MINCHINHAMPTON RFC have won a training session with Gloucester RFC as part of a prestigious competition run by QBE, the business insurance specialist.

Twelve amateur clubs around the country have won sessions with their local Aviva Premiership teams and Minchinhampton were lucky enough to win the South West area promotion.

The Minch Ist XV will receive a bespoke training session specifically designed by Gloucester coaches – as well as taking home £1,000 worth of training kit.

The judging panel, which consisted of members of the media, Premiership Rugby and QBE, were extremely impressed by Minchinhampton RFC’s development as a club over recent years.

It now boasts more than 200 junior players and a fast-improving senior set-up.

The club were also rewarded for their efforts to raise sufficient funds to enable them to move into their own ground from June this year.

John-Paul Corry, Head of Fundraising and Sponsorship for Minchinhampton RFC, said: “We are so proud to win this fantastic prize. The team have got a real appetite for the sport and this is a great reward for the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes.

“It will undoubtedly benefit our players and coaches to train with professionals from Gloucester.”

Minch spokesman Simon Whittemore added: “Work on the new ground is progressing well.

“The location is splendid – right opposite Gatcombe – and a huge amount of work has been undertaken already, involving many volunteers, experts and RFU contractors.”

Chris Bevan, Commercial Manager of QBE’s Bristol operation, said: “We are delighted that Minchinhampton RFC has won. Their entry was a great example of how sport helps inspire the community, and we hope that the contribution of a specialist training session and new equipment from QBE will help the club to develop and introduce more people to the game.”