Campaigners aiming to restore the TV Harrison Sports Ground back to its former glory are asking for help to prepare the pitches for a community football game on Saturday 14th September, writes Keely Bannister.
The game aims to bring the community together as campaigners fight against plans to build houses on the fields once graced by Leeds United starts David Batty, John Charles and Noel Whelan.
The game was announced in a Facebook post by the group’s secretary Lea Westerman:
“Who fancies a game of football on TV Harrison [sports ground] on the 14th September? This can only happen though if we have your help.
“You can go to the ground whenever you want but if you would like to come when we are there, we plan to be there every Tuesday evening from 6pm and hopefully a full day on Saturday 7th September.
“So, if you would like to help, please feel free to come along.
“We also need petrol strimmers, mowers, rakes wheelbarrows anything you have you could bring with you.”
Since its formation, members of the TV Harrison Community Action Group have been working hard to clear the land, which has become overgrown in the 14 years it has been left unused by its owners, the Leeds Schools Sports Association (LSSA).
The LSSA are planning on selling the land to Leeds City Council, which is looking to build 61 council houses on the Oldfield Lane site. The council also owns part of the site.
The group have successfully held a community fun day at the ground, but recently received a blow from Leeds City Council when their attempt to get the ground listed as an asset of community value was rejected.
Now they are hoping the community will back them again in clearing brambles, cutting the grass and litter picking in their bid to get junior football back on the pitches previously been dubbed the “Wortley Wembley” due to the youngsters who graced the pitch and gone on to play for Leeds United.
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