A PREMIER League footballer from Herefordshire has contributed to "much-needed" maintenance at his home club.
It has been revealed that Herefordshire-born Jarrod Bowen has contributed to drainage renovation plans at Hereford FC's Edgar Street Stadium.
Bowen, who plays for West Ham United, said he was "delighted" to announce after "lengthy and numerous" discussions with club officials and founding shareholders that he would be contributing to the hallowed turf.
"The planned works are set to begin in the off-season and will be completed in time for the 2026/27 season," he said.
“The substantial period of poor weather this winter and the poor drainage issues with the pitch, which has resulted in numerous postponements, has caused the groundsman (my Uncle Ben) a serious challenge this season."
The 29-year-old, who grew up in Leominster, said it was not only important for the club to play consistent home games on a well-maintained surface, but for him it's "vitally important" for "the youth of Herefordshire to play their traditional finals on the pitch."
“I’ve been lucky enough to have played on the pitch as a junior in these finals and as a senior player at the very start of my professional career, but it was those moments as a child that still hold fondest memories for me and the family," he added.
“I feel it’s a fantastic opportunity for myself to give something back to not only the club, but the community that gave me an opportunity within football."
Chairman of the club, Chris Ammonds said the club is "incredibly grateful" for Jarrod's support, and also extended his thanks to the founding shareholders for their contribution.
"This will make a huge difference to our club after a difficult few months dealing with pitch drainage issues that could not have been predicted and were therefore unavoidable," he said.
“It is also very pleasing that this will have a very positive impact on junior football across Herefordshire, something we are very keen to support as we understand how rewarding it is for the county’s youngsters to earn the chance to play at Edgar Street.”
