Football back on the menu for local children

Late last year we reported on the dreadful state of the mini-football pitches in Springfield Gardens.

Local resident Dennis Gallwey had brought the situation to our attention and commented how sad it was that youngsters were no longer able to use the facility.

Mr Gallwey contacted us again recently with good news. "The football pitches have been re-turfed and I'm delighted to say that they are already being put to good use. On one morning I saw three matches going on simultaneously!

"It really is great for young people to be able to use this facility. It is much appreciated by everyone."

Mr Gallwey continued: "This just goes to show that if we do bring things to the attention of the Council, something does happen."

Springfield Gardens has benefited hugely from a new playground which was installed after the old one was dismantled because of Thames Water's excavations.

The small but much-used facility is set to be improved further: A spokesperson from Ealing Council told us, "Ealing Council is continually looking at ways to improve the recreation areas of the borough. At Springfield Gardens it is impossible to retain grass in the goal area due to the wear caused by year round use.

"We've now turfed the area to make the surface better for playing and as part of the Thames Water works we are considering longer-term options for further improvement."

April 17, 2009