The future of a major Black Country sports club could be at risk unless tens of thousands of pounds are raised to refurbish its outdated pavilion.

Wednesbury Sports Union, a multi-sports club based in Wood Green Road in the town, has existed for more than 70 years. However, chairman Geoff Webb says the pavilion has not been updated since it was built in 1961 and is now in urgent need of repair. The changing rooms need work to meet standards met by the league and the roof leaks, he said.

Football, cricket, tennis and table tennis is played at the site. Wednesbury Sports Union also has a hockey club which plays off the site on an artificial pitch.

Mr Webb said most sport is played at a high level and the club’s facilities are not up to the required standard.

He said: “I have written countless letters to local businesses trying to get some sponsors, but I have had very little success. We need at least £30,000, probably more than that.

“The whole place needs refurbishing. The changing rooms are looking tired. A lot of the leagues ask for a certain standard of facilities which could put the sports we have here at risk.I have been telling people but we have not managed to raise much money so far.”

He said the organisation provides facilities and support for a whole range of clubs and has around 600 members, ranging from the ages of six to 80.

“We are a major sports club and we want to raise money to bring the clubhouse up-to-date for the members and the people of Wednesbury,” he added.

The union came about in 1936, when the individual rugby and cricket clubs in Wednesbury joined forces.

The cricket club has been playing at the site since 1920 and since then other clubs have joined the Wednesbury Sports Union and kept up a tradition, that was established in 1936, for their mutual support.

Wednesbury Sports Union has a long well-respected image within the borough and wider Midlands area, Mr Webb added.

To support the fundraising drive call Mr Webb on 01922 492653.