SELBY Warriors ARLC have left the Yorkshire League to join the Pennine League.

The Warriors had been in the Yorkshire competition since their formation as Whitemoor Warriors but now reckon the Pennine League is a better set-up for them.

Spokesman Dave Sowden said: "We believe the Pennine League to be much better organised, with a full fixture list given at the start of the season.

"The travelling isn't as bad as first feared, with all games being just up the M62.

"We are likely to join division four, and we want to make a start at working up through the divisions."

Warriors have moved training nights at Sandhill Lane to Mondays and Wednesdays, 7-9pm, and would welcome all new faces.

Sowden added: "Training has been very well attended to date but more players are needed with the new venture in mind."

Meanwhile, Daniel Bate was named player of the season at the Warriors junior section's presentation bash.

Supporters' player of the year was Connor Smith, coaches' player of the year was Stevie Bell, forward of the year was Kurt Cookson, top points scorer was Arron Sharp, most improved was James Gooding and under-8s player of the year was Dean Spooner.

The juniors are still training (Wednesdays 6-7pm) and have been invited to play Headingley Hawks as a curtain-raiser to York City Knights' home match against Workington on August 24.

Parents are reminded that players' photos and birth certificates are required for the season ahead.

Updated: 11:19 Thursday, July 24, 2003