Greenbacks planning switch to 3G

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Bedworth United hope to be playing on an artificial pitch at the Oval next season.

The First Division South Greenbacks have launched an ambitious plan that could cost up to £600,000 but have the backing of Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council and the Football Association, who could fund up to 50 per cent of the costs through grants.

The other half will come from United's Vice-Chairman Neil Rayson-Randle, who is keen to put the club at the heart of the community. Rayson-Randle, who joined the club in 2011, is the owner of Nuneaton-based Ray-Ran Test Equipment, and estimates the project will cost between £500,000 and £600,000.

A twenty-six-year lease on the Oval is currently being agreed and the club is working with the FA as it goes through the grant application process. United's officials have also sought advice from Evo-Stik NPL divisional rivals Sutton Coldfield who already play on a similar pitch at Coles Lane.

If everything goes to plan, they will kick off next season on a 3G pitch that can be divided into three training pitches and would be run and operated by the club. If not completed in time, the Greenbacks will look to complete the work in time for the 2015-16 campaign.

Rayson-Randle said: "We want Bedworth United to be a real community environment where we get everyone involved in sport. I’m a Bedworth kid who has been fortunate to do pretty well in life. I’m not doing this for personal glory. I think this is a way to help the community and help the club grow organically.

He added: "I can’t see us playing in the Conference unless we develop massively. However, if we are in our present league or the one above and can look back in five years' time with an all-weather pitch that is used seven days a week then I’ll be happy."

Bedworth United Chairman Pete Randle is delighted that the club's plan is moving forward with the backing of their local authority and the game's governing body.

Praising Rayson-Randle for his contribution, he said: "It’s a magnificent gesture. Neil wants to give something back to the community, not just Bedworth United. He wants everyone to play on it. It’s a chance for him and the club to do something for the community."