Sporty youngsters can now enjoy two new hockey and football pitches.

Ilford Recorder: Players try out the new pitches at Redbridge Sports CentrePlayers try out the new pitches at Redbridge Sports Centre (Image: Archant)

The artificial turf pitches were officially opened at Redbridge Sports and Leisure Centre, Forest Road, Barkingside, on Tuesday.

The event was followed by an under-11s and under-13s hockey competition so players could use them for the first time.

Business development manager, Matt Reynolds, said: “The new surface will enable both hockey and football players to make use of the pitches, for events as well as for local clubs, schools, colleges and universities who make up many of the 750,000 visitors to the centre each year.”

The new pitches were made possible through funding from Sport England and England Hockey.

Ken Leggate, CEO of Redbridge Sports and Leisure, said: “The fact the pitches conform to international hockey specifications maintains the standards of the centre’s outstanding sport and fitness facilities, which are for the benefit of the local community.”