Long-serving Lightcliffe groundsman Rodney Heyhoe has scooped the national Club Groundsman of the Year 2009 award from leading magazine Cricket World. 

Facing stiff competition from all quarters of the UK, Heyhoe came out ahead of rivals from some of the country’s top cricket clubs. 

Cricket World noted that Rodney’s energy and commitment to the development of his club and to groundmanship in the Yorkshire region were unparalleled: 

For Lightcliffe
*Twenty years on Lightcliffe committee,
*15 years as groundsman
*10 years as Club Secretary
*5 years as Junior Cricket Co-ordinator;

For the Bradford League
30 years on the Junior Executive
17 years on the League’s main board with responsibility for all grounds issues.

For the YCA/YCB
Chairman of the Groundsmen’s  Association and on the Cricket Council for many years.

Lightcliffe CC Chairman John Brooke said:  "Rodney’s life in cricket started 55 years ago when he came to Lightcliffe CC as an eight year old. 
" His contribution to our club, the Bradford League and to Yorkshire cricket since then has been immense. 

" Rodney’s time and expertise has been willingly given at all levels and to all-comers for no financial gain for well over 30 years. He is an inspiration and example to all.” 

“Rod’s pitches are recognised as the best in the League by all who play on them.  His groundsmanship knowledge is immense and happily shared with all who are looking for advice” said club secretary, Steve Hartley.

“I’m honoured to receive this award” said Rod. "I’m also pleased the award has come to the North of England where often we battle the elements to produce top pitches.

"My only aim is to produce great conditions for our senior cricketers and great surfaces to develop our many junior teams”.

Rodney’s prize is a trip to Lords to watch the nPower Village Cricket Championship final on September 14.  There he will be presented with his award and be treated to lunch in the famous Lord's Tavern.