A mixed disability team in Sutton will be the stars of the grand opening of a new 3G sports pitch on Sunday (July 16).

The Croygas Sports Club's new pitch has replaced unused tennis courts on Mollison Drive in Wallington.

Manager of disability team Croygas Pirates Bob Watson, told Sutton Guardian: “The players are excited. They feel special to be the first team to play on it.”

Mr Watson said that his “amazing” team includes players with disabilities such as autism, down-syndrome, cerebral palsy and amputations.

“No one with a disability will be turned away,” he added.

The Croygas Pirates play once a month in the Surrey FA Football For All league.

For two consecutive years the club has won the Surrey FA football For All league respect award.

Mr Watson said: “We are not best team but the guys are always smiling. We get on with everyone and we don’t care if we win 10-0 or lose 10-0 as long we're smiling.”

The manager stressed that he “loves” the job he does.

“Without this team these kids can’t play football,” Bob said. “My opinion is that every kid should be able to play football regardless of disabilities.”

Currently there are 14 players in the team comprised of boys and girls with Bob saying he would like more to join.

A friendly match is still trying to be organised but if it doesn’t come to fruition the Pirates will be conducting a training session on Sunday.

The Croygas Sports Club runs over 20 teams and after years of fundraising they have now been able to implement their £250,000 3G pitch.