Howe of Fife launch new lotto to help raise cash

While our football sides have been able to take to the field and play sport again, all-be-it behind closed doors, rugby isn’t likely to be played until the new year.

Times are tight and, with overheads to meet, cashflow remains a major problem for rugby clubs.

To ease the pressure, fans have rallied around their clubs - and the support is vital.

Howe club president Gordon Douglas said: “Howe of Fife Rugby Club, like all others in the country, are still waiting on the green light to commence rugby matches by the SRU, with a provisional date of January 2021, which remains to be seen if achievable with the ever changing rate of infections and restrictions.

“All squads are continuing to train in the hope there is light at the end of what seems a very long tunnel.

“Due to the lack of rugby the club’s income has been severely restricted solely relying on SRU, reduced sponsorship and other funding and membership subscriptions.

“However, unless rugby and hospitality can commence these funds will diminish quickly as the club has overheads which cannot be reduced unlike other overheads Costs include pitch rent, insurance, pitch maintenance and equipment to allow us to prepare for the season whenever it may start.”

To help with cash flow, the Howe have started a club lotto, allowing anyone to buy online tickets for a weekly draw and an initial jackpot of £250 which rises £50 each week if not won up to a max of £1000.

The first £1000 was won this week by Pauline Greig.

Mr Douglas presented Pauline with her cheque at the clubhouse.

The president added: “The club would also like to thank all members and sponsors for their financial contributions despite no rugby to be seen since March and in particular to Helen Leslie who completes the virtual Kiltwalk and raised £1743.96 for the U18s and the club.

The Howe’s senior men will also be taking part in Movember to raise funds for cancer and mental health charities.

Anyone wishing to take part in the lotto should visit the club’s Facebook page or go to www.ourclublotto.co.uk/play/howe-of-fife-rfc/