Stirling County RFC have completed major improvements to their pitches ahead of the forthcoming season.

The Club have invested almost �60,000 in the installation of new drainage systems to three of their pitches, with a contribution of �30,000 from sportscotland towards the cost.

Starting last summer, the drainage systems were implemented by local firm Greentech Sportsturf, under the guidance of John Souter Consultancy Ltd.

County President Kevin Robertson said: "The drainage improvement works to the rugby pitches represents a significant investment by the Club in it's infrastructure at Bridgehaugh Park.

"This shall provide much better playing surfaces throughout the year, particularly in the wetter winter months.

"We are extremely grateful to sportscotland for their financial assistance, and I would also like to thank our Club Members who generously gave donations towards the cost of this most worthwhile project".

Kevin added: "County successfully operate a large number of junior and senior rugby teams, totalling over 450 players, who train and play rugby at Bridgehaugh Park on a weekly basis.

"Over recent years, the lack of surface water drainage to the playing pitches and training areas, coupled with the high level of usage has had a major impact.

"This has unfortunately resulted in many rugby matches, tournaments and training sessions being adversely affected or cancelled due to the wet conditions and poor state of the pitches.

"The drainage improvements should result in more rugby being played by all our teams at all levels on higher quality pitches." The Club intend to complete the drainage of the training pitch and other areas, as a final phase of pitch improvements next year.

Meanwhile, County have stepped up their pre-season preparations in readiness for the forthcoming RBS Premiership and British & Irish Cup campaigns.

On Friday the 2nd of August at 6pm, the team will visit Old Anniesland to defend the David Williams Trophy against Glasgow Hawks and two other guest teams.