A school of rugby developing the sport's next crop of talent is to be created in South Ayrshire.
Ayr Academy will host the ambitious project — part of a tie up between Ayr Rugby Club and the QTS Group.
The national rail contractor has come on board with the Millbrae club to create the 'QTS School of Rugby'.
They will initially fund the facility for one year.
Pupils aged 12-15 at the school will have the opportunity to join three contact sessions per week, which will include strengthening and conditioning, nutritional support and other workshops.
Stuart Fenwick, director of Rugby at Ayr Rugby Club, said: “We’re thrilled to launch the QTS School of Rugby, which will give so many young people across the area the chance to learn new skills and benefit from coaching, mentoring and valuable life experiences such as watching live rugby games.
"Rugby isn’t just a sport but a culture; the values and discipline that can be instilled in young people through playing the game is unparalleled.
"It is a key tool for engaging young people, leading to improved attitude, confidence and mental and social agility, as well as community safety.
"We’re so grateful for the financial support from QTS, which gives us the opportunity to build on our impact of working with young people across Ayrshire. We can’t wait to see what the year brings."
Alan McLeish, managing director at QTS Group, added: “We’re so pleased to embark on a new partnership with a much-loved club that makes such a huge difference, not only to the professional rugby scene, but in its local community and across South Ayrshire.
"At QTS Group, we are committed to investing in young people within our communities, and particularly supporting grassroots activity.
"Although we know that we can’t reach every young person across our region, we are hopeful that the QTS School of Rugby can change the pathway for just one or two, which will make our work and our investment worthwhile.
"It has been a pleasure working with Stuart and Glen and we look forward to building our relationship with the club over the next twelve months, and hopefully further into the future."
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
