LEIGH RMI are hoping that improvements to their pitch will tempt Wanderers back to Hilton Park writes David Magilton

Manager Mark Patterson wants the Railwaymen to re-establish a close bond with its Premiership neighbours which could see a return for Wanderers' reserves.

The uneven playing surface has come in for heavy criticism in football quarters but work started last week on getting it flat.

"The ground is being done and next season we will have a flat pitch," said Mark Patterson. "Work was started on it last week. Directors of both the rugby and football clubs have put their hands in their pockets to pay for it.

"Wanderers reserves have already got Leyland's FA ground fixed up for the coming season but if there is ever a time when they are struggling for a pitch, I would like to think that Neil McDonald would phone me up and ask if the reserves could play at Hilton Park.

"We have missed the chance this time, but if we spend the money on the pitch over the next 12 months that we should be doing, then Bolton could say 'yes' for the following season. Improvements to the changing room and showers will also help.

"I want to get that connection back with Wanderers. We had it two or three years ago and for whatever reason we have drifted apart."