GIRL power is picking up at the Peebles Piranhas.

But coaches are still on the hunt for a few more potential centres, full-backs and wingers.

More than 160 youngsters enjoy the benefits of mini rugby every Sunday morning.

Although encouraging numbers of girls have taken to the pitch in recent weeks, they are still outnumbered heavily by the boys - something organisers hope to rectify with free taster sessions.

Piranhas head coach Mark Thomson said: "Rugby is a great way for girls and boys to have fun, learn new skills like teamwork and make lifelong friends.

"We are delighted to be offering free taster sessions for every girl and boy who wants to have a go at rugby.

"Aligned to the four core values of Peebles Rugby, every child should have the opportunity to develop, enjoy, compete and achieve in a positive, supported environment."

Many young girls already enjoy the weekly coaching sessions - including primary one pupils Lindsey Boyd, Sadie Fleming, Jess MacRae and Annie Moore.

And several slightly older girls, such as Nancy Thomson, who is in primary three, and primary five pupil Alice Williams, have also been playing in recent weeks.

Former Scotland international, Kate McMillan, is backing the Piranhas' call for more girls to try the sport.

She said: "Rugby is a great game for both girls and boys.

"Playing rugby has given me some fantastic experiences and has enabled me to forge great friendships.

"I’ve had the chance to travel around the world to places including Australia, Singapore and closer to home in Europe.

"It is such as shame that many girls never even get the chance to pick up a rugby ball. I didn't start playing until I was 18 but wish that I had been able to play earlier.

"I hope that these free tasters sessions will encourage more girls to give rugby a try."

The free taster sessions are open to any girl - or boy - who would like to try rugby.

P1 and P2 pupils are currently indoors at the High School from 9am to 10am.

The P3 to P7 squads are outdoors at Haylodge from 10am to 11.15am.

For more information email peeblespiranhas@gmail.com