CHANGES are being made to how Challenge Cup Final day unfolds at Wembley Stadium.

Not only is the competition's showpiece event being held a month earlier than has become usual on July 18, there will also be a change to the order of events.

The AB Sundecks 1895 Cup Final – the culmination of the knock-out competition for non-Super League clubs – will now take place as a curtain-raiser to the main event and will kick off 12 noon, with the Challenge Cup Final kicking off as usual at 3pm.

The year seven boys final of the Warner Champion Schools competition – the traditional Wembley curtain-raiser which was won by Great Sankey High School last year – maintains its place on the hallowed turf and will now have a morning kick-off.

Warrington Guardian:

Great Sankey High School celebrate winning last year's Champion Schools year seven final at Wembley. Picture by Mike Boden

"We’ve listened to the views of clubs and supporters in working to change the kick-off time of the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup," RFL chief commercial officer Mark Foster said.

"We’re grateful for the co-operation of Wembley Stadium in allowing us to bring the kick-off forward, and we hope that change will be welcomed – and ensure a suitable atmosphere in the stadium when the winners receive their trophy.”

The inaugural 1895 Cup Final last year kicked off after the conclusion of The Wire's Challenge Cup Final win over St Helens, with Sheffield Eagles beating Widnes Vikings.