REDS ON ROAD TO START SEASON

REDDITCH UNITED are making plans to play their first two home games of the new season at alternative venues after delays to the renovations at their Valley Stadium home.

The Evo-Stik League Southern Premier side have undertaken a £900,000 makeover of their home ground, installing a new 3G pitch as well as upgrading the changing rooms and other facilities.

It was hoped all the work would be done in time for the big kick off next Saturday with the Reds hosting Chesham United on the opening day, but contingency plans are now being put in place.

It is understood that Redditch are hoping to play the Chesham home fixture at Stratford Town’s DCS Stadium and the following home game against Kettering Town on Tuesday, August 16, looks set to be hosted at Bedworth United’s Oval Ground.

The Reds are hopeful that the Valley Stadium will be ready for the third home match of the season against Kings Langley on Saturday, August 27.

“The monsoon-like weather we had in June meant we lost quite a few days but we have accelerated the process and are getting there now,” chairman Chris Swan told the Redditch Advertiser.

“The problem we had is that we didn’t know how bad it would be until we started looking and the wiring and plumbing have cost an extra £15,000. But we are confident the first home game will be Kings Langley on August 27.

“The work on the ground is going to transform the club. We already expect to have 1,650 people using it a week which includes the first team, boys and girls football, leisure leagues and many others – that works out at 90 hours a week.We only have several slots left to book and Redditch United will become a truly seven-day operation.”