Preparations are well under way for the clubs' debut season, and The Gladiators will be competing in the open age RL Merit League this season but hope to cater for other age groups in the future.

"We've had a huge level of interest and I'm very optimistic about the future," said Jim Green, one of the Gladiators founder members.

"Previous clubs in Chester have proven successful in the short term but we are hoping to build for the future and ensure that rugby league becomes a big part of the city's sporting culture."

The Gladiators first training session has been organised for Thursday, April 3, and will take place on Hoole Park playing fields. Training gets under way at 7pm and anybody interested in playing rugby league is welcome to attend, whatever their level of experience.

In addition to prospective players, the club would also be delighted to hear from any potential coaches, physiopherapists, volunteers or sponsors who wish to aid the development of rugby league in Chester.

For more information contact Jim via rugbyleaguechester@yahoo.co.uk or visit the clubs website at www.chesterrugbyleague.cjb.net