A family brewery from Wellingborough helped to ensure AFC Rushden & Diamonds’ fixture could go ahead after a devastating clubhouse fire.
Hart Family Brewers ran a pop-up pub as part of the efforts to ensure the football club’s next game could go ahead after the blaze.
Firefighters were called to the scene at the Dog & Duck ground in London Road, Wellingborough, in the early hours of Monday, November 16.
The clubhouse at the ground, which is home to both Wellingborough Town FC and AFC Rushden & Diamonds, was heavily damaged and led to the loss of television and audio equipment, memorabilia, furniture and bar stock.
A statement released by AFC Rushden & Diamonds on Wednesday, November 18, said: “Following the fire in the clubhouse at the Dog & Duck on Monday morning, the club have been working hard to enable Saturday’s fixture against Beaconsfield SYCOB FC to proceed.
“With the clubhouse out of action, Hart Family Brewers have kindly offered their pop-up pub which will have Fosters, Strongbow and Guinness available.
“The clubhouse toilets are also not available and therefore supporters can use the other toilets which are next to the decking.
“The changing rooms are being currently being professionally cleaned and the electrician is returning tomorrow to finalise everything for Saturday’s fixture.
“We will try to keep the disruption to a minimum, however ask that supporters bear with us while the clubhouse and toilets are out of action.
“The club would like to place on record its gratitude to the numerous offers of help, from local clubs such as Whitworths, supporters and governing bodies.
“It would specifically like to thank Hart Family Brewers for their help in this difficult time.
“Saturday’s fixture against Beaconsfield SYCOB FC will proceed as normal and will include the planned bucket collection for Jack Ashton as previously advised.”