KNUTSFORD have confirmed their senior team has switched to the North West Intermediate League for next season.

Blues played higher up the Rugby Football Union (RFU) system, in Cheshire South, last term.

However they propped up the table after winning only one of their matches.

They believe that dropping down will help them to rebuild.

It has worked for neighbours Holmes Chapel, who have celebrated back-to-back promotions since making a similar move three years ago.

"Last season was a difficult one for us," said Tony Evans, president at Knutsford Rugby Club.

"A restructure by the RFU didn't help us, because they added a number of sides to our division that had previously been playing at a higher level.

"Those changes gave us little chance of winning on a regular basis.

"That doesn't look likely to be any different, so we've made a decision we feel is best for the club and an extremely loyal and committed group of senior players."

Knutsford will play in a 10-team section that also includes Holmes Chapel seconds.

Acton Nomads seconds, Congleton thirds, Crewe & Nantwich fourths, Eagle seconds, Linley thirds, Lymm fourths, Old Bedians thirds and Oswestry thirds complete the Division Five South line-up.

Evans told the Guardian the switch will help players making a transition to adult rugby from their improving colts side.

Knutsford's under 18s will play in the North West League's Senior Division E during the first part of next term.

"We have a thriving junior section with more than 200 members," said Evans.

"Moving leagues allows us to continue that development as well as an opportunity to attract new players."

For details about playing senior rugby at Knutsford, call captain Sam Bensky on 07920 848668.