St Mary’s Old Boys Rugby Football Club is thriving again having taken a 'significant financial hit' during lockdown.

The club, based near Almondsbury, runs several teams for men, women, minis and juniors, and there’s also a walking rugby squad.

But when all matches had to stop last year, the club called upon the support of Linden Homes and other local businesses.

The housebuilder’s Brook Park development in Harry Stoke is not far from the club's Northwood Park home.

Steve Cooke, chairman at St Mary’s Old Boys RFC said: “During lockdown our club had to cease all of its sporting and social activities, resulting in a significant financial hit. We are really grateful to local businesses like Linden Homes that helped ensure our survival this year.

“St Mary’s Old Boys RFC is a fantastic club for the community and it benefits so many individuals, not just as a hobby and socially, but we’ve also seen several members go on to play for Italy, Scotland, Ireland, Gloucester, Edinburgh, Bristol Bears Women and represent the sport in the British Army and Police.

"Ultimately we’re really passionate about playing for fun, coaching with a growth mindset and ensuring that everyone who wants to play gets to play.

“We’re always happy to welcome new recruits, especially in our mini and junior sections, and I’m sure there will be a surge in numbers with the new families moving to Brook Park.”

Linden Homes sales and marketing director, Sue Scholfield, said: “We’re delighted to support St Mary’s Old Boys RFC, especially during a difficult time. A colleague has been part of the organisation since childhood and so we’re aware of the club’s value and its commitment to the local community. It’s a wonderful facility and we look forward to following the teams’ progress this season.”

Located off Great Stoke Way in Harry Stoke, Brook Park is made up of 112 homes, including one and two bedroom apartments, plus two, three and four bedroom houses.

For information on St Mary’s Old Boys RFC call 01454 250489 and for more details on Brook Park call 01173 214744 or visit lindenhomes.co.uk