Kimberley Miners Welfare FC celebrate 100th birthday with completion of ground improvements

Works carried out at the ground over the summer included upgraded floodlights, improved drainage under the pitch, creating a more durable playing surface and improved experience for players, and new pitch barriers, which allow the club to bring in extra revenue from advertising.

The most recent improvements were funded 70% by the Premier League Stadium Fund, with 30% match funding from the Kimberley Means Business Fund.

These complete a year of transformation at Kimberley Miners Welfare Recreation Ground, following the construction of a new pavilion with changing rooms, a bar space, and function room, which was completed earlier this year.

The occasion was marked during their first weekend home game of the season against the world’s first football club – Sheffield FC – on Saturday 29 August.

Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Asset Management, Councillor Milan Radulovic MBE, said, “The transformation at the Kimberley Miners Welfare Recreation Ground over the past year has been remarkable. The new pavilion and improvements to infrastructure have made the experience at the Stag Ground infinitely better for players, the fans, and local community, and I’m positive that these benefits will be felt for years to come.

“Kimberley Miners Welfare FC is an integral part of the community in the town, and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to them, and the Trust, so significantly.”

Mayor of Kimberley, Councillor Nick Dewsbury, said, "It's wonderful to see the official opening of these fantastic new facilities at the Stag Ground. Kimberley Miners Welfare is a vital part of our town's heritage and community, and these improvements will help secure its future for generations to come.

“The support provided through the Kimberley Means Business initiative has been instrumental in making this project a reality, creating a modern facility that will benefit not only the football club but the wider community as well.

“I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and commitment. Today is a proud day for Kimberley, and I am delighted to see the Stag Ground continuing to play such an important role in bringing our community together."

Kimberley Means Business is UK Government funded and is administered by Broxtowe Borough Council in partnership with Kimberley Town Council.