BASINGSTOKE RFC are throwing open their doors for a great day of rugby at their Down Grange home on Saturday.

As well as their pre-season game against Hackney (kick-off 2pm), the club are holding a pitch up and play day from 12.30pm for anyone of any age.

Chairman of playing, Steve Parker, said: “We want to make this a great day for all the family and get loads of people down to watch the rugby as well as play if they want to.

“For anyone wants to get back into the game or youngsters who want to try it out, there will be touch rugby going on for all ages, so come down and see what this great club has to offer.

“We have a thriving junior section and of course a number of adults teams, so we can cater for everyone.”

The main rugby event will see Basingstoke lock horns with London North West Three outfit Hackney, a side that new ‘Stoke head coach Gareth Hatherley-Hurford is very familiar with, having been a coach there for the past three years.

They will give Hatherley-Hurford’s new charges an excellent work out as they look to continue their build-up to their new London Two South West campaign.

Hatherley-Hurford is looking forward to welcoming his old team and said: “It is nice to have Hackney coming here and I am really looking forward to the game. I have been impressed with what I have seen so far from the players at this club.”

“Training has seen a good turn-out of around 40 to 50 players, which is very pleasing, and there is a great atmosphere around the club.”

‘Stoke had their first run-out last weekend and put up a good battling display in a 22-5 defeat to Trojans.

Hatherley-Hurford was unconcerned by the scoreline and more than happy with what he saw.

“We defended really well for long periods of time and this was a big plus we can take from the game,” he said.

“I am now looking forward to the visit of Hackney and seeing what we can do against them.

“Everything is going in the right direction, which is the really positive thing for me.”