Council’s £9,100 UKSPF grant opens up play for Eastwood Athletic FC’s female teams

The club match funded the grant with a substantial contribution of volunteer time, carrying out much of the work themselves. The grant was made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) from the UK Government.

Eastwood Athletic FC is a family-orientated community club providing football training for all age groups since 2013. Following the club taking on the lease at Basil Russell Park, they are moving all female training to this safe, dedicated community venue. They want to build the club and are actively looking for new players and volunteers by attracting more girls to a healthier lifestyle and offering them an opportunity to meet friends and learn skills for life. They also welcome the involvement of parents and families with the club. Anyone wanting to know more can contact the club at www.eafc.uk (Opens in a new window)

The main part of the grant has been used to install an operational kitchen at the pavilion, including white goods, kitchen equipment, plumbing and an outdoor serving hatch and canopy. The outdoor serving facilities mean that spectators can get hot drinks and snacks during matches. There is also funding to improve the playing facilities including storage and pitch equipment.

The club has already noted increased engagement at football games and it is hoped that this bodes well for the long term.

Leader of Broxtowe Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Asset Management, Councillor Milan Radulovic MBE said, ’I am so pleased that we have been able to support Eastwood Athletic with the refurbishment of the pavilion at Basil Russel Park. Encouraging girls to participate in sport can make a great difference to their wellbeing. Whilst the club is based in Eastwood, I believe this will now be an asset for the whole north of the Borough.’

Domenica Lopinto, Club Founder, Eastwood Athletic FC said ‘Our grassroots club has lots of volunteer involvement, dedication and enthusiasm. This may only be a small renovation but it will have a huge and very positive impact on the community. We’re proud that Eastwood Athletic FC is leaving such a legacy for future generations to enjoy.’

Nuthall Parish Councillor, Philip Owen said, ‘The Parish Council was pleased to support the club’s proposals and lease application. They have brought a vibrant club to Nuthall and the work they have done on the pavilion means we now have a community asset. We wish them many successful seasons and maybe we will see the next Mary Earps MBE emerge from the club.’

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is UK Government funded and Broxtowe Borough Council has been allocated a total of £2,584,477 over a three-year period 2022-25. Activity funded in 2024/5 includes local business, skills and community projects, including a set of community grant-funded projects.