Hunslet Warriors U-8s have been hit by the credit crunch.

The Warriors, which were formed seven years ago, need help to fund their rugby strips, balls and activities for the new season.

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The squad are unbeaten this season, but could disband if funds are not secured.

Their coach is Adrian Parkin, an amateur rugby player with Middleton, Wakefield.

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He told Middleton Today: "Unfortunately the current economic downturn is taking its toll on company budgets, so we were unable to secure funds from our previous local sponsor.

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"It's a great shame that such a successful team of young rugby players, who have great potential as future stars, might have to break up if we cannot find support. We have a lot of very sad little boys who just want to play rugby and are doing a great job both on and off the field.

"There is a little money in the pot, but we need to secure between £500 to £1,000 to buy everything we need to run the club.

"We have had to go cap in hand to parents and friends so far, but can't keep asking people to dig deep into their pockets, so we are appealing to local businesses to prop us up."

Children as young as six can play for the club, which trains at Hunslet Green.

For more information, contact Steve Bisby on 078331 82875.