In reply to Dave the Rave:
Depends on soil (sand/clay), topsoil/turf on dry crusty surface is likely fail, I'd suggest
Dig/turn-over/rotivate to depth of spade (10"-12")
Add organic matter (well rotted manure) and ideally grit or coarse sand
Rake, level and only gently firm (allow for some settling in levels)
Water the turf but not too much, but also not 'too little, too often' as encourages shallow roots.