A KENDAL sports club is celebrating after its new home was named as an “asset to the town” and given an architectural design award.

Mintbridge, the new home of Kendal Rugby Club on Shap Rd, was unanimously voted the winner of the 2018 Design Award presented annually by Kendal Civic Society.

Mintbridge, which opened its doors last September, was lauded by honorary secretary of the society Patricia Hovey.

In a letter to the club, she said: “Not only is the standard of design and building materials of the highest quality, but the building fits well into the surrounding land.

"The approach to Kendal on the A6 is met by this new construction which adds greatly to the welcoming and lively appearance of the town. Not only is the building an asset to the town in its appearance, but the provision of a large meeting place and restaurant are an added bonus.”

As well as its rugby pitch and grandstand, Mintbridge has a lounge bar complete with balcony for watching the action, as well as state-of-the-art artificial pitches, a gym, specialist treatment rooms and hi-tech event and conference facilities.

Steven Whitehead, director of rugby for Mintbridge, said: “Since we opened Mintbridge a year ago, it has been fantastic to see so many people from our community using it to socialise, keep fit, do business and have fun.

“We worked carefully with our architects Club Design to create somewhere that would not only be an asset to the local area in terms of the facilities it offers, but would also add to the attractiveness and vibrancy of the appearance of Kendal.

“I think we’ve been successful in creating somewhere that is an aspirational landmark, but also blends in sympathetically with the local area. We’ve spared no expense in the quality of the fixtures, fittings and furnishings inside and out, but we’ve also made sure the club has a glorious outlook so people can enjoy the beautiful views from our rural location.

“We’re very grateful and happy that the Civic Society have recognised what a special place Mintbridge is and we look forward to it playing a very positive role in the landscape of the town and people’s lives for a long time to come.”

Kendal Civic Society will present the award at its members evening at St Thomas’s Parish Church on October 30.