Andrew Gilchrist, the Central regional manager for the Scottish FA, said: “This investment is fantastic news. The creation of the new training area at Allandale will allow for a number of teams to train at the club's home facility at Allandale as opposed to going to other facilities. “It is also further recognition of the hard work undertaken by the club and its creative partnership with the Falkirk Community Foundation in achieving the Community level of the Quality Mark Award.” The Scottish FA’s facility manager Cameron Watt said: “This project is another great example of a community football club taking a lead role in delivering a quality facility that can be utilised by all. “It's important to remember that this type of project can also make a significant contribution to the 'active nation' agenda and the Scottish FA is delighted to be able to play it's part in this by supporting clubs with their facility-related aspirations.”

Graham Wright, of Steins Thistle, said: “The club has come a long way from its original set up and the help and support from the Scottish Football Association regional development team has been instrumental in getting these 21st Century facilities in Allandale.

"It is particularly pleasing for me to see the fruits of all the club’s efforts in achieving the Scottish FA Quality Mark Accreditation paying handsome dividends.” Keep up-to-date with the latest football activity in central Scotland by following @sfa_central on Twitter.

Pics by Falkirk Herald/Gary Hutchison