Wakefield forced to shut up shop

Wakefield has withdrawn from all competitive rugby following their relegation to National League Two, stating that their decision to disband the 103-year-old rugby club was 'purely financial'.

The Yorkshire club's demotion brought an end to 14 consecutive years of National League One action, and Wakefield - as a rugby entity - will now exist in name only.

Club secretary Roger Parkinson has dismissed rumours of a merger with neighbours Sandal, admitting that Wakefield has no immediate future plans.

"It is a sad day for Wakefield," Parkinson told the BBC.

"It is purely financial - we have had some very generous contributors but they have said 'no more'.

"There is no playing staff here whatsoever, the players and coaches have all found other clubs.

"The hope is that the members can get together a side in the future playing in Yorkshire League Six and carry the name on."

Wakefield's decision to abandon competitive rugby comes after the Rugby Football Union (RFU) rejected a proposal for a possible takeover.

The club had asked to transfer their RFU membership and move to Oxford after being targeted by proposed southern hemisphere side, London Tribe.

Wakefield's demise now leaves National League Two one side short for the 2004/05 season.

In order to avoid disruption ahead of the new season, the Rugby Football Union have decided that the league will operate in a reduced 13-team format for next season only - with only two sides being relegated next summer instead of the usual three.

Wakefield's honours board included the names of former England centre Bryan Barley and former England captain Mike Harrison.

The former won seven Test caps between 1984-88, whilst the latter - a wing - lead his country to the inaugural Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, scoring five tries during the tournament.

The club will continue to pay their RFU subscriptions and members hope that one day Wakefield can one day be resurrected at a lower level.