Co-operative joins Rugby League for grassroots initiative

LONDON - The Co-operative has launched a scheme to enable Rugby League supporters to raise millions of pounds for the game by pooling their dividend payments.

Fans joining the scheme will have their Co-operative dividend paid directly to their chosen club's community trust.

All Super League clubs, apart from Catalans Dragons and 22 National League clubs, are eligible to be included in the membership initiative as long as they have a community programme arm to their club.

Robbie Paul, The Co-operative's "Good For Everyone" ambassador, said: "The scheme is tremendous news for rugby league. It will provide support to the game for many years to come and help across all aspects of the game, especially the development of players.

"It's so easy for fans to sign up and take advantage of the scheme, while knowing they're playing their part in the growth of rugby league."

Members will receive a share of profits based on the points they earn when they trade at any of the group's businesses, which include: The Co-operative Food, travel; pharmacy and funeral care; as well as The Co-operative Bank and Insurance.

Last year, The Co-operative paid out a total of £38.1m in dividends.

Liz Matkin, The Co-operative Group's sponsorship manager, said: "We are confident that The Co-operative Rugby League membership scheme will raise millions of pounds in the coming years, which will be invested by community trusts to support the ongoing development of the game."