CHAIRMAN Anthony Hampson has praised the efforts of Worcester City’s groundstaff in producing an ‘exceptional’ pitch at St George’s Lane.

Many hours have been devoted to improving the playing surface since the end of last season following heavy criticism of its condition.

Grass with deeper roots has been used for durability and around £3,000 spent on sprinklers to keep it watered.

The club are keen to avoid repeats of recent years which have seen the pitch deteriorate dramatically throughout the season.

Although it remains a work in progress, Hampson is delighted to see the efforts of groundsmen Paul Humphries and Ernie North, alongside directors Mike Davis and Colin Layland, reaping rewards.

The City chief said: “The work that has been put in by the groundstaff and the two directors responsible for the pitch and the maintenance of it has really paid off.

“The new irrigation system has made the quality of the grass and the playing surface quite exceptional at the moment and I think anyone looking at it would agree.”

City, who acted on advice from the Institute of Groundsmanship, also hope the amount of games on the pitch will reduce this season when Evesham United move into their new home.

The Robins are waiting for road access to be completed at Cheltenham Road and are likely to remain at the Lane until at least the end of September.