LANCASTER could soon have a club in the Rugby League National Conference after a newly formed club announced its intention to apply for a place in the summer conference.

Lancaster Rugby Club hopes to take their place in the 30 team Summer Conference, which features clubs from areas outside the game's traditional heartlands.

One of the organisers of the new club, John Thomason, said: "Our intention of playing in a summer tournament is a great opportunity for Rugby Union players in the area to try the 13-a side code during their off-season, although we would welcome all players regardless of ability or experience.

"There will be opportunities for all to become involved in the running of the club, both in coaching and development of the game, as well as the administration side of things."

The club also plans to build up a rugby league supporter's organisation locally.

The club will hold a gathering for anyone interested at the Walkabout pub on Tuesday, July 30 from 7.30pm, followed by the live, televised St Helens vs Wigan game on the big screen.

The new Lancaster Rugby Club follows in the footsteps of a club of the same name who played at Giant Axe from 1870.

Like many clubs, it joined the newly formed rugby league game in 1897 and, with several clubs from the Barrow area, formed the ' North-West Rugby League' until costs became prohibitive and the club folded in 1905.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the new Lancaster club can contact John on 01524 33354 or 0772 0028965.