The Welsh Rugby Union has announced a funding boost for the grassroots game.

The governing body has secured a grant of �250,000 from the Foundation for Sports and Arts, which is earmarked for the improvement of facilities.

Clubs can apply for a grant of either �20,000, �5000 or �1000 but must find a matching sum to qualify.

The WRU has also made available a further �500,000 for its ongoing club loan scheme, which can be applied for in conjunction with the grant.

So if a club can raise �20,000 then it can apply for a grant of �20,000, plus a WRU club loan for the same amount if required.

Clubs may be eligible for WRU club loans even if they are not successful in applying for grant funding.

There are five �20,000 grants available, ring-fenced into one for each of five areas - the clubs who fall under the umbrella of each of the four professional regional teams, plus those in north Wales.

So for example, if Dunvant and Maesteg - both Ospreys associate clubs - applied then only one of them could be awarded a grant.

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Likewise, there are four �5000 grants available per area, although there are also 50 grants of �1000 which will be available to those clubs judged most worthy.

The applications likely to win favour are those that will increase participation levels in Welsh rugby, such as new women's, junior and youth teams.

WRU group chief executive Roger Lewis said: "We have recently undertaken a survey of club facilities in Wales which shows an urgent need for investment in club facilities.

"Grassroots rugby clubs are the heart and soul of the game in Wales.

"That's why we are delighted with the level of support we have received from the Foundation of Sports and Arts and that's why the WRU is prepared to invest so much into the community game.

"Following this financial boost, we will be seeking to engage with other organisations and partners to try to ensure appropriate facilities are available throughout Wales."