Pavilion appeal to raise £20,000

Residents in a Shropshire town have kick-started a £20,000 appeal to help replace a 50-year-old sports pavilion.

They are now hoping to replace Russells Meadow Pavilion, in Church Stretton, after planning officers at the now defunct South Shropshire District Council gave the scheme the go-ahead at the end of last year.

Church Stretton Town Council was behind the plans for the timber-clad building in Russells Meadow Playing Field.

The replacement pavilion incorporates "green" technologies such as rainwater-harvesting facilities, solar panelling, ground source heat pumps and a sustainable drainage system.

Councillor Bob Welch, town mayor, said much of the cash needed for the project will hopefully be available through the Football Foundation.

He said: "But we are expected to raise a percentage of the total cost, which is £70,000.

"We are appealing to the local community, especially the sports clubs in the area, to rally round to help us meet the requirements.

"We have to do it before next March in order for us to qualify for the much larger grants."

Now it is hoped the cash can be found through various fundraising activities including a buy-a-brick initiative.

The planned new pavilion will provide new facilities for the football and cricket club, as well as much-needed facilities for other groups.