RYDE'S Appley Beach will remain the home of Isle of Wight beach soccer for the next five years.
The Isle of Wight Council has rubber-stamped a five-year licence — the first of its kind — following eight months of negotiation between the authority and Isle of Wight Beach Soccer.
As well as providing a permanent home for the sport, the contract, which covers both the sand and storage, means further growth for beach soccer on the Island — and the potential for new events at Appley.
Isle of Wight Beach Soccer general manager, Luke Kerr, was over the moon.
He said: “A lot of people have gone to a lot of trouble to make this happen and I’m delighted our hard work has paid off.
“This is brilliant news for beach soccer and the Isle of Wight.
“Securing a home for the sport will allow further growth within beach soccer on the Island and enhance the development of both our youth and senior players.
"Now we have the security we have sought for so long, we will soon be in a position to make an exciting announcement about a new event for the Island. Watch this space.”
Cllr Wayne Whittle, the Isle of Wight Council member for Ryde North East and cabinet member for tourism, was among the team who helped to seal the deal.
“After meeting Luke and hearing his needs, it was a pleasure to help him secure a more permanent and affordable agreement to enable beach soccer to stay and flourish on Appley Beach," explained Cllr Whittle.
“Via this new, secure, five-year contract with the Isle of Wight Council, Luke can set up and play as many games as required during the five-month beach soccer season.
“I hope Luke can offer more sports and games locally to encourage our Island youngsters to play, keep fit and enjoy our lovely beach.
“I’m proud I've been able to help make Ryde the Island's permanent home of beach soccer.”
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