Leek finish New Year makeover

Leek's Town Harrison Park makeover took another step forward in time for the New Year when their new pitchside fencing made its debut for their Boxing Day derby clash at home to Newcastle Town.

Technical difficulties delayed the start of installation until October after the Evo-Stik NPL First Division South Blues won a £21,925 grant from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund in August to install a brand new perimeter fence and dug-outs together with other ground improvements.

The grant-funded project was undertaken by IAE of Stoke-on-Trent who fabricated the steelwork and Fairway Landscapes Limited of Knutsford, Cheshire, who completed the work in ten weeks. Volunteer Blues fans kicked off the redevlopment by helping to dismantle the old fencing.

Work on other ground improvements is continuing with the club currently trying to secure funding for laying a new playing surface in the summer now the erection of the fencing, pictured, has been completed.

With Lee Casswell's side away to Northwich Victoria on New Year's Day supporters will have to wait until Saturday's home game against Market Drayton Town for a second chance to see improvements at the ground.

Leek's manager has had his own New Year’s wish granted after learning that experienced central defender George Melling will return to the squad for the trip to Marston Road after spending more than four weeks in London on business.