Tom Croft has given his backing to a new initiative to support community rugby in England.

SSE has been named as National Community Partner of the RFU in a three-year deal which sees the energy company support community rugby and take on the title sponsorship of the National and Divisional Leagues.

Now SSE are asking local rugby clubs to have their say on the resources and facilities that will benefit them in their What Clubs Need online survey at www.SSERugby.com

The results will be used to roll out a season-long programme of rewards, resources and opportunities for rugby clubs.

Tigers, England and British Lions flanker Croft, an SSE ambassador, said: “Having grown up in the English club rugby system, I know what a difference any additional support and investment can make to local rugby clubs – especially the smaller clubs in the lower Leagues.

“It’s great to see SSE taking an interest in the future of the game by investing where it is needed the most. That will make all the difference.”