Lowestoft & Yarmouth have decided to pull out of London Three Eastern Counties and accept relegation to Eastern Counties One.

L&Y had lost all 16 of their fixtures so far this season and were unable to field a team for their trip to Holt back in October.

They were due to host Holt on Saturday but have made the decision after discussion with the Eastern Counties Rugby Union.

In a statement on the club's website chairman Russ Wilkinson said: 'I have met with the league committee of Eastern Counties and the London Leagues to discuss, in their words, the 'fragile position' of our club.

'Having given careful consideration to the proposals presented to me and with consideration to the committee's discussions on Monday evening I have made the decision to voluntarily withdraw the first XV from the league and accept relegation to Eastern Counties One without penalty next season.

'Whilst I realise this is a significant step to take, I consider it to be the only sensible option to allow the club to rebuild and return to it proud winning ways and above all protect its players!

'As a club we will now concentrate on fulfilling our development 15 fixtures and if achievable friendly fixtures with the remaining first XV club games.'

L&Y's second XV are due to travel to the UEA on Saturday for their latest Greene King IPA Eastern Counties Two North fixture.