One of the region's big success stories in recent times has been the rise and rise of Southend Rugby Club.

Having just clinched the London One title, and with it their third successive promotion -- this time to the National League -- the club is now seeking backing to help them capitalise on their ascendancy.

"We're in National League Three for the first time since 1995 and that's the highest level an Essex-based team has ever attained," said director of coaching Kevin Harman.

"Now we're back up there we want to maintain and build on our recent success, and to do that we need a major sponsor or benefactor."

A hat-trick of promotions means Southend are enjoying their most productive spell since league rugby was formed in the late 1980s, so any potential backers would certainly be investing in a club on the up.

Not bad for a team built almost entirely of local boys.

A huge majority of the squad comes from in and around Southend and has an average age of 25, so the nucleus will hopefully stick together for years.

Harman and head coach Paddy Dunston, a former Wasps star, have undoubted talent at their disposal.

James Wagstaff, a local PE teacher with King John School has represented Wales Students; Kevin Bates has played professionally for Harlequins and also in the National Provincial Championship in New Zealand; Chris Green has played at Leicester within their professional squad.

And the team is led by Westcliff High School for Boys product James Shearing, who is one of the most respected captains in the Eastern Counties.

If you would like to find out more about backing Southend RFC call Kevin Harman on 07753 613955 or e-mail him for details at kevin.harman@southendrugby.com.

Published Friday, April 18, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo