A rugby clubhouse has been “transformed” in time for the sport’s World Cup, thanks to the help of volunteers.

Old Grammarians Rugby Club, based in Green Dragon Lane, Winchmore Hill, had a major clean-up over the weekend as part of the Natwest RugbyForce scheme.

The programme aims to unite clubs across the country in time for the World Cup in September.

Graham Kantorowicz, 60, of Hollyfield Avenue, Friern Barnet, helped organise the project for Old Grammarians.

A coach and referee at the club, Mr Kantorowicz said: “It’s been successful for us. We are very pleased with the outcome. People had a lot of fun, and the kids enjoyed themselves.

“It looks absolutely fantastic now. The hall got painted, and we had a major clear out around the grounds, lots of little jobs that needed doing. We are very pleased with how it has gone.

“People who have not got involved in the past with the club came too, so we now have a longer list of new additions who can help do certain things. It’s always gratifying when you are running an organisation as a volunteer to find people who can help. You need that all the time.”

A credit manager who has played rugby for more than 40 years, Mr Kantorowicz said the club planned to do it each year.

He said: “It will help in a number of ways. The place looks transformed, and I think it is important that every year when people come back, at the start of the season, they see a change in the club. It is like your own house, things build up.

“We have got the World Cup coming up, and it will make the place more attractive to watch the greatest sides in the world. People will come and be sit in an environment which looks good, which will really look the part.”

The club was formed by former pupils of Tottenham Grammar School, which closed in 1988.

Mr Kantorowicz added: “Back in 2003, when England won the World Cup, clubs up and down the country were flooded with kids. It’s a great event.

“I think we have got a very good chance, but the truth is there are probably four or five sides who could win it. But certainly we are looking forward to it.”