It’s been confirmed that Maidstone United’s Gallagher Stadium continues to have one of the best pitches in world football.

Following rigorous testing, the state-of-the-art artificial turf pitch has maintained its FIFA Two Star rating – the highest possible grade.

High standards are set by the testers and they use natural grass in top condition as the benchmark. The pitch undergoes tests to check durability, weather resistance and how the ball plays.

Maidstone United co-owner Oliver Ash, who is also the spokesperson for 3G4US, said: “This is fantastic news and shows that with the right maintenance these high quality pitches can do 50-plus hours a week while maintaining impeccable standards.”

“Our 3G business model is now being copied by several clubs around the country and I hope our experience will galvanise others to follow our example and take a major step to securing their club’s financial position.

“Through the 3G4US group, we will continue to lobby for these surfaces to be accepted in the Conference and in the Football League and provide information to clubs about how to go about putting them in and getting as much as possible out of them.”

“When you see rugby embracing 3G and the huge impact it has already had on Saracens, football will have to see sense and follow suit eventually.”

Before the testing took place, Replay Maintenance, the synthetic surface specialists, carried out a thorough three-day programme of maintenance that helps extend the life of the synthetic pitch.

Maidstone United was the first football club in Britain to develop a purpose built stadium using a 3G pitch.

The surface is used by the club’s first team, their many community teams, as well as other local clubs, businesses, community groups and schools. Around 1,000 people per week play on the pitch.