by Alan Quick

THE next chapter in the replacement of the outdated Sports Pavilion at Sandford Playing Field was reached earlier this week with the demolition of the existing building.

Local resident Adam Voisey, told the “Courier”: “Today (Tuesday) marked the end of an era to Sandford Football Club as the changing rooms, after nearly 60 years, were demolished.

“It was certainly an emotional day seeing the building come down after such a time with many good memories and, with the new build, many more to come.”

Last summer Sandford Parish Council was awarded a £75,000 grant by Sport England towards a new Sports Pavilion for the Sandford community.

Charles Johnston, Sport England’s Property Director said at the time: “We are pleased to offer £75,000 of National Lottery funding to help the Community in Sandford lead more active lives.

“With proposals in place to build a new pavilion, this facility will provide a home for Sandford AFC and be a huge benefit to the wider community.

“I wish Sandford Parish Council every success in delivering this project and look forward to the pavilion’s opening in the Spring of 2017.”

Mrs Shuana Miles, chairman of Sandford Parish Council at the time of the announcement said the new Sandford facility will mean that parish organisations including Sandford AFC, Sandford School and Sandford Tennis Club will be able to make use of the Sandford Community Sports Pavilion when using the field.

Local funding and grants have helped to raise the remainder of the thousands of pounds needed for the new building.

The children’s play area at the Playing Field is out of action until the works have been completed.