Hybrid?

[The Crowing Cockerel]

I read with interest that Lewes were able to secure a £750k grant in order to install a Hybrid Pitch over the summer. It is 95% natural grass intertwined with a mesh carpet to ensure stability, as used in the Premier League. They describe it as "a state-of-the-art playing surface, and comes complete with embedded irrigation system, pop-up sprinklers and drainage to maintain the performance throughout the year." Having read that Town are considering installing an artificial pitch (a la Aveley, Worthing, Dorking etc) and wondered whether this type of hybrid might actually be a more attractive middle ground? Might there also be scope for obtaining a similar grant? Have the Board considered this option?

Whilst I see the financial benefits of a Worthing-style artificial pitch, I'd rather watch football played on a grass pitch. Plus, I understand there are arguments that it leaves players more prone to injury. I'll be very interested to hear reports on Lewes' new pitch.

Its also interesting to note that artificial pitches are not permitted in the football league. Recently promoted sides have had to tear up their 3G and re-lay turf - Sutton, Harrogate Town.