Cambridge United are delighted to announce Ian Darler has won the FA Groundsman of the Year Award for his work on the Cambridge United pitch.

The Football Conference put forward the R Costings Abbey Stadium playing surface as one of their top 5 nominations, meaning Ian was judged nationally with other Clubs at Steps 1-4 of the National League System.

A delighted Ian told cambridgeunited.com, "To finish my 30th year and pick this up as well is very nice!

"For things like this to happen, there has to be support all round and Jez George and Martin Ling have been really co-operative throughout the season especially with how bad the weather has been - it's a team effort."

Ian was also keen to praise the band of volunteers who help him to keep the Abbey pitch in top condition, "It's nice for all the others that are involved, it really is dedication."

Ian will be presented with his trophy at half time during the U's first home league match of the season against Crawley Town on Tuesday 17 August by FA representatives Maurice Armstrong (Chairman FA Pitches and Facilities) and Mark Liddiard (Regional Facilities and Investment Manager for East) as well as Roger Pawley, Bill Coad and Jim Hill from the Cambs FA.

Chairman Paul Barry added, "Taking into account the extreme weather problems last season, the pitch was in remarkable condition and everyone is delighted Ian and the ground staff's hard work has been recognised with this award."

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