The Bedfordshire Blue Raiders American Football team are back in action this month. A series of practice sessions start this Sunday at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium. The sessions will start at 10.45am and end at 2pm and will continue on Nove

The Bedfordshire Blue Raiders American Football team are back in action this month.

A series of practice sessions start this Sunday at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium.

The sessions will start at 10.45am and end at 2pm and will continue on November 26, December 10 and December 17.

The first practice sessions, in October, were designed to introduce rookie players to the sport and to see if there was enough interest to get the team started.

The success of the sessions means that the players are now ready to start learning the skills required to play in competitive games.

Blue Raiders have arranged their first game, against the Northants Nightmare, on March 25 next year.

Head coach Chris Wallis said: "That may seem a long way off but in reality it isn't. Not only do we need to knuckle down and work hard at practice but we also need to raise the funds to purchase shoulder pads, helmets and the team uniform.

"It's a big challenge, but this game is great motivation. We've already developed a fantastic team spirit and this gives us all a goal to work towards.

"With the dedication the players have shown so far, I know we can be ready in time."

Wallis added: "We still need to recruit more players though. American Football is a tough, physical sport and it's essential that we have a big squad."

Anybody interested in playing for the Blue Raiders, or any other aspect of American Football, call Dave Pankhurst on 07883 377094 or email head coach Chris Wallis on headcoach@bedfordshireblueraiders.co.uk