Chilton Miners Welfare Trust has received confirmation of a successful bid securing £50K of FA Foundation equipment and machinery funding to support the delivery of an approved maintenance programme for the Charlie Wayman football pitches in the village.
A spokesperson for the Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured the grant, matched with Trust funding, which means we can purchase a compact tractor and the recommended cutting and maintenance equipment required to improve pitch quality.
“The funding does however come with conditions and two trustees have successfully undertaken the requisite Ground Maintenance Association (GMA) qualification.
“The course, for grounds personnel, ensures that pitches meet the Football Association Grass Pitch Quality Standards providing consistency around the safety and enjoyment of matches for both players and spectators.
“We are very pleased to be able to work on turf management and match preparation activities, supported by members of Chilton Junior Football Club, Joe Dredge (Durham FA) and Chris Hunter (GMA), all of whom have volunteered their ongoing support, for which we are extremely grateful.
The next step is a further pitch assessment and continued fundraising efforts to pay for drainage system repairs.
“We feel that this brings us a step closer to getting football back on the Charlie Wayman Recreation Grounds.”
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
