The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed the Newcastle Falcons will be promoted into the Premiership next season.

Falcons have been playing in the Championship and were 18 points clear at the top of the table, winning all 15 matches they had played.

The top tier of women's rugby, Premier 15s, has been ruled null and void as there is no promotion or relegation in the league.

Saracens women had not lost a match all season and had a two point lead over rivals Harlequins women.

In a statement the RFU said: "Following the early end of the rugby season in England as a result of COVID-19, The RFU is today announcing the final league positions for the Greene King IPA Championship, Tyrrells Premier 15s and men's and women's community game.

"Proposals from the RFU governance committee to conclude the season for those leagues at both professional and community level were yesterday ratified by the RFU Council. 

"It was agreed that final standings for the Greene King IPA Championship and men's and women's community game would be calculated on a best playing record formula, maintaining promotion and relegation for those leagues. The Tyrrells Premier 15s season has been declared null and void as there is no promotion or relegation in this league."

As a result of the salary cap scandal, defending champions Saracens will be relegated to the Championship.

Second place in the men's Championship, Ealing Tailfinders, told the Rugby Paper recently they would pursue legal action if Falcons were promoted ahead of them.