WHARFEDALE RUFC secured its immediate financial future this week when Skipton Properties decided to renew its sponsorship of the Grassington-based club for three more years.

The £100,000 sponsorship deal by the Cross Hills-based developer will run through to the 2009/2010 season.

Skipton Properties, which was founded by Brian Verity, had previously donated £100,000 to support the rugby club from 2003 until the present time.

Wharfedale President John Spencer, who is also chairman of the Club England Standing Committee, said: "Skipton Properties have treated us extremely well over the years. Their tremendous sponsorship has allowed us to go into many ventures in the community that we wouldn't have been able to do otherwise.

"It has allowed a team from the Dales villages to compete on a national level. There are not many community clubs at our level of rugby football and this sponsorship is vital to our existence in National Division Two."

Spencer said that both Brian Verity and his wife Linda are keen rugby fans and the two have attended many of the Greens' matches.

"We have acknowledged the contribution they have made over the years and have invited him and his wife to be honorary Life Patrons of Wharfedale RUFC."

Spencer said that when Skipton Properties decided to offer the £100,000 sponsorship three years ago, the club was very surprised.

And now that Mr Verity has committed another £100,000 to Wharfedale until 2009/2010, Spencer added: "It's a big boost to sport and participation in youth sport in the area."

The money covers the club's general expenses such as travelling costs, kit costs and insurance but also helps with building Wharfedale's senior and junior sides.

Spencer said: "There is nothing wasted in terms of money. In fact, none of the groundsmen, coaches or administrators are paid. They are all extremely valuable volunteers."

While Spencer is delighted with Mr Verity's support of Wharfedale RUFC he also said that the company Skipton Properties has also supported Yorkshire League sides Skipton, North Ribblesdale and Keighley, as well as its Charity of the Year, Manorlands Hospice.

Wharfedale's first team coach John Lawn said: "All our sponsors are valued. The players appreciate what they do for us in terms of facilities. But we have to try to keep putting in the performances to attract the sponsors."

Spencer added: "Skipton Properties have been fantastic to us. We can't stress strongly enough how supportive they've been."

Mr Verity will present the cheque for £100,000 to Wharfedale RUFC this Saturday prior to the National Two game against Henley. The presentation will take place at 1.30pm at the ground in Threshfield.