PLAYERS and managers of an amateur rugby side are celebrating after winning a national competition by attracting the support of 40,000 people on Facebook.

The Dearne Valley Bulldogs won the contest to find the UK's most dedicated amateur side.

They won a £1,000 sponsorship deal with menswear brand Jacamo and a training session with Super League champions Wigan Warriors.

It will give the club a much-needed boost and the cash will help to repair its club house.

The team was nominated by long-time fan Leslie Binns.

He said: "Dearne Valley Bulldogs aren't just a rugby club but the epicentre of our community spirit. Having not only risen through the ranks of the Pennine League, it has shown what a group of like-minded, hard-working and selfless individuals can do for the local community."

The team's coach Duncan Henderson, said: "We're delighted to win the competition; the money will be used to improve our facilities. We're also really looking forward to training with Wigan Warriors, who will no doubt help to develop our performance and help us towards a successful season."