FOOTBALL manager Harry Redknapp launched the new and improved Elliotts’ branch in Fordingbridge.

The Birmingham City Football manager joined branch manager John Tague and sales director Paul Cleary to cut the ribbon in true builders’ style, with a jack saw, mini chainsaw and bolt croppers.

Elliotts, an independent supplier of building products, also invited customers and the Mayor of Fordingbridge, Cllr Malcolm Connolly to showcase the new look branch on Thursday, May 11.

Harry Redknapp spoke to guests after cutting the ribbon and talked about his fond memories of football training in Fordingbridge.

He said: “All those years ago when I managed Bournemouth, we had nowhere to train pre-season – we never had a training pitch! John fixed us up so that we could train on Fordingbridge Rec for six weeks.

“I’ll never forget what John did for me then, what he did for the football club. When he asked me to come along today, it was a pleasure.”

The Fordingbridge branch has been open since 1989.