REDRUTH RFC are hoping to raise vital funds to help get them through the coronavirus pandemic.

The Reds, who play in the fourth tier of English club rugby and are the highest-ranked Cornish club behind the Cornish Pirates, are aiming to raise £10,000 towards operational costs and improving their facilities.

Like many other sports clubs up and down the country, the Reds have had very little income in the past few months due to sport being suspended and clubhouses being closed.

The club, which is regularly used for non-sporting organisations such as Slimming World groups and charities, is asking people to donate to help keep the club going.

If the club meets its £10,000 target, Crowdfunder and Sport England will add an extra £5,000 to the total.

The appeal, which runs until August 2, has currently raised £3,670.

View the Crowdfunder appeal at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/redruthrfc2020

The club is a big part of the community, with the Reds’ attendances at their Recreation Ground home often in three or four figures, while their vibrant mini/youth section boasts more than 300 players.

In the appeal, the club wrote: “During this inexplicable period of time, the club continues to plan its recovery.

“Being deprived the opportunity of the end of season club and county games and, with the local economy taking a huge hit, the situation facing the club is demanding.

“Operational costs still have to be met and there are some improvements that were planned to improve the facilities, have been put on hold.”