HOME-GROWN pair Alex Cornish and Percy Hunt have signed for Chinnor’s senior squad.

The duo both played age-grade rugby for the Thame-based club, before returning last summer to train with the first XV after stints away from Kingsey Road.

Covid has limited their opportunities to impress, but they will each be pushing for a place in the line-up – starting with next month’s friendlies against Rams.

Hunt, a centre, joined Chinnor aged six, before leaving seven years later because of commitments at Bloxham School.

The centre had three shoulder surgeries between 2016 and 2020, but has bounced back.

The 21-year-old said: “It has meant a lot to me to sign for my childhood rugby club.

“The coaching staff have played a big part in helping me develop my game even during the pandemic, and the enjoyable yet competitive attitude of the training sessions is a great atmosphere to be a part of.”

Cornish, a 26-year-old hooker, previously played Colts rugby for Chinnor and has turned out for the Falcons and Wildboys teams since returning from university three years ago.

He said: “It really means a lot to me that my first contract is coming from Chinnor.

“I love being involved with the senior squad, but getting the contract has been massive knowing I deserve to be there.”

Director of rugby, Richard Thorpe said: “Both Percy and Alex have played a huge part in our season to date.

"They have been here through the trials and tribulations of a year dominated by Covid-19.

"With no games to date, the pair have impressed with not only their on-field abilities, but also their character and impact to our culture.

"I am excited to see Percy and Alex in action, and I have no doubt we will see them both feature strongly in our Senior Squad next season.”