Newcastle Blue Star have launched a campaign to raise £100,000 from 100 local businesses to redevelop their main playing surface. Each business is being asked to pledge £1,000, with the club saying flexible payment options and plans are available.
The club said the new surface would be of Professional Academy quality, with inbuilt irrigation. It described its current pitch as well maintained and praised its grounds team, but said the stadium sits on former mine and landfill land, creating conditions beneath the pitch that "cannot simply be solved through routine maintenance".
A more reliable pitch would cut weather-related postponements and allow for regular training, the club added. It pointed to the growth of its junior section, which now runs teams from Under-6s to Under-18s alongside senior men's and women's football.
In return, each participating business will receive a five-year season ticket and a dedicated seat in the Alan Smith Stand, along with its name or business advertised within the ground for five years. Businesses interested in taking part have been asked to contact the club at nbsfc2018@gmail.com.