Edinburgh's Meadowbank Sports Centre gets new pitch

A government initiative that redirects money from crime into community projects has helped fund a new 3G pitch at Edinburgh's Meadowbank Sports Centre.

The synthetic surface was funded through £300,000 from the Scottish Government's CashBack for Communities scheme and a further £200,000 from the City of Edinburgh Council.

Leith Athletic FC has successfully bid to become the home club for the venue and Edinburgh Council will work with the club and the Scottish Football Association to manage pitch bookings for other users.

Justice secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "It's fantastic to see first-hand how money seized from criminals has been invested in quality facilities the length and breadth of the country.

"These will undoubtedly boost the development of grassroots football and rugby in Scotland whilst also offering local communities opportunities to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles."