Groundstaff

After many years under the excellent stewardship of former Ground Curator John Ward (pictured right), responsibility for the playing area now lies with Bob Scott who is assisted by his spinner son Craig.

Wardy's act is a very difficult to follow and he presided over an era when Abberton's square and outfield were the envy of almost every club in the region.

Although he will no doubt be available for 'advice' (except on Friday), Wardy firmly passed the baton to Bob in 2008 and he immediately had to endure a baptism of fire as the outfield remained flooded in many parts during the months of May and June when many home games were lost to the weather. Periods such as this can be provide a very trying time for the groundstaff as players, despite being totally unqualified and, in some cases possessing an IQ that barely challenges their shoe size, pass opinion on the state of the ground and openly challenge decisions made.

Nobody in their right mind (and John Everett is not included within this classificfation) wants games to be cancelled but, when areas of the ground are clearly under two inches of water, it is fairly plain to see that play is not possible.

Everett is another whom is unable to operate this year in his previous cacapcity of Deputy Assistant Junior Groundsman (on-site) due to an increasing number of bodily infirmities, ailments and illnesses. This just leaves Bob and Craig (pictured left laughing at Andy Lockyer in the nets) to cope with whatever the weather throws at them.

Please therefore spare a thought for them and, if you can give any time at all, offer to be of assistance. The only exception to this is that Dave Digby need not apply for the position of boundary marker!