Dales Council League First Division club Hepworth and Idle will switch to the Craven League in 2014.

Their application to join the league was approved 21-7 by club representatives but an approach from Bradford Mutual Sunday School League club Cross Roads-Daisy Hill was overwhelmingly rejected 22-3.

Hepworth & Idle secretary Philip Robinson, who presented their case, said: “We run two teams and we are successful on and off the field, while our clubhouse is one of the best in the Dales Council League, including changing rooms with showers. We have levelled the slope on the ground at a cost of £11,000, hosted the league’s second-team cup final last year and won the umpires’ fair play award.

“We are trying to improve year by year.”

David Allen (Bingley Congs) asked how many clubs would be promoted and relegated next season to take into account Hepworth & Idle joining the league.

Secretary Ann Coe said this would be on the agenda at the next meeting as it was important for everyone to know exactly what they were playing for next season.

Mrs Coe said the Yorkshire stage of the Tour de France cycle race on the weekend of July 5 and 6 would affect travel within the league.

It was agreed to cancel all games that weekend and extend the 2014 season further into September.

Umpires fees are to rise to £27.50, with £55 being paid if there is only one umpire.

It was decided to hold the league dinner at Rolls Royce, Barnoldswick on Friday, October 18.