Ground staff recognised for outstanding work

The grounds team, led by Daniel Sparks, are shortlisted for a number of awards, whilst also receiving positive feedback from the EFL.

Following a comprehensive review from referees and visiting managers, the EFL playing surfaces committee rated Ashton Gate’s DESSO surface 4.06 out of a possible 5 marks, compared with a divisional average of 3.97.

The spectacular playing surface has also been nominated for rugby grounds of the year, while head grounds man Sparks is shortlisted for young grounds man of the year by the Institute of Groundsmanship.

Ashton Gate managing director Mark Kelly said: “We’re proud of the effort and commitment that our dedicated ground staff have shown throughout the season.

“They’re often the unsung heroes behind the scenes, but everybody associated with both Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears recognise the consistently superb quality of the playing surface.

“In a particularly challenging season of rain and sub-zero temperatures, coupled with more than fifty usages of the pitch throughout busy football and rugby campaigns, we’re delighted that Dan and his team have delivered a surface fitting to the world class surroundings of Ashton Gate.”