THE North Midlands RFU have agreed to an additional Youth level two coaching course because of overwhelming demand.

An extensive programme of summer coaching courses has already been planned but Gary Meechan, the North Midlands' acting rugby development officer, has now organised the extra course at University College Worcester over two weekends, June 22-23 and June 29-30.

The course is intended for coaches who have already obtained the Youth level one coaching award.

The costs is £30 and further details are available from Gary Meechan on 0121 4143461.

l North Midlands are also running two RFU Child Protection courses at Droitwich RFC.

The RFU have adopted strict guidelines to protect youngsters involved in mini and junior rugby from potential child abuse and recommend that each club appoint their own child protection officer.

The courses at Droitwich on June 12 and June 26 will brief volunteers interested in becoming child protection officers on the RFU's policy.

Both courses run from 7pm to 10pm and are free of charge. Details are available from the North Midlands Rugby Develop-ment Office on 0121 4143461.

l The North Midlands Coaching Society is staging a conference for mini and junior coaches at Worcester's Sixways Stadium on Sunday, July 7, starting 10am.

The cost is £20 which includes lunch. Details from Jerry O'Brien, North Midlands mini/junior co-ordinator, Gilbertstone, Plough Road, Tibberton, Worcestershire WR9.