Pavilion will be brilliant asset to the whole town

IT’S easy to overlook the scale of achievement we’ve seen as the town’s Pavilion in the Park really starts to take shape.

By the time the winter months roll in, we’ll be settling into what promises to be a fantastic new asset for Ashbourne, which has been the result of the best part of a million pounds all being channelled into the community.

For our sports teams, it will mean they can continue to flourish, and progress through their leagues without the embarrassment of crumbling facilities welcoming their guests at the end of each match.

And for our community groups, whether they’re serving young or old people, we now have a new meeting place, which will provide a platform for development and learning, for meeting and gathering, for many years to come.

And this fabulous new building overlooks a facility we often take for granted. Our recreation ground is a massive green space enjoyed by thousands of people, through so many generations.

Whether they’re battling for sporting prowess on the rugby pitch, trying to bowl the winning over at cricket, or even if they’re just walking their dog, people should feel very fortunate to have this well-kept patch of grass on their doorsteps.

Hopefully the completion of the pavilion will give people the incentive to look after the area better, to pick up litter and dog mess, and to refrain from petty vandalism.

It’s an asset we’ve worked hard for, and it’s going to be a welcome and valued addition to the town.