HALIFAX TOWN FC are moving to Keighley - to train at Marley coaching centre.

The state-of-the-art all weather pitch and indoor facilities have attracted the Nationwide Conference side which plays at The Shay.

The soccer centre, which last year had £1 million pumped into providing new changing rooms and an all weather pitch, is known to Halifax Town coach and ex-Bradford City player, Wayne Jacobs.

Jacobs was a long standing City player and left Valley Parade last season.

Chris Wilder, Halifax Town manager, is also a former Bradford City full back.

Marley Centre manager, Mick Wood, said: "We are delighted that Halifax Town is coming here - it will lift the profile of the centre. We have superb facilities."

The deal came about following a telephone call from Chris Wilder making inquiries about using the facilities.

"He came down to look and was delighted by what he saw and booked for the season," said Mr Wood.

Marley has a new block of 18 changing rooms and a meeting room plus a new all-weather "field turf"pitch.

The project, completed last year, was funded by the Football Foundation.

The Shaymen will train on the pitch three or four times a week between 11am and 1pm, Monday to Saturday.

Bradford Council's Head of Sport and Leisure Service, Steve Warner, said: "Being the choice of one of the leading Conference clubs is a major boost for Marley, which is now regarded as one of the many top-class recreation facilities in the district.

"Halifax Town has favoured the pitch because unlike older artificial surfaces 'field turf' not only looks, but actually plays like grass.

"Following a generous grant from the Football Foundation we were able to turn Marley into a fantastic facility with increased opportunities for everyone to take part."

Marley boasts an indoor sports hall, 18 new self-contained changing rooms, a meeting room and is one of the key venues in the district that promotes the 'b-active' campaign, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to be active, be healthy and have fun.