Work has started on a new synthetic turf pitch in Cardenden’s Wallsgreen Park.
The new facility, which measures 60 metres by 40 metres, is being funded by Fife Council and will be operated by Fife Sports and Leisure Trust from the nearby Bowhill Swimming Pool.
The eagerly-awaited pitch will be named after the village’s sporting legend John Thomson, the former Celtic and Scotland goalkeeper who died as a result of an accidental on-pitch collision aged just 22.
Thomson’s grave in Bowhill remains a place of pilgrimage for many Celtic fans, and the fact it is just a stone’s throw away is not lost on those behind the new pitch.
Councillor Mark Hood, who chairs the Cowdenbeath area committee and Fife Sports Partnership, explained: “Investing in quality pitches across Fife is a priority in terms of improving access to sport and physical activity for Fifers.
“We know that where we invest in sporting facilities we see an increased attendance and the demand for synthetic pitches can be particularly high.”
Mr Hood said work is due to be completed in May, depending on weather conditions, and confirmed that the facility will indeed be known as the ‘John Thomson Synthetic Turf Pitch’ when it opens.
“It’s set to be another impressive investment that will improve on the provision of pitches in the Cardenden and wider central Fife area,” he added.
Ed Watson, chief executive of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, added: “Managing the new pitch is a great opportunity for the trust and is a fantastic addition to the wide range of programmes and services we currently offer.
“Bowhill Swimming Pool is a much-loved facility and is well used by the local community.
“I’m sure the pitch will encourage even more people to get active and give our staff a chance to widen programme offerings and encourage all ages and abilities to get involved.
“The trust is committed to making a difference by delivering affordable access to physical activity opportunities for the health and wellbeing of the people of Fife and we look forward to welcoming people to the facility.”
Thomson was in goal for Celtic at Ibrox in 1931 when he and Rangers player Sam English went for the ball at the same time.
English’s knee hit Thomson’s head, fracturing his skull and rupturing an artery in his temple. He was rushed to hospital but died that night.
