Frome Town Football Club, a cherished local institution, is on the brink of undergoing a significant transformation, courtesy of a substantial £500,000 in community grants. The much-needed renovation is set to take place at the Badgers Hill stadium, the long-standing home of the football club. Club director Lester Silk has indicated that the refurbishment will commence immediately following the conclusion of the current season.
The funding for this ambitious project comprises a £350,000 grant from the government, in addition to a further £150,000 from various footballing bodies. This generous support will facilitate a range of improvements, including the installation of new changing rooms, upgrades to the stadium infrastructure, and the creation of a dedicated classroom space.
Lester Silk, who also serves as the chairman of the supporters’ club, has conveyed his enthusiasm for the impending refurbishment, affirming that the necessary funding has been officially secured. The project enjoys financial backing from the community ownership fund and the Premier League stadium fund, with the Frome Town Community Benefit Society (FTCBS) assuming a leadership role in the refurbishment efforts.
The FTCBS, established to oversee the management of the stadium after its near-closure in October 2022, holds a 25-year lease on the site and is tasked with its day-to-day operations. The club’s chairman, Derek Graham, has expressed gratitude for the remarkable level of support, underscoring the pivotal role played by the town council in safeguarding the club’s cherished home ground.
It is envisaged that the refurbishment works will be concluded by mid-July, with a primary emphasis on ensuring that the football facilities are in premier condition. Lester Silk has also expressed optimism that the enhanced stadium will present new opportunities for the club to host a diverse range of events for the local community.
This momentous development is poised to be a game-changer for Frome Town Football Club and its devoted supporters. The eagerly anticipated refurbishment will not only furnish top-notch facilities for the players but also engender a more inviting space for the community to congregate. With the invaluable assistance of these pivotal grants and the diligent efforts of all those involved, the future appears brighter than ever for this beloved local institution.
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