But keeping pitches in great condition takes time, expertise and the right equipment; which is a significant expense for amateur clubs.

T H WHITE Groundcare has partnered with Gloucestershire Football Association to help clubs across Gloucestershire, Bristol and South Gloucestershire improve their facilities and invest in their grounds.

Running through to the 2027/28 season, the partnership helps clubs access Football Foundation Machinery Grants, which can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with grants of up to £50,000. T H WHITE’s Groundcare specialists support clubs through the process, identifying suitable machinery from the applications sent which provide the technical specifications needed for grant application machinery.

With access to leading brands including Toro, Iseki, Wessex, GKB and Kress, clubs can benefit from professional equipment at a significantly reduced cost through the scheme.

Making a difference at Lydney Town AFC Youth

One club already benefiting is Lydney Town AFC Youth. Working with the club, T H WHITE’s Mike Harris helped select and supply an Iseki TG6407 40hp tractor, complete with an air-conditioned cab, a Wessex RMX 180 trailed roller mower and a GKB Combi Tool, capable of carrying out up to four operations, including aeration and scarification. The GKB Tool offers valuable versatility for pitch maintenance. The tractor was chosen for its ease of use and ideal size for the grounds the club needs to maintain.

When Jamie Cooke, Chairman of Lydney Town AFC Youth took delivery of the new kit, he said:

“This equipment will really help the club – the grounds team are already excited about having it. I want to thank the Football Association for making it possible for Lydney Town AFC Youth to partner with T H WHITE and the Dean Academy for home games to ensure the grounds are in the best condition for the team to play.”

Together, T H WHITE Groundcare and Gloucestershire FA are helping clubs overcome the challenges of grounds maintenance, improve playing conditions and create better facilities for their communities. Because great football starts with great facilities.