Photo essay: It's turf at the top for an unsung Leeds United hero

Life's a pitch for Kiel Barrett '“ and he loves every second of it.
PIC: Jonathan GawthorpePIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe
PIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe

Kiel is head groundsman at Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium, looking after the hallowed turf that has been graced over the years by the legendary likes of Billy Bremner, Eddie Gray and Jack Charlton.

His high-tech approach – which includes using machines and products from as far afield as the USA – is a long way removed from the methods that would have been employed during the heyday of Bremner and co.

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But one of the challenges of the role is the same as it always has been – namely, dealing with the unpredictable moods of Mother Nature.

PIC: Jonathan GawthorpePIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe
PIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe

“We’ve been struggling with the drainage because of all the rain,” Kiel told the Yorkshire Evening Post. “I love the work, though – it’s more like a hobby than a job!”

PICS: Jonathan Gawthorpe

WORDS: Paul Robinson