Goosecroft

General Goosecroft Recreation Ground is accessed from Beech Road via a small lane called Goosecroft Lane, and provides the main formal sports areas for the village. As well as the Barn, the Burial Ground, Parish Council offices, Purley Sports & Social Club and sports pavilion, there’s also a large, well-kept sports field, a small children’s play area, a junior/training pitch and the tennis courts.  There are regular Farmers’ Markets and occasional Bank Holiday events at Goosecroft, as well as indoor events in the social club and the Barn. Goosecroft is home to Purley Football Club, Purley Jubilee Football Club and Purley on Thames Cricket Club in their seasons, and to Purley Tennis Club all year round.  It is one of the best cricket fields in Berkshire, and hundreds of people use the combined facilities each month. There is a large car park for visitors but please note that there is a two-metre height restriction barrier on Goosecroft Lane.  If entry for higher vehicles is required, this must be arranged via the Parish Office (0118 984 4507 or 07917 453187) well in advance of the need for access.

Booking

Although the sports clubs have regular bookings of the main pitches and training ground,  it is also possible to book use of pitches for one-off use. To hire the Training Ground (Lower Goosecroft)  please use the Booking Form,  and contact the Amenities Officer at the Parish Office via email or directly (during public office hours).  You will also need to complete a Risk Assessment Form (both forms can be completed electronically and e-mailed to the Amenities Officer as PDFs). The main playing area,  or Upper Goosecroft, can be available, but the booking arrangements differ depending upon the season.  In winter, use the same booking form and contact the Amenities Officer as above.  In summer, the use of the ground is controlled by the Cricket Club and bookings should be made via their officers – see the club’s site for contact details, www.purleyonthamescc.co.uk/