WORK has begun on a school sports pitch that will also benefit the community.

A floodlit Astroturf pitch is being created at St Martin's Ampleforth School, in Gilling East, near Helmsley.

The pitch is part of a series of refurbishments and improvements at the school, which will include the upgrading of boarding accommodation once the new pitch is completed - due to be at the beginning of September.

The pitch will enable tennis, hockey, football and other games to be played all year.

"The pupils are delighted at the prospect of the work beginning as they realise how few junior or prep schools in the country have such a high-grade facility," said a school spokesman.

The funds were raised through wine-tasting evenings, golf days, a dance, a bring and buy sale, as well as donations from present and former pupils and parents.

The pitch will be available for use by the local community.