A RUGBY Union club has received a major boost after being chosen to become a Legacy Centre for the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Richmondshire Rugby Union Football Club also received a grant of £95,000 to contribute towards the construction of its new clubhouse, and will enable to club to enhance its facilities to provide a resource for the whole community.

The Rugby Football Union has committed to a £10m investment which will create a network of more than 500 Lead Up and Legacy Centres, aimed at increasing rugby club participation throughout England.

“The new facilities will improve the quality of the rugby experience for everyone using the site and provide more playing opportunities, especially for local people in the 14-24 age-group,” said RFU area facilities manager Alex Bowden.

“This investment will also support the club’s financial sustainability leading into the Rugby World Cup and will create a focus for England 2015 and a lasting rugby union legacy for rugby in the community.

“The clubhouse project will help the club raise its profile and encourage more players, volunteers and spectators to share the special values that distinguish the sport.”

Richmondshire RUFC chairman Paul Rhodes said: “We are delighted that our project has won approval. We will now have some of the best facilities in the area that local people from Richmond and Catterick can use during the week.

“The 2015 Rugby World Cup will inspire a new wave of people of all ages to become involved in rugby and this RFU investment will help our club to be even better equipped to welcome newcomers.”

If you are interested in being part of rugby in Richmondshire contact the club via Dena Dalton on 07880-675014.