BACKERS who put their faith in an amateur rugby club have now witnessed the wealth of their community investment.

After 17 years without a permanent home, players who are part of Britain's biggest junior club trotted out of their showpiece clubhouse for the first time.

But before boot studs clattered along the luxury corridors of the newly-built £275,000 Sutton Park clubhouse in Manchester Road, Leigh, sponsors who have supported Leigh Rangers ARLFC got a look inside.

And they were amazed at the results of years of planning and months of hard labour as they toured the club, then enjoyed a buffet donated by next-door neighbours Waterfields bakery.

Formed in 1978, the club has now settled at Sutton Park - named after founder member, the late Terry Sutton.

Links with Rangers' sparse one-team beginnings continue with the naming of the club lounge after Tommy Disley, another founder sadly no longer on the team sheet.

Nowadays the Rangers line-up includes 207 registered players and teams ranging from U7s to U16s.

"It is the result of much time, effort and hard work by many people," said Rangers delighted chairman Trevor Barton.

"The project should have cost £272,000, but thanks to the generosity of sponsors and supporters it has not cost us that. We received a £60,000 grant from the Foundation for Sports and Arts and contributed our own money from fund-raising events.

"The rest has come from materials and labour donated by generous sponsors to whom we are forever grateful."

Rangers have produced a wealth of talent since 1978.

Stars of the big time who progressed through the club ranks include players like Dennis Betts, Darren Wright, Tommy Martyn, Ian Gildart, Scott Martin, Steve Blakeley and Craig Randall.

Ensuring things run smoothly on and off the field are Rangers' vice-chairman Cliff Littler, secretary Fred Barwick, treasurer Steve Donlan, coaching director Kevin Doorey, fund-raising and social organiser Alf Ridyard and building and ground maintenance organiser Mick Govin.

Chairman Barton takes great delight from seeing young and old alike become involved in a character-building community activity that is about more than just the sport of Rugby League or winning.

And local organisations can expect to share in Rangers' success once the clubhouse officially opens in June.

"We aim to offer the facilities for hire to local organisations at affordable rates," said club stalwart Nat Gilmore.

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