Tom Gordon MP Secures Ministerial Meeting to Discuss Knaresborough Town AFC

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon secured a commitment from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport for a meeting to discuss Knaresborough Town AFC during Oral Questions in Parliament on Thursday, October 17th October. 

Tom recently visited Knaresborough Town AFC, one of the two largest football clubs in his constituency, where he met with the club’s co-chairmen Paul Howard and Nigel Corner. During his visit, Tom gained insight into the club’s positive impact on the local community, including its partnerships with charities like Henshaw’s and its support of groups such as Rainbow Care Dementia, who benefit from access to the club’s facilities. For Tom, it was clear to see that Knaresborough Town AFC is a valuable asset to the entire community, far beyond just football. 

Tom also discussed the club’s facilities with the chairmen, focusing particularly on the challenges posed by the frequently waterlogged football pitch, which disrupts matches and training sessions. Just four days after Tom’s visit, the club had to cancel their game against Bottesford Town due to the condition of the pitch.

Determined to find a solution, Tom is pleased that the Minister has agreed to meet with him to address these issues. 

Tom said: 

‘Knaresborough Town AFC is a fantastic club that plays a crucial role in the local community, far beyond just sport. It was disappointing to learn how often games and training are disrupted due to the pitch being waterlogged. 

‘I’m committed to working with colleagues locally and with the Minister for Culture, Media, and Sport to improve the club’s facilities. My hope is to secure plans for a new 3g pitch in the future to ensure the club can continue to thrive without these ongoing interruptions.’ 

ENDS