UK-based building materials supplier Aggregate Industries has helped a West Highlands rugby team represent Scotland in a global amateur competition.
Oban Lorne RFC men’s team was invited to compete in the first Amateur Rugby World Cup taking place in France in September.
The club will represent Scotland in the Festival Mondial du Rugby Amateur and play against 19 other amateur clubs from around the world but in order to take part they needed additional financial support.
The club successfully applied for support from Aggregate Industries’ People and Communities Fund. This supports good causes in areas close to its sites – the company’s Glensanda Super Quarry being local to Oban.
Murray Hamilton, club secretary for Oban and Lorne RFC, said: “The sponsorship from Aggregate Industries is a huge deal for us. We are delighted to have such support and from a company who are so invested in our local community.
“The money will go towards playing kit for the squad and the company’s logo will be the main shirt sponsor for the competition in France creating a truly unique shirt for a truly unique experience.
“Without this generous sponsorship we would be struggling to manage the trip and find the support we need. We are truly grateful for the support and for us it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Calum Carnie, works manager at Glensanda Quarry said: “Oban is the closest major community to Glensanda and wherever we can we look to support projects and initiatives in communities we are part of.
“We wish the team the best of luck in the competition and hope our funding can help provide a legacy for future players coming through at all levels.”
The club has been drawn in a group with teams from South Africa, Tonga, Romania and Ireland with the top two going forward to a knock-out stage.
Oban Lorne RFC was founded in 1962 and operates teams from Mini Rugby all the way to senior men’s and women’s teams.
