Harry Redknapp launched the new and improved Elliotts’ Fordingbridge branch at a customer event recently.

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

Elliotts invited customers and The Mayor of Fordingbridge to the branch to raise a glass to celebrate the new look. Mr 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.”

Over the past few months, major work has taken place at the Fordingbridge branch. The event was held not only to celebrate the refurbishment but to thank customers for their patience during the build. Situated in the heart of the Fordingbridge community, the branch has been open since 1989.

Mr Tague, branch manager of Elliotts Fordingbridge, said: “The event was very successful and I want to thank our customers who came along. It was great to have Harry celebrate with us and cut the ribbon. He even told us a few football stories and signed footballs for the kids.”