GRASSROOTS sport in Overton has received a significant boost following the official opening of a new sports pavilion.

The Ken Hogan Pavilion at Berrydown will allow the ten-acre site to be optimised for football, cricket and athletics with an emphasis on youth development.

Overton’s new pavilion comprises four team changing rooms, each with showers, two officials changing rooms and a function hall and kitchen.

The building is named after the late chairman of the ORC sports charity, whose initial drive and inspiration made it possible after more than 15 years of trying.

The Football Foundation, the country’s largest sports charity, have largely funded the pavilion with significant contributions from the borough and parish councils, Sport England and local sports charities.

Overton Recreation Centre worked in partnership with the Hampshire County FA to secure a grant of £278,000 from the Football Foundation.

Steve Williams, chairman of Overton Recreation Centre said: “This great facility is a very welcome boost for grass roots sport.”

MP Sir George Young said: “The Football Foundation and the other bodies have generously backed this community that was recognised as loving its sport.”

Paul Thorogood, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: “It is so rewarding to see this new facility completed and ready for use by the local community.”