THE Stand Up 4 'Stoke appeal has received a boost to its profile after Lord Portsmouth agreed to become patron.

Lord Portsmouth (pictured), who lives in Farleigh House, Farleigh Wallop, confirmed to Basingstoke RFC chairman Dr Steve Tristram last week that he would be delighted to accept the role.

One of the original aims of the Stand Up 4 'Stoke appeal committee was to secure a prominent public figure to help with their efforts to raise £250,000.

That sum will enable 'Stoke to carry out its appeal mission statement and provide a host of improvements at Down Grange.

These include a new 290-seat stand, new first team pitch and clubhouse alterations.

Dr Tristram recently contacted Lord Portsmouth about getting involved and he has now received written confirmation that he would take up the role.

Dr Tristram spoke with Lord Portsmouth before he left for a skiing holiday to gain a verbal agreement.

And Dr Tristram believes the profile and authority Lord Portsmouth will inject into the appeal is a real asset.

He said: "He brings the appeal credibility and status, with his backing.

"He is an influential man who operates in high social circles and we believe that, with him acting as the figure-head for our money-raising exercises, we will achieve a great deal.

"He may also contribute himself to the appeal, but we are yet to discuss that matter with him."

While Dr Tristram heartily welcomed the acquisition of Lord Portsmouth's support, he said there are two other important decisions 'Stoke are awaiting news on.

The Inland Revenue (IR) are currently examining relevant paperwork concerning 'Stoke's bid to be awarded amateur sports club status.

'Stoke are trying to become, in effect, a charitable trust, which will entitle them to gift-aid benefit, but they need IR ratification first.

If successful, the 28 per cent bonus awarded on charitable donations through that Government-sanctioned taxation advantage will render appeal donations a huge cash boost.

Dr Tristram said: "We are expecting to hear from the Inland Revenue within the next two weeks, but the sooner it happens and we, hopefully, get amateur sports club status, the better."

He added: "The 28 per cent gift aid will help us reach our target sum far more quickly.

"It's a far more efficient use of money too, because donations we get at the moment are subject to VAT."

That is why, as they await IR sanctioning, 'Stoke are having to tell would-be appeal contributors to hold on to their money.

There has been a good response to the fundraising initiatives involving the sale of £500 debentures for a seat in the new stand for three years, and £50 named or messaged bricks in a commemorative wall on the stand.

"There has been a lot of offers and interest expressed in both options, but, for the time being, we are having to tell people to hold back," said Dr Tristram.

The second matter awaiting developments is whether Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council will grant full planning permission for the stand, parking and clubhouse extension.

"The parking is the main problem. The sticking point is where the extra spaces go - near the rugby club or besides the athletics track."

It is hoped the council will make their decision later this month, meaning the redevelopment and appeal fundraising can be pushed on in earnest.

"Once they make their decision, we can begin applying for grants to carry out the work from bodies like the county council, RFU and Sport England," said Dr Tristram.