Cumbrian Rugby League club Aspatria Hornets are holding a Rugby League 9s competition on Saturday, August 18 at Aspatria RUFC.

The event takes place in the mid-season break from Cumberland League action and the idea is that as well as maintaining interest during the season the competition will also develop the sport of Rugby League in and around Aspatria.

Club Official and Tournament Organiser, Caroline Hamilton said: “9s is a great format; it is exciting to watch and the players speed and skill is paramount.

“One mistake could cost the game. We are hoping that this tournament will help us maintain and develop the interest we have generated since we re-launched the Hornets last season.

“The tournament is a great way for teams to keep fit and compete for something during the mid-season break at some of the best facilities in the North of England in those of Aspatria RUFC.”

There will be a maximum of 16 teams who could take part and the event is open to all teams in the Cumberland League and beyond.

The tournament will take place under Rugby League rules and there will be a cup and a plate competition. In addition it is envisaged that it will be a family friendly day with some amusements and refreshments being available.

Rugby League 9s is an entertaining variant of the game and only last year Cumbria reached the final of the RFL Floodlit 9s competition at Headingley Carnegie where they were defeated in the final by Warrington Wolves.

Fans can expect fast and skilful rugby and it will be entertaining for rugby die-hards and newcomers to the game alike.

RFL Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer met Aspatria Hornets club officials this weekend and provided them with three of the recognisable balls used on the professional 9s circuit.

Ralph Rimmer said: “We are delighted to support this event and I’m sure it will be a great success.

“It was fantastic to see the success of Cumbria in the 9s competition this year and this is testament to the Rugby League talent in the region.

“9s is an exciting and inclusive version of the sport and I’m pleased to see community Rugby League clubs like Aspatria Hornets really getting behind it.”

The prize is a custom kit made by Canterbury of New Zealand worth in excess of £1200. This has been kindly donated by our kit suppliers Canterbury Newcastle.

Any teams who are interested in participating in the Aspatria 9s should contact Club Secretary, Peter Thorndike on peter.bod@talktalk.net for entry details.

Alternatively, join their Facebook group at Aspatria Hornets Rugby League FC or follow them on Twitter @AspatriaHornets