RANGERS fans have invested another £450,000 into the academy system at Auchenhowie thanks to the Rangers Youth Development Fund.

The donation matches the cheque that was handed over to Head of Academy Craig Mulholland last year and comes as supporters continue to back RYDC initiatives despite the strains of the Coronavirus pandemic.

With Steven Gerrard’s side forced to play matches behind closed doors this term, the RYDC have suffered as key income streams such as Rangers Lotto and the Union Jackpot half-time draw have been lost.

READ: Craig Mulholland details Rangers academy highlights and progression despite Covid impact

RYDC have now raised more than £9million to fund the progression of the next generation of Ibrox stars and Director of Operations Colin Stewart has thanked fans for their efforts as they continue to go above and beyond financially for the benefit of Rangers.

He said: “The Rangers Youth Development Company is thrilled to donate another £450,000 to the Rangers Academy and our supporters have shown unwavering loyalty by continuing to play our weekly products in such exceptional circumstances. I can’t thank them enough for their incredible backing.

“RYDC, like most organisations, has had to adapt due to the pandemic and we have introduced a midweek Rangers Lotto draw and a new Rangers Quiz product, which was launched in December.

“We are immensely proud to support the Rangers Academy and more than £9 million has now been provided down the years. I know the funds we donate annually makes a positive difference to Craig, his coaching staff and all the young players at the training ground and we will continue to do all we can to assist them throughout 2021 and beyond.

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“RYDC also gave away over £300,000 in prize money to Rangers supporters in the past 12 months and we are delighted to do so. There is nothing better than seeing smiling, happy Rangers fans.

“We have always enjoyed a fantastic working relationship with Craig Mulholland and his Academy staff and I know everyone at the club is grateful for the level of support we are able to provide.

“But the hard work never stops and we will do everything possible to break the half a million pound mark next year.”

*For full details on RYDC  products – Rangers Lotto, Rangers Quiz, The Union Jackpot, Scratchcards, Stadium Bricks and Rangers Pools - visit www.rydc.co.uk or call 0141 427 4914.