Niamh Charles returns to her roots to unveil a pitch named in her honour at Bidston Sports and Activity Centre

Chelsea and England defender Niamh Charles returned home to the Wirral today to unveil a pitch named in her honour, recognising her role in the historic success of the Lionesses. 

Thanks to a grant of £893k from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation, and investment of more than £207k from Wirral Council, Bidston Sports and Activity Centre now boasts a new 3G floodlit pitch. 

This pitch which will provide a significant boost to grassroots football in the local area, and create an inclusive and welcoming place to play for the women and girls that’ve been inspired by the Lionesses’ success.

The Lioness legacy pitches form a key part of the Football Foundation’s HERe To Play campaign, which celebrates the charity’s commitment to delivering grassroots facilities that provide equal access to women and girls.

Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: 

“Niamh and all the Lionesses are a great showcase of just how important quality grassroots facilities are for the women’s and girls’ game. 

"We are delighted that those who have been inspired by Niamh and her teammates will have better places to play thanks to investment from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.”

“This year, the Football Foundation is directing more money than ever before into supporting the grassroots game and every one of the facilities we fund will provide equal access for women and girls. 

"Alongside this commitment, The Lionesses Futures Fund, a £30m cash injection to the Foundation will support the development of at least 30 new state-of-the-art 3G pitches and accompanying facilities - all designed to prioritise women’s and girls’ grassroots football teams.”

The Niamh Charles Pitch will be home to two partner clubs; Poulton Victoria FC and Oxton Ladies’ – both of whom will be using it for training and match play. In addition to this the Cheshire Girls League will use it as a central venue on weekends.  

The project will also have a positive impact on disability and recreational football in the area with targeted programmes delivered by Wirral Sports Development. These aim to engage under-represented groups and boost physical activity in a highly deprived area.