CITY LEGENDS OPEN SCHOOL'S 3G PITCH
Manchester City legends Mike Summerbee and Tony Book have opened a school's new third generation (3G) artificial grass pitch.
The pair visited Failsworth School in Manchester to cut the ribbon at the newly-refurbished Failsworth Sports Campus.
They were joined by England forward Sue Smith, Manchester City Women's defender Danielle Lea and Football Foundation president Lord Pendry.
The pitch was partly funded by a £317,348 grant from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund.
Summerbee said: "It was a real privilege for me to officially open this impressive new pitch, especially with it being in Manchester.
"Artificial grass pitches, just like this one, are so important to grassroots football, and I know that this one will be very well used by the school and local community.
"Our club's foundation, City In The Community, are already delivering sessions at the school, so it'll mean more local people having more opportunities to play the beautiful game."
The Football Foundation is responsible for managing and delivering the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, funded by the Premier League, The FA and the Government via Sport England.
It awarded £935,080 to Failsworth School in 2006 for two new artificial grass pitches, a new changing room pavilion and the improvement of pitches.
Headteacher John Meagher said: "We are delighted to have formally opened our fantastic new facilities here at Failsworth School.
"The new facilities will not only benefit the school and communities of Failsworth and Oldham, but also support and enhance the further development of football in the local area."
Lord Pendry said: "I am so delighted to see the positive effect this pitch is having on grassroots sport and the community in Manchester, and pleased to meet the people dedicated to ensuring its continued success."
