OXFORD Harlequins are celebrating after being recognised at the Guinness National Rugby Awards.

The club won the Facility Development of the Year honour at Twickenham following their move to Horspath Sports Ground.

Working in collaboration with Oxford City Council and the Rugby Football Union, Quins officially opened the county’s new rugby hub in September 2018.

Having previously lived a nomadic life since the club was formed 23 years ago, they now have a home of their own, with volunteers working around the clock to transform their new Horspath base.

With an RFU-funded artificial pitch, clubs across the county also have access to the facility, with Oxford Brookes University and the Wasps Academy set to play there.

Quins director of rugby Stuart Wells could not hide his delight.

He said: “It’s a tremendous honour for the club.

“It’s been an exciting journey over the past couple of years and it’s recognition for all the hard work.”

Club secretary Jack Pooler added: “What makes this club so special is the people.

“Not just the people who play rugby, but the people who volunteer.

“We have some amazing volunteers at our club, people who volunteer when the seniors play and our parents.”

Henley Hawks scooped the mini, junior and youth section award.

The Guinness National Rugby Awards recognises the outstanding work done by coaches, players and supporters across the country. There is no other event which brings together the clubs and players from all the leagues in England, from grassroots to elite. www.nationalrugbyawards.co.uk