BUCKLAND Athletic Football Club is preparing for the new season with the delivery of specialist drainage sand to help maintain the playing surface.

The annual maintenance is supported by clay company Sibelco which has been associated with the football club for 25 years.

The top-dressing sand is used as part of the club's ongoing pitch maintenance programme, helping to improve drainage and playing conditions for the hundreds of players who use the facilities each year, from youth football through to the club's senior teams.

The Newton Abbot club plays an important role in the local sporting community, providing opportunities for players of all ages and serving as a hub for grassroots football.

John Piller, Chairman of Buckland Athletic Football Club, said: ‘Buckland Athletic Football Club would like to recognise and place on record our sincere thanks to Sibelco for their continued support of our club and the local community - a relationship which has now surpassed a quarter of a century.

‘The delivery of top-dressing sand each year, generously supplied free of charge, enables us to maintain and improve the quality of our football pitches for players of all ages.

‘This incredible support, over the last 25 years, benefits not only our three senior teams, but also the many youth teams who use our facilities every week.

‘Sibelco’s contribution plays a vital role in helping us provide a safe and enjoyable environment for grassroots football in the community.

‘We are extremely grateful for Sibelco’s long-standing partnership and commitment to supporting local sport.’

Each year, Sibelco supports dozens of local organisations and good causes and alongside financial donations, the company provides practical assistance and support in kind.

Richard Giles, Kingsteignton Manager (Operations) for Sibelco, said: ‘We believe it is important to support the communities around our South Devon operations and the organisations that help bring people together.

‘Grassroots sports clubs such as Buckland Athletic play an important role in local life. We are pleased to continue supporting the club.’