Visitors from around the world expected at IOG SALTEX trade fair

Visitors from all over the globe will converge on Royal Windsor Racecourse this week as one of the world's biggest trade fairs comes to town.

Anyone involved in the care for sports grounds, parks or playgrounds will find something to excite them at the annual IOG (Institute of Groundsmanship) SALTEX Trade Fair.

The three-day event will run all day on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Every sort of product for managing grass, trees and play equipment will be on view, covering the complete range of grounds care for anyone who manages outdoor spaces.

But for every professional groundsman or woman there are numerous 'amateurs' - dedicated men or women who devote their time for free to the upkeep of their town or village's cricket, football or bowls grounds.

Spokesman Colin Hoskins said people like this will have a unique chance at this year's fair to learn from the best.

Special educational clinics will be run, featuring some of the country's most important groundsmen.

He added: "We are expecting groundsmen from the some of the most famous sports grounds in the country - Tottenham, West Ham, Wimbledon, Twickenham. It will be a real chance to ask the expert."

Other educational programmes will be run, featuring debates on issues like high usage and soil irrigation - relevant to every groundsman or woman, plus updates on the latest advice about pesticide use.

There will also be a debate by the Parks Alliance on the state of Britain's parks.

But of course the fair is mainly about doing business.

More than 230 SALTEX exhibitors will be bringing their latest products and equipment for potential buyers to look at - with the world's top brand names represented.

Visitors can register online for free admission.

The fair opens from 9am to 5am on Tuesday and Wednesday, and 9am to 4pm on Thursday.