Tonbridge have switched their opening game of the season due to a potential delay in completing the new 3G pitch at Longmead.

Angels were scheduled to start their National South campaign at home to Weymouth on August 6 but the game will now be played away, with the return on December 10.

Supply issues, coupled with the extreme temperatures, mean Tonbridge can't guarantee the pitch will be ready for the first game of the season.

In a statement on their website, the club said the shock absorption layer of the pitch is failing to cure on schedule because of the heat.

This, in turn, is preventing contractors Slatters from installing the final carpet layer.

Chairman Dave Netherstreet said: “I am very disappointed that this decision had to be taken as so many people, contractors, volunteers and staff, have worked so hard to meet the August 6 date and up to four weeks ago there was still the belief that this date was attainable.

“Unfortunately, due to material supply problems and the extremely high temperatures that have been forecast the risk that the ground would not be ready to host the game was one that the board felt could not be taken.”

Tonbridge’s first home game will now be the visit of Hampton & Richmond on August 20.

An open day, allowing fans to view the pitch and meet manager Jay Saunders and his squad, will take place as scheduled from midday on July 31.