STRI resigns following Wembley pitch problems

A YORKSHIRE-based turf specialist responsible for Wembley Stadium’s pitch has resigned.

Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI), based in Bingley, has been responsible for the stadium’s playing surface for the last 13 months.

To much criticism, the pitch has been relaid 11 times since Wembley reopened in 2007.

STRI chief executive Gordon McKillop said: “We have had many constructive and positive discussions with Wembley over the last few weeks on what would be the best way forward to make significant improvements to the pitch.

“This new structure of pitch does not require the previous level of research and consultancy from the STRI team and, therefore, we feel it is the right time to resign.”

The Football Association will use Desso Sports Systems on a trial basis to lay the pitch for the FA Community Shield in August.