Bachy Soletanche is proud to announce that it has once again joined forces with Clitheroe Rugby Club in Lancashire, demonstrating its continued commitment to supporting local communities.
The company has donated towards the development of a new state-of-the-art artificial pitch, enhancing the club’s facilities and allowing for increased training capacity through year-round, all-weather use.
A Legacy of Partnership
The relationship between Bachy Soletanche and Clitheroe Rugby Club dates back to the early 1990s, when employees David Slinger and Chris Thomas, both active club members, sought the company’s support. At that time, the club had acquired an old portacabin from the council but required assistance to transform it into a functional clubhouse.
Bachy Soletanche rose to the challenge, designing the new building and managing the construction project. The company coordinated the transport of materials, installed the foundations and refurbished the structure with the support of its network of suppliers and partners. The completed facility included a shower block, changing rooms, a kitchen and a bar—laying the foundation for what would become a thriving hub for the local community.
A Growing Community Asset
Since then, Clitheroe Rugby Club has continued to expand and now, in addition to the men’s teams, boasts several junior groups, three women’s teams and, as of 2024, its first women’s full-contact rugby team. It also recently became the first club in the UK to host a match featuring a fully LGBTQ+ rugby team. Beyond rugby, the clubhouse serves as a valuable space for the wider community, regularly hosting fitness classes, toddler groups and other social activities.
Committed to Local Engagement
David Slinger, now semi-retired, plays a key role in securing sponsorship and income for the club, while driving improvements to its facilities. Under his stewardship, all club revenue is reinvested to benefit its members. The club also maintains close ties with local schools, offering pupils access to facilities and rugby training. In 2023 alone, its liaison officer delivered sessions to approximately 2,600 children. In addition, the club supports one new charity each year and continues its regular fundraising efforts for the mental health charity Mind.
Looking Ahead
As well as increasing training capacity, the new pitch will also provide an additional income stream. The club intends to hire out the facility to local sports groups, reinvesting the revenue to support future improvements and sustain long-term development.
David Slinger, a former Bachy Soletanche employee who worked with the company for over 20 years and remains an active member of Clitheroe Rugby Club, welcomed the renewed support, saying:
“Bachy Soletanche’s support has been instrumental in the club’s success, thanks to companies like them, we’re able to meet the needs of our growing membership and continue making a positive impact on the local community.”
