Fylde RFC are hoping for help from volunteers

Fylde will take part in NatWest RugbyForce 2020 tomorrow, a nationwide programme whereby volunteers from the community help to carry out repairs and upgrades at clubs.

It follows this week’s move to stage D on the Rugby Football Union’s ‘Roadmap’ for a return to action, allowing contact training in groups of six or under for up to 15 minutes per session.

Touch rugby games between clubs can also now take place, though full-contact competitive matches will only be possible when stage F is reached.

Under normal circumstances, Fylde’s National Two North season would be starting tomorrow.

An initial fixture list of 15 league games has been announced, enabling the action to get underway on any weekend up to Christmas, and Fylde are hoping for an imminent announcement from the RFU on a possible start date.

Whether the season could begin without spectators or with limited crowds remains unclear.

Fylde head coach Warren Spragg told The Gazette: “I’m not sure about crowds at our level. I’ve seen that in non-league football, crowds are being allowed up to 30 per cent capacity.

“That could work for us because we have space for 3,000 but there is a lot to be clarified, including the hospitality side – would we have to follow Government guidelines for restaurants or for sports clubs? There’s a lot to be put together.”

Fylde’s club volunteer co-ordinator Roger Westbrook has organised work parties to focus on the changing rooms, stand/terracing and perimeter fencing tomorrow.

The club would like as many volunteers as possible to get involved, firstly by emailing [email protected]

NatWest is offering grants of up to £3,000 for clubs to improve facilities.