THE men's rugby team at University College Worcester have crowned a magnificent season by winning the BUSA Premier North B League and gaining promotion to both the Premier A League and the RFU National Student League.

It is the fourth time in six years that the men's first XV have gained promotion and it places the student team in the top league for all university teams in the country.

They will now be competing against the top 12 teams in England and Wales, including Loughborough, Durham, UWIC, Swansea, Bath, and Exeter.

After last season's play-off disappointment, the team was determined to gain promotion this time round and finished six points clear of their closest rival.

The second XV (the Warratahs) also had a very productive season, finishing a close second to Birmingham University in Midlands 2A.

First year players have represented the club in the Freshers XV and several tasted first team rugby during the campaign. They crowned a fine season by winning the Midlands Universities Tens held at Broadstreet RFC.

These successes have provided the club with a strong nucleus of players, and their close association with Malvern RFC, for whom a number of players have played this season, has also helped in developing experience and creating a positive club spirit.

A new link with Northampton Saints offers a pathway for those players capable of stepping into professional rugby.

With Worcester Rugby Club preventing its Academy players from representing the university team it has been essential for the club to develop links with other clubs prepared to work in partnership.

Given the profile of the RFU's National Student League the student club is hopeful that they can attract a sponsor to support them in the top flight.

Next season they will be playing the length and breadth of the country, which is a massive undertaking.

Anyone interested who would like further details should contact club chairman Stuart Proud on 07736-676909.