WHARFEDALE are to enter a new team into the league structure in order to provide more competitive matches for players below the top level.

The Wharfedale Rams, as the fourth team will be known, will compete in Yorkshire Division Five after their application was formally accepted this week.

Team manager David Paling felt that the players would benefit greatly from the addition of a competitive edge to at least some of their fixtures. Long-standing club member David Lovell has agreed to act as secretary.

It is also hoped that a Third XV Merit Table, on similar lines to the Second Team set-up which started so successfully this season, will be started. Prime mover on this initiative is Wharfedale director of rugby Michael Harrison and the league, if set up, will be administered by Wharfedale. Contact has been made with all clubs in Allied Dunbar or Jewson leagues inviting them to participate

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