ensure the grass plant remains stress free whilst reducing the nematode population. Different areas of the pitch can dry out at different rates and grass growth in shaded areas can often be less vigorous. In the short time Paul has been at Burnley, he and his staff have learned how to manage the pitch to get the best out of it.
The undersoil heating system has, over a number of years, baked the soil profile, causing it to become impermeable. Last year he had to dig out several problem areas within the playing area to improve infiltration and restore the porosity of the pitch.
Also, it was installed quite shallow and this affects the ability to aerate the pitch to any significant depth. The Procore 648 is the only machine that allows for regular aeration to help improve the
surface. Final match day preparations will include double cutting and marking out the day before. However, the Lancashire weather often dictates the workload! All four staff are assigned to matches, usually coming in at 8.00am and remaining until after the game to replace divots. The pitch is marked out using a Vitax transfer wheel line marker and a liquid marker paint, stringing out for every overmark.
As for the future, getting back in to the
Premiership has, for a life-long Burnley fan, been amazing. If they can stay up, there should be plenty of opportunity for Paul to put forward his plans to improve the playing surfaces at both the stadium and training ground. And, the extra income should mean that the £20 million earmarked for the redevelopment of Turf Moor and the surrounding area, to
create a community sports and leisure village, should be available. Regenerating both the football and the
cricket club, plus a leisure and hotel complex, will enable the Community Sports Trust to deliver a sports led approach that will breathe new life into the local community. The Gawthorpe Training Ground will be updated into an academy, allowing Burnley to, once again, encourage young talent.
At the time of writing, Paul had just
purchased two MU27 ‘baby’ lighting rig units from SGL for the goalmouths. Although not the complete answer to his problems, he’s sure they will help him through the winter months. With everything that is going on at Burnley, it will be a hectic time for Paul and his team, but it’s a challenge he is looking forward to.
engineered for perfection
A first class finish …. every time
For more information on our full range of stadia maintenance equipment call 01332 824777
PROUDLY BRITISH
www.dennisuk.com 73
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