WATH BROW HORNETS 

Wath Brow Hornets Amateur Rugby League Football Club

Is based in Cleator Moor, Cumbria, is a prominent and historic club within the English amateur rugby league scene. Known for its deep community roots and competitive success, the club has played a significant role in the development of rugby league in the region.

Historical Overview

The origins of rugby in Wath Brow trace back to the late 19th century. The original Wath Brow club was established in 1898, shortly after the formation of the Northern Union (now Rugby Football League), and participated in early county competitions. However, this initial incarnation disbanded in 1904. A second version emerged in 1920 but was again dissolved at the outbreak of World War II in 1939. pitchero.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org+3pitchero.com

The current Wath Brow Hornets club was founded in 1955 following a meeting at the Fleecy Ram public house. The club gradually built its reputation, achieving its first major success with a Cumberland Under-19 Cup victory over local rivals Kells. Notably, former player Bill Holliday progressed to captain Great Britain, becoming one of the club's most distinguished alumni. pitchero.com+1angelfire.com+1

Competitive Achievements

Wath Brow Hornets have a storied history of competitive success:

• National Conference League Premier Division Champions: 2003–04, 2008–09, 2012, 2019
  
  

• National Conference League Division Two Champions: 2002–03
  
  

• BARLA National Cup Winners: 2003–04, 2004–05
  
  

• BARLA Cumbria Cup Winners: 1998–99, 1999–2000, 2000–01, 2001–02
  
  

• Cumberland League Champions: 1975–76, 1976–77, 1997–98, 1999–2000, 2000–01, 2001–02 en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org+1
  
  

Community Engagement and Development

Beyond on-field success, Wath Brow Hornets are deeply embedded in their local community. The club operates a comprehensive youth system, nurturing talent from under-6s to under-18s. In 2024, players Tom Clarke and Matty Creasey represented England Community Lions on a tour to France, highlighting the club's commitment to developing young athletes.

In 2021, the club opened a £200,000 indoor training facility, funded through grants from the Rugby League World Cup 2021 legacy initiative and local councils. This state-of-the-art facility provides year-round training opportunities for all age groups and serves as a community fitness hub. newsandstar.co.uk+1newsandstar.co.uk+1

Recent Developments

In January 2025, Wath Brow Hornets withdrew from the Challenge Cup due to concerns over player welfare, citing insufficient preparation time following a mandated non-contact period for amateur clubs. This decision underscores the club's prioritization of player safety and well-being. en.wikipedia.org+2loverugbyleague.com+2loverugbyleague.com+2

Wath Brow Hornets continue to be a pillar of amateur rugby league, balancing competitive ambition with a strong commitment to community and player development.