THE Forest is in the grip of rugby fever as Newent and Drybrook rugby clubs prepare for the biggest games in their histories this Saturday.

Both clubs are off to Twickenham for national finals – and a large chunk of the local population is going with them.

Drybrook face Yorkshire side Selby in the final of the RFU Senior Vase (1pm).

Before that, Newent take on another Yorkshire outfit, Baildon, in the final of the RFU Junior Vase (11am).

Drybrook chairman Paul Mason has been associated with the Squirrels for 39 years and cannot remember any game captivating their supporters' interest like this one.

He said: "We will be taking 11 buses of supporters from the club alone, including a double decker.

"On top of that, the likes of Hale & Co, Harrow Hill Football Club and the White Horse pub are organising their own coaches for supporters – and the Large family, who are connected to the club, have booked a coach just for all their family.

"I knew there would be a lot of interest, but it's exceeded my expectations. To say there's a buzz around the club is an understatement."

For the full story read The Forester.