BIGGA names 2026 BMW PGA Championship Volunteer Support Team

BIGGA names 2026 BMW PGA Championship Volunteer Support Team

/in , /by

BIGGA names 2026 BMW PGA Championship Volunteer Support Team

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has named the 19 greenkeepers who will join the course preparation team at Wentworth for this year’s BMW PGA Championship.

BIGGA names 2026 BMW PGA Championship Volunteer Support Team

BIGGA names 2026 BMW PGA Championship Volunteer Support Team

Selected from clubs across the country, the volunteers will work alongside Wentworth’s home team during championship week in September, helping prepare the West Course for one of the DP World Tour’s flagship events.

The group includes apprentices, assistants, deputies, head greenkeepers and course managers, who will gain first-hand experience of the precision, teamwork and intensity required to prepare a course for one of European golf’s biggest stages.

Wentworth is among the most prestigious names in world golf, recognised globally for its championship heritage, the Harry Colt-designed West Course and its long-standing role as the home of the BMW PGA Championship.

Selection feels particularly special for Josh Greenley, apprentice greenkeeper at The Gog Magog in Cambridgeshire, who has previously attended the tournament as a spectator.

Josh said: “As someone who has attended the BMW PGA Championship as a spectator, it’s a real privilege to now be part of the team preparing the course.

“While I was out cutting fairways, a notification came through my headphones confirming my selection – it genuinely made my day.

“I’m excited to experience first-hand what goes into preparing a championship venue of this calibre. Learning the precision, attention to detail and high standards required for an event like this is something I hope to take away and apply throughout my own career in greenkeeping.”

Stephen Jack, head greenkeeper at Pitreavie in Dunfermline, is also looking forward to joining the wider team and observing how the final stages of championship preparation come together.

Stephen said: “Getting news of my selection filled me with inspiration. I’m so excited to be involved in such a prestigious event.

“I’m looking forward to meeting and being part of the wider team and seeing how it all comes together during the final week of course preparations.

“I’m sure working alongside other greenkeepers in a high-profile tournament environment will be a beneficial experience for years to come.”

The BMW PGA Volunteer Support Team programme enables BIGGA members to broaden their professional experience, build relationships with greenkeepers from other venues and learn from the preparation of a globally recognised championship course.

The volunteers will become fully immersed in the Wentworth operation during the build-up to the tournament, contributing to the demanding programme of work required to deliver outstanding playing surfaces throughout championship week.

The 2026 BMW PGA Volunteer Support Team

Andrew Armstrong, assistant greenkeeper, Burnham Beeches

Daniel Bell, assistant greenkeeper, The Grove

Joseph Bound, deputy course manager, Royal Winchester

Cameron Braes, greenkeeper, Sheringham

Ian Briggs, assistant greenkeeper, Woodhall Spa

Max Campbell, assistant greenkeeper, Dundonald Links

Tim Fewster, deputy course manager, Cowdray

Josh Greenley, apprentice greenkeeper, The Gog Magog

Andrew Harding, course manager, Boyce Hill

Sam Hughes, spray technician, Ganton

Stephen Jack, head greenkeeper, Pitreavie

James Kenyon, assistant greenkeeper, Orsett

Shay McQueen, assistant greenkeeper, Romford

Dan Robson, head greenkeeper, Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf

Jokubas Shkeir, assistant greenkeeper, Royal Wimbledon

Joseph Tindall, assistant greenkeeper, Tyrrells Wood

Samuel Trusler, assistant greenkeeper, Thorndon Park

George Watton, deputy head greenkeeper, Ludlow

Matt Yates, course manager, Llantrisant and Pontyclun

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

/in , , /by

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

Under this collaboration, Wentworth has integrated 16 Kress Commercial RTKn autonomous mowers across the famous West Course as well as the driving and academy ranges. The Kress team alongside Winchester Garden Machine have provided comprehensive on-site training, joint performance evaluation, and close technical collaboration with Wentworth’s expert greenkeeping team to ensure optimal results.

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

Transformative Benefits for Wentworth

The implementation of Kress technology delivers substantial operational and environmental advantages:

Environmental Impact

  • Zero direct on-site emissions with significant overall CO₂ reduction
  • Reduced fuel consumption
  • Quieter operations protecting wildlife habitats and minimising disruption to members and properties on the estate

Agronomic Excellence

  • Consistent micro-mulching returning nutrients to the soil, reducing fertiliser requirements
  • Reduced ground compaction from lightweight electric units, supporting long-term turf health
  • Enhanced playing surfaces through precision cutting technology

Operational Efficiency

  • Cleaner, safer working conditions with no fumes, leaks, or fuel handling
  • Lower operational costs and reduced storage of hazardous materials
  • Optimised energy use through high-density battery technology and intelligent charging cycles
  • Freeing up staff from manual mowing to concentrate on other skilled tasks

Strategic Alignment

  • Clear support for Wentworth’s long-term sustainability and ESG commitments
  • Demonstration of innovation leadership in professional turf management

“Since installing the Kress autonomous mowers in October 2025, we’ve seen a noticeable uplift in the consistency and overall presentation of the West Course rough and our academy outfield and fairways, something our members have clearly recognised,” said Daniel Clarke,  Director of Greenkeeping & Estate.

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

Kress UK & Ireland partners with Wentworth Golf Club

“Winter conditions can make traditional rough cutting challenging, particularly on softer ground. The frequency of cut combined with the light footprint of the Kress units has removed that issue entirely, allowing us to maintain standards without compromising the turf. Consistency is a key focus for us, and the ability to deliver uniform, high-quality surfaces across the courses has been a significant step forward. The installation of the Kress mowers has been a valuable addition to our operation and has genuinely enhanced how we manage presentation.”

Strategic Value for Kress

For Kress, this partnership establishes a flagship national reference site, providing high-quality performance data and a world-renowned platform to demonstrate next-generation autonomous turf-maintenance technology to the professional green-space industry.

“This partnership reinforces Kress’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and supporting professional green-space teams with world-class solutions,” said Tony Macer, Sales Director at Kress. “Working alongside Wentworth’s renowned greenkeeping team allows us to demonstrate the real-world performance and environmental benefits of autonomous electric technology at the highest level.”

Looking Forward

Both organisations view this partnership as a long-term collaboration that will help define best practices for sustainable turf management across the golf and sports-turf sectors.

For more information, please visit https://www.kress.com/en-gb/

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

More Than 400 Join Campey to Celebrate 40th Anniversary

More Than 400 Join Campey to Celebrate 40th Anniversary

/in , , /by

More Than 400 Join Campey to Celebrate 40th Anniversary

Campey Turf Care Systems welcomed more than 400 turf professionals, customers and industry partners to its Bosley branch in Cheshire on Thursday 9 July 2026 for an event celebrating the company’s 40th anniversary.

More Than 400 Join Campey to Celebrate 40th Anniversary

More Than 400 Join Campey to Celebrate 40th Anniversary

The milestone event brought together people from across the turf industry to recognise four decades of innovation, education and partnership. The theme throughout the day was on the Past, Present and Future, highlighted with a replica of the infamous Delorian ‘Back to the Future’ car representing a peek at the past, present and future of turf care with examples of historical equipment alongside current machinery and a glimpse into Campey’s next chapter with the development of the Bosley site a particularly fitting setting for the celebration.

Opened in 2022, the branch represented a significant investment in the company’s future, providing additional showroom, machinery and stock capacity while supporting its expansion into agriculture, horticulture and professional landscaping. Located approximately 15 minutes from Campey’s original headquarters in Marton, Bosley has become central to that expansion.

The scale and versatility of the site provided an ideal setting for live machinery demonstrations. Visitors were able to see Campey’s extensive portfolio in action, including the Air2G2, Dakota spreaders and equipment from key manufacturing partners Imants and Vredo.

This practical focus has defined Campey since its establishment in 1986. Over the past 40 years, the company has worked alongside manufacturers, grounds professionals and greenkeepers to identify and introduce machinery that has helped advance the construction, renovation and maintenance of natural sports surfaces.

A programme of technical presentations complemented the live demonstrations. Campey Export Sales Manager Nick Brown shared lessons and opportunities from the company’s international work, while Stuart Yarwood of DLF examined the 40-year evolution of modern sports turf.

Paul Lowe of Aquatrols discussed surfactant technology, Kelly-Marie Clack of Origin Amenity Solutions focused on growing-in sports turf surfaces, and Alan Thomson of SIS Pitches explored the past, present and future of hybrid pitches. Away from the demonstrations and presentations, the relaxed atmosphere gave guests time to reconnect with colleagues and celebrate relationships formed across Campey’s four decades in the industry. Food and refreshments were provided throughout the day as customers, partners and friends marked the milestone together.

Organisations from across the sector also exhibited during the day, including the GMA, BIGGA, Origin Amenity Solutions, BAGMA, Aquatrols, DLF, Makita, Granit, Trimax, Howardson Group, and Staffordshire Football Association

Their presence, alongside Campey’s customers, suppliers and manufacturing partners, reflected the collaborative ethos that has underpinned the company’s success.

From its roots in Cheshire, Campey has grown into a global business supplying innovative turf care machinery and supporting customers in more than 100 countries.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Campey Chairman Richard Campey said: “I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked with so many talented people, loyal customers and trusted partners who have all played a part in this journey. Together, we have seen tremendous change in our industry, and it has been a privilege to contribute to that progress.

“As we celebrate this milestone, my thanks go to everyone who has supported Campey along the way. The future of turfcare is bright, and I am excited to see the next generation continue to innovate, educate and push boundaries.”

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Groundsperson

Groundsperson

/in /by

KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL WIMBLEDON

Groundsperson

Groundsperson

Start Date: September / October 2026

Salary: £32,078 plus excellent benefits including contributory pension scheme, health benefits, free gym membership, lunch during term-time.

We are seeking to appoint a keen and enthusiastic person to contribute to and provide strong support to the school’s grounds team.

Reporting to: head groundsperson

The groundsperson is responsible for undertaking tasks to assist with the maintenance of the general condition and availability of the school’s sports facilities, whether at the main KCS site or at Kingsway. They will work as part of an overall team of 6 grounds staff, and will report to the head groundsperson or his deputy.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

  • Under the direction of the head groundsperson, preparing and maintaining the sports facilities, including artificial surfaces, at the main King’s College School site and the sports grounds at Kingsway, to recognised national standards and to the satisfaction of all users
  • Providing grounds staff support to matches/fixtures when required
  • Implementing weekly, monthly and annual agreed maintenance programmes for all facilities, including the Old Boys’ sports pitches
  • Liaising with appropriate staff on the availability of sports facilities for lessons and matches, and advising on the fitness of pitches
  • Working with various different types of machinery and equipment to prepare and maintain football, rugby, cricket and hockey pitches, as well as artificial surfaces
  • Undertaking general maintenance of equipment as directed
  • Assisting with light tree pruning, hedge cutting and maintenance of paths, including leaf collection and spraying
  • Reporting problems on the ticketing system
  • Attending meetings and events, as directed
  • Undertaking any other reasonable duties as directed by the head groundsperson.

Person Specification

This is an ideal opportunity for an able and enthusiastic person to contribute to and provide strong support to the school’s grounds team.

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Previous experience as a groundsperson or similar
  • A good understanding of field markings
  • Experience of mechanical repairs and the ability to mend machinery and make small repairs
  • Knowledge and experience of working with synthetic sports pitches/surfaces
  • Ability to work well as part of a team
  • A flexible and enthusiastic approach to work
  • Ability to work without supervision and prioritise workload according to fixture lists and weather conditions
  • Relevant qualification in turf management (NVQ or similar) (desirable)
  • Driving licence (desirable)

Ideally we are looking for someone with relevant grounds experience, however we would consider applications from candidates seeking a change in career path and have a genuine interest in working outdoors with the school’s grounds team.

Full training will be provided for the right candidate.

Terms and Conditions

  • Start date September/October 2026
  • Salary: £32,078 per annum
  • 40 hours per week, normal working hours based around the core hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although some flexibility is required to accommodate seasonal variations
  • There may be a requirement to work every other Saturday with paid overtime
  • Contributory pension scheme
  • Programme of health benefits
  • Free lunch in the Dining Hall during term-time

King’s is one of the most successful schools in the world, with outstanding academic results, first-class pastoral care and a vibrant co-curriculum.  Overlooking Wimbledon Common, the school is situated in one of the most attractive parts of south east England and benefits from exceptional grounds and facilities.

To apply for this role, please register your details online via our website www.kcs.org.uk (under useful information / career opportunities).  Once you have registered your details with us, you can apply for vacancies by logging into the candidate area using your email address and chosen password.  You will be asked to fill an online application form which includes a covering letter.

Closing date: Thrusday 30th July 2026 at 09.00am

Interview date to be confirmed

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.

King’s is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. King’s College School is fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusivity in its recruitment of teaching and support staff.