BRADFORD Salem were honoured with a civic reception at City Hall last night.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, said of the SSE Yorkshire Division Two champions and Yorkshire Shield winners: "It is a fantastic achievement to go through a season unbeaten, playing 26 league games and winning 24 and drawing two.

"It is the 1990s since you were last here and I know that Yorkshire Division One will be a challenge – but maybe you will be back here next year with some more trophies!

"Your success has been a team effort but special mention should go to director of rugby Sam Gardner, who had some big shoes to fill, and captain and vice-captain James Cunliffe and Andy Robinson for their leadership qualities."