Leeds Rugby are to spend £1 million laying a new pitch at Headingley.

The current surface, which was last re-laid in 1963 when Headingley became the first club ground in British sport to install undersoil heating, will be dug up next month.

Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington said: "It is a considerable investment for the club but vital if we are to maintain our position within the sport and attract more events to the stadium."

The pitch is used all-year round by Leeds Rhinos and Championship rugby union team Leeds Carnegie.

The improvements, due for completion by December, will include a new drainage system and undersoil heating but the club have decided against using artificial grass.

Head groundsman Jason Booth said: "We explored fully the option of all types of pitches, including a 3G artificial surface. However, the overwhelming outcome from both experts and users was that a natural reinforced grass pitch was the right option for Headingley Carnegie Stadium.

"The new construction will provide a consistent surface all year round and will mean an end to muddy pitches at Headingley Carnegie."