Lewes RFC ‘will do their utmost’ to ensure future of the club

As well as affecting final positions, the cancellation of the season has had huge financial implications.

The unprecedented disruption caused by both waterlogged pitches and the decision by the RFU to curtail the remainder of the season greatly impacted this season – and the potential future of the club.

A number of events at Lewes, always held towards the end of the season, providing valuable revenues, had to be cancelled and will impact the level of funds usually available to kick-start and prepare for the next season.

SEE ALSO England Lionesses and ex-Brighton stars help Sussex football fundraisers rake in £33,000 for NHS | Sussex clubs admit battle with FA over season write-off may end - but vow: We'll come back stronger | Crowd pictures: That fantastic day back in April 2017 when Brighton celebrated promotion to the Premier LeagueThe Government, the RFU and other sports related bodies, have created various grants and loans that Lewes hope to be able to make use and which have been welcomed by all clubs.

Page said: “The Sussex RFU constituent body and the RFU were very quick to step in and call together all clubs, to ensure they fully understood the potential impacts there will be as part of the lock down. They have been guiding and advising clubs as to what is available directly from the Government, themselves and from Sport England. All of this assistance is more than welcome at this time.

“Obviously no-one knows yet what position a lot of businesses will be in after the current situation. We can only hope we are able to retain as many of our sponsors as we can and lessen the overall impact closing the season early may have had, but it’s too early to really tell at the moment. Understandably our clubhouse is currently closed, but we are using social media to post various rugby-related physical activities, some created by our own coaches, to try to help keep people fit and active whilst they stay at home.

“We keep them informed, as much as possible as to what is going on regarding the club in general. We may well have to organise a virtual AGM, which will be interesting, or delay it to nearer the start of next season.”

Despite the strange latter part of the season, Lewes Ladies sides had a great season, finishing second and fourth in their respective leagues.

The senior men had to make do with fewer matches because of the state of pitches throughout the county, plus the fact three clubs had to withdraw from the league after the start of the season through a lack players, a feature being replicated throughout the country.

Page added: “Our minis and juniors continue to thrive with around 300 children having used the largely ageing facilities at the Stanley Turner Ground every week before the lockdown took effect. We are reliant on our volunteers, coaches, Lewes District Council (our landlords) and especially our generous sponsors to enable us to organise rugby training and matches for all of our teams every week.

“Lewes Rugby Club has existed for 90 years, most of which it has proudly played at the Stanley Turner Ground.

“We will do our utmost to ensure it is able to continue to do so.”