MORE than 200 Wyre Forest youngsters will be taking part in a tag rugby tournament in Kidderminster on Wednesday in a bid to win a place in the national final.

Year Six pupils from 25 schools will be involved in the competition, which takes place at the Kidderminster Carolians RFC ground in Marlpool Lane.

The winners and runners up will go on to compete in the force finals in Droitwich in May, and then have the chance to progress to regional competitions and ultimately the Tag 2 Twickenham national final to be held at Rugby School in Warwickshire – the birthplace of the game – in July.

Wednesday’s event, for Year six pupils, is an opportunity for the police to promote the Tackle Safety programme which educates youngsters in personal safety.

Youth Engagement Officer PC Neil Sharpe, who is organising the event with Police Community Support Officer Simon Gallagher, said: “Tag rugby is huge fun, helps children develop a lifelong love of exercise, and teaches them about teamwork and socialising.

“It is also an opportunity for the police to interact with young people in an informal setting, and promote personal safety, preventing children from falling victim to crime or bullying, and helping to boost their confidence and self esteem.

“It also helps prevent anti-social behaviour and improve community relations.”

PCSO Gallagher added: “We would like to thank the Carolians and the Co-Op supermarket in Franche Road for their support. The rugby club are once again letting us use their ground and Co-Op have kindly donated refreshments for the children taking part.”

West Mercia has been developing its tag rugby initiative since 2002 in partnership with the Rugby Football Union, and Child Victims of Crime, the national police children’s charity, with local