Darlington Mowden Park emphasised yesterday that they are committed to moving to a new ground at West Park, Faverdale.

They admit they are talking to Darlington about common areas of interest now that both clubs are in National Division Three North, but stress that suggestions of a possible amalgamation are very premature.

A joint statement from the clubs said: "Informal discussions are taking place and these have been authorised by our relevant committees.

"It was felt that, as we are both now playing in National Three North, it was appropriate to meet and discuss the future of rugby in Darlington and explore where there may be areas of potential common interest. We have exchanged views on what basis the clubs may work together."

Mowden's Director of Rugby, John Parkinson, said: "We have spent five and a half years deliberating over our move and a tremendous amount of hard work has gone into it. We have the support of the local authority and we are committed to the move."

Darlington found they were not in such a healthy position financially as they would have liked prior to stepping up into the national leagues and have appointed a new management team under the chairmanship of Bill Jones.

"We are very interested in having discussions, but realise they are just exploratory at this stage," he said.