Head groundsman Sid Fletcher aims to deliver a ‘pitch to be proud of’ as renovation work continues at Crabble ahead of the new season.

The old playing surface was ripped up in April and work on a new state-of-the-art hybrid pitch , a close season gift from Chairman Jim Parmenter and his wife Sally, started last month.

The new surface blends grass with plastic fibres, technology used at Premier League grounds.

This type of surface is more durable, less prone to flooding or freezing and due to the unique specification allows for more efficient grass growth as well as increasing playing comfort.

Fletcher, who will be at the helm for a fifth season, says all is going well with his new pride and joy.

He said: “I am really happy with the progress that has been made and the weather has not been too bad to us as well which really helps.

“It (the surface) had its first cut earlier this week and will be fed again this week too.

“The grass is growing upwards and now the key is to get it going outwards too to start thickening it up.

“All being well, it should have another cut soon and then have some lines cut into it – it will start looking like a football pitch then!