EBBW Vale have backed the decision by fellow premier clubs Bridgend and Neath to join forces in a provincial set-up next season.

The two clubs have stolen a march on the rest by announcing their plans while discussions are going on, though getting nowhere.

They were in danger of being swallowed up, Neath by Swansea and Bridgend by Cardiff, in a new provincial system to be brought in next season.

But they have now decided to join forces while continuing as separate entities in a first or premier division below the provincial sides to play in the Heineken Cup and Celtic League competitions.

The so-called bigger clubs will not appreciate their move and already Llanelli chief executive Stuart Gallacher has condemned their plans, describing them as a loose cannon.

He also doubts whether Neath can operate in this way as they are wholly owned by the Welsh Rugby Union. But Ebbw Vale chief executive Ray Harris backs the plan of Bridgend and Neath.

"They are not merging, they have both agreed to form a provincial side to represent their district," he said.

"What the WRU have done is say they would prefer the clubs to sort it out, so what Bridgend and Neath have done is taken a lead, which has to be applauded.

"David Moffett (the WRU's new chief executive) has told us if provincial rugby is going to happen it will be voted on at an EGM.

"Perhaps other clubs, like Bridgend and Neath, should look to see how viable it is and if it can work. You are not going to do that on your own.

"Neath and Bridgend would stay on their own, but if provincial rugby comes in they will establish whether it can work and then make it happen.

"It seems a very sensible move and no matter how much we all protest there will be an egm to decide."

Bridgend owner Leighton Samuel says he's fed of the 'talk but no action' nature at management board level or among premier clubs.