The Canterbury shirt features the commemorative 125th Anniversary crest for the first time, with the gold monkey emblem sublimated onto the breast of the jersey – a unique element for the upcoming campaign.

The design is firmly rooted in the Club's history and takes inspiration from previous shirts, returning to black & white hoops and framed by a classic buttoned collar.

Other key features include flat, reinforced seams to reduce abrasion and Vapodri Technology which provides a quick dry fabric for ultimate performance.

The shirt is scheduled to be worn for the first time in the Durham Northumberland Two fixture with Sunderland at Mayfield Park on Saturday 1st September.

Hartlepool 1st XV Captain Andrew Small said: “There is a huge sense of pride that comes with wearing the Hartlepool shirt and it is always an honour.

“Our 125th Anniversary is a great occasion for us all to celebrate our heritage and this shirt really reflects that, especially as it features the anniversary crest. As a squad we are really looking forward to the forthcoming season.”

Director of Rugby, Liam Lester, added: "When we settled on the idea of producing a commemorative shirt to recognise the 125th Anniversary we delved into the archives and the photographs that adorn the walls of the clubhouse to look for inspiration.

"Having consulted with various members it became clear very quickly that a return to the classic black & white hoops and monkey emblem would be a popular and appropriate foundation for the design.

"We would like to thank Sportsworld Rugby for their support and Andrew Kennedy, of Reactive Design, for creating the new anniversary logos."

A replica jersey for supporters to wear when cheering the team on will also be available to buy with full details set to be announced shortly.

Write Your Name Into History

We are offering supporters, members and local businesses the opportunity to 'write their name into history' by having their name or message embroidered onto one of the limited edition playing shirts.

For example 'Sponsored By', 'Donated By' or 'In Memory Of'.

The donor will also be recognised alongside their chosen shirt number in the 2018/19 Match Programme.

For more information please email: hartlepoolrugbyclub@outlook.com

Would you like to play for Hartlepool Rugby Club? We are recruiting now for the 2018/19 season. All new players are welcome - for more information please email: hartlepoolrugbyclub@outlook.com