A record number of teams are competing in the League this season. Newcomers Northallerton third team and Raskelf second team have swelled the ranks to 53 sides in six divisions covering an area from Thirsk in the north to Ben Rhydding in West Yorkshire.

Matches get under way on April 28 and the annual tournament will be held at Harrogate Racquets Club from June 8-14.

The decision by Northallerton, whose club captain is Malcolm Southam, to put a third team into the league follows the rapid promotion success of their other sides.

The first team will compete in Division Three this season, having won promotion in successive seasons since joining the league. The club's second team will play in Division Five following promotion at the first attempt last season and the newcomers will be moving into Division Six.

Raskelf, whose club skipper is Sally Banks, made swift progress up the divisions and have entered a second team this time.