OFFICIALS at Ilminster Town FC are absolutely “over the moon” at seeing work begin on building their new headquarters at Britten’s Field.

A dream which has been held for years by some of the older members of the club has suddenly started to develop and by May next year, the Gooch Pavilion should become a reality and be open for use.

A ceremonial “first turf” cutting was carried out on Thursday (October 15, 2015) by Heather Virgin of the Gooch Charitable Trust, which has been a big supporter of the project.

Club president Clive Moore said: “After a tremendous amount of effort by a considerable amount of people in the town and members of Ilminster Town Council, we are delighted that building work has started.

"Delighted not just for Ilminster Town Football Club, but for the whole town of Ilminster.

“The Gooch Pavilion is finally becoming a reality. It is a very exciting time for everyone associated with the club.”

The new facilities, which will include changing rooms, a bar and function room, will be operational in plenty time ahead of the 2015-16 football season.

But the club is keen to see the building used throughout the week and a number of groups and organisations in the town have already spoken of an interest in taking advantage of the brand new venue.

Heather Virgin said: “This has been a long-time in the planning, but I’m delighted to seeing it finally taking shape.

“This is not just for Ilminster now, but it will be for the future generations of the town.

“I’m sure the new and improved facilities will help Ilminster Town FC tremendously and it is a club which does so much for the town’s youngsters.

“We’re delighted to be involved in this project which is for the whole community.”

Two of the people synonymous with the football club are chairman Darren Manley and secretary Eric Fish who have been stalwarts for Ilminster Town for many years.

“I’m really pleased to see this happening,” said Darren.

And Eric added: “I’m over the moon.”