New train operating company Northern Rail will sponsor rugby league's prestigious National League Cup competition in 2005.

The York-based company, who have taken over the rail travel franchises previously held by Arriva Trains Northern and First North West, have signed a contract with the Rugby Football League (RFL) to back the competition which includes York City Knights until the end of the 2007 tournament.

Although the RFL does not disclose details of its contracts, we can confirm that the Northern Rail deal will be worth a six-figure sum to the sport over two years.

This year the qualifying rounds of the tournament are being re-structured and the new fixture format will be announced shortly.

For the 2005 season the qualifying league system will be completed on March 25 and this will be followed by the knockout stages of the competition with quarter-finals, semi-finals and final, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 17.

Chris Kimberley, Northern Rail's commercial director, explained: "Our approach to delivering local rail services is centred on working in partnership with the communities we serve.

"Sponsorship of this high-profile sporting competition provides a further opportunity to demonstrate that we are very much a part of the everyday life of the millions of people who live, work and have fun in the north of England."

Richard Lewis, RFL executive chairman, said: "The National League Cup (formerly Arriva Trains Cup) has grown in stature and popularity during the last three seasons and we are fortunate to secure a sponsor of Northern Rail's quality for the next two years.

"Rugby league, like any other professional sport, depends on the support of sponsors in order to promote and develop its competitions, so we are delighted to welcome Northern Rail into the sport."

Updated: 10:27 Thursday, December 02, 2004