Pupils at an Eye school will soon be able to use sports facilities throughout the dark winter months with the development of a new floodlit multi-use astro pitch.

Building work has already begun on the new pitches at Hartismere School, which will be suitable for hockey, football and tennis and will be able to accommodate 11-a-side hockey and football games, as well as having markings for 12 tennis courts.

Sam Beveridge, the school's head of PE, said the new pitches will be in addition to the school's existing sports hall, separate dance studio, two rugby pitches, three football pitches, two five-a-side pitches, three tennis courts and two netball courts.

She added residents would also be able to hire the astro pitches, which will provide lighting for sports games throughout winter.

She said: 'Pupils at the school will now be able to enjoy PE and sport all year round and develop their skills in a state of the art facility.

'The school is extremely positive about the development and look forward to linking with the community to raise the standard of provision in the area.'

The facility is due to open in January 2012 and the school is looking for clubs and individuals to register their interest in using the facility at evenings and weekends. Phone Cathe Burrows, facility lettings administrator on 01379 872325 or e-mail burrowsc@hartismere.com