MEMBERS of a village rugby club have launched a fund-raising campaign. Vigo RC, near Gravesend, is looking to raise £200,000 to convert its 20-year-old clubhouse.

It wants to enlarge its changing rooms, extend the bar, and make the facility suitable for the disabled.

In the hope of ensuring it isn’t one brick short of an extension, the club has launched a buy a brick scheme to involve as many people as possible. Bricks can be bought at £50 each and will be engraved with the donor’s name.

Helen Merchant, from the fund-raising committee, believes it is a way for people to cement their links with the club which was voted 'friendliest club’ by Kent referees last season.

Currently, the club has three playing sides, as well as women members and a junior section.

Mrs Merchant, whose husband and five sons have all played for the club, said the club could borrow money from the Rugby Football Union, but this was something it would like to avoid.

For more information telephone 01474 815825.