Anyone for a cup of tea at half time? 20/10/04

With months of negotiations behind us, The Football Foundation has confirmed a grant offer of over £60,000 towards the Smiths Fields changing room refurbishment. Works can now begin which will see the existing building interior stripped out and re-modelled to provide new changing rooms complete with attached toilets and showers, a kitchen area, two referees rooms, a disabled/female toilet and boys toilets. A ramped access and improved security features will also be added along with an extension to the rear of the building to form an equipment store with large roller shutter door.

For all these improvements to be beneficial we are going to install mains water, electricity and drains (by way of a septic tank) so for the first time our players, visitors and spectators will be able to enjoy refreshments and toilet facilities in a building designed to modern requirements.

Grants from Manchester Airport, the Manchester Guardian Society Charitable Trust, individual donations and our own contribution following increased fundraising efforts over the last few years will all be used in tandem with The Football Foundation award towards the total budget of £98,000.

Anyone who can help in any small way, in terms of labour, materials or financial assistance please let us know. The works are programmed to take approximately 18 weeks.

Many thanks to everyone who has helped with the project.