To help meet the challenges of keeping heavily used sports pitches in top condition at its Canterbury campus, Head Groundsman Chris Wright took advice from Sandy Pentecost, Technical Sales Representative of British Seed Houses.

Lee Ballard and Chris Wright.

Sandy recommended using the company’s A30 Rapid Sports Renovator Plus to overseed the pitches because it is a high performance, hardwearing mixture which is cost effective and offers good recovery.

The estates department was so impressed with the quick germination and establishment when the seed was used last spring that it was their choice again for this year.

Chris said: “We have been very pleased with the results; it does what it says on the tin. The first time we sowed A30 it took within one and a half weeks and this spring, even though it was quite dry, it took two and a half weeks to come up.

“We chose it after Sandy came to see us and advised what would be the best for our pitches and meet our requirement to deliver good value for our budget. He is always at the end of a phone if we need further advice.”

Chris, who has been at the site for four years, looks after six hectares in total with Assistant Groundsman Lee Ballard. They maintain three football pitches, two rugby pitches and a cricket outfield.

The sports facilities are not only used by the University’s students but also by local sports clubs and Gillingham Academy.

The heavy demands made upon the pitches mean that the grounds team has to get its maintenance regime right. When the last of the regular football matches is held on May 29 there is little let-up as it is followed by a football tournament in June and Gillingham will be back on 9 July.

Chris added: “We need to be confident that the grass seed we apply will do the job and grow well.”

Sandy Pentecost added: “Our Grade A mixtures are noted for their quality and dependability. The A30, which includes Cadix and Carnac perennial ryegrasses, is perfect for professionals looking for a high performance, hardwearing mixture that is suitable for winter pitches.”