Corby Rugby Club ready to rebuild after storm devastation

Repairs are underway on the roof of a rugby club that suffered £30,000 worth of damage after Storm Ciara peeled the roof felt off the flat-roofed facility letting torrential rain cascade into the bar and changing rooms.

It was feared that the devastation to the building, that had not been insured, would result in the club folding, but members of Corby Rugby Club have set themselves a target to get their team clubhouse back up and running by their next home fixture.

The team and supporters met last night to plan fundraising events to pay for roofing repairs that have already begun.

Martin Drummond, player and club treasurer, said: "The clubhouse is going to be watertight with repairs starting on the roof. We have set ourselves a target to get the players' lounge ready in time for a week on Saturday for our match against Huntingdon.

"We're reaching out to the public and businesses to help us restore our clubhouse.

"We have plenty of offers from past and present players, family, other rugby clubs and members of the public to do the plastering, rewiring and rebuilding but what we really need is the materials sourced as cheaply as possible."

A roofing company has already started replacing the ruined roof felt ripped off by the high winds on Sunday night. (February 9). The club will be paying the firm in instalments giving them time to raise the funds required.

On Saturday, March 14, Corby Town Rugby Club will host a charity rugby tournament and family fun day with neighbouring Corby Town Football Club hosting a fundraising football tournament at Steel Park.

Prizes have already been donated for a money-making raffle including from the county's biggest sports clubs - Northampton Town FC and Northampton Saints Rugby Club, and six bands have confirmed that they will play at the fundraiser.

Mr Drummond is hoping that they might benefit from a fund set up by Sport England to support clubs hit by Storm Ciara.

He said: "I truly, truly believe we'll get to a place where we will be back where we belong.

"What we need is for the community to come together so please come along and support the fun day."

The club's Just Giving page has so far raised more than £1,800.