Magazine - Doncaster Keepmoat Stadium's new equipment

By Peter Driver in Industry on 8th Mar 2007 14:00

Doncaster's Lakeside Sports Complex invests in new Turf Maintenance Equipment.

Deep aerator will help keep natural sports pitches in first class condition.

Andy Thompson, head groundsman with the Stadium Management Company, a self-funding organisation working in partnership with Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council and responsible for the smooth running of Doncaster's new Lakeside Sports Complex, has invested in a new Wiedenmann deep aerator from his local dealer, Golf & Turf Machinery of Stanley in Derbyshire.

Andy and his team are responsible for the pitch at the Keepmoat Stadium which is home to Doncaster Rovers Football Club, Doncaster Lakers Rugby League Club, Doncaster Belles - the Rovers successful women's team - and the town's American Football team.

"Deep aeration is a vital part of any pitch maintenance regime as it relieves compaction, helps water and air reach the roots of the grass plant and also aids drainage", he said. "We've used the stadium pitch extensively since taking over on 11 December and this new Terra Spike G160 will help keep the soil open and ensure a true playing surface for whatever sport is being played."

Not only are the grounds staff responsible for the three grass pitches; there are another two, one built to the same Desso specification as the stadium pitch and another for community use, but also the artificial surfaces and the facilities of Doncaster Athletics Club.

"We've got a big job and limited staff so that's why we need the very best equipment", he added. "And that's what we've got with this new Terra Spike. It's robust, good value for money and we also have the added value of excellent back up support from Golf & Turf Machinery and Wiedenmann."

Photo (l-r): Glen Sawyer of Golf & Turf Machinery, Paul Green, head groundsman, Andy Thompson and Alan Decent of the Keepmoat grounds staff.

Read more articles in Industry, by Peter Driver or from March 2007.