DEVELOPING Scotland's future rugby stars cannot start early enough, according to a former internationalist who runs training sessions for tots in the Wee County.

James Craig was capped four times for Scotland and took Rugbytots over in the region last year, delivering sessions for youngsters between the ages of two and seven.

He told the Advertiser: “We teach them how to run, pass, catch in a fun-filled, energetic way.”

James believes it is important to start building skills early on and said: “Other countries do it; Australia and New Zealand, they have their little ones running about at that age as well.

“So, I think it is important to get them started as soon as possible. You'll find that a lot of the kids that come in and can't catch and throw are able to so a few weeks later – it can be quite a satisfying job.”

When James was young, the earliest opportunity he had was mini-rugby, which started at U8 and so he is happy to fill the gap in training for the very young ones.

He added: “If you are starting at a younger age you get the appetite for it, which carries you forward. I didn't really know about rugby until I was taken down to the local club to play, but these boys and girls are getting a taste of it now, which should feed their appetite for it later in life.”

Across five venues in the region, Rugbytots sees over 100 children each week with sessions starting in Clacks about four months ago.

Local children have the chance to get moving and learn the basics at Lornshill Academy on Saturday mornings when James delivers his weekly training to around 20 kids in various age groups.

Encouraging parents to consider taking their children along, he said: “Their child will be getting exercise, they'll be running about. It's active and they will socialise with children their own age.

“We also offer a taster session to try it out the first time they come down, see if they like it.”

For more information visit rugbytots.co.uk or email James at james.c@rugbytots.co.uk to get in touch.