and a free barbecue.

Wayne Reed, North Devon Community Rugby Coach, said: “England Rugby are hoping to get 10,000 more women into the sport by 2017, so we’ve launched these friendly Pitch up and Play sessions and are calling upon all the local ladies, regardless of age, ability or previous experience.

"These sessions are completely free and provide a fantastic introduction to newcomers, so bring along a friend, family member or colleague to give Rugby a try!”

"Pitch up and Play" sessions run throughout the year.

For more information, visit: www.englandrugby.com/rugbywomen .