EAST Petersfield Community Group (EPCG) hit the back of the net when they opened the new and improved football area at Bramble Road play park.

The football pitch was officially opened by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) chairman David Ashcroft, and EHDC Cllr Julie Butler and Petersfield Mayor James Deane were also in attendance, as well as happy residents and people who have been involved with the project or supported the community group.

The idea of a new football pitch was first discussed in March 2012, and almost five years later the project was officially completed, with eager young footballers set to benefit from the new pitch.

EPCG chairman Steve Dewey said: “During these five years our group have been given great support by many organisations.

“Without our local councillor Julie Butler, who has personally helped and given me great support while carrying out my role as chairman, and the great partnership our group have formed with EHDC, this project would still be a pipe dream rather than a completed project.

“I hope the children appreciate the effort it has taken to install the artificial playing surface.”