TINA CULLEN AND SAM MACKARELL OPEN ASTROTURF PITCH AT FORMBY SPORTS COMPLEX

Tina Cullen Hockey Olympian and Sam Mackarell opened the new re developed Astroturf Pitch, at Formby Sports Complex installed by McArdle Astroturf.

The event marks the success of a campaign which was kicked off with a grant of £199,500 from Sport England and England Hockey's Community Club Development Programme.

Officials from SportEngland and England Hockey took part in the celebrations, along with local councillors and hockey officials, club sponsors, supporters and members.

As part of the opening there was a Slazenger England Hockey League contest between Formby men's 1st team and Peterborough.

The new pitch and upgraded car park are the culmination of several years of planning and fundraising through the Cricket Path Appeal.

The pitch had a new engineered base ,shockpad and Stadia Turf 18mm Sand dressed carpet. Also new 50/ 50 weldmesh fencing was installed.

Alan Dalley said: "It is fantastic to see the work completed on a first class, new and improved pitch which will serve top flight hockey as well as providing excellent facilities.

"Also, a development programme is underway in which we are encouraging schools and other organisations to increase their use of the club facilities."
Sport England regional director Stewart Kellett said: "This is great news for hockey and for sport in Formby.

"Sport England, the governing bodies like England Hockey and the clubs like Formby Hockey Club are working together to increase participation and develop young talent, as well as building an Olympic legacy in the region."

As part of the McArdle Group and established for more than 30 years, McArdle Astroturf’s past acclaimed projects have included high profile systems installed at Manchester United Football Club and the Commonwealth Games, as well as working extensively with schools, colleges and local authorities.