THE official launch of the fourth Northern Ford Premiership was taking place in Huddersfield today.

Representatives from the 19 clubs - including York Wasps - were at the McAlpine Stadium to celebrate the start of the new campaign.

The launch saw the official confirmation of Northern Ford as the Premiership sponsors for the fourth season after there had been rumours they had pulled out.

While the Wasps unveiled their new-look for the season, the club are offering their loyal band of followers the chance to meet the new faces on Thursday night.

The Wasps have been working overtime during the close season to rebuild their squad after the horrors of last year.

Aussie Leo Epifania has come in as the club's new coach, while a new and old players have been recruited - including former Kiwi Test player Peter Edwards and Leeds Rhinos starlet Jon Liddell.

And on Thursday, fans are invited along to meet those who will be pulling on the Wasps' jersey for the 2001/2 campaign.

Those interested are advised to turn up at the club's Huntington Stadium at 8.30pm for a 9pm start.

Updated: 11:45 Tuesday, November 27, 2001