One aspect of the new structure, however, marred this accomplishment, and it was the galvanised steel gutters running down from the top of the stand and around the rear perimeter of the roof, which in severe weather conditions were prone to leaking.

Obviously something had to be done. And fast! Which is when Carillion, the main contractors on the project had a word with their roofing contractor, who in turn recommended H D Sharman’s Rubberised Plygene Gutterline.

Having solved many similar problems in the past, Sharmans went along to survey the gutters before they manufactured made-to-measure Gutterline liners and custom-moulded junctions, together with bespoke seals to fit around the syphonic outlets that formed part of the rainwater system. In total the company supplied just under 250 metres of Gutterline.

Even though access to the gutters was in places restricted, because Gutterline is supplied in single-section, joint free rolls, and of course because everything is factory-made to fit, the contractors had no problems installing it.

Despite the fact that it has since been thoroughly tested by persistent heavy rain, thanks to Gutterline there has been no sign of any leaks whatsoever. No wonder Carillion and the RFU are absolutely delighted. www.hdsharman.co.uk.