History on sale at latest 3G converts

By David Watters

Margate are planning to sell off their Hartsdown Park turf to fans after announcing they'd be playing on 3G when they return to the Ryman League's top flight.

With the club set to start pulling up the pitch on Thursday before installing the latest artificial surface this summer, officials at the relegated National League South club say supporters will be able to purchase their own very piece of history.

Expected to take between eight and 10 weeks in time for the big kick off to the new season in August, specialists S & C Slatter are carrying out the work and Gate officials are looking forward to their new state-of-the-art facility generating a valuable new income stream by being available for up to 50 hours a week use by the local community.

Margate chairman Alistair Bayliss told fans: “This is a massive commitment from the new owners that have demonstrated in their first few weeks in charge that they are serious about moving this club forward as a project. The installation of a new 3G surface will be the start of this club growing in stature both in football terms, financially and the local community.

"Without going into too much detail, this is just the first part of the plans. It is a hugely exciting time for the club and more importantly, the local area. I genuinely now hope people will realise how important this club will be to the community and get involved."

He added: “These types of pitches are becoming more familiar at this level and I think for clubs looking to grow this is the type of model that will become even more popular.”

Margate are returning to the Ryman League's top flight three years after winning promotion via the promotion play-off final with a 1-0 win over Hendon following a third-placed finish to the 2014-15 campaign.

Images courtesy of theballissquare.co.uk

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