COLCHESTER Rugby Club insist their much-anticipated move into their new home will be 'worth the wait' after it was delayed until next Easter.

The Blacks were all set to make the switch from their existing Mill Road headquarters to their new state of-the-art rugby facility at the Colchester Northern Gateway Sports Park, with a view to a January opening.

But the opening of the multi-million sports park has been delayed because of coronavirus.

In a joint message, Colchester RFC chairman Karl O’Brien and president Maggie Whiteman wrote: 'As you are probably aware, we were originally informed that the new clubhouse and facilities would be made available to us in November, allowing us to take full occupation and open in the New Year, however, we were informed by the council at the end of last week, that for a number of reasons we will not be able to take occupation until Easter of next year!

'This was not what we wanted to hear, although given the current situation with COVID it is obviously still unclear when we could hold any type of function, including lunches, with a decent amount of people!

'We do however anticipate being able to take a limited number of groups from the club, around the new clubhouse this side of Christmas. This is an absolutely fantastic facility that we will be moving into and we assure you all that you will not be disappointed.

'We are kept informed by the RFU as to what stage we are at with a full return to Rugby and the next few months will be crucial in terms of when we can play competitively again.

'Mill Road continues to be our home for now and while we are there we will continue to provide, for all our members, as many facilities as possible to the highest standard that can be managed. These are unprecedented times and we do appreciate your support on all fronts.

'We are very excited by the new facility and even though we are running a year later than expected it will be worth the patient wait.

'If you have any questions please contact any member of the Executive Committee.'

The RFU announced last month that a return to competitive rugby including London League One action will be delayed until next January, at the earliest.

The Blacks have not played a competitive match since beating Old Haberdashers, in February.