PLANNERS have scored with a Fareham football club after giving them the go ahead for the first phase of plans for a £1m training complex.

AFC Portchester bosses are delighted that they can push forward with their new senior pitch and floodlights at Wicor Recreation Ground after planning officers approved an application for a sports project that will benefit the whole community.

It has taken six months of hard work, fervent fundraising and careful planning to get to this point, say club officials.

Secretary Paul Kelly is hoping to kick-off the new season on their new pitch.

He said: "We are absolutely delighted that the application was approved.

"The council has been very supportive. There were some concerns about litter but we told the committee that we always clear up after our matches.

"Now we will get together to start work on getting the new pitch under way."

But there is still a long way to go before the club will be able to take the next step for the complex and submit plans for a new clubhouse, changing rooms, gym and bar that will make up the rest of the new facilities.

The 500-strong club was given the chance to expand after being awarded the county's first ever Community Club Award last year.

It will see the FA providing 65 per cent of the total £1m cost if the club manages provide the remainder the the cash.

A huge fundraising campaign, with quiz nights and music gigs was started as soon as they received the award.

Mr Kelly and the team have arranged a host more activities to boost the coffers for the further facilities.

"When the pitch is up and running we will start looking at planning for the gym and changing rooms and everything else.," he said.

"It's great to see how far we are getting. This will be a great asset to the community when its all finished."

Ward councillor Roger Price, said: "It's great news. Having got planning consent they now need to get their funds up together.

"I fully support the training club - it will be fantastic for the youngsters of Portchester."

AFC Portchester has arranged another quiz night for April 29 at the Portchester Community Centre in Westlands Grove. The event for teams of ten, will start at 7.30pm. For details call 07802 605507.