Football's coming home... to Marke Wood Park!

That's the announcement from Steve Bowers and Bob Chivington who after years of trying to secure a permanent ground for their club are moving into the recreational ground.

The pair who have renamed their club Cinque Ports FC are delighted to be bringing the game back to the spot which was once a centre point for grass roots fixtures in Deal.

They've been working with Dover District Council (DDC) who have agreed to reinstall goal posts and mark out two full size pitches on the large open space.

Now, they're keen to attract new players to join current members as they put together two adult teams ahead of the new season in September.

Mr Bowers said: "We've been in discussions with DDC about a permanent home for our club for years and this here is a continuation of that process.

"They've encouraged us to play here because noone was using it.

"We're delighted with the opportunity and incredible support from DDC, and we hope to see a lot of new faces as well as old."

Mr Chivington and Mr Bowers previously ran Deal Town Rangers Senior Football Club before it was renamed Deal Sports FC.

In addition to the pitch, they plan to adopt the adjacent building to create a club lounge for players which will also serves refreshments to spectators.

The building already boasts both home and away changing rooms, toilets, a kitchen and tea room but general repairs and upgrade work is required to bring it up to scratch. This will be carried out in the coming week along with the creation of a new referee's shower and stud wall.

Mr Chivington and Mr Bowers are also applying for an alcohol licence from noon until 8pm on Saturdays to be able to offer players, spectators and wider members of the community post-game refreshments.

This element they feel is essential for team bonding.

Mr Chivington said: "Our aim is to attract the local community back here, to create a vibrant place for people to come, and to see the space used for what it's actually designed for - recreational activities."

The first training session will be held on Wednesday, July 10 from 6.30pm until 8.30pm with friendly games to follow throughout July and August. It will be free and anyone over the age of 16 is welcome.

Two teams will be selected; one to play in the Kent County League and the other in the Canterbury and District League.

The season will begin from August 31 with regular Saturday morning fixtures.

The club continues to be supported by Jason Jenkinson of Jenkinson Estates.

Read more: All the latest news from Deal