LED lighting brings brighter times to Rotherham Hockey Club

The old halogen bulbs at its ground at Bawtry Road at Brinsworth are being replaced by up-to-date LED types, delivering better light for matches and training sessions.

It also means Rotherham will be able to host midweek games where possible.

"The LED lighting is a lot better,” said club chairman James Thomas. "We actually played a game under (the old) lights and it wasn’t great. We struggled and the umpires weren’t particularly happy so we had to stop doing them.

"Thanks to the new lights we are now back in a position where we can play midweek games if we want.

"Opposition teams aren’t always available for them but we like them because we get big crowd down. It’s good to have that option there.”

The changes have been made possible by the support of landlords Sheffield Hallam University, who are also replacing the goals.

And there is further positive news about the pitch at Bawtry Road, which was originally thought to be nearing the end of its useful life.

James added: “It was due for replacement in 2027 on a lifecycle plan but we have had a pitch assessment done and been told it doesn’t need touching for at least five years as long as it is maintained, which is great news.”