What is "bellefield"

Bellefield, in West Derby, Liverpool, is Everton FC's former training ground.

Bellefield had been Everton FC's training ground since 1946. It was purchased in 1965 from landowner Mr Tyson and Everton developed it so it was ready by summer of 1966. On 12 July 1966 it was officially opened by Mr J Richards, the president of the Football League.

At the time it was so advanced that the Brazilian national football team used it as a training base in the 1966 World Cup. The Brazilian Football Association was said to be so impressed with the facilities on offer that they took photographs to inspire clubs in Brazil.

On Tuesday, 9 October 2007, Bellefield training ground played host to its last ever senior first team training session. Everton FC moved to Finch Farm in Halewood a day later.

Speaking of the closure of Bellefield, Everton captain Alan Stubbs said:

"It is a really sad day. This place has graced some unbelievable players. I am not in that category. There have been some fantastic players that have played here. There have been players here that come here and it’s been a privilege to have played in the surroundings that they have played in. It is a sad sad day to see the back of Bellefield.