Winner of Rugby League‘Groundsperson of the Year’ named

Keith Porter of Leigh Centurions has been named Groundsperson of the Year for 2009, beating off stiff competition from Ian Forshaw of Wigan Warriors and last year's winner Malcolm Taylor of Hull KR.

Porter has been rewarded for his services to Leigh Sports Village where he has worked tirelessly to manage a surface which accommodates a number
of teams and sports.

With the venue being used for community purposes as well as on a professional basis for Leigh Centurions, Keith has shown his commitment
to Rugby League in making the pitch fit for frequent use.

Dave Saltman, the Managing Director of Pitchcare, said: "The Leigh Sports Village is the new kid on the block in this year's final and I was very impressed with the layout of the venue and the set-up that Keith Porter and his team have.

"There are a number of pitches at the complex and Keith and his small team have a lot of grass to maintain. Keith works tirelessly to ensure that Leigh Easts' teams have a superb surface to play and train on which shows his dedication to community Rugby League."

Now in its sixth successive year, the award will once again be presented in memory of Brian Cartwright, a great servant to the game of Rugby League and honorary groundsman to the RFL for over 20 years.

The award is not intended to reflect the best pitch or most expensive equipment, but to reward the groundsmen whose efforts go above and beyond the call of duty.