AS Cumbrian ace Mark Wilson and the rest of the England team make their final preparations for the forthcoming Rugby Union World Cup, one local club is hoping to use the event to encourage women to take up the sport.

Windermere RUFC are holding a 'Warrior Camp' at their Dawes Meadow home which offers women a chance to experience rugby in a less daunting environment and free of charge.

The free event takes place at the ground on Longlands Road, Bowness LA23 3AS, on Wednesday, September 25 from 630pm to 8pm.

Qualified RFU coaches will be in attendance at the event, which is part of a national scheme aimed at getting more women of all shapes, sizes, ages and fitness levels to become involved in a sport where they can improve their physical fitness, enjoy the competition and build new friendships.

“The Rugby World Cup is a great example of players with a range of different skills and physical attributes working together to achieve success on the rugby pitch," said England Red Roses captain Sarah Hunter.

"This showcase of inclusivity and diversity of shapes and sizes, as well as the visible camaraderie and resilience, will hopefully encourage lots of women to pick up a rugby ball and identify how their skills can translate onto the pitch.”

The event is free, and all you need is a pair of trainers, your usual workout gear and a ‘have a go’ attitude, though you must be 17 or over.

The World Cup itself will already be in full swing by then, with England's first pool game being against Tonga this Sunday, September 22.

The following pool games are against the USA on September 26, Argentina on October 5 and France on October 12.

Kendal RUFC have advised that all are welcome at the club's Mint Bridge home where every game will be screened live.