91�ȱ�

Jersey have signed up home-grown hooker Luke Stratford for the new season in the Championship.

The 19-year-old came through the club's academy and will hope to join fellow Jersey-developed players like Ed Dawson and James Voss in the first team.

"It's incredible - it is so amazing to play for Jersey at Colts level, but to be included in the professional set-up is another step altogether," he said.

"I'm just so proud to represent the island and play alongside these lads."

Stratford could pack down alongside another Jersey-born player in the shape of prop Jon Brennan, who taught the youngster at school.

"If, and hopefully when, I get my first game for the first team it is just going to be unbelievable," added Stratford, who represented Hampshire at Under-15, U16, U17 and U18 level.

"I'm gaining so much experience from all the older players, especially Elvis Taione and Dave Felton. Training with them is going to make my skills and techniques stronger, giving me the best chance possible.

"My ambitions are to get a couple of matches this season and continue to develop."