NEW SECURITY FENCING FOR KWC ASTRO PITCH

Security fencing at King William’s College’s astro pitch has been upgraded thanks to a £30,954 community grant from Manx Lottery Trust. The boundary fencing was more than 20 years old and because of exposure to the coastal environment the metal had corroded, which created holes and sharp edges in the fence line.

The pitch provides important facilities for a variety of sports, including hockey, football, tennis, and circuit training, and is used by many sports clubs and community groups in addition to pupils at KWC.

Suzanne Parkinson, KWC Estates Manager, said: ‘The deterioration was due to the fencing being exposed to the coastal environment over a long period and it created safeguarding issues for our pupils and those clubs and groups that use the astro pitch.

‘The new fencing will secure the long-term future of the facilities, providing continued opportunities for sport and recreation, which in turn makes such an important contribution to the health and wellbeing of our school and the local community. Boundary fences contribute to visitors’ first impressions, and, in security terms, they are the first line of protection in deterring unauthorised individuals from trying to gain access to the astro pitch.

‘On behalf of the College, and the community groups that use the pitch, I would like to thank Manx Lottery Trust for supporting this important initiative.’

Sarah Kelly, Manx Lottery Trust Chairman, said: ‘Improving safety and securing use of facilities for the future is important and we are pleased to have been able to assist in protecting this well used pitch.’

For information about Manx Lottery Trust and the community funding support available, visit www.mlt.org.im