North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has welcomed the new Spafield 3G Pitch for Holywood. The MLA added after attending the Official Opening: ‘I am absolutely delighted at the new Sports Pitch and Pavilion being opened in Holywood. This is a fantastic facility for the local area, and is long overdue. Holywood has needed major sporting investment like this for many years and I am really pleased that the new pitch is now finally in place. It is encouraging to see many already using the new pitch every day and enjoying this wonderful facility. I have lobbied for an investment like this for many years, and I am sure it will prove to be a great success locally. I would like to commend North Down Borough Council for this new facility, and pay tribute to the work of all those involved in the process and the contractors who have ensured that it is a first class modern facility. The modern pavilion which includes excellent changing facilities as well as a kitchen is a great boost to Holywood and the wider area.’

Holywood DUP Councillor Stephen Dunne also added: ‘This new pitch is long overdue and I am glad that such a tremendous facility has been completed. Holywood Football Club has been campaigning for a new pitch in Holywood for many years and I would commend the work of Alan Doherty who has been championing this cause for so long. Local clubs like Holywood FC deserve our support and I am delighted that the new Spafield facility is going to be their new home. I am aware of a number of other clubs and sports which will also benefit from this new facility as well as importantly members of the public having the ability to book and use this new pitch.’

Pictured: Graham Wells (HFC), Gordon Dunne MLA, Alan Doherty (HFC) Cllr Stephen Dunne, Dean Nelson (HFC) and Ray Alexander in the Penalty Box!