Slimbridge joint-manager Tom Deakin demonstrated remarkable commitment ahead of last Saturday’s pre-season friendly against League Two side Cheltenham Town by personally ensuring the pitch at Thornhill Park was adequately prepared despite challenging weather conditions. During a recent extended heatwave that left the pitch parched, Deakin spent the night before the match sleeping in the clubhouse, waking every two hours to reposition the sprinkler system and keep the playing surface as well-watered as possible.

“We tried to get as much water on the pitch as we could, knowing how dry it had been,” Deakin said following the game. He added that the secluded and quiet location of the ground made the overnight vigil unexpectedly peaceful.

The friendly attracted close to 500 spectators, reflecting strong local interest in the match. Despite Cheltenham Town’s 6-1 win, Deakin expressed pride in his players’ effort and remained positive about the event. “It was a great day for the club, it makes all the hard graft everyone puts in week after week worth it when we have days like that,” he commented. Deakin co-manages the team alongside Michael Palmer.

Slimbridge, recently promoted as champions of the Hellenic League Premier Division, are preparing for their return to Southern League Division One South, marking their second stint at Step 4 of the English football pyramid. The club’s upcoming fixtures include an FA Cup tie away at Burnham on Saturday, followed by their first home league game of the season on August 15 against Swindon Supermarine.