The unsung heroes who ensure that thousands of games of football take place every season were presented with the National FA ‘Groundsman of the Year’ Awards at Windsor Racecourse on 7 September.

The awards, now in its fourth year, is open to 77 leagues of the Non-League pyramid, 154 clubs in the Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Football Leagues, 66 clubs from the Football Conference as well as over 450 Local Authorities.

The Groundsman of the Year awards aim to recognise the outstanding contribution that groundstaff make to grassroots football in England.

This year’s winners were:

  • David Baker from Penryn Athletic AFC;
  • Tommy Porter from Durham City AFC;
  • Andy Green from Braintree Town FC;
  • Martin Pinner from Solihull Borough FC;
  • Ted Scraggs from Bishop Stortford FC;
  • Charlie Skatchill from Hyde United FC, who was honoured with two awards in different categories and;
  • Derek Vernum from Peterborough City Council, who won the Local Authority Award.

A delighted David Baker said that the best thing about his work is ‘seeing the finished product and the reaction of the players when they play on the pitch.’

Derek Vernum, who supported David’s comment said: "I am really proud to have received this award, it is nice to be recognised for our hard work. A good playing surface is important at every level of the game and when our pitches meet with the players’ approval, the sense of achievement is fantastic."

Sir Trevor Brooking, The FA’s Director of Football Development, congratulated the winners on receiving their award.

"The outstanding contribution made by these people and the effort put into keeping the pitches in such excellent condition, all year round, make it possible for players of all standards to enjoy and improve their game.

"The FA is dedicated to developing the grassroots game and is investing over £25 million to this effect every year. This award recognises the dedicated work done by the people who are out in all weathers, ensuring that thousands of games take place every weekend up and down the country. Their effort deserves every accolade."