RANSOMES manager Peter Gorham has become ‘full time’ in his quest to bring success to the Sidegate Avenue-based club.

The 58-year-old has put roofing contracting on hold to take over from Ray Forsdike as groundsman at the multi-used complex.

“It’s a hard act to follow after Ray did such a wonderful job for 43 years,” said Gorham.

“Because of the financial situation at the club I thought that I would take it over – and I’ve committed myself for a year to start with.

“By having control of day-to-day affairs at Sidegate Avenue I can keep my finger on the pulse and I’m sure it will turn out to be of benefit to Ransomes.”

Gorham used to work on the Brantham Athletic pitch when he was with the current Ridgeons League Premier Division outfit, so he has some experience.

“It’s a new challenge, and I’m always up for challenges,” added Gorham.

“Although I didn’t think that I would have one as big as this at my age.

“I have done my research and appreciate that looking after a cricket square and a bowls green is hi-tech stuff, but I’m confident in my own ability.”

It is not just the grounds at Ransomes Sports Club that Gorham is looking after as his brief also runs to St Johns and Sidegate Lane Schools.

They have sports fields over the hedge from the Ransomes facilities and in total, Gorham has four full-sided football pitches and a number of small-sided ones to take care of.

“Financially my decision will help the club, but if it doesn’t work out after a year I can go back to roofing,” continued Gorham.

“I care and this will be reflected in the work I am doing.

“Ray was due to retire on October 23, but he has already left and so has Bob Hart who assisted Ray so ably most mornings.

“As I say they will be missed, but I am enjoying it so far and prepared the pitch for the last Ransomes first team home game.”

Suffolk have used Sidegate Avenue for Minor Counties cricket for a number of years with the square that Forsdike produced being rightly regarded as second to none in the area.

And Gorham says that he has no intention of just concentrating his efforts on benefitting the football club that he manages along with newly appointed assistant Ivan Radnor.

“Suffolk just played a one-day KO Cup game at Sidegate Avenue this year,” said Gorham.

“I shall be doing all I can to attract a three-day Minor Counties Championship match back to the ground next year.”

Looking ahead to the 2010/11 season, Ransomes are unbeaten after three games and in third position with Gorham saying: “I’ve brought in some new players and we’ve looking to do well.

“And I’m confident of doing well, but the main thing is that we all enjoy it.”