The initial plan was that Cartha Queens Park RFC would send down an U18 side but this was changed late on Friday when they had to withdraw. This leaves a straight double header at U18 level for MarrRugby v Ayr RFC.

The U18 matches will be preceded by a minute of silence as a mark of respect and reflection following the recent death of Rob Drummond, an Ayr RFC U18 player

Stuart Fenwick, Ayr RFC's development officer has sent the following statement - Ayr RFC U18s return to action at Fullarton on Saturday with two squad fixtures v Marr. It speaks volumes for both clubs when they can field 2 squads at U18 level. This is testament to the massive amount of work put in by coaches and volunteers across both youth sections.

After a tough few weeks for the Ayr U18s squad after the loss of one of our players, we thank Marr for accommodating the fixture at short notice and for their gesture in donating the gate to SAMH. We look forward to two competitive fixtures, which we are sure will be a great advert for youth rugby in Ayrshire. So get along to Fullarton as we kick start a day of action packed rugby!

Marr Rugby will be holding a collection during all of the home matches on Saturday and the proceeds will be donated to SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health). This charity does important work and provides a great deal of help, especially for young people.

Saturday's matches and kick-off times:

U18s (Kick-off at 12.00pm)

Top pitch - Marr Rugby v Ayr RFC
Bottom pitch – Marr Rugby v Ayr RFC

The youth rugby matches are a great warm up for the senior rugby action when it's another batch of Ayrshire derbies.

Ayr RFC 1st and 2nd XV's visit Fullarton while Marr Rugby's 3rd XV is on the road for their first pre-season fixture when they travel to play Cummnock RFC 2nd XV (kick-off 3pm)

Senior rugby

Marr Rugby 2nd XV v Ayr RFC 2nd XV (2pm kick-off)
Marr Rugby 1st XV v Ayr RFC 1st XV (3.30pm kick-off)
Cumnock RFC 2nd XV v Marr Rugby 3rd XV (3pm kick-off)

IMPORTANT - PARKING AT FULLARTON – We expect a very busy day and ask that people coming up to watch try to avoid bringing cars or at least car share. Players and supporters should park on the grass and hard standing areas behind the pitches. ACCESS TO THE MAIN CLUB CAR PARK WILL BE RESTRICTED TO PEOPLE DROPPING OFF PASSENGERS AND PARKING ONLY FOR BLUE BADGE HOLDERS, MATCH and CLUB OFFICIALS and COACHES. WE ALSO REQUIRE TO KEEP SPACE FOR EMERGENCY ACCESS.

Please arrive early and park safely and sensibly.

REFRESHMENTS – We will be offering a selection of hot food and drinks from the club’s kitchen. The bar will provide a range of cold refreshments.

On Saturday Marr Rugby will be fielding more than 100 players…the future continues to be bright!