BEN Rhydding Hockey Club's new artificial hockey pitch has been completed and has been used for the two end-of-season festivals.

This £600,000 project will make Ben Rhydding Sports Club one of the largest multi-sport facilities in Yorkshire.

With over 800 members the club provides sporting facilities for all age groups.

The hockey club now has two artificial pitches – something few clubs in the country can claim.

Noel Hutton, former club president, said the new playing surface would be a huge boost. He said: “The second pitch will now enable the club to clear junior waiting lists, to extend times for midweek training sessions, as well as allow more attractive weekend start times for all home and visiting teams."

It will also enable the club to capitalise on the increased demand for hockey following the GB women's success at the Olympics.

There are plans to hold a formal opening of the new pitch on September 9 when the new season starts with members of the gold-medal winning team in attendance.

The new development is a partnership between the club and Ilkley Grammar School who will use the facilities during the day.

Anyone wishing to hire the new pitch should contact Peter Richardson on 01943 607372.

Funding was provided by Sport England, England Hockey, the National Hockey Foundation and Ilkley Round Table.

The club raised over £100,000 and Mr Hutton said: "We would like to thank all those who have contributed so generously."

Fund raising continues and anyone interested in making a contribution should contact Noel Hutton on 01943 830093. The club has charitable status for its fund raising.