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NOTTINGHAM Moderns RFC has embarked on an ambitious renewable energy source programme and a renovation and refurbishment project to see the club through to its 60th anniversary in 2016 and beyond.

December saw the beginning of phase two of the programme through the futuristic installation of a state of the art heating and lighting system designed to stem the flow of ever growing energy costs for Nottingham's only rugby club based in Wilford.

The installation consists of a water-based underfloor heating system and the fitting of solar panels to provide a cheaper energy source for the clubhouse.

A team of dedicated club members spent all day preparing for the underfloor fitting by ripping out the existing floor covering across three areas.

Numbers were bolstered by three players from the club's under-16 team who had played in the morning at Keyworth but could still manage to support their club.

The three players, Aveire Gordon and brother Musa and Josh Keeling all attend local city schools. Aveira goes to Djanogly and Musa and Josh go to Bluecoat School.

All became involved in the club as a result of the RFU Inner City "All Schools" programme which has offered funding to schools for teacher qualifications and transport assistance.

The club has a junior section of over 200 members with 6 per cent coming from the city of Nottingham.

Phase one had consisted of new changing and storage facilities being put in and was made possible with grant aid from Sport England, through its Inspired Facilities programme, and the Rugby Football Union, through its Lead Up and Legacy Fund.

The total cost of phase one and two will be in excess of £190,000 and the additional funding has been made possible through an interest free loan from the RFU.

Jeff Mapp, chairman of Nottingham Moderns RFC, said: "The next few years are really important to the development of NMRFC Ltd.

"2014 will see the five-stage completion of the refurbishment programme. The new tram line from Clifton to the city passes directly in front of the club opening up a new market with increased clubhouse use and revenue an immediate target.

"The first of the club's junior members will be graduating to senior rugby providing new players to all the senior teams.

"England host the Rugby World Cup in 2015 and will provide a boost to the game in terms of recruitment and retention of players coaches and referees which the club will make plans to benefit from."

2016 marks the 60th Anniversary of Nottingham Moderns RFC with a number of functions planned.

That year will mark 25 years of the 'NMRFC Sportsman Dinner', which has seen the event raise over £100,000 for club funds and support to local charities.

Founder members of the club, including Doug Scott the famous mountaineer and conqueror of Everest, will be returning to the club for the celebrations.

"The work being done will provide a sustainable future for the club and help young players like Aveire, Musa and Josh stay involved in rugby union," added Mapp.

Read more: http://www.nottinghampost.com/Moderns-embark-ambitious-renewable-energy/story-20395424-detail/story.html#ixzz2pNBI6XMS