CASTLE Cary Rugby Club has received a £1,500 boost thanks to a housing developer.

The club is the latest Somerset recipient of funding from the Persimmon Homes Severn Valley’s Community Champions scheme.

The housebuilder presented the cheque at the clubhouse to club chair, Greg Power, joined by Somerset Councillor, Kevin Messenger.

Castle Cary RFC was established in 1888 and has youth teams serving children aged between four and 16, as well as a senior side.

One of its alumni, Oscar Churchouse, was recently selected for England U18s.

It comes as Persimmon is set to start work on 162 homes in Castle Cary, Tor Point.

Sales director, Carly Spear, said: “Persimmon is proud of our commitment to building a sustainable, new development in Castle Cary and, as part of that, we want to give our backing to a local institution like the rugby club.

“Clubs like this play an excellent role in the town, bringing the people together over the love of sport and providing a place for the community to meet, so we were very happy to support Castle Cary RFC with this donation.”

Chair Greg said: “We’re thrilled to have received this generous donation from Persimmon as part of their commitment to our community.

“For the club to continue to offer what it does in the here – whether that be a team to play rugby for or a place that brings people together – it needs to build partnerships like this.

“We’re grateful to Persimmon for the difference this will make for the club and effort they are making in here to support us.”