Norfolk has a new rugby league team to call its own after the Breckland Spartans were formed.

Chairman Daniel Spencer and player-coach Marc Lockwood got their venture up and running in little more than a month and have already amassed a healthy squad of 24 players. That positive start continued when they were accepted into the East Rugby League having agreed a deal to play their home matches at Watton.

Lockwood, captain of rugby union Swaffham's first team until he left the club last week due to an internal dispute, said: 'From a rugby point of view, my passion has always been league. It's what I've played the most and been most interested in.

'It's easier to switch from union to league than it is league to union in terms of the laws of the game, although I think league is much more physically demanding. We're all really keen to get going now.'

Spartans will play 12 competitive matches during the summer in the entry level of East League – two tiers below where King's Lynn Black Knights ply their trade. Lockwood will take his squad to Southend on May 2 for a 'nines tournament' as they gear up for their first season together.

'It's been encouraging so far and it's another something new to focus on,' added Lockwood, currently sidelined with a torn bicep.

'I think everybody will benefit from it as it's a summer sport in this part of the country. There's a lot of people who end up playing cricket but this is something else, especially for guys who just love rugby and are looking for a game outside of the union season.'

The Spartans' manager's former club Swaffham were relegated from Greene King Eastern Counties Division One on Saturday after a 17th defeat of a torrid campaign. They visit Wymondham in their penultimate fixture of the term tomorrow. Same-league Wisbech host Woodbridge as they look to kick on and secure a top-half finish in the 12-team table.

Higher-level London Three North-East West Norfolk are still in with a massive shout of clinching sensational back-to-back promotions. They are level with second-placed Canatabrigian – but behind on points difference – with just two matches left. West host Old Brentwoods this weekend while Cantabs travel to Beccles.

Spartans are looking for sponsors and committee members to help take the club forward. Contact Lockwood on 07761053738 if you can offer any support.