A RUGBY club which applied for planning permission to host a 350 pitch campsite will welcome its first campers on Wednesday (July 25).

Eton Manor Rugby Club, in Nutter Lane, Wanstead was granted permission for the site by concillors on the regulatory committee June.

But because the Environment Agency objected to the plans on the basis the campsite was at risk from flooding from the River Roding, the final decision was passed to Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles.

The club has yet to hear from Mr Pickles, but will welcome its first campers on Wednesday morning, in time for the Olympic opening ceremony next Friday (July 27).

Spokesman for the club Gary Davies said: "We have been told that the Secretary of State will only get involved to overturn a "no" (from the council).

"We should be receiving a planning notice from the council today (Friday).

"The campers may get a bit wet, but they should know what to expect from budget camping."

The club is busy preparing for the arrival by painting the club and fences and making signs for the campers.

Campers will be able to benefit from full use of the club house and it's facilities and the site will be manned by at least four security guards at all times.

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