Following his success in the North West and West Midlands FA Groundsman of the year, Robin Park Arena’s Cliff Aspey attended the FA’s National Awards on September 8^th at Windsor Racecourse, where he was competing against other regional winners.

The event which recognises the efforts of Groundsmen ranging from the Premier League through to Local Authority pitches is in it’s third year and this was the first time that Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust had put forward one of their staff.

The guests of honour at the event were Premiere League referee Jeff Winter and 1970’s World Cup referee Jack Taylor, who were on hand to present the awards.

Cliff was short-listed in the Local Authority category, and was delighted to be awarded the runner up prize, ahead of last year’s winner Jersey, and just pipped by Harrogate Borough Council.

Robin Park Centre Manager, Mike Woodruff stated after the event, "We are immensely proud of Cliff’s achievement, knowing the time and effort he puts into making Robin Park Arena one of the finest playing surfaces in the Country. The award is fully deserved and who knows, next year we’ll be hoping to go one better and claim top spot."