Marlborough Sports Garden wins ‘Outstanding Sports Facility Award’

Marlborough Sports Garden is in full bloom after winning MyLocalPitch’s November Outstanding Facility Award.

The grassroots sports facility is home to a top class 5-a-side pitch in the shadow of the Shard, which is being upgraded to a brand new 3G pitch in time for the New Year.  5aside.org run several leagues from Marlborough Sports Garden throughout the year for London’s aspiring footballers. They provide FA qualified referees, match balls and bibs.

Marlborough Sports Garden is managed by Bankside Open Spaces Trust, who took over the duties from Southwark Council.

The history of the Marlborough Sports Garden owes its existence to Consuelo, Duchess of Marlborough who decreed that “Surplus land from an insanitary area between Borough High Street and Red Cross Street should be used as a recreation ground”. 100 years later this open space remains a key area for physical activity in the city.

November’s grassroots venue award, which is determined by MyLocalPitch users, was based on pitch quality, venue amenities and customer experience.

MyLocalPitch is a platform for sports players who want to find and book sports venues in London. Users have the choice of over 9,000 of the best venues around the UK for 17 featured sports. The service has most recently launched in Brighton.

Jamie Foale, Co-Founder of MyLocalPitch, commented: “Marlborough Sports Garden is one of London’s best sport facilities for grassroots football. 5aside.org and BOST do a brilliant job running leagues and the experience will be even better once the new 3G pitch has been laid in time for the New Year.”

David Shear, 5aside.org General Manager said: “We feel very privileged to be able to run our social sports league at this unique venue in the heart of the city.  Locals and workers can really benefit from this outdoor space either through football, netball or use of the sand.  The development of the 5aside pitch for the new year means this space goes from strength to strength and we are delighted to be part of that”