DARLINGTON Ladies Rugby Club is appealing for more players as it prepares for its debut in the Merit league this season.

The team, which was formed just last year, played fewer games than expected in its first season due to bad weather and the foot-and-mouth crisis. But they still made an encouraging start, winning one of five matches played.

Team manager Jerry Byerley said: "We are making an appeal to any woman aged over 16 who is interested in new challenges, meeting people, getting fit and having a good time to contact me or come down to a training session." Training takes place every Tuesday at Blackwell Meadows, starting at 7pm.

The team is also looking for a sponsor and anyone who can help in any way is asked to contact Mr Byerley on 01325 487589 or 01325 503186.