Communities

Minto sees how new pitch will boost Bexley

22 Aug 2017
Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, Mayplace Playing Fields

Former Chelsea and West Ham player unveils surface made possible by Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund

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Over the last 22 years, the sand-based pitch at Mayplace Playing Fields in Bexley, London, had become run down, affecting hopes of bringing in new players from the community. 

But earlier this year, work began to transform the site thanks to a grant of £459,486 from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund.

Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, Mayplace Playing Fields, Scott Minto
Scott Minto saw how youngsters will benefit from the new facilities in Bexley

It will be used by grassroots club Danson Sports FC for training and matches as well as primary schools, amateur teams and community groups. 

The new pitch is expected to more than double overall sports participation in the area, including bringing in five new girls' teams.

The refurbished Mayplace Playing Fields was officially opened by the former Chelsea and West Ham United player Scott Minto, who also featured for the nearest club to the facilities, Charlton Athletic.

Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, Mayplace Playing Fields
The construction of a 3G artificial grass pitch and floodlights means that the local community can play all year round

"This pitch is fantastic," Minto said. "There are youngsters playing on here as well as people taking part in walking football.

"It caters for everyone, of all abilities and it's a great achievement. It's great for the area.

"This is about creating facilities for people of all ages, to go out, be healthy, to have fun, to be a part of a team.

"I would have loved these facilities when I was growing up. Everyone would love their kid to be an elite sportsman but it's not about that.

Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, Mayplace Playing Fields
The new pitch at Mayplace Playing Fields is expected to increase sports participation in the area by more than 200%

"It's about getting these kids out of their house or flat and enjoying themselves and maybe forgetting about life for whatever amount of time."

The Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund is delivered by the country’s largest sports charity, the Football Foundation.

See: About the Premier League & FA Facilities Fund

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