London Broncos head coach Tony Rea welcomed his team and a group of loyal supporters to their new home The Hive after agreeing a ground share with Barnet FC.

The club had been in danger of going into administration since leaving its former ground The Stoop, but players were in high spirits as they took part in a training session at the Camrose Avenue stadium today.

Mr Rea addressed the players and fans who had come to show their support for the move, admitting there were times when he thought it was "all over” for the team.

He said: “We lost some staff and players, and it was really hard. It’s only been a month that we’ve genuinely been alive.”

But with a new place to call home, and 22 players signed, Mr Rea promised supporters they were a “hungry club” ready to give it their all in the coming season.

Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous was also on hand to welcome the squad calling it “an absolute pleasure” to work alongside such “fine gentlemen”.

Broncos are due to play their first home game against Salford on Saturday, February 22.

Speaking to the Times Series, Mr Rea said: “It’s really great to be here. The Hive is a really modern facility where we can build a strong foundation for our club that’s powerful going forward this season.

“I think people in the community will enjoy our presence here. We’re a family friendly club and I hope residents will come and see what we’re about.”

London Broncos fans were also keen to garner support from people living in the area.

Mark Reynolds, 53, of Elephant and Castle, said: “We didn’t even know if we’d have a team a few weeks ago so to be here is great. From what we’ve seen of it so far, the stadium seems really good.

“Hopefully we can get the local community to come and watch the matches with us – it’s a very family orientated game and the entertainment is second to none.”

Darren Wicks who had travelled from Kent to watch his son, London Bronco player Joel, said: “I think The Hive’s brilliant, and hopefully we’ll get some support from the local residents. We really do need to get some more people here.”