HARWICH and Dovercourt Rugby Club's Owls have been promoted - are are looking forward to the challenge ahead.

The ladies' team finished as runners-up in their division last season and have now been elevated to the National Challenge SE North One League.

The Owls’ first fixture will be at home to Chelmsford Ladies on Sunday, September 11.

"It's three years since the team started and the ladies continue to impress," said head coach Walter Blacker.

"With the full backing of club chairman Barry Male, an experienced coaching team and excellent training facilities, everything is in place to help ladies' rugby thrive here at Harwich.

"The number of our players playing representative rugby is a great reflection of how far we've progressed, with nine players being selected for last season's Eastern Counties League squads.

"The RFU have recognised the team’s development and promoted us to the National Challenge SE North One League.

"And this higher level will certainly mean the standard of women’s rugby will be worth supporting over the next season."

Last season saw the Owls reach the third round of the National Junior Cup.

They also came second in their league, losing the title only on points difference.

In addition, the team entered three sevens competitions - winning one of them and coming runner-up in the other two.

"The team numbers have also grown, with almost 30 women now actively involved in training and playing," added Blacker.

"And hope this will continue to grow, allowing a second team to be fielded within the next two years."

Any ladies looking to join the team should get in touch via the Harwich RUFC Facebook page.

The Owls will be training every Tuesday and Thursday, from 7.15pm, throughout July and Thursday evenings in August.

All new players are welcome.