SOUTHEND Saxons have been boosted by specialist coaching sessions as they continue to prepare for the forthcoming campaign.

Harlequins first team forwards coach Alex Codling and Saracens’ backs coach Kevin Sorrell have both visited Warners Bridge to work with the squad.

And Southend’s director of rugby Josh Ward feels both sessions will be hugely beneficial.

“It was huge for us to have Alex and Kev down at the club,” said Ward.

“We like to have a learning environment to better the players but these sessions would also have helped our coaches because it was great to see coaches like that in action close up.

“Kev got across some insightful and key messages and Alex was great too.

“He worked on our line-out last season when he came down and really did improve us so I’m sure that will happen again.”

Southend - who will be lining up in London One North this season - have beaten Old Dartfordians in pre-season so far, along with Canvey Island in the Ken Light Memorial Trophy.

Saxons will complete their warm-up fixtures at home to Saffron Walden on Friday night.

And Ward is pleased with how things are shaping up ahead of the season.

“We’re happy with the signings we’ve made and how the games have gone,” said Ward.

“It’s going well.”