DORCHESTER RFC REPORTS EARLY BENEFITS

Dorchester RFC has said it is already seeing improvements in pitch quality after receiving two STIGA A5000 robot mowers through the manufacturer's partnership with England Rugby.

The Dorset-based club has been using the autonomous mowers to maintain its rugby pitches at a higher cutting height than was previously possible with contractor-operated gang mowers.

According to Rob Greatorex of Dorchester RFC, the club has increased grass height from around 30mm to 60mm, helping the sward better withstand both winter conditions and the recent dry spring weather.

“The sward is recovering quicker, thickening up nicely, and overall the pitch is in much better condition,” said Rob. “It’s a real game-changer, and it also reduces our reliance on contractors, delivering significant cost savings for the club.”

The club reports that the machines are comfortably covering the required mowing area, while flexible scheduling allows cutting to take place around training sessions and matches.

Rob also praised the mowers’ battery performance and the company's technical support, describing both as key factors in the successful introduction of the technology.

STIGA said the project demonstrates the growing role that robotic mowing technology can play in sports turf management, helping clubs maintain playing surfaces while reducing maintenance costs and labour requirements.