HALTON RUFC have vowed to carry on in league rugby next season and hope-fully beyond after a crisis meeting.

It was feared the club might fold due to dwindling numbers.

But the immediate prospect of Widnes Rec losing almost 70 years of rugby union tradition is over after a rallying cry from club captain John Parker.

A meeting at the Liverpool Road clubhouse drew a good turnout and 'a lot of positives'.

Club spokesman Derek Dyer said: 'It was decided that with a lot of hard work and commitment by the small squad, they would continue in the league for their 70th year and hopefully beyond.

'John had the full support of all present and a number of people were ready to take up the varying jobs required for the club to continue.'

Halton RUFC will now hold their AGM on Monday, August 7 at 8pm.

All players and members are asked to attend and there will be various posts up for selection.

Halton are also on the lookout for a coach and more front-row players to strengthen their squad.

Training - initially light - has started on Mondays at 7pm and all players are welcome.

The club is in the process of arranging a pre-season friendly.