Drought affects UK sports venues, leaving pitches parched and dry

The UK is experiencing its driest summer on record, severely impacting sports venues across the country. Drought conditions have rendered many football and cricket pitches unplayable, with visible damage reported at locations like Cockfosters and Bray. Golf courses are also suffering, including at Weybrook Park where a manmade lake has dried up. As venues struggle to maintain playable conditions, ground staff are working to prepare the few viable cricket wickets. The situation continues to unfold as sports activities are impacted nationwide.

• 10:45 AMThe Guardian Sport — Running dry: drought-hit UK sporting venues and parched pitches – in pictures