TWO sporting clubs are hoping to join forces to gain the upgraded facilities they need to secure their future.

Last week, Harrogate Rugby Club, which is riding high in Division Two of the national league, heard a planning inspector rule against its bid to relocate to a larger site.

A question mark now hangs over the future of the club, which has already sold its Claro Road ground.

Developers aim to start building homes on the land no later than 2010.

Harrogate Town Football Club, which is second in the Unibond Premier League and has a chance of promotion to the Conference League, also has its sights on expansion.

The planning inspector's decision suggests the club could also struggle to find a new home, and management from the rugby and football clubs are now considering joining forces to find a solution.

Rugby club secretary Ian Gair said: "This could have severe implications for sport across North Yorkshire.

"The inspector's report seems to make it clear there are no circumstances under which relocation would be acceptable."

Former Leeds United chairman Bill Fotherby, now at the helm of Harrogate Town, is also adamant doing nothing is not an option.

"There is so much local sporting talent in this area and I'm determined to accommodate it," he said.

"I believe Harrogate council is behind us, but I would be interested in working with the rugby club.

"It's the future of our children we're talking about and you are always stronger together.''

The leader of Harrogate Borough Council, Councillor Mike Gardner, did not rule out a meeting with the clubs, although he said the council was not in a position to offer any financial assistance.

But he indicated the best solution for the rugby club may be to stay at Claro Road.

"It's fair to say we believe Harrogate has been overdeveloped and we intend limiting the amount of new housing in the town for some time to come," he said.

"As far as we're concerned, Claro Road is a greenfield site and should therefore be used for recreation and not for housing."