SUB-zero temperatures and a dusting of fresh snow could not deter a group of hard-working parents who pitched in to help repair the all-weather pitch at Crosscrake CE Nursery and Primary School on Saturday.

The MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) pitch was created 13 years ago but an inspection last Autumn concluded that it was in a dangerous condition.

Quotes for completely re-building the facility were in excess of £40,000, a figure which included £7,000 for the removal of the worn-out top surface.

After the issue was raised at a PTA meeting, a number of parents stepped forward to volunteer their time to tackle the task of removing the top surface and one, Phil Edmondson, arrived with his agricultural BobCat.

Head teacher Linda Fletcher said: “With the top-level removed, we now have a better idea of the scope of work to get the facility back in use.

“We have engaged with a number of local contractors for quotes and appreciate that it will still be a considerable figure for resurfacing, so the next big push is on the fundraising front.

"We’re incredibly fortunate to have an all-weather pitch at the school, it really has been a brilliant facility.

"What many people don’t know is that our pitch is actually a community resource and available for use by anyone out of school hours.”

The closure of the pitch and need for funds has been quickly noted by the local community. One elderly couple from the village sent in a cheque for £100 to help kick-start the fundraising.

“This was such a generous gesture and completely out of the blue, but typical of so many in the community who help support the school and the children’s activities,” said Mrs Fletcher. “With spring on its way, we are hopeful of raising money quickly so that the pitch can be back in use again soon and the children able to enjoy this facility once more.”

Upholding the school’s commitment to recycling, the redundant matting was taken away to a local farm where it is being re-purposed as an anti-slip surface for cattle in a milking shed.