NEWPORT Rugby Supporters Club are mounting a campaign to try to get the Newport name into the Gwent team.

They start their campaign tomorrow when they are collecting signatures in John Frost Square in Newport.

There is still no date set for the launch of the region, and though the WRU want Gwent agreement on the title is way off.

The naming of the Pontypridd/Bridgend team has been put back at least a month because Ponty fans objected to their exclusion from the proposed title of RCT Ravens, though it is claimed neither Pontypridd nor Bridgend will be in the title.

Newport Supporters Club chairman Dennis Bennett said: "We are proud to be associated with the best run and best supported club in Welsh rugby.

"Newport has successfully led the way in marketing the game in Wales in the professional era. Its community initiatives have inspired a new generation of supporters in our city and districts.

"The special match day experience at Rodney Parade has continued to attract a substantial fan base from Newport, Gwent and beyond with support averaging 6,000 even in a relatively poor season.

"The immense potential of Newport has been realised by the commitment and investment of Tony Brown and the board of directors. We believe Newport can already lay claim to be a regional club.

"We are increasingly concerned that the new company is putting at risk the huge gains Newport has made.

"Our preference is for Newport to be a stand alone club, but the minimum we can accept is that the new team retains the established and successful brand name of Newport, which is recognised throughout the rugby world.

"Failure to include Newport in the title will result in the significant loss of supporters and revenue to the new company.

"We call on Newport supporters to join in our campaign to include Newport in the name and ensure the success of the new regional team by signing our petition."