Life throws you curve balls

The observant amongst you will have spotted that Kerry Haywood's lovely brown eyes are not staring out at you from the foreword in the Feb/Mar issue of our magazine.

I can only apologise for the replacement image, but it falls to me to write this foreword whilst Kerry battles against breast cancer, a condition she became aware of just prior to Christmas.

Thankfully, her operation appears to have been a success and she will now undergo further treatment in an effort to completely rid herself of this awful disease.

It has been heart-warming to see many in the industry offering their support and best wishes, whilst Kerry herself was very brave posting on Facebook just prior to her operation. As we have always said; 'it's good to talk' and using social media in this way can only be a good thing.

So, having 'lost' our technical journalist in October, and with Kerry being away for a good few weeks, I have been left to hold the fort so to speak.

I need to offer a big thank you to our team of freelance journalists who have stepped up to help out in these difficult times, and to the groundsmen and greenkeepers who are featured in this issue. Additionally, suppliers have provided some interesting technical articles.

Talking of curve balls, BIGGA's decision to postpone BTME until March looks to have been a sensible one. Whilst we are aware that some exhibitors have pulled out due to the timing of the show, and that greenkeepers and groundsmen are concerned about taking time out during the start of the growing season, it was clear that BIGGA had little choice in the matter due to Covid restrictions at the time.

I believe that the show, and its attendant training and seminars, will be as vibrant as ever and that the attractions of a Harrogate evening will still see the show be a success.

Whilst it's easy for us as individuals to postpone a car or train journey by a couple of months with little or no repercussions, spare a thought for the various hospitality outlets in the town who would have had to restructure their requirements for the delayed influx of turfies. The beer orders alone would have been a nightmare!

And finally, thanks to all those who entered out 100th issue competition to win a Dennis machine. The winner was Carl Morton from Whiston Parish Church Cricket Club on the outskirts of Rotherham. His choice of a Dennis Razor Ultra is on its way to him.

Cheers
Peter Britton