Clubs face challenges as drought affects pitches in South East

Grassroots soccer clubs in the South East are facing challenges due to severe drought conditions, leading to postponements and relocations of matches. The FA has issued guidance to assess pitch playability, while the RFU has suspended fixtures until late September. Angela Walters, head of girls' football at Beacon Hill FC, expressed concern for player safety on bone-dry grass pitches. Gillingham FC has implemented rainwater collection strategies to mitigate the issue, while Kent County Cricket Club has invested in sustainable irrigation solutions. Clubs are advised to assess their pitches case-by-case as the season approaches.

• 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — How are sports clubs coping with drought?