LEXUS Oxford is backing the youngsters of Wheatley rugby team for glory in the Lexus Junior Rugby festival.

The centre is sponsoring the club's youth teams in the new nationwide tournament which is designed to encourage sporting achievement among young players.

Centre principal Julian Butler said: "It is a great opportunity for us to help the talent of tomorrow. Supporting these youngsters' ambitions fits in perfectly with Lexus's own guiding brand vision of the pursuit of perfection." Wheatley is fielding five teams in the opening regional round of the festival which is being held at Derby RFC. They will include under-13, under-14, under-15, under-16 and under-17 squads playing 12-a-side games. Success as a winner, or top runner-up, at this stage will qualify them for the national finals to be held in April next year. Lexus Oxford has also offered family and friends of the players a free 24-hour test drive in the Lexus of their choice.

David Heslop, chairman of Wheatley RFC, said: "Their sponsorship has helped us to develop junior rugby teams and build links with local schools in the community. Lexus are to be applauded for their support of grassroots community rugby and the development of the junior game."