Richard Hale's 3G facility was officially opened Thursday, 15th November by Stevenage manager Dino Maamria, with special thanks going to the support of Bury rangers FC for making the project happen.

The new 106m by 70m floodlit pitch will cater for students, along with players from Bury Rangers FC and Hertford Town Youth, playing 5v5, 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11 football in all weather conditions, thanks to its artificial surface.

Floodlights will also aid playing during darker winter months, with special acoustic barriers in place to help noise levels with nearby residents.

The new facility was made possible thanks to a £400,000 grant from the Premier League and the FA Facilities Fund, along with a significant contribution by Bury Rangers FC.

Discussing the new facility, Richard Hale’s business manager, Matt Botheras, said: “We would like to thank Stevenage FC Manager, Dino Maamria, for officially opening this wonderful facility and to the Premier League and The FA Facilities Fund for their significant investment and support.

“We would also like to thank the Hertfordshire FA and Bury Rangers FC for their drive, determination and support in bringing this project to fruition.

“The facility will allow year-round, floodlit access for the school and the local community for training and matches across the week and we are already seeing an increase in grassroots participation."

Bury Rangers Vice Chairman, Matt Locke, said:"On behalf of the club I'd like to thank Ivan Bannon, Matt Goodchild and Lee Button from Bury Rangers for their hard work, commitment and tireless effort working with Richard Hale school and Herts FA in making the project a reality.

"Bury Rangers FC is extremely fortunate to have the use of such an amazing facility to help develop its players of all age groups."