Exeter City star returns to open major upgrade at East Devon school

An Exeter City footballer has returned to his former school to officially open a newly upgraded community sports pitch, following a £25,000 investment to improve facilities and cut carbon emissions.

Sonny Cox, who plays for the Grecians and previously studied at Exmouth Community College (ECC), was guest of honour at a launch event celebrating the installation of new energy-efficient LED floodlights at the college’s astroturf pitches. The improvements have been funded through East Devon District Council’s Carbon Action Fund (CAF).

The floodlit 3G pitches are the only year-round facilities of their kind in Exmouth and are used extensively by local sports clubs, schools and community groups. College leaders say the lighting upgrade will secure the future of the site while making it more environmentally sustainable.

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The celebration event was attended by Mayor Graham Deasy, councillors, governors, representatives from the Ted Wragg Trust, student ambassadors and members of the local community.

Students marked the occasion with live music performances, before Cox formally opened the revamped pitch and switched on the new floodlights.

Headteacher Tom Inman said the project would have both environmental and social benefits for Exmouth.

The college estimates the move to LED lighting will save around £7,000 per year in energy costs.

Those savings, Mr Inman said, will be reinvested into widening community access and supporting more sporting activities.

He also highlighted the immediate impact of the improved lighting, revealing that one partially sighted student is now able to fully participate in games on the pitch thanks to the clearer, brighter conditions.

“We’re delighted to have received this vital funding,” Mr Inman said.

“It enables us to take meaningful steps towards reducing our carbon footprint, while also increasing access to sport and investing in facilities that serve the whole community.”

“It was fantastic to welcome Sonny back to officially open the pitch — he’s an inspiration to many of our students.”

The Carbon Action Fund forms part of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme, which provides councils with funding to support local growth, community initiatives and sustainability projects.

Elizabeth Lee, a governor at the college, described the pitches as “a true asset for Exmouth”, adding that the improvements demonstrate the value of investing in modern, sustainable facilities.

“Seeing students and local clubs benefit from upgraded facilities shows just how important these spaces are in strengthening community connections throughout the year,” she said.