A RUGBY club that reformed in 2007 after dwindling numbers forced it to disband ten years earlier fears that history may again repeat itself.

Sedgefield District Rugby Club says it will have no choice but to call it a day unless more players join the County Durham squad this season.

The club, which plays in Rugby Football Union Durham and Northumberland division three, has already cancelled games and borrowed players from opponents this season due to injuries, holidays and work commitments putting people out of action.

It now risks being fined or disciplined if it cancels any more matches.

Speaking before a match against Yarm Rugby Club, vice captain, Paul Wilkinson, 35, from Sedgefield, said: “I was one of the players that helped reform the club and I played for the original squad in the 1990s.

“I would be absolutely gutted if we lost it but unless more players come forward we will have no option.

“It is such a great, family-friendly club. A lot of us have kids and all the wives and children come along to watch the matches.

“I would really miss the social side too. We have nights out and go on tour."

The club shares facilities with Sedgefield Cricket Club on Station Road and trains at Sedgefield Community College from 7.15pm on Thursday nights.

It also holds regular training sessions for children to encourage youngsters to be more active and take up team sports.

Membership has fallen in recent months due to players going to university or moving to different clubs closer to home.

Fifteen players are required per team for a match but the club needs at least 25 players to operate.

Players do not need to live in Sedgefield but must be aged 17 or over.

Club captain, Kyle Sutcliffe, 30, said: “I moved to Sedgefield a few years ago and I have made so many friends through the club.

“Rugby is a fantastic sport and anyone who would like to give it a go is welcome to give us a call or join us at one of our training sessions.”

For more information, contact 07732399541, search for Sedgefield District Rufc on Facebook or visit pitchero.com/clubs/sedgefielddistrictrugbyclub/