Chichester Care Home Residents Enjoy ‘Heart Of The Action’ At Improved Rugby Club

Chichester Rugby Football Club has delighted sports fans at a neighbouring care home by making it easier to watch live action on match days.

Discussions with Colten Care’s Wellington Grange prompted officials to install a raised wooden platform on the Oaklands Pavilion balcony overlooking the pitch.

Together with a newly installed lift and handrail, it means wheelchair users can now enjoy a far better, close-up view of one of the South East’s most picturesque rugby locations.

Clare Gibson, Wellington Grange Home Manager, said: “We’re thrilled that the club has gone the extra mile to create a birds-eye view of the heart of the action for our residents and others in the community with limited mobility.

“The chance to watch and cheer on the team in more comfort, with a glass of beer or sherry in hand, will go down very well with our residents.”

Clare added: “It’s not all about having a close-up view of rugby players’ strong legs, though some of our ladies have been talking about that!”

Club sponsorship manager Ron Migliorini said the accessibility improvements would benefit any disabled person keen to watch live rugby.

He added: “We are a community sports club and want to do what we can to facilitate access for all.”

The tie-up between the club and Colten Care began with the opening of Wellington Grange, by the corner of Broyle Road and Wellington Road, in April 2016.

A sponsorship agreement has seen club members coming into the home for talks while residents have been able to visit Oaklands Pavilion for matches, lunches and other events.