Industry and Sporting Headlines
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Somerset FA harnesses IOG expertise for winter pitches maintenance roadshow
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(Published: Tue 9 Feb, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Recognising the importance of the role of groundsmanship in maintaining quality playing surfaces, the Somerset Football Association has teamed up with the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) to stage a series of free workshops covering winter pitch maintenance, equipment and machinery demands and training opportunities.
Targeted at chairmen, treasurers and groundscare personnel at clubs, schools and local authorities, the Turf Clinic & Facility Roadshow series will focus on:
[] Performance quality standards and methods that can be used in testing the performance of a football pitch
[] Maintenance routines/calendar of operations, and
[] Practical demonstrations.
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Dennis Mowers Bowls Seminars to feature speakers from STRI and IOG
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(Published: Mon 8 Feb, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The bowling green seminars will take place during the spring across Scotland and Yorkshire.
Speakers from Dennis include Alan Ronaldson (Scottish venues) and Toby Clarke (Yorkshire). They will offer an insight into the companies range of specialist machinery for bowling green maintenance with "on green" demonstrations.
Speakers from the Sports Turf Research Institute will cover modern bowling green maintenance techniques and green performance measurement, and British Seed Houses’ Richard Brown will discuss the latest varieties for bowls while addressing plant nutrition issues.
IoG Scotland’s Roy Daniels, Golf Finance’s Ian Henderson and First Independent Finance’s Adrian Chouner will also give presentations.
And Metropolitan Police head groundsman and bowling green expert Dave Bracey will give a talk offering advice and tips.
The events will take place on:
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Twickenham groundsman Keith Kent helps Lantra in campaign for new recruits ahead of Six Nations
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(Published: Wed 3 Feb, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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With all eyes on Twickenham for Saturday's Six Nations opener between England and Wales, industry stalwart and head groundsman Keith Kent has lent his weight to Lantra's campaign to attract new recruits to the industry.
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IOG SALTEX visitors in billion pound spending spree
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(Published: Tue 26 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Groundscare and open space professionals throughout the country who visited last years IOG SALTEX exhibition could spend over a billion pounds in the coming year.
Independent research carried out at the three-day show the UKs leading open space exhibition - revealed that visitors could invest up to 1.6 billion on groundscare and open space products and services. The research also revealed that
[] Over 1,000 visitors were from organisations that spend over £1 million each year on open space management products and services
[] More than 600 were from organisations that spend over £500,000
[] Over 1,000 visitors spend up to £500,000 each year
[] More than 1,200 spend up to £150,000, and
[] Over 4,500 spend up to £50,000.
In each case these figures were higher than comparative figures taken at IOG SALTEX 2008.
The spending power of IOG SALTEX visitors is reinforced by the fact that:
[] 70 per cent of visitors to the show had buying power
[] 80 per cent of these said IOG SALTEX influenced their purchasing decisions, and
[] 45 per cent of visitors involved in purchasing DO NOT usually see any non-supplier sales representatives.
Also:
[] 80 per cent of visitors went to the show to look for new ideas or products (and 86 per cent said it was important to see equipment working in an outdoor environment)
[] 50 per cent visited to learn about what’s new in the market
[] 60 per cent of visitors do not plan to visit any other UK exhibition, and
[] 29 per cent were looking for new or alternative suppliers.
The research also reveals that 26 per cent of the audience were new visitors to the show, 57 per cent had not visited in 2008 and 31 per cent had visited in previous years but not in 2008. This means exhibitors which do not attend every year are potentially missing hundreds of key buyers.
Commenting, IOG SALTEX Sales Director Clare Johnson says: “The figures certainly reinforce that IOG SALTEX is year-on-year the most important show for the whole of the open space industry – and they clearly explain why this year’s event is nearly 90 per cent sold out.
“Visitor feedback gives us every confidence that despite the credit crunch the spending trend will continue at this year’s show.â€
IOG SALTEX 2010 will be held on September 7-9 at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.
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Heyhoe Where are all the young groundsmen?
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(Published: Mon 25 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Award-winning Rodney Heyhoe has appealed to young groundsmen in West Yorkshire to join his organisation.
The Lightcliffe Cricket Club supremo, who is secretary of the West Yorkshire and Leeds branch of the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG), said at their annual meeting: Where are all the young ones to help and take over when we are too old to cope?
Of course, we would like more members, particularly the younger end, and friends to come along and enjoy the fare on offer.
The branch’s annual merit award went to Kirkstall Educational Cricket Club’s groundsman David Hodgson for his work in developing and presenting “Understanding of Groundsmanship” courses to Yorkshire’s cricket development groups, while also raising the profile of groundsmanship in the region.
Hodgson was also a winner of a Yorkshire Cricket Board OSCA (Outstanding Service to Cricket Award) in 2009.
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Land-based employers to influence the Labour Partys industrial strategy
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(Published: Mon 25 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Lantra gained the opportunity for land-based employers and farmers to share their ideas on skills and funding with John Park MSP. This will feed into the Labour Partys industrial strategy that John is developing for Labours work in the Scottish Parliament. The strategy can help to shape policy, either in government, or influencing as a member of a minority government, to help kick-start the economy.
Lantra, Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries along with employers, trade associations, and training providers keen to influence policies met with John Park recently. A wide range of land-based industries were represented including farming, aquaculture, horticulture, landscaping, land-based engineering, game and wildlife, and equine.
John Park, Shadow Cabinet Secretary Without Portfolio, Elections and Campaigns explained:
“I was delighted to meet with employers and key stakeholders at Lantra’s Perth office as their input is key to drawing together a coherent and consistent set of policies designed to improve the performance of the economy and unlock competitive potential that cannot be achieved by the market alone.
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IOG In Action - Sunderland AFC - Book Today
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(Published: Tue 2 Feb, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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IOG in Action Sunderland AFC Wednesday 24th February 2010
The Institute of Groundsmanship are delighted to present a host of educational seminars on Trends and Issues in Grounds Maintenance. The IOG in Actions are popular educational events for all grounds staff. The programme offers up to the minute education and advice on a range of grounds maintenance issues, with light refreshments being supplied.
The agenda for the day is as follows:
09:00-09:30 Registration & Coffee
09:30-10:00 Chairman Welcome – Kevin Duffill
Regional Update – Regional Advisor
10:00-10:30 Renovation and Beyond, Tim Colclough, Turftrax
What are the major issues and the techniques required to rectify them.
10.30-11:00 Current Developments in Turf Nutrition, Presenter TBC
What are the benefits of turf nutrition programmes and how are they developing?
11:00-11:30 Coffee Break and time to spend with the sponsors
11:30-12:00 The use of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR’s), Dr Simon Watson, Syngenta
12:00-12:30 What are the risks in the workplace? HSE Presenter
An Overview of current issues and how to address them /
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-14:30 Live Workshop Demonstrations
14:30-15:30 Stadium Tour – Meet the Head Groundsman
15:30 Close
Price:
IOG Members
£20.00
IOG Non-Members
£40.00
Places for this event are limited and are being allocated on a first come, first served basis. To reserve your place(s) please download the booking form and return the enclosed response form at your earliest convenience, fax back to 01908 311140 or email events@iog.org.
Sunderland AFC booking form
I do hope you and your colleagues will be able to join us for what I am sure will be an informative day.
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The prospects look good for IOG Members at spectators sports facilities
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(Published: Thu 21 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an exciting new relationship with trade union Prospect. Members of the IOG who work at spectator sports facilities can now join Prospect at exclusively reduced rates and enjoy the benefits, advice and support of the fastest growing trade union in the UK.
With more than 122,000 members across a wide range of industries, Prospect specialises in advising, defending and supporting members if they encounter problems at work, in addition to:
[] Negotiating pay and conditions
[] Campaigning for jobs and standards
[] Influencing employers and Government, and
[] Offering valuable benefits and services.
It has offices in seven regional locations and more than 40 full-time professional negotiators in place. Prospect negotiates with employers not just on pay and conditions but also on a range of issues such as career development, contracts of employment, hours, leave, maternity and pensions.
In addition, the trade union has specialist departments for research, pensions, legal, education, communication and organisational issues, as well as a network of 2,700 safety and workplace representatives.
Commenting on the agreement, IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb, says: “The synergy between Prospect and the IOG is clear – there is much common ground in terms of both organisations wanting to raise standards, salaries and recognition for their members.
“In addition, sports grounds professionals now have the opportunity to have the support of professional heavyweight union ‘clout’ that could make all the difference at the negotiating table,” he continues. “That was made abundantly clear when Prospect became involved in a high-profile issue last year and, based on the results of that case, the IOG would encourage every member to take up this exclusive offer.”
Alan Leighton, Prospect’s National Secretary, reaffirms: “Prospect is an independent, thriving and forward-looking trade union with a reputation for supporting specialist members and with a growing number of members in sport. As well as negotiating with more than 300 employers, we are also an experienced campaigning body – and this, too, dovetails with the IOG’s long-term aims for membership recognition.”
Leighton adds that should the initiative in the spectator sports area be successful, further joint initiatives with the IOG could be considered.
Initially, IOG members who work in spectator sports facilities will benefit from three months free membership if they sign up before the end of March 2010. Under the innovative agreement, these IOG members will also be able to join Prospect at preferential rates.
Contact Alan Leighton at Prospect on 020 7902 6649 or visit www.iog.org for full details.
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nicenstripy cultivates growth of business network
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(Published: Fri 8 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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nicenstripy the leading lawn and garden maintenance company which boasts a network of 16 offices, will be hosting its second annual conference this month, following the success of the inaugural event last year.
The conference will be attended by nicenstripy company owners and in addition to the obvious networking opportunities, is designed to provide access to valuable information to enhance overall business performance.
Business development workshops which are included on the conference agenda include “A professional approach to the preparation and maintenance of lawns” by the Institute of Groundsmanship; “Public Procurement and Tendering”; “How Business Link can help your business” and “PR Packs a Punch in the Credit Crunch”.
The conference takes place Saturday 30th January at Whyboston Lakes Hotel and Conference Centre, Bedford.
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Groundsmen praised as snow wreaks havoc
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(Published: Thu 7 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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As the UK endures the coldest weather front experienced for nearly 30 years, during which the New Year snow storms travelled north to south creating chaos and the cancellation of numerous events, groundsmen throughout the country have received much acclaim for their ability to maintain fixtures.
While crowd safety (at the ground and travelling to/fro) is always paramount – aka the Arsenal FC website announcement of the postponement of the game with Bolton at the Emirates on Wednesday January 6 – football club chairman and players, for example, have all been quick to praise the skill of their groundsmen during these testing times, at venues country-wide.
Indeed, the efforts of Stoke City head groundsman, Andy Jackson and his team, were highlighted on Sky TV at the Stoke-Fulham game after days of freezing temperatures culminated in the arrival of snow a few hours before kick-off at the Britannia Stadium.
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Tranmeres groundstaff were thanked after their hard work enabled Rovers FA Cup tie to go ahead
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(Published: Wed 6 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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THE Prenton Park groundstaff earned a double salute this week for their efforts in making sure Tranmeres FA Cup encounter with Wolves beat the freeze and went online.
Wolves skipper Karl Henry and Rovers chairman Peter Johnson paid tribute to the work of groundsman Andy Quayle and his assistants in keeping the pitch protected from the sharps frosts of recent nights with special covers.
Not only did the best crowd of the season at Prenton Park - 7476 - see Wolves edge through the third round tie by a single goal from Matt Jarvis, the game was also watched live by a worldwide Internet audience via the FAs official web site.
The internet streaming of the game earned Rovers around 75,000 - better than the prize-money Wolves collected for securing a fourth round date with Crystal Palace
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Weather to be the only winner
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(Published: Wed 6 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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As SportTimes pictures reveal today, the playing surface at Cappielow is frozen solid and already Ton chiefs are resigning themselves to the 11,000 sell-out clash against Tony Mowbrays side being postponed.
The SFA are set to schedule pitch inspections as early as Thursday to give fans plenty of notice on whether or not their clubs matches will go ahead.
But there is little hope of more than half a dozen of the scheduled 16 cup ties taking place, and that is likely to have a knock-on affect on rescheduled SPL games, including Celtics trip to Kilmarnock on January 20 which may now be required for the cup match in Greenock. Morton groundsman Mark Farrell said today: It looks as though there is going to be one winner this weekend – and thats the weather. The pitch is frozen solid.
And co-boss James Grady said: “We are doing everything we can, but it’s not looking good. The weather has been poor again overnight and that hasn’t helped.”
It is likely to be the third week in a row that Scottish football has been almost wiped out by the wintry weather.
Officials at Albion Rovers, Forfar Athletic and Ayr United are already all but resigned to their games being postponed. Despite some pitches being playable, other cup ties may get called off because of police concerns about public safety.
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British Sugar Topsoil Visit - Book Now
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(Published: Tue 5 Jan, 2010)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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British Sugar are kindly hosting for IOG members a site visit and tour of British Sugar.
The day will commence at 12pm with a buffet lunch, followed by a presentation on the British Sugars sustainability policy and conclude with members viewing the sugar and range of Co-Products being made. Including TOPSOIL, Stones, LimeX and Animal Feed. Full Safety PPE will be supplied upon arrival. Please also note all members are to bring a warm waterproof coat strong boots, ideally safety boots. Office shoes and training shoes are not acceptable. The day will finish at 3pm.
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IOG promotes 2 per cent salary increase in 2010 for Grounds Professionals
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(Published: Mon 21 Dec, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is recommending a 2 per cent increase in grounds staffs national minimum salary bands for 2010, following annual industry-wide research carried out independently by PBi Consulting. This is in a year when public sector pay is likely to be 1.5 per cent or less and when inflation is expected to rise to 2.5 - 3 per cent.
Commenting on the findings – which reveal that senior grounds management roles are continuing last year’s trend of being competitively rewarded in line with respective market rates – IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb says
Progress is still needed, however, in boosting the average remuneration of entry- and mid-level jobs – we must continue to improve employers understanding of these roles and the levels at which they are rewarded.
He continues: As confirmed by the second phase of IOG research, the IOG must continue to be proactive in not only promoting uniformity of pay, but also in generating increased awareness of the importance and inherent expertise of grounds care professionals.
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Merchant named Groundsman of Year
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(Published: Wed 9 Dec, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Matt Merchant from Old Trafford has been named the 2009 Groundsman of the Year by the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Merchant's efforts for Lancashire enabled him to fend off his rivals in the four-day category, with Mick Hunt of Lord's picking up the runner-up prize. A commendation went to Andy Peirson (Canterbury) in the same category.
"The work of all head groundsmen is highly valued and we are delighted to make these annual awards which recognise the head groundsmen who have prepared the best pitches this season," Alan Fordham, head of operations for the ECB (First Class Cricket), said.
It is a notable achievement for Merchant, given it is his first season in charge at the club after spending 19 years on the staff under the stewardship of the former head groundsman Peter Marron, who retired last year.
"I'm obviously thrilled to have received this award in my first year in the position and it's recognition for the hard work and long hours the entire groundstaff team put in over the winter months and during a very wet and trying summer," Merchant said.
"Old Trafford has an excellent reputation for delivering first-class wickets that provide something for both batsmen and bowlers. A good wicket is what you always set out to achieve and I believe the competitiveness of the wicket at Old Trafford is one of the main reasons why cricketers want to play at this famous ground."
Lancashire chief executive Jim Cumbes said: "We are all delighted for Matt and it is fantastic reward in his first season as head groundsman, succeeding Peter Marron who of course was one of the most respected in the business."
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Cricket clubs score at IOG awards
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(Published: Tue 1 Dec, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Lisvane CC and Bletchley CC were winners at the first Institute of Groundsmanship Awards ceremony.
The event took place at Arsenals Emirates Stadium, where grounds professionals from throughout the UK were in attendance to hear the results judged by the independent panel.
There were over 300 attendees at the prestigious event recognising the work of Groundsmen across all sports from grass roots to professional sport. The criteria for success included the effective use of resource, presentation and housekeeping standards, budgetary control and environmental considerations. The Institute of Groundsmanship Awards nominated cricket in three different categories.
The first award of the evening was picked up by Lisvane Cricket Club, Cardiff who was crowned Volunteer Sports Grounds Management Team of the Year - supported by Barclays Spaces for Sport Programme.
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Fifa lay down law on grass
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(Published: Tue 1 Dec, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Looking at greenery reduces stress, according to psychologists. But there are exceptions. Derek Blanckensee looks at more greenery than Tarzan these days, but hes not relaxed - and with good reason.
GREEN FINGERS: Pitch man Obie Oberholzer, with the new Rand Stadium grass
RAYMOND PRESTON
As the 2010 LOC's chief competitions officer, he is effectively the World Cup's supreme groundsman.
Ensuring that all the 2010 pitches are world class is just one of Blanckensee's many portfolios, but it's the most nerve-wracking.
The world's greatest football artists can only express themselves freely on perfect canvases.
But there's also symbolic terrain at stake: images of terrible pitches have become a stock visual shorthand for the woes of African football.
It's time to give the world a verdant new image.
But at the Confederations Cup, the pitches weren't flawless. Ellis Park, Loftus Versfeld and Free State Stadium all bore the scars of lumbering rugby boots, while the Spanish team were upset about the slowness and dryness of the Free State pitch, which inhibited their zippy passing game.
"A dry pitch is an easy one to solve," says Blanckensee, a respected football administrator with a long track record at Bidvest Wits. "We're not used to watering pitches before a game here, but it's standard practice in Europe. For night matches it's not really an issue, because of the dew, but at the World Cup we will water before the day games.
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Bright future for apprentices
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(Published: Mon 30 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Young men and women seen sowing flower seeds at Hull's parks and gardens have begun to see their own careers blossom.
Four city teenagers are embarking on apprenticeships with Hull City Council.
The four, who are based at East Park, are employed in a variety of roles including customer service, green keeping and horticulture.
The council employs 200 apprentices in a variety of trades including engineering, building maintenance and catering.
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Institute of Groundsmanship launches award schemes in honour of late Chairman Alex R Millar
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(Published: Mon 30 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has announced two Award schemes in honour of its late chairman, Alex Millar: the Alex R Millar Award for Pitch of the Year; and the 2012 Funds Alex R Millar Bursary Fund. Both schemes reflect aspects of the industry that Alex was deeply passionate about.
Alex was IOG National Chairman from 2002 up to his death earlier this year. He also held the post from 1991-1993 and was the IOG representative on football’s Playing Surfaces Committee, helping to establish the Football Groundsman of the Year awards. Alex also served as IOG Board member as well as being a former Treasurer of the IOG.
IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb said the Alex R Millar Award for Pitch of the Year would be an annual award open to all professional football clubs throughout Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland. “The difference with this award will be that it will be groundsmen themselves that will vote, in much the same way that the Professional Footballers’ Association votes for its player of the year. This is something that many professional groundsmen have asked for.â€
He also announced that the bursary aspect of the IOG’s 2012 Fund will now be renamed. Alex was a fervent supporter of the bursaries, which offer financial help towards students’ costs of tuition, fees and materials incurred as part of turf science and groundscare management studies.
A revered groundscare professional, Alex’s industry-wide reputation began at Love Street, Paisley, before moving south to Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire. He then joined Glasgow City Council before moving back to Milton Keynes in 1989 to join Milton Keynes Council as Client Officer in the Parks and Open Spaces Department.
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Training Excellence Award for John OConner Grounds Maintenance Ltd
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(Published: Mon 30 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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John O’Conner (Grounds Maintenance) Limited, one of the UKs largest privately owned landscape maintenance service providers, has won a prestigious award at the Hertfordshire Business Awards Ceremony. The awards recognise individuals and companies who have made a significant impact on business in the past 12 months.
The award ceremony took place at Knebworth Barns in the grounds of Knebworth House, where the company was presented with a special accolade for Training and Development. The award recognises and celebrates training excellence in the areas of individual and team development and the resulting positive impact on staff and customers.
The judging panel commented that John OConners training systems clearly demonstrated commitment, right across their business, to their staff and, most importantly, their customers. The awards were presented by BBC television news presenter Bill Turnbull.
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Get your fingers green with a career in London
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(Published: Wed 25 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Londoners can now find out how to get their fingers green as a new website, developed to promote the number of career opportunities available in London, is launched today 25 November at the Green Skills Seminar, Horticultural Halls, London.
Growing Awareness, developed by Lantra Sector Skills Council with support from the London Development Agency LDA, aims to raise the profile of careers in the environmental and land-based industries, provide information on the types of jobs available and direct people towards training and volunteering opportunities.
Lantra’s Partnership Manager for London, Jonathan Pettit, said: “We’re pleased to be working with the LDA to showcase the wide range of career opportunities available in London especially as we are preparing to host the London 2012 Games, which will bring a whole host of opportunities, particularly with the development and legacy of the Olympic Park.”
Careers in environmental and land-based industries are often not seen as high level but according to recent Lantra research, the London region has a greater concentration of skilled trades (e.g. horticulturalist, floral designer, tree surgeon, groundsman, greenskeeper), technical occupations (e.g. fencing contracts manager, woodland officer, parks development officer, green space officer) and elementary roles (e.g. general labourer), than any other region in England.
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Manchester City FC spends big on groundscare programme
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(Published: Wed 25 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Manchester City Football Club has spent 2.5m on a development programme for the main stadium and the Carrington and Platt Lane training grounds.
The programme incorporates an upgrade to the clubs fleet of machinery and the club has bought three new pieces of Toro turf maintenance machinery.
The clubs City of Manchester Stadium has a new Toro ProCore 648 aerator and electric Workman utility vehicle.
Please click here to read the article in full
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IOG Scotsturf Highlights view some of the best bits
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(Published: Fri 20 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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11th and 12th November 2009 was a roaring success for IOG Scotsturf.
Over 2,000 open space professionals streamed through the doors at Edinburghs Royal Highland Hall where, in addition to 100 plus exhibitors displaying the gamut of groundscare products - including dozens of new items on show in Scotland for the first time the series of complementary education presentations offered visitors exclusive insights into a range of not-to-be-missed topics.
Please view some of the best bits of the two day exhibition,
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IOG Scotsturf News Turf kit makers predict stable sales in 2010
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(Published: Fri 20 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Turf care machinery makers are confident that they can maintain sales in 2010 despite gloomy predictions of a slow recovery and government cutbacks.
Politicians from all major parties have acknowledged that massive public debt means there will have to be cuts to Government spending in the near future.
With the majority promising to protect core services such as the NHS, cuts to parks and open space budgets seem inevitable.
Some local authorities have already warned staff that cutbacks will be unavoidable. Perth & Kinross grounds maintenance liaison officer Paul Summers explained: "The bosses have said that if anybody leaves now we are not allowed to replace them. And we are not going to be able to do much machinery-wise next year. There is an expectation that all machines will have to be made to last longer."
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Prestigious award for Aston Villa groundsman Jonathan Calderwood
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(Published: Fri 20 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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JONATHAN Calderwood, the man responsible for Villa Parks field of dreams, has grounds for celebration after winning a prestigious honour.
Villas head groundsman has scooped an Institute of Groundsmanship accolade, which is the industrys equivalent of a players player award.
Calderwood has been at Villa since 2002 after previously tending the pitches at the old Wembley stadium and Wolves Molineux ground.
There are two awards, said the 31-year-old Irishman.
Theres a Premier League award. I came runner-up in that in the summer. Arsenal won it.
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Do you want to steer the future direction of the IOG
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(Published: Wed 18 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Now is your chance to make a difference.
Nominations are now being sought for Regional Directors and National Chairman, in line with the new structure agreed at the 2009 AGM. We are looking for individuals who have a genuine interest in playing an active role in the future development of the IOG.
There are seven Member Director positions available to cover Wales, Scotland, Ireland and four from England. The four positions from England can be elected from any region in England whereas the Wales, Scotland and Ireland regional directors must be nominated from the region they will represent.
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Sports Facility Construction Exhibition and Seminars Register Now
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(Published: Tue 17 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Sports Surfaces, Creative Design, Project Funding and Management, Indoor Facilities, Standards and Specifications, Surface Maintenance ..... Do You Need to Know More?
The Sports and Play Construction Association and Sport England invite you to attend the
SPORTS FACILITY CONSTRUCTION
Exhibition and Seminars
Tuesday 24 November 2009 Twickenham Stadium, London
Sports Facility Construction is a FREE-TO-ATTEND, one-day event that provides informative and educational seminars together with an exhibition by the leading constructors of sports facilities, suppliers of related products and services, as well as professional consultants offering expert advice on sports facility projects.
The event includes a special focus on the provision of spaces for PE and sport within the educational sector, in particular the Building Schools for the Future programme.
Participating organisations include Sport England, Partnerships for Schools, Association for Physical Education, The Football Association, The Institute of Groundsmanship, and more.
Seminar Programme
Seminar sessions start at 9.45am and finish at 4.30pm.
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Celtic FCs John Hayes is the Scottish Groundsman of the Year
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(Published: Mon 16 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Celtic Football Clubs head groundsman John Hayes is the 2009 IOG Scottish Football Groundsman of the Year. He collected the accolade this month from IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb and David Carson of award sponsor Rigby Taylor, in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the IOG Scotsturf exhibition in Edinburgh.
It is the second time in the past four years that John has won the coveted award, previously collecting the trophy in 2006 and 2005. In 2006 he also won the IOGs Professional Football Groundsman of the Year award.
The award is judged on criteria that includes available resources, scope of operations, presentation and housekeeping standards as well as technical knowledge – based on a shortlist drawn up by the IOG Scotland Region from a league table of pitches formulated using weekly reports from referees.
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IOG Scotsturf A success from start to finish
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(Published: Mon 16 Nov, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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With New Holland going into a brilliant IOG Scotsturf on the back of a deal that meant that one of its machines (a model T4050 tractor) would have to be delivered to its customer straight from the show and Dennis finishing an excellent show, one of the best ever with an order from the Scottish Rugby Union at Murrayfield for two G860 mowers this years IOG Scotsturf was a success from start to finish.
Over 2,000 open space professionals streamed through the doors at Edinburghs Royal Highland Hall where, in addition to 100 plus exhibitors displaying the gamut of groundscare products - including dozens of new items on show in Scotland for the first time the series of complementary education presentations offered visitors exclusive insights into a range of not-to-be-missed topics.
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Honour for groundsman
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(Published: Fri 30 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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A MUSSELBURGH groundsman has been recognised by a local football team for his dedication and hard work achieved during his 27 years in the job.
John Buckley was presented with the John Murray Shield by Musselburgh Windsor Football Club - an annual award considered the highest honour from the organisation.
Musselburgh Windsor aim to recognise hard work, dedication, good service or a special achievement by an individual.
Mr Buckley, who lives on Pinkie Road, has been the groundsman at Pinkie Primary School for nearly 30 years and is solely responsible for the preparation and care of both the school and the numerous grass sports pitches in the scenic grounds surrounding it.
"I couldn't believe it when they (Musselburgh Windsor) said I had won the award and it is a great honour to have this presented to me," the 53-year-old said.
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TalkSPORT presenter highlights Groundsmanship - listen now
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(Published: Fri 30 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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TalkSPORT presenter Mark Saggers highlighted the current issues facing groundsmen on his radio programme last night 29th October 2009 including the achievements of those recognised at the IOG Industry Awards ceremony held earlier in the month at the Emirates Stadium. Talking to Darren Gough, Saggers recalls a chance conversation he had on the night with accomplished Headingley Carnegie groundsman Jason Booth. Listen to the interview in full
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Minister for sport Gerry Sutcliffe MP speaks at IOG Conference
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(Published: Mon 26 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Minister for sport Gerry Sutcliffe MP has pledged to address the issue of maintenance budgets for high profile sports facilities.
He was speaking at the Institute of Groundsmanship's (IOG's) conference and inaugural awards last week, held at Arsenal FC's Emirates Stadium.
He told delegates that maintenance budgets was the big message from the day. "It's vital to provide in-built, sustainable maintenance funds in new projects. I'm going to take away the sustainability of maintenance budgets as an issue for the Government," he said.
The topic was raised during a panel debate in which delegates, including Local Government Association vice-chairman Ian Mearns, said that too often there was funding for new facilities but no budget for maintenance of existing ones.
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IOG Awards evening view the highlights of the evening
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(Published: Wed 21 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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15th October 2009 was a memorable occasion for the IOG. The IOG has now set a standard by being the first to introduce an exceptional awards evening recognising the very best in our industry. Please view some of the best bits of the evening.
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IOG Industry Awards honour UK Grounds Professionals
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(Published: Mon 19 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Grounds professionals from throughout the UK from grass roots through to professional stadia were honoured at last nights Oscar-style IOG Industry Awards ceremony held at the Emirates Stadium, London.
The Awards were judged by an independent panel on criteria that includes effective use of resources, budgetary control, presentation and housekeeping standards, as well as environmental considerations, and the winners were:
The Groundsman’s Groundsman of the Year – supported by DLF Trifolium/Johnsons
Jonathan Calderwood, Aston Villa FC – nominated by, and voted on, by his industry peers.
Finalists: Jason Booth, Headingley Carnegie Stadium; John Dodwell, Caterham School; Graham Osbourne, Shay Stadium.
Spectator Sports Ground of the Year – supported by the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board), The Football Association, the Lawn Tennis Association, The Premier League, the Professional Footballers’ Association, the Rugby Football League and Sport England
Headingley Carnegie Stadium, Leeds – the 20,500 capacity stadium hosts up to 80 games a year.
Finalists: Craven Park Stadium, Hull; Emirates Stadium, London.
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Scotts and Syngenta to sponsor Amenity Forum Conference on 4th November 2009
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(Published: Mon 19 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Scotts and Syngenta are proud to be sponsors of the 2009 Amenity Forum Conference which will be held at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on 4th November 2009.
Changing pesticide legislation is already having a significant effect on the amenity sector. The conference is the industry’s opportunity to find out more about the current and potential situations and to have your say.
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Applications open for CABE Space design skills scholarships
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(Published: Thu 1 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Applications are now open for CABE Spaces annual design skills scholarship programme. CABE Space is offering up to six people the opportunity to travel abroad and around the UK to learn how well-designed spaces can benefit the communities they serve.
The scholarships are designed to inject design awareness into the professions that create and manage urban public space. The grants are available for people without design training who want to learn more about the effect good design can have on our streets and highways, parks and green spaces and public squares and neighbourhoods.
Successful scholars will visit examples of well-designed public spaces, gain an understanding of their delivery and management, and learn how similar ideas can be developed through their work.
Applications for the 2010 scholarships are opening just as this years scholars return from their visits to Europe, the USA, Canada and around the UK. Their studies included an exploration of community gardens, how better designed public spaces can help deliver cultural and creative learning for children and the impact well-designed green space can have on social housing schemes.
Noel Murphy, a Landscape Manager from the North West visited best practice social housing schemes in Holland, Sweden, and Denmark. He explored how the design and use of green places contributes to a better sense of place and cohesion. He said:
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East Midlands Branch Bowling Green Information Day
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(Published: Thu 1 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Come along and enjoy a day of information on Bowling Green Maintenance at Chesterfield M W Bowls Club, Chester Street, Chesterfield S40 1DL on Wednesday 21st October 2009.
The day will start at 10.00am and finish at 3.30pm.
The cost will be 9.00 per person to include morning tea/coffee and biscuits, together with lunch and afternoon tea/coffee.
Applications must be returned by Friday 25th September to:
Trevor Wyke
Poplars
10 Marston Road
Nottingham
NG3 7AN
Telephone 0115 912 0351
Cheques should be made payable to:
The Institute of Groundsmanship
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IOG In Action Charterhouse School Book Now
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(Published: Thu 1 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The Institute of Groundsmanship are delighted to present a host of educational seminars on Autumn and Winter Maintenance. The IOG in Actions are popular educational events for all grounds staff. The programme offers up to the minute education and advice on a range of grounds maintenance issues, with light refreshments being supplied.
The agenda for the event is as follows:
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RFL announces shortlist for Groundsperson of the Year Award
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(Published: Thu 1 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The RFL has announced the nominees for the annual Groundsperson of the Year Award which aims to recognise the hard work and dedication of the men and women who work with Rugby Leagues grass roots literally
The search has been narrowed down to a shortlist of three: Ian Forshaw (Wigan Warriors), Keith Porter (Leigh Centurions) and Malcolm Taylor (Hull Kingston Rovers).
Keith Kent, the Head Groundsman of Twickenham Stadium who has helped draw up the shortlist, said: “It is important to acknowledge the efforts of groundstaff in providing a professional and smooth running playing surface capable to meet the demands of Rugby League.
“The three nominees have shown versatility throughout the season, keeping the pitch in tip-top condition despite the cross-over of the football season and intense training schedules.â€
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American lessons in image enhancement at IOG National Sports Turf Conference
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(Published: Tue 29 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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It has just been announced that Kim Heck, Chief Executive Officer of the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) in America, will be joining the impressive list of presenters at this years IOG National Sports Turf Conference on October 15 at the Emirates Stadium, London, to discuss how image enhancement programmes can help turf professionals gain wider recognition.
Kim is currently spearheading such a campaign for sports turf managers in the USA, following a successful similar exercise for The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America during her 10-year tenure at GCSAA.
Her exclusive insights into the benefits of profile building – which align with the IOGs Challenging Perceptions strategy – complement a comprehensive Conference programme that will arm grounds professionals with all the weaponry needed to keep abreast of developments in, for example, football turf, grass roots sports partnerships, sustainable environmental policies, lighting rigs and turf grass stress research.
Addressing all the key issues being faced by the sports turf sector with presentations being made by some of the industry’s leading names, the IOG National Sports Conference is sponsored by Boughton Loams, British Sugar, Harrod UK, Rigby Taylor and Syngenta. It also features special guests Gerry Sutcliffe MP, Minister for Sport, and Mike Gatting, ECB Managing Director of Cricket Partnerships and former England cricket captain. It will be hosted by leading TV and radio sports presenter Mark Saggers.
In addition to a keynote address by the Minister for Sport, there will be an exclusive ‘this is our industry’ facts and figures insight into the UK groundscare sector, as well as a not-to-be-missed ‘open discussion’ debate featuring a panel of experts from across all industry sectors. The programme also includes:
[] Industry update
Sheffield Hallam University and the IOG will unveil the facts and figures from the most comprehensive industry research to date. Presented by IOG Chief Executive, Geoff Webb, and Richard Moore of Sheffield Hallam University.
[] Football turf – a global view
Developments at community, club and international level including best practice case studies and the challenges ahead. Presented by Nigel Fletcher, FIFA.
[] Regenerating grass roots sport through partnerships
A look at how the ECB encourages partnerships with volunteer and professional support staff, including umpires, scorers and groundsmen. Presented by Mike Gatting, ECB.
[] What’s the cost of going green – can you afford not to?
Will sports, leisure and grounds care industries follow the many other industries whose environmental policies are at the top of their agendas? Presented by Lee Penrose, STRI.
[] The future of lighting rigs
The benefits of using lighting rigs in football stadia is well recognised, but what opportunities do they offer other sports? Presented by Chris Woods, ECB.
[] Managing stress in turf grass
While anecdotal evidence has demonstrated the value of biostimulants in reducing stress and alleviating damage symptoms in turf grass, current research is identifying the mechanisms which may be involved in stress reduction. Presented by Dr Colin Flemming and Dr Kate Entwistle.
[] Overcoming the skills gap
The introduction of the Apprenticeship, Learning and Schools Bill means an apprenticeship will be guaranteed for anyone who is qualified. How will the industry manage this and optimise the opportunity? Presented by David Winn, Lantra.
Also, there will be a number of ‘break-out’ sessions focusing on, for example, training and education, pesticides, the volunteer sector and preparing for retirement, and a business advisory clinic will be available.
Visit www.iog.org NOW for full programme and to book your place.
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IOG Industry Awards The scene is set to spotlight UK groundscare expertise
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(Published: Tue 29 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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The nominations have been made and the votes cast all that remains now is for the successful winners of the IOG Industry Awards to be announced, Oscar-style, at the Emirates Stadium, London on October 15. The finalists are:
Sport
[] The Groundsmans Groundsman of the Year
Jason Booth, Leeds Rhinos
John Calderwood, Aston Villa FC
John Dodwell, Caterham School
Graham Osborne, Halifax Town
[] Spectator Sports Ground of the Year
Craven Park Stadium, Hull
Emirates Stadium, London
Headingley Carnegie Stadium, Leeds
[] Independent School Sports Ground of the Year
Hampton School, Middlesex
Shiplake College, Henley-on-Thames
St Albans School, Hertfordshire
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Vote now for your IOG Groundsman’s Groundsman of the Year
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(Published: Wed 23 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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We received a huge response to our request for your nominations for who you think should be crowned the IOGs Groundsmans Groundsman of the Year 2009.
Congratulations to finalists John Dodwell (Caterham School), Jason Booth (Headingley Carnegie Stadium), Jonathan Calderwood (Aston Villa) and Graham Osbourne (Shay Stadium). Below are short overviews of who theys are and what they do. All are worthy winners but only one can win the title, so get voting now!
Not registered for the Conference or Awards yet? Book online (select from menu on homepage) or contact Head Office on 01908 312511.
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IOG Sports Turf Conference and workshops view the programme in full
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(Published: Fri 2 Oct, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Have you booked your place for the educational event of the year If not simply click here to book online.
IOG Industry Sports Turf Conference
15th October 2009, Emirates Stadium, London
9.00 9.30 Registration and coffee
9.30 10.00 Welcome and industry update
An update on progress and events over the last 12 months as well as a look at plans for the future. In conjunction with research partners Sheffield Hallam University, we unveil the facts and figures from the most comprehensive industry research to date to establish just what our industry is today.
Geoff Webb, CEO and Richard Moore, Sheffield Hallam University
10.00 – 10.30 Panel debate with audience Q&A’s
Your opportunity to ask your questions to representatives and experts from across all sectors of the industry
Facilitated by Mark Saggers, leading TV and radio sports presenter
10.30 – 11.00 Keynote speech
Gerry Sutcliffe MP, Minister for Sport
11.00 – 11.20 Coffee break
11.20 – 11.50 Football turf – a global view
Developments at community, club and international level including best practice case studies and the challenges ahead.
Nigel Fletcher, FIFA
11.50 – 12.20 Keynote speech: Regenerating grass roots sport through partnerships
A look at how the ECB are encouraging partnerships with volunteer and professional support staff, including umpires, scorers and groundsmen, to establish unity and consistency in approaches from grass roots up to the professional arena.
Mike Gatting, ECB
12.20 – 12.50 What’s the cost of going green – can you afford not to?
Will sports, leisure and grounds care industries follow the many other industries whose environmental policies are at the top of their agendas? As well as benefitting the environment, a sustainable environmental policy can reduce costs and be a powerful marketing tool in a competitive market.
Lee Penrose, STRI
12.50 – 14.00 Lunch
14.00 – 15.00 Allied Associations’ Case Studies: Gaining Respect for Members’ Work
The image enhancement efforts of The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA)
Bruce Dodworth, Seaglass PR and Kim Heck, Sports Turf Managers Association
Stadium tour (refreshments on return)
15.00 – 15.30 The future of lighting rigs in sport
The benefits of using lighting rigs in football stadia is well recognised but what opportunities do they offer for other sports? We look at a case study of their use in other sports.
Chris Wood, ECB
15.30 – 16.00 Research and development – managing stress in turfgrass
Turfgrass can be damaged by a wide range of biotic and abiotic factors including nematode pests, disease and weather. Anecdotal evidence has demonstrated the value of biostimulants (such as seaweed extracts) in reducing stress and alleviating damage symptoms in plants but current research is now identifying some of the mechanisms which may be involved in stress reduction. An understanding of these mechanisms may deliver enhanced control of pests and diseases, as well as methods to protect turfgrass from abiotic factors such as extreme temperatures and drought.
Dr Colin Flemming and Dr Kate Entwistle
16.00 – 16.30 Overcoming the skills gap
The introduction of the Apprenticeship, Learning and Schools Bill means an apprenticeship will be guaranteed for anyone who is qualified - how will the industry manage this and optimise the opportunity?
David Winn, Lantra
16.30 – 17.00 Round-up and close
A fringe programme and series of drop-in clinics will be available and running throughout the day.
Workshop Presentations:
Subject: Time:
• Pests and diseases – 11.20 – 11.50
• Health & Safety – 11.50 – 12.20
• Maximise your overseeding results – 12.20 – 12.50
• Pesticides – 15.00 – 15.30
• 2012 Fund – funding opportunities – 15.30 – 16.00
• Training & Education – 16.00 – 16.30
All workshops will be held above the main conference room in Director Box 1.
Drop-in Clinics:
Subject: Stand:
• Preparing for retirement - Perennial
• Going it alone – business advisory service - Barclays
• CV and careers clinic - Groundsearch
Drop-in clinics are available throughout the day. Simply visit the company’s display stand in the breakout area.
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Dan Duffy wins IOG Professional Football Groundsman of the Year Award
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(Published: Tue 15 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Dan Duffy, head groundsman at the Liberty Stadium, Swansea, has won the IOG Professional Football Groundsman of the Year Award 2009 for his outstanding achievements.
Dan was presented with the prestigious Award at the FA Groundsman of the Year Awards lunch by IOG Patron Eddie Seaward MBE and TV personality Mark Lawrenson at this month’s IOG SALTEX open space management exhibition in Windsor.
Runners up for the IOG Award were Paul Ashcroft of Arsenal FC (Premier League), Joe Aylett of MK Dons FC (Division One), Mike Phillips of Grimsby Town FC (Division Two) and Jim Dawson of Falkirk FC (Scottish leagues).
The IOG Award – which is adjudged on a set of criteria that includes pitch usage, available resources, machinery utilisation and problem management as well as health and safety issues – is a highly-prized accolade within football groundsmanship.
Aged 45, Dan’s tenure at the Liberty Stadium began in January 2005, after a spell at Haverfordwest FC once he arrived in the UK from Australia – where he spent 10 years at the North Sydney Oval.
His experiences at this multi-purpose stadium have stood him in good stead for his role at Swansea, he says, which is home to the Ospreys rugby team as well as Swansea City AFC.
Says Dan: “We average 54 games a season here on our Desso GrassMaster pitch, plus training sessions, accommodating a mixture of domestic rugby and football, Eurioopean Cup and International fixtures in addition to County league and cup games, IRB Youth World rugby fixtures, corporate events and music concerts (latterly The Who and Elton John).”
Dan, who manages this programme with one full-time assistant, adds: “Around six times each season we have rugby to football – football to rugby ‘double headers’ in the space of 36 hours, which means working through the night to green out the lines, change posts and generally repair/prepare the pitch. Not only does such a schedule put a strain on the groundscare routine but it also leaves the turf no time for recovery and regeneration before the next game.”
Accommodating this, of course, depends entirely on Dan’s expertise!
Commenting on the Award, chairman of the IOG judges Martin Ford, said: “Adjudging the Award is always an extremely challenging task and, indeed, all the finalists can be classed as ‘winners’.”
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IOG SALTEX A celebration of success
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(Published: Tue 15 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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13,500 visitors-attendance increased on 2008, 2007 & 2006 events
80 per cent of standholders rebook for 2010
HRH The Duke of Kent visits the show
With companies like DJ Turfcare saying this years IOG SALTEX has been the most memorable in 35 years – and Terrain Aeration confirming it had “a cracking show – its no wonder that over 80 per cent of standholders have already re-signed for next years event.
Visitors, too, to Windsor Racecourse this month were quick to applause IOG SALTEX: Our team of four from Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council thought this year’s event was a much better show, with much more variety of equipment on view. We checked out ride-on mowers and we selected two for demonstration. The suppliers will now come to Yorkshire so we can finalise a deal, said Mick Clegg, the Council’s Assistant Operations Manager.
HRH The Duke of Kent was included among the thousands of happy visitors: he spent a very busy afternoon touring the event and meeting exhibitors. HRH The Duke of Kent was welcomed to the show by the Lord Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, The Hon Mrs Bayliss, who presented him to Jeremy Bayliss; Councillor Jesse Gray and Mrs Christine Gray, Mayor and Mayoress of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead; Adam Afriyie MP; John Pullen, Managing Director of Royal Windsor Racecourse; and Eddie Seaward, Patron of the IOG.
“We were delighted to welcome HRH The Duke of Kent and his interest and support for our industry is really appreciated in such an economic climate,†said IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb. “I know that HRH The Duke of Kent enjoyed his time at IOG SALTEX, a view also shared by all the local dignitaries who were attending for the second year in succession.â€
With 455 company stands attracting over 13,500 visitors (pending ABC audit), which far exceeded last year’s attendance and was ahead of the attendance figure achieved in 2007 and 2006, it was clear that open space professionals from throughout the UK continue to steadfastly regard IOG SALTEX as the forum for everything they need to do their jobs more efficiently. As Nicky Moore, Head Groundsman at the University of Brighton confirmed: “It’s been an excellent day; the show is great for a general update on equipment, technologies and techniques for effective groundsmanship.â€
The wide range of products on display and available for demonstration throughout the showground not only emphasised every aspect of open space management but with grounds professionals increasingly embracing wider roles, the myriad of exhibits also met the growing trend towards multi-tasking. IOG SALTEX clearly provided a one-stop information and product shop to meet every need.
Hundreds of new products were launched among the thousands of tools, techniques and tips available for groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers. And it is clear that a high percentage of visitors were there with serious intent - not only to discover the latest money-saving ideas, but also to compare and buy the equipment.
As Lynda Green, Operations Director for Terrain Aeration, stated: “We took our first order before the show started – and the orders kept coming.†While David Jenkins, managing director of DJ Turfcare – which launched four new products - added: "This was by far the best show we have experienced and the quality of visitors was excellent.â€
New products abounded for turf care enthusiasts – for example, new mowers from Dennis, Etesia, FG Claymore, Hayter, Ransomes and Toro; while exhibitors such as BSG (tractors), GreenMech (chippers), Husqvarna (chainsaws), Reco (utility vehicles), Ryetec (flail collectors), Sisis (scarifiers), Stihl (hand tools), Tracmaster (rotovators) illustrated the wide range of equipment being showcased for the first time.
Innovation was evident across the show, and while technologies for turf care were in abundance the ‘science’ of synthetic surfaces was also being addressed – none more so than by Charterhouse and the IOG which are intending to jointly launch an Internet resource service where grounds professionals can seek advice on a wide range of issues.
As usual, the play equipment exhibits were also popular – and while Wicksteed’s presentation of new play experiences again attracted much attention, Gerry O’Sullivan of the Childrens Playground Company stated that “if your business is play equipment then IOG SALTEX is the business!â€
Visitor Robin Davis, Parks Manager at Reigate & Banstead Council concurred: “IOG SALTEX is the best place to keep up to date with play equipment by actually seeing it in the flesh.â€
The show caters for the complete open space management sector and evolves year on year to meet growing demands, including this time the introduction of a Nursery Stock Area and the Sports Equipment Zone, which were both bustling with business.
Also catered for is the arboricultural industry and as well as an exciting programme of lumberjack sports that drew crowds to the Gristwood and Toms stand, the schedule of demonstrations by the BTS Group of tree access, aerial rescue and chainsaw use and maintenance also grabbed attention in the World of Arb feature area.
The special ‘arb’ seminar sessions in the popular IOG SALTEX Education Programme were packed, as were the newly-introduced lunchtime networking sessions on Smart machinery management, Cricket, Synthetic pitches and Contractors.
As part of the comprehensive programme of well-supported seminars in The Grandstand, the updates presented by Chris Gray (carbon footprints), Charles Henderson of the STRI (natural/organic fertilisers), Dr Kate Entwistle (turf diseases), Paul Mathers of WRAP (green waste) and the Amenity Forum’s John Moverley (pesticides) all provided timely and informative updates for a wide spread of visitors.
The Grandstand was also the venue for the FA Groundsman of the Year Awards, which included the presentation to Swansea City FC head groundsman, Dan Duffy, as the IOG Professional Football Groundsman of the Year.
Of course, IOG SALTEX is also as much about imparting up-to-date advice and knowledge, and interspersed among the hundreds of exhibitor stands were the special feature areas.
The Sports Turf Skills Village and the Live Machinery Demonstration Area (in conjunction with the AEA) were again crowd-pullers, as well as the Intermediate Final of the WorldSkills UK Landscape Gardening competition, where the four teams from Capel Manor, CAFRE, Oatridge and Otley Colleges battled it out. The winners were Capel Manor College.
All in all, IOG SALTEX 2009 was heralded an overwhelming success – a fitting milestone as the IOG celebrates its 75th Anniversary.
IOG SALTEX 2010 will be held on 7-9 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.
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IOG SALTEX Sales and Marketing functions are brought In House by The Institute of Groundsmanship
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(Published: Tue 15 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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As the doors closed on this months highly successful IOG SALTEX open space management show 455 exhibitors welcomed over 13,500 visitors during the three-day event at Windsor Racecourse and 80 per cent of exhibitors re-signed for the 2010 event - the Institute of Groundsmanship is already moving forward positively with next years show on 7-9 September 2010 by taking complete control of all aspects of IOG SALTEX sales and marketing.
During past years, the event’s sales and marketing functions have traditionally been outsourced – latterly to UBM – but as part of the IOG’s continual drive towards re-investing all available funds towards its expanding membership services, these activities are now the total responsibility of the IOG, as Chief Executive Geoff Webb explains.
“Our contractors have done a sterling job over the years to continually develop and build IOG SALTEX as the most successful open space management event in the UK. The input of our partners like UBM has been invaluable in enabling the show to successfully evolve year on year in line with market demands and the requirements of our audiences – open space sector suppliers and visitors.
“This year’s event coincided with the renewal of contracts for the IOG SALTEX sales and marketing activities and, with the IOG’s determined efforts as a not-for-profit organisation to continue to enhance and expand our services to improve the status and recognition of our members and of the groundscare industry as whole, we have taken the decision to also embrace the IOG SALTEX sales and marketing functions. These will now complement the regime of show management that has always remained within the IOG and its IOG SALTEX site operations team.â€
He continues: “Importantly, Clare Johnson will continue as IOG SALTEX Sales Director, complementary to her role as Sales Director of the IOG magazines the ‘Groundsman’ and ‘Sports Turf, Amenity & Leisure’, so exhibitors will have confirmed continuity in their dealings over IOG SALTEX.
“The show’s marketing function will now be handled in-house from IOG headquarters and exhibitors can be rest assured that we will continue to promote the event in line with all expectations.â€
IOG SALTEX 2010 will be held on 7-9 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.
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IOG SALTEX team gave us the best show yet
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(Published: Tue 15 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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I would like to take this early opportunity after IOG SALTEX to thank the IOG team for organising such a tremendous show.
In more than 35 years of exhibiting this was by far and away the best IOG SALTEX I have attended.
From the site planning to the traffic management, every aspect ran smoothly and we were delighted at the number of quality visitors to the stand.
The IOG staff were always helpful, fast to react to inquiries and gave exhibitors proper time and attention to deal with queries. It was good to see a proper IOG showpiece pavilion at the entrance.
We were lucky with the weather, but the organisation skills of the IOG managing team gave the whole event new energy and all those we spoke to at the show were delighted with visitor numbers and inquiries.
I hope all at the IOG will continue to keep the Windsor event running on the same lines and in the same efficient way.
As an industry event it is one that we always look forward to.
Congratulations on a great IOG SALTEX.
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HRH The Duke of Kent presents long service award to Derek Walder BEM at IOG SALTEX
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(Published: Thu 10 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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HRH The Duke of Kent yesterday presented a long-standing service award to Derek Walder BEM to commemorate Dereks 27 years as Site Operations Manager of the annual IOG SALTEX exhibition.
The award was one of a number of presentations made by HRH The Duke of Kent during a very busy afternoon at the show which has so far this year recorded visitor numbers superseding those of last year and 2007.
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Grassroots sport and recreation to benefit from Bingo Lotto launch
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(Published: Tue 1 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Sports and recreation clubs across the UK are set to benefit from the launch of an interactive TV game, BingoLotto. Participants will be able to buy a 2 pound Gamecard at the check-outs at every Tesco store throughout Britain and each Gamecard will raise 40 pence for good causes. The TV game, hosted by Ulrika Jonsson, will air weekly on Virgin 1 every Sunday evening starting on 13 September.
The BingoLotto TV game has run in Sweden since 1991 where it has raised just under £1bn for charities and sports organisations. At least 20% from each Gamecard sold in Great Britain will be distributed to sport, recreation and voluntary projects up and down the country through CCPR and the National Council of Voluntary Organisations (NCVO). Profits will be distributed to the governing and representative bodies of sport and recreation through a ‘community interest company’ structure set up by CCPR, the umbrella body for these organisations.
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Lumberjack sports skills demonstrations make IOG SALTEX a cut above
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(Published: Tue 1 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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A series of exciting demonstrations of underhand log cutting and two-man sawing racing against a chainsaw is sure to draw the crowds to the Gristwood and Toms stand at the IOG SALTEX open space management exhibition at Windsor Racecourse on September 8-10.
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School Groundsmen Association at IOG SALTEX
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(Published: Tue 1 Sep, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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School Groundsmen Association.
When I first thought of the idea of a school groundsman association I thought maybe no one would be interested however once I posted the idea on pitchcare I quickly realised that the group had legs and now we are moving forward with our first meeting at this years Saltex on the Wednesday at 10 am in suite 8 of the grandstand.
The association is for all school groundsmen and I hope will allow us to pool our resources and move forward, giving each other support ideas and a voice in the wider arena.
We have a unique set of challenges and triumphs we have to be experts in all sports pitches not just one and have to meet the highest standards in all.
So if you can make it please come along and add your voice.
I look forward to meeting with you
Kind Regards
Ian Avery
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Rodney Heyhoe gets ready to prepare another pitch
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(Published: Fri 28 Aug, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Long-serving Lightcliffe groundsman Rodney Heyhoe has scooped the national Club Groundsman of the Year 2009 award from leading magazine Cricket World.
Facing stiff competition from all quarters of the UK, Heyhoe came out ahead of rivals from some of the country’s top cricket clubs.
Cricket World noted that Rodney’s energy and commitment to the development of his club and to groundmanship in the Yorkshire region were unparalleled:
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Turf: Handling hazards
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(Published: Fri 28 Aug, 2009)
(Accreditation: IOG News)
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Grounds managers need to be aware of health and safety issues, particularly where mowing on slopes is concerned
It may not look it, but mowing is one of the most dangerous jobs in grounds care. There have been three mower-related fatalities since 2001, while the regional press reports regularly on workers sustaining injuries while mowing.
Last year a 35-year-old man died after his ride-on mower toppled into a ditch in a village in the East Riding of Yorkshire, while a gardener on an Oxfordshire estate lost a leg after being thrown from a ride-on mower.
And already this month a council worker in Derbyshire suffered serious injuries when his ride-on mower slid down an embankment and toppled over a wall onto a road.
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Chelsea 4-1 West Ham
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Dominant Chelsea reclaim top spot in the league and heap more pressure on relegation-threatened West Ham.
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O'Driscoll praises Irish response
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Brian O'Driscoll says wins over England and Wales have been a great response to the heavy defeat in Paris.
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Wales ponder discipline 'stance'
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Brian O'Driscoll says wins over England and Wales have been a great response to the heavy defeat in Paris.
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Ennis & Chambers win gold in Doha
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Britain's pentathlete Jessica Ennis and sprinter Dwain Chambers are crowned champions at the World Indoors in Doha.
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Prost backs race refuelling ban
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Formula 1 legend Alain Prost rejects fears the refuelling ban will have a detrimental effect on racing this year.
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GB suffer poor opening day
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Great Britain team suffer a disappointing opening day at the Winter Paralympics as the curlers lose and skiing is postponed.
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Nadal cruises through on return
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC Sport)
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Reigning champion Rafael Nadal eases into the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells with a 6-4 6-4 win over Germany's Rainer Schuettler.
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UK and International News
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Bikers in Wootton Bassett tribute
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Thousands of bikers are to converge on Wootton Bassett to honour the people of the Wiltshire town - and soldiers killed in Afghanistan.
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US returns sarcophagus to Egypt
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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A 3,000-year-old wooden sarcophagus stolen from Egypt more than 125 years ago is returned from the US.
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Panic as emergency planners and water company scare residents
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Loud hailer announcements and a leaflet combine to cause fears of a nuclear emergency in a Dorset resort.
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Let's Dance champ Rufus scores with Cheryl Cole parody
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Comedian Rufus Hound is crowned Let's Dance champion in aid of Sport Relief after an entertaining parody of a Cheryl Cole hit.
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Live - Bahrain Grand Prix
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel is in pole position for the Bahrain Grand Prix, with Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso just behind.
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Live - Bangladesh v England
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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England close day three of the first Test against Bangladesh on 131-5, a lead of 434, having not enforced the follow-on after the hosts' 296.
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Wenger points to Arsenal desire
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Boss Arsene Wenger says Arsenal's 2-1 victory against Hull thanks to Nicklas Bendtner's last-gasp winner reflects their belief that they can win the title.
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Should the age of criminality be raised?
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(Published: Sat 13 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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The age of criminal responsibility should be raised from 10 to 12, says England's children's commissioner. Your views?
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Ask Mr Brown
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(Published: Sun 14 Mar, 2010)
(Accreditation: BBC News)
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Tough questions as undecided voters quiz the PM
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