My motviation for change started when I was a golf greenkeeper and spending a day spraying a pesticide, then going home and playing with my children. I realised that, even if I had showered and changed clothes, I could be spreading harmful pesticide residues around my home. I ask those who deride these efforts, "Why would we choose to do that?"

 

By 1999, when I was in my first position as a Golf Course Manager, I had completed a part-time HND in Turfgrass Science & Management and decided to continue my education by topping up to a BSc. (Hons). My Dissertation was on using compost for topdressing turfgrass surfaces, which opened up the world of soil microbes. I have progressed to study for, and achieved in 2021, a Master of Research (MRes) from the University of Nottingham, where I explored how a specific plant extract to reduce the need for supplementary lighting in sports stadia by enhancing photosynthesis.

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In 2007, I and a friend introduced carbohydrates and microbes to the UK turfgrass market and paved the way for the current universal adoption of biostimulants and low-risk turf treatments, long before 'sustainability' was a word. As a consultant and freelance product developer I have lead product innovation and sustainability projects across Europe, Scandinavia and Central America. I have supported leading sports stadia, golf courses, and international suppliers by developing plant extract biostimulants and microbial soil treatments.

 

I am proud to have shaped innovations once seen as 'quack ideas' but now regularly used to manage turfgrass surfaces in the Premier League, on Open Championship venues, and in high-profile international facilities.

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In addition to my commercial work I contribute to industry education as a Course Tutor at Warwickshire College, from 2002 to 2007, creating and managing NVQ Level 2 & Level 3 Apprenticeships, and Higher Education programmes. I am currently employed by Myerscough College as Senior lecturer for Sportsturf Agronomy (Online provision), delivering Foundation Degrees (FdSc), Honours degraees (BSc(Hons) and Masters (MSc Sustainable Sportsturf Management). I also regularly write for greenkeeping and sports turf trade press and have spoken at the BTME, SALTEX and other national events.

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All these experiences of solving challenges, and advanced knowledge of turfgrass and soil science, has resulted in the development of my BioNutrition for Turfgrass Surfaces. I am available to help you with:

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• solving challenges on your turfgrass surfaces

• advising and project managing construction schemes

• developing and delivering staff improvement programmes.

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Today, through South West Agronomy, I combine scientific expertise with practical experience to deliver innovations that solve the challenges of managing your turfgrass surfaces.