EPPING Cricket Club groundsman Stephen Hyde has received an award for his hard work in preparing wickets.

Stephen was presented was commended by Cricket World magazine in a national competition for his efforts at the Lower Bury Lane ground.

He received his certificate at the club's committee meeting at Hemnall Street social club this week.

Former captain Stephen took over management of the club's square three years ago and his hard work has already started to bear fruit with the wickets now having more consistent bounce and performance.

Club chairman Geoff Maynard: "It is obvious to say but the wicket is the most important part of a cricket club and Stephen's hard work is starting to rejuvenate what was to be honest once a poor wicket into a decent one now.

"We are proud to have him as our groundsman and he fully deserves this award.

"Stephen carries his work - many hours a week - free of charge and puts his heart and soul into and we are very grateful to have him."

The Cricket World and Pitchcare Groundsman of the Year Awards are now in their fifth year and recognise the hard work and high standards achieved by cricket groundsmen in the recreational game.

A spokesman for Cricket World said: "We had the most entries so far in the five years that it has been running and the judging process has become more and more refined - so many congratulations on the achievement."