A new floodlit pitch which will enable more people to take part in sport all year round has opened in the heart of a village.

Funded by the Premier League and The Facilities Fund, Sport England and the 948 Sports Foundation, the pitch at the Marford playing fields is a boost to local club, Wheathampstead Wanderers, who will be able to train there regularly all week.

The new £200,000 pitch was officially opened last week by Paralympic GB Blind Football captain, David Clarke, who was supported by Watford FC first team player, Sean Murray, England U17 and Wheathampstead Wanderers FC alumni, Anna Patten, captain of St Albans City FC Ben Martin and village based Saracens Rugby Club coach, Dan Vickers.

The local community were on hand to join in a penalty shoot-out with the stars before ribbon cutting. Parish council vice-chairman and the district council’s portfolio holder for sport and leisure, Annie Brewster, was master of ceremonies.

David Clarke said “It is a real honour to support you at the end of what has been an epic journey resulting in a fabulous facility for the children and adults of the district.”