OTLEY Rugby Club is installing new safety measures to help protects its supporters and players, following a donation from a housebuilder.

The club is ‘trying’ to get ready for when it can reopen its gates, and will use the £1,000 funds, from Persimmon Homes West Yorkshire, to help ensure its facilities are ready.

Club Chairman, Paul Mackie said: “We have more than 250 children and over 100 adult players and provide an important community sporting facility.

“With the league season being cancelled and the clubhouse closed, the club has bridged the financial gap from the loss of income to maintain the grounds conditions and facilities.

“Earlier this year we ran a successful crowdfunding campaign to help cover the ongoing maintenance costs and began to install new hygiene safety measures.

“Persimmon Homes’ donation is going to ensure we have all the necessary safety and protection measures in place so we can safely welcome back our players and supporters.”

The Persimmon Homes Community Champions match-funding initiative seeks to support grassroots groups and charities in areas where the company is building.

Persimmon Homes West Yorkshire makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month.

Christopher Hull, managing director designate of Persimmon Homes West Yorkshire, said: “Grassroot sport is incredibly important for local communities and we are delighted to help Otley Rugby Club get ready to reopen.”

Visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity to apply for Community Champions funding.