'Massive change' as iconic sloping pitch levelled

About 12,000 tonnes of soil has been removed to level out a non-league football pitch, that previously had a noticeable slope.

The pitch at The Elms Recreation Ground, home to Highworth Town Football Club near Swindon, has been both lowered and levelled to enable the club to play on a flat surface for the first time.

Committee member Fraser Haines said it was "a massive change" but that he still had fond memories of the old pitch even if he knew it needed to be fixed.

"Without this development, I feared for us. It was a very tired, old ground. We had fences falling down, our floodlights were unworkable," he said.

The distinctive playing surface had become part of club lore, with tactics designed around it and a club dog named after it.

"It will be missed, but we need progression. Going forward for the club, it will be tremendous," Haines said.

"[Previously] when we were playing up the slope, we used to try and hit the bank to slow the ball up for our wingers to get onto it. The club also bought a greyhound which we called 'Hit the bank'."

The pitch was ready in time for the club's first match of the season on Saturday, where they beat Cribbs F.C 1-0.

Town mayor Julie Murphy said the improved facility was a "great asset" for the area.

"We've got a very strong football family in Highworth and lots of teams come in and play.

"This site will be used for so many people. It's such a great opportunity for lots of different groups so we're so lucky to have it.

"It's something that's been wanted for a long time."

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