POWYS rugby clubs have welcomed the pending end of restrictions announced by the Welsh Government earlier today.

Wales will welcome back crowds to sporting events from January 21 after the Welsh Government announced the lifting of restrictions.

All sporting events in Wales have been held behind closed doors from Boxing Day due to the rise of coronavirus cases caused by the Omicron variant.

From Saturday a 500 people on outdoor events will be in place but crowds can return to sporting events from Friday, January 21 if case levels continue to fall.

Builth Wells coach Ben Duggan said: "It is very pleasing that we ll be able to play again with no restrictions and be able to have as many of our faithful supporters back on the Groe.

"Also financially the club has lost money due to no hospitality sponsors and less beer sales with the rule of six less appealing for a day out so we ll be looking forward to filling the club up again as soon as we can."

The sentiments were echoed by Admiral Division Two North side Newtown.

A spokesman said: "We obviously welcome the changes.

"The most important thing is that players and supporters are safe and we should be relieved that the relaxation in the rules indicate that the omicron wave is subsiding.

"We will be delighted to get back out on the field in front of our loyal supporters but also be able to once again enjoy the after match social with friends from our own and visiting clubs."