LANCASTER'S first summer rugby league club is edging closer to its debut.

Formed last year by local enthusiasts, Lancaster Rugby club's first season in the Rugby League Conference Division Five will kick off on May 4 at Carlisle.

The 13-man outfit, whose home ground is the Giant Axe, was born out of the need to increase awareness and participation in rugby league across the district.

"This is a great boost to rugby league locally, and an acknowledgement of how seriously we are taking our inaugural season in the Conference." says John Thomason, chairman of the new club.

"It feels as though the game in Lancaster is returning to its spiritual home, and we are pleased that Lancaster City FC have allowed a partnership to develop."

Lancaster was home to a successful rugby club from 1870 onwards, providing several representative players and becoming the leading 'football' club in the district for 30 years.