WITH the 2019/20 football season coming to an early end owing to the pandemic, Bromsgrove Sporting have taken advantage and made an early start to close-season projects.
Last month contractors installed a state-of-the-art irrigation system which allows considerable improvements to the maintenance of the pitch.
Eight sprinklers have been fitted just under the surface which, when switched on, deliver an even coverage of water across the ground.
In addition, they can be operated remotely from a mobile phone so groundsman Steve Dipple does not have to leave the comfort of his living room – thus saving on somebody having to make frequent visits the ground to move hosepipes and mobile sprinklers.
Water is obtained from a borehole next to the main stand and capturing rainwater from the roof, which is both cheaper and better for the grass than tap water.
Club chairman Mike Burke said: “This system brings the club bang up to date with our maintenance and goes a long way to delivering our plan to have one of the best playing surfaces in non-League football.
“I am very grateful to Steve for managing the installation project and his work in keeping the pitch in fantastic condition – not easy given the variable weather we have had this season.”