Wednesday 17th May 2000 : Abbey update

It is early in the close season so pre-season fixtures are yet to be confirmed, publication of the League fixture list is more than a month away and meaningful transfer speculation has yet to start, but it is busy behind the scenes at the Abbey Stadium.

A change of plan means that the surface of the pitch is not being lifted after all, with that major task being deferred until the proposed redevelopment can get underway - hopefully next Spring - but the drainage system is being worked on so the pitch is currently scored with diagonal trenches. The grass continues to grow at the usual rate of an inch a day so groundsman Trevor Ball is mowing it every day.

New security fencing is being erected behind the Main Stand and a team of volunteers are poised to begin painting the stadium, giving up their time to help the club as they do every summer.

Meanwhile in the offices, the end of year accounts are being worked upon and season ticket renewal forms are being prepared ready for posting at the end of the week, so season ticket holders should expect to receive their forms by early next week.