The newly revamped Ballymena Showgrounds has been officially reopened, showcasing a new state-of-the-art playing surface and sprinkler system.

The venue was reopened on Friday night, 02 November, ahead of Ballymena United's televised league match against Glenavon. Work began on the project in May.

Ballymena United and the Mid & East Antrim Council hosted a special reception before the game to mark the occasion.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Lindsay Millar, said: "I am delighted the programme of extensive work on the pitch at Ballymena Showgrounds is now complete and everybody involved in this project is over the moon with the results.

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"This work was carried out to the highest standard and involved significantly improving drainage and the quality of the playing surface to work towards meeting European standards. 

"We thank all of our partners and Showgrounds users for their patience throughout the past couple of months. In particular, our thanks to Ballymena United for vacating the use of the arena during the start of the season.

"We now have one of the best playing surfaces in the country.

"Ballymena Showgrounds is a multi-use venue and our council continues to work closely with all users to ensure it remains one of Northern Ireland's premier facilities.

"We look forward to enjoying some first-class sport at the Showgrounds in the weeks, months and years ahead."

(CM/MH)