The Political Animals RLFC has announced Ladbrokes as its new main sponsor.

The club, which comprises politicians from all levels and all major political parties, plays charitable and representative sides and counts Peers, MPs and Councillors amongst its members.

Ladbrokes sponsorship enables the club to play games and provide opportunities for more politicians to experience rugby league. With over 2,700 betting outlets and over 800,000 active online customers, Ladbrokes is a world leading betting and gaming company, employing roughly 15,000 employees.

As a result of Ladbrokes' support, the first ever Parliamentary Touch tournament will take place on 7th September, and provide MPs and Peers with an opportunity to try a non-contact version of the game. A number of rugby league "legends" will also be on hand to offer Parliamentarians expert advice.

Making the announcement was Club Captain and Member of Parliament for Leeds North West, Greg Mulholland MP. He said: "The Political Animals welcome Ladbrokes as our major sponsor. The support from Ladbrokes, who are already big supporters of rugby league, will allow us to do our bit to promote the sport as the UK's politicians rugby league team".

"This support will allow is to better connect with even more politicians in the UK and abroad to spread our passion for rugby league, allowing more people to experience the game, and to see what the game does for communities across the country".

Member of Parliament for Dewsbury, Paula Sherriff MP, added: "Rugby league is a community game, and brings great benefits to my constituents in Dewsbury. I hope that Ladbrokes' support will allow the Political Animals to showcase the sport to even more politicians across the UK, and I look forward to taking part in the touch tournament with colleagues in September".

Dan Poulter MP, Member of Parliament for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, also welcomed the news. "I'm very happy that Ladbrokes have agreed to sponsor the Political Animals. Ladbrokes do a lot to support rugby league across the country, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to pull on a shirt for the Animals very soon, and help to promote the game".

Grainne Hurst, Director of Corporate Affairs at Ladbrokes, commented: "Ladbrokes are delighted to support the Political Animals. Rugby league is a key sport for Ladbrokes, and one that is of great interest to many of our customers. As one of the UK's largest bookmakers, Ladbrokes are proud of our contribution to communities and local economies, providing jobs, training opportunities and a commitment to responsible gambling".