Malvern RFC has been granted a new 35-year lease.

The club's new lease was approved by Malvern Hills District Council's Executive Committee on Tuesday (April 23).

This move seeks to ensure future growth and development of the club, with plans to use the funding to make the existing changing rooms "a more inclusive and fit-for-purpose environment".

The club also aims to help provide more playing opportunities across all forms of rugby, including girls’ and women’s rugby, and mixed rugby, and deliver significant pitch and clubhouse enhancements.

The club's current lease, a 30-year agreement signed in December 2000, was nearing its end, making it an impossible task for MRFC to access funding for necessary improvements to their facilities.

The club's vision for improvement was laid out in a 10-year rugby and community development plan to support their request for a new 35-year lease, and any future funding applications.

Andrew Longley, chairman of MRFC, said: "I am delighted on behalf of the executive of the club and all our members and supporters that we have finalised the lease.

"I would say thanks to those on our executive team who over many years have worked on achieving such a long lease on the home of Malvern RFC.

"It will mean we can further advance our plans around all rugby.

"We now look to move forward to develop exciting plans to modernise our facilities.

He added: "I would ask all local businesses to consider the opportunity of becoming a Malvern RFC sponsor, this will allow us to work together to improve our facilities."

Councillor John Gallagher, portfolio holder for resources at the district council, said: "Approving this new lease gives the club a great opportunity to grow and develop.

"It also contributes towards our priorities to promote health, fitness, and well-being, and to enable investment in playing pitches and community facilities.

"I am delighted that it will lead to an expansion of communities participating in rugby, and particularly that it supports and encourages the involvement of women and young girls competing in competitive rugby matches."

For more information about involvement and sponsorship opportunities at the club visit https://malvernrfc.rfu.club/.