Whilst we would love to be able to give some clarity on what is happening this season, things are still very fluid, so let's look ahead to the proposed changes for next season, with some words from Alec Graham - Club Secretary:

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The proposed re structuring of the leagues is to become effective in season 2021/22. One of the main reasons behind the changes is to reduce travelling time and costs. The RFU have been holding consultations over the last few weeks and the finalised structures are due to be announced within the next few weeks. At present Rossendale play at level five in the Northern Premier League which covers the whole of the North of England from the Scottish border to Cheshire and South Yorkshire. The new set up will almost certainly create two leagues at our level one on the East and one on the West. At present the northern premier has 14 teams which means playing a total of 26 games home and away. The new structure will include two leagues each with twelve teams which means playing 22 games and the possibility of a national cup competition. One net effect is that 14 teams will be increased to 24 teams at our level which will inevitably result in a reduction in playing standards. Some clubs including Lymm have voiced their objections but we are pretty sure these will not effect the current proposals which will be published within the next few weeks. At level four or National Two there are presently two leagues North and South. The changes include an extra central league at this level which in turn creates a better opportunity of promotion for Rossendale to level four if we can achieve a top five place next season.

There is of course the added difficulty of not knowing when next season will start and how many games we will play depending on the start date! Watch this space! A further update will be provided once the RFU publish the reformed league structures within the next few weeks.

Alec Graham. 29th June 2020