Dog racing returns to the Boulevard after several years

The Boulevard Stadium had been home to dog racing and rugby club Hull FC until October 2002.

Since then grass on the pitch had grown several feet high and the stands had become dilapidated.

After a £250,000 refurbishment the venue reopens as a community stadium for amateur rugby and dog racing.

Operations manager Shaun Rennison said: "It is substantially different to how it was before.

"We have refurbished the public areas of the stadium, built new kennels and improved the track."

All parties involved want to see a community sports facility in the area Coun Andy Sloan

The ground has had its National Greyhound Racing Club licence reinstated and managers said a donation to help rehome retired greyhounds would be made with every corporate package sold.

Councillor Andy Sloan, who is responsible for regeneration in the city, said: "The idea was always to put the Boulevard to good use once it had been made safe.

"I'm pleased there is the opportunity to continue with the dogs and youth rugby.

"It is only a three-year lease, but all parties involved want to see a community sports facility in the area."

Alan Parker, chairman of Hull Youth Rugby, hopes teams will use the ground for big matches.