It was originally a basic football ground known as the Great Western Playing Field and located on the south side of Wharton Road and was used by an amateur football team called the Over Wanderers.

The stadium name derived from the investment from the club's owner Mr R G Barton.

[citation needed] During 1970 the football club agreed to a grass greyhound racing circuit being constructed around the pitch.

Later a totalisator system was installed, along with tote booths and track lighting.

In April 1985 Frank and Doreen Roberts took over the lease from Wally Jerome.