Didsbury Sports Ground needs your help to rise again after devastating floods

On the first day of the New Year, tragedy struck Didsbury Sports Ground as unprecedented floods wreaked havoc on this cherished community hub.

Nestled by the river, the grounds experienced a catastrophic overflow, with water levels surging over a meter higher than previous floods.

The damage inflicted on the facilities is both extensive and heart-wrenching, affecting everything from the changing rooms and storage areas to the clubhouse and playing fields.

Didsbury Sports Ground

The impact on the Didsbury community is huge.

This sports ground is the heartbeat of local sports and fitness, home to Didsbury Football Club, Didsbury Toc H Rugby Club, Didsbury Runners, Last Man Stands Cricket, Didsbury Park Run, and Proactive Fitness.

Every week, it brings together 800 residents for sports, fitness, and community events, creating camaraderie and well-being.

The Challenge Ahead

As the waters recede, the scale of the restoration effort becomes alarmingly clear. The grounds are blanketed in thick, waterlogged sludge, and the damage to plumbing, electrical systems, and structural elements is severe. Restoring Didsbury Sports Ground will require: Clearing debris and sludge from the premises, repairing plumbing, drainage, and electrical systems, rebuilding the damaged structures and restoring the playing fields and car park.

With anticipated costs running into tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds, the financial burden is immense. The facility, unable to secure insurance for such extreme flooding, now looks to its community for support.

How you can help

In response to this crisis, the Didsbury Playing Fields Association has launched the “Repair & Rescue Fund” with an ambitious goal of raising £50,000.

Every contribution, regardless of size, will play a crucial role in restoring the sports ground and ensuring it continues to serve as a vibrant community resource.

Your donations will directly fund: Essential repairs to the facilities, restoration of the grounds and drainage systems and ensuring a safe, usable space for all community members.

Why this matters

Didsbury Sports Ground is far more than just a sports facility, it is a place where people connect, grow, and thrive, supporting physical fitness, mental well-being, and community spirit.

The prospect of losing such a vital resource is unthinkable, making your support more critical than ever.

Ways to Support

There are several ways you can help save Didsbury Sports Ground:

• Donate: Contribute to the “Repair & Rescue Fund” via our crowdfunding page. Every pound makes a difference.
• Spread the Word: Share the campaign with friends, family, and local businesses to increase awareness.
• Corporate Sponsorship: Businesses can make larger contributions or donate materials in exchange for publicity.

Visit the crowdfunding page to contribute by clicking here

About Didsbury Playing Fields Association

Didsbury Playing Fields Association, a registered charity, is dedicated to providing and maintaining sports facilities at Didsbury Sports Ground. They are committed to supporting a wide range of clubs and activities, ensuring the community has access to top-quality recreational spaces.

This is a pivotal moment for Didsbury. Join the effort to rebuild and restore the Didsbury Sports Ground, preserving its legacy for future generations. Your generosity and support will help us overcome this challenge and keep the spirit of Didsbury alive and thriving