Bramley rumours are just that, says chairman

Rumours of the community owned Bramley Buffaloes entering Championship 1 are just that according to club chairman Martyn Cheney.

Speaking exclusively to lasttackle.com Martyn commented: “We have noted with interest and no little surprise the rumours of our possible entry into Championship one and the subsequent re-emergence of semi-professional rugby league in West Leeds after a ten year absence.

“It has and always will be our aim to get Bramley back into the top tiers of the game where our loyal army of supporters believe we rightfully belong and, whilst National League 3 and its successor league have provided us with fantastic memories and experiences, there’s no doubt that we feel the Amber and Black should progress upwards.

“When the former Bramley club went out of existence in 1999 the supporters got together and worked tirelessly for four years to rebuild the Bramley name before we entered National League three in 2003. This followed two failed bids to re-enter what was then the Northern Ford Premiership.

“Our initial bid involved a ground share with Farsley Celtic but this was knocked back due to the facilities. In the intervening years facilities at Throstle Nest have improved due to their own progress up the football pyramid and we have followed their recent fortunes and troubles closely however I can confirm that no discussions are taking place with the Conference North club at this stage and we continue to play our home games at the excellently appointed Arthur Miller Stadium, home of Stanningley.

“All of the committee, players and supporters of Bramley Buffaloes have been magnificent over the past few years without any financial reward and without their backing we would not be in this position. We’ve built a unique club here created on the foundations of those people that matter most in the game…the supporters and long may that continue.

“Should anything change in the foreseeable future with regard to the RFL’s plans then we will have to respond accordingly but we are currently focusing our efforts on securing a fifth consecutive Grand Final appearance starting with Saturday’s play off at Stanningley with Huddersfield Rangers,” added Martyn.

Rumours have been circulating in recent days that Bramley’s inclusion in Championship 1 could earn a reprieve for Leigh Centurions – who were relegated from the Championship just over a week ago.

The Centurions have already made a number of big name signings for next season, including coach Ian Millward and Super League ever-present Robbie Paul.