NORTH Wales rugby will revert to their traditional league format for 2010/11.
Last season saw second division clubs split into regional groups of six, with the top three of each progressing to a unified second division and the remaining clubs dropping into a unified third division.
However the format proved unpopular among a majority of clubs and next season will see a 12-club second division formed on a home and away basis.
Denbigh were relegated from the first division, with Bethesda going in the opposite direction, while the league also welcomed newly elected members Abergele.
The league will continue to be home to Montgomeryshire’s clubs with the opening weekend on September 4 throwing together two local derbies.
Llanidloes entertain Newtown, while there is also a local derby at Maesydre where hosts Welshpool host COBRA.
Machynlleth complete Montgomeryshire interest and start at Wrexham.
Welshpool RFC spokesman Gary Williams said: “The choice was put to the clubs at the annual meeting and the vast majority preferred a return to the traditional format.
“It was felt that it was a more varied and competitive league and we are looking forward to it already.”
COBRA spokesman Trevor Jones added: “With Denbigh and Abergele joining the league we can look forward to renewing our rivalries with them as well as derbies against our Montgomeryshire rivals.”
Meanwhile a new third division is also in the process of being formed.