WHEATLEY’S Oliver Hobdell has been nominated for the club volunteer of the year accolade at the Crabbie’s National Rugby Awards.

The 23-year-old plays a key role both on and off the pitch for the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier side.

Hobdell took on the Wheatley captaincy in 2013 during a challenging period for the club.

And despite having knee ligament surgery last season, he has helped teams prepare for matchdays, organised events and coached the junior sides.

The awards take place at Twickenham on August 29.

l Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer passionately supports rugby at all levels.

The brand returns as the Headline Sponsor for the 2018 National Rugby Awards after partnering with the event for the first time in 2016.

HENLEY Hawks have launched an U20 development programme.

The National League 2 South club believe it will help strengthen the transition between junior and senior rugby.

Open to players aged 17-20, the programme, led by U20 head coach Adam Hurst, begins on September 5 from 6.15pm, with training on the all weather pitch at Dry Leas between 7-8pm.

WOMEN are being encouraged to take up the sport in sessions at Banbury RUFC and Oxford RFC next month.

The camps are a part of England Rugby’s Inner Warrior campaign, which aims to increase female participation in rugby.

The Banbury session at Bodicote Park takes place on September 5 between 6.30-9pm.

Oxford host their event at North Hinksey Sports Park on September 12 from 6.45-8.45pm.

ALFIE Barbeary featured for England in the U18 International Series.

The Bloxham School pupil, who is in the Wasps Academy, started at prop in a 41-22 defeat to hosts South Africa Schools.

England led 17-12 at the break, but conceded four tries in the second half.