Jack Grealish: Take a look at the grassroots football club that the former Aston Villa star helped to save

The regeneration of the grassroots football club in Solihull that Jack Grealish helped to save is due to start in weeks.

The former Aston Villa player, who now plays for Manchester City, backed a campaign to save the gaelic football club - Páirc na hÉireann - near Bickenhill where he played as a youngster.

The future of the Warwickshire GAA club fell into doubt last year when club managers failed to get planning permission for a new clubhouse and pitches.

Grealish issued a statement to Warwickshire GAA at the time saying: “As a boy I spent many happy years playing Gaelic football in Pairc na hÉireann.

“The skills I learned and the encouragement I received helped me become the player I am today.

“Grassroots sports are so important for kids across the West Midlands. Warwickshire GAA is at the forefront of making sure everyone, from all backgrounds, has the chance to play and participate. I fully support the campaign to save Páirc na hÉireann."

Following the campaign, Solihull Council approved the planned redevelopment of Páirc na hÉireann - granting unanimous support for the new development to the south of the current site on Cathreine-de-Barnes Lane.

It means that the future of the site has been securejed, with two new pitches and a brand-new clubhouse facility joining the existing main pitch in a £3.2m development.

Warwickshire GAA Chairperson Michael Collins spoke to BirminghamWorld about the development saying: “The work on the site is coming together really well.

“Work on the all weather pitch is due to begin in the next couple of weeks and it should be completed within three months.

“We’ve worked together with Highways England and the Airport to ensure it fits in with our neighbours.

“We’re expecting the clubhouse to be ready by next April.

“The sport is as popular as ever and our girls teams are really growing. The underage teams for under 7s, 9s and 13s are going really well too.

“We’re always ready to welcome new players, so if anyone is interested they are welcome to get in touch.”

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