Gamesley Community Centre Gears Up for Major Sports Revamp

It’s been nearly a year since Helen Thornhill stepped into her role at Gamesley Community Centre, and in that time, the venue has been transformed into a bustling hub of activity and support for residents of all ages. From advice services and debt support to social cafés, youth clubs, gaming workshops, and even boxing sessions, the centre has become a focalpoint of the community.

“It’s been a rollercoaster, but a great one,” Helen said. “We’ve got so many different activities going on now, something for everyone. The idea is to make Gamesley a place where people can come for support, but also to be social, relaxed, and be part of something.”

But, while the community centre itself is thriving, attention has now turned to the ageing outdoor sports courts, which date back to the 80’s. Once a lively spot for young people and workers on their lunch breaks, the facilities have deteriorated badly. Years of weathering have worn away the wooden boards, leaving sharp splinters and unsafe patches across the pitch.

“Although people still use the courts because there’s nowhere else to go, they’re really unsafe,” Helen explained. “The surface has dips, the wood is rotting, and along the back line it’s so slippery it’s dangerous” Helen said.

The centre is now working closely with the Football Foundation and the Derbyshire FA to replace the courts and rebuild the adjoining changing rooms. The organisations have agreed to cover 75% of the cost through funding, leaving the centre to raise the remaining 25%, roughly £100,000, over the next six to eight months.

Helen and her team are determined to meet that target through creative fundraising efforts and community spirit. One of their most ambitious challenges involves running the equivalent distance from Gamesley to the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, around 3,400 miles, ahead of the World Cup final in July.

“There are four of us taking part,” said Helen. “We’ll each be running around 50 miles a week for 25 weeks! We’ll finish with a 24-hour run around the Gamesley ‘ring road’, and we’re asking local people to join in, even for just a few laps.”

Businesses and residents alike are being encouraged to get involved, whether through sponsoring events, donating directly, or taking part in fundraising challenges. Once complete, the upgraded courts will serve the entire Glossop area, offering safe, all-weather facilities for football, basketball, netball, cricket, and more.

“There are 2,500 homes here in Gamesley” Helen said. “These new facilities will benefit everyone, from walking football for older generations to children’s clubs and community sports sessions. It’s going to make a huge difference.”

Helen remains optimistic about the months ahead. “It’s a big challenge,” she admitted, “but the support we’ve already had has been incredible. I’m sure we’ll get there.”

Residents can follow fundraising updates and event details on Gamesley Community Centre’s & The Glossop Chronicle social media channels.

The link to the Crowdfunder page is https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/road-to-the-world-cup-1