London Scottish can confirm that Alec Coombes and Harry Sheppard have signed to stay at the club for another year.

The pair will be looking to build on their opportunities this year and be involved on a more regular basis. 

Sheppard made his first-team debut in the victory over Rotherham Titans last Saturday, and is looking forward to more regular rugby next season after impressing at inside-centre.

The 19-year-old has been part of the academy set-up with the Scots, which has given him the platform to make the move up to the First XV. 

Sheppard said: “It was great to make my debut last week and it has given me a taste for hopefully what is to come. I’ve enjoyed this year and am excited about the future at London Scottish.”

Coombes, who is also a product of the London Scottish Academy, recovered from shoulder surgery last year, and the 20-year-old has made two appearances on the wing for the Scots, and will also be looking to make his place more frequent next year.

He started in all 10 of Scotland under-20s' games in the 2014/15 season, wearing the number 11 shirt on seven occasions before occupying the outside centre berth for the final three ties of the World Rugby Under-20 Championship. 

“I’ll be entering my third year at Scottish and it’s a great place to develop as a player.” Said Coombes.

He added: “Getting as much game time as possible and staying fit will be important, and hopefully it can be my best year at the club. I’ve worked with Sean before with the Scotland Under 20’s so it’s an exciting place to be going forward.”

Head Coach Peter Richards has been impressed with the duo in recent weeks. “We’re pleased that Alec and Harry will be with us for another year. 

They have definitely improved over the season and have seen some first team action in the final stages of the campaign, which I’m sure will be the case in 16/17 as they develop further.”