A NEWLY formed under-12s rugby team is starting to warm up for battle in various "friendlies" against youngsters from across the region.

The handful of youngsters, who joined the Durham Tigers Rugby League Club a few months ago, have been converted into a dedicated team that is taking up the sporting challenge at pitches across the North-East.

The club is based at Bishop Auckland rugby club.

Under-12s coach Jonny Wright said: "We have made amazing progress since last summer. We started with a handful of young people and have grown to more than 20 youngsters attending each week.

"We can only go on from strength to strength but to do this we do need the support of more volunteers and players.

"We always have a good time and I think that everyone looks forward to Saturday mornings."

The Tigers senior squad has also started to train on Thursday evenings for the forthcoming season, which starts on May 7.

Anyone interested in playing or getting involved can call Phil Selby on 0191-384 9089.