While players and staff patiently await news of plans for a new ground, Dartford Valley Rugby Club have announced an extended sponsorship deal with Bluewater.

The shopping centre will now sponsor the club into 2017, marking two years since it began supporting the youth academy.

Bluewater also sponsors the men’s side and the new deal will see it have a presence across the ladies and wheelchair squads, as well as the supporters’ kit, equipment and merchandise.

Club chairman Stephen Tite said: “The growth of Dartford Valley Rugby Club and the positive ways in which it impacts on the local community is only possible in co-operation with sponsors and partners.

“We simply could not do what we do without generous and committed sponsors like Bluewater.

“On behalf of myself and the whole club, we would like to thank Bluewater for their ongoing support.”

Bluewater manager Robert Goodman said: “We are delighted to continue our support for this well-loved club that is enjoyed by so many in our community.

“We are really excited to see them progress and develop in the coming season and we wish the teams every success.”

A spokesman for Dartford Valley Rugby Club said “it should not be too long” before the club and Dartford council are ready to confirm the location of the club’s new ground.

A new ground was one of council leader Jeremy Kite’s key
election pledges last year and he reiterated his desire to see the club into a new home at the council’s annual budget meeting in February.