OTLEY will be playing in front of a bumper crowd on Saturday when they face old adversaries at a new venue.

They face National League Two North derby rivals Harrogate, who will officially open their Rudding Lane venue having moved from Claro Road.

A crowd of more than 1,000 is expected, and there will be a short opening ceremony beforehand and the unveiling of a plaque by Yorkshire RFU president Brian Umpleby, followed by a blessing led by Rev John Smith.

Despite being affected by holidays and injuries, Otley have had two good pre-season outings, beating National League Three outfits Rossendale (away) 34-28 and Hinckley (home) 31-14 , and director of rugby Peter Clegg has had two training sessions to work out Otley's best permutations.

There is healthy competition at Cross Green from front row to full back, and scrum half Stephen Depledge struck up a fine understanding last week with new fly half Joshua Cruise, whose passing and kicking from hand was classy, and he also had 100 per cent success from the kicking tee.

Depledge, however, will be kept on his toes by Gareth Newman, a scrum half who grabbed a hat-trick playing on the wing against Hinckley.

Other activities on the day on Saturday include performances from the Harrogate Harmony Barbershop Chorus, as well as a selection of food stalls, including a hog roast, and an outdoor bar.

Harrogate RUFC chairman James Smithies said: “What better way to welcome people to the new club ground than with a local derby which is set to be full of excitement?

“It has taken the club 15 years to finally move from our old home at Claro Road, where we spent a very happy 119 years.

"This first match marks a significant milestone in Harrogate Rugby Club’s history. We are very proud of the new clubhouse and grounds and we look forward to welcoming Otley here on Saturday.”

Admission is £10 for adults, including a programme, but is free for under-16s.

The following Saturday, Cross Green will once again be in party mood when Leicester Lions are the visitors, as September 12 is the actual date the club was formed 150 years ago.

Junior teams will be in action beforehand and will form a guard of honour as the teams take the field for what will hopefully be the start of another chapter in a rugby club that has more than played its part in the town's fame.