PLAYERS from Romanian rugby side Bucharest Oaks helped Kidderminster Carolians RFC to officially unveil their new training lights at Marlpool Lane on Friday.

They were officially opened by Romanian rugby star Georgy Balta, who suffered a career ending spinal injury in 2005, and was watched by his countrymen and members of KCs.

The new lights represent the latest in a long line of ground developments for the club and will dramatically increase the number of players who will be able to train during mid-week.

It means the club now have lights on one-and-a-half of their pitches, which will be used by junior and senior players alike.

President Neil Sollom said: “The lights will be of benefit to all of our players.

“We have doubled the space that they can train on during the week.

“It’s another step forward in the development of Marlpool Lane. The ground is one of the best at this level in the county.

“Georgy and his brother were really lovely lads and I think they were overwhelmed by the occasion.

“They were very emotional when they were asked to open the floodlights and it was a lovely moment at the club.”

Georgy, accompanied by his brother Florin and members and officials of the Bucharest Oaks team, cut the ribbon to declare the new training facilities open.

KCs have strong ties with the Romanian side because of the efforts of chairman Brian Garrett, who was rewarded when he was presented with Bucharest Oaks shirt and tie.

For the second season running Bucharest trained at KCs in preparation for their European Challenge Cup game against Worcester Warriors, which they lost at Sixways 38-19.

Anyone wanting to join KCs are welcome to attend training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7pm onwards at the Marlpool Lane.

For more information ring the club on 01562 740043 or go to www.kcrfc.org.uk