Charterhouse offers a range of equipment to help with the maintenance of artificial surfaces.

The Verti-Brush and Verti-Broom level and redistribute infill as well as sweeping the turf, while the Verti-Top (pictured) lifts the top layer of infill and filters it before returning the clean sand or rubber to the pitch and brushing in.

Although it is important to select the right synthetic surface, it is arguably even more crucial to maintain the surface throughout its lifespan.

According to turf consultant David Rhodes, synthetic pitches that are fitted and then forgotten about could lead to a shorter life for an expensive facility, and even worse, injuries to players.

Whilst a study has shown that 2G synthetics cost facility managers more per annum to maintain than grass, it is also pointed out that synthetic surfaces are often used up to 10 times as much as natural turf pitches.

The company recommends brushing the surface around twice a week, with the infill being recycled, brushed and filtered approximately four to six times per annum.