THE Church Stretton Samurai are hoping to carve up their rugby rivals - starting with Bishops Castle later this month, writes ADAM KNIGHT.

The newly-formed club have snapped up Church Stretton School coach Martyn Longhurst to be their maiden director of rugby.

Ben Speake is the captain of the club, which is the newest rugby club in the North Midlands and already has 40 members and 30 supporters.

Church Stretton will play their home matches at the school ground behind the tennis courts on Shrewsbury Road.

Club president Barrie Oxtoby said: “We asked a number of local people and nearby clubs why there wasn’t a club in Church Stretton.

“No-one could come up with a good answer.

“It’s a hotspot for sport but there is no outlet for rugby players once they finish school. We are already talking about boys and girls teams.

“The Samurai must play 12 friendly fixtures to qualify to enter the RFU leagues in 2014.”

The problem, says Oxtoby, is fitting in all the games.

“We’ve had a lot of support from local clubs, reflected in how many fixtures we’ve been offered – we have at least 20 clubs wanting to play us,” he said.

Church Stretton's first-ever match is against Bishops Castle on August 20.

The Samurai travel to Oswestry the following week for their maiden away fixture.

And Stretton will do so in their new kit – in the town colours of green and gold, and emblazoned with the town’s emblem on the badge.

The squad will be training on Thursday nights throughout August, and despite the club’s close links with former schoolboys, Oxtoby said there has been a range of ages attending training.

For more information about joining the Samurai, contact Barrie Oxtoby on 07966 102495.