LIFE is a pitch for Forest Green groundsman Matt Rainey after landing a new job at Cheltenham Town.

Rainey, who has spent six seasons at the Blue Square Premier club, will move to the Robins on June 20 to take charge of their Seasons training pitches and assist head groundsman Terry Roberts at the Abbey Business Stadium.

Despite his tender years, the 29-year-old has forged a reputation as one of the best in the business and came close to landing two Premier League jobs before being snapped up by Cheltenham.

Three years ago he was named top groundsman in the Blue Square Premier at the annual FA awards, and he is looking forward to plying his trade at a higher level.

He said: "This is a great opportunity for me because Cheltenham have a great set-up and potential.

"They are similar to Forest Green in terms of being a warm, friendly club, but obviously they represent a step up for me.

"It feels like the right time. I made it to the final three for two Premier League assistant groundsman jobs and I want to work my way up the ladder."

Rainey, from Stroud, has experienced some dramatic and turbulent times at Forest Green.

His first season as groundsman was at the old Lawn stadium, after which the club made the short journey to their current £3.5 million home.

Plenty of pressure rested on his young shoulders, yet he quickly gained plaudits for a superb playing surface.

He has since has to contend with managerial changes, boardroom upheaval and extreme weather conditions ranging from flooding to snow.

Rainey singles out the FA Cup third round thriller against Derby County in January 2009 as the highlight of his tenure – a game which came perilously close to being postponed due to freezing temperatures.

"There was a lot of worrying about the pitch, right up until about 9am when a team of volunteers arrived to lend a hand, and it ended up being a magical day," said Rainey.

"I was always amazed by the number of people who gave up their time on match days, clearing up snow and removing covers, and I'd like to thank all of them."

Rainey is sorry to be leaving Rovers after a season of disappointment, culminating in relegation, and he admits the club's problems on and off the field have been a factor in his decision.

He said: "I'm proud to have played a part in the club's progress over the last five or six years and it's a shame that things have gone a bit backwards

"Like everybody, I've got bills to pay and had to think of myself after the club dropped down a level.

"But it looks like they might get a reprieve and I really hope they do because the pitch and facilities are Blue Square Premier standard."