RUGBY Football Union chief executive officer Ian Ritchie formally opened Bredon Star’s first clubhouse.

The Gloucester Division One club raised the funds alongside grants from the RFU, Sport England’s Inspired Facilities Fund, Severn Waster Environmental Fund and Wychavon District Council.

Businesses helped with a buy-a-brick sponsorship scheme, while cash raised from the Star 2014 calendar was shared with the Air Ambulance charity.

Ritchie praised grassroots community clubs with Star chosen by the RFU to become one of 500 Lead Up and Legacy Centres for the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England and Wales as part of an overall £10million investment.

Club chairman Kevin Falvey said: “We are delighted our project won approval following its original identification by North Midlands RFU.

“We will now have some of the best facilities in the area which local people around Bredon Hill can use during the week.

“The 2015 Rugby World Cup will inspire a new wave of people of all ages to become involved in rugby and this RFU investment will help our club to be even better equipped to welcome newcomers.”

Star were presented with an England rose, being recognised as the feeder club for England international Chris Pennell. Gloucester’s Elliot Stooke also played at the club.

Around 75 per cent of their first XV developed through the junior section.

New players are welcome and Star want to start a women’s team.

For more, visit bredonrugby.org.