The oldest open rugby club in the world is bidding to become the best in south east London with the help of a £35,000 council loan ahead of the World Cup.

Greenwich Council have agreed to provide Blackheath Rugby Club with the interest free loan to improve the standard of pitches at their Well Hall site.

The work will bring a pitch at Well Hall up to championship standard, allowing them to host county matches and other club's 1st XV games.

Along with the council loan, the club will also receive a £65,000 RFU Grant as part of the Rugby World Cup 2015 Lead up and Legacy Fund.

Future plans also include a new spectators stand, improved player facilities and new floodlights.

A council report stated: "The upgraded pitches will provide a platform to encourage greater participation in rugby for both men and women across all age groups, help to capitalise on the 2015 Rugby World Cup and support the on-going development of Blackheath."