Royals better off than most

The bad weather has meant that Windsor have not played since December 12, but at least they have been able to train regularly, unlike many teams.

It is something that Windsor coach Paul Britton is very appreciative of.

He said: “We have a priceless relationship with the army barracks in Windsor.

“Our conditioning coach is stationed there so we have been able to get together twice a week, which is better than most teams I expect.

“We are very lucky as trying to get into a leisure centre or something at this time of year will not be easy. We have had some really good sessions and attendance has been very good.”

He added: “We’ve not been too affected by it and are trying to take it in our stride.

“We have in the past had mad cow disease and petrol shortages to deal with so we are just getting on with it.”

However, Britton is concerned that a potential fixture pile-up might occur, forcing the RFU to extend the rugby season.

He said: “The problem is for the RFU who have to reschedule all the matches.

“I can see the season being extended. It is not something that I think will worry us, but who knows?

“It would be a shame if a lot of hard work since June went to waste at the end of an extended season.

“Realistically there is nothing we can do about it and we are in the same boat as everyone else.

For the rest of this story see this week's Express.