Harry Redknapp opens Fordingbridge 3G sports pitches
The facilities at Burgate School have cost £900,000
New state-of-the-art 3G sports pitches have been officially opened in Fordingbridge - by ex-football manager Harry Redknapp.
The facilities at the Burgate School have been part funded by the Premier League and the FA to improve the grassroots game.
Harry told the crowds he was delighted to be back, after bringing his AFC Bournemouth team to the town for training in the 80s - joking that the pitches back then 'weren't the best'!
The facilities have cost nearly £900,000 to install - with £250,000 of the funding coming from New Forest District Council (NFDC).
The project's also had £600,000 of support from the Premier League and the FA, with the Burgate School contributing £40,000.
It's already being used by the school and sixth form, as well as the District Council, Fordingbridge Turks football club and Fordingbridge Rugby.
Harry Redknapp met with some of their young players during his visit.
Cllr Derek Tipp, portfolio holder for planning and economy from NFDC, said:
“The Burgate School and Sixth Form is well placed geographically for an improved open space in Fordingbridge. We have worked with the school to develop an open space that will benefit the local football and rugby clubs as well as being open for community events. It will be a major boost to all weather sports provision in the town and will allow multiple practice or match sessions to operate at the same time.
“Housing developers of new properties in Fordingbridge have been required to contribute per new house towards new playing pitch provision and associated facilities in the town. This allocation is a first step in such sports facility improvements for the town. We look forward to seeing the space being used for a variety of sports and providing affordable access for all.”