We’re going up!

There will be some big local rugby derbies next season after it was confirmed that Welshpool Rugby Club have been promoted to a new Division Two North.

The North Wales set-up has been restructured and this week it was revealed that Welshpool have been given the nod to step up, and can look forward to some almighty battles with Newtown, Llanidloes and COBRA next season.

“From our perspective, we're obviously very pleased,” said Barry Williams, spokesperson for Welshpool RFC.

“The lads have worked hard this year, and there's still more to come from this group of players.

“It's going to be a tough division, but there's plenty of interesting games in there, which is great for the supporters as much as the players.

“In terms of affecting our planning going forward, it won't exactly change things, but it will make what we were already planning to do more vital.

“Like every club, our ultimate ambition is to get to the highest level that we possibly can, but to have a first team competing at the top level, you need the backing of a strong and self-sustaining second team, providing regular rugby to players looking to push their way into the first team and to those who just want a run-out and to enjoy the social side of the game.”

In order for this to happen, Williams said he will be stepping down from his role as North Wales Rugby Union Secretary to focus on bolstering the second string to provide strong support for the firsts.

“Much like with the juniors, we will be taking the approach of looking at what we have, making sure there's game time for them, and working out how best to develop our numbers, rather than saying that because we haven't got 15 or 20 players right now, there's no point bothering,” he explained.

Joining the local clubs in the new division will be Abergele, Dinbych, Shotton Steel, Llangollen, Wrexham, Harlech, Rhyl and Bangor.

If you would like to get involved, even if it is returning to the game and supporting the second string, contact Williams at bjohnw111@aol.com.