Footballers and cricketers in Claygate have hit the jackpot thanks to funding awarded to the area by the Football Foundation, the country’s largest sports charity.

MP Dominic Raab and the Surrey FA’s Malcolm Randall handed a cheque for £20,000 to Ben O’Connor, vice chairman of Claygate Royals FC.

The funding boost will assist the development of a new multi-sport community clubhouse on Claygate Recreation Ground. The new facility will replace the existing building which is more than 60 years old and in very poor condition.

The clubhouse will cost around £300,000 and should be in use in about nine months after construction commences. The new building will comprise of increased space for changing, modern indoor toilets and showers, a room for match officials and enhanced kitchen facilities.

Both the football and cricket clubs have committed to raise money to support the new clubhouse and have been applying for funds from a range of different organisations. In addition, they have been running events, general fundraising and attracting commercial sponsorship to support the project. A total of £290,000 has been raised so far and decision on when the building work will start will be made shortly.