Today we reveal which stories were the 10 most read by TurfPro subscribers throughout 2023.
The articles that garnered the most attention were once again the expert, knowledgeable and passionate editorials written by TurfPro editor Laurence Gale and his invited specialist guest authors - as well as unusual and eye-catching news stories.
So without further ado, in order of ascending popularity, here are the most read stories in TurfPro of 2023.
10.
STATEMENT ON 3G PITCHES ISSUED - 24th April 2023
In response to questions and concerns regarding 3G artificial grass pitches a joint statement was issued by key stakeholders, the DCMS, Sport England, sportscotland, Sport Wales, the GMA, Football Foundation, The FA, RFL, SAPCA and England Rugby.
9.
ANOTHER NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF GRASSROOTS RUGBY - 20th February 2023
TurfPro editor Laurence Gale wrote an impassioned editorial where he explained how it was tragic to hear about the many issues facing rugby clubs up and down the country
8.
SENIOR RESIGNATION AT BIGGA - 11th December 2023
BIGGA announced the resignation of their chief operating officer, Sami Strutt, who will depart the association in February 2024 before taking up a role as education director at the Bernhard Academy.
7.
COUNCILS IN CRISIS - 18th December 2023
With several councils declaring themselves bankrupt in 2023, Loz voiced his concern that we will see further cuts to the maintenance of our parks and public open spaces - which he believed for many years had already been on a downward spiral.
6.
DISGUSTING VANDALISM - 2nd October 2023
In a heartfelt editorial, Laurence reflected on the tragic news of the disgusting vandalism of the felling of an iconic native landmark - the 200 year old Sycamore Gap tree at Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland.
5.
WE MUST DEVELOP OUR OWN STAFF - 20th February 2023
Guest editor, Karl McDermott, head groundsman of Lord's, wrote that turf professionals must educate their teams about as many aspects of the job as possible.
4.
SALTEX ANNOUNCES FIGURES - 13th November 2023
The GMA, organisers of the SALTEX exhibition, said that 2023's show saw over 7,900 visitors to the two-day event.
3.
MY TOP FIVE CONCERNS - 19th June 2023
Guest editor, Andrew Turnbull, director of SouthWest Agronomy Ltd, highlighted the five principal issues that he believed were facing those who prepare and manage turfgrass surfaces, with a view to raising awareness and discussion so that change could occur.
2.
F.R JONES IN ADMINISTRATION - 17th July 2023
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F.R Jones And Son Limited, one of the most well known names in the UK dealer sector, ceased trading and entered administration. The Swanley, Kent based dealership that specialised in turf care and arboricultural products, had been established since 1963 and was one of the largest dealerships in the UK.
1.
A CRISIS IN GOLF - 23rd October 2023
In a call-to-arms editorial, Laurence Gale fumed that turf professionals are treated as second class citizens, writing that it is staggering that in the eyes of outsiders they are mostly viewed as purely grass cutters - and worse still, continue to be poorly paid.
