RUGBY League is coming to the county in the shape of the South Dorset Giants - a new team created by Dave Allan.

Allan, a member of Weymouth RFC's union set up, is keen to promote the game's other discipline by introducing the new club.

Two fixtures have already been arranged with the Exeter Centurions this July while other friendlies, against Somerset Vikings and Plymouth Titans, are in the pipeline.

Team manager Allan said: "By calling it the South Dorset Giants we hope to attract guys from further afield than just Weymouth.

"The idea is to have three or four games up to August and see what the interest is like. It won't overlap the rugby union season and if anything it will help players improve their fitness ahead of next season.

"There is the South West Conference, which is a Devon based league, and they're desperate for a sixth team. We've got a massive catchment area so the scope is there for a new team.

"I've had a good response so far from the Weymouth players so we will open it up to other clubs in the area. If everything goes well we will look to enter a league next year."

Training for the South Dorset Giants, under the guidance of Anthony Cowburn, gets underway on Saturday, June 7 (11am) at Monmouth Avenue ahead of the Giants' first clash with the Centurions - a home meeting on July 5.

Anyone interested in joining or sponsoring the Giants can contact Dave Allan on 07976375526 or alternatively via email on davidallan140@btinternet.com