More than £4 million worth of funding has been announced to support grassroots sports clubs in Wales.
The ‘Be Active Wales Fund,’ announced by Sport Wales, is intended to help clubs feeling the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Clubs across Wales can apply for the grants, worth between £300 and £50,000, that are a combination of money from Welsh Government and the National Lottery.
In May, Caerphilly Observer reported that a number of rugby clubs in Caerphilly County Borough were facing an uncertain future as income from live events and hospitality has virtually dried up.
Many sports clubs rely on indoor events such as wedding and funeral receptions for income, especially during the summer months.
Even though outdoor hospitality is due to reopen in Wales from Monday, July 13, there is currently no date set for when indoor venues will be able to follow suit.
There is also no indication of when organised contact sports like rugby will be able to resume.
In a statement Sport Wales said: “Grassroots sports clubs and organisations at risk of folding because of the Covid-19 crisis may need funding to help pay rent, utility costs, insurances or any fixed costs they may have for facility or equipment hire.
“Whereas some sports, such as golf and tennis, have begun to restart their activities, others like football and rugby are awaiting the green light to resume. “
Sport Wales chief executive Sarah Powell added: “Grassroots sport has been hit incredibly hard. Thankfully emergency funding has already saved a huge number of clubs and we’re pleased to be able to launch this new fund, which will provide even more support at a time when it is so badly needed.”
Sports clubs can access this new fund on the Sport Wales website.
Support quality, independent local news Help fund public-interest journalism in Caerphilly County Borough from just £1 a month and enjoy an advert-free website experience. Become a member today →