The team got off to a magnificent start winning 16 - 1 against an under strength JL F.C; fellow new comers to the second division. Team captain Adam Booth commented "the result was excellent and underlined the great team spirit and all the hard work the lads put in on the night; especially as we have only played two practice matches prior to our first game!".

The team has twelve league fixtures this season and two cup games with a possible further three cup games if they qualify for the final stages of the cup. The next fixture is Vs Green Army on Thursday 5th August 2010 at 8:50pm.

Good luck to the team for the next game and the rest of the season.

Works carried out included the resurfacing of the 400m 9-lane track with our Polyflex 950-3 sandwich system. Also incorporated within the project was the installation of kerbs, construction of jump pits and run ups, and a new synthetic D.

Thornton Sports sister company GTC Sports Ltd was also involved in this prestigious project, installing a range of sports equipment such as a hammer/discus cage, water jump hurdle, pole & long jump troughs and rugby posts.

The new track has been well received by those who led the project including Culture and Sport Glasgow, together with the Scottish Rugby Union and Glasgow City Council, and members of the local community are already benefiting from the quality of facilities provided.

The works were completed in just three days by a small team of installers. Since installation the court has already been played on and the client, a member of the world renowned British private members club - The Hurlingham Club, is delighted with the quality of the finished product.

Passing our six monthly environmental audit ensures continued ISO14001 accreditation. Furthermore, the annual review of our health and safety systems resulted in renewal of our CHAS accreditation.

These recent achievements illustrate the emphasis placed on both safety and sustainability on every project.

The school are currently having a multi use sports pitch constructed, with our SoccerTurf 40M surface. The pupils were interested to find out how their pitch is being constructed, discover the different types of surface available and see the machinery and equipment that will manufacture the synthetic grass for their own new sports pitch.

Following the visit David Hampson, Head of School for Alder Grange, commented “I would like to express my sincere thanks for the company’s kind cooperation in hosting the visit by our GCSE PE group on Tuesday.  The feedback we received was very positive, with the pupils being very complimentary about your organisation and the quality of the information they received”.

At sites where there are poor or unstable ground conditions, this technique works well, as illustrated at recent projects for Westholme School in Blackburn and Gainsborough Educational Village.

Furthermore, as the technique reduces the aggregate depth required, it can prove very cost-effective in locations experiencing very high value aggregates, as found on our recent projects at Black Lion Leisure Centre in Gillingham and Bexhill High School.

By reducing the aggregate amount required, and subsequently lowering the number of vehicle movements to transport that, this technique is both environmentally-friendly and cost-effective; benefitting Thornton Sports, our clients and the environment.

Approval at this highest possible level, in line with the performance specification recognised by the Rugby Football Union, illustrates the excellent performance of this surface and its suitability for full contact Rugby.

This affiliation means that GTC Sports is now and approved installer of Mondo indoor flooring systems in the UK.

Mondo's range of indoor surfaces includes:

Mondo Zeta

• Parquet timber sports floor
• Total thickness: 41mm
• Ideal for sports halls and training halls
• FIBA approved for international basketball matches

The completion of the MUGA in Autumn 2009 marked the culmination of an exciting vision by the school to develop an existing natural grass area on the school site. An initial site inspection by one of Thornton Contract's experienced Contracts Managers led to a detailed design being put forward complete with precise costings. Following further consultation with our dedicated team, the school officially appointed Thornton Contracts to carry out the project. 

The Product

The MUGA, including two recessed areas to accommodate goals, is surfaced with our 'Classic 10' synthetic grass. This surface has proved to be a fantastic option particularly in primary school situations. It can be installed without any sand infill which eliminates the chance of eye irritation by young users. Without sand infill this also proves beneficial to the school caretaker as this means minimal maintenance is required. Furthermore, being UK manufactured, the selection of 'Classic 10' not only helps to support the UK economy but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the school.

An in-situ rubber shockpad layer was installed beneath the synthetic grass to ensure a more cushioned feel which will enhance the playing characteristics of the surface for sports such as 5-a-side football.   

The 300+ pupils at the school are certain to reap the rewards of the new MUGA for many years to come which means that physical education will be maintained whatever the weather.

Gol is the premier 5-a-side company in Wales, and the Newport facility represents repeat business for Thornton Contracts following the construction of a similar centre in Cardiff in 2006. Gol Centre Newport boasts six 5-a-side courts and one 7-a-side court as well as two changing rooms with hot showers, a licensed bar, children's party area and ample parking.

Following an initial site survey, Thornton Contracts worked closely with Gol to put forward detailed plans from which this impressive facility was to develop from. Our "SoccerTurf 50M" 3rd Generation synthetic grass was selected as the preferred surface. With sand and rubber crumb infill, "SoccerTurf 50M" looks, feels and plays like natural turf.

The pitches are surrounded by carefully designed fencing incorporating timber rebound boards to the lower sections and roof netting to completely enclose each pitch. To maximise usage, a floodlighting system was installed with the lamps being fitted onto specially installed raised height fenceposts, to provide a neat design solution.

The facility is anticipated to be intensively used, with local footballers eagerly awaiting the experience of playing on SoccerTurf. Pitches will be available to hire for one day tournaments and competitions, children's parties and weekend soccer schools as well as hosting various Gol Centre leagues.

Gol Centre Newport represents another notable 'design and build' project for Thornton Sports, and without a doubt has marked the dawn of an exciting era for local footballers.

The synthetic pitch, located next to the school, is set within a residential area. Its former out-dated floodlight scheme, with lamps that created a significant amount of light spillage, had caused excessive light pollution in the local area for many years. So much so that one local resident, and keen astronomer, had started a personal campaign in 2007 to see if improvements could be made.

With school funding obtained for the construction of the new pitch, by Thornton Sports, emphasis was placed on ensuring lighting would be improved at the same time. The installation of low glare, full cut-off, double asymmetric beam floodlights resulted in the lighting being directed onto the pitch while the dark sky quality overhead was improved.

Local resident, Chris Reeves said ‘‘I am grateful that Lymm High School obtained funding for the new lighting and delighted with the superb installation – an excellent result for the Campaign for Dark Skies. Well done!’’

The difference has been clear for all to see with the project receiving coverage on BBC TV regional news. The new floodlighting solution, installed by Thornton Sports has been good for the school, the sporting community, the local environment, local residents and, of course, good for local astronomers too. Stars all round!

(Before and after photographs courtesy of Macclesfield Astronomical Scoiety - www.maccastro.com)

In Summer 2009 Thornton Contracts Ltd successfully completed the construction of a full size synthetic grass pitch and a block of 6 macadam tennis courts for Westholme School in Blackburn. With these new facilities the school, which has been awarded the prestigious Gold Mark Sports Award, will now be in a position to host high profile tournaments with other schools for hockey, netball and tennis.

Jeremy Hunt MP, Shadow Secretary for Culture, Media and Sport, unveiled the new facilities on Tuesday 29th September.

The Product

The first-class playing surface is surfaced with Thornton Sport's 'Premier 10' sand dressed product, which incorporates an LSR yarn and a unique backing system to improve drainage. Furthermore, the manufacture of 'Premier 10' in the UK helps to reduce carbon footprints.

The Response

Mr John Henwood, Bursar for Westholme School, was so impressed with the works that he commented on the Independent Schools Bursar Association website:

"Having just completed on a complex and technically difficult project to convert a heavily sloping clay field I am very happy to recommend Thornton Contracts Ltd if anyone is considering such work. We are delighted with the work Thorntons have done and their wilco attitute. I am happy to discuss with anyone by email or phone."

The new facilities will enhance Westholme School's reputation as a centre of educational excellence, and add to Thornton Sport's impressive portfolio of independent school clients.

On Friday 25th of September 2009 the brand new 3rd Generation synthetic grass pitch was officially opened at Birchwood Community High School; by Andy Gatcliffe; the Chief Executive of Super League team and recent Challenge Cup Winners Warrington Wolves.

The ceremony marked the culmination of an excellent partnership between Thornton Sports and the school; with Thornton Sports providing assistance from the initial planning stage including providing detailed AutoCAD design drawings.

The Surface:

The chosen surface was Thornton Sport's "SoccerTurf 40M" 3rd Generation sand/rubber filled synthetic grass which satisfies both F.A. and F.I.H. performance requirements. Furthermore; being manufactured in the UK, this aided in the reduction of the schools carbon footprint.

The Response:

The new surface is already making a major impact. Ralph Johnson; Business Manager at the school commented; "the feedback we have had from our learners and community users has been very positive with everyone raving over the fabulous surface".

During the opening ceremony the Head Teacher; Ms. Anne Bright made a special reference to Thornton Sport's construction works being both on-time and within budget.

The new synthetic pitch marks an exciting time for the school and also another successful "SoccerTurf 40M" installation for Thornton Sports.

Flexiflor® Safety Surface has been specifically designed by GTC Sports as an impact absorbing system of surfacing for children's playgrounds. This is a multi-component polyurethane/rubber composite, which is formed 'in situ' by chemical mixing, wet pouring and leveling, and a screeding and rolling process. This provides a durable, easy to maintain play surface.

As the photographs show, the surface finish is of the highest quality and the entire area looks wholly suitable for a children's play area. The graphics are also, as you can see, expertly applied to the surface, which makes the play area more enjoyable for the children that will use it.

After reading this article, should you have any enquiries about Flexiflor® Safety Surfacing, please do not hesitate to contact GTC Sports on 01282 777 678.

As you can see from the photographs, the installation at St. Peter's illustrates the excellence of GTC Sports' refurbishment works. The finish is of a high standard and is an example of what a sports hall floor can, and should, aspire to be; aesthetically pleasing and, more importantly, fit for purpose.

The sanding, line marking and re-sealing of timber sports hall floors is just one of the refurbishment services GTC Sports are able to offer. For more information regarding the repair, refurbishment or new installation of point, area and mixed elastic sports hall flooring systems, please call GTC Sports on 01282 777 678.

Supplied and installed to 'UK Athletics' standards, the 9/7m metre throwing cage is a welcome upgrade to the facilities at Sutton Leisure Centre. As the photographs show, both the groundwork and equipment specification have been completed to a very high standard, giving the staff and members an excellent hammer/discus facility.

In addition to the 9/7 metre cage installed at Sutton Leisure Centre, GTC Sports can also offer 10/7 metre cages, which can be installed to 'IAAF' standards, if required.

To compliment the throwing events, GTC Sports are also able to provide a full range of athletics equipment and facilities to suit the following:

• Long/triple jump
• Pole vault
• High jump
• Track events
• A multitude of supporting equipment: trollies, shelters and covers, amongst others
• Facilities for disabled athletes

Flexiflor® is designed and installed to combine high quality multi-sport performance with minimal maintenance requirements throughout the range. Using Flexiflor® P.U. as an example, this desirable combination is made possible by the very nature of the seamless surface itself, which is wet laid onto a suitable sub-base that has been prepared in accordance with installation guidelines set out by BS EN 14904 2006.

The absence of seams and the point-elastic qualities of the polyurethane material make Flexiflor® P.U. the ideal flooring system for multi-purpose use in any indoor sports environment.

Also, when any of the Flexiflor® range is used in conjunction with our own registered floor protection system, Flortector®, the flexibility and versatility of the indoor sports environment is enhanced even further, adding the ability to host examinations and stage various other events without the risk of damage to the underlying floor. 

Fibrelastic® which involves the use of polyurethane fibres in addition to polypropylene fibres, was introduced following an encouraging two year fibre reinforcement research programme by the STRI.

Dr Vic Armond from Mansfield Sand Company says: “The Fibrelastic® Turf surface has all of the attributes provided by a typical fibre reinforced, sand dominant rootzone but most important of all, it is more player friendly because of the reduced hardness and extra resilience of the surface.”

Key Benefits of Fibrelastic® Pitches

• Enhanced cushioning effect reducing surface hardness
• Player friendly
• Increased Live grass cover
• Improved traction

Recent projects:

• Llanelli Scarletts
• Oulder Hill High School
• Mellish Fields
• Buckshaw Village
• Rugby School
• Harrow School
• Leckwith Stadium

For further information contact info@thorntonsports.co.uk, call 01282 777345

ISO14001 is the current environmental management system standard, designed to help companies achieve consistent environmental compliance, together with continuous improvements in environmental performance.  ISO14001 accredited companies confirm that they have recognised the potential environmental impact of their activity and are committed to managing and reducing this impact with meeting or exceeding legislative requirements.

Thornton Sports as a group are committed to reduce, re-use and recycle where possible and have already implemented environmentally friendly initiatives within their construction and manufacturing processes.

David Saxby Managing Director   “ With more and more emphasis on sustainability, the achievement of ISO14001 accreditation is a key step in the Thornton Sports objective to minimise our impact on the environment.  This is a very important accreditation and we are proud that we are one of the first in our industry to lead in this initiative”.

Thornton Sports Ltd specialises in the design, construction and installation of surfaces for sport, UK manufacture of synthetic grass and provision of maintenance and equipment for sports surfaces.

For further information email Joanna Marshall on info@thorntonsports.co.uk

Thornton Sports will be exhibiting their sports surfaces, construction, maintenance, sports hall flooring and equipment at the forthcoming exhibitions:

Sports and Play Construction Association Exhibition, Tuesday 30th June, Ricoh Arena, Coventry

Institute of Groundsmanship - IOG Saltex, Windsor Racecourse, 9th to 11th September 2009

Come along and discuss with one of our team your sporting project requirements:

If you require any further information please contact info@thorntonsports.co.uk or call us on 01282 777345

For further information contact karen@thorntonsports.co.uk or see Burnley FC's official website www.burnleyfc.com

Bespoke orders are also welcomed as many of the machines have been designed or adapted to suit customer specific requirements.

The range of products is as follows and includes the exclusive TG3 Grooming Machine

• SGE-M0300 – TG3 Grooming Machine,
• SGE-M0301 – Leaf Blower,
• SGE-M0302 – Power Mower,
• SGE-M0303 – Towed Sweeper,
• SGE-M0304 – Arena Maintenance Unit,
• SGE-M0305 – Fertiliser Broadcaster 50ltr, 
• SGE-M0306 – Fertiliser Broadcaster 100ltr, 
• SGE-M0307 – Guard for Fertiliser Broadcasters, 
• SGE-M0308 – ATV/Quad Mounted Sprayer, 
• SGE-M0309 – 3 Point Linkage Mounted Sprayer, 
• SGE-M0310 – Small Salt Spreader,
• SGE-M0311 – Combination Grass Care System, 
• SGE-M0312 – Hard Surface Towed Sweeper, 
• SGE-M0313 – Triangular Brush, 
• SGE-M0314 – Power Sprayer and
• SGE-M0315 – Powered Sweeper. 

For further information please contact us on 01282 777 678 or email: gtc@thorntonsports.co.uk

Designed to be mounted onto an appropriate tractor using two heavy duty 'U' Bolt brackets, the upright rolls along the device with the aid of the tractor roll bar before being lifted off by a

suitable number of persons (the tractor must ideally be fitted with an angled or adjustable roll bar, brackets will fit up to a 60mm square bar).

A minimum of two people should always oversee the safe erection or dismantling of the rugby posts. Never allow the tractor's speed to exceed walking pace; we recommend that the tractor moves no faster than 3mph.

The Hinged Post Assembly Roller is  manufactured from steel and fitted with a rubber roller, a quick release webbed safety strap and two 'U' bolt

Product Code Ref: OSE-R1490

Please Note: The device is designed for use with hinged uprights only, we do not recommend the use of the Hinged Post Assembly Roller with standard socketed uprights.

For further information please contact us on 01282 777 678 or email: gtc@thorntonsports.co.uk

All the artificial grass we supply can be installed by our specially trained staff at a very reasonable cost. Have a look for yourself at www.leaveusalawn.co.uk

The list, compiled by Haworths Chartered Accountants, ranked companies by pre-tax profit. These figures were compiled using the latest data publicly available with additional research based on accounts filed at Companies House.

The short-listed companies were reviewed by a panel comprising Haworths Chartered Accountants and Lancashire Business View.

For further information contact info@thorntonsports.co.uk

STONYHURST COLLEGE

CLITHEROE TENNIS CLUB

LLANELLI SCARLETTS

We offer an extensive range of products including synthetic grass pitches, tennis courts, athletics tracks and multi use areas. Our synthetic grass pitches have been manufactured in house since 1981 by Nordon Ltd, a member company. With over 30 years experience and the combined expertise of 4 companies we are able to offer our customers a 'total solution'.

David Saxby, Managing Director "Although given current difficult trading conditions, I am pleased that Thornton Sports continue to maintain a significant presence in the market place"

Recent contracts awarded include:

• LLanelli Scarletts Stadium - Athletics Track and natural grass pitch plus sports equipment
• Warwick School, Redhill, Surrey - long pile pitch plus sports equipment
• Corinthians Sports Club, Kent - 3rd Generation Pitch
• 3 x North Ayrshire Local Authority Schools - 3 x 3rd generation pitches and sports equipment
• Salford Schools BSF - 2 synthetic pitches and 2 macadam MUGAs
• Bishop Burton College of Agriculture - 3rd Generation Pitch
• Stockport Road, Denton - 3rd Generation Pitch
• St Johns C of E School, Worksop - 2 x sand-filled MUGA
• Scarborough Council -MUGA
• Welland Park College, Market Harborough - Sand Filled synthetic pith
• Badminton Centre, Hull - Sports Hall floor refurbishment
• Leeds United Football Club - Sports Hall flooring refurbishment
• Morton Stadium, Dublin - 10/7m hammer/discus cage
• Stonyhurst College, Clitheroe - Cricket Wicket refurbishment
• Wallsall Sports Club - Cricket Wicket refurbishment
• Nonsuch High School, Cheam - Sports Equipment
• National Sports Centre, Isle of Man - Full sized pitch replacement using our Premier 20 surface
• Reigate Grammar School - Pitch Replacement

For further information please email info@thorntonsports.co.uk

At the event, we will be exhibiting:

• Sports surfaces and maintenance operation 
• Leave Us A Lawn our brand new artificial grass product designed for gardens, pool surrounds, play and all domestic/commercial areas.
• The TG3 Grooming Machine for long pile artificial surfaces, exclusive to Thornton Sports

Visit www.iogsaltex.co.uk for further event information

 Please email info@thorntonsports.co.uk for further information.

The TG3 is available in two sizes to facilitate full size pitches; small MUGAs and 5 a-side areas where access is limited.

The TG3 has a wide range of functions to cater for all aspects of maintenance of a rubber filled surface. The unit can be coupled to any tractor or suitable motorised unit by means of either 3 point linkage or by tow pin or tow ball. The unit is light and easy to use and can be stored with ease using a minimum amount of space.

OPERATIONS OF THE TG3

The TG3 has been designed for a number of operations and these are as follows;

• The tines on the front of the machine will allow decompaction of the rubber which will result in greater drainage and a more level look and feel to the surface.
• The levelling bars will replenish the pile evenly to maintain the correct surface level. The rear brush will lift the fibres and brush the granules giving the desired look and presentation to the pitch.

We at Protech Allweather use this machine in our day to day maintenance contracts and are the sole users of the TG3 unit. We would be happy to demonstrate the TG3 and discuss maintenance of rubber filled synthetic surfaces with you.

For further information please contact Protech AllWeather on 01162 886782 or GTC Sports on 01282 777678 or email: gtc@thorntonsports.co.uk