ILKLEY have been dealt a body blow with the departure of two of their most talented young players.

Full back Ben Magee is joining neighbours Otley and scrum half Jack Maplesden is signing for Huddersfield.

Both players have forced their way into the Yorkshire squad this season and want to step up another level by playing in National League Two North.

Ilkley’s head of rugby Rhys Morgan said: “Obviously we are disappointed to see them leave but they go with our blessing.

“Ben and Jack have been outstanding for us and it is understandable that they are looking to step up a division.

“We have told them that they know where we are if things don’t work out.”

Magee, who joined them from Old Grovians, has spent four seasons with Ilkley and has lit up many a game with his exciting running and try-scoring exploits.

He was a key figure in his club’s National Sevens triumph last year when he was named player of the finals.

Maplesden featured prominently at the end of the season as Ilkley climbed to seventh in the North Premier League – their highest-ever finish.

With versatile back Pat Atkinson and fly half Charles Morgan both going travelling in the autumn and winger Tom Milner moving to London, Ilkley will be seeking replacements.

“This is a chance for players like Charlie Ramsay, Chris Gemmell and Struan Connor to press their claims,” said Rhys Morgan.

“Obviously, we will look to bring in a few more players, as we learned last season that we need more depth.”

One newcomer who has joined the squad is Cleckheaton lock Luke Pearson.

Ilkley picked up their second sevens tournament win of the year last Saturday at Wetherby, with the Dalesmen defeating Mighty Peth 26-7 in the final.

They will be action again tomorrow at Caldy but had to delay selection of their squad until Yorkshire announced their side for their County Championship game with Eastern Counties.