HI-TECH work began this week designed to keep Bury's Gigg Lane pitch in pristine condition for the coming season.

A specialist firm from Macclesfield - who have treated soccer grounds throughout the country - arrived at 6.30am on Tuesday to begin tearing up the pitch and relaying a new one.

The work will cost about £6,000, far more than the club usually pays, but it is hoped the extra expense will ensure the pitch is in much better condition for the whole of the campaign.

Last season it was particularly bad and at times, with so much sand and so little grass, for the supporters it was more like watching beach soccer.

The problems have bneen mainly caused because so many matches take place at Gigg Lane.

As well as Bury games, Swinton rugby league and Manchester United reserves also play at Gigg on a regular basis.

Last season all the activity took its toll and the pitch - once the envy of the clubs throughout the country - was in the worst condition it has been in recent memory.

This work however should solve the problems.

The firm, Richard Campey Ltd, have removed the first inch and a half of turf. Then the soil is turned and levelled before the pitch is reseeded.

The grass should start growing back within two weeks and - touch wood and weather permitting - the pitch will be in perfect condition come the start of the new season in August.

"It is quite amazing how they do it and how quickly. It is all done in a day and then we just have to wait for the grass to grow back," said Bury groundsman, Eric Skeech.

"They are a firm who have done work all over the country and hopefully the pitch will be back to its best next season."

The first test for the new pitch is likely to be on August 8 when Premiership champions Manchester United roll into town.