NORTHERN has supplied grassroots rugby teams in West Yorkshire with new kit and equipment to help improve the training experience for young players.

It follows a competition organised by the train operator earlier this year which saw more than 4,000 people apply for support for their local club.  

West Yorkshire teams to benefit from the new kit and equipment - which includes steeden balls and bags, bibs, tackle shields, water bottles and cones - are Brighouse Rangers, Fryston Warriors, Halifax-based King Cross Park RLFC and Stanningley AFRLC.

Members of Stanningley AFRLC recently had the chance to meet two of their rugby heroes - Ash Golding, from Huddersfield Giants, and Sophie Robinson, from Leeds Rhinos - and show off their new kit.

Stuart Taylor, head of commercial development at Northern, said: "Were always looking for ways to support the communities we serve.

"Rugby has a strong following among our customer base and the aim of this competition was to encourage more young people to take up the sport in their local area.

"Financial support for local sports groups can be tough - so for us to be able to provide them with new kit and equipment is something practical that will ensure more people have access to this great game."