A thriving Gloucestershire rugby club has put out a call for more sponsors in the wake of escalating costs caused by its first team's promotion to a higher league.

Dursley RFC , which plays at nearby Stinchcombe and was promoted to Counties 2 Gloucestershire South, has space on its shirts and hoardings for businesses who want a slice of the club's success.

Phil Sprague, chairman, said: "Last season we got promotion after no game was lost and even though we are now in a higher league we sit in the top four teams. Our second team is also more likely to win its league this season and the ladies are doing very well.

"We also have 400 children in the youth section, which is a testimony to the dedication of all the coaches and volunteers to keep such a huge operation going. They are phenomenal."

The club is in "good financial shape", he said, but its operating costs have risen: "For the senior men's team we have to meet such challenges as coaches, first aiders and physio to cover injuries, as well as the ongoing outlay for pitch maintenance."

Plant hire firm Iron and Earth Equipment Ltd , based on the A38 near Berkeley, are Dursley RFC's main sponsors.

Barry Oakhill, director, told Punchine: "We're heading into five years' sponsorship and supporting a club like this has been a win-win for us; quite a few members are also in the building industry so strategic sponsorship makes sound sense."

The club is also retaining key sponsors for the season, including Gloucester-based Structure One Timberworks, Cam Tyres, and butchers Frocester Fayre.

Interested businesses for kit, play and advertising board opportunities are advised to contact Josh Bailey at drfcmenscommittee@gmail.com.