Following the final match on the weekend of 16 May 2025, the pitches were prepared for seeding. During the following week, they were both seeded and fertilised. A brief respite from the drought brought some rainfall, which allowed the grass to germinate strongly. When the dry conditions returned, growth naturally slowed, but we had retained seed in reserve to support further establishment.

At the beginning of August, we reseeded by cross-seeding and fertilising. Again, there was a short break in the drought, and the rainfall once more encouraged good germination. This time, the lack of further rainfall was offset by an operational irrigation system, which enabled us to keep the soil moist until the drought eventually broke. Alongside the new grass, some knotweed also appeared, which initially made growth a little uneven, but this was quickly addressed.

Once the drought ended and we began receiving regular rainfall, supplemented by irrigation, the grass thrived. Last week, a hormone-based selective weedkiller was applied to keep the knotweed in check, and this is now taking effect.

On Monday 15 September, Todd Harrison, an RFU Grounds Consultant, visited the club to assess the playing surfaces. He noted that, as is typical at this stage of establishment, the root structures were still developing and had not yet reached the depth required to withstand heavy use. He also advised that slitting or verti-draining would be best delayed until the roots strengthen further. Additional fertilisation is planned to support deeper rooting and continued growth.

At present, we are mowing at least twice a week, and the sward is becoming progressively stronger. With continued care and management, the seed is well placed to deliver a resilient, high-quality playing surface for the long term.