Gloucester-based wine retailer Laithwaites Wines has made a significant contribution towards Gloucester Rugby's upgraded pitch and training facilities.

Laithwaites' donation will go towards the installation of a new world-class artificial turf, allowing the club to strengthen their impact in the local community allowing Kingsholm to play host to grassroots and community-based sporting events.

The upgraded surface will also ensure that more Academy and Gloucester-Hartpury Women's fixtures can be based at Kingsholm in the future.

Laithwaites said it recognised the importance of Gloucester Rugby's work in the community and how the new pitch at Kingsholm will help to facilitate this work in the future.

Rupert Elwood, Laithwaites marketing director said: "We are thrilled to be able to make this donation to Gloucester Rugby's new facilities. We both recognise and applaud the Club's significant involvement with the local community as well as the Gloucester Rugby Foundation's incredible work using sport as a vehicle to achieve positive social change.

"Rugby is at the heart of the community and by donating to Gloucester Rugby's facilities we hope to reinforce our commitment to the area by providing more playing opportunities for local, grassroots sports teams."

Gloucester Rugby CEO, Lance Bradley added: "Laithwaites has such a huge presence in the local area and their values reflect those of Gloucester Rugby. With their generous contribution to our new facilities, we are able to reinforce our commitment to our community".

To mark the partnership, this week Laithwaites hosted the Sky Sports Fan Van event at its Gloucester warehouse.

Sky Sports' roving presenter Scott Quinnell and his trusty producer's "Legs" and "Bear" travelled to Gloucester to hear the stories of fans cheering on the touring Lions side - which features two Gloucester Rugby players.