The building was destroyed in a huge blaze yesterday morning which could have a major impact on the club's finances.

The clubhouse will be out of action for the next two to three months, and many families and groups intending to hold events there will be forced to go elsewhere.

Although home games will still go ahead, the club will not be able to entertain other teams and there will be nowhere to sell alcohol before or after the match – a major stream of revenue for the club.

General manager Jack Pearce said: 'There will be a loss of income if this place is closed for three months and, of course, it's a loss to the people who have got parties booked here and were looking to enjoy themselves.

'It will have an effect on the club because of the financial implications.

'Some of it might be covered by insurance but you never know.

'The matches will take place as usual but we won't be able to entertain the players or supporters, so that will be a major loss of income.'

The cause of the blaze is not known but investigators have not ruled out arson.

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.