COUGAR CUBS is celebrating gaining the Sport Engalnd's Clubmark award.

The club is one of only 57 Rugby League clubs in the country to gain the honour which recognises the club is 'child friendly' with safety checks on all coaches who are also trained in First Aid.

Now the club is being used a 'blue-print' by several other clubs aiming to acheive the honour which recognises they are safe and well run.

The go-ahead outfit is rated one of the best run in Rugby League and have over 250 boys and girls playing the game from eight to 18 years of age.

"There is a clear pathway for youngster interested in the game to make their way to the top of the game. Several of the currently Keighley first team players came through the ranks of the Cubs and there are currently four ex-Cubs who are full time professionals with Super League clubs," said Cubs spokesman Paul Kelly.

The club has also received tremendous backing from local businesses with a total of 11 new kits purchased this year and last year Keighley Town Council recognised their work in the community by funding two new outfits.

Last year the club was disappointed when its bid for lottery funding to develop their headquarters at St John's Road, Utley, was turned down. But after earning the Clubmark award they are to put in new bid for money to help develop modern changing facilities and club rooms.

Teams have finished high up in the West Riding League with the current Under-16s missing out on silveware for the first time in years after bing champions at Under-14 and Under-15 level, West Riding Challenge Cup winners at Under-14 and league runners-up at Under-12 and Under-13 age groups. "We are always looking to welcome anyone who wants to play or volunteer their help, the club can be contacted on 01535-635475," Mr Kelly said.

Keighley Cup round-up -- Page 17

Cougar Cubs celebration -- Page 14