It was a bumper attendance at Abbotskerswell CC on Monday, 29 June, as groundskeepers from across the county were given practical guidance on pitch preparation, repairing and retiring.

Among the 28 attendees last week were several junior volunteers from clubs who were given hands-on exposure to grounds machinery and tools used to get a pitch ready for action. One young volunteer commented that they hadn't realised the number of steps needed over a ten-day timeline to prepare a decent playing track and how important it was to make sure the grass was made to grow vertically to provide a constantly performing pitch.

Grounds Management Association (GMA) Regional Pitch Advisor, Phil Jeggo, and County Pitch Advisor, Paul Mitchell, led the session effectively, and there were plenty of opportunities to discuss practical tips and techniques along the way.

Participants commented that the evening session allowed more volunteer groundskeepers to attend, and the session was made more interactive as a result.

"It was a fantastic opportunity to pick the brains of the GMA's Phil Jeggo and ground staff around the county who have years of experience and knowledge on the essentials of pitch preparation," said Seaton CC Groundskeeper, Tristan Wakeley.

The Devon Cricket Foundation would like to thank Paul Mitchell and Abbottskerwell CC for hosting the training session, Phil Jeggo for coming down to Devon to share his expertise, and all the groundskeepers who came along for the evening, in particular the young volunteers attending their first-ever groundskeeping training session.

The next groundskeeper training session will take place in early September, focusing on end-of-season pitch renovation. A date and venue will be confirmed in due course.

SmartWater Business Packs

The Devon Cricket Foundation is in possession of a handful of spare Deter Tech Crime Prevention SmartWater business packs. The property marking packs are designed to deter equipment and machinery theft at sports venues.

Clubs can apply for an 80% discounted pack by getting in touch with our Funding & Facilities Manager, Nick Goodliffe, below. Packs will be given out on a first-come first-serve basis.

"By adopting this crime prevention tool, cricket clubs can give more focus to what matters most: growing the game, developing facilities, and providing a safe and welcoming place for everyone to enjoy cricket."

CONTACT

nick.goodliffe@devoncricket.co.uk
07801 178329