The rugby Football Union (RFU) has surpassed its target of 15,000 registered players for its O2 Touch programme a year ahead of schedule.

Growth experienced since England hosted the Rugby World Cup last autumn has played a big part in the RFU hitting its target. The governing body has registered 17,500 players since 2013, although 5,774 got involved after the showpiece tournament.

The World Cup was also the catalyst behind the opening of 51 new O2 Touch centres, bringing the total number up to 321 with more than 1,000 volunteers.

O2 Touch is a social form of rugby which offers men and women a “great playing experience and workout”, becoming one of the first team sports to combine music, fitness and touch sessions.

RFU rugby development director Steve Grainger said the initiative was one of England Rugby’s “key legacy programmes”.

“The programme has gone from strength-to-strength and the Rugby World Cup has had a positive impact on growth rate,” he added. “Through an innovative approach O2 Touch has been able to attract and retain a new playing audience and deliver a lasting legacy for the game.”

Jennie Price, chief executive of Sport England, added: “This is a fantastic achievement and we are delighted to see the RFU broadening its reach beyond its traditional rugby market. To have exceeded the target a year in advance is a testament to the success of the O2 Touch format and the commitment from all involved.”