PRESEASON efforts saw the team from Bannockburn Rugby Club help out at the Battle of Bannockburn Experience.

Members of the club battled torrential rain as players and volunteers grafted hard to support centre staff with heavy lifting and manual labour as part of improvement works.

Team captain Calum Bruce was retracing his ancestral footsteps as he trod the same soil as his namesake Robert did nearly 700 years ago.

Those helping out on the day were then treated to the immersive experience at the centre, many remarking on the quality of the exhibits and knowledge of staff.

Jimmy Samuel, head coach, said: “Today was about giving something back to the community.

“We take pride in Bannockburn just as we take pride in our club.

“It wasn’t an easy ask with the terrible weather, but the lads stuck in and that sort of mental resilience will be vital in the season ahead.

“It’s a small gesture on our part and hopefully supports the centre in their preparations for the school and public visits next term.”

The preseason campaign continues with an open day on Saturday, August 3, followed by a friendly against Falkirk 3rd XV on Saturday, August 17.