St Bede’s Roman Catholic High School and Specialist Sports College in Blackburn is to unveil its new all-weather pitch tomorrow, which was funded by a £285,250 grant from the Football Foundation.

The school will establish links with local primary schools and the Blackburn Rovers Football in the Community scheme, which will use the site for community coaching and training initiatives.

Particular emphasis will also be placed on the development of football among females in the area.

The Football Foundation grant was provided as part of a £30m fund to boost school sports and lead the development of the game within the community.

Peter Lee, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: “These superb new facilities will establish St Bede’s at the forefront of community sports provision in Lancashire.

“It is essential that all young people – regardless of ability – have access to modern facilities; not necessarily to be the best, but to enjoy sport and to gain the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.”

The pitch will be officially opened by Gordon Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Players Association and Football Foundation Community and Education Panel member.