Wainfleet Road Playing Fields Skegness History

By Angela Gooch on October 15th, 2009

Wainfleet Road Playing Fields Gates Restoration Appeal

Wednesday, November 11, 2009.

Community pull together to ensure future of gates

AN appeal to preserve a part of local history has received overwhelming support from members of the community.

Mayor of Skegness, Cllr Pat Phillips appealed for donations towards the refurbishment of the memorial gates at the entrance to Wainfleet Road playing fields and in little more than two weeks, the target of £1,980 has already been raised.

The gates were taken away from the site on Friday so that work could be begin on restoring them and they are expected to be back in place before Christmas.

Cllr Phillips said: “This is truly wonderful, and very many grateful thanks must go to those generous people who have ensured the refurbishment of the gates, which will now continue as a lasting memorial to all those who have fought and died in two world wars, and sadly, continue to do so on a daily basis in the current conflicts.

“I also feel that it is quite significant that the future of the gates has been ensured in time for Remembrance Day.”
A mixture of pledges ranging from £20 to £1,000 have been received from local residents and businesses.

The issue of the need for work on the gates was raised at a Town Council meeting last month after it was highlighted that once the new clubhouse building is completed it would be a shame if the gates, first put up in 1954, were still in need of attention.

After hearing that there were no funds available in the council budget this year, members suggested inviting the public to play their part and the appeal was launched.

It is planned that a re-dedication ceremony for the gates will be held once the work has been completed.

The new clubhouse is due to open at some time in Spring 2010.

History of Wainfleet Road Playing Fields

1937 28th April

Playing Fields donated by the 10th Earl of Scarbrough as a permanent memorial of the Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth on May 12th, 1937.

1946 4th December

£3,000 project – plans for the Playing Fields

1947 8th January

Plans take shape for the new playing fields.

1947 5th February

Playing Fields to be a memorial to those who died in war.

(the continuation of this article is unavailable)

1947 5th February

Peace or War Memorial? Ex-servicemen’s concern.

1947 15th March

Donation for Wainfleet Road Playing Fields.

1950 30th August

Future of the Wainfleet Road Playing Fields.

1951 4th April

Council decide to take over.

1951 4th July

The Council and the playing fields – problems resulting from the take-over.

(The photographing of this article has been unsuccessful due to the binding of the old newspaper. However, parts of it are legible, if required.)

1952 13th August

Cost of a first-class playing fields. Immediate needs create problems for Skegness Council Committee. The consideration of a £1,275 racing track deferred.