Grassroots sport received a significant boost this week following the news that a Valley Park school had gained a £22,000 grant to install floodlights on its all weather pitch.

Knightwood Primary received the cash from the Football Foundation, the country's largest sports charity.

Work will start during half-term to erect the six columns, mounted wih lights, which will illuminate the school's pitch, which can operate as two five-a-side or one seven-a-side playing area.

The lights should be operational by March and the pitches will be available for community use during the evening.

Headteacher Paul Haydon, said: “We are very grateful to the Football Foundation for this grant because it will help us to offer greater opportunities for sport both within our school and also for the benefit of the local community.”

Paul Thorogood, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: “Knightwood Primary School has been extremely energetic and has worked tirelessly in partnership with the Hampshire FA to secure this funding, and I am thrilled to see their hard work rewarded.”