A SCHOOLBOY rugby fixture dating back to 1879 has been suspended.

Christ College, Brecon have faced local rivals Llandovery at rugby for 125 years in what is one of the oldest schoolboy rugby matches in Britain.

But in a joint statement both schools have announced the senior first XV fixture between them is being suspended on safety grounds.

Head of Christ College Emma Taylor said: "Since the advent of the professional game in rugby, the two schools have taken different routes and it has been increasingly difficult to ensure a safe and competitive game at 1st XV level as a result. It has therefore been decided by both schools to suspend the fixtures in senior rugby (U18s) for the time being.

"Both schools are committed to reviewing this decision regularly and if the day comes when the 1st XV fixture can once more be played in a way that is both competitive and safe the match may become a part of the calendar once more."

Llandovery has enjoyed a 15 year unbeaten run in the fixture but the clash has maintained its popularity at both schools, and is a focus of a number of sporting competitions between them and a highlight of the social calendar for students.

The statement said rugby fixtures in younger age groups and fixtures at all levels in other sports will continue to be played.