A Southgate football team gave an extra big cheer last week, when their groundsman was named the best in London by the Football Association (FA).

Oakhill Tigers, who play at Southgate's Walker Ground, nominated Steve Martin as they felt his work on all the pitches deserved some recognition.

"Steve was nominated by Oakhill Tigers for the award because we recognise that we are fortunate to play on the best pitches in the area, and that's entirely a result of Steve's efforts," explained Tigers' club secretary Dick Pacey.

Martin was also rated the third-best groundsman in south-east England, and the accolade follows on from him being named as runner-up in the England and Wales Cricket Board's outgroundsman of the year.

Martin said: "It was a surprise to be nominated. It came completely out of the blue. I've played football to a decent standard so I guess I know what kind of pitches people want to play on, and that's what I try and give them.

"It the Walker Ground is a wonderful place to come and play sport, and I must admit everybody that comes here always says they want to come and play here,

and that's nice."

On the pitch, the Tigers have enjoyed another successful season with the U11 Cubs team winning their division of the Watford Friendly League and the club's Amber team reaching the finals of both the Challenge Cup and the League Cup.

May 2, 2003 14:00