To see the a selection of photos from PEPF, CLICK HERE.
Work is progressing apace on the first phase of the near £4 million Prince Edward Playing Fields development at Canons Park - due for completion at the end of this season.
Paul Fairclough began 2009 in his new role as Chief Executive of Barnet Sports Development, which will run the 44-acre Prince Edward site - which lies between Canons Park Underground Station and Camrose Avenue, Edgware, - and he will be producing monthly reports to update supporters.
Pauls remit is to oversee new state-of-the-arts training facilities for Barnet FC, a Centre of Excellence, a Ladies academy and all-weather pitches.
Funding was in place for this first phase development earlier this season from the Football Foundation, with the Borough of Harrow in partnership with Barnet Sports Development to provide amenities for the community in the area.
The Prince Edward project underlines the continuing ambition and financial commitment of Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous to carry the club forward.
Paul Fairclough visited the complex last week and this is his first report...
"When I visited the site recently I met with the site manager, and I could see that progress had been made from when I visited just before Christmas. The enormity of what Barnet FC are doing here is very exciting and will really provide us with a platform to grow as a club in the future, something which up to now we have not been able to do.
Despite the weather there was a lot of work going on, all over the site large machines and plant hire swing into action. I was particularly interested in the levelling of areas in preparation for the laying of all-weather pitches, which should be ready in April. These will be using the very latest technology; the surface will be "cutting edge".
One of the most exciting aspects of this huge venture will be that the project will allow Barnet FC to compete with other clubs because we should be able to nurture and develop our own players. From a young age we can introduce players into the "Barnet Way", this organic growth will help develop loyalty and devotion to the cause. And frankly doing it this way, we should be able to develop a better quality of player.
Girls and women's football will have their own centre within the complex and I fully expect there to be growth and development in this area also, building on the excellent work and achievements to date. Having a base will bring numerous advantages.
I will be visiting the site on a regular basis and look forward to noting the progress at each stage. I'm sure there will be much to report."
David Bloomfield and Dennis Signy.
