Fit to burst

THE Management Committee at Coleraine FC is hoping that the start to 2010 isn't a sign of things to come.

Having already lost thousands of pounds following the postponement of several high profile games over the festive period, the Bannsiders thought there was going to be light at the end of the tunnel as the temperatures started to rise last week.

However, the thaw brought its own set of problems as the once frozen playing surface resembled a swimming pool as our exclusive picture shows.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And there was flooding in the club too as burst pipes in the Social Club flooded the kit room and changing areas.

Club Chairman Hugh Wade said they are still unsure of how much damage has been caused, but it's another financial headache the club could have done without.

"Our groundkeeper, John McLaughlin, discovered the pipes had burst last Monday morning," he said.

"The water had flooded the kit room and an office. There was quite a bit of damage."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Fellow Committee Member, Nevin Oliver, has appealed to fans to do all they can to support the club during what has been a particularly testing time.

"It really has been a desperate time for the club," Nevin told Times Sport on Monday. "People probably don't realise the enormity of the situation and what effect it has on cash flow.

"This latest set back really is something we could have done without as it's going to cost money to fix as well as causing a lot of disruption.

"And then to make matters worse the Portadown match gets cancelled because they draw in the Irish Cup. It really is sods law.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"We'd just appeal to the fans to support the club in whatever way they can especially by coming to events in the Social Club."

One such event is the forthcoming 'Strictly Come Dancing competition when a few well known faces from Coleraine Football Club will strut their stuff.

Board members, supporters, and businessmen will be taking to the dancefloor to raise vital funds for the club.

The event, on Saturday, February 6, will be held in the Social Club at the Showgrounds. There are a limited number of tickets available, so get yours now to avoid disappointment.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The brave volunteers have all been busy practising, and they will peform a wide range of dances including - salsa, cha-cha, jive, ballroom, Irish and line dancing.

Admission is by ticket only costing 12.50 including supper.

There will be an exhibition on the night by the Bannshee's Irish Dancing group and cabaret by Coleraine's very own pop idol Jason Maguire as well as music by Mark Crawford.

Radio Ulster's Alan Simpson will be the compere for what promises to be a great night.

Tickets are available now from the Social Club and from Management Board members at the Showgrounds.

REPORT: Steven Crawford

Related topics: