WOMENS RUGBY: THAMES RFC Ladies – the Toucanettes – are ready for the new season which starts in just a few weeks time. New captain Laura Wade said: “We won out last league and are looking forward to the NC South East East 2 league. “It’s going to be an exciting season for us because we have a new kit and can’t wait to show it off. We’re always looking for new players and anyone – of any ability – is welcome to train with us.

“We have experienced players including Kyler Turp and Danielle Harris playing along with front row Vikki Wright. Vikki’s been there, like I have, since the team started!

l Toucanettes fixtures: Hackney September 22 (Home); Hampstead October 6 (Away); Medway October 13 (A); Canterbury October 27 (A); Thurrock November 24 (H); Hampstead January 19 (H); Medway February 2 (A); Canterbury February 9 (H); Thurrock March 2(A); Hackney March 16 (A).

Thames squad: Laura Wade (c), Kyler Turp, Dani Harris, Pheobe Vaughn-Pacey, Vikki Wright, Megan Hasler, Fran Parry, Jess Chegwidden, Gemma Fitzgerald, Penny Taylor, Tara Harris, Kate Fisher and Kelly Jones.s