WORK is under way on a new multi-purpose sports AstroTurf pitch which will benefit schoolchildren and the community of New Milton for years to come.

The new facility will open at The Arnewood School by the end of this year, providing an all-weather sports surface for students during the day and local sports clubs in the evenings, weekends and school holidays.

It replaces hard tennis courts and will be used for a wide-range of sports including tennis, hockey and basketball, plus providing much-needed all weather training facilities for cricket and rugby.

Headteacher Chris Hummerstone, said: “This will be a fantastic new addition to our facilities and will help broaden even further the sports we offer our students.

“I’m also delighted that the new AstroTurf will provide an added and welcome sporting facility for the whole New Milton community.”

The pitch, which will have floodlights, will be available for hire to local clubs and organisations.

It can be hired as a whole or in thirds. Anyone wishing to find out more can contact Sarah Conacher at The Arnewood School on 01425 625400.