TAUNTON Vale Hockey Club will be the only club in the country with fully LED-lit pitches when the new season gets underway in September.

More than 1,000 people are expected when the Gypsy Lane outfit launches its upgraded facilities at the start of the 2014/15 campaign.

A new hockey pitch will be unveiled as part of a fun day on Saturday, September 6, while Taunton Cricket Club, who are also based at the ground off Greenway Road, Taunton, are playing Lashings All Stars, including former England fast bowler Devon Malcolm, the following day.

The £500,000-plus improvements at the site have been funded by Sport England, England Hockey, the National Hockey Foundation and Taunton Deane Council.

The project has been managed and delivered by Harry Riste, of Rumwell-based Wiseman Lighting.

He said:“Taunton Vale will now be hailed as one of Sport England’s renowned ‘Spotlight Clubs’ on its re-launch date of September 6.

“All are welcome to come along from 10am and enjoy the variety of sports and family activities going on throughout both days, with the official opening hockey game taking place at 4.30pm.

“A hog roast and music will be available during the evening, all topped off with fireworks.

“Many more such exciting events are being planned by the club over the next year.”