ONE of the aims of the Stand Up 4 'Stoke appeal was to raise money for training floodlights at Down Grange.

Now the £15,000 needed has been raised, thanks to the efforts of the Sun Life Old Boys (SLOBS) contingent since the appeal's launch in autumn 2004.

Last Tuesday night, players were able to train under the new lights.

The new facility means 'Stoke won't have to use the new main pitch to train on when it's completed, sparing it damage.

Jim Dixon's side can now practise drills and set pieces long into the winter nights.

'Stoke chairman Steve Tristram said: "The enthusiasm the SLOBS have shown in raising this money has been nothing short of outstanding.

"Typically, they have given their all through various functions and fundraisers to contribute in this way.

"We are very grateful as a club for all they have done, and continue to do, on our behalf."

'Stoke are slowly amassing the facilities to make them the leading club in Hampshire, thanks to their appeal, supported by The Gazette.

The club is hoping to raise £250,000 to be able to make other improvements such as a 290-seat stand.

The lights surrounding the new first-team pitch are also up and running. They came courtesy of a £50,000 grant from the RFU after the Hampshire RFU successfully lobbied on 'Stoke's behalf to be the sole club in the county to receive that funding.