Illuminating news for Vale of Leithen

The Lowland League club sought permission after a ruling last year from the SFA that all licensed clubs must have floodlights at their grounds by this summer.

Failure would have meant Vale’s licence being revoked, which would have led to expulsion from the Lowland League, exclusion from participating in the Scottish Cup and loss of SFA Club License grant, which would place the future existence of the club under severe threat.

However, the Council awarded the Hall Street side £155,000 towards the costs – and made the same award to East of SCotland side Coldstream – before granting Vale consent earlier in the week..

The club also launched an appeal for supporters to contribute towards the floodlights, if possible, having paid out at least £2000 on planning and professional fees.

Construction work on the four floodlight columns and heads should start after Scottish Government COVID restrictions are lifted.

Conditions attached to the consent include an 18-metre height limit for the structures and, when operational, they can only be switched on between 7am and 11pm.

Vale’s vice-chairman, John Anderson, said: “The club can confirm that planning consent and associated building warrants have been approved for the floodlight project.

“With the finance also confirmed from the Council, we are now ready to start works at Victoria Park once COVID-19 restrictions permit.

“This is clearly a crucial step in the project, and we look forward to having the floodlights ready to go for the new season.”

Mr Anderson added: “If anyone would like to contribute to the Floodlight Fund, they can donate via our website www.valeofleithen.co.uk.”

Meanwhile, there has been a further addition to the playing squad for next season, whenever it gets under way, with Donovan Ndiweni joining the Vale from Preston Athletic.

Manager Chris Anderson told teh club website:“I would like to welcome Donovan to the Vale and I’m sure he will make a big impact next season.”