A rugby pitch in Watford, which was taken out of use as it was too uneven, is set to be fixed with the help of a national cash grant.

Watford RFC has been awarded £60,000 capital grant from the Rugby Football Union to get its second team pitch back in use.

The pitch was condemned in 2011 leaving the club short of playing space at a time when it was taking on more players and setting up a third XV.

The cash was secured after the RFU’s head groundsman, Keith Kent, visited the club's grounds, off Radlett Road.

David James, Watford RFC House Manager, said: "This is a great way to mark the 40th anniversary of the club’s foundation next season.

"The council had already funded the redevelopment of our clubhouse and changing-room block and the Herts RFU had made a grant to the clubhouse. The new pitch project is the next step in the development of our club, which is thriving on all fronts with its friendly, social atmosphere and 160 members in the junior section."

The laying of the new pitch will include a full five-metre centre drainage system to ensure a reliable and level playing surface for the club’s players, coaches and volunteers to enjoy.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Dorothy Thornhill said: "Watford Rugby Club is an important and respected member of the town’s sports and social clubs.

"Following on from the recent redevelopment of the clubhouse these pitch improvements have further added to the club’s standing across the area and have also increased the range of facilities that the club can offer."