A NEW cup competition for amateur rugby league clubs in North Yorkshire will launch next month.

The Steeden North Yorkshire Invitational Cup is aimed at lower-graded community teams, offering them a chance to win some silverware.

The inaugural comp will feature six teams, playing two group fixtures each, on March 17 and 24, with the teams at the top of the table on win-ratio and points-difference meeting in the final on Easter Saturday the following weekend at a venue to be confirmed.

The teams are York Lokomotive, New Earswick All Blacks 'A', Selby Warriors, Scarborough Pirates, Sherburn Bears and Catterick Crusaders.

The cup is in addition to the long-standing - and re-energised - York & District Cup, and organisers are looking to hold it year on year.

Selby Warriors, meanwhile, are continuing to rebuild for summer rugby after withdrawing from the Pennine League and folding their winter team.

The club, in addition to entering the North Yorkshire Invitational Cup, plan to play in this year's York & District Cup and the Selby & District Cup, and also join the entry division of the Yorkshire Men's League.

Club spokesman Dave Sowden said: "Following the unfortunate demise of the winter team there will still be plenty of games for the players throughout the summer."

Any past players or potential new recruits - either to play games or even just train to get fit - can phone 07585 801152 for details.