FRENCH team Avignon enjoy a training session at Elm Park Way prior to this weekend's York International 9s rugby league festival at Heworth ARLC's ground.

Avignon are one of four French sides in the 24-team tournament, including reigning champions FC Lezignan-Corbieres, who kicked off their defence of the Fairfax Trophy today.

Russia, Scotland, South Asia and the West Indies were also represented, while select side York Ironsides, student outfit York Tigers and cross-code club York RUFC flew the flag for the home city.

Updated: 09:47 Saturday, June 26, 2004