A Wigan rugby club is calling on the community and businesses to support a major clubhouse redevelopment
A shout-out for help is made by a Wigan amateur rugby league club as it launches an ambitious overhaul bid for its clubhouse
Orrell St James ARLFC is calling on businesses, charities and the wider community for support as the club prepares to undertake a major new-build development aimed at improving facilities for members and the wider Wigan community.
The ambitious project will see vital improvements made to the club's buildings and facilities, helping Orrell St James continue to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for children, young people, families, volunteers and community members.
However, delivering those improvements will create an immediate challenge.
As part of the development, an existing section of the clubhouse containing the club's canteen, kitchen and toilet facilities will need to be removed, meaning temporary facilities will be essential while construction work takes place.
The club is therefore appealing for help to source three temporary modular units, which would allow essential catering, toilet and welfare facilities to remain available throughout the work.
Grassroots sport provides children and young people with opportunities to be active, make friends, develop confidence and become part of something positive within their local community.
That can be particularly important for children and families from less advantaged backgrounds, where access to organised activities, sporting opportunities and supportive community environments may otherwise be limited.
The club wants the new development to build upon that role and create facilities capable of supporting future generations of players, families, volunteers and the wider community.
But while the long-term development is exciting, the club needs help to get through the temporary period while the work is carried out.
The club is hoping the appeal will reach businesses and organisations across Wigan and the wider North West, particularly those involved in modular buildings, construction, groundwork, transport and community projects.
The club would welcome conversations with companies that may be able to provide modular units through a temporary loan, reduced-cost hire, sponsorship or donation.
The club is also keen to hear from charitable organisations, community funds and grant providers that may be able to support the temporary facilities required during redevelopment.
Sometimes the most valuable contribution could simply be an introduction.
A club spokesperson said: “The aim is simple: improve the club without losing the facilities needed to continue supporting the people who use it.
“For a grassroots organisation, maintaining suitable toilets, welfare facilities and somewhere to provide food and refreshments is fundamental to being able to host children, families, players, officials and visiting teams.
“The temporary modular units would provide that bridge between the existing facilities and the future development, enabling rugby and community activity to continue while the club invests in its long-term future.
“Orrell St James is hoping the strength of the local community, together with the generosity and expertise of businesses in the area, can help make that happen.
“The club is asking businesses, organisations and individuals to share the appeal even if they cannot directly contribute.
“One introduction to the right company, charity or organisation could make an enormous difference.”
Anyone who can provide temporary modular units, sponsorship, funding, discounted hire, services or simply a useful contact or introduction is encouraged to get in touch.