Highworth Town's new all-weather pitch at The Elms was officially opened on Sunday 25 October 2026, Swindon24 reported that evening. The club had played on grass for 133 years.
Pete Webb, who has been involved with the club since 1950 and is now in his 90s, took the ceremonial kick-off. The club has named its bar after him.
Who paid for it?
The £1.2 million came from the Premier League, The FA and the Government's Football Foundation, together with Highworth Town Council, Swindon Borough Council and local organisations. The town council led the project and will own and operate the pitch for the wider community.
Who will use it?
Highworth Town FC and Highworth Junior FC are the main users. It is also meant for women's and girls' football, disability and inclusive football, schools and community groups. A local secondary school had already played a cup match on it before the opening.
The opening day included a charity match, a junior tournament, refreshments and music.
What was said?
Julie Murphy, Mayor of Highworth, said: "We've been trying to get a 3G pitch in Highworth for many, many, many years".
Rowan Haynes, the club's chairman, asked about the club's larger neighbours Swindon Town, joked: "We want to be bigger than Swindon."
Deanne Rose, Highworth Town Clerk, said: "There aren't enough facilities for clubs around the town".
Neil Hopkins, Mayor of Swindon, said: "The residents of Highworth really, really deserve this facility."
More from Swindo: Highworth Town FC.
Source: Swindon24.
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