Preston Grasshoppers' league season is cancelled by the RFU

The Rugby Football Union have decided to cancel all competition apart from elite level.

Grasshoppers, who were relegated from the National League North Two last season on a point-per-game ratio after the virus forced a premature halt to the campaign, were looking to bounce back quickly in the North Premier Division.

The RFU have revealed a plan to organise a series of regional bubbles consisting of five or six team, who could play fixtures against each other.

In a statement to the club's players, members and supporters, chairman Keith Brierley said: "I am just writing to you all informing you of the latest decision made by the RFU.

"As some of you may be aware they have decided to cancel all rugby below the Championship for the remainder of this season.

"This in effect puts an end to all league rugby at the Hoppers.

"However they have formulated an idea of “localised bubbles” consisting of 5-6 teams, which in itself is not a bad idea as it gives us a few games before the end of the season, and at least should bring in some revenue to the club and get the players back in action.

"As you will all know the club has had to close whilst this latest lockdown is in place, but rest assured that we will be back up and running the moment we are allowed.

"I hope sincerely that you and your families are all keeping well in these somewhat turbulent times and that with the advent of these vaccines sometime in the near future we return to some form of normality.

"Hopefully if all goes well, we should be able to return to a full programme for the 2021/22 season."