PR12-15
23.07.12
The Reds Go Green
Hythe Town Football Club has developed its own dedicated water source to keep the
team’s pitch in top condition.
The club gained sponsorship from Veolia Water and local firm Flow Mech Environmental
Ltd to develop a pitch watering scheme that’s both water efficient and environmentally
friendly.
HTFC Chairman Paul Markland said they couldn’t believe their luck when during the
drought earlier this year they found that a well sunk when the ground was first built might
still be able to be used.
He said: “The well had never been brought into operation but the water was there and it
seemed an opportunity not to be missed. Our local MP Damian Collins helped us secure
sponsorship from Veolia Water and we were delighted also to receive support from Flow
Mech.
“Agreement on a scheme was reached quickly and everything is in place and working.
We are confident that even if we now have very hot summers we can maintain our pitch
in first class condition.”
Pumping equipment for the club well, an above ground tank and a booster are linked to
a mobile watering unit. This allows the club to keep its sprinklers going without drawing
any water from the mains supply
Damian Collins was invited to visit the club to see the completed scheme and praised
HTFC for the prompt completion of an imaginative initiative.
He said: “Hythe Town Football Club is an important part of our local community and this
project is a great example of businesses and local organisations working together for the
benefit of all.”
Veolia Water Southeast Head of Operations Gavin McHale said the water company had
been delighted to help the Reds come up with a green solution to maintaining a perfect
pitch
CONT/
-2.
He said: “Previously the club was using large amounts of high quality mains water in its
sprinkler system. That was not ideal as you don’t need water that’s fit to drink to keep a
football pitch green. Bringing the old well into operation is a good move by the club that
saves mains water and has no adverse environmental impacts.”
Jon Coates, Flow Mech Managing Director, said the company was a long term supporter
and sponsor of HTFC and was pleased to be able to provide the technical expertise
needed.
He said: “We are sure that the Reds are set for a great season. The Club has
continually improved the Reachfields Stadium and the latest move will give us a first
class pitch year round.”
In the coming season the Reds have their sights set on further eye-catching success in
the FA Cup and they now have quality turf under foot at the Reachfields Stadium to
match their ambitions.
Ends
For further press information, please contact Philip Bosley, PHB Public Relations, on
01580 852500
Picture attached
Caption: (Left to right) Barry Vincer HTFC Director, Jon Coates Flow Mech, Gavin
McHale Veolia Water, Damian Collins MP, Paul Markland HTFC Chairman at the
Reachfields Stadium