Mud, Sweat and Shears: Tales from the Turf is a captivating football memoir that lifts the lid on life behind the scenes at Burnley FC through the eyes of legendary groundsman Roy Oldfield. Co-authored by Dave Thomas, this book chronicles Roy’s remarkable journey from working as a miner to becoming one of the Football League’s most respected turf experts during the 1970s and 1980s. Readers get a gritty, humorous perspective on the daily challenges of maintaining the Turf Moor pitch—battling brutal weather, limited resources, and the ever-watchful eyes of directors—long before the era of pristine, high-tech football fields. With only a mower, wheelbarrow, forks, and sand, Roy Oldfield’s ingenuity and dedication kept the pitch playable, earning praise from football icons like Brian Clough, Bill Shankly, Denis Law, and Kevin Keegan. His story offers an authentic glimpse into the real work that kept English football running during an age of mudbaths and snow-covered games, showing the heart, humour, and resilience needed behind the scenes. Mud, Sweat and Shears is essential reading for football fans, history lovers, and anyone curious about the unseen heroes who shaped the game.
The book has maintained its excellent condition over the years. And is in good condition. ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd
Price: £5.99
Published: 2017
Paperback: 320 pages
Archival Dust Jacket System Purchase Here
