Darlington Mowden Park can confirm that all of their 2017/18 home league fixtures will kick off at an earlier time of 2pm. The move comes as the club’s Ladies team, the DMP Sharks, embark on their first season as part of the new Elite Women’s Competition. DMP Director of Rugby Danny Brown said: “The reason we have changed the kick off times by 1 hour is to accommodate and integrate the DMP Sharks as they enter a new era in the Premiership women’s competition, where we will look to host double headers here at the stadium. Fixtures for the double headers are due out as soon as the Women’s Fixtures are confirmed.”

The RFU’s new women’s competition is set to be made up of 10 teams and will begin in September of this year. Brown went on to say: “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the Mowden Family closer and allow spectators a greater experience. I hope everyone understands the reasons behind this slight change and that everyone supports both the men’s and women’s game this coming season”.

An earlier start time of 2pm is also in place for the 1st XVs pre-season home game against Watsonians on Saturday 19th August. Mowden’s league campaign will kick off on Saturday 2nd September at home to Loughborough. Supporters can join the Mowden Family for the 2017/18 season by purchasing their Mowden Memberships here

Stay tuned for more news on the Sharks and the new competition coming very soon.