NEWLY-crowned London Division 1 champions Havant have made an initial approach to United Services Portsmouth with a view to a club merger ahead of the 2002-2003 season.

Commodore Jeff Blackett, an honorary life member of United Services and former chairman of the Royal Navy Rugby Union, has confirmed the rumour, which surfaced over the weekend.

The Commodore, in the news recently for his chairmanship of the disciplinary panel that sentenced England skipper Martin Johnson to a three-week ban for punching, said that Havant had only approached him informally at present. But a meeting between club representatives, planned for last Thursday, was postponed.

Blackett said, "Havant have spoken to me about a merger. They want to join up and use United Services' facilities for the National League progress for next season.

"Havant have been keen to leave their Hooks Lane home for purpose-built facilities but seemingly are seeking the best alternative. It is envisaged they would keep their own ground, while using Burnaby Road for the National Three South fixtures.

"However, I feel the timescale maybe too tight for it to happen in time for next season, which starts in August, and there is the situation with the ground at Burnaby Road being MoD property. There is lots to discuss and much to consider."

A similar situation arose in 1992 when the two Portsmouth clubs almost joined forces, until a financial wrangle scuppered the merger.