Harlequins number eight Nick Easter is hoping Rugby World Cup fever will entice fans to get down to the Stoop when the domestic season kicks off.

The Aviva Premiership action starts on October 16 – with Quins hosting Wasps at The Stoop – and Easter is putting his weight behind a campaign directed at fans who have never been to a domestic match.

The Aviva Premiership First Timers campaign is giving away 2,000 tickets to the uninitiated, in the hope of tapping into the biggest world cup in history.

Easter said: “With the Rugby World Cup engrossing the nation, especially with what has gone on so far, there will be a lot more interest in the sport.

“With the ticket giveaway, fans will be able to see the stars of the show in their club colours, as well as realise that the rugby does not stop after the world cup final.”

He added: “Domestic rugby is a great and friendly environment to be around. There is good banter and respect between fans, but clearly you also have the fervent support with fans getting behind their team, especially away from home.

“The naturally physical nature of the game means the players and fans can respect what has gone on for 80 minutes, then share a beer and talk about it.

“It’s good for families, especially at the Stoop, where there are a lot of activities around the ground for kids - it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.”

Nick Easter was speaking in support of Aviva Premiership Rugby First Timers, a joint initiative from Premiership Rugby and Aviva to give 2,000 new rugby fans their first taste of the Aviva Premiership. First Timers can apply for free tickets this season at premiershiprugby.com/avivafirsttimers.