Bury Broncos chairman Ryan Lewis believes that the club are perfectly equipped to celebrate 120 years of rugby league in the borough ahead of their North West Men’s Division Two season.

After two promotions on the bounce, the Broncos' first team finished comfortably in mid-table in 2015, earning plaudits off the field too.

The club won the Steve Prescott award in recognition of work done in the community, and Lewis feels the borough has a club to be proud of, on and off the field.

“It’s a special year – a really exciting time,” he said.

“Rugby league has never been a massive sport in the borough when you compare it with other towns in the North West, but we’re catching up, slowly but surely.

“It’s amazing to think that the club’s been around less than 10 years, and we’re the only club in the North West to be putting out three teams on a semi-regular basis.

“We’re one of the youngest squads in the division and it’s all about building that. It’s a steady team with a sprinkling of stardust as well.”

Coached by Liam Owen – with Ian Duncan taking charge of the second team – the Broncos have recruited well ahead of the new campaign, which begins on Saturday with a cup game against Blackpool Scorpions.

Lewis is only 29, and that youthful feeling has spread from the boardroom, with the club adding the likes of centre Harry Coleman from St Helens, Adam Grundy and Kiwi Brad Cave.

The ‘A’ team, who will line up in Division Four, face a number of derbies against the likes of Bolton Mets and Westhoughton Lions, something Lewis is relishing.

“Everyone’s champing at the bit to get out there,” he said.

“In one of our games the oldest member of the team was 25, so we’ve got a good group of young lads who will grow and grow.

“Last season we didn’t have many derbies but this year we’ve got plenty to look forward to.

“These are clubs with a lot of good people that we have got to know through the years. It’ll be good to come face to face with them and renew our friendly rivalry.”

This Saturday the club is also staging a taster session for women, at St Phillips High School between 1-3pm.

“It’s really exciting – it’s a good opportunity for people to give it a go,” said Lewis.

“We’ve got seven or eight ladies who wanted to set up a team, and we’re giving an opportunity for people to come down.”