THE Institute of Groundsmanship has revealed it is looking into the dismissal of Ken Hare as head groundsman at Southend United.

Yesterday’s Echosport revealed how the Shrimpers had decided to part company with the long-serving Hare following Saturday’s postponed League One clash with Bolton Wanderers at Roots Hall.

And the IOG, who are the professional body for groundsmen and groundsmanship in the UK, are now keen to find out more about Hare’s situation.

“The dismissal of the Southend United FC groundsman, who is an IOG member, brings immediate questions and concerns - and we are engaged urgently in determining the facts behind this action, through appropriate enquiries,” said the statement issued last night.

“The club’s action has attracted national media attention which reflects the shock across the groundscare industry with the sacking of a long-serving professional groundsman with over 27 years’ dedicated service to the club.

“The club’s action appears to demean both the profession of groundsmanship and, of course, the individual concerned, who surely deserves more respect than appears to be the case, on the facts available so far.

“Obtaining the necessary information is now an urgent priority for all of us at the IOG; to be able to provide the appropriate level of support to one of our members. “

Hare had been head groundsman at Southend United for the past 27 years.