A STATE of the art £200,000 training facility aimed at helping players has been opened at Wath Brow Hornets RLFC almost a year to the day work began on the site.

The new training barn will provide superb new indoor facilities for players in all age groups at the successful rugby league club, as well as delivering wider benefits to the local community.

First suggested four years ago, the training barn was first made possible with a grant from the Rugby League World Cup 2021 InspirationALL legacy initiative, whose CreatedBy Capital programme is focused on improving existing facilities or creating new ones with the aim of building community hubs and encouraging more people to play rugby league, as well as delivering a wider social impact to the local residents of communities in which they are based.

Head coach Ian Rooney said: "This was made possible through financial support from the Rugby League World Cup fund, Cumbria County Council, Copeland Council, Cleator Moor Town Council and the Postcode Lottery."

The new purpose built 25m x 17m indoor training facility has an artificial playing surface, and was constructed to provide a new space for all Wath Brow Hornets’ teams and age groups, and will provide more opportunities for young players to learn skills in a secure environment, and for senior players to continue training in any conditions. The facility will also act as a community exercise and fitness space, hosting daily sessions, and was designed with a low pitched roof to minimise any impact on local residents.

The opening was well attended by players of all ages, parents,club officials and supporters.

Committee Member Martin Brough thanked all those who had been involved in the development

He said: "Very special thanks to all those whose skills and dedication has built this brilliant facility including RE Buildings, Tony Stamper, SIS Flooring, Centurian Sports, John Jackson, Robert Spivey, Ian Caddy, Peter Bradley & of course our main contractor, the absolutely fantastic and dedicated team at William King Construction who have delivered the project to the highest of standards."