Abingdon RFC have unveiled a new floodlit pitch at Lambrick Way.
The £61,632 facility replaces an old training pitch that had become a potential health and safety hazard.
Abingdon RFC president and RFU junior vice-president Paul Murphy said: “Abingdon Rugby Club has now been transformed from a weekend activity to potentially a seven-day-a-week operation.
“We have increased opportunities to integrate with the local schools and colleges by offering the floodlight facilities for midweek fixtures and coaching.”
The opening day saw Abingdon’s first team defeat Bracknell 3rd 27-14 in BB&O Division 1 South, and then the lights were switched on for Abingdon Colts to host St John’s College, from Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Joining Murphy on the day were local MP Nicola Blackwood, Abingdon mayor Duncan Brown and former club president David Morgan.
The project was funded by the RFU Community Investment Programme, the Rugby Football Foundation, the club, Abindon Town Council and White Horse District Council.
Kidlington-based Speedcut Contractors Ltd laid the pitch, while the floodlights were erected by Nottingham’s Abacus Lighting.
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