A COMMUNITY football pitch has been completely refurbished thanks to a £35,000 makeover.

Children celebrated the opening of the ground at Padstow Square in Brookvale with a fun match.

Community venues project manager Russell Gates said: “It is fantastic.

“The football pitch historically suffered from flooding which restricted usage to a few weeks in the year leaving young people with limited access to playing football safely.

“We had issues with anti-social behaviour with youngsters kicking balls outside shops and diving out in front of cars."

He said the pitch also fell into disrepair and was misused as a dog walking area, leaving the ground covered in dog mess.

Russell said:”The project has taken over a year in planning and development and has been achieved with the dedication and support of Halton Council and community groups.

"It is a total transformation."

The old turf and soil was removed and underground drainage fitted.

Fresh soil and specially reinforced turf has been laid to create a natural grass surface which will be hard wearing and resistant to flooding.

Russell added: “The grass is coming through nice and lush. This will allow footballers to make use of this 5-a-side pitch for the majority of the season.

“It will make a big difference.”

Children from Halton Play Council used it for an activity session and youngsters have enjoyed playing football again.

The Mayor of Halton, Cllr Ellen Cargill officially opened the refurbished pitch.

Halton Cllr Martha Lloyd Jones helped to secure £20,000 funding from a Halton Council area forum.

Your Housing Group donated £10,000, Brookvale and Manor Fell Residents Association contributed £1,000 and Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust also supported the venture.