NORTHWICH Rugby Club has been ‘blown away’ with people’s generosity after more than £13,000 has been raised by fellow clubs, residents, and supporters.

On Wednesday, October 26, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to Moss Lane where crews found Northwich Rugby Club's historic clubhouse on fire, believed to have been started deliberately.

A Go Fund Me page was set up to help the club rebuild and repair.

Two 12-year-old boys have since been arrested and released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.

A spokesperson for Cheshire Police said: "At around 5pm on Friday, October 28, officers from Northwich Local Policing Unit arrested two local boys on suspicion of criminal damage in relation to a fire at Northwich Rugby Club.

"Following questioning, the pair were both released on conditional bail pending further enquiries; they are due to report back to police on Wednesday, December 28.

"As part of their bail conditions, both of the boys are banned from entering Moss Farm."

An inspection of the clubhouse has taken place, but formal confirmation of the damage is still needed.

“They are of the opinion – at the moment – that it can be repaired,” Eddy Naylor from Northwich Rugby Club said.

Despite the good news that the building could be saved, everything inside has been lost and the team has thanked Northwich Cricket Club for welcoming them into their facilities.

“We also want to extend our thanks to the surrounding clubs who have donated,” Eddy added.

“We are just blown away with the generosity of people; Northwich Rugby Club is still clearly a highly regarded club.

“I can’t help but see the positives that are going to come from this.

“This unity not only shows how people value the rugby club, but how it’s also seen as a place people want to visit and spend their spare time.”

More than £13,700 has been raised so far to help with repairing the much-loved building.

Various rugby clubs have shown their support, including Sale Sharks who donated £1,000.

Northwich Rugby Club will be raising further funds at this Saturday’s Artisan Market in Northwich.

People should look out for the club mascot who will be out and about.