AFTER seven long years, an Isle of Wight football club has returned home.

Niton Community Football Club are finally back at Springhead – their former home of 60 years – after planning issues had kept them away for so long.

It is all thanks to the fantastic work of their committee and the local community, says the club.

On Sunday, July 7, the club opened their gate again, hosting two football games – Newport U15 Ladies vs Rew Valley U15 Ladies, and Niton vs Niton Reserves.

(Image: Contributed)

“Over the past seven years the committee has been working hard to re-established football back in the village,” said a spokesperson for the club.

“The initial projects were hindered by lack of funds and then the covid pandemic.”

Through a huge fundraising campaign comprising quizzes, raffles, bingo, race nights, charity football matches, sponsorship, clothes sales, plant sales, easter egg hunts and even an annual carol “shouting” evening, and the sale of some land for the development of four houses, the club have been able to invest in some infrastructure.

(Image: Contributed)

The club have purchased two ‘portacabins’ to serve as changing rooms, and a separate referee room.

“With the assistance of local builders, plumbers, electricians, groundwork contractors and others with the necessary skills, the portacabins have been turned into changing rooms with showers, toilets and a small wash room,” said a spokesperson for the club.

“The changing rooms have been painted and look fantastic.

(Image: Contributed)

“Another local business has assisted massively with the pitch, which looks in great shape, although the infamous ‘Niton slope’ is still here!

“The local community have got right behind the club returning to Springhead by supporting the fund-raising events, and local businesses have been fantastic with prizes, sponsorship and general support throughout the past seven years.

“The committee have been relentless in their work to get football back to the village and would like to thank everyone for their help and continued support.

“In 2024, football in Niton is truly coming home.”

If you’d like to get involved and be a part of the family friendly club, are interested in sponsorship opportunities, or you are a player who would like a new challenge this year, contact club secretary Craig Ross by emailing craigross101010@gmail.com