Works have begun to enhance the current hockey pitch in Ysgol Afon Wen, formerly known as Hawthorn High School, for school and community use. The Council has received 38% of funding towards for the project from the Pitch Sports Collaboration Group, provided by Welsh Government and administered by Sport Wales in collaboration with Hockey Wales, Football Association of Wales and Welsh Rugby Union.

The re-surfacing project, with some work to upgrade and strengthen the fencing will include new dug outs and new hockey goals. It will be a priority pitch for hockey but will also be available to other sports to book, accommodating schools and the wider community who will also be able to make use of the facility.

The pitch hosts a large amount of community use already and is used daily by the school. Younger pupils will also benefit from this facility as Ysgol Afon Wen becomes a 3 to 16 through school in September.

Councillor Ann Crimmings, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure said: “The hockey facility is already very popular, and this project will provide a modernised space for our local hockey clubs, schools, communities and other sports to continue to enjoy. We are grateful to the Pitch Sports Collaboration Group, provided by Welsh Government, for their investment into this important part of the community.”

Councillor Rhys Lewis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion and The Welsh Language, said: “This project is timely as Hawthorn High School develops into the new 3-16 Ysgol Afon Wen in September. With more pupils to utilise the pitch, not only will the local hockey talent develop, but other sports alongside the wider community will also benefit greatly from this project.”

Joe Gage, Director of Development & Participation at Hockey Wales, said: “We are delighted to see the successful project through the Pitch Sports Collaboration Group at the school come to fruition. This new development not only strengthens opportunities for hockey in RCT but also ensures that the sport is accessible and enjoyable for all ages and demographics. With the ongoing support of Rhondda Hockey Club, Llan Valleys Hockey Club, and Caerphilly & RCT Hockey Club, we are excited to witness the growth of hockey in our communities, creating a thriving environment for both current and future players.”

During the temporary closure, the astroturf at Tonyrefail community school is available to hire for any hockey bookings. The community bookings are managed by Leisure services and any booking queries should be directed to the centralised booking service, [email protected].