A NEW fundraising campaign has been launched to create a new community clubhouse.

Ponteland United Football Club and Ponteland Rugby Football Club have joined forces to launch an ambitious £1 million fundraising campaign to finance the clubhouse.

The rugby club is the only league rugby club in Northumberland to not have its own changing rooms and social areas, while Ponteland United FC are unable to progress further in the national leagues without the facilities.

Paul Brooks, Chairman of Ponteland United FC, added: "We have more than 50 teams playing league football from under 7's to adults but without this new facility further progression up the national leagues will not be possible.

"The scheme is not eligible for various national sporting funds, so we need to raise the entire amount ourselves. Please help us achieve our dream."

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A new joint company has been set up to manage the project, for which an architect has been commissioned and consultations started with county planning officials about the facility.

David Comeskey, President of Ponteland Rugby Club, said: "We want the whole Ponteland community to get behind us and support this ambitious initiative to create a superb new sports facility.

"We are the only rugby club in the county without our own changing rooms and social facilities and are determined to create a superb community sports venue."

The club would be located on land between the rugby and football pitches adjacent to Ponteland Leisure Centre on Callerton Lane, and house changing rooms, a social space, and viewing balcony.

It would be available for wider community use, as well as being open on matchdays, for training sessions, and club social events.

The clubs have now set up a Crowdfunder page for public donations and will carry out fundraising activities at events including the popular Ponteland Beer Festival, which is taking place on the rugby pitches from Friday, June 3 until Saturday, June 4.

Supporters can 'buy a brick' to be personalised and included in a display in the new clubhouse, and anyone donating £1,000 or more will be eligible for an Honorary Vice Presidency, with a season of VIP treatment at home and away fixtures.

To donate, go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/pont-clubhouse-appeal.

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