BLAENAU Gwent RFC, one of the oldest rugby clubs in Wales, have been forced to stop playing after 132 years in existence.

The Abertillery Park-based club have withdrawn from Welsh National League Division Seven East because they cannot raise a side.

But they stress they have not disbanded, are not insolvent and say they intend to reapply to join the Welsh National League structure next season.

Secretary Dawson Evans says the club have no debts, still have money in the bank and that the four-strong committee continues to meet regularly.

And with the help of other local sides the club hope to maintain over a century of continuous playing by arranging a few midweek friendlies.

"It's sad that we are not playing this season," said Mr Evans, "but the club is still going and we are hopeful that next year, with the proposed restructuring and all clubs being paid the same money, we will be able to put a side out.

"We had eleven players contracted for two years who we were paying, but we decided not to pay anyone else and have been unable to raise a side after two seasons of being relegated.

"With the proposed restructuring clubs next season should be on the same level and we hope to compete in Division 7 or Division 3 of the Gwent League if, as I personally believe, regional rugby comes in."

Mr Evans said several factors, including youngsters switching to soccer, and palyers refusing to play unless paid, had made it difficult to sustain a side in recent seasons.

"It's a struggle for a lot of clubs in the area," he said. "You only have to look at Abertillery (who groundshare with Blaenau Gwent) and the way they have slipped in recent seasons.

"But I think we will be able to raise a side next season. I can't say 100% because of what has happened this year. It will take a lot of hard work, but I think we'll succeed."