RADCLIFFE Borough Football Club looked to the future following the devastating fire by celebrating the opening of a new stand.

Business Robert Nicolas Steel donated steel for the stand, on the far side of the ground opposite the main stand which was set alight, a gesture made even more poignant given recent events.

Bill Rhind from the Accrington-based company, is a strong supporter of the local football community.

With all the new developments which have taken place over the course of the summer and throughout the season so far, Mr Rhind said he was disappointed to hear of the news of the fire which broke out on the main stand — destroying the PA and Press Box.

He said: "This company has always tried to do its best to help out the local communities in the area and hearing news of the fire was terrible.

"Following conversations with Bernard, I decided to get involved with the club as they needed assistance with the stand in order to comply with league restrictions.

"I am very pleased with the final outcome and have received good feedback from everyone the club when I attended last week's game against West Didsbury & Chorlton. I have to say I also enjoyed the pasties when I went!"

Previously Mr Rhind offered to help build a new stand for free at Taurus Park, after speaking with club president Bernard Manning Jr.

Mr Rhind said: "Considering the fire occurred on Sunday night, the club did brilliantly to get the game on just two days later. It's important the local community now show their support for their local club as we intend to do so ourselves going forward."

The newly built stand offers protection for supporters against the cold and wet weather in Radcliffe and is just to the right of the new turnstiles.

Paul Hilton, Radcliffe Borough chairman, said the club was grateful for the support.

He said: "This shows what the club meant in the community before what had happened and those who believe in the club and support and help us.

"We have to meet league regulations, the league does not discriminate on the grounds of how much money clubs have, we have to meet them."

The newly built stand offers protection for supporters against the often very cold and wet weather in Radcliffe and is proudly displayed just to the right of the new turnstiles.

Radcliffe Borough continue its league campaign at home again this Saturday (17th December) as it host Tadcaster Albion. Kick-off at 3pm.