Widnes RUFC President Derek Dyer (far right), is pictured giving Halton Borough Council guests Phil Harris, Andrea Wall and Mike Wharton a first glimpse of the Wids' recently completed multi-purpose gym and indoor training area.

This was the culmination of a long-term effort to renovate and re-purpose the club’s squash courts, a prominent external feature for half a century but largely unused for the sport in recent times.

Former Club President John Loughnane commented that pure chance saw the work finished during Halton’s second stint as Borough of Culture.

“We had offered the building for use as a sports museum and display area in 2021, but Covid intervened and storm damage prompted this re-direction which happily coincides with Culture ‘26 and its activity theme.”

He continued “As ever at the Wids, the credit must go to volunteers who have put many hours and effort into the project, enhancing our facilities at Heath Road for the benefit, health and well-being of the local community.”