Rafter, who won 17 caps for England and captained Gloucestershire to two successive County Championships in 1982 and 1983 said: “This is a marvellous achievement for Cotham Park and the award will have a positive impact on both the club and the local community. The club has a rich history, yet has clearly made provisions to look after its future.

“Rugby is about discipline, team spirit and developing friendships that endure qualities that young people can learn at an early stage and carry through life. By achieving the accreditation, Cotham Park has set an example for other clubs to follow.”

In recent years the number of club members at Cotham Park has risen significantly and last year’s Schools Rugby Tag Festival, hosted by the club in partnership with Ashton Park Sports College as part of an outreach Junior Development Programme, saw playing numbers in the junior division increase considerably. The event was part of Cotham Park’s ongoing development plan aimed at reaching out to the local community.

Club Secretary Chris Meechan, who spearheaded the campaign towards achieving the Seal of Approval, outlined the importance of the award.

He said: “Working towards the Seal of Approval has helped us to recognise and organise our good practices and policies and develop new ones where necessary. 

“Achieving this accreditation has given the Junior Section a solid foundation to take this part of the club forward, encouraging and developing future generations of rugby players.”     

Cotham Park Chairman Karl Davis paid tribute to the volunteers who ensure the ongoing development of the club.

He said: “The Seal of Approval is a major step forward for Cotham Park RFC. It means that any prospective new members are guaranteed joining a club which has a supply of fully qualified coaches, an acknowledged childcare policy and a three year plan for development, all of which have the approval of the RFU.

“This has been a fantastic effort by Chris and the members of the Junior Committee. They have put in a huge amount of time to achieve this accreditation, and it highlights what can be accomplished with endeavour and dedication.

“We have a flourishing junior section at the club and Sunday mornings are a hive of activity. We are now starting to see the players who played in the junior ranks at the club push for first and second team places. It is vital that we maintain this system to ensure the continuing development of the club and safeguard its future.”

Cotham Park's Mini and Junior section is attended by more than 60 youngsters every Sunday.

Ends….