Junior rugby players were today desperately hoping they could hang on to their home just before the new season starts.

Raiders, who are based at Holme Wood, Bradford, were using the changing and kitchen facilities at Pit Hill Community and Environment Centre, Holme Lane, while the rest of the building was unoccupied.

Raiders head coach and secretary Michael Lambert said they were worried when they were told by Bradford Council the building was to be 'mothballed'.

However the Council is negotiating to let the premises and following the intervention of ward Councillor Michael Johnson (Lab, Tong), it is hoped the team can still use the facilities.

With six weeks to go until the beginning of the season, Mr Lambert was desperately trying to resolve the problem or find somewhere else for the club to use.

He said he not yet been able to tell the young players about the situation for fear of upsetting them.

"It's hindering the development of rugby league in an area that really needs something like that."

Mr Lambert said he was hoping they could stay at Pit Hill but he appealed to anyone who could help them by providing changing facilities and a pitch to contact him on (01274) 681001.

About 30 youngsters are involved in the club, which has two teams, for under tens and under 13s.

Coun Johnson said the team was a valuable community resource which he did not want to see move out of Holme Wood.

He said it was important that the changing facilities were used and the club's needs needed to be taken into account.

"I am hoping that the Raiders can stay there - Mr Lambert lives in Holme Wood and these are local youngsters. We are very keen to encourage active citizenship and I am trying my best to help him."

He said he was hopeful a solution could be found.

A Bradford Council spokesman said: "The building is a purpose-built environmental centre. To increase the day-to-day use of this building and make it less vulnerable, we are currently negotiating its letting.

"The party we are negotiating with is willing to consider accommodating the Raiders, though unfortunately no decision can be confirmed until the tenancy has been finalised. This is expected to occur very soon."