After three years of dedicated planning between local sports clubs and Leaps and Bounds, Ilford Sports Club finally received confirmation from the Lottery Sports Fund that their dream of a new Pavilion at Cricklefield Stadium would be realised.

The £700,000 project will see a complete transformation of the run-down Cricklefield site near llford town centre. Currently a cold, windy arena with makeshift changing rooms, the site will soon boast the highest standards of changing and shower facilities to serve the athletics track and football pitch. The new changing rooms are complemented by a martial arts Do-Jo / aerobics studio and an elegant Cafe-bar for after sport relaxation.

Amidst jubilant scenes, representatives of the many different sports Clubs involved in the project met to share the news. Among them was Leaps and Bounds Director, Henry Woodlock. After working with Ilford Sports Club to develop their ideas, Henry was delighted to witness the excitement.

"This is what Leaps and Bounds is really all about; helping realise the vision of community groups. All the passion and ideas have come from the local people involved. With a little experience and expertise, we have provided the link between the Clubs, funders and designers. I am very proud of what has been achieved so far."

However, it would appear that the successful Club has its feet nailed firmly to the floor. George Hogarth, Chairman of Ilford Sports Club was in sober mood despite the good news:

"We have discussed the building process and the operation of the Pavilion in detail with Leaps and Bounds and we are under no illusions. In some ways, the hard work starts here. We still have a lot to do to provide the level of service we want for local sports people."