OXFORD Harlequins’ artificial pitch is steadily taking shape at their new Horspath home.

Building work started at the site next to Oxford City Athletic Club this month.

Quins, who have moved from Marston Ferry Road, are having an RFU-funded £800,000 artificial grass pitch installed for next season.

An extra £200,000 will be spent on refurbishing the changing rooms and clubhouse, with Quins setting up a GoFundMe page to attract donations.

About 120 people have helped to raise £23,290 so far, while the club were further boosted by a £10,000 Oxford Sports Council grant.

Quins chairman Neil Hopper said: “We’ve been delighted with the response.

“A lot of older players and VPs we have not seen for a while have pitched in.

“The fundraising picked up very well at the start and has tailed off a little bit.

“But when people see it at the AGM on June 12 we will have some life again.

“Not a lot of work has been done on the pitch.

“But we’re still on schedule for the middle of August. We’ve got about 11 weeks for it to be finished.

“Work on the changing rooms is scheduled for June 11 and the clubhouse has been started – we’re just doing bits and pieces.”