WESTCLIFF Rugby Club will be playing in the same league as local rivals Southend Saxons after being handed a relegation reprieve.

Westcliff had been expected to drop down to London One North after finishing third from bottom in National Three London & SE last season.

But East Grinstead’s financial difficulties have seen them fall out of the league, meaning Westcliff will now be staying put – much to the delight of their first team manager Rick Compton.

“It’s a challenge and opportunity that we welcome,” said Compton.

“We recognise that over the course of the season just finished we were not quite good enough, but we are both surprised and delighted at the early opportunity to test ourselves at this level once more.

“It’s hoped that some senior players during the course of the summer will begin to approach fitness after long lay-offs and that we will be able to supplement the squad with a few new faces to strengthen the group.

“They are certainly needed and will be sought-after too.”

Westcliff triumphed just five times in 26 games last term and Compton is expecting another tough test next term.

He believes the league could be more difficult than before but is certain his side’s games with Southend, who were relegated from National Two South last term, will prove to be a popular addition to the fixture list.

“Inevitably eyes will be drawn to the games with Southend and that is something to look forward to for the local rugby community,” said Compton.

“But looking at the league as a whole it certainly doesn’t look like being any easier with five new clubs joining the division.”

>National Three London & SE sides next season: Amersham & Chiltern, Chichester, Colchester, Dorking, Guernsey, Guildford, Hertford, Shelford, Southend, Sutton & Epsom, Tonbridge Juddians, Wimbledon, Westcombe Park and Westcliff.