ENGLAND head coach Eddie Jones says the key to retaining youngsters at a grassroots level is simple – give them a reason to play the game.

Jones was speaking during the annual Wayne Barnes XV charity match at Lydney on Sunday, where he was managing the Premiership referee’s team from the Regentsholme dugout.

“I think you have to get the kids to play rugby and enjoy it. Training’s got to be enjoyable at every level they’ve got to see a reason why they play the game.

“There are lots of different things for kids to do these days so to play rugby is has got to be enjoyable.”

The back-to-back Six Nations winner was on his first ever visit to the Forest of Dean and praised the area and the event.

“It’s great fun, there’s a great crowd here and it’s a good crack,” he said.

“It’s a great reason to be here today and a great cause and the boys are certainly giving it a fair go.

“There doesn’t seem to be a lot of defending going on so it’s sure to be a high scoring game!

“These games are about running and using the ball and it’s all about putting on a show.

“I haven’t been here before but it’s a beautiful area, just coming in was very picturesque with some beautiful buildings and it’s a fantastic place to play rugby.”

Jones also backed man of the moment Barnes to pick up the man of the match award, saying ’he’s just got to hang in there!’, before heaping praise upon Bream man Liam Brady.