PEEBLES have been pitted against local rivals Biggar in a mouthwatering opening day National Division Two clash at the Gytes on September 3.

The Pees were relegated from Division 1 last season, despite a valiant comeback in the second half of the campaign and they will be aiming to bounce back at the first attempt.

Away games at GHK and Ardrossan are sandwiched in between a home clash with Kelso on September 24.

Adam Moffat, Director of Rugby for Peebles said: “It will be a hotly contested league, of that that there is do doubt.

“After a disappointing 2016 season from a results perspective, there were still a lot of positives to be taken from the style of play and the we tries scored. The younger lads will be better for getting that season under their belts.

“With the combination of experience and promising youth players that we have we will be looking at being extremely competitive. We'll be aiming to win the league.”

Club President Robert Hogarth hopes the town will continue to show its dedicated support and highlights the bond forged by having many players at the club who have come through the youth ranks.

He said: “The club is a big part of the community here in Peebles. We have an amazing youth program that we have invested a lot of time and effort – it works - so many of the first team have come from there.”

The club is introducing a family membership for the first time, as part of a wider attempt to attract all age ranges to the Gytes.

Hogarth said: “We want to encourage mums and dads to get involved and as well as getting the kids playing, bring them down to the Gytes to roar the lads on. Let's make it a season to remember.”