The Dripping Pan
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| The Dripping Pan | |
|---|---|
| Full name | The Dripping Pan |
| Location | Mountfield Road, Lewes, East Sussex |
| Opened | 1885 |
| Owner | |
| Tenants | Lewes F.C. |
| Capacity | 3,000 (600) |
| Field dimensions | ??? x ??? yards |
The Dripping Pan has been home to Lewes F.C. since their incarnation in 1885. It had previously been used by Lewes Priory Cricket Club, though the ground itself had been used by the people of Lewes as a centre for recreation as far back as records exist. The original purpose of the ground is unclear, although local legend suggests that it was part of a salt making industry run by monks from the adjacent Cluniac Lewes Priory, the ruins of which can still be seen from the ground. The spoil from the excavation forms the Mount behind the Clubhouse and both structures appear in the very earliest maps of Lewes in 1745. Indeed, the ground may merely be the excavation pit for the Mount itself, which has been suggested as the original 'temporary' motte and bailey fortress constructed by William the Conqueror's close ally, William de Warenne, before he developed Lewes Castle on higher ground. An archaeological survey during construction of the new terrace failed to reveal any further insights into either the purpose or the age of the ground itself.
Lewes F.C. have played at the Dripping Pan every year since 1885, apart from a couple of seasons prior to the First World War when the club was banished to the adjoining Convent Field.
[edit] Recent History
The Dripping Pan has seen major redevelopment over recent years in order for it to achieve the necessary ground grading to allow it to be used as a football venue in the Conference South and the Conference National. Developing the ground has had its obstacles as the perimeter walls of the Dripping Pan are listed.
In April 2008, the ground was awarded a 'B' grade allowing it to be used in the Conference National.
[edit] Stands
The ground has one covered terraces, one uncovered terrace, a grass bank with walkway, and a covered stand; with a capacity of 3,000 with seated accommodation for 600 in the main stand.
- The Rookery Stand, opened in July 2007 is the newest stand at the ground, replacing the aged wooden South stand.
- The Terry Parris Terrace is a newly built terrace on the east side of the pitch. Once segregation comes into force, this terrace will be used for away fans. There are currently plans to further extend this new terrace.
- The Philcox Terrace is a covered terrace for the home supporters which was opened in April 2003.
- Grass Bank. There are plans to develop the last remaining grass bank, which is situated on the Mountfield Road side of the ground. At the time of writing it is currently possible to spectate a match from the walkway, but the grass verge has been cordoned off.
There is a car park adjacent to the ground with limited parking which is run by the council.
[edit] External links
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Conference South Venues 2007/08
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Avenue Stadium | Beveree Stadium | Borough Sports Ground | The Camrose | Champion Hill | Church Road | City Ground | Clarence Park | Courage Stadium | Cressing Road | The Dripping Pan | Langney Sports Club | Newport Stadium | Nyewood Lane | Park View Road | Silverlake Stadium | Ship Lane | Twerton Park | West Leigh Park | Woodside Park | Woodspring Stadium | York Road |
