Blackwood Stars RFC are commemorating their centenary year by opening up their own clubhouse.
The club have operated out of a number of pubs and clubs in the local area – including the Brewers Lodge and the Crown – and were also based at Blackwood Rugby Club.
But it will be the first time in their 100-year history that they will have a place to call their own, although they will continue to play their home matches at Libanus Field.
Renovation work is already under way to convert the former St Johns Ambulance Hall, on Gordon Road, Blackwood, into the new clubhouse.
The Stars have been out of action since March 7 due to the coronavirus outbreak and were in danger of finishing the season at the foot of the League Three East B table.
They had only secured a point from 15 league games this term and trailed St Julians HSOB – the team once place above them who had three games in hand over the Stars – by three points.
But the Welsh Rugby Union cancelled all league and cup competitions this season because of the pandemic, ensuring there will be no promotion and relegation in any WRU league this season.
The club, however, are already looking towards next term’s campaign and are hopeful that the work on the new building will be completed ahead of the new season.
It will allow them to open up their doors for the first time in the lead up to September, which is usually when the new campaign gets under way.
In a statement, the club said: “The clubhouse will be a fantastic platform to push the club forward and hopefully bring news players and members to join this enthusiastic sociable rugby club.
“Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re interested in joining us during this exciting period in the club’s history.”