Worcester Warriors move kick-off to 2pm and Leicester Tigers update

Warriors have worked closely with the local authority and a private company to grit the stadium complex and make all access roads and footpaths safe for supporters. Ground staff worked through heavy snow and difficult conditions throughout Tuesday and Wednesday to take covers off, clear snow and get the pitch protection dome up to protect the pitch. Hot air has been blowing onto the pitch for 48 hours and has left the pitch in great condition for the weekend. Kick off has been moved to 2.00pm in order to allow the public to vacate Sixways in daylight after the game and before the night time freeze begins in earnest. Tickets remain for the match, with supporters being asked to call the ticket office on 01905 454 183.

At Welford Road Leicester Tigers play London Wasps in the live Sky match. The match has already been moved from its original kick-off time of 5.30pm to 3.15pm to give the match a better chance of taking place.

Tigers ground staff have been working tirelessly to keep the stadium free of snow. A protective dome has been put up over the Welford Road pitch and warm air has been blown into this for most of the week.

Tigers' commercial partners came together to support the cause, with main sponsor Caterpillar supplying a telehandler to help remove more than 20 tonnes of snow from the pitch on Wednesday. Midland Rock and Bardon Aggregates also provided a truck to transport the snow to Saffron Lane Sports Centre where Leicester City Council has kindly allowed the club to deposit the snow in a corner of their car park.

For matchday, the club has arranged a workforce to be available to clear the stands and terraces ahead of the match and the City Council will be clearing the approaches and highways as Tigers defend their proud record of having lost only one home game to the weather in the last 10 years. Despite the cold weather, the game is approaching a 24,000 sell-out with limited tickets still available from the Tigers ticket office. Supporters can phone 0844 856 1880, book online or call in at Welford Road.

Phil Winstanley, Rugby Director at Premier Rugby added, "It was unfortunate to lose the Harlequins match earlier today, but having spoken to Leicester Tigers and Worcester Warriors, I have my fingers crossed that their matches will go ahead. Both clubs have worked exceptionally hard to improve the conditions at their grounds and they, their sponsors, their respective local authorities and the many volunteers who have helped them should be congratulated for the time and effort they have put in.

"With so little sport likely to take place this weekend, I hope that they will be rewarded with good matches and big crowds."

Guinness Premiership round 13 - surviving fixtures

Saturday 9th January 2010

2.00pm Worcester Warriors v London Irish, Sixways
3.15pm Leicester Tigers v London Wasps, Welford Road, Sky Sports 2