ROYSTON Rugby Club this week got the news they were dreading – their first team are relegated. They lose their place in the Herts-Middlesex League Division Two following a tough season of highs and lows. It has taken several weeks for the league to confir

ROYSTON Rugby Club this week got the news they were dreading - their first team are relegated.

They lose their place in the Herts-Middlesex League Division Two following a tough season of highs and lows.

It has taken several weeks for the league to confirm Royston were down because of the need for other results to go in their favour.

When Old Streetonian became only the second team, after Royston, to beat Old Ashmoleans, Royston's plight was confirmed.

Despite a dedicated year of captaincy from Kirk Woodford and the ever-present regulars providing the spine of the team, Royston were punished by injuries and a depleted squad.

Chairman Lloyd Mullenger said: "I would like to praise the efforts and hard work put in this season by the hardcore of the first team.

"We need to strengthen the squad and to stabilise its future.

"We have thriving youth and junior rugby sections and see many good players for the future but, short term, we have to meet the challenge of building a stronger and more successful first team."

The club's annual meeting will be held next Thursday at the Heath Sports Club, at 7.30pm.