Higginshaw RLFC are celebrating after receiving the news that they have been awarded £40,835 of National Lottery funding to assist in the development and renovation of their facilities.

The club will receive the windfall from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities Fund and it will be put towards a planned £63,000 improvement project at their St Stephens Street base. The work is needed to help the club cater for its expanding youth and open age sections, plus usage by a host of community groups.

“We are delighted to have secured this investment, which means we can upgrade the quality of our premises to match the quality of our coaches,” said Higginshaw chairman Alan Howarth.

“It is the cornerstone of our strategy to have an outstanding club as part of the 2012 Olympics legacy.”

Secretary John Mellor added; “On top of the money awarded we have got £10,000 of in kind match funding already committed, however, we are still looking for further sponsorship to assist us increase the scope of the project and to make up the shortfall. That could be skips, building materials or volunteer help to assist with stripping out the old structure to help save costs.”

Local MP Debbie Abrahams was also delighted to hear the news.

“This investment by Sport England into Higginshaw RLFC is fantastic news.”

“Oldham has always had a strong Rugby League tradition but this money is an investment in young people for today and the future; we’ll see top class players training in top class facilities.”