New pitch for Cottingham sporting teams

Hundreds of sport lovers will be able to enjoy a brand new 3G pitch in Cottingham as a local business is working hand in hand with a local authority to make the project possible.

King George V Playing Fields in Cottingham have been without a football pitch for years after its Astroturf became tired and eventually condemned.

The loss of recreational space meant East Riding Rangers Football Club, which has 14 teams of all ages, including 160 children, had to relocate to other pitches in the East Riding, particularly in the winter months.

Now, a £35,000 grant has been secured by East Riding of Yorkshire Council to cover the cost of the new pitch.

Sewell Construction has also donated thousands of pounds worth of work to prepare the ground before the new pitch can be laid. Sewell has offered management time, labour and materials free of charge.

Alicia Mail, Club Secretary at East Riding Rangers, said: “For the last two to three years, the old Astroturf has been out of use and too dangerous to use, as it started to break and moss grew on it. All of our teams in the winter have had to use other pitches elsewhere.

“We spoke to East Riding of Yorkshire Council and this fantastic grant came about. But when it came down to it, we didn’t realise there was sand underneath the pitch and it had to be removed before a new pitch could be laid.

“Then Sewell Construction offered to do this work for us, which meant the project could go ahead.

“We are so excited about it, so grateful and we are bowled over by the support.

“To know people are out there and willing to do things like this for community groups is amazing.

The work began in March and the new pitch will officially open in June.

Barbara Wilkinson, Finance Trustee at King George V Community Trust, said: “This is the best thing to happen to us for years.

“It’s going to make such a difference. It always used to be busy and we hope it will be again.”

Alongside football teams, it is hoped a walking football group will be re-established and other community groups, teams and schools will book the space.

Geoff Smith, Contract Manager at Sewell Construction, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to give back to the community in this way.

“Giving back is part of our culture and values at Sewell, and offering our expertise and practical support is distinctive and important to us.

“We hope the work we carried out will pave the way for a positive outcome and people will be able to benefit from the pitch for many years to come.”