On the 24th January, James Wild MP paid a visit to Docking Playing Field to view the newly refurbished village pavilion and the state-of-the-art multi-use games area (MUGA), after having worked with its association to support the project’s application.
Welcomed by members of the Docking Playing Field Association, including Chairman David Meek, Secretary Nikki Smith, Treasurer Hugh Williams, and Trustee Simon Walton, James toured the site and learned about the team efforts in bringing the project to life.
The transformation of the old tennis court into a MUGA was supported by a grant from the Norfolk Community Foundation’s Rural Capital Grants fund, alongside additional support from Sport England for energy-efficient lighting. These improvements have created a versatile space now used for tennis, five-a-side football, and soon, walking netball, while also allowing youth football teams such as Dersingham Girls and Docking Rangers to train throughout the winter months.
Meanwhile, community funding from recent residential developments in Docking enabled significant upgrades to the pavilion, including improved kitchen facilities, accessible toilets, and refurbished changing rooms. Local builders, supported by volunteers, carried out the renovations, creating a more welcoming and inclusive space now used for craft workshops, fitness sessions, and other community events.
The success of the project is above all a testament to the dedication of Docking Playfield Association’s trustees, who worked tirelessly to secure funding, organise fundraising events, and rally local support, including a well-received ‘Sponsor a Plank’ campaign.
With regeneration a key part of his Plan for the constituency, and keen to support local initiatives, James was pleased to see the positive impact the project has made thus far and commends the efforts of all involved in realising the project.
Following his visit, James Wild MP said:
"I was very pleased to see the extent to which the revitalised facilities are giving to the community around them, and I commend the association for their hard work and commitment to bringing this project to life.
Now hosting such a wide variety of local groups and events, I have no doubt the facilities will continue to be valued by those of all ages in surrounding areas, and I’m happy to have been able to support the process.”
His visit underscores his ongoing commitment to securing investment for North West Norfolk and supporting projects that strengthen its rural communities.
