There might be no rugby being played at the Vale of Lune for the moment, but off the field members have been busy rejuvenating and upgrading the somewhat tired looking clubhouse.

Opportunistically the club utilized the nationally enforced lockdown period, to undertake the works to the public 'County' bar and the main function room which had last been fully refurbished in 2016. Volunteers also took the opportunity to clean up the outside decking area and update the club’s entire tele-communications system.

The volunteer team was led by Vale’s Estates Manager David Kendall who was supported by a team of very skilled club members. As a result of their efforts, the club’s County Bar has been completely transformed. The work was done for the cost of materials only and Vale president is wholesome in her praise for team.

She said: “Vale has always had a great reputation for its volunteers and I can’t thank enough the team that worked tirelessly every weekend through lockdown. It has been a real labour of love and is a testament to the amazing club members, supporters and sponsors we have at the Vale.”

Now Vale are hoping the new look clubhouse and the extra room that has been created will help the club to become a social hub for people living in and around the area. Sarah explained:” Initially we are open to the public every evening from Wednesdays to Sundays and from lunchtime at weekends. We are hoping to encourage people to book us for all sorts of private functions.

People who worked and sponsored the refurbishment included Dave Kendall Building & Joinery, Scott Evans (Colts Manager) Baines Plumbing & Heating, AJB Electrical, SJB Tiling, Carl Ferguson Painting & Decorating, Vincent Mangan Painting & Decorating, Broadoak Home & Garden, CEF Electrical, Suzanne Robinson (Club Treasurer), Jack Ferguson (Director of Rugby), Steve Swarbrick (Chairman of Ground), Ruth Bradburn (Secretary), and members, James Robinson, Aaron & Suzanne Melville, Stuart Bradburn, Peter Robinson, Garry Pennington, Dave Walker, Les Houghton.

Vale was also helped by a Just Giving Page that raised vital cash for the work.

Caption for the tape cutting pictures: from left, Jack Ferguson, Director of Rugby, Dave Kendall, Estates Manager, Sarah Baines, President, Ruth Bradburn, Secretary.