League one suffered another blow last night it was confirmed that Newcastle Thunder were pulling out of the competition for 2024.
A few weeks ago London Skolar opted out and now the League is set to run with just eight teams.
At a meeting last week League One and Championship clubs discussed the depleted numbers but a call for a revived two-sectioned Championship was not agreed.
Workington Town are the only Cumbrian side to contest League One next season and face the prospect of playing just seven home games.
However there is a likelihood of extra loop games being fitted in against so many existing clubs.
Following the official confirmation that Newcastle Thunder has been relegated from the Betfred Championship this season, Newcastle Thunder Ltd has made the difficult decision not to participate in next season’s competition.
In a statement today the club said: “It is with great sadness that we make this announcement. Growing rugby league in the North East was an incredible journey, and we are all devastated that it did not work out.
“Unfortunately, the impact of COVID-19, combined with the low levels of regional growth and development in the game, means it just isn’t feasible to continue.
“We will be fulfilling all our player and staff contracts and will do our best to support them in finding new positions where possible. The time all our staff and players have put into the club reflects how much we have invested in Newcastle Thunder and is a testament to the hard work they’ve carried out.
“The Board at Newcastle Thunder would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated current and former staff, players, coaches, volunteers, and generous sponsors. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in sustaining our competitiveness throughout the years.
“We would like to thank our devoted fans, whose loyalty has been an incredible source of motivation over time.
“This was not the decision we wanted to make, and we remain hopeful that we can find a new home for the team.
“No further statements will be given at this time.”
Coach Chris Thorman had left Workington at the end of the 2022 to take charge at Newcastle.
