On Tuesday 18 March, we held a Grounds Morning workshop at Edgbaston Community Ground, drawing an attendance of over 40 participants.
The morning began with egg and bacon breakfast rolls, setting the stage for a warm introduction from Sam Wyles, the Workforce Development Manager.
It was great to see so many passionate individuals associated with grounds work come together for the morning.
We had the privilege of hearing from Warwickshire’s County Pitch Advisors, Jonathan Blakeman and Ashley Hill, who inspired with their insights on pre-season ground and pitch preparation, focusing on essential topics like seeding and renovation.
Ged McDougall, ECB Regional Facilities Manager, highlighted opportunities available through the Grass Pitch Improvement Fund and the criteria for eligibility.
We also heard from Andy Welsby from the Grounds Management Association and representatives from the Warwickshire Association of Cricket Officials.
The workshop’s second half took us on a facilities tour, where we explored the equipment and pitches, engaging with the knowledgeable ground staff and tapping into their expertise.
We wrapped up the morning with equipment demonstrations from Jason Briggs of Howardson Group/Dennis.
We are committed to supporting our ground staff in Warwickshire and Birmingham. If you have any suggestions or need assistance, please reach out to Richard Evans, Club Development Officer, or Sam Wyles, Workforce Development Manager.
Thank you to everyone who attended; we hope you found the workshop valuable.