Hastings welcome back man who will make a difference on the pitch

Known by all of the Us faithful, the former director and award winning groundsman is recognised by his incredible standards when it comes to pitch preparation and the club said they were delighted to welcome him back to the Pilot Field.

Supporters - and players - will be delighted about Rudkins coming back - he always had the pitch in first-class condition and worked tremendously hard to get it that way.

Rudkins is a multiple winner of the Isthmian League Groundsman of the Year award and was the National Groundsman of the Year (steps 3-4) for the 2014-15 season. He left the role last summer.

Rudkins said: “I am looking forward to coming back to a place that has been a big part of my life for a number of years. I will be doing my best to produce a decent playing surface to help the club achieve its goals."

Team manager Chris Agutter added: “It’s great to welcome Simon back to the team, very much like Scott White (Club Photographer) - the team at Hastings United stretches further than just the players, staff and directors. To have someone of Simon’s level and expertise back at the club is a huge boost to us all.”

Billy Wood, CEO, added, “When I was at my previous club I tried hard to get Simon to join as groundsman because I was a massive fan of his work. There is no denying that when it comes to football pitches Simon is the best around, the trophies prove that point. Simon believes in the direction of the football club and I am incredibly happy to welcome him back.