One of Scotland's oldest junior football clubs to take over home turf from South Lanarkshire Council

A long-established football club will take control of its home turf thanks to an arrangement with South Lanarkshire Council.

Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club has been granted a 25-year lease for Raploch pitches and pavilion.

This will allow the team to continue to manage the facility as a going concern for the development of youth football and incrementally invest in the facility to redevelop the pavilion, introduce an artificial pitch and improve parking and security.

Larkhall Thistle chairperson David Cerretti said: “It has been a long journey, but having finally arrived, I can honestly say Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club is thrilled to secure the Raploch on a long-term 25-year lease. This is a major step forward for the club and the local community.

“The new lease agreement ensures we will continue to serve the children and community of Larkhall as a hub for grassroots football and much more.

“While we face many challenges ahead, this stability allows us to plan ahead, look to invest in our facilities, increase participation in grassroots football and, importantly, look to expand our portfolio of delivery.”

Chair of the council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee, Cllr Davie McLachlan, said: “This is great news for football supporters across Larkhall, with the oldest junior club in Scotland securing their home for the foreseeable future.

“I wish the club every success, and I am sure they will continue to grow and help develop the next generation of top Scottish football talent.”