Penygroes RFC officially opened its newly-refurbished clubhouse function room with the club’s 2014 season presentation evening and slammed claims that the club was struggling to survive.

Thanks to a grant from the WRU, club volunteers helped a professional painter and decorator to re-furbish the function room and stage area, transforming the room into one of the finest facilities in the area.

The work is Phase One of an ongoing development project and the club has many more plans in the pipeline, including a second pitch for junior and youth sides along with state of the art match floodlighting.

Contrary to village rumour, the club is in a healthy financial situation and talk of its imminent closure is completely unfounded, club officials told the Guardian.

“The club continues to survive and flourish,” secretary Derek McAndrew said.

“There is also absolutely no truth whatsoever in a further rumour, probably arising from the same source, that the club will not have a team this year.”

The club has already signed eight new players - all from Penygroes – ahead of the new season.

The determined mood in the club has already seen the return of pre-season training.

Steve Pope, a leading strength and conditioning coach, has been working with the squad who are now in their sixth week of training, with 20 to 25 players attending weekly sessions.

Rugby training sessions start this week under new coaches Kevin Jones and Phil Ashby on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.45pm in Penygroes Park.

Both are form the area and boast vast rugby experience at a high level.

Penygroes Rugby Club is one of the oldest clubs in this area and is now in its 123rd year with preparations already underway to mark the 125th Anniversary in 2016.

The club is also planning an international tour as part of the celebrations.

Like many clubs, Penygroes RFC would like to see more volunteers and anyone who can spare a few hours each week is asked to contact Mansel on 01269 845992 or Derek on 01269 831150.