THE grass is always greener for Reaseheath College student Dave Newton.
His greenkeeping skills have earned him a top award.
Dave, 47, was runner-up in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year competition.
He beat more than 3,000 hopefuls to the finals of the contest which recognises the technical skills needed to keep greens looking their best.
Dave gained his NVQ Levels Two and Three in sports turf by studying part-time at the Nantwich college and works for Arrowe Park Golf Club in Birkenhead.
The dad-of-one became fascinated in turf maintenance when he took up golf. He said: 'You need a lot of skill to look after a golf course properly.
'Most players don't appreciate what a technical job it is to keep the turf at its best throughout the seasons.
'You need to know about soil science and types of grass as well as having practical skills, and you definitely need qualifications to progress.
'I would recommend greenkeeping to anyone who enjoys being outdoors. It's a really satisfying career with good prospects.'
Senior sports turf lecturer Gareth Phillips, who recommended Dave for the award, said: 'He has been a superb student and thoroughly deserved his success. I understand he missed the top spot by just a few marks.'
