A NEW 3G rugby pitch at Lenzie Academy is being hailed as a game changer by pupils.

Six years ago, the school became one of Scotland’s 17 Schools of Rugby in partnership with Scottish Rugby and Lenzie Rugby Club.

And now, more than 120 pupils – including many from other local schools – benefit from coaching sessions delivered by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust.

Brian Paterson, headteacher at the school, said: “This artificial pitch replaces our grass pitch and is a major boost to the continued development of Lenzie Academy as a School of Rugby.

“The artificial surface and floodlighting mean we can deliver high quality training sessions all year round, with no disruption over the winter.

“We have a very enthusiastic group of players at all ages and stages. The future of rugby is in good hands.”

Vaughan Moody, joint council leader, added: “The pitch looks fabulous and the young people are really excited to use it and be able to train and play on a state-of-the-art surface.”