SOUHTAMPTON'S only gay rugby union team has made history by joining the first inclusive leagues in the south of England.

Wessex Wyverns RFC, which trains at Millbrook Rugby Club, will join eight other teams to take part in the historic tournament.

The creation of the league will back the efforts the clubs have taken to inspire gay men from all backgrounds to get involved in the sport in an encouraging and supportive environment.

Teams Birmingham Bulls, Bristol Bisons, Cardiff Lions, Northampton Outlaws and Kings Cross Steelers will join newly formed squads Swansea Vikings and Reading Renegades, as well as Wyverns to try and win the inaugural league.

It is being run in association with International Gay Rugby, an organisation that provides opportunities for members of the LGBT community to compete in rugby through tolerant and accepting clubs and teams.

Wessex Wyverns club president Tom Bassett said: "The IGR league provides the opportunity for inclusive teams to build on their skills within an environment of like-minded players.

"Not only do we get the chance to play a fantastic sport but also to network with great teams throughout the south."

Swansea Vikings social secretary Sam Meredith added: "We are very excited to join the IGR Southern League. We’re looking forward to reinforcing friendships with the teams and creating new connections across the country."

Wyverns will be hosting a series of sessions across the summer at locations in Bournemouth, Southampton and Portsmouth to give first timers to a try of the sport.

Many of the team had never played any sport until their very first training session.

The team will also be represented at Pride festivals along the south coast this summer including, Bournemouth, Southampton, Isle of Wight, and Portsmouth.