THE new Horwich 3G pitch is "open for everyone", despite rumours that it was to be used exclusively by sport clubs.

Horwich and Blackrod councillors Ann Cunliffe and Stephen Pickup confirmed that anyone can use the facility, which opened just a couple of weeks ago.

It follows concerns from the community that it would be locked and only available for teams to book out.

Cllr Cunliffe said: "This new facility will support many users and make football accessible in all weathers.

"It is fantastic to have this new state of the art pitch in Horwich for the use of local clubs, organizations and all the community to enjoy a kick around. It is however the responsibility of the whole community to look after their new resource for the continued benefit of all Horwich residents.”

Cllr Pickup said: "The new 3G pitch is a real asset for the community of Horwich and the surrounding area; it is a fantastic new facility and we are determined that as many people as possible will be able to reap the benefits of the new all-weather pitch in Old Station Park.

"Measures are being put in place to deter anti-social behaviour in the park and Bolton Council is looking at plans to further enhance the park in the future for the benefit of all residents."

The statements came after the pitch was recently blighted by litter, causing outrage on social media.

A spokesman from the 3G for Horwich social media campaign said: "The facility is a great investment into Horwich by Bolton Council and was much needed after the loss of other football pitches. It is imperative that it is maintained correctly. With the facility not being properly secured, it has already attracted dog walkers and youths on bikes.

"The facility is something Horwich people should be very proud of and if it is managed correctly, it will be used by many future generations.

"It is also a shame that there are no dedicated changing facilities for senior football players and match officials."

Stewart Burke, secretary at Horwich RMI Junior Football Club, said: "In an ideal world, the pitch would be left open for everyone.

"Unfortunately, as we all know, a small minority can ruin things for the majority and it’s obvious that this is what is happening and will continue to be the case if the pitch is left open.

"We all saw how the old pitch and the equipment on there was mistreated, so we do have a precedent, which makes the policy of leaving the gate open at all times surprising."

CCTV is being installed and an extra bin has been put in place at its entrance in response to the concerns.

The last bookings for the pitch will finish at 9.30pm after which the gate will be locked overnight.

The pitch was created in Old Station Park on the former all-weather pitch.

Horwich Hockey Club was forced to move out of the town as players can not use the surface.

The team is now based at Thornleigh College.