A licence securing Appley Beach as the Isle of Wight home of beach soccer for the next 5 years has been agreed.
The Isle of Wight Council has issued the licence – the first of its kind – following 8 months of negotiation between the authority and Isle of Wight Beach Soccer.
As well as providing a permanent home for the sport, the contract, which covers both the sand and storage at Appley in Ryde, means further growth for beach soccer on the Island and the potential for new events.
Isle of Wight Beach Soccer’s general manager, Luke Kerr, said:
“A lot of people have gone to a lot of trouble to make this happen and I’m delighted our hard work has paid off. This is brilliant news for beach soccer and the Isle of Wight.
“Securing a home for the sport will allow further growth within beach soccer on the Island and enhance the development of both our youth and senior players. Now we have the security we have sought for so long, we will soon be in a position to make an exciting announcement about a new event for the Island. Watch this space.”
Councillor Wayne Whittle, member for Ryde North East and cabinet member for tourism, was among the team of Island councillors who helped to seal the deal. He said:
“After meeting Luke and hearing his needs it was a pleasure to help him secure a more permanent and affordable agreement enabling beach soccer to stay and flourish on Appley Beach.
Article continues below this advertisement “Via the new, secure five-year contract with the Isle of Wight Council he can set up and play as many games as required during the five-month beach soccer season.
“I hope Luke can offer more sports and games locally to encourage our Island youngsters to play, keep fit and enjoy our lovely beach.
“I’m proud to make Ryde the permanent home of beach soccer.”
