JUBILANT players, fans and officials of Lordswood Rugby Club were celebrating at the weekend after their team managed to overcome last week's devastating clubhouse fire to win promotion.

The resilient club made an impressive comeback despite losing its equipment, kit and clubhouse when arsonists struck at its HQ in North Dane Way just over a week ago.

The rugby club estimated that the damage could leave it with a £30,000 repair bill.

On Saturday, the players showed their grit by beating Old Dunstonians in London League 4 by 11 points to six, to seal the club's promotion.

Chairman Tony Gue said he was delighted the club had won promotion and was surprised by local people's response to the blaze.

"We won promotion in the biggest game in the club's history and we're now the premier rugby team in the Medway towns," said Mr Gue.

"With the help of local people, we have cleared a lot of the rubbish away from the site and we have had several donations and letters of support.

"We're surprised and pleased by the way people have responded to the fire.

"We're a resilient bunch and we'll carry on even though we still have a long way to go."

The club used army equipment on Saturday and received DVD players to auction off from electronics firm Bose.

Medway Council offered £1,000 to help the club's revival bid.

The club has been plagued by vandals over the years, but this attack is by far the worst.

Police are appealing for witnesses to call them on 01634 884252.

If you would like to help the club get back on its feet, call Mr Gue on 01634 321017 or 07739 478683.

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