A GROUNDSMAN has been presented with a special award for his work to maintain a popular cricket pitch in Clacton.

Chris Russell won the Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Cricket Championship Groundsman Award at the annual meeting of the Essex Cricket Board Groundsman Association.

Mr Russell , who is a member of Tendring Council’s Open Spaces team, was given the award for his work preparing pitches at Clacton Cricket Club’s Vista Road ground during the 2017 season.

The pitches received top marks from a panel of umpires right across the season.

Stuart Kerrison, head groundsman at Essex County Cricket Club’s Chelmsford ground, presented Chris with his award.

Barry Dunwell, outgoing chairman of Clacton Cricket Club, said the club was fortunate to have such a hard-working, dedicated and conscientious groundsman preparing their pitches.

“It was not a surprise that Chris received this accolade for his efforts,” he added.

Chris works at a number of recreation grounds across the district.

Trevor Mills, open space manager at the council, added: "We all know how hard Chris works to look after our open spaces, and his sterling efforts at Clacton Cricket Club are just one example of his year-round fine work."