22 YOUNG people from Salisbury and Trowbridge were given a very important role at a recent Bath Rugby match.

The children were given a unique pitch-side experience as they formed a guard of honour as the players took to The Recreation Ground in front of thousands of fans for the match against Bedford Blues on February 2.

The experience came about thanks to a partnership between Wiltshire Council and the Bath Rugby Foundation, as the children take part in the council’s weekly Doorstep Sports Club sessions.

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After the event, one of the children’s parents said: “Thank you for organising such an incredible experience!

“As a family of rugby fans, our son absolutely loved it and is now eager to join us at games and explore more opportunities in rugby, which is amazing!”

The Doorstep Sports Club initiative has been supported by Wiltshire Council for over a decade and was formed in partnership with the national charity StreetGames.

It provides free, accessible opportunities for young people to take part in regular physical activity within their communities.

The children performing a guard of honour Picture: Wiltshire Council

The term-time clubs support young people aged eight and over, with an emphasis on inclusion, and encourages those over 16 to take on leadership roles during the sessions.

The programme currently operates in Bemerton Heath in Salisbury, Studley Green in Trowbridge and Queens in Chippenham.

Due to the growing demand for the sessions, plans are being developed to expand the sessions across Wiltshire.

The event also marked the start of a new partnership between the council and the Bath Rugby Foundation.

This collaboration has introduced experienced coaches to Doorstep Sports Club sessions, equipping participants with new skills, positive role models and pathways into sporting opportunities.

Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, cabinet member for public health, communities, leisure and libraries, said: “We are proud to support the Doorstep Sports Club Initiative and to be able to take young people to events such as these.

“The children enjoyed a unique experience with memories that they can cherish for a long time. Our aim is to empower them to build their own lasting, positive relationships with sport and physical activity.

“By working in partnership with Bath Rugby Foundation we hope to help young people develop essential life skills, build resilience, and instill confidence in them through meaningful sporting opportunities – a key business plan priority for us as a council.

“Thank you to all the partners who make these vital sessions possible: Bath Rugby Foundation, District Sports, and Active Trowbridge.

“Their commitment ensures that sport remains accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all.

“A special thank you also goes to the dedicated volunteers at Rise:61, Doorway, and Amber Foundation, whose passion and commitment enrich every session.

“We look forward to growing the Doorstep sessions across Wiltshire over the coming year.”

Alex Randall, community and operations manager at Bath Rugby Foundation, said: “The partnership between Bath Rugby Foundation and Wiltshire Council plays a crucial role in providing Doorstep Clubs across Wiltshire, offering free, accessible sports activities for children and young people.

“These clubs give young people the opportunity to engage in physical activity, build confidence, and develop vital social skills in a safe and supportive environment.

“By working together, Bath Rugby Foundation and Wiltshire Council help address the barriers to participation, promoting health, well-being, and a sense of community among local youth. This collaboration is especially valuable in reaching those who might otherwise face challenges accessing structured sports programmes.

“On February 2, the partnership celebrated its young people by inviting these children to Bath Rugby vs. Bedford Blues, for a matchday activation experience, which created magical moments for them.”

For more information on Doorstep Sports Clubs or to get involved, click here or contact community sport and well-being officer, Lauren Park, at lauren.park@wiltshire.gov.uk.