THE opening of a popular all-weather sports pitch that has undergone a £230,000 refurbishment was officially marked at the weekend by a visit from former hockey international Nick Thompson.

THE opening of a popular all-weather sports pitch that has undergone a £230,000 refurbishment was officially marked at the weekend by a visit from former hockey international Nick Thompson.

The project to resurface the 20-year-old pitch in Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds, was completed over the summer months in time for the new hockey and football seasons.

Yesterday morning, Mr Thompson, who played for England, was on-hand to give some coaching tips to about 80 youngsters from the Bury Hockey Club. Lynsey Alexander, portfolio-holder for culture and sport at St Edmundsbury Borough Council - which funded the work - said: “The pitch, which is used by thousands of people from across the borough, was in need of attention and we are delighted to have been able to help, because anything which encourages people to take part in sport and exercise should certainly be welcomed.”

Anyone interested in booking the new-look pitch can do so through Abbeycroft Leisure on 01284 753496.