Official opening for new artificial grass pitch

THERE was much excitement from hockey players of all ages when the eagerly awaited new artificial grass pitch at Yeovil Recreation Centre was officially opened.

Cllr Mike Best, chairman of South Somerset District Council, was on hand to cut the ribbon for the brand new facility and declare the pitch officially open last Saturday (September 21, 2013).

The opening was the culmination of the £817,000 project which has been led by South Somerset District Council.  A successful funding application to England Hockey Board alongside developer funding from Barratt Homes and capital funding from SSDC have all made the project possible.

Yeovil and Sherborne Hockey Club, which is now based at the new pitch, have been closely involved in the project.

Keith Walters, club chairman, said: “The pitch got off to a great start on Friday when approximately 100 young people got a sneak preview of the facility the day before it opened.

"Balls were gliding along the new surface when they took part in a junior hockey taster session.  It was great to see so much enthusiasm on show and sessions like these bode well for the future of the facility.

“This is a fantastic facility and one which Yeovil & Sherborne Hockey Club have waited many years for.”

The council's assistant director for health and well-being, Steve Joel, added: "We are extremely pleased that this exciting facility is now open for business.

"A great deal of work has gone on behind the scenes for many months and we are absolutely delighted that the build has gone smoothly.  Yeovil will now benefit from having one of the finest artificial grass hockey pitches in Somerset.”

Kirsty Brammer, national manager clubs and facilities at England Hockey Board, said: “We are delighted that this new facility is now open that Yeovil and Sherborne Hockey Club have returned to Yeovil.

"Not only is the pitch great news for the hockey club, it will be great news for the sport in general as it will be fully utilised for grassroots hockey development.”

To discuss booking options, availability and to make a booking visit www.southsomerset.gov.uk/agpbookings or call the Facility Booking Line on 01935-462616.

PHOTO: Hockey players enjoy using the new pitch facilities at Yeovil Recreation Centre.

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