Farming Scotland Magazine (May - June 2019)

ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW 2019 - 55 PAGE PREVIEW INSIDE Scotland’s longest established national farming & rural lifestyle magazine

Tuathanachas Alba

magazine Royal Highland Show 2019 Open Farm Sunday Cereals 2019 The Scottish Game Fair Highland Field Sports Fair Our Farm Shop Comrie Croft Farm Shop Made in Scotland Scottish Grains World Farming Dubai In Focus Scotland the Brand Topics ATV Safety Farm Data Technology Readers Competition with Hoggs of Fife Interview with Wendy Barrie Travel Guide A Taste of Nairn Exotic Farming Glorious Garlic!

Country Woman Featuring Wilma Kass

£3.50

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June 2019

Trainview Talk s Scottish Country Life Book Serial Part 3 of Calum’s Road including our regular news sections and columns

contents

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June 2019

44

40

MAIN FEATURES

IN FOCUS

28 38 43

40

Cereals Open Farm Sunday Royal Highland Show 2019 Preview 122 The Scottish Game Fair 130 Highland Field Sports Fair

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND 20

Protecting Scotland’s Food Brand

TRAVEL GUIDE 98

A Taste of Nairn

TRAINVIEW TALK 117 Diary by James Cameron

Twenty years of Perth Farmers Market

EXOTIC FARMING 120 Glorious Garlic!

COOKING WITH GAME

BEATHA AN EILEAN

23

BOOK SERIAL

Venison Liver Pate

OUR FARM SHOP 24

Comrie Croft Farm Shop

MADE IN SCOTLAND 32

Dubai

ATV Safety Technology in Farm Data

INTERVIEW 37

SWI COUNTRY WOMAN

Scottish grains

TOPICS 36 42

134 Part 3 of ‘Calum’s Road’

137 Scottish Women’s Institutes

WORLD FARMING 34

133 Life on the Islands

With Wendy Barrie

All Editorial & PR enquiries to EDITOR Athole Murray Fleming Tel. 01738 639747 E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

138 Featuring Wilma Kass

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE 140 With Linda Mellor

NEWS 6 15

Arable Potatoes

All Advertising enquiries to ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Athole Murray Fleming Tel. 01738 639747 E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

99 26 101 102 103 104 106 109 114 118 124 132 136 142 149 152 153

Food Renewable Energy Science & Technology Investing in People Beef Livestock Dairy Sheep Pigs Estate Forestry Environment Machinery Finance @Home Lifestyle

COLUMNS 6 7 14 19 21 27 100 105 108 113 115 125 129

Editor’s Bit In my view R.S.A.B.I. Crofting Farmers Market Scottish Government Hutton Institute Quality Meat Scotland The Vet NFU Scotland N.S.A. Scotland Conservation Matters Scottish Wildcat Action

ADVERTISING MANAGER Barry Tweed Tel. 01738 550157 Email: barry@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

120 136 139 150 154 154

Farming for the Climate Southern Belle The Money Man People on the Move Book Review

READER COMPETITION 141 With Hoggs of Fife

SUBSCRIPTION 151 Two easy ways to get your magazine sent to you.

Now taking card payments by phone.

NEXT ISSUE Out 3rd July featuring: Combines, Telehandlers, Tillage Equipment, Forestry, Perth Show, Turriff Show, Livestock Haulage, Renewable Energy & Livestock Equipment and much more.

ADVERTISING Please call 01738 639747 or email: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

COVER IMAGE: Skye, the face of RHS 2019.

ADVERTISING MANAGER Trevor Knights Tel. 01738 447378 Email: trevor.knights@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Fleming Email: christina@atholedesign.com COPYRIGHT This publication has been produced and published by ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD who are the copyright owners. No reproduction, copying, image scanning, storing or recording of any part of this publication without the permission of ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD. Contents disclaimer: FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is not responsible for any factual inaccuracies within press information supplied to us. Any concerns regarding such matters should be directed to the supplier of the materials.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is designed, produced and published by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd., Tolastadh, 18 Corsie Drive, Kinnoull, Perth, Scotland PH2 7BU. Tel. 01738 639747 est 1994

ISSN: 2041–918X

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arable editor's bit The biggest issue!

Welcome to our 2019 Royal Highland Show Preview edition and the biggest issue that we have ever published.

Once again, summer approaches and we are all looking forward to the warm days ahead, the farming shows, the game fairs and the escape from the madness of Brexit whenever we can.

Some chance! – I hear you cry.

Anyway, I for one cannot wait to enjoy the fresh air of the Scottish Game Fair and later in August, the Moy Fair, where we will have a stand for the very first time, promoting our two magazine titles – Shooting Scotland and of course, Farming Scotland.

So a busy summer awaits for us, and I suspect many a farmer too!...and some politicians (sorry!).

I have also been very pleased with the feedback from having Farming Scotland available in all of Scotland’s Livestock markets, as well as in North England and Northern Ireland. Promoting Scottish farming and our Scottish produce is becoming more important to me and the magazine, so I hope you all enjoy this edition in particular.

And of course, I would be delighted to get ideas for great Scottish producers to feature going forward.

So cheers for now, enjoy the warming weather and we’ll see you again in July.

Slàinte, Athole.

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De-stress barley for better Ramularia resilience, Scottish advisor says Take steps to reduce stress in winter and spring barley crops to improve resilience to Ramularia infection, urges Alistair Gordon, regional technical manager in Scotland for leading agronomy firm ProCam. Although physiological stress that produces superficial brown spots on upper leaf surfaces of barley can cause some yield loss, he says the bigger issue is it can trigger Ramularia flare ups in infected plants.

And with no AHDB variety resistance ratings available for Ramularia, knowing how to reduce stress could become particularly relevant when chlorothalonil is no longer available in future, he believes.

“Ramularia appears with a vengeance in crops under stress,” explains Mr Gordon.

“You can’t do anything about weather-related stress factors, such as bright, hot days and cold nights that exacerbate the problem. But you can ease stress from other sources.

“As well as factors such as correcting soil pH to reduce stress, and avoiding large

tank mixtures with excessive amounts of adjuvants, make sure barley isn’t held back through limited availability of manganese, copper or zinc.

These are key trace elements for cereals.

“Improved Ramularia resilience was clearly visible last season in spring barley crops where nutrition was used to create healthier canopies.

This applied whether the nutrition was from farmyard manure or foliar sprays.”

With many farmers opting to plant stubble turnips or kale last autumn after the fodder shortage of the dry summer, Mr Gordon says sheep grazing on these will have naturally boosted soil fertility through manure.

However, ProCam has also been evaluating micronutrient and biostimulant treatments in spring barley, he says, and found significant improvements in both root and shoot growth.

ScotGrass returns to Dumfries ScotGrass is set to return to Crichton Royal Farm at Dumfries in 2019 by the kind permission of the SRUC. The event, which takes place on Wednesday 15th

May 2019, gives visitors an opportunity to see the latest grassland machinery in action on field scale plots at a commercial dairy farm.

ScotGrass is once again kindly sponsored by Volac and Secure Covers.

The triennial event, which is organised by the AEA on behalf of industry exhibitors, attracts livestock farmers and grassland contractors from throughout the UK and is a popular showcase for major equipment manufacturers.

The event, attracts livestock farmers and grassland contractors from throughout the UK. Held on a commercial diary farm the working event is also a popular showcase for major equipment manufacturers with both working and static stand opportunities available.

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In my view

arable Get your feet in the field

By John Cameron Balbuthie, Kilconquhar, Fife

Brexit and the silence on the lamb?

Get your feet in the field to accurately assess grass health is the message from the grass experts at Barenbrug this spring.

Taking time out to properly monitor the UK’s biggest crop is key to productivity and profitability in any livestock enterprise. With nearly 19 million acres of temporary and permanent grass which is estimated to be yielding less than half of its potential, huge gains could be made in the livestock sector by taking the time to treat grass as a crop. Reseeding can be expensive, especially if grassland has been neglected for a long time however there is potential of return on investment for up to ten times the cost within the first year.

The Barenbrug Good Grass Guide is a grass condition

scoring management tool to help you identify the poorest performing grass fields and then develop a plan for improvement.

The simple scoring system runs from 1, requiring reseeding to 5, highly productive.

Barenbrug UK’s field support team are on hand to advise on the best mixtures and course of action too. Operating in the UK for almost 35 years, Barenbrug grow over 200ha of seed crops in the UK as well as marketing varieties from the grass breeding programme in Northern Ireland.

Supporting UK agriculture is one of their key values. Reseeding with quality, recommended varieties could yield up to 17t DM/ha or 133,000 megajoules of energy. That energy is capable of producing over 25000litres of milk or 2 tonnes of beef or lamb.

Make the most of season’s wheat potential, growers urged Keep winter wheat potential on track this season to make the most of decent grain prices and crop growth, says agronomy firm ProCam. As crops reach important input timings, latest figures from ProCam 4Cast, the company’s annual big data analysis of the impact of agronomy on crop output, revealed that even in

the low disease pressure season of 2018, fields receiving greater fungicide investment still achieved higher yields.

This mirrors the long-term trend seen over the previous six seasons, Mike Thornton, the company’s head of crop production, explains.

“Certainly growers shouldn’t be overspending on inputs,”

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I had hoped that by the time it came to pen this article it would not be necessary to yet again mention Brexit. What a forlorn hope!

It now appears likely that we will have to wait another six months before we in farming know where our future lies. In other words the present uncertainty will continue. It was interesting to note that when it became known that we were not leaving without a deal on 12th April both prime cattle and prime lamb prices visibly firmed.

Now I would accept that scarcity of numbers and the proximity to Easter could have played a part in this but on speaking to the trade it was also because the imminent threat of a tariff on our exports had been lifted. Let’s hope that the next six months will allow a finality to this whole Brexit issue because the industry simply cannot continue to operate in a vacuum with the resultant loss of confidence and stability.

To make matters worse it appears that had we been forced to accept a ‘no deal’ with the EU much of the protection the industry receives from EU legislation would also disappear and – so far – we have received no confirmation from the UK Government that they would replace this legislation in a UK form. No

guarantee yet either how the financial contribution from the CAP will be replaced. It is no wonder that within the industry there is a lack of confidence for the future.

To turn for a moment to another recent topic anything to get away from Brexit! I read with some concern of a farmer in Argyllshire who recently discovered the body of a Golden Eagle apparently killed by a Sea Eagle which the farmer had earlier seen in confrontation with each other.

A dead lamb was also discovered close by. A post mortem was carried out on the dead Golden Eagle and it was confirmed that the injuries were consistent with wounds inflicted by the talons of another eagle. The point which caught my attention however was a comment by an SNH spokesperson who said ‘the two species do interact and are capable of killing each other – this is natural behaviour’! I had to wonder however that if the dead eagle had not been subject to a post mortem – how much controversy and correspondence would there have been regarding the bird’s demise?

Incidentally, there was no mention of a post mortem for the dead lamb – or was this also natural behaviour?!

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arable stresses Mr Thornton. “But with feed wheat prices recently quoted at around £140/t from harvest 2019, there is decent margin potential in this year’s winter wheat, particularly as the mild winter didn’t hold back crop growth.

“In 2018, increasing from three to four fungicide applications for farms on ProCam 4Cast resulted in an average winter wheat yield increase of 0.32 t/ha – from 8.59 to 8.91 t/ha. For grain at £140/t, that equates to an additional £45/ha income from an extra fungicide investment of £23/ha.

“As always, the secret to getting the best return on investment from inputs will be to tailor them to the needs of individual fields. What is crucial is to not let inputs drop excessively below the economic optimum.

“This is especially important at the flag leaf-protecting fungicide timing of T2 in May, but also potentially at the T3

fungicide timing on the ear.”

In particular, Mr Thornton says growers mustn’t be lulled into a false sense of security by the low disease pressures of last season.

Future disease pressures are always unknown at the time of spraying, he says, and with the ability to cure our main disease of Septoria tritici now largely lost, excess trimming of T2 fungicides could result in unrecoverable yield loss if disease is allowed to get out of hand.

“Something to remember is that SDHI and strobilurin fungicides don’t just provide activity against various diseases.

Field observations show they also provide physiological benefits – such as improved drought tolerance and reduced crop stress. This gives a level of reassurance in extremes of weather.

“Tank-mixing a micronutrient + biostimulant treatment with

fungicides is another way of enhancing crop health.

Independent trials plots we commissioned in the droughted conditions last season showed an average yield boost of an extra 1.7 t/ha from a micronutrient +

biostimulant programme on top of the yield from a full fungicide programme.

“The average yield boost the previous season was lower, at 0.54 t/ha, but was also very worthwhile,” Mr Thornton concludes.

New fertiliser is batterypowered ZM-Grow, a new award-winning multi-nutrient fertiliser, is to be launched in the UK and Ireland during April 2019, providing zinc and manganese, together with potassium and sulphur, in liquid form. Uniquely, the zinc and manganese content is extracted from used alkaline batteries through a special process developed by Finnish manufacturers Tracegrow. It is thought to be the only process that can produce zinc and manganese from this source to the necessary purity for fertilisers.

8

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“The result is a highly flexible liquid fertiliser containing key nutrients for a wide variety of crops,” says David Harrod, owner of UK importers Badger Crop Nutrition, “and because of its liquid form and foliar application it can be a handy tank-mix partner for products like pyraclostrobin fungicide (Comet), florasulam/ fluroxypyr (Starane XL) herbicide or various growth regulators, to name a few.”

While zinc deficiency is seen in 10-15% of UK field crops,

arable often on sandy soils with both a high pH and phosphate status, manganese is the most common micronutrient deficiency. Sugar beet, cereals - in particular barley - and peas are all prone, especially on high pH soils. Tracegrow recommends testing soils or crop leaves before deciding on timing and concentration levels.

ZM-Grow is diluted from a concentrate, and normally applied between Feb - June.

Depending on crop type and requirements, and agronomists’ recommendations, 2-3 litres of concentrate are recommended per hectare, delivering 120-180g of zinc per ha and 124-186g of manganese, as well as 156-234g of sulphur.

Trials using 3 litres/ha in Västarkvarn, Finland in 2017 produced a 350kg/ha increase in wheat yield and 900kg/ha in barley from a single application.

Next Issue FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE July 2019

Feed efficient cows powering Ellinglund Organic Farm in Denmark Gert Glob Lassen took over Ellinglund Økologi (organic) farm in Silkeborg, Denmark after his father in 2006. Gert and his wife Anne are passionate organic milk producers and have become a reference in Europe for efficiency and success with the three-way crossbreeding system, ProCROSS. Gert’s father switched from pure Holstein to ProCROSS cows in 2002. By that time, they were facing many challenges with health issues on their animals. The veterinary expenses increased by the many cases of mastitis and reduced fertility. Lack of longevity was also a part of the difficulties in the farm.

After 17 years of the change in the breeding strategy, Gert and 10

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Ann are keen on identifying the areas where they can save costs and improve the performance of the dairy. The feed to the cows is among the most important areas they keep focus on.

“The feed for cows is the biggest expense you have on the farm. We are always looking for saving. If you can save just one percentage every day; that is a lot of money”, Gert says. “We know our cows do their job, they keep healthy and are productive, they eat and produce at its best,” he remarks.

Having a healthy, organic ProCROSS herd of 340 cows with average production 10,389 kg ECM (Energy Corrected Milk), “efficiency” is not just a word.

arable “The less the cost to get the milk, the more competitive you can be,” he states.

Last summer, The University of Minnesota, who has led several research projects regarding the crossbreeding system ProCROSS, presented the results of a study about feed efficiency and stated that ProCROSS cows are inherently able to convert feed more efficiently into milk solids compared to pure Holstein cows.

Dairy farmers as Gert Glob Lassen have known these results from the everyday practice: ProCROSS cows are high performers in feed efficiency.

The trial also demonstrated that ProCROSS cows carried significantly more body condition but were not different from the Holstein cows for body weight; “The smaller frame sizes of the ProCROSS cows combined with increased body condition enhances fertility and health which are advantages of ProCROSS cows over Holstein”,

according to prof. Les Hansen, who was leading the studies at the U. of Minnesota in the United States.

Gert Lassen explains that the body condition is also a “plus”

in his organic herd: “Body condition means more muscles not skinny cows - that also keeps them healthy, and they will be better paid when we sell them for slaughter”, he explains.

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With an annual average of 4.06% fat and 3.42% protein, Ellinglund is one of the best organic crossbreeding herds with high performance and one of the most prestigious herds in Denmark.

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arable YARA transforms smartphones into nitrogen sensors

Yara International has launched YaraIrix, a tool for precision farming that allows farmers to measure crop nitrogen requirements using their smartphones. Nitrogen analysis has traditionally required expensive equipment, restricting farmers’ access to the technology. With YaraIrix, Norway-based Yara aims to make

precision farming accessible to all farmers through a clip that turns smartphones into high-tech Nitrogen sensors.

The YaraIrix system includes a free-to-download-app (for Android & iOS), which uses camera photos to determine the nitrogen demand of different crops in early growth stages. For the second to fourth dressing, the app is supplemented by two hardware options (a smartphone clip and a Bluetooth N-Tester) that enable precise measurement in later growth stages.

“We know well that every field is special. By enabling farmers to simply use their smartphone for precision agriculture, YaraIrix is a gamechanger that can ultimately provide millions of farmers with insights previously unavailable about their field. We are now taking the first steps with the launch of YaraIrix across Europe.

With access to precise data about the nutritional needs of crops, we can produce more food and reduce the environmental impact of farming at the same time,” said Stefan Fürnsinn, SVP Digital Farming, Yara.

Tong leave no stone unturned with new Jacuzzi Pre-Soak tank with integrated destoner Following the company’s recent launch of its next generation Barrel Washer, Tong Engineering is announcing the introduction of a new and uniquely designed jacuzzi pre-soak tank with integrated destoner, that now brings users three invaluable pre-washing processes in one advanced machine.

Built to combine destoning, pre-soak and floating debris removal within the machine’s 12

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heavy duty water-filled tank, the new system has been designed to provide a gentle way to effectively pre-clean heavily soiled crop prior to washing.

“We have been manufacturing jacuzzi pre-soak tanks for exceptionally gentle reception and pre-cleaning of crop at high throughputs, for many years,” explains Edward Tong, Managing Director at Tong Engineering.

“What makes our new pre-clean

arable

system different, is that it features an integrated destoning facility at the infeed end of the tank, as well as a built-in floating debris remover at the outfeed. By bringing these processes together in one tank, growers and processors not only achieve a more complete pre-clean system for enhanced washing results, but it also allows for reduced water consumption, combined water treatment and improved energy efficiency of the whole process,” says Edward.

Suitable for use on a wide range of root crops, including carrots, parsnips, swedes and potatoes, the new pre-soak tank features Tong’s proven integrated destoner system which is popularly fitted at the infeed of Tong barrel washers.

As crop is gently received into the new system’s water-filled tank, it enters the integral destoner. An impellor at the base of the destoner creates an upward pressure on

crop, ensuring the vegetables float across the tank and into the jacuzzi pre-soak system. Meanwhile, any stones present within the crop drop to the bottom of the destoner, where a heavy-duty web elevator removes them up and out of the tank.

The high-performance jacuzzi pre-soak system gently receives crop from the destoner, where a powerful air-injection system creates a jacuzzi effect within the pre-soak tank to promote gentle crop agitation which helps to loosen heavy soil and debris from crop. Floating debris sinks to the bottom of the pre-soak tank where it is easily removed from the tank via an auger and pneumatic dump valve system. These features help to prolong the life and freshness of the water by frequently removing sediment out of the tank, reducing the frequency of water replacement within the tank.

Early trials results show promise for hybrid wheats Testing hybrid wheats under a wide range of UK growing conditions is the aim of nationwide trials established by crop protection specialists Hutchinsons.

Hybrid wheats offer yield and grain-quality improvements over conventional wheat in terms of consistency and stability, and the opportunity to add in traits such as heat and drought tolerance or winter hardiness, says Stewart MacIntyre, northern seed manager.

“These will provide UK growers the opportunity to maximise wheat production on fields that are limited in their yield potential due to perhaps 14

later drilling date, the rotational position of the crop or just simply from site limitations – and is timely when many growers are looking closer than ever at their costs of production.”

“There is no doubt that in the future hybrid wheats will play a part in helping growers maximise their output whilst aligning with integrated crop management.”

“However it’s important to understand how these potential benefits manifest over the growing season in comparison to conventional varieties - and the best ways of managing them under UK growing conditions,” he adds.

RSABI We Need Your Support

By Paul Tinson

RSABI has seen a rise in

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as, but not limited to,

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new people approaching

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the charity every month.

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In

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from

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clients who are experiencing

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Emotional available

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We are your charity. is

To continue to support

our

those in our industry in

helpline, case officers and

times of need and we need

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your help.

mental health first aid trained.

you

We listen, keep people safe

a supporter of RSABI, by

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potatoes Remember to follow nematicide best practice this spring Potato growers are being reminded to follow the best practice granular nematicide use protocol this spring to ensure products are used safely and effectively.

Nick Winmill, potato technical manager at Agrii and member of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP), urges growers to visit the NSP website to brush up their knowledge on best practice

application of granular nematicides before planting.

“There are a number of key steps which growers must follow to ensure they’re protecting the operator, environment and consumer,” he says.

These include ensuring your operator has the right qualifications and PPE, machinery is calibrated and fitted with a device which allows granule shut off, spillages

are dealt with properly and nematicides are applied and incorporated in a single pass.

The full protocol can be found by visiting the NSP website: nspstewardship.co.uk/

Tong grading line sows seeds for a productive future at B&C Farming Norfolk-based contract farmer and potato grower B&C Farming purchased a bespoke potato grading line from Peal Engineering 29 years ago.

With advances in equipment automation and efficiency offering some significant savings in labour and costs, when the time came for B&C Farming to upgrade their existing line, managing director Tony Bambridge approached Tong Engineering to design a custombuilt seed potato grading facility with all the company’s current and future requirements in mind.

B&C Farming, based in Marsham, Norfolk, work with

Greenvale AP and McCain to supply seed potatoes direct to growers. Operating a ‘just in time’ delivery system using the companies own lorries, B&C Farming supply seed at planting.

A new grading facility would ensure they can continue to produce more, higher-quality seed potatoes in line with ongoing contract demands.

“Specifying a new grading line is a very individual process,” explains Tony. “It takes time to determine all the processes you want to achieve from the new grading line, whilst understanding all the advanced handling capabilities on offer

with the latest equipment on the market. That’s why we needed to work with a manufacturer who understood our requirements fully, to make adjustments where necessary to suit our exact needs. Both myself, my daughter Sophie and a number of others from the farming team worked closely with Tong to ensure the new grading system would perform just as we imagined.”

With a reduction in labour costs a key objective in the specification of the new line, a Tong side-eject box tipper feeds crop onto the line. Potatoes that are lifted into the boxes at harvest before being graded in

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January and February. “It’s a fine line between keeping the forklift drivers busy, and them being too rushed; risking accidents or causing the line to stop and wait for crop,” explains Tony.

“The side-eject box tipper not only reduces forklift movement, allowing us to cut the number of forklifts required for grading, but it also ensures a continuous flow of crop onto the grading line.”

Labour requirements at the crop cleaning and grading section of the line have also been taken into consideration.

“Taking care of the complete grading system from start to finish, Tong integrated the Tomra

15

potatoes

FPS optical sorter into the line for automatic detection of stones and clod in the unwashed crop.

With this removal of debris now being performed automatically, inspection staff can now focus on grading for quality of the potatoes, with size-grading took care of by Tong’s EasyGrade screen grading modules,” says Tony. “What’s more, inspection staff are now in a fully-insulated, heated and sound-proofed cabin, allowing for much more pleasant inspection conditions.”

The new grading line at B&C Farming also features Tong’s industry-leading box filler the Midi EasyFill, which gently transfers graded and sorted crop back into boxes for storage. In addition, a series of Tong vertical lowerator box fillers are used for high capacity yet gentle box filling. “When crop comes out of store and is ready for delivery to customers in March, Tong’s UniFill big bag filler comes into

its own as crop is tipped onto a second line where it passes through final inspection and is gently filled into 1 or 1.25 ton bags,” explains Tony.

Edward Tong, Managing Director at Tong Engineering comments; “It has been a real pleasure working closely with the team at B&C Farming to design and manufacture a grading line that fits their brief in terms of grading requirements, but also considers the layout requirements for efficient operation in their recently built shed. Our project management team worked with Tony and his team throughout the install to get everything running smoothly in time for their grading season at the beginning of 2019.”

“We’ve almost doubled the throughput of our grading facility whilst cutting out a forklift operator, and we’re maintaining if not improving quality,” added Tony. “We are vei0ry pleased with the new system.”

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE Subscription page 151 16

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potatoes New sector board members join AHDB Potatoes This month saw three new additions to the AHDB Potatoes board: Aberdeenshire-based grower Jim Cargill; Somersetbased grower Chris Wilson; and Alison Levett, who joined as an independent board member.

The three new sector board members all took up their positons as of 1 April. Appointments are for three years.

Second generation farmer, Jim Cargill is based at Coldstream Farm, where he produces seed potatoes, cereals and daffodil bulbs. As well as growing potato varieties Cara, Atlantic and Burren for export, he also supplies the domestic market with Gemson and Markies. Jim markets his seed through Grampian Growers, where he has also been a longstanding member of their board.

Currently at the helm of AHDB’s Strategic Potato Farm South West, Chris Wilson runs a

1,000 hectare estate at Dillington Farm, Somerset. A graduate of the University of Oxford, Chris has been an estate manager at Dillington for most of his career, having started out as farm manager in West Sussex. He holds a number of board and committee roles, including: chairman of the Branston Potato Producer Group and is a member of the Tesco Sustainable Farming Group potato panel.

Alison Levett has built up an impressive career in the food and drink industry, including 17 years experience in leadership positions for both corporate and private equity-backed firms, such as: UK and Ireland MD for Campbell’s Grocery Products and UK and Ireland MD for Allied Domecq.

Currently Alison is building a portfolio of board and advisory roles including Non Executive Director at Roys of Wroxham.

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potatoes Having relocated to Somerset, she has recently taken on a house renovation project with 50 acres of grazing land.

The new board members replace those who reached the end of their tenure on 31 March.

Those departing this year include: Herefordshire grower Bill Quan; Alistair Redpath, Chief Executive of Cygnet Potato Breeders Ltd, and Cornwall-based grower Reuben Collins.

The AHDB Potatoes Board has 11 members, including Chair Sophie Churchill. As well as setting the strategy for Potatoes it also approves annual budgets and activity plans.

The AHDB sector boards are predominantly made up of farmers, growers & processors, providing an important level of direct accountability for AHDB. Sector boards typically have between 10 and 14 members, one or two of which will be non-levy payer independent members bringing additional expertise in areas such as marketing or supply chain.

AHDB Board Chair Sophie Churchill said: “I’m delighted to welcome our three new members to the AHDB Potatoes sector board. They bring a wealth of experience at a crucial time in British agriculture and I’m looking forward to working with each of them in the coming years.

“I also want to pay tribute to our departing members, each of whom provided invaluable insight and commitment over the three years they were part of the board. I wish them all well in the future”.

Farm Electronics investing in their own future

Farm Electronics Management Team Left to Right- Alex Gadsby, Joe Sambridge, Adam Fryer

Since the 1960’s Farm Electronics has been at the forefront of Crop Storage Engineering, offering high quality, simple, efficient ambient and refrigerated crop storage ventilation systems throughout the UK. In 2016 the Dutch based company Tolsma-Grisnich purchased the company and since then Farm Electronics lead by Managing Director Tim Dudfield

and Production Director Paul Jackson, have invested in growing the business to ensure a seamless changeover to a new management team new members of staff.

As many customers will know, Tim and Paul have been at the heart of Farm Electronics for over 30 years and both Directors are mentoring the new members of the team to ensure the

Your produce will stay fresher for longer with our wide range of energy efficient storage solutions

BRADLEY REFRIGERATION LTD 929 Abbeydale Road Sheffield S7 2QD Tel: SHEFFIELD 0114 553 7780 Email: agriculture@bradley-refrigeration.com www.bradley-refrigeration.com

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continuity of the business when they retire at the end of the year.

To ensure provisions are in place to enable Farm Electronics to continue to manufacture the reliable, trusted and wellengineered products that our customers value the appointment of a new management team consisting of Joe Sambridge, Alex Gadsby and Adam Fryer has been made.

potatoes Joe will be mentored by Paul Jackson and be responsible for the complete purchasing, manufacturing, and factory processes. Alex and Adam will be mentored by Tim Dudfield in the complete field of Crop Storage design including the producing of quotes, technical information and drawings to customers.

The Team who together have spent over 25 years in the agricultural engineering sector shows a bright outlook for the future of Farm Electronics.

Joe has a complete knowledge of production processes and manufacturing competencies as well as being well versed in health and safety and HR tasks. After completing engineering degrees at Sheffield Hallam and Harper Adams University respectively, Alex and Adam have worked in agricultural design engineering roles collectively for over 10 years being involved with many major design projects as well

as gaining a wide customer and supplier rapport.

Tim Dudfield said, “I’m delighted that having purchased Farm Electronics the Tolsma Grisnich Group have invested so much into the new management structure as well as additional staff on the shop floor. I feel I will be able to retire at the end of the year with some satisfaction knowing that with the backing from the parent company in Holland, Farm Electronics will continue to grow and remain a major supplier of Crop Storage Equipment in the UK” We value our staff and customers greatly and this has been the driver of ensuring the continuity of the company in the upcoming years. We will continue to manufacture the same good quality English products with the added benefit of Dutch technological advances, always ensuring the best quality to our customers.

Bees buzz back in growers green headlands Potato and vegetable growers are providing a hugely valuable habitat resource for some increasing populations of solitary bees in the UK, with a novel Green Headland Mix planted around fields of growing crop.

Monitoring of Green Headlands around highly productive fields in East Anglia last year has identified huge insect numbers and a vast array of biodiversity.

The Green Headland initiative was instigated by Syngenta and ASDA, in association with grower supply group, IPL, and specialist seed suppliers, Kings.

Independent ecologist, Paul Lee, assessed over 36,000 invertebrates, collected from sweep netting on six farms on just two occasions over the summer 2018. Some Green Headland margins contained up to 55 different species.

Identifying 199 different insect species overall, it was the beetles and bugs that dominated the mixtures, he reported. “But a number of insect groups that had suffered in successive cool wet summers, did particularly well in the warm dry conditions, particularly the flies and bee species.”

crofting The protection of croft land

By Patrick Krause, Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation There have recently been two related articles in the media about croft land. The first was lamenting the plight of young people trying to get into crofting thwarted by high prices and the fact that banks will not offer mortgages on croft land due to the ‘burden’ of crofting being regulated. This is fact and using croft land as security on lending is being discussed with banks under the current law reforms.

However, there is more to it. The inflated market is exacerbated by the fact that crofts are often situated in areas of outstanding natural beauty. People come to the ‘market’ with the desire to own a holiday or retirement house in this beautiful scenery, armed with the proceeds of a house-sale in a more prosperous area.

These people have the purchasing power to push croft prices up and out of reach of young folk.

In some cases, buyers purchase crofts with no intention of putting them to purposeful use, a stipulation of crofting regulation; the croft is deemed simply a house and garden site.

Crofting is regulated but the regulator, the Crofting Commission, is so underresourced it cannot perform its most basic regulatory functions.

The second article covered the problem of local authority councillors fuelling croft prices by giving planning consent for developments on croft in-bye, against the recommendation of the Crofting Commission, a statutory consultee. If the regulator is recommending declining development consent on this land, why are the councillors even discussing it? Given the nature of crofts, there is usually plenty of alternative land on which houses can be built, yet the councillors are allowing the selling off of land capable of producing food, land we may well be needing every scrap of soon.

We want a regulated system for the protection of croft land and for this we must resource the regulator.

This would go a long way to solving the ‘access to land’ problems and would protect this precious and finite resource.

www.crofting.org www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Scotland’s First Farmers’ Market Celebrates 20th Anniversary Perth Farmers’ Market – which was the first farmers’ market to be established in Scotland – is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Perthshire livestock farmer Jim Fairlie was behind the trailblazing development of Perth Farmers’ Market. After getting the Perth market up and running, he travelled around Scotland and supported other producers interested in establishing similar initiatives around the country.

Mr Fairlie, who now runs his own retail business selling Scotch Beef PGI and Scotch Lamb PGI as well as an outdoor event catering business, The Kitchen Farmer, was among the very first producers who gathered back in April 1999 to set up the first farmers’ market 12 stalls in King Edward Street in Perth City Centre.

Over the years the market has grown from strength to strength

and two decades on, there are now around 50 stalls showcasing quality local produce on the first Saturday of every month in Perth’s city centre.

Jim Fairlie said his early idea was to offer an opportunity for farmers to sell direct to consumers as an alternative to selling only through the major multiple retailers.

“The inspiration came on a visit to France,” said Mr Fairlie.

“Food is a huge part of French culture and it was clear that farmers’ markets were thriving there as a result of French consumers’ desire for top quality local food that they know and trust.”

What he had seen in France inspired Mr Fairlie to set up Perth Farmers’ Market with the aim of creating a market platform allowing Scottish farmers to rekindle that important direct

relationship with consumers which he felt had been missing for more than fifty years.

“Farmers’ markets offer a two-way benefit – producers can meet and get a valuable understanding of what their consumers want and forge a

close relationship with them, and consumers can get to know and trust the people who produce the food they buy.”

For more information about Perth Farmers’ Market visit www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk

Scottish Birchwater producer commences three-week ‘tapping’ season Over the last few years, Birchwater has seen a significant rise in popularity in the UK and across the Northern Hemisphere.

Once a widespread tradition in the Scottish Highlands, the practice of tapping Birch trees and using the sap as a pure and revitalising drink had long been forgotten but its recent revival has led to Birchwater firmly establishing itself in the UK market as a delicious, nutrient-rich, detoxifying drink that cleanses the liver, soothes arthritic pain, rejuvenates skin and balances cholesterol.

However, it can only be extracted or ‘tapped’ from Birch trees during one very 20

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short three-week period in March.

For Perthshire-based company Birken Tree – the first and only home-grown producer of commercial Birchwater in the UK – that brief but vital period is underway.

Co-founders of Birken Tree are husband and wife team Rob and Gabrielle, whose combination of forester and healer led them on a journey to renew the ancient Scottish Highland tradition of Birch tree tapping for its health potential. Back in those days, Birchwater was used to replenish newborn babies and even cattle with much needed nutrients and minerals after a rough winter.

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Fife family farm launches craft malt business

magazine Supporting

FARMERS MARKETS IN SCOTLAND Aberdeen Country Fair www.aberdeencountryfair. co.uk Alford Farmers’ Market www.spanglefish.com/ alfordfarmersmarket Argyll Country Markets katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Ayrshire Farmers’ Market www.ayrshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Balerno Farmers’ Market www.balernovt.org.uk Blairgowrie Community Market www.strathmoreglens.org Cairndow and Loch Fyne Farmers’ Market katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Campbeltown Farmers’ Market katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Clarkston Farmers’ Market enquiry@ lanarkshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Cupar Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Dundee Farmers’ Market lorna.mckenzie@dundeecity. gov.uk

A fifth-generation working family farm in Fife has launched a craft malting business after securing a £500,000 funding package from HSBC UK. Crafty Maltsters, which operates from A. Milne and Sons Farm on the outskirts of Auchtermuchty, has used the funding to purchase the equipment needed to produce local craft malt for Scotland’s brewers and distillers.

The funding, which includes a new loan and overdraft facility, has also enabled the family to build a new 3,000 sq. ft. on-site shed for additional grain storage and processing.

Alison Milne, a former commercial director at NFU Scotland, and her husband Daniel took over management of A. Milne & Sons Farm from Daniel’s parents in 2014 and

immediately looked for ways to diversify and add value to their existing arable and livestock enterprise.

Alison Milne, Owner, Crafty Maltsters, said: “After studying the malting supply chain we spotted a gap in the market for small-scale malting providers that can guarantee quality, locally-sourced malt for brewers and distillers across Scotland.

“We want to help put smallscale malting at the forefront of ingredient supply chain and tell the story of Scotland’s grainto-glass journey, as well as the value that malt brings to beers and spirits. Working with HSBC UK has been of huge benefit to us and we value the bank as a real partner in the business, challenging and working with us to make our business model stronger.”

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Dunfermline Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Edinburgh Farmers’ Market www.edinburghfarmersmarket. com Edinburgh - Stockbridge Farmers’ Market www.stockbridgemarket.com Falkirk Farmers’ Market howard.wilkinson2@btinternet. com Fencebay Farmers’ Market fencebay@aol.co.uk Forfar Farmers’ Market www.angusfarmersmarket. co.uk Glasgow Farmers’ Market Mansfield Park www.citymarketsglasgow. co.uk Glasgow Farmers’ Market Queen’s Park www.citymarketsglasgow. co.uk

Greenock Farmers’ Market matthewmcs2000@aol.com Haddington Farmers’ Market pjdesign@dunbar.org.uk Hamilton Farmers’ Market www. lanarkshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Hawick Farmers’ Market eg.sangster@btinternet.com Inverurie Farmers’ Market e: ronreid2@aol.com Kelso Farmers’ Market www.kelso.bordernet.co.uk Kirkcaldy Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Linlithgow Farmers’ Market forumevents@yahoo.co.uk Loch Lomond Shores Farmers’ Market forumevents@yahoo.co.uk Lochwinnoch Farmers’ Market david.oneill@clydemuirshiel. co.uk Lockerbie Farmers’ Market www.lockerbiefarmersmarket. co.uk Milngavie Farmers’ Market matthewmcs2000@aol.com Montrose Farmers’ Market www.angusfarmersmarket.co. uk Oban And Lorn Markets admin@lorn.org Overton Farm Farmers’ Market www. lanarkshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Paisley Farmers’ Market enquiries@ayrshiremeats.co.uk Peebles Farmers’ Market johnbolton1@btconnect.com Perth Farmers’ Market www.perthfarmersmarket. co.uk Portpatrick Farmers’ Market foodstore@auchenree.co.uk St Andrews Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Stirling Farmers’ Market StirlingFM@aol.com.

Stornoway Farmers’ Market kennylhhp@btopenworld.com

For your market to be listed mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Thank Goodness for Graham’s!

Graham’s The Family Dairy has introduced its new Goodness Ice Cream range. A deliciously indulgent high protein ice cream, lower in sugar, as well as a good source of fibre – all from only 310 calories per tub!

Made with award-winning Scottish milk and cream from over 100 farming partners, Graham’s latest ice-cream range has over 20g of protein in each tub and only a quarter of the calories than other ice creams – with absolutely no compromise on taste.

Graham’s Goodness Ice Cream is now rolling out across UK Lidl stores in two wonderful mouth-watering flavours; White Chocolate with Raspberry Ripple and Salted Caramel. The range has a variety of other delicious flavours including, Espresso Caramel, Mint Choc Chip and Chocolate Dulce de Leche.

Maintain a balanced and healthy daily lifestyle with this rich and tremendously tasty treat.

Every spoonful of Graham’s Dairy Goodness ice cream will now be a guilt free pleasure.

Robert Graham, Managing Director of Graham’s the Family Dairy, said: “Our Goodness range of ice cream is a perfect

compliment to all our latest high protein dairy products due to their natural, fresh ingredients created by a Scottish family business. By

choosing our Goodness Ice Cream, you are choosing a tasty, healthier ice cream that is bursting with flavour and nutritional benefits”.

ALDI launches native cattle breed burger range with Scotbeef As part of celebrating 25 years in Scotland, ALDI has launched a series of six Native Cattle Breed Scotch Burgers as part of its Fresh Meat Specialbuy calendar in partnership with Scotbeef.

The new range of quality assured Scotch burgers will champion Scotland’s most valued native breeds including the Galloway, Belted Galloway, Luing and Highland cattle. The range also includes Scotland-reared Hereford and Shorthorn breeds.

The investment, which extends the retailer’s long-term partnership with Scotbeef, will 22

give customers the opportunity to purchase this exclusive range of Specialbuy Native Breed burgers between March and August 2019.

The announcement follows NFU Scotland’s ‘shelf-watch’ supermarket survey, which revealed that ALDI was the strongest supporter of Scottish Beef with 96 per cent of beef stocked being Scotch Beef PGI certified. The deal is an example of the retailer’s wider commitment to supporting Scottish farmers and sourcing high quality local produce.

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, ALDI Scotland, said: “We’re committed to supporting the Scotch Beef industry and working collaboratively with our suppliers to encourage sustainable farming. This new partnership with Scotbeef allows us to bring some of the very best quality Scotch beef products to our shelves, ensuring that ALDI continues to lead the way with local sourcing.”

Nick Watkin, National Account Manager, Scotbeef, said: “We’re proud to expand our successful partnership with ALDI

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and meet the consumer demand for premium quality Scotch beef.

ALDI’s Native Breeds product range is a perfect example of the retailer’s commitment to the long-term future of the Scotch Beef industry.”

cooking with GAME

Venison Liver Pâté

By Wendy Barrie

Recipe & photography © Wendy Barrie

As summer is approaching it is fun to think of picnics and al fresco eating so a venison pâté is perfect whether you are spreading out a feast on a gingham cloth or perched on a boulder halfway up a mountain! Whatever your preference, enjoy a taste of summer.

Ingredients: 220g Venison livers, cut in slices 50g butter Drizzle of Summer Harvest rapeseed oil 1tbsp Benromach Single Malt Whisky Small sprigs of rosemary Light pinch of Isle of Skye Salt and freshly milled pepper 125mls double cream Extra butter for sealing dish

Method: s 4RIM LIVERS AND CUT UP IN EVENLY SIZED CHUNKS s -ELT BUTTER WITH A DRIZZLE OF RAPESEED OIL n THIS ALLOWS you to cook at a higher temperature without the butter burning. Once foaming, toss in venison with sprigs of rosemary and season. s #OOK QUICKLY OVER A MEDIUM HIGH HEAT FOR A FEW minutes on each side until thoroughly sealed and medium done. Cut through a piece to check - cooking time depends on the thickness of the meat. s $EGLAZE PAN WITH WHISKY AND CREAM BY SWIRLING AROUND in pan with the livers. Reduce cream a little to intensify flavour and give thicker consistency. s 2EMOVE THE ROSEMARY STALKS AND PLACE THE CONTENTS OF THE PAN IN A JUG OR LIQUIDIZER "LEND THE MIX WITH BLITZ WAND OR IN A processor until fairly smooth – according to preference. s 4ASTE AND ADJUST SEASONING 0OUR INTO DISH OR INDIVIDUAL DISHES )T WILL SEEM A LITTLE SLOPPY BUT IT SETS AS IT CHILLS s 3ET ASIDE TO COOL AND TOP WITH A LAYER OF MELTED BUTTER #HILL UNTIL READY TO USE Serving suggestion: oatcakes with a bramble or redcurrant sauce and a few green peppercorns. Will serve 3 as a starter and leftovers will keep several days in the fridge.

Scottish Thistle Award Regional Ambassador (2018/19) for Central, Tayside & Fife, Wendy Barrie www.wendybarrie.co.uk is a highly respected campaigner for local sustainable food, popular cookery show presenter and food writer.

Founder & Director of award-winning www.scottishfoodguide.scot & www.scottishcheesetrail.com Wendy is Leader in Scotland for Slow Food Ark of Taste & Member of Slow Food Cooks Alliance. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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O U R FA R M SHOP Comrie Croft Farm Shop

In 1995 Braincroft Farm in the area of outstanding natural beauty west of Crieff became a hostel designed to accommodate the many travellers coming to explore the gateway to the highlands up in beautiful Perthshire. The Bunkhouse as it’s affectionately known, was a big success and James and Andrew Donaldson and their families, saw the potential for much bigger things at Braincroft.

Their idea was to pursue a rural 24

regeneration project, focusing on productive land use with an emphasis on sustainability.

With passion, hard work and community spirit, things evolved quickly at the Croft.

Such was the sense of belonging to the locals, the Croft was officially named as Comrie Croft in 2008.

The Croft is now a centre for recreation and business and the team, or Crofters as they are known, are kept busy looking

after the many facilities. These include a busy campsite, bike trails with options for all skill levels, and a highly successful Tea Garden cafe owned and run by the talented Ali and her team.

When people arrive at the Croft, they often don’t know what they can expect. After parking the car, you come up and see the Farm Shop and the old farm buildings. It feels like that’s it, but beyond there are the woods and trails and so much to explore.

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It is like entering an exciting world of nature and adventure. It is easy to forget the time…there is plenty to do for all ages.

In 2016 the permaculturecrofting was taken one step further and the Tomnaha’ Market Garden was born. Sam, Judith and Christy have farmed and developed the land and with much hard graft, they have created a very giving garden. With a huge variety of vegetables, herbs, berries and flowers.

COMRIE CROFT FARM SHOP With the abundance of seasonal delights coming from the garden, and growing number of guests to the Croft, we knew our wee campsite store wasn’t going to cut it any more and we took the chance to build our own Farm Shop.

The Farm Shop is the home of Tomnaha’s fresh, vibrant and varied garden produce.

Everything is grown with natural methods in a way that works with nature and the gardeners keep the shop well stocked with seasonal fruits and vegetables, salads, eggs and beautiful flowers.

The Shop is also packed full of other local delights: Sourdough breads and pastries from Comrie’s artisan baker John and his team at Wild Hearth Bakery, local award winning cheeses from Strathearn Cheese Co, essential meat from Grierson Organic Farm. To compliment all of the fantastic fresh produce we stocked the shop with a range of groceries, both local and organic…and not to forget marshmallows for the campfire!

Food is our passion in the Farm Shop, but that’s not all we do. We have a growing craft area with retro toys for the kids, books, knitwear camping essentials and an impressive camping and bush-craft section.

The shop embodies our principles here at Comrie Croft: Hard-work, passion, locality, community and sustainability.

We work with our neighbours, supporting both the market garden and the cafe and we have great relationships with our suppliers and partners and believe business should be a force of good. We believe in what we are doing at Comrie Croft and the Farm Shop has allowed us to share our vision and connect further to the local population and our guests.

It’s not surprising that Comrie Croft has also become a very popular venue for a barn and/or outdoor wedding and the shop regularly comes to the rescue of many a weary soul.

The shop will continue to evolve over time, we’re currently looking at ways to reduce packaging and eliminate plastic altogether. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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food Clydebank Students Learn How to be a Cut Above the Rest A group of second year professional cookery students from West College Scotland in Clydebank had the opportunity to hone their skills recently during a Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) butchery demonstration.

Using Scotch Beef PGI, award-winning butcher Nigel Ovens of McCaskie Butcher in Wemyss Bay emphasised to the group the importance of building a strong relationship with their butcher. This, he told the group, ensures the meat is prepared in the best possible way, the chef receives the most suitable cut for specific dishes and, ultimately, the client in the restaurant has a more memorable eating experience.

The students were also shown techniques and skills to guarantee

the consistency of the meat and also how to, in some circumstances, increase the potential of certain muscles traditionally perceived as lower value, slower cooking cuts.

The important role of the farmer was also explained, and the participants were encouraged to make use of the traceability and available information on how the animal has been reared.

“Learning from such an experienced and well-respected butcher such as Nigel has been a fantastic experience,” said Jack McMillan who is currently undertaking a level two professional cookery course at West College Scotland.

“I have certainly come away with a raft of new information and skills which will help me

make the most of the meat I use when cooking.”

This butchery demonstration is part of a range of activities QMS undertakes with colleges to increase skills and promote

the versatility and quality of Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork. visit www.scotchkitchen.com or follow Scotch Kitchen on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

#WatercressChallenge wows the crowd with an 8-course meal Six leading chefs embraced watercress at a unique event to help growers raise awareness of this nutritious leafy green, with its inclusion in a range of dishes from cocktails to chocolates.

AHDB joined forces with London Kitchen Social Live to put on the eight-course dinner at Grace

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Hall in London at the end of March as part of its marketing campaign #WatercressChallenge, aiming to showcase how wonderfully versatile and delicious watercress is.

The interactive event entertained and inspired, with each chef creating an innovative dish featuring the peppery salad vegetable, which were plated up in front of over 60 food enthusiasts.

Guests were treated to dishes such as seared scallops with watercress verde and crispy chicken skin from Louisa Ellis and miso glazed potato, black garlic with a watercress veloute from Eddie Kilty.

Eddie, a freelance chef and owner of private dining and popup business Kilty & Co said “I was asked to take part in the #WatercressChallenge and it was a great privilege to be involved in such a fantastic event to support the farmers and producers with this fantastic ingredient”.

From the welcome cocktail and canapés, to the six courses,

including the delicious watercress, sweet yoghurt and coconut dome dessert from Chris Wheeler, and even the bespoke chocolates at the end, each dish celebrated the great taste and versatility of watercress.

Be a part of the #WatercressChallenge by following, liking and sharing the British watercress love on Instagram and Twitter and find out more at lovewatercress.co.uk

Your Local Farm Shop Can Help You Become Plastic Free The Farm Retail Association (FRA) is encouraging the public to shop at Farm Shops and Farmers’ Markets to help them reduce their waste.

Rob Copley -- owner of Farmer Copleys in Pontefract and Chair of the FRA said: “A huge number of these farm-to-fork businesses have traditionally had less plastic produce packaging than supermarkets, and many have made an increased effort over the last 12 months. Customers can just choose the produce they want and

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use paper bags rather than plastic.

By reusing produce boxes and egg boxes as well as moving to paper bags, one of our members Minskip Farm Shop in North Yorkshire

food estimate they have reduced their own waste by 45% since 2017.”

Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers to many farm shops, and some have dried goods dispensers for customers to use. FRA member Milly Stokes at Farndon Fields Farm Shop in Leicestershire says, “We reuse all our produce boxes for customers to carry their shopping home. We also buy bulk dried goods and display them loose in glass jars, our customers can re-fill their own containers. All our deli counter items are wrapped in brown or greaseproof paper. We have had an

EU citizens in Scotland overwhelming positive response from customers for our recent changes to 100% eliminating single use plastic.”

Rob Copley agrees: “It is up to retailers to lead the way in reducing waste in store, which makes it easier for customers to reduce their own waste at home.

As farmers and retailers, we are all about getting our produce from the field to our customers as quickly as possible and reducing waste along the way is part of our mission.”

For more information visit www. farmretailassociation.co.uk

MasterChef 2019 contestant pledges future to championing ingredient provenance

A MasterChef contestant whose use of fresh, honest produce saw her reach the semi-final knock-out stage of this year’s competition has pledged her future to championing the provenance of ingredients.

Sarah Dugdale, of Gloucestershire, rose to fame on the popular BBC One cooking show having wowed renowned judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode with some sensational seafood dishes, which took their roots from the North West coast of England where Sarah grew up.

Having reached the last 16 of the competition, which also involved seeing off thousands of initial MasterChef 2019 applicants, Sarah is now lending her support to Happerley to become their ‘Live Happerley Ambassador’, where she will

connect and engage consumers with the journey of their ingredients, raising awareness of the importance of knowing the truth of food provenance.

Happerley, founded by farmers, is working on behalf of the whole UK food industry and all consumers to develop and implement a means to secure provenance, honesty and transparency, empowering the consumer with the knowledge of the journey that the food they consume has taken.

As part of her new role, Sarah will be leading the organisation’s new Honest Menus campaign, encouraging consumers to challenge restaurants to name their suppliers.

For further information on Happerley, please visit https:// happerley.co.uk/

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By Rural Affairs Secretary Fergus Ewing Continued opportunities for EU citizens to live and work in Scotland are essential to rural and coastal Scotland’s continued success and sustainability, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing has said.

Approximately 5.2% of Scotland’s total workforce is made up of EU migrants, with the rural economy particularly reliant on people from all over the EU with a vital mix of skills to support key industries, including: s UP TO %5 CITIZENS employed in food and drink s UP TO NON 5+ seasonal migrant workers employed in the soft fruit and vegetable sector s OVER %5 CITIZENS WORK in the Scottish fishing industry s &OOD 3TANDARDS 3COTLAND reports that 95% of official veterinarians are EU citizens s AN ESTIMATED %5 citizens were employed in the tourism sector, accounting for 11.6% of all employed in the sector The First Minister has made a commitment to EU citizens living here that they will be supported to remain in Scotland during and beyond the uncertainty associated with an EU exit.

Mr Ewing reiterated this commitment while visiting Pittenweem harbour, where he highlighted the importance of retaining freedom of movement for EU workers. He said: “This Government values the contribution EU citizens make to our economy and

society, and we want people who are here already to know they will be supported to stay in Scotland. It is also important for people thinking of coming to Scotland to work, even for a season, that we are open for business and that you will be welcomed warmly.

“With EU citizens already making up 5.2% of our workforce – many of whom have chosen to make their lives here – it is clear that any restrictions on movement and access to EU workers would have a significant detrimental impact on rural and coastal Scotland. This could potentially lead to labour and skills shortages and a possible reduction in domestic produce in favour of imports. For example, 58% of our fish processing labour workforce comes from the EU, without which there is a real risk to the future success and sustainability of the rural and coastal economy and communities.

“Our message to people is therefore clear: you are welcome here, you contribute to this country’s diversity and prosperity, and we will do everything we can to help you stay in Scotland.”

Background EU citizens living in Scotland are to be supported to remain in Scotland during and beyond the uncertainty associated with an EU exit.

How EU exit might affect people and businesses is available https://www.mygov. scot/eu-exit/

Cereals 2019

Under new management, Cereals has been re-energised with features, speakers and exhibitors that will inspire information sharing and learning opportunities around the future of arable farming. Cereals 2019 will host 20000 farmers, growers and agronomists together with 100 expert speakers and 400 leading suppliers for two days of networking, education and handson learning. If you already have your ticket, we are pleased that you will join the arable community in an expanded and improved Cereals 2019. And if you’re still waiting 28

to be convinced, please read on to learn about the benefits of attending Cereals 2019, the leading technical arable event in Europe.

As Brexit continues to unfold, the Cereals AHDB Theatre at this year’s Cereals event has a wide range of topics that will help attendees prepare, monitor and forecast for the future of the arable industry. The Cereals AHDB Theatre programme for 12 June 2019 includes a morning keynote and panel discussion entitled Preparing for Change – What’s on the horizon? This session will

provide insights from industry experts Minette Batters, President, NFU; Tom Hind, Chief Strategy Officer, AHDB; Mike Holland, Consultant & Advisor, Agricultural Law Association; Robert Sheasby, Chief Executive, AIC and Paul Temple, AHDB Board and Cereals and Oilseeds Sector Chair. The Preparing for Change panel will be moderated by Karl Schneider, Editor in Chief of Farmers Weekly.

In the afternoon of 12 June 2019, Andree Defois, President of Tallage and Managing Editor of Stratégie Grains, presents an

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outlook for the global arable industry over the next five years.

Tallage is a leading agro-economic research and analysis bureau and consultancy specialising in European and world grain and oilseed markets with main areas of expertise in grains, oilseeds and plant protein markets; agricultural by-products markets; animal feeds and the biofuels markets. This session will help attendees prepare for the seasons ahead.

An afternoon panel, moderated

by Martin Grantley-Smith, Cereals & Oilseeds Director, AHDB,

CEREALS 2019 discusses methods to increase farm business productivity and benchmarking to measure success.

Speakers include Susannah Bolton, Director of KE, AHDB; Oliver McEntyre, National Strategy Director, Barclays and Elizabeth Warham, COO/ Head, Agri-Tech, Department for International Trade.

Cereals AHDB Theatre highlights for 13 June 2019 include a global grain market forecast plus a domestic market outlook for 2019/20 with area & production scenarios presented

by Amy Reynolds, Economist at the International Grains Council.

This keynote will be followed by a panel entitled How resilient is your business? moderated by Phil Bicknell Head of Market Intelligence, AHDB. This panel will try to answer the questions around where the UK government now stands in regards to the global grain markets and what factors need to be monitored for the season ahead and subsequent years.

The Cereals AHDB Theatre will close with an afternoon keynote and panel dedicated to Integrated Pest Management moderated by Martin Grantley-

Smith, Cereals & Oilseeds Director, AHDB. Speakers include Emma Hamer, Senior Plant Health Advisor; Dr. Jon Knight, Head of Crop Protection,

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AHDB; Neil Paveley, Director of Crop Protection, ADAS and Sean Sparling, Chairman, AICC. New for 2019, the International Farming Superstars

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CEREALS 2019 presented by Farmers Weekly will bring together leading arable farmers from Australia, Netherlands, Germany, US & Canada: farmers who are pioneering new farming techniques and technologies, successfully tackling some of the most pressing problems facing the industry and delivering great results. Cereals attendees will hear what these international farming superstars are doing and the impact that it is having on their farms in a series of face-to-face sessions chaired

by Farmers Weekly Editor Karl Schneider and other senior members of the Farmers Weekly editorial team.

The new Cereals Conservation Agriculture Theatre will feature seminars and discussion on how best to maintain and develop the quality of soil in growing crops in a more sustainable manner.

Defending the land for future generations whilst ensuring the best quality soil for present crops is essential and the new Cereals

Conservation Agriculture Theatre will help attendees take next steps with actionable advice. This Theatre, requested by attendees to be included as new for 2019, will be an informative, practical insight into the contemporary issues farmers face today around sustainable agriculture.

Managing Innovation & Technology: Insights from the cutting edge is the theme of the Cereals Innovation & Technology Theatre. Forming a key part of the Cereals visitor experience and presented by some of the most forward-thinking farmers, suppliers and universities, the Innovation & Technology Theatre is an interactive area open to all visitors. The Innovation & Tech Theatre features the latest innovations, most recent product launches and newest technologies.

The Sprays and Sprayers Arena is sponsored again for 2019 by Syngenta. Syngenta looks at agriculture through the eyes of growers, and by applying world-class science to develop crop protection products and seeds. Syngenta innovations help farmers to overcome a multitude of challenges - from weeds, insects and disease, to the effects of heat and cold on crops. The Syngenta Sprays & Sprayers Arena will

Come and see us at stand 835 at the Sprayer Ring

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showcase the latest innovations and application sprayer technologies on the market from a wide range of suppliers. The sprayers will be tested and running throughout the event to ensure you can find the correct model for your arable farming needs.

Variety choice is at the heart of arable farming and crop plots are at the heart of Cereals. Located centrally within the event, the crop plots offer the chance to review new varieties and practices from a wide range of exhibitors. See not only the latest in breeding but also crop protection methods and soil management techniques. This year’s crop plots are presented by industry leaders including, in alpha order, AICC, Bayer, Belchim, Corteva, Defra, DSV, Elsoms and more. Please find the full list of crop plots presented at https:// www.cerealsevent.co.uk/cropplots The Hands Free Hectare presented by Harper Adams

CEREALS 2019 University showcases innovation at work: automated machines growing the first arable crop remotely, without operators in the driving seats or agronomists on the ground. This year’s Hands Free Hectare will present new work above and beyond last year’s exhibition at Cereals. Not only will regular demonstrations be running regularly throughout both days but the Hands Free Hectare team will also speak about their work in the International Farming Superstars Theatre presented by Farmers Weekly, representing innovation at work in the UK. With the position Cereals holds as a premier agri-tech event, the event must meet the need of education and information around the emerging technologies that are available for farmers today. With this in mind, Cereals will provide more technology at work with expanded demonstrations and the opportunity to Ride & Drive. Ride and Drive will

give attendees the chance to get hands-on with the products on display and truly experience the capabilities of the equipment on offer at the show. Working Demos and Cover Crop Drilling will allow visitors to access live demonstrations of the products, machinery and technology on display across the event. Due to increased interest, we have expanded the Cover Crop Drilling demonstration schedule.

All of this alongside the return of the NIAB Soil Pit, a favourite feature amongst visitors. Soil degradation costs at least £1.2 billion a year in England and Wales alone and soil health is fundamental for delivering productive farming and a healthy countryside. Not only this, soil management is critical to fighting climate change or alleviating the effects of it. The NIAB Soil Pit offers the chance to learn from industry leadership while getting your hands dirty.

Please note that CPD points are available for a variety of Cereals 2019 features. For a full list of applicable exhibitors and content features, please visit www.cerealsevent.co.uk today.

Thanks to our supportive partners, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and attendees, Cereals 2019 is set to be an amazing few days in the farming calendar.

Cereals will provide unsurpassed

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insights and innovation, with much of this year’s content build directly from and around industry feedback. We deeply thank you for joining this event as a new participant or for returning for another year in Lincolnshire.

Early bird tickets at the best discount are available now at www.cerealsevent.co.uk Come visit the future of farming at Cereals 2019!

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Scotland our brand Scotland is blessed with its fair share of the world’s best produce when it comes to natural heritage foods indigenous to our climate. We benefit, by enlarge, from steady rainfall and reasonable sunshine, the Gulf Stream and maritime breezes. Sure we have midges and haar but who has beef, lamb, shellfish, berries and game like us? Our dairy farmers are diversifying into high quality ice creams, cheeses and yoghurts and we have Scottish heritage grains grown commercially for the first time in over a century!

Indeed over fifty Scottish foods have been officially recognised as among the world’s valued heritage foods on Slow Food’s International website.

With such fabulous and intrinsically Scottish foods, past, present and future, this regular feature will focus on Scotland’s natural bounty and the folk who have used their ingenuity, passion and business acumen to use the produce in their own imitable ways.

Grainly Speaking

By Wendy Barrie Scottish Thistle Award Regional Ambassador (2018/19) for Central, Tayside & Fife Director of Scottish Food Guide Wheat has come a long way from the Fertile Crescent to the giant prairies of North America with machinery to match.

Interestingly today, in a world where so much is mechanised and many developments have saved lives, according to statistics from UN, over 70% of our food is still harvested using hand tools and somewhere along the way between selecting grasses for agriculture and monumental grain elevators, the nutritional value of grain in general has slumped. We lost our way in the race for tonnage and productivity.

Grains, predominantly wheat, have become a commodity of starch rather than a nutritious part of a balanced diet giving us valuable trace elements, minerals and fibre.

Here in Scotland we have a strong history of growing grains: naked and black oats, barleys, rye and wheat, and now an increasing number of cultivators and ecologists are reviving this tradition. Indeed for the first time in over a century we have heritage grains growing in Scotland for nutritious healthy loaves of bread.

Currently in Scotland we grow roughly 1M tonnes of wheat of which 15-20% would be sufficient to cover all our bread requirements yet we use the vast majority for bioethanol for cars, animal feed, distilling 32

and biscuits, with only dedicated enthusiasts seeking heritage grains. One such man is Andrew Whitley, baker, campaigner, author of Bread Matters and a pioneer of the Real Bread Revolution. He was determined to explore the possibility of grains that were better for people and planet than the modern varieties available. Andrew investigated what varietals were out there, particularly ones that could enable him to rebuild a credible wheat and bread system in Scotland. No mean task!

Research into digestibility, nutrition and sourdough cultures has exposed the differences between older varieties of wheat and modern developed ones.

There have been a number of significant studies showing the prevalence of allergy triggers in modern varietals and the reduction in trace minerals.

Hybrid breeding has unintended consequences of reducing the vitality in our food and, as Andrew says, “It doesn’t take a mathematical genius to show if we continue to plot this line we shall end up with foodstuffs that are seriously deficient in important nutrients.”

So could he really create change and raise awareness of the importance of nutrient density as opposed to commodity tonnage?

Could he reward farmers

Homegrown wheat, oat & rye

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appropriately and transform our food system, redefining health through seeds and stomachs to society?

Enter Andy Forbes of the Brockwell Bake Association, London and Hans Larsson of Allkorn, Sweden, both eminent authorities on traditional grains.

There is an agreement that enables citizens of any country to request a small number of seeds from world genebanks - with an obligation to return with like if and when you grow commercially. So with a little help from Andy, Hans and world seed banks, Andrew gathered Rouge d’Ecosse, Golden Drop and Hunter’s wheat seeds, having verified they would have been commonly grown in 19th Century Scotland.

In 2012, with 13 x 5g envelopes, amounting to 100 seeds of each, the first 39 seed trays of germinated wheat were ready for sowing at Andrew’s

Beremeal

near Lamancha, and Angus McDowell’s, a well-established Scottish farmer, maltster and miller at Mungoswells, East Lothian. The resulting grains were checked and tests revealed minerals and trace elements generally higher than in modern hybrids - this is true for old oat and barley varieties too.

Mungoswells harvested 15metres square of each heritage wheat, cut by hand and threshed, resulting in a few kilos of each and repeated the process. By 2015, from those original few seeds, Angus has sufficient to sow 1hectare of each with 3.5Tonnes harvest of each variety!

Fast-forward to 2018 and Scotland The Bread is well established as a Community Benefit Society and Registered Charity with Andrew as Chair and all three grains growing on Balcaskie Estate, Fife, where they are also milled for flour production at Bowhouse. Balcaskie sees a

future in growing these heritage grains, organically, turning local produce into good nutritious food.

Rouge d’Ecosse, Golden Drop and Hunter’s are all recognised on Slow Food International’s Ark of Taste and are being registered as Conservation Varieties by SASA. Interest in nourishing and tasty bread flours goes from strength to strength.

Also on Ark of Taste is Orkney Beremeal, an ancient six-row barley grown, milled and packed on Orkney to distribute to discerning cooks and chefs across UK. Barony Mill, operated by the Birsay Heritage Trust, is water-powered and a popular tourist attraction too. Bere has an earthy, nutty flavour and bakes to a rich shade of dark brown. Bere bannocks, a type of large scone, were eaten across the highlands and islands as their default bread and very tasty they are too. Old varieties such as Bere have larger root systems resulting in more minerals at less cost to the farmer as they do not require modern fertilisers.

Oats too are enjoying a renaissance as folk look to healthy grains for breakfast dishes and home cooking. Available as pinhead, coarse and fine flours, oats have versatility and good flavour. Rye, another healthy grain, is still grown in small quantities on the Hebrides and is ripe for increased production, ideal for deliciously dark rich loaves.

Scotland’s landscape and climate are conducive to rye as it requires little nitrogen. Visit Scandinavia and rye bread is still extremely popular as it once was here.

We too have experimented with grains in our modest wee kitchen garden, growing heritage wheat, rye, small and black oats.

It is deeply satisfying for a cook to mill home grown grain and bake a loaf or two. It is a perfect project for primary schools too.

There are farmers in Sweden who are making a good profit on growing heritage grains. They are collaborating together: marketing, milling and packaging products onsite. These grains give a lower yield but farmers are more than compensated by a higher price per kilo. Diverse grains have differing characteristics, from the strong taste of rye and bere, through to more delicate oats and a range of wheat flavours.

Variations are attractive for the brewing industry too, so there are opportunities for a good market for grain by growing a range of nourishing varieties.

Scottish artisan millers: Scotland The Bread - Rouge d’Ecosse, Golden Drop and Hunter’s heritage wheat.

Barony Mill, Orkney - Orkney Beremeal.

Golspie Mill - wheat, rye, oats and Peasemeal.

Mungoswells –barley and wheat for malting; bread and cake flours from local grain. …all above are available from Green City Coop so accessible to all.

Blair Atholl Watermill - oats and spelt flours Hogarth’s Mills - milling oats and pearl barley

Grains & bread

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Dubai Camelicious…more than just a brand!

WORLD FARMING Increasingly, we are finding that foods become fashionable from time to time. With today’s marketing and social media,

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the benefits gained from some of these foods, can be at best widely exaggerated and at worst can cause real harm, when the

By Fiona Sloan

information is inaccurate. What then, if we take a product, which has been used for thousands of years and has a proven record on its benefits, passed through generations and not through the media? We are all aware of the benefits of milk in our diet but there are also those among us who are lactose intolerant, particularly in far eastern countries and need an alternative to provide the nutrients lacking

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in a milk free diet. The solution could be quite simple….camels!

Camel milk is lactose free, has half the fat of cows’ milk and is high in unsaturated fatty acids or “healthy fats”, which help reduce cholesterol and aid cardio-vascular function. It is rich in Vitamin C with around a litre of camels’ milk representing the daily requirement and like cows’ milk is high in Calcium.

Studies have suggested, that it

WORLD FARMING has a positive effect on type II diabetes and ongoing research, is investigating the positive effects of camel milk on patients with hepatitis, autoimmune diseases, autism and rheumatism.

Thirty Five years ago, the idea of commercially producing camel milk, was born from the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory,(CVRL) in Dubai, when His Highness, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, asked the laboratory to look further into the benefits of camel milk, with a view to setting up a commercial camel dairy. In 2003, His Highness approved the plans and the Camelicious stud, which covers 15 square kilometres, was founded, with 626 specially selected animals

and has now grown to a current herd size of around 6000, with a projection of 10,000 at full productivity. The farm currently produces 4,000,000 kilos of milk per annum, under a fully integrated production system run by 533 staff. The aim of the dairy is to enhance creativity, in order to produce high quality products, which are both profitable and sustainable. The benefit of weather conditions in the desert, means that operation can be solar powered and produces 3.7 MW of green energy from the camel waste.

The ethos of the dairy, which still works in conjunction with the CVRL, who are responsible for the animals’ health and welfare, is to work on prevention

rather than cure, to maintain a high health status for its animals, ensuring a safe and top-quality product.

Bedouins, the historic nomadic tribespeople of the area, relied heavily on their camels for their life and livelihood in the desert, providing milk, meat, leather, soap and sunscreen.

While nomadic tribes no longer exist in the same way, the Camelicious brand can be found on a wide range of products, founded on these benefits, which are well documented. Together with its anti-oxidants, its lowfat content makes it popular as part of weight reduction. With no known, allergies to camel milk, it is good for those who suffer from allergies. One of

the things, which will however ensure its future sustainability, is the world obsession with looking younger, as it is purported to be an excellent anti-aging product.

Perhaps the main thing, which the Camelicious Diary in Dubai have done, which we have failed to do with the promotion of cows’ milk, is to educate children from a young age on the history and benefits of camel milk and all its products. The dairy continues the Bedouin tradition of hospitality to visitors and runs daily trips for school children from all over the United Arab Emirates, together with student places and overseas study tours, to encourage knowledge and interest in this important part of their history and economy.

Saudi Arabia’s SALIC Announces First Agricultural Investment in Australia SALIC Australia says transaction closes for the acquisition of Baladjie Pty Ltd comprising over 200,000 hectares of farming in Western Australia’s wheatbelt Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) Australia announced the acquisition of Baladjie Pty Ltd on Thursday April 4, 2019.

Baladjie is an aggregation of over 200,000 hectares of farming in Western Australia’s wheatbelt that also carries a 40,000head Merino sheep flock. The aggregation comprised John and Julie Nicoletti’s farming interests and other third-party options.

The transaction closed today after receipt of non-objection approval from Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).

Commenting on the deal, SALIC KSA CEO, Matthew Jansen, said: “The acquisition of Baladjie is an important step for SALIC as we continue to build our global footprint in a meaningful way. It is our first acquisition in Australia as well as our first investment in sheep production.”

SALIC’s Head of Production Agriculture Investments, William England, said that the local team will build on the legacy of John Nicoletti with plans to manage the livestock and grain production enterprise for the long term with a focus on sustainability, profitability, environmental responsibility

and support for the local rural community.

SALIC Australia is a wholly owned subsidiary of SALIC KSA, a Riyadh-based investment company 100% owned by sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF). SALIC aims to be a world-class food security focused agribusiness

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investment company, making sizeable, meaningful and scalable investments while ensuring a balanced risk optimized portfolio.

SALIC focuses on the food security objective of Saudi Arabia while maintaining commercial discipline, investing in new projects while taking existing agribusiness projects to new heights.

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topic

Simple safety for ATV users

When you think of a farmer’s vehicles, the first ones that come to mind are tractors and all-terrain vehicles (ATV). These are the cornerstone of any farm however, what an ATV offers compared to other vehicles is increased versatility in terms of towing and hauling capacity and the capability to handle multiple terrains with ease, from steep inclines to boggy field. These benefits have led to ATVs becoming the workhorse vehicles that are relied upon on a day to day basis.

With that in mind, always remember that the farm is a potentially dangerous work environment, so it is important that when using an ATV, safe riding is

at the forefront of the user’s mind when out in the field.

to ensure that it is in good working order.

reduction in the need to use the brakes.

Here are some top tips when it comes to rider safety:

• Avoid sudden increases in speed as this is one of the common causes for an overturned vehicle.

• When working a new area, make sure you walk the route before riding through it. This will give you a better perspective of the dangers or obstacles that you could come across.

• Make sure that the loads carried on the racks are secure and evenly balanced and do not exceed the capacity of the ATV (check the manufacturers’ recommendations).

• Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for any pedestrians, livestock, obstructions or other vehicles .

• Inspect the ATV before use

• Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a helmet, boots, long sleeve shirt and trousers when out riding.

• When riding across a slope, keep your weight forward.

When going downhill, slide your weight backwards, select a low gear and use engine braking, which leads to the

• You cannot predict the Scottish weather as one minute it could be bright sunshine and the next it could be pouring with rain, so be aware of changes in ground conditions as these could affect the loads you are carrying or the attachments you are pulling.

• Always read the owner’s manual.

Can-Am provides utility users with innovative, economical, comfortable and versatile ATVs and SSVs. 36

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IN THE BEGINNING Q1) Where were you born?

Lancaster actually but Dundee spiritually! My parents were briefly living over the border due to Dad’s work so I consider myself a Scots lass!

Q2) What is your earliest memory?

Around three, I received a doll’s house for Christmas that Dad had built as an exact replica of our home at that time – I still have it. He built me a variety of tree houses throughout my childhood and in 1991, helped me with the self-build project my husband and I live in today!

Q3) How would you describe your childhood upbringing?

Happy memories of Edinburgh life with frequent trips to Dundee for Bank Holidays, Easter, birthdays etc.

to pass on to our readers?

For years I kept this in my diary and always remember it… Eleanor Roosevelt said. A woman is like a tea bag - you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.

THE INTERVIEW up close & personal Your Name: Wendy Barrie Your job title: Director Company name: Scottish Food Guide & Scottish Cheese Trail What you do for the company?

What don’t I do! You name it I do it!

Q17) Is there a ‘dream job’ out there waiting for you?

To be able to continue to support and explore the world of sustainable food, doing as I do, is fine with me. Always learning, advocating kitchen skills and sustainable food production.

Q4) How was school for you?

An Edinburgh primary, a spell in Surrey (Dad’s work again), then St George’s Edinburgh where Dr Jean Lindsay was a strong and inspiring influence.

MOVING ON Q5) What were you into during your teenage years?

Playing guitar mostly.

Q6) Who was the first influence in your life?

My Dad: our country walks, his saintly patience with my maths homework and his great sense of humour.

Q7) College, University or straight into work?

QMC & Moray House Colleges.

Q8) Any unusual working experiences from those early years?

Gigs on the folk scene twice weekly to earn money through college…and beyond! My first salary job was teaching cooking to students.

GROWING UP Q9) What was your first car?

Mini Cooper

INTO BUSINESS Q16) Your current job, can you tell us a little more about what you do?

I collaborate with chefs and cooks, support and endorse both them and artisan producers, promoting and marketing them through Scottish Food Guide, offering a bespoke service. I present cookery shows, arrange guided food learning journeys and manage events. I run workshops in my studio and dedicate much free time to the Slow Food Movement, researching Ark of Taste and Presidia products, supporting biodiversity.

Q10) Be honest now, did you pass your test first time?

No chance - third time!

Q11) Can you remember your first love or passion?

Scottish tomatoes! Every early photo has me clutching a half eaten one! Still love them!

LIFE & LEISURE Q12) Do you have a talent that you would like to share with us?

I make a few of my own clothes and crafty bits’n’bobs.

Q13) Away from work, how do you like to relax?

Nature walks. Photography.

Music. Good food around a table with good conversation!

Q14) How is life today for you?

I thankfully enjoy every moment and wish to continue to do what I do. Watching our family enjoy healthy lives and living sustainably is precious to me too.

Q15) What is the best advice you have given and would like

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LAST THOUGHTS Q18) Is there was a single person (Alive or dead) you would love to meet?

Janet Henderson, founder of Henderson’s of Edinburgh, the oldest vegetarian family business in UK. She was a trailblazer in the 60’s when Edinburghers thought she was crazy! She was not antimeat but believed in natural wholefoods and the nutritional benefits of vegetables. She died before her time and I think she was a real character with strong beliefs.

Q19) And finally, is there one thing in the world you would like to change?

Only one? Perhaps if I opt for ‘more honesty’ that would cover food transparency, world politics and equality issues. If there were less mind games in commerce, food production and policymaking I think the world would be a fairer healthier place.

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???????

Open Farm Sunday…9th June, 2019

By Rebecca Dawes, Scottish Co-ordinator LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) is calling on farmers and crofters to join together on LEAF Open Farm Sunday (LOFS) – farming’s annual open day - to build public support and loyalty for British produce.

Since it started in 2006, the public appetite to see behind the scenes of working farms and crofts has increased rapidly with nearly 300,000 people visiting an event last year.

This annual initiative sees hundreds of farmers and crofters across the UK open their gates to show visitors what they do and why farming matters.

Cowbog Farm near Kelso took part in LEAF Open Farm Sunday for the first time in 2018.

The 182ha mixed enterprise is divided between arable ground, predominantly spring barley for malting through Alexander Inglis, and the Romany Herd of 240 high health polled Hereford Cattle. The family has also launched “Fluffy Moos” – a LEADER-funded diversification project focusing around the pedigree herd.

Before taking part, the family were concerned they did not have enough to show as Robert Wilson explains: “Before last year we had some reservations; we weren’t sure we had enough to offer as we aren’t heavily mechanised so didn’t have a lot of ‘kit’ to show and the cattle were outside so the sheds are normally empty 38

in the summer. In actual fact we realised on the day this was the last thing we should have worried about – we should have remembered it’s not other farmers looking around!

“I think our biggest worries on the day were no-one would come, and then too many people would come and, if they did, they’d come with a predetermined view of agriculture so no-one would find it interesting!

“We actually found what we considered day-to-day mundane tasks on the farm, others found fascinating. We’ve all got a

great story to tell from the technical aspects of precision farming to the hefting of ewes on a hillside. The myths and rhetoric that is spread on social media by many can easily be explained when you’re in a field with a conservation headland, parked up beside an area of wild bird cover buzzing with bees and insects, or when you drive into a field of cows and calves happily munching grass.

Michelle Anderson-Carroll from River Croft in Farr, Inverness-Shire had similar concerns about visitors. The 22

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acre croft rears pedigree Oxford Sandy & Black Pigs, Greyface Dartmoor sheep and Cayuga ducks, and welcomed 100 visitors in 2018. To help manage their day, they used the ticketing system offered via LEAF. “Visitor numbers are so unpredictable. In our first year, we ran two one-hour long tours and had around 80 visitors – a lot more than we were expecting!”

“In 2018, we decided to use the LOFS Ticketing system (supported by Trybooking) and it really is brilliant! We set-up 2 bookable tours but with a

OPEN FARM SUNDAY more manageable number of 35 visitors on each and promoted the link on Facebook. Each event was booked up quickly, but we also maintained a waiting list on the system. Some visitors did cancel at the last minute and were kind enough to let us know, which meant that we were able to contact those on the waiting list the evening before our event and offer them a place on the tours.”

“It also really helped us with knowing when people were arriving too. The track to our croft is a mile long with very few places for cars to pass – so before the second tour started, we asked the visitors from the first tour not to leave until the second wave of visitors had arrived.”

Of the 362 farms which hosted an LOFS event last year, 26% did so for the first time - the highest number to date. These farms and crofts encompassed all types of enterprise - arable, livestock and dairy through to horticulture.

It is free to take part in LEAF Open Farm Sunday and farmers and crofters don’t need to be a member of LEAF. Once registered, free resources can be ordered to support the event including a gate banner, roadside arrows, activity ideas, illustrative posters, colouring and word searches, seed packs and fact packs.

The day is about engaging with the public, building loyalty and influencing positive buying habits and wider industry support. A small farm walk for 20 people can make a big difference and is manageable for the farm/croft who have full control to decide how long and exactly what visitors see.

the optional free online ticketing service to manage visitor numbers.

A range of free resources including flyers, postcards, gate banners, arrows and information posters are also available.

To find out more or get involved: Rebecca Dawes, Scotland Regional Co-ordinator 07792 467730 or ofsrc. scotland@gmail.com LEAF office 024 7641 3911 or openfarmsunday@leafuk.org

2. Start small – a farm walk with a limited number of people or confine your event to one area of the farm/croft.

3. Manager your number – consider using the LEAF Open Farm Sunday ticketing system to give you added control.

4. Keep it short – you don’t need to run the event for the whole day, a few hours is sufficient.

5. Website listing – decide how and where you would like to advertise your event. One

host in Scotland only lists their event on the LEAF Open Farm Sunday website with maximum of 20 places and is fully booked each year.

6. Register – visit www. farmsunday.org, register and you will be sent a host farmer handbook with lots of information to support your planning.

7. Collaborate – invite other local farmers, crofters and friends to support you. Some simple notes and props are useful to help share your story.

Website www.farmsunday.org Twitter @openfarmsunday #OFS19 Facebook LEAF Open Farm Sunday Top Tips If you are thinking of taking part for the first time in 2019, here are some top tops from LEAF Open Farm Sunday: 1. Find out more - download the information pack at www. farmsunday.org

LEAF Open Farm Sunday will take place on Sunday 9 June 2019. For information and to register an event go to farmsunday.org All farmers and crofters considering hosting a LEAF OFS event can download the Information Pack at www. farmsunday or order a copy from LEAF 024 7641 3911.

Once an event is registered, farmers/crofters can access www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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IN

Protecting our PGI produce and identity

Scotland IS the brand

By Ruth Watson #keepScotlandtheBrand A wee cow from Kelty is the poster girl for this year’s Royal Highland show and I couldn’t be happier about it. ‘Skye of Little Rannoch’, last year’s Highland champion, will be the public face of Scotland’s largest agricultural show. Her tousled ginger locks, magnificent horns, and couthy demeanour will stand out from the crowd as her image sallies through busy streets on the side of buses.

She will light up the internet, provide a pause for passersby on billboards. Locals will admire her and tourists will love her for Skye is one of the most iconic of Scotland’s creatures: a magnificent Highland cow. There is a reason why her breed is increasingly found in fields around Scotland: they are terrific for business. One Pentlands farmer I spoke to, who has diversified to include holiday accommodation and an eatery, said the reason he keeps the cattle on the hills above his rental properties is not only for the quality Scotch beef they provide for his restaurant but also because people who come to visit love the look of these shaggy beasts browsing over land wellsuited for their needs but little else, from an agricultural perspective.

More people now take an interest in the origins of the food they eat. Many find there is a definite appeal in choosing to eat a steak which has come from cattle which evidently are living a contented life in a clean and wild environment.

Folk see these cows and they think of Scotland’s pristine environment, wild and challenging enough still 40

to have creatures which look like remnants of the Ice Age. Cows like Skye are part of Scotland’s brand identity.

I started the Keep Scotland the Brand campaign because I

recognised our unique selling point is being undermined on many fronts with potentially devastating consequences for our economy, our heritage, and our communities.

It was with dismay I watched the

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Canada – EU – Japan CETA trade talks conclude without one of the 86 Protected Geographic Indicator (PGI) names from the UK being included in the agreement, while farmers, fishers, food and drink producers across the Continent of Europe enjoyed full protection on 3,000 foods and products. That trade deal now is in effect meaning producers of Feta cheese and Parma ham are protected from cheap imitations while Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, Arbroath Smokies, Shetland wool and more, are not.

Only Scotch Whisky stands out from the crowd being in possession of their own PGI status rather than being reliant on the mandarins at Whitehall for safeguarding. It was with horror I read the US were licking their lips at the prospect of Brexit trade deals, demanding their lower food standards should be accommodated and it was time for their ‘Black Angus’ meat, complete with growth hormones, to nudge their way onto our shelves. The Australians have asserted they look forward to their ‘Scottish fillets’, also with growth hormones, competing with our Scotch beef once it has lost European protection. There are assurances coming from the Department for the Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) that there will be a PGI scheme in place after Brexit but the wording of the proposed scheme appears to lack the airtight protections of the European scheme. A recent evidence session from the USA trade team detailed the list of

IN

UK standards the American negotiators would have removed from our food and animal welfare regulations to allow them access to our market. It is hard to see how DEFRA’s proposals for PGI will withstand the onslaught of bullish American trade negotiations.

Scotland’s name for quality is recognised and valued around the world. As the Pentlands farmer had found to his profit, clear local provenance is good for business.

Scotland’s reputation for a clean environment, high standards, and dedicated attention to animal welfare has led to a quality Food and Drink sector worth £20 billion annually, and growing – if loss of access to the European Single Market and WTO tariffs don’t give our businesses a thumping they can’t withstand.

Clear labels mean customers can make clear choices. There is a reason why big companies spend time honing their message, developing logos, coming up with eye-catching adverts then guard their brands with jealousy and threaten litigation if their name is threatened, their product co-opted.

When we lose prominence, we lose market share. Brand names matter.

Scotland has become a premium tourist destination and our reputation for veterinary science, medical research, engineering, IT, art, design, textiles and more, has seen our country become a destination of choice for business and for pleasure. It is a reputation many nations envy.

At last year’s Royal Highland Show, many stallholders and visitors alike were astonished to find DEFRA’s ‘Great British’ campaign given prominence at an event which is the annual showcase for Scottish farming and produce. At international trade shows, posters declare The Kelpies and Forth Rail Bridge as ‘Great British’ tourist attractions.

On World Whisky day, the Department for International Trade promoted a carefully-lit image of casks of whisky in a Glasgow vault which declared ‘Heritage is Great Britain and Northern Ireland’. Our world-class produce is harder to find on our supermarket shelves: ‘own brand’ Scottish butter, once

universally-available, has all but disappeared, for example. A stroll along the aisles of many supermarkets might give one the impression many were left with at last year’s Royal Highland Show, that of attending a Jubilee street party, festooned with Union flag bunting. Why does this matter?

After all, Scotland is a nation within the United Kingdom. Well, let’s face it, after the last two years, the Great British reputation isn’t a great selling point in what is, for now at least, Scotland’s biggest

export market: the European Union. It also matters because – as all advertisers know - brand recognition is crucial for sales.

Brand loyalty counts and Scotland has a loyal market, both at home and abroad.

Research repeatedly shows Scotland’s name translates into sales, whether it be young English urbanites who choose to buy Scottish raspberries; Malaysian restaurants who want the exclusivity of Scotch Beef, with the reputation for quality

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its full-life farm assured scheme brings to a menu scrutinised by wealthy discerning diners; an Italian hotelier with a taste for North Ronaldsay’s exclusive mutton who loves the story behind this Orcadian speciality; or a wee woman in Kirriemuir wanting to buy Scottish butter to support local dairy farmers – a threatened breed in Scotland’s North East. There are many, many reasons why it matters that we work to Keep Scotland the Brand.

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topic

The benefits of using technology to collate farm data

By David Cairns, Agrochemical/Grass Seeds Director, McCreath Simpson & Prentice Much like many other industries, the agriculture industry in Scotland and beyond has experienced numerous technological advancements in recent years.

Agri-tech has evolved beyond recognition, and farmers can utilise the latest innovations for the benefit of their farm business performance.

Technology has developed across every aspect of a farm or agri-business, from machinery to livestock equipment and even fencing. To see these developments you just need to look to the wider industry, in particular the recognition of innovation by the industry at award schemes such as The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) annual Technical Innovations Awards.

One area in particular that has transformed how farmers manage the day-to-day running of their business is the way in which they manage their farm data. Compared to more traditional methods, using technology to collate, manage and analyse farm data has huge benefits for farms, agricultural and land-based businesses.

But what exactly are these benefits and why should you be considering the technology you use?

Real-time updates For farmers, having real-time access to crop and farm data can be very advantageous. This is especially important when time critical business decisions need to be made in areas like yield 42

optimisation or improving return on effort.

Farm data technology, particularly mobile-enabled tech, allows you to access realtime from suppliers and markets regarding crops and yields. At MSP, we utilise technology platforms to update customers in real-time when crops have been collected or seeds delivered.

Access data and advice remotely Having access to records, data and advice remotely offers the potential to make better and quicker decisions, leading to a more efficient business.

The ability to update your latest crop condition findings from your mobile phone while out in the fields is a much more efficient way of working.

Compared to traditional methods of pen and paper, or even desktop records, this saves time and ultimately money.

Easy to locate records By having your data records stored safely in “the cloud” you can easily locate them whenever you need them…from wherever.

Gone are the days when you should be trawling through outdated market prices or historic crop data, by using technology to collate your data you will be able to easily locate your records in an organised way.

Make more informed decisions With the ability to map fields and overlay key data, you can make fully informed decisions from your tractor seat and share with employees, contractors or other

key stakeholders to ensure you are making the best choices for your business.

By collating data on a regular basis, you can help your crops to thrive in future seasons by learning from historic data. This historic data allows you to make informed decisions based on actuals rather than guesses.

Working with a centralised system enables you to work in a much more efficient, agile and productive way. It allows easy access to information from all key individuals, from employees to agronomists, strengthening the team approach to farm profitability.

Security By using technological farm data management systems, you can be guaranteed that you are complying with all necessary legislations, such as GDPR. In an ever changing and complex environment, this offers peace of mind.

Your farm data is safe and secure when using technology to store and update it. Using other methods, such as excel spreadsheets or pen & paper, you have no audit trail and it can be difficult to ascertain who updated the data or what changes were made. With data technology you can be sure that everything will be logged correctly.

Increase profitability of your farm business The science behind maximising performance has never been so critical to profitability.

With much easier access to data and expert advice,

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your business can benefit from increased efficiencies and will reap the associated benefits.

At McCreath Simpson & Prentice (MSP) we work closely with our customers in order to provide access to all the information they need to be successful. We continually look for ways in which we can help, by investing in research and development, providing specialist agronomy advice, maintaining our high standard of products and service, but also looking externally for additions to our service in which we can all benefit from.

Most recently we’ve been working with Muddy Boots, who provide a cloud-based farm data management program that allows farmers and agronomists to create ag-chem and fertiliser plans, review applications and activities, share crop and field records and view soil test data to ensure crops meet customers’ growing protocols and quality requirements.

An established and trusted organisation, Muddy Boots work with leading companies throughout the supply chain and understand the expectations and demands of all involved, from knowing the soil pH to compliance and traceability. We feel this program is a great fit with MSP’s ethos of working for a better future for our customers.

It’s clear that technology developments in the industry are vast and cover almost every aspect of an agri-business and by using a mix of technology, hard work and expert advice your farm business can thrive.

Welcome to our 2019 Royal Highland Show Preview

What a show!

Every year we are treated to a huge variety of things to see and do. There is truly something for everyone at the Royal Highland Show For the farming community it is a chance to meet up socially as well as conduct a lot of business throughout the whole four days of the event. A wide range of livestock competitions also add a little spice to the mix, including breed shows and even fashion shows – in fact, something for every farmer too.

Scotland’s wonderful produce also has a great role to play at the RHS every year, and for me, I always start the day of any visit with an Arbroath Smokie, simply irresistible!

Of course, the Royal Highland Show is an important showcase for Scotland’s farming and rural industry, and as such, every year the showground is packed full of all the very latest machinery, innovations and services available for the sector.

The RHS is a very serious event for the industry, but it is also a great day out for the family, and as usual I will be there, wondering about, eating, buying and enjoying the wonderful Scottish weather…. you heard that here first!!!

Slàinte.

Athole Murray Fleming Publisher/Editor Farming Scotland Magazine

Jimmy Warnock, RHASS Chairman

If I had a pound for every person who has said to me ‘I used to love going to the Royal Highland Show as a child but I haven’t been for years’. My answer to them is ‘Why not?”

For four days the finest farmyard animals, the best food and drink, the most accomplished riders, spectacular entertainment and shopping at every turn come to Ingliston. It is nearly 200 acres of inspiration that will evoke memories and create lasting new ones.

Yes, I am a champion of the Show, but I’m not alone. Each year nearly 200,000 people make their way to Edinburgh from across the country, to experience Scotland’s rural life in glorious technicolour.

And no, it’s not just for farmers. In fact, I think it is more like farmers putting on a spectacle for the non-farming community so they can show what we get up to on the other 361 days of the year, when we are not at the Royal Highland Show.

This year, our ‘face’ of the Show belongs to Skye the Highland Cow, who you’ll be seeing on billboards across the country in the coming weeks. Skye was born and brought up on a small farm in Kelty and is a fine example of the wonderful livestock being bred by dedicated farmers across Scotland. Skye was crowned Champion at last year’s Show, and she will be back again this June to thrill the crowds and hopefully come away with another rosette.

I read the findings of recent research that revealed more parents are looking for educational outings for their children. The Royal Highland Show is one non-stop learning experience.

Accompanied children aged 15 and under get to experience the Show for free and there is a huge emphasis on engaging our young people. From making a healthy lunch, to milking a ‘cow’, to churning butter and taking part in our Tram Trail challenge to win an iPad. It’s there and waiting for inquisitive minds to meet the people who grow and rear their food. There’s also the chance to take part in some great outdoor activities, climb on giant tractors and get nose-to-nose with farmyard animals.

Scotland’s Larder Live! is Scotland’s largest food and drink festival with an abundance of food from every region of Scotland. Our Scottish Bread, Ice-cream, Cheese and Butter Championships will take place at the Show bringing together quality producers and the ingredients for the ultimate cheese sandwich!

Making time to get to speak to the farmers, the producers and those working in rural Scotland is really worthwhile. Our rural sector has shaped Scotland – its people, food & landscape ... essentially its way of life. By bringing together the Country’s Best food, entertainment, livestock and rural skills you can experience our unique culture in one day at the Royal Highland Show and meet the people who make Scotland the best country in which to live and work in.

Jimmy Warnock, RHASS Chairman.

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The countdown is on to the country’s biggest celebration of farming, food and rural life Preparations are well underway for the 179th Royal Highland Show, this year taking place from the 20th – 23rd June 2019 at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh.

Established as the celebration of the Country’s best in farming, food and rural life, the four-day event provides the best opportunity to get up close to farmyard animals, sample some exceptional food and drink and experience rural living at its most vibrant.

With a dedicated forestry area, an award-winning farrier display, a bustling Countryside Area, rural crafts, a huge range of farm machinery and a dazzling array of food and drink, there’s something for everyone from every walk of life.

Pipe band at the RHS

The Country’s Best Day Out for… Families Children aged 15 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult, and the Royal

Highland Education Trust (RHET) Discovery Centre is just the place for curious young minds eager to learn more about the countryside and where their food comes from.

One of the many prize winners

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This year, the Discovery Centre will come alive with a cooking workshop, live demonstrations and interactive sessions across the fourdays.

The Forestry Arena witnesses record breaking attempts, with the Scottish Pole Climbing and Utility Pole Climbing Championships taking place alongside thrilling bike displays and forestry demonstrations. In addition, a packed programme of music and entertainment will keep the whole family happy all day long.

The Country’s Best Day Out for… Animal Lovers The livestock have always been at the heart of the Royal Highland Show, and for good reason – the world-class showcase of animals is truly a sight to behold, with over 6,000 of the finest cattle, sheep, goats, horses and poultry on display for the public to see.

Proud to display Scotland’s traditional skills, visitors will be able to marvel at the skilfulness of competitors as the Show plays host to the Scottish Open Farriery

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Championship Horse-shoeing and shoe-making competitions in the Forge, while the Sheep Shearing Area demonstrates the amazing speed and dexterity of some of the country’s most experienced sheep shearers.

This year, the spotlight will be on the iconic Clydesdale Horse in celebration of the power behind farming at the turn of the 20th century. The Zwartbles National Sheep Competition is also set to be a highlight this year thanks to the breed’s striking appearance, amenable nature and lively character – a true crowd pleaser.

The Country’s Best Day Out for… Foodies Scotland’s Larder Live! is the country’s largest food and drink festival and has become one of the biggest celebrations of Scottish produce. A visit is an absolute must, offering a chance to taste new and exciting artisan food and drink from across Scotland, as well as catch the fantastic line-up of demonstrations, talks and more from some of Scotland’s greatest

Royal Highland Show 2019 chefs in the Cookery Theatre.

Once visitors have sampled their way around Scotland’s Larder Live!, they’ll be able to see the results of this year’s Scottish Bread, Cheese, Butter and Ice Cream Championships unfold.

If visitors are still feeling peckish, there is a fantastic selection of Food-To-Go stands on every corner of the Showground.

The Royal Highland Show’s strict Food Charter ensures that only locally produced and ethically sourced food be served at the Show – from delicious venison burgers to tasty fish and chips and locallygrown strawberries bursting with flavour.

The Country’s Best Day Out for… Shopaholics Extensive shopping opportunities lie in the Show’s 13th Avenue Arcade, where visitors will be spoiled for choice with the exceptional array of country fare on offer. Retailers in attendance include those offering fashion,

pet accessories, horse supplies, jewellery, arts & crafts and garden furniture. With some £8 million spent on shopping alone over the four days and exclusive Show deals on offer, don’t miss the chance to grab some topquality bargains.

Jimmy Warnock, from the Royal Highland Show is looking forward to this year’s event. He said: “The Royal Highland Show is undoubtedly the most significant celebration of farming and food in Scotland, where members of the public can engage with rural life and gain a deep appreciation for our agricultural industry.”

“It is fantastic to see that the Royal Highland Show continues to attract a large and diverse audience, with almost 190,000 people attending last year, and 60% of those coming from urban areas. We look forward to welcoming families, foodies and farming enthusiasts alike this June.”

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Royal Highland Show 2019

The A-Z of the Royal Highland Show 2019 A Agricultural equipment See the fantastic display of farm machinery and take the opportunity to visit the stands, compare brands and find out about the latest developments.

B Best – The Show is truly the country’s best day out for so many reasons – food and drink, shopping, entertainment and of course the stars of the Show, the animals!

C Countryside - The Countryside Area is a must-see part of the Show. Set by its own loch, it’s home to so many demonstrations, including birds of prey, sheepdog and ferret displays.

D Dairy - The Scottish Ice Cream, Cheese and Butter Championships will be taking place once again at the Show.

We are in for a treat!

E Equestrian - The Show always welcomes an impressive range of horse breeds, from the adorable Shetland Pony to the majestic Clydesdale.

The spectators getting ready to watch the showjumping

F Food - Scotland’s Larder Live! is back bigger than ever with a line-up of top chefs showing us how it’s done. Wander through and enjoy the smells, tastes and sights of the best

that Scottish food and drink has to offer.

G Grand Parade - Enjoy a spectacular moving display of the country’s best livestock as a parade of prize-winning

H

I

J

K

The art marquee at the RHS

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cattle make their way across the Main Ring. No charge for seats in the grandstand.

Highland Cow - The face of this year’s Show is Skye of Little Rannoch, Breed Champion of last year’s Show and a prime example of Scotland’s famous cattle breed.

Innovation - the latest labour, time and money-saving gadgets for rural businesses, as seen in the Technical innovation Awards, which RHASS has support since the year 1786 Judges - The Show attracts some of the top judges in the UK, who come from all over, from Orkney to Cornwall, to judge livestock, food and drink and much more.

Kids - yes, the name for young goats! If you visit the Goat Marquee in the Countryside Area you can see breeds such as Anglo Nubians, British Alpine, Golden Guernsey, Saanen and Toggenburg .

Royal Highland Show 2019 L Legging it up the Pole! Make sure to visit the Forestry Arena, which is home to the Scottish Pole Climbing Championships along with action-packed forestry demonstrations.

M Music - the Show caters for all musical tastes, from ABBA or ceilidh, to pipe bands or opera.

N New - One of the Show’s highlights is the bountiful shopping opportunities on offer, and as always you will be spoiled for choice with an exceptional array of country fare.

O Online - Get all the latest up-to-date information on the Show on the website and keep checking our social channels for further updates.

P Presidential Initiative - The 2019 Show will celebrate the Borders, showcasing the unique heritage and culture of the region and promoting responsible countryside access.

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Q Queen Bee - Find out all you need to know about honey and the importance of bees in the Show’s Honey Marquee by the West Entrance, and don’t miss the prize giving at the Honey Championships!

R RHET - The Royal Highland Education Trust Discovery Centre is just the place for curious young minds eager to learn more about the countryside and where their food comes from.

S Shindig - This year the ‘Shindig at the Show’ will see the Main Ring transform in to dance arena for the Eightsome Reel – you can sign up with your own group of 8 to join in the ceilidh!

T Trials bikers in the Forestry Arena show their courage and skills with amazing stunts, illustrating why biking in the forests of Scotland is increasingly popular.

U Unwind - The Show is the perfect place to catch up

A selection of tweed jackets

with friends, relax and enjoy the best that Scotland’s countryside has to offer.

V Variety - There’s such a variety of things to see and do – cattle and sheep, The Forge, Show Jumping, Heavy Horse Turnouts, Ceilidh bands, Choirs, Shopping, Cookery Theatre, Artisanal Foods and Drinks.

W Wool - Always a visitor highlight, the MacRobert Theatre provides some of the fastest action of the Show at the Sheep Shearing Competitions.

X Xcitement. - There’s plenty of excitement at the Show

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– make sure you get your programme so you don’t miss out on a single thing!

Y Youth The Show enthusiastically supports its young people, with many young handler classes featuring on the competition schedules across the board.

Z Zone - To make the most of your visit we want to ensure you can get around the Showground easily. Watch out for the coloured zones on your map – e.g. The Motor Zone where you can see the latest pick-ups, commercials, 4 x 4s, quad bikes and ATVs.

Royal Highland Show 2019

Judges For 179th Royal Highland Show The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has announced the judges for this year’s Royal Highland Show, held on the 2023 June 2019.

The job of placing the country’s top sheep, horses, cattle and goats will be down to 113 highly experienced names in the judging world, spanning the length and breadth of the UK, from Cornwall to Orkney.

The Royal Highland Show will welcome two new sections in 2019, with the inaugural Overall Young Handler and Dairy Cattle Any Other Breeds Sections supplementing the current schedule. Prominent Blackface breeders, Ian and Patsy Hunter, who were awarded the prestigious Sir William Young Award for their contribution to livestock

breeding at last year’s Show, will judge the Overall Young Handler and have kindly donated a trophy for the winner.

Murray Cochrane of Ayrshire will be the man in the middle placing the Any Other Breed section in the dairy rings.

Not only does Murray follow five generations of successful Ayrshire breeders but he has made a name for himself in the ring in his own right, both with his exemplary showing career and his 19 years working as a classifier for Holstein UK. The 2018 Royal Highland Show saw the Highland Hall near to capacity, housing almost 1,100 beef and dairy cattle. For 2019, the dairy rings will see Paul Harrison of Northumberland placing Overall Dairy. Paul is wellknown for his ‘Chilshillways’

Holsteins and ‘Breckney’ Dairy Shorthorns. Celebrating its 40th year is the Royal Bank of Scotland trophy which was first presented to Ian C Gilmour & Sons in the Dairy Cattle section in 1979. The Ayrshire & British Red and White classes will be judged by Michael Broadley of Buxton, Derbyshire, while Mark Logan will travel from Bangor, County Down to judge the Holstein section. James Waring of Beverley, North Humberside will place the Jersey cattle.

Cheshire-based Rob Boote judges the Dairy Shorthorn, and Louise Graham of Canonbie, Dumfriesshire will judge Dairy Calf and Showmanship.

The privileged task of placing the Overall Beef Interbreed and Interbreed Teams falls to Stewart Wood of Garston Farm, Orkney, with

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the Beef Interbreed Pairs in the capable hands of former RHASS director Rob Forest, Duns. David Evans will judge the Aberdeen Angus class and is well-versed in the breed, previously having been President of the Aberdeen Angus Cattle Society. British Blonde is to be judged by Leanne Workman, a prominent stockwoman in Northern Ireland who is involved with Women in Agriculture. A well-known face at the Royal Highland Show and long-time exhibitor, Jack Ramsay will judge the Beef Shorthorn.

The sheep rings see 2015 William Young Award recipient Archie Macgregor of Kilsyth, Glasgow, judging the Overall Sheep Inter-Breed Championship and Pat Greaney of Usk, Monmouthshire placing

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Royal Highland Show 2019 the Overall Sheep Pairs InterBreed Championship & Sheep Young Handlers classes. The 2018 Royal Highland Show Commercial Sheep Champion, Andrew Bailie, will return as a judge for the Beltex section.

Jim Fletcher makes a change in 2019 from previously judging the Scottish Honey Championships to judge the Hampshire Down classes.

The 35 horse sections will be judged by some of the most experienced equestrians in the industry with 38 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) Championship Qualification classes up for grabs. The Pickford sisters Michelle and Leanne will be judging Ridden Coloured with Catherine Marshall of Struie Shetland Pony Stud fame, judging the St Johns Wells Trophy.

Taking the reins in the Overall Mountain and Moorland InHand is Robert Parker-Jones and following numerous

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successes at HOYS, Dublin Horse Show and the Balmoral Show, Richard Iggulden will be judging the Cuddy section of the Light Horses.

In the Heavy Horse classes, Clydesdale In-Hand Males will be judged by Captain James Anderson of Kilmalcolm, winner of the 2017 Sanderson Cup, and John Anderson of Arbroath will judge Clydesdale In-Hand Females. John has a prestigious track record of breeding In-Hand and Driving champions over the years. The Highland Pony In-Hand Male section will be under the careful eye of Debbie Spears, Little Brickhill, Buckinghamshire, and Marguerite Osborne, Kirriemuir will oversee the Highland Pony In-Hand Females. The Shetland and Miniature Shetland Ponies will be a family affair in 2019, as husband and wife team Robert and Dorothy Griffiths will act as judges.

Judging at the show

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Royal Highland Show 2019

Horses at the Highland Show The Royal Highland Show is the largest equestrian event in Scotland, with over 1900 horses coming from across the country to compete. Competition is fierce for a share in the prize money, which last year saw £7500 awarded to the winner of the Show Jumping Grand Prix.

The launch of a brand-new Cob class and the ever-popular Pony Club games will bring together riders of all standards to the delight of the 190,000 people who flock to the Show each year.

As the most prestigious equestrian event in Scotland, the Show attracts a great number of sponsors for Show Jumping, including Andrew Black – a supporter for over 30 years – as well as Grand Prix sponsor Spire Edinburgh Hospitals, who recently signed up for a three-year sponsorship deal.

RHS Show Jumping Grand Prix

Other sponsors for 2019 include Archer Knight (William Sheret

MBE), Wright Johnston & MacKenzie and ERS Insurance,

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which is lending its backing to the exciting Accumulator Class.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 This year, our longtime course designer, Mark McGowan, will be joined by Olaff Hermann, international level 3 FEI course designer, who will be designing the International Stairway competition, as well as some of our national classes, and will assist Mark with the Spire Edinburgh Hospitals Grand Prix on the Saturday. The courses are set to be as challenging as usual, providing a real test of skill for

the qualifying horses and riders.

We are excited to announce that this year’s Show will feature a Clydesdale Horse Celebration, organised by the Clydesdale Horse Society (CHS). This thrilling performance will salute the role of the Clydesdale as the historic power behind farming, showcasing the evolution of its use over the years, right up until the present day.

The display will take place in the main ring on the

Friday afternoon and will feature both the horses and the farming machinery they used to power. The finale will involve a drill ride by the Strathorn Drill Display Team, which promises to be a stirring display of the breed’s power and beauty. The machinery will also be on exhibition after the performance beside the CHS trade stand for visitors to have a close-up look at the

technology which shaped the future of farming.

Commenting on the Show, Chief Steward for Show Jumping, Anne Logan said: “It is truly inspiring to witness the skill and dedication that the equestrian competitors bring to the competition at The Royal Highland Show each year. The 2019 Show promises to deliver another premier event for the equestrian world.”

Investing in innovation Every year, RHASS celebrates outstanding innovation in the agricultural industry with its Technical Innovation Awards, presented at the Royal Highland Show.

McVeigh Parker is a specialist farm and fencing supply company that has been in business for 40 years. Their pioneering fencing system, Clipex, won Gold in the Technical Innovation Awards at the 2018 Royal Highland Show.

Clipex is a revolutionary fencing solution, cutting the assembly times of traditional fencing in half and drastically reducing the need for ongoing maintenance.

We spoke

with Chris Hambridge from McVeigh Parker to find out what makes Clipex special and why it’s worth getting involved with the Awards.

Tell us a bit about your company?

“Our company specialises in the wholesale and retail of farm and fencing supplies. We employ approximately 100 staff across eight branches nationwide. We have been trading for 40 years, having established in February 1979.”

What led you to develop your product and how is it helping the industry?

“In Clipex, we developed a whole fencing solution that

would last 30 plus years. It was initially considered because of the poor quality of timber treatment on offer, and the general shortage of timber due to biomass demands.

“We combined the latest innovations, including the strongest, longest lasting wire in the market, XFENCE, with the unique quick clip and all galvanised steel intermediate posts of Clipex, and completed the product with our own designed all-steel strainer and strut system. Initially we were looking for a longlasting solution, however this system has not only proved to offer longer life but can also

Geoff Goodfellow & Robin Craig of McVeigh Parker & Co Ltd winners of Tech & Innovation Awards RHS 2018 Gold

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be erected in half the time, whilst demonstrating up to 50% savings in both lifetime costs and labour.”

Why did you apply for the RHASS Technical Innovation Award?

“We applied for the award as it was a nationally recognised, non-biased award, requiring a quality product that could pass strict entry criteria. We were confident our Triple X Fencing System of XFENCE, Clipex posts and steel strainers would offer real returns and stand up to the RHASS scrutiny.”

Has winning made a difference to your business?

“It has certainly increased the profile of our company and the products we promote. It has given validity and assurance to the end user, demonstrating the awarded products have stood up to independent testing.”

What are your plans for the future of your business?

“Stay in business and grow. We are looking to bring more innovative products to the market that will save our customers both time and money and offer real return on investment.”

What would you say to someone interested in applying for an award?

“Go for it, if you have the confidence your product will stand up to independent tests and rigorous examinations and really offer returns to the end user - it’s certainly worth applying.”

Royal Highland Show 2019

NFU Scotland at Royal Highland Show Whether it is to meet, greet, eat or have a seat, the iconic stand run by NFU Scotland and NFU Mutual on the edge of the main ring is an annual stopping off point for thousands of our farmers and crofters when they attend Scotland’s leading agricultural event, the Royal Highland Show.

This year will be no different.

The buzz around the stand, particularly around lunchtimes and 2pm (coinciding with the traditional serving of strawberry tarts) is unmatched.

But, as members, you don’t just come for the excellent fare. You want to know that the Union, as the lead farming organisation in Scotland, is representing your interests and that is an opportunity for our officeholders and staff to meet and discuss with you the huge and widening list of policy areas in which the Union is working.

Brexit will dominate. The Highland Show will mark the third anniversary of the vote to leave the European Union and come June 2019, we may have seen a political agreement reached in the UK parliament on withdrawal or we may

be making use of the agreed extension to October. We don’t know. What we do know is that NFU Scotland’s team has been on the front foot on Brexit since day one, shaping and influencing decisions, representing our members’ best interests and ensuring that the right policies and support are in place to secure a bright and prosperous future for our farmers and crofters in the Brexit aftermath. So if you have Brexit questions, come along and meet the experts!

Whatever the future holds, NFU Scotland is committed to offering you the opportunity, through partnerships and affinity deals, to make a genuine difference to your bottom line. NFU Scotland has 35 discount partners covering vehicles, energy, water, lighting, recycling, travel and last year we saved members a staggering £2 million. Come to the stand to hear how NFUS membership will save you money.

And the stand could be even busier this year because the Union is set for its third year of membership growth.

This year we are doing something new on the recruitment

front. Launched ahead of the Highland, we have a video campaign where existing members talk about why the Union is so important to them. These are unscripted, filmed round kitchen tables on farms and crofts and deliver a powerful personal message about why it is important to be a member.

They will be used to promote the Union at the Highland with the aim that we can grow our membership for a third year in a row.

In addition, we launched a new family membership in November with hundreds

Come along and meet the Quality Meat Scotland team at Royal Highland The Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) team will be pulling out all the stops over the coming months to

NFU Scotland and NFU Mutual stand

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already signed up. We recognise that farming and crofting is very much a family affair with many businesses handed down through generations. It feels right that all with an interest in the business from the wife, husband, children and business partners can enjoy the benefits of NFU Scotland as much as the named subscription payer.

These are uncertain times, so it is good to know there are some things you can rely on.

NFU Scotland and NFU Mutual will be in their usual spot at the Highland this year, and for years to come.

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make the most of the opportunity the Royal Highland Show offers to showcase our industry and its brands.

The event, which runs 20 – 23 June, offers an unrivalled opportunity to show the public the work, skills and dedication which go into the production of Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork.

Visitors to the QMS stand will be able to watch a range of activities – from celebrity cooking demonstrations, butchery demos to fun competitions and giveaways. There will also be a range of exciting interactive activities for families in our health and education area, where the key messages will include animal welfare, the red meat industry’s great sustainability message and red meat’s role as part of a healthy diet.

BBC Radio Scotland presenter Bryan Burnett will be with us for

Royal Highland Show 2019 show week and the irrepressible “Queen of Cuisine” Lady Claire Macdonald will be entertaining the crowds in our cookery theatre on Thursday and Friday.

Jak O’Donnell, owner of the Sisters restaurants in Glasgow will take over the reins and wow show-goers with delicious demos over the weekend.

In addition to our celebrity demonstration chefs, there are plans for a Young Farmer of the Year cook off and a series of interviews with well-known faces from the farming sector throughout the show.

QMS is also delighted to offer hundreds of children the chance to cook simple, nutritious dishes with Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork at this year’s show at the Scotch Beef Children’s Cookery Theatre, in the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) Discovery Centre.

Hamish, Ewenice and Harry Trotter, our Scotch Beef, Scotch

Photo time at Quality Meat Scotland marquee

Lamb and Specially Selected Pork brand mascots will be joining our brand ambassadors to give away goodies and

special Scotch Kitchen recipes throughout the show (you’ll find more at www.scotchkitchen. com). There will also be the

Visit our stand at: Avenue F, Stand 125

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chance to buy a the much sought after limited edition Royal Highland Show 2019 Scotch Beef t-shirt with all proceeds

Royal Highland Show 2019

Hightime it’s Showtime!

A time to enjoy Scotland’s Larder

by Wendy Barrie Mid June in Scotland can only mean one thing – The Royal Highland Show! In Sweden, it is a time for dancing, celebrating Midsummer on village greens.

My husband is Swedish but rest assured he was swiftly converted and now wouldn’t miss The Royal Highland Show for anything!

Every year there are about 190,000 visitors. Some come to see country life, watch demonstrations of traditional skills and explore the range of art and handicrafts on sale. Others watch in awe as Clydesdale horses pull immaculately painted wagons round the Main

Ring or delight in the miniature Shetland Ponies as they parade with their equally impeccably dressed owners! A must see is the ‘heavy horse wash,’ away from the arena, where they are cossetted and combed in readiness for their big entrance.

It is a time for catching up with old friends and making new connections: family gatherings and business networking. While visitors enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes, it is serious business if you are showing animals.

Rosettes won at this prestigious event are proudly displayed, offering further endorsement to good bloodlines. It is a rare

chance to see every shape and size of reared breed in one place. From the dainty dark Hebridean Sheep with up to eight horns, to splendid Highlanders from Balmoral, they are all an amazing sight to see – nowhere else will you find so many shampooed sheep or perfectly coiffed coos!

With so much to see, many attend all four days however if yours is a day trip, make it a long one! For machinery devotees there are avenues of every combine and tractor known to mankind, gadgets and gizmos for farming, forestry, smallholders and gardeners;

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functional sheds and gorgeous gazebos, henhouses and horseboxes.

With the promise of a Good Food Nation Bill, a Scottish Food Tourism Strategy and Ambition 2030: A growth strategy for farming, fishing, food and drink, when could there be a better time to visit? Food is undoubtedly a hot topic. Food security and sovereignty are worthy of deep consideration, our diet is under scrutiny and at the time of writing, farmers and consumers are none the wiser what our food map may look like in the months to come regards Europe.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 Will chlorinated chicken be on the menu? Will Europeans be buying our lamb?

One thing you can be sure of is that Scotland has fine produce of its own for us to enjoy for a healthy and delicious diet. Many such producers exhibit in the Food Halls so see for yourself: Scotland’s cheesemakers can make prize-winning Camembert and Tomme, our charcuterie experts create fine salamis and cured sausage, and micro leaves and chillies thrive in Dumfries & Galloway. We have pedigree beef and lamb, fabulous shellfish, and I haven’t even mentioned the whisky and gin, all produced on home turf.

Apart form a grand day out, such an exhibition of Scotland’s food culture is also a lesson in breed, feed and flavours. Chefs join us at Scotland’s Larder Live Cookery Theatre to share their expertise and passion for our produce. All are ken-speckled faces in Scotland and beyond,

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acknowledged experts in their field with ideas to inspire you in the kitchen. Seven shows daily give a continuous merrygo-round of highly acclaimed chefs and cooks to entertain you. Reflecting a bygone age when the Show moved around Scotland, each year a particular region is highlighted, as a nod to where it would have been had it not established its home at Ingliston in 1960. 2019 is Border’s turn so we reflect this in our theatre with chefs from Lauder, St Boswells, Peebles and Selkirk, in addition to further afield.

Elsewhere in Scotland’s Larder Live Food Hall are the Scottish Championships in Cheese, Butter, Ice Cream and Bread categories and the smaller Tastings and Talks Theatre where stand-holders can share their produce and experiences with audiences.

The Dairy Championships are long established and hotly

Paul Newman and Wendy Barrie

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Royal Highland Show 2019

Something to savour!

contested across the categories with expert judging from ice cream aficionados, chefs and deli owners who love a good cheese counter. Judging takes the best part of two days: fresh soft crowdies to mighty mature farmhouse cheddar styles; ices of every description and smooth butters.

Its younger sibling The Scottish Bread Championships,

in association with Scotland The Bread & Scottish Food Guide, was created by Andrew Whitley and me in 2017 and has gone from strength to strength.

We have an experienced panel of judges lined up for a day’s intensive evaluation of entries including Jock Sharp (twice Supreme Champion in 2017 & 2018), grain experts, chefs and breadmakers.

Great variety of breads on display

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Royal Highland Show 2019 As this goes to print Scotland’s Larder Live Cookery Theatre Timetable is almost complete and includes…

From the Borders….

David Haetzman, Chef Proprietor, Firebrick Brasserie, Lauder. Catering in Scotland (CiS) Winner 2017 & Thistle Regional Winner for Best Eating Experience 2018.

Gareth Gilder, Head Chef, Buccleuch Arms, St Boswells. Countryside Alliance Sporting Pub of the Year 2017 & CiS Excellence Awards Pub Excellence Winner 2013.

The Batch Lady, Suzanne Mulholland, batch cooking and meal planning par excellence, near Selkirk.

Cringletie House Hotel, gracious country mansion

by Peebles, back by popular request.

Andrew Whitley, Bread Matters & co-founder of Scotland The Bread. The Nation’s authority on breads.

Aberdeenshire…

Craig Wilson, ‘The Kilted Chef,’ Proprietor of Eat On The Green. CiS Excellence Award for Food Tourism 2018

& Thistle Winner of Best Eating Experience in Scotland 2019.

Edinburgh & Lothians…

Neil Forbes, Café St Honoré.

Thistle Award Winner for Lothian & Borders 2018/19 Best Eating Experience & Scotland’s first Soil Association Organic Restaurant Award.

Carina Contini, of Contini Restaurants & RHET’s Ambassor. CiS Excellence Sustainable Business Award 2018.

Glasgow & West…

Andy Christie, Head Chef at Gleddoch House, Luxury Hotel, Spa & Golf Club.

Stirlingshire…

Mark Heirs, Personal Chef, Thistle Regional Ambassador Finalist 2018/9 Perthshire…

Paul Newman, Errichel House and Cottages, Thyme at Errichel Restaurant, Aberfeldy, Winner of Food & Drink Awards 2018 & Regional Thistle Winners 2018/19 Best Eating Experience.

Ali Abercrombie, AliBob @ Cairn O’Mohr, Errol.

Regional Thistle Award Best Informal Eating Experience 2017 & Scotland’s Best Baker 2015 & 2016.

Fife…

Wendy Barrie, Founder & Director award-winning Scottish Food Guide & Scottish Cheese Trail. Leader for Slow Food Ark of Taste in Scotland & Thistle Regional Ambassador 2018/9.

The Royal Highland Show is the envy of many a nation where agriculture and local food production are under threat and, once gone, nigh impossible to recreate. We are blessed in Scotland to have the land and skills, the weather(!) and the determination to enable us to be famed for fine produce, so take the opportunity to explore our food culture, from land to larder.

See you at Ingliston in June!

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B E A U T I F U L LY D E S I G N ED I N T E R I O R S

B E A U T I F U L LY

D E S I G N E D

I N T E R I O R S

West End, 127 Main Street, Cairneyhill, Fife KY12 8QX 10 mins from the Forth and Kincardine Road Bridges

Tel: 01383 882222

Royal Highland Show 2019

NSA Scotland Marquee Activities 2019 NSA Scotland marquee a major feature all about sheep at the Royal Highland Show The National Sheep Association Scotland marquee located on avenue O, behind the main grandstand is one of the largest promotional marquees if not the largest at the Royal Highland Show. It is regarded by the Highland show Directors as a main attraction for the 180,000 plus visitors attending the show over four days.

This year the NSA Scotland committee and office bearers will be putting on a great display of all things related to sheep. The marque stands include sheep breed societies; British Wool (formerly British Wool Marketing Board) who are owned by approximately 40,000 sheep farmers in the UK. They collect, grade, market and sell British wool on behalf of their producers to the international wool textile industry for use in flooring, furnishings and apparel; House of Bluebell who produce women’s tailoring and accessories, all made in the Scotland using wool fabrics woven and finished; International Sheep Dog Society and UK sheep ear tag manufactures, Live demonstration include Sybil MacPherson one of the stars of the first series of the award winning BBC’s “This Farming Life” hand clipping a sheep on each day of the show to show visitors the importance of clipping/ shearing sheep from a welfare

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The busy National Sheep Association marquee

point of view; wool spinning; knitting and crook making.

There will be a number of “meet the Sheep Farmer” sessions during the show, where visitors can listen to a short soundbite from them and ask any questions.

This includes NSA office bearers as well as Raymond Irvine and his partner Jenni Mcallister along with Elfie the Valais Blacknose sheep who even has its own facebook page “Selfie with Elfie”.

The Royal Highland Show fleece competition will once again be staged within the marquee with over 70 fleeces entered.

As part of its commitment to the next generation of sheep farmers, NSA Scotland and RHASS will stage a lamb dressing competition on the Sunday afternoon of the Royal Highland Show, where 10 to 26-year-olds will compete in two classes to show their skills at presenting a sheep for a show or sale. Anyone can enter and you can enter at the NSA Scotland marquee.

A new business area was created three years ago which has proved very successful allowing members and guests to sit and have a coffee and catch up with the

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NSA office bearers on duty, which again will continue this year. NSA Scotland feels that the RHS has to be one of the best opportunities for us as a sheep industry to connect with the general public.

NSA Scotland Marquee at 2019 Royal Highland Show Invitation NSA members, farmers and the general public should make a point of visiting the marquee at the show from Thursday 20 to Sunday 23 June and see what activities are on and find out more about what NSA Scotland is doing on behalf of the sheep farmer.

Royal Highland Show 2019

Get crafty in the pavilion Scottish Women’s Institutes return once again to manage the Handcrafts Pavilion for the Royal Highland Show, with its jewel in the crown, the Scottish Handcrafts Championships.

Showcasing Scotland’s finest crafters and with thousands of hours of work on display, this year’s theme is Christmas and more than 500 entries, ranging from intricate bead work to sticks and crooks, will be on display.

This is your handy guide to all of the crafting categories…

Medley of crafts Theme: Christmas Bits and Bobs A table decoration in cold porcelain Apron, any style, sewn A necklace in beadwork

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3D Nativity Scene interpreted in hand made felt A Robin in needlefelting A log basket in any basketry technique Santa sleigh in woodwork Painting of ‘Fireside Scene’, any medium ‘Winter wonderland’, watercolour ‘Christmas Fun’, a mounted photograph ‘The Animals at Christmas’, a mounted photograph A Christmas card A toy made in fur fabric Recycled item A trio of Christmas decorations Three items, three different crafts by the same hand Novice exhibitors Santa’s sack, any technique

Delicate needlework

Crochet Theme: Santa Is Coming Christmas character Christmas stocking embellishments

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Hand Knitting Theme: Carol Singers Child’s jumper, with motif in any technique Hat, mitts and scarf, double knitting

Royal Highland Show 2019 An adult’s wearable item showing a variety of Aran style patterns in Aran weight Wellie socks, any ply Shawl in fine lace knitting Hand Spinning, Weaving and Dyeing Theme: Christmas Colours Hank Shetland yarn, 2-ply for knitting, hand spun from Shetland sheep Three hanks of hand-spun yarn, using different natural fibres and dyes Hank of fancy yarn.

Article in own, homespun Alpaca yarn A throw using any hand weaving technique A cushion in any hand weaving technique Lace and Tatting Theme: Little Extras for Christmas Two napkin rings in tatting of any technique Small item in bobbin lace Christmas decoration

Embroidery Theme: Winter Wonderland Christmas Table runner, freestyle embroidery Traycloth in Hardanger Cross stitch picture Box incorporating stumpwork Patchwork, Appliqué and Quilting Theme: Here comes Christmas Christmas tree skirt Advent calendar “Linus” quilt in machine patchwork (to be donated to ‘Project Linus’) Children Theme “Christmas Fun” Collage of Christmas presents Handmade snowman Party invitation Model of Santa’s Grotto Crooks and walking sticks Neck crook, plain wood head Neck crook, plain horn head Neck crook, fancy horn head Neck crook, fancy wood head

Enhanced needlework to plain handbag

Walking stick, plain wood Walking stick, plain horn head Walking stick, fancy wood head Walking stick, fancy horn head Leg cleek, horn Leg cleek, wood Thumb stick, horn or wood Walking stick, plain buffalo horn Walking stick, fancy buffalo horn Stick, suitable for a lady Half Head Sportsman’s stick

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Walking stick, horn head Walking stick by a novice Judging criteria Judges will be using the following criteria to assess each item.

• Design and use of colour • Sustainability of materials • Workmanship, techniques, finish & presentation • Degree of difficulty

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Royal Highland Show 2019 The prizes The presentation of prizes will take place in the Handcrafts Pavilion on Saturday at 11am, with cash prizes of £10, £6 and £4 offered to the top three entries in each class. A range of twenty special prizes and trophies will also be presented.

Championship Masterclass Prize for Best Overall Exhibit An award of up to £500 presented by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS).

BRCS Perpetual Silver Challenge Quaich for Best Overall Exhibit Reserve Championship Prize Prize of £250 presented by RHASS. E.W. Thomson Memorial Trophy and cash prize for Best Exhibit with special reference to colour and design Presented in memory of the late Miss E.W. Thomson.

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Jean Bruce Cash prize for Best Exhibit in Handweaving, Knitting, Spinning or Crooks from Scottish Crofting counties A sum of money was presented

by The Highland Home Industries Ltd., to provide an annual cash prize representing the free income of the fund.

(Consolidated Prize Fund) .

Agnes F. Bryson Perpetual Challenge Trophy and Cash Prize for the Exhibit of most outstanding merit in the Embroidery classes Presented by Mrs Agnes Bryson, Kilmarnock, together with a sum of money to provide an annual cash prize representing the free income of the fund.

(Consolidated Prize Fund).

Thomas Archibald Memorial Cash Prize and Rosette for Best Shepherd’s Crook, Walking Stick or piece of Woodwork

A sum of money was presented by the daughter of the late Mr. Thomas Archibald to provide an annual cash prize representing the free income of the fund.

(Consolidated Prize Fund).

Perpetual Challenge Silver Cup and Cash Prize for Best Crook or Walking Stick Presented by the Borders Stick Dressers’ Association.

Cash Prize of £25 awarded by RHASS. Mrs Allister Campbell Memorial Trophy and Rosette for Best set of Four Crooks and Sticks Presented on behalf of the late Mr Allister Campbell, Isle of Mull.

The Edinburgh Knitting and Crochet Guild 19801994 Perpetual Challenge Trophy for Innovation and Creativity in Knitting and/or Crochet

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Presented by The Edinburgh Knitting & Crochet Guild.

Jamieson & Smith Prize for Best Exhibit in Class 23 or Article in fine (cobweb) wool, hand knitted Cash prize of £25 presented

by Messrs Jamieson & Smith (Shetland Wool Brokers) Ltd, Lerwick, Shetland Isles.

Mabel Ross Memorial Prize for Best Exhibit of a ‘fancy’ handspun yarn Cash prize of £25, presented by Mrs Rosemary Wilkes, East Lothian.

Scottish Baketmakers’ Circle Prize for Best Exhibit in Basketmaking Cash prize presented by the Scottish Basketmakers’ Circle.

The Madeira Threads Perpetual Trophy for Best Free Machine Embroidery Exhibit Presented by Madeira Threads, Thirsk, North Yorkshire.

Royal Highland Show 2019 The Annette Williamson Memorial Trophy and Cash Prize for Best Woven Item Cash prize of £25 presented

by Mrs. Evelyn R Duncan, Aberdeen.

Edinburgh Lace Club Award and Cash Prize for Best Exhibit of Lace Cash prize of £25.

Jean Parker Prize for Best Exhibit of 2-ply handspun, extra fine Shetland yarn for lace knitting £25 cash prize.

Cash Prize for Best in Patchwork, Applique and Quilting £25 cash prize.

Cash Prize for Best Exhibit in Painting £25 cash prize.

Cash Prize for Best Exhibit in Felt £25 cash prize.

RHET @ the Show, recognising 20 years of RHET The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET), established in 1999 as the educational charity of Royal Highland Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS), has been providing young people in Scotland with the opportunity to visit a local working farm, to understand their local farming community and to see what’s involved in growing and rearing their food.

Schools the length and breadth of Scotland have built strong connections with the work and people of RHET and we continue to be proud of the commitment and dedication of teachers, industry professionals and our volunteers for sharing their enthusiasm for food, farming and the working countryside.

Learning can be fun!

Over the last 20 years we have achieved great things: from the first visit with Ratho Primary School in 1999 to where RHET is today with over 19,000 pupils visiting the countryside each

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year and over 1,500 schools receiving a visit from a volunteer speaker.

To help mark the milestone of our 20th year, George Lawrie, chairman of the RHET board,

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Royal Highland Show 2019 is undertaking a Tractor Tour and visiting a school in each of the 12 Countryside Initiative areas around Scotland. This will take place the week prior to the Royal Highland Show, starting off from the showground on the 12th of June and finishing back at the showground on the 19th of June. The planned route will cover around 600 miles and George will be visiting 2 schools per day.

George aims to raise £10 for every mile travelled and donations towards this goal can be made to the Just Giving page www.rhet.org.uk/tractortour Also accompanying George on his tour is a Highland cow sculpture donated by Kev Paxton from ArtFe which has been made from recycled farm metal.

This will then be auctioned at the Royal Highland Show with proceeds also going to RHET. During the Royal Highland Show RHET offers a jam packed education programme

for children of all ages. Along with a selection of our partners, RHET provides a variety of hands-on activities for children to discover where their food comes from and become more aware of the environment around them. These activities are a combination of bookable or drop-in sessions.

A variety of activities take place both in The RHET Discovery Centre and across the showground. These handson sessions range from getting sticky baking tasty scones, learning about a balanced diet while cooking with fresh ingredients in our cookery theatre or milking Mabel our fibreglass cow. You could learn about harnessing human pedal power to tell a food production story, find out lots of bee facts while visiting the Honey Tent, watch live demonstrations plus much more!

The RHET Discovery Centre is open from 9am to

5pm each day and is open to the public over all four days.

On the Thursday and Friday of the Show we also host school groups who are welcomed

by RHET as they enter the showground. In the past, over 7000 school pupils usually visit over these 2 days.

Many school groups request the option to take a guided tour provided by a RHET volunteer or participate in one of our bookable sessions. If your school wishes to visit the Show

RHET day out at West Adamston Farm by Birkhill

John Kerr Linlithgow

Your dealer for the best range of farm equipment in Central Scotland

Please visit our stand at this year’s Royal Highland Show

Avenue F. Stand 121 01506 842280 07836 527 480 (Andrew) email: andrew@john-kerr.com

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please visit www.rhet.org.uk or see the school group booking section on the Royal Highland Show website. Prices are £44 (per group of up to 33 children) on the Thursday and £39 per group on the Friday.

Also back once more, is the popular RHET Tram Trail Challenge in partnership with Edinburgh Trams, with an iPad up for grabs! Trail maps are available from the main entrance gates, the RHET Discovery Centre or the Rotary Tents.

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Royal Highland Show 2019

Music at the Show The music programme at the 2019 Royal Highland Show has something for every musical taste. From ceilidh to contemporary, jazz to jiving, the stages will come alive with entertaining performances across the four days of the Show.

The Farmers & Farmers Wives Choir will return to the showground for their annual performance at the Royal Highland Show on Saturday 22nd June, taking to the West Stage at 1pm.

Now celebrating an incredible 16 years of sellout performances under their sequined belts, Solid Gold ABBA will perform ABBA’s greatest hits with authentic four-part vocal harmonies, great musicianship and dazzling showmanship that only a true live band can accomplish.

Solid Gold ABBA will take to the West Stage from 4pm on Saturday 22nd June.

Visitors can also catch the West Lothian Schools Pipe Band around the showground

Music at the show

on Thursday 20th June or look forward to musical performances from Got Soul

Choir, Claire Hastings & Aonach Mor and others to be announced.

A look at some of this years exhibitors Abbey Machinery

Another quick year, with Exhibitors starting to gear up for Highland Show 2019 and visitors anticipating what they will see at Scotland’s Premier Show.

Abbey Machinery will have a suite of exciting products on display to help farmers

and contractors to improve labour efficiency and animal performance around Feeding and Slurry Management.

Feed Management: Having the right feeding equipment to cater for a variety of feeding options/situations/ feed types, farm layouts and animal performance requirements is vital. Abbeys has a range of 19 Diet Feeders that are single, twin and TriAuger. They come with a multitude of feed-out, auger styles and feed management options.

Slurry Management: With 37 tanker models to choose from - Standard, Recess, Tandem of Tridem -

4000L to 27,000L sizes. Now with a wide range of filling, pumping and emptying options to reduce labour and minimise environmental concerns.

On Display: Abbey Machinery will have a range of Recess and Tandem Tankers on display. In addition, a suite of Diet Feeders with a variety of feed-out options. And Slurry Applicators to present the slurry in optimally places lines below the crop canopy to reduce smell, improve fertiliser uptake and minimise ammonia evaporation to the atmosphere.

So it’s win win win.

Why not call to the Abbey Machinery Stand and discuss your specific requirements

with one of their team and enjoy some light hospitality at the same time.

American Systems

Squeeze

Crush

At the RHS in 2004 (the first year we exhibited) a wellknown Aberdeenshire farmer bought everything we were exhibiting on the show stand.

Look to the west try Harry West Maelstrom Rear Discharge Spreader

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s -ANURE 3PREADERS s $IET &EEDERS s 'RAIN AND 3ILAGE 4RAILERS s !GRICULTURAL AND #OMMERCIAL "UILDING ALSO Please check out the SEKO RANGE of Diet Feeders & eco line products Tel: 01948 840465 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Harry West (Prees) Ltd Lower Heath, Prees, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 2BT

Royal Highland Show 2019 His full system is still going strong, and he’s bought two further hydraulic crushes from us since. Over the years our wide range of excellently built Pearson USA squeeze crushes and handling systems has satisfied the needs of a wide range of farmers from Highland cattle breeders to large-framed pedigree breeders to sizeable commercial finishing units.

The “TEXAN” full mobile handling system (including fold-away forcing pen) was new at the show in 2018. The “Raging Bull” hydraulic cattle crush is our own design, built in the north of England. We continue to develop other handling products to meet cattle farmers’ needs.

We also import some other interesting cattle products, such as “Quiet Wean” twostage calf weaning nose flaps from Canada and the “No Fly Zone” cattle rub again out of the USA, which has sold well

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into areas afflicted by insect and mastitis problems in the spring and summer. This is a cattle scratching post with its own built-in reservoir which can deploy an organic insecticide.

Later this year we intend to launch our own calving device best-suited to the larger cattle breeder, be it dairy or beef. We are also working on a heatdetection system which works in a different way to anything else on the market. Watch this space! www.squeezecrush.com; tel 01423 322326 / 07770 457453; based in North Yorkshire.

A. Proctor Group

Proctors of Blairgowrie has been occupying the same site on the corner of Avenue Q and 6th Avenue at the Royal Highland Show for more than 40 years.

Over that time, like all other companies, the business has adapted to meet the prevailing market conditions and although still known by many as ‘the insulation and ventilation people’, the company has moved on and focusses now on several different sectors.

Since 1999 when Proctors bought ARM Buildings Ltd, the specialist pig building and equipment company based in Staffordshire, there has been steady growth as ARM has increased market share. This means that pig building sales are now the biggest agricultural market sector for Proctors. The last 15 years have seen many innovations in pig buildings mainly concentrated on improving the quality of the

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buildings in terms of efficiency, ease of use and ultimately pig performance.

Livestock and potato storage ventilation systems are still important to Proctors.

Many visitors to the show will be familiar with the CalfCare ‘poly tube’ which has sold so well over the years to improve ventilation for calves and older cattle.

Market demands and improved returns have resulted in a renewed interest in Potato store ventilation with many growers now convinced of the advantages of more positive ventilation of potato boxes by using ‘Drying Walls’ or ‘Suction Walls’ combined with ambient or refrigerated cooling systems.

Construction materials are the largest market sector for Proctor’s with the main sector being materials for controlling heat and moisture movement through building structures.

Royal Highland Show 2019 This includes a number of very recognisable products especially Roofshield the market leading, world class roofing membrane.

Always open to new ideas we look forward to another Highland Show to hear from the market what is needed next!

Balgownie

Balgownie is a company which has served the Northeast farming industry for more than 100 years and today is a

major force in the agricultural, construction and ground care sectors.

With modern, purpose-built depots at Thainstone Business Park, Inverurie, and Markethill Industrial Estate, Turriff, the business continues to be a major supplier of machinery to farming, construction, ground care and domestic customers, with a range of leading franchises, including the full range of Case IH, Bobcat, Ifor Williams trailers, Pottinger grassland equipment, Muthing & Woods flail mowers, Maschio ploughs and grass toppers, Iseki compact tractors & mowers, Sulky fertiliser spreaders and seed drills, Doosan excavators and ground moving equipment and many more.

Balgownie has the honour of being a Royal Warrant Holder as a supplier of farm machinery to the Queen’s Balmoral Estate.

Agricultural telehandlers from Bobcat are a big seller for the company with its newly launched TL43.80HF AGRI proving popular – there is an extensive range to suit all needs, offering excellent value for money, a three year full manufacturer’s warranty as standard, with an option to extend to 5 years and currently 0% finance options available.

Balgownie are the main dealer for Case IH in Aberdeenshire, offering tractors, combines and balers.

Case IH are a brand renowned throughout the world and the fourth biggest seller in the UK. The customers of Balgownie are supported by an excellent service and parts team. Phil Finnie, service manager, and 15 fully trained engineers, along with Alan Robertson, Agri and construction parts manager and his team, understand how

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important it is to keep machines well maintained for reliability.

In the event of breakdowns, the team act quickly to source the correct parts, to get the engineers out to site and get machines moving again.

BDC Systems

New moisture monitoring system takes centre stage on BDC Systems’ stand on Avenue C.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 The ability to accurately and automatically check moisture content of wet grain whilst it passes through a grain drying plant has long been the challenge for grain drier suppliers. Several manufacturers have in the past attempted to find a solution to this challenge with varying results.

After many years of research and development, BDC Systems Limited now has its own system which has already attracted a lot of interest and a number of firm orders since it’s launch earlier this year.

Using bespoke sampling units designed and developed

by BDC systems, grain is taken from the both incoming (wet) elevator and outgoing (dry) elevators on a plant. These samples are then processed through a multi-chamber duct incorporating a Sinar moisture probe specifically designed for this application. Live readings

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showing the moisture content of both samples in a percentage format are displayed on a screen along with a graph showing the moisture trend.

Historical data is also stored in the system’s memory for future reference.

The MMS, as it is known, can be linked in with BDC’s grain drier control panel and the data can be remotely viewed on devices such as mobile phones. The system can be retro-fitted to any grain drying system, subject to a site survey.

Matt Grainge, BDC’s technical manager and head of product development commented: “Following extensive on-site testing at several plants around the country, we are confident that MMS is producing accurate real time data. This information can be used to adjust drier settings which will save money and ensure

grain goes into storage at its optimum moisture content.

The ultimate aim it to automate the entire process.”

Everything is now really convenient: we have the sampling point next to the grainstore office and the control screen in the office next to the other grainstore control panels.”

BD Supplies

B D Supplies are a leading supplier of Animal husbandry and Hoof trimming equipment.

They can supply anything hoof trimming from a basic knife right through to the

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hoof trimming chutes which won them Gold in the Royal Highland Technical Innovation Award 2016. They also offer a comprehensive range of animal husbandry equipment.

With expansion into a thriving Biomass Wood Pellet delivery business, becoming fully BSL and Hetas registered and offering both bagged and bulk deliveries into the domestic and commercial market. With the investment in two lorries specifically designed to deliver bulk pellets in their optimum form has definitely been worthwhile for our expanding company.

Agriculture is still a huge part of our business and we are always looking at bringing new products to the UK market and promoting products we feel have a benefit in the UK farming industry.

At the 2019 Royal Highland Show we will be showcasing a large range of our products,

Royal Highland Show 2019 offering customers, both old and new, to come onto our stand and have a look at what we have to offer which may help them in their day to day running of their farming enterprise.

We pride ourselves on customer service and to us ‘the customer does come first’.

Bomford Turner

Remote controlled flail mowers and Cultivation Machinery.

Bomford Turner prides itself on quality and innovation - delivering durable and productive machines that are a firm favourite with farmers, contractors and governmental departments.

Key products include: Reach arm boom mowers, Reach arm boom mower attachments, Remote controlled flail mowers, Flail mowers and rotary toppers, Forestry mulchers and Soil preparation machinery.

Bryce Post Drivers

A leader in green maintenance technology for more than 100 years, Bomford Turner is recognised around the world for its high-performance Hedge-cutters, Boom mowers,

As is the norm Bryce will be featuring upgrades to existing machines - plus the introduction of something different.

Over the years Bryce have won countless prestigious Awards for their post drivers, and now with a proven formula for high performance and durability, the focus is on producing post drivers that are as near bombproof as possible.

Like everything in agriculture nowadays, performance and output is the key to moving forward with efficiency. Good labour is scarce so getting more done in the shortest time with less man hours available is what it is all about. Jock says “ today we have sprayers with 40mt booms and hill men need livestock handling systems that allow high throughput of animals with speed, safety and efficiency, and that’s what we are doing with Bryce post drivers.”

Bryce have post

Ideal for: - Clearing woodland rides and bracken - Cutting fire breaks in heather on moorland - Contract and clearance work for gorse and rubbish Made in Britain

Foster's range of heavy duty ROTARY SLASHERS and SUPER SCRUB CUTTERS are the ideal machine for the clearance of gorse, heather, bracken and rushes.

From 40HP to 150HP+ there is a machine to suit your requirements.

- Cutting wetland rushes

GG2000 Super Scrubcutter fitted with cutting chains and rear deflector

For a leaflet or more info and advice contact: Sales Tel : 07901 338473 email: sales@fostersalescompany.co.uk website: www.fostersalescompany.co.uk 76

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drivers now that will drive strainers in hard ground in less than 60 seconds and press stobs in rather than hit them with multiple strokes of the hammer. Not only are these machines much quicker but they reduce wear and tear, as bigger hammers mean less strokes which of course means less wear.

One-man tracked machines are increasing in popularity amongst the contractor sector and there will come a time when these 2nd hand units will find their way into farmers’ hands. “Everyone is looking for ways of making the job easier - but only if it doesn’t give you grief” Jock adds. It’s easy in today’s hi-tech world to get sucked into electronics and the like. That costs more money and then the big reliability factor kicks in when you may be left high and dry in the middle of nowhere with a dysfunctional machine – going

Royal Highland Show 2019 down that route isn’t in the mindset of Bryce.

BVL Group

It’s 40 years since BvL introduced the first vertical feed mixer wagon to the market, during which time the company has grown to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of diet mixers.

Today, the BvL V-MIX range of diet feeders covers a wide range of machines, available in single, twin and triple augers variants and in capacity from 3.5m3 up to 46m3. A wide range of specifications and options are available on each machine, allowing them to be tailored to exactly meet the needs of all types of farm and livestock.

At the heart of all BvL mixers are the powerful mixing augers, made from high quality steel with Hardox leading edges and adjustable knives. Large twin and triple auger versions also incorporate mixing wedges in the mixing hopper. Between them, these features ensure that the ration is thoroughly mixed and mix quality consistently maintained.

A unique feature of all BvL diet mixers is the patented EDS (Exact Dosing System) discharge. This is designed to provide consistent, even forage discharge that is deposited in a loose swath. With doors on both the left and right hand side of the feeder, this provides complete feeding flexibility and even allows for the mix to be deposited on both sides simultaneously. A wide range of additional discharge door options are available, as is a discharge conveyor on all models.

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A further option unique to BvL is the availability of special coatings and hardened components for where the mixer is going to be used with more abrasive, higher dry matter rations, making this option particularly suited for beef cattle rations and large dairy herds.

BvL can be found in Avenue D at the Royal Highland Show or you can contact BvL’s UK specialist for Scotland and northern England, Paul McUrich, on 07810 040100 / paulmcurich@ gmail.com, or John Molton who covers the south of England on 07947 719985 / john.molton@bvl-group.de. For further information visit www. bvl-group.de.

C-Dax Systems

Weed Wiping implement.

Designed by C-Dax who are based in Palmerston North in the North Island of New Zealand.

It is designed to operate in a wide range of conditions to efficiently control a variety of weeds. Two different sizes are now available, both come as trailed units, the original having a effective wiping width of 2.35 metres and the Ne Winged Eliminator which The C-Dax Eliminator is a particularly simple but highly advanced offers an overall effective wiping width of 4.3 metres. Both Eliminators ( or Weedlickers as they are also known) have a heavy duty galvanized frame and feature a pressurized and patented chemical feed system to ensure that both ends of the wiper are fed equally with chemical, irrespective of the angle of terrain on which the Eliminator is being operated. This makes

the C-dax Eliminator unique to all other wipers on the market. The New Winged Eliminator not only offers an effective wiping width of 4.3 metres but comes with new self angling wings with dual or individual left or right wing operation to allow easy weed control on banks and edges of waterways. Chemical is fed to the wool covered wiping arms which are strategically angled to the forward direction thereby providing increased contact time with vegetation.

Natural wool is chosen for its ability to retain a high capacity of chemical and to optimize chemical transfer to the vegetation. The amount of chemical which is pumped to the wiping arms is determined by an electronic controller which the operator adjusts according to the level of weed infestation being treated.

The 2.35 metre and 4.3 metre units are both available with a fully integrated 50 litre tank producing a completely self contained unit, alternatively the Eliminator may be supplied with chemical from a remote tank mounted on as ATV or other vehicle. Application rates are between 3.9L/Ha and 40L/ Ha. Wiping speed typically is between 10-12 kph.

Claas UK

The latest addition to the ROLLANT fixed chamber round baler range, the ROLLANT 540, features new rollers and a stronger chassis, with the choice of net or film wrapping. A new drive concept and outstanding ease of maintenance ensure high performance and a long service life.

The redesigned baling chamber on the ROLLANT 540

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has 15 rollers and makes bales with a diameter of 1.25 m and width of 1.22 m. The serrated profile of the rollers maintains optimum bale rotation even under moist conditions. The rollers are fitted with specially hardened 50mm stub shafts, which are bolted to the roller body and can be individually replaced if necessary. The rollers which have the most load are fitted with new double race bearings for a longer service life.

The tailgate closing rams are horizontally mounted, resulting in high baling pressures. For maximum bale density, pressure of up to 180 bar can be applied to the rams.

Options include the MPS II system, where three of the chamber rollers pivot into the chamber for additional bale compression, early bale rotation, and a perfectly uniform bale shape.

The baling rollers are driven from the left side of the machine and each roller has direct drive, resulting in uniform force distribution to the rollers with a lower power requirement.

The rotor and main drive have 1.25-inch drive chains, and the tailgate rollers are driven with a 1-inch chain.

The chains are lubricated via an eccentric pump and all the lubricating nipples of the MPS and tailgate are combined on the right-hand side. A central lubrication option is also available.

On ROTO-CUT versions the chopping mechanism has 15 knives, with a theoretical cut length of 70 mm. The knives can be swung in from the cab, and should a blockage occur, the cutting floor can be lowered with a command from the control terminal.

Dal-Bo UK

Royal Highland Show 2019 Dal-Bo broadens its product offering.

In line with market requirements, Dal-Bo UK are now offering a mounted “Farmer Disc” cultivator in 3, 3.5 and 4m working width.

A disc has the advantage of a complete cut at relatively shallow working depth with the added benefit of good mixing of crop residues.

The “Farmer Disc” comprises 2 rows of 520 x 6mm scalloped discs with rear mounted options of either a cage roller or T ring roller which control the working depth. The discs are mounted with rubber protection to the frame and each disc has double sealed bearings.

Dal-Bo UK commented, “We see the “Farmer Disc” having appeal across a range of situations, both primary and secondary cultivation and the incorporation of crop residues prior to ploughing”

A 3m model with T ring roller will be displayed on the stand at this year’s Royal Highland Show.

David L Douglas

David L Douglas is a Scottish based family business. We are immensely proud of our strong family values throughout our company.

In an age of mass-market, international manufacturing, we pride ourselves on being a first-class Scottish manufacturing business that

combines technology with traditional skills to bring our clients a truly individual solution – the very best in fitted furniture that will last generations.

At the heart of all beautiful interiors is great design; that is why we employ the very best people. Our in-house designers are some of the most talented and highly skilled in the country and, most importantly, empathetic towards your needs.

They are here to work with you and ensure your expectations are surpassed. In short, our designers are the people who take your brief and transform your ideas into reality. We often work hand-in hand with our clients’ wider design team including architects, interior designers and surveyors to ensure the design integrity is consistent across the entire project.

For the past year David L Douglas has been the only AGA

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Retail Partner for Fife, Perth ,Kinross, Tayside & Angus.

Having had a strong working relationship with AGA for the past 25 years, it was an easy decision for David L Douglas and AGA to work together in a more official manner. With our large showroom being able to accommodate 5 working AGA Cookers, which include a 5 oven Dual Control, a 3 oven Total Control, a 3 Series 1000, AGA 60 & a Masterchef XL. We welcome everyone along to our cookery demonstrations and we also offer one-to-one cookery demonstrations (must be booked in advance).

To find out more about David L Douglas and to see a selection of our work you can visit their showroom in Cairneyhill or visit our website www.davidldouglas.com We are also attending this year’s Fife Show, The Royal Highland Show & The GWCT Scottish Game Fair.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 David Ritchie Implements

in three directions within the same unit. The integral EID system makes data collection much easier and quicker.

The Combi Clamp, Stock Cube and Calving Gate work alongside cattle crushes, mobile cattle crates, field gates and friction bale accumulators making just a small part of the product range to be seen on the Ritchie stand. A warm welcome awaits you. www.ritchie-d.co.uk Davidson’s Animal Feeds

The extensive range of farmer proven agricultural implements from this six generation Scottish family run business, will be proudly displayed at the Royal Highland show 2019. A business celebrating 149 years of trading, has had to adapt its products to farmer demands whilst meeting ever changing stringent manufacturing legislation. Ritchie is one of a few companies whose proud heritage can be found in agricultural equipment still performing on farms even when the machine is well over 50 years old!.

To meet the need of modern farming, Richie’s range now includes technically advanced animal monitoring equipment incorporated into stock men are friendly machines. All farm animals are catered for with advanced handling products from the Ritchie range including Highland and continental specific equipment.

A New Beef Monitor enables the average live weights to be taken on cattle every time the beast drinks, updating the cloud based software thus reducing time, labour and stress for both cattle and stockman. The data provided has proved to reduce incorrect weights at the point of slaughter.

The original Draft Pro 3, with guillotine or swing gates reduces the space requirement in a sheep race, decreases time for stock handling and reduces stress from both shepherd and livestock by enabling shepherds to weigh and draft 80

comfort, nutrition and hygiene has seen their rolling 365 day milk yields rise to in excess of 12,000kg in recent years.

The Watsons have worked closely with the Company’s Dairy Specialist John Rogers, and depending on the stage of lactation, the milking cows are fed a 16% protein high energy meal, especially devised by Davidson’s. This is also fed through the robots and out of parlour feeders. Average daily milk yields recorded for the competition, stand at 42.5kg with butterfat and protein percentages 3.76% and 3.16% respectively.

Deutz-Fahr

Davidson’s Animal Feeds at the RHS (Stand NO 522) Davidson’s Animal Feeds staff are looking forward to welcoming customers, both old and new, to their Stand at the 2019 RHS. Visitors will be given free, professional advice on beef, sheep and dairy nutrition from Davidson’s fully –trained advisors, as well as having the opportunity to take part in an exciting competition.

A separate marquee housing pens of sheep and lambs, all at different stages of growth will be on the Stand. Visitors will be asked to guess the weight of lambs in the last pen, and to ascertain now much weight has been gained from start to finish.

Davidson’s Sheep Specialist, Steven Turnbull, will be on hand to give advice on feeding for maximum weight, health and welfare and to discuss the various sheep feeds prepared and sold by the Company.

There will be the usual Davidson’s welcoming hospitality marquee, where light refreshments will be available. The success of Agriscot’s Dairy Farmer of the Year, Hugh and Alistair Watson of Laigh Tarbeg, who are longstanding customers of Davidson’s, will be the main feature this year on the Stand.

They have achieved unbelievable success with a flying herd, and their commitment to cow health,

Deutz-Fahr extends its product offering in the UK market with the new 5D Keyline – a range of tractors from 65 to 97 hp aimed at a range of sectors including the stockman and loader market, specification and size would also suit the amenity sector. Main features include large, flat platform cab with opening side windows and high visibility roof, 40 km/h 30 x 15 transmission and true 4 wheel braking with oil immersed front disc brakes.

This new product range will feature at the RHS 2019.

The established 6120-6140 models from 126 to 143hp appeal to all sectors from loader work and grass harvesting to transport and tillage applications. Key features include – Deutz T4F four cyl engines, intelligent powershift and CVT transmissions, high capacity hydraulic systems, new cab and axle suspension configurations and the latest Agrosky systems to manage all precision farming applications.

The full range will be on display at the RHS2019.

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Deutz-Fahr will also be exhibiting models from the higher hp 6 Series – 12 models with features including full auto power shift and CVT transmissions, adaptive front axle suspension, Maxivision cab with Infocentre pro and Agrosky ready availability, new heavier duty front linkage and a host of new auxiliary hydraulic functions. The range is powered by a Deutz T4F engine with SCR and a passive DPF system; the engine compartment and cab are completely separated, reducing noise, heat and vibrations into the cab. The entire range has been designed and styled in partnership with Giugiaro for a distinctive look.

We are exhibiting models to suit all farm sizes and applications, all of which are offered with 0% retail finance packages. The Deutz-Fahr Shop will open with the new branded merchandise and with special show offers.

DGPS4U

Looking for a reliable specialist company to handle the ‘in the field’ technology side of your business? Then you could be joining the many people who have become satisfied customers of DGPS4U. The modern sensors now fitted to agricultural machinery have created the ability to harvest a huge amount of data, and the ability to use it for accurate processing and recording of many things including yield, fertiliser, seed, and chemical spray rates that can be utilised to improve the natural potential of the field.

With many years of specialist knowledge of the industry and direct links to the product manufacturers and technical developers,

Royal Highland Show 2019 DGPS4U has developed the best equipment ranges for all budgets. With reliable solutions to help stop the systems falling redundant in a short period of time, we try and ensure you get the best value for your investment. Our ambition is to give you higher profitability with less environmental impact - that’s good for everyone!

DGPS4U supply a large variety of products to help those involved in agriculture including: • Hand held mobile GPS systems ideal for survey and positioning work in rugged environments. The user friendly systems offer a wide range of features and cover applications like agriculture, forestry, surveying and mining.

• Multiple camera and monitor systems that can have bespoke fitments to integrate with and improve on original manufacturer fitted items.

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• Full ‘in the field’ and ‘back at base’ reporting/monitoring/ guidance systems that can be customised to allow boom, spray, seed, speed controls and many more amazing functions.

• A variety of RTK satellite navigation systems and antenna including the V smart combined DGPS & Antenna Software systems for viewing and processing and storing collected data like the “award winning’ Jethro!

Call DGPS4U or visit the website today at www.dgps4U. com .

Dieci Telehandlers

Maximum comfort with New GD Range Cabs Styled by Giugiaro Design the new Agri Plus 42.7 GD and Agri Star 35.6 GD cab has seen a complete redesign.

With a futuristic design, derived from the automotive industry, the new cab achieves maximum comfort and ease of use for the operator. Welcomed by a soft touch interior, the operator benefits from extra leg room, fully adjustable armrests and steering column.

The instrument panel, backlit switches and new joystick control sit comfortably with the fully adjustable and heated seat, which also has three suspension settings for ultimate comfort.

With advanced research into fluid dynamics, the new air conditioning system circulates air more evenly than any other telehandler model and the double air filters keep the operator protected against dust and odors, the sound absorbing

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roof incorporates six air vents, in addition to an openable rear windscreen and electric side windows to assist with air circulation.

The newly designed joystick incorporates forward and reverse selections for easier, more practical and hands-on directional control whilst maneuvering; and the new 7” LED display ensures the operator can monitor all work and safety parameters.

Additional to the operator comfort, the New GD range of telehandlers include many more advancements, with new chassis and boom designs and additional control features. Dieci will be exhibiting these new Telehandlers at the 2019 Royal Highland Show. Contact your local dealer or visit www.dieci.com for more information.

Farmplan

Royal Highland Show 2019 Integrated software and technology for an evolving diversified business Come and visit us at this year’s Royal Highland Show to find out how our range of solutions can help you manage multiple enterprises or just one facet. From cropping and livestock to business and accounts, we’ve got you covered! Read on to find out how we helped a business in Wales.

Like many farming businesses, the 1,200ha Penllyn Estate has changed considerably in recent years, with farming just part of the overall diversified business, which now also includes a large composting business, accommodation, storage and other non-agricultural businesses.

Having previously used an accounts software package that was becoming increasingly unsuitable for the business, the decision was made five years ago to adopt Farmplan’s Gatekeeper,

Business Manager and Earnie payroll software.

“The business is constantly evolving,” says owner John Homfray, “but since changing to Farmplan and Business Manager it’s very easy to constantly monitor and call up past financial data. It completely governs the internal workings of the estate and we use it for every facet of the business.”

For farm manager Damien Burnell, one of the great strengths of Gatekeeper is the ability it provides to incorporate and utilise agronomic or precision farming data, generated both by themselves and from outside providers, such as their agronomist Dai Llewellyn, who also uses Gatekeeper.

“It makes it extremely simple and easy to record and implement recommendations and applications,” he explains.

“Having walked the crops and inputted his recommendations into his iPad, Dai will then

subsequently email over his recommendations, which I can then synchronise with Gatekeeper.”

“We have a lot of plans for the future, and one of the great benefits of the software Farmplan offers is that it will enable us to separately manage these new and existing business operations within the one integrated software package, and will play an important role in the development of these new enterprises,” concludes John.

Fleming Agri Products

This year Fleming Agri Products will be once again showcasing their extensive

range of Products at the 179th Royal Highland Show.

Flemings are regular exhibitors at this premier agricultural event. ”We still consider The Royal Highland of prime importance to us as it generates a huge interest in our product from a wide number of sectors , primarily agriculture but also groundscare, smallholders , estate management and various others, all of which are catered for in our ever expanding product portfolio.” says Fleming Agri MD Jonathan Lecky.

The company is currently expanding with the construction of a new 28,000sq/ft facility underway at their base in Newbuildings, Northern Ireland.

This facility will be mainly used to produce the larger wheeled equipment, sales of which continue to grow both in the UK and Ireland and with new export markets being developed the

Edward & Catriona Penty: www.squeezecrush.com

01423 322326 / 07770 457453 (E) / 07900 674383 (C) www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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Royal Highland Show 2019 company feels there is great potential to continue the growth of the overall business which currently employs 115 staff.

The construction of this project commenced at the beginning of January and is scheduled for completion this autumn.

Flemings will have a large selection of equipment on display including toppers, bale handling, muck handling equipment and a selection of trailers from their ever growing range. Customers are invited to visit the stand where they will have the opportunity to view the equipment and also speak to Area Sales Manager David Watters and other members of the Fleming Sales Team for information about the product and Fleming’s dealer network.

If you require additional information on any Fleming product this is available online at www.fleming-agri.co.uk or speak to a sales team member on 028 71342637.

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Foster Sales Company

Foster Sales Company is a family owned and run British manufacturer of agricultural machinery and implements.

Mike Drewery is the current MD and his son Adam is the Sales Manager.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our product and our personal backup and service with our dealers and end-user customers.

We supply our machines through a dealer network across the UK; and Scotland is a very important and popular area for our product.

We specialise in a range of Pasture Toppers; Rotary Slashers; and Scrub Cutters, from topping grass to cutting mountains! Our Super Scrubcutters have been specially designed, tested and proven in the most difficult terrain the UK has to offer.

These machines are fitted with cutter chains which bounce out of the way of unruly rocks and stones, whilst still making a fine finish of clearing gorse and whins; bracken and bramble; and gnarly heather on moorland. We have a lot of Estates who use the machine on grouse moors and for cutting fire breaks.

We also make Yard Scrapers for the rear linkage and front of Skid Steer, Tractors and Telehandlers. Bale Handlers and Spikes are one of our more popular products given their tough construction and innovative features. We make a 4 and 6 tonne Trailer which

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have proven popular all year round. Our Forage Boxes (for feeding clamp silage) are the only ones left made in the UK. Our range of products will be on show in our usual corner position in the machinery avenues where we look forward to meeting customers old and new.

Greencrop

Greencrop have introduced a new range of budget irrigation pump sets, including economy diesel engines and irrigation pumps to drive a single hose reel irrigator for rain gun or boom. These pumps are ideal for drip or tape irrigation,

Royal Highland Show 2019 where existing pump sets are over capacity for these applications.

We offer two models, the GCEP51WIR and GCEP75WIR, with bunded tanks and control panels as standard.

The GCEP51WIR unit is powered by a water cooled Perkins 404D22 (TIER 111) 51hp 4 cylinder with a Rovatti F43K80-90/3E pump, which is ideal for running drip or tape irrigation but still be able to run one irrigator.

The GCEP75WIR unit is powered by a water cooled Iveco F32MNSX00.00 (TIER 111A) 75hp 4 cylinder engine direct coupled to a Caprari MEC-MR 65-2/4A 1 - centrifugal multiple-stage pump with horizontal shaft (Q: 64.67 m /h H: 109 m).

Both have as standard the following specification.

Control box model Elcos CEM250 (standard control & protection)

Flow switch Manual priming pump Delivery butterfly valve Roof to protect the engine from rain Special bunded chassis internal capacity 800 liters Lockable fuel cap Wheels 11.5/80 with mudguards Options: Suction and delivery fittings Electric primer Acoustic lockable engine cabinet. 73db @ 7m GSM control with auto primer.

Greencrop manufacture a range of silent pump sets for larger growers. We also supply the Elite range of hose reel irrigators in conjunction with the standard ST and MDT range from Irrimec covering a range of sizes from 40/110 to 135/770.

Lay flat hose and front and rear mounted hose reelers, plus pipes and fittings complement our clean water product range.

We are sole importer of Wam Sepcom slurry and digestate separators, for farms and AD plants. Also a full range of slurry and dirty water handling equipment and our highly recommended high speed 1000lt bunded fuel bowser with a 220lt Adblue unit.

Further details on www. greencrop.co.uk Harry West

The West Dual Spreader is 40 Years old.

Hidden in North Shropshire woodland is the pleasantly situated works of Harry

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West (Prees) Ltd where the successful West farm machinery is produced.

Way back in 1966, the same year as the England World Cup victory, founder and present Chairman, Harry West, started a fabrication unit to meet the needs of the local agricultural community.

“In its formative years the company specialised in light fabrication and repair work of machinery for the local community. Through my experience as an agricultural engineer, the company began turning its attention to the development of new and innovative products”. Harry West. Chairman The company’s first Dual Spreader was introduced in 1979, heralding a new range of purpose made machinery developed with the busy farmer in mind.

The award winning West Dual Spreader as gone from

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Royal Highland Show 2019 strength to strength and developed over the years to suit modern farming practices were the unique design allows precision spreading of all types of farm waste/manure.

The West Dual Spreader remains a firm favourite in all types of farming 40 years after its introduction. sales@harrywest.co.uk 01948 840465 Hi Spec Engineering

The Hi-Spec Engineering stand at the Royal Highland Show will concentrating on the extensive range of diet feeders in addition to the muck and slurry handling

machinery manufactured by the company.

For spreading solid muck, on display will be the unique XCEL 1250 rear discharge spreader which uses a combination of rotary chains with flails to achieve a good break-up of material, which is then spread by a pair of spinning discs.

Also on display will be a tanker from the Hi-Spec SA-R (Single-Axle Recessed) tanker range. These popular tankers feature a stepped axle to reduce overall height and are fitted with commercial brakes, a Jurop vacuum pump and Vogelsang Exactacut macerator. The wide range of options available include a Turbofill high capacity filling system, Autofill, anti-lock braking, GPS and a wide range of dribble, trailing shoe of injector disc applicators.

From the wide range of diet feeders available will be a V12

vertical feeder, complete with a 36 in feed-out conveyor. The Hi-Spec Vertical Auger range is available in both single and twin auger variants with sizes from 7m3 up to 32m3 and use a low pitch mixing and chopping auger fitted with eight blades that creates a simple cycle action. A specific feature is its ability to quickly and efficiently incorporate complete bales into the mix, which also allows the Vertical Auger mixer to be used with lower horsepower tractors.

Also on display will be a K36 Kompactor Push-Off trailer. The Kompactor features a hydraulically operated headboard powered by a triple hydraulic ram system, that can be used to compact material such as woodchip and grass or maize silage, so increasing the load carried by up to 40%.

The headboard can completely empty the trailer in as little as 30 seconds. Because the load is pushed off and so avoids the need to tip the trailer body, the Kompactor.

JD Pipes

JDP is one of the UK’s leading distributors of civil and drainage products, but we’re much more than just a merchant.

Over time, environmental legislation and other demands placed upon farming communities have led to change and diversification. Whether it is arable, livestock, horticulture or aquaculture, farming is a challenging business.

At JDP we have continued to diversify our product range to respond to these changes and continue to grow share in this market because JDP is recognised as a specialist in the 86

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supply of high quality product systems that offer cost effective solutions for agriculture, horticulture and aquaculture.

We provide a comprehensive product range fully equipped for the agricultural industry including; surface water drainage, irrigation systems, septic tanks and livestock products.

With over 15,000 products stocked through 26 branches and online, JDP are able to provide all your project needs from one source. With fast dependable delivery from a national distribution network, we are always close to your project and on hand for expert advice and product knowledge.

No matter what the requirement, large or small, JDP is the first port of call for the farmer, offering fast, friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable customer focused service.

Come and visit our stand at this year’s Highland Show!

John Kerr Farm Equipment John Kerr Farm Equipment, Central Scotland’s well established farm machinery dealer will once again be exhibiting at this year’s Royal Highland Show. You will find us on stand 121, Avenue F, where we have been based for many years. We will be displaying a large range of implements from prestige brands such as JCB, Deutz Fahr, Same Tractors, Amazone, Krone, McHale, Fleming, Marshall etc. We have technical experts on hand to assist you with any queries you may have, and we are always keen to do a deal on the day. We hope that you can find the time to visit us over the four days.

Joskin

Royal Highland Show 2019 On this year’s Royal Highland Show, the Belgian based company Joskin will be present with four different machines, including its new concept Modulo “Advantage”.

Recently presented at the SIMA show in Paris, the 11,000 l tanker Modulo “Advantage” with the 7,5 m Pendislide Basic won the price “Machine of the year, 2019” in the livestock breeding category.

The “Advantage” series is a new concept developed by the Joskin Group with the aim to provide farmers with fully equipped high technical machines to the price of standard ones. The aim of the development has likewise been to prove that a cheaper machine does not necessarily signify bad quality. The result of the “Advantage” series derives from a long-term investment where also the possibility to mass produce

the series has helped lowering manufacturing costs.

“We are glad to be able to provide farmers around the world with high quality machines and also to have created a concept that accommodates the smaller as well as the larger farmer.

There should be a solution for everyone, which is why we have created the “Advantage” series – fully tested and equipped machines to the price of standards.”

On the Joskin stand there will be a Modulo “Advantage”, a Trans-KTP 22/50 dump trailer (22 t), a BETIMAX RDS7500 galvanized twin axle livestock trailer, and a Tornado 3 T5011/11V muck spreader (11 m ).

The company Joskin’s strength lies in its long experience of the agricultural world and is constantly improving, and developing the machines to meet demands from customers.

Kattrak International

Kattrak International Limited formed in 2004 by Peter MC Laughlin has grown over the years to become a house hold name in the plant and agricultural industry for supplying low ground pressure tracked carriers used and new machines both for sales and hire purposes and along with our repair side and adaptions to suit many applications.

In 2017 seen the company set up a parts department that has grown to supply many parts that others cannot source to customers all over the world and with this growth we have a

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new parts department store built at our existing depot in Ayrshire for any part enquiries contact Rustem or email info@kattrak. com .

More new appointments for the company in 2018 was former sales manager Gareth Mc Laughlin being appointed joint Director along with his parents Peter and Isabel the new appointment gives Gareth the appetite to invest in new products with Hidromek range of equipment being the first and proving to be getting off to a good start with many sales been established to many construction firms so far the latest being 2 new 14 ton excavators being ordered by Clyde Coast Contracts as part of there 40 years in business with the choice of a strong product joining a strong family run construction and civils business www.clydecoastcontracts.co.uk Another new appointment seen Blair Mc Millan joining

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Royal Highland Show 2019 the team ex Caterpillar employee with his main aim to focus on the new Hidromek range through out Scotland and establish new business for many other parts of the business along the way.

Overall Kattrak thrives to achieve many new opportunities in the future with our slogan being (WE ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACKS) and many thanks to all that has worked with us along the way.

Kawasaki Motors UK

Kawasaki Motors UK will be displaying their full range of MULE and ATV products at the

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Royal Highland Show with the assistance of local Kawasaki dealers. The latest Kawasaki MULE range features petrol and diesel models that are built tough and suited to your needs. The hard working MULE PRO-DXT is the choice for many professionals thanks to its durability, comfort and convenience. The high torque diesel engine delivers both performance and economy, just like the other diesel MULE models. The MULE PRO-DX is a two seater counterpart of the DXT and next in line is the new for 2019 Kawasaki MULE-PRO-MX delivering all the rugged, reliable and adaptable attributes that Kawasaki’s MULE utility vehicles are justifiably famous for. The new Kawasaki MULE PRO-MX relies not only on a torque laden 700cc CVT singlecylinder equipped engine but also benefits from the Shinari design philosophy. The smaller

MULE SX is compact and capable and with the traction offered by the MULE SX 4x4, it really is the ‘go anywhere’ vehicle.

Kawasaki ATVs come in the form of the high performance Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS and its smaller sibling the Brute Force 300.

The more you experience the Kawasaki Brute Force range, the better they get.

Kramer

Under the traditional brand name Kramer, Kramer-Werke GmbH develops and produces compact wheel loaders, telescopic wheel loaders and telehandlers with

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high manoeuvrability, offroad capability and efficiency for agriculture. In the early years of more than the 90-year company history, the company quickly made a name for itself as a manufacturer of tractors.

To tie in with the initial success of these company years, since 2012 machines are once again being distributed to agriculture under the Kramer brand name via an own distribution network.

This year the model range was extended by three more machines (KT407, KT429 and KL60.8). With the launch of the new telehandlers KT407 and KT429, the company now offers a total of eleven models between six and nine metres lift height which are equipped with numerous innovative details for professional agriculture. The Kramer KL60.8 also impresses with maximum stability, manoeuvrability and constant payload thanks to its time-tested and proven undivided vehicle

Royal Highland Show 2019 frame. As with all models of the 8-series, all-wheel, crab and front wheel steering are available as standard. With a bucket tipping load of 6,100 kg and a stacking payload of 4,200 kg, the Kramer KL60.8 opens up a new size class in the Kramer wheel loader product portfolio.

Krone UK

Krone UK Ltd, are a leading supplier of forage harvesting equipment who understand the importance of effective aftersales. As a leader of innovation Krone UK Ltd will be exhibiting at this year’s

Royal Highland Show a range of machines demonstrating their understanding of forage harvesting.

Krone will be celebrating 25 years of BiG Pack large square balers and will be displaying the latest in BiG pack technology.

Also on display will be a selection of EasyCut mowers featuring the SmartCut mower bed with SafeCut disc protection.

On displayed at the show will be KW mounted tedder with Octolink drive, the Swadro TC 880 plus twin rotor rake with its new look chassis and lift tine designed to minimize crop contamination and a Comprima V 150 XC Xtreme capable of withstanding the most arduous of baling conditions with its EasyFlow camless pick up and unique NovoGrip variable bale chamber design.

Also on display will be a selection of round and square balers and BiG X forage harvester with the VariStream

crop flow system, hydrostatic 4 wheel drive and variable length of chop adjustment from the cab.

To find out about Krone’s special show offers or for more information on the full product range please come along and visit the Krone stand.

Kuhn Farm Machinery

Kuhn Farm Machinery’s twin-reel film binding bale wrapping system, which won a silver award in the Livestock Innovation category of the 2019 LAMMA Innovation Awards,

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will be shown at Royal Highland show on the FBP Bale Pack combination baler-wrapper and i-BIO combination.

Unlike other film binding systems which use wide mantle rolls to perform the bale binding function, the KUHN system uses two standard 750 mm stretch film rolls to fully encapsulate the bale. As well as improving silage preservation and making the recycling of waste plastic easier, this system also reduces plastic usage by up to 30% by prestretching the wrapping film by 70% prior to application. Film loading is also quicker and easier as each roll weighs just 27 kg, compared to the wider rolls which can weigh between 40-90 kg. The upgraded FBP 3135 twin satellite machine also uses KUHN’s IntelliWrap system which gives complete control of the wrapping process by allowing the operator to select even and odd numbers of film to be applied. The FBP is also available with KUHN’s 3D

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Royal Highland Show 2019 wrapping system which wraps around the cylindrical surface of the bale first to exclude more air, thereby improving forage preservation and maintaining bale shape for longer. The FBP 3135 Bale Pack can also be used with conventional net binding: switching between film and net binding is quick and simple as the two systems are separate, making it easy to switch from one system to the other for different crops. The FBP 3135 Bale Pack machine is just one of a range of KUHN machines which will feature at this year’s Royal Highland Show. Other machines in the KUHN baler range include fixed and variable chamber round balers and baler-wrappers, and high-density square balers.

Landmark & Farmdata

Joint Landmark and Farmdata MTD meetings for clients

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Following on from the joining of forces of Farmdata and Landmark Systems in February this year, the team have been busy updating software and providing group training sessions for clients.

“The new Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT regime which began officially from 1st April has resulted in additional work to look after our clients and show them the new solutions being offered,” commented George Paterson, General Manager of Farmdata.

“To assist our clients, we have held a series of free workshops across Scotland to introduce MTD and the use of the updated software in order to conform. We’ve had a great turnout, with nearly 50% of our accounts users attending one of the workshops, with the busiest being close to our home base at Aberdeen,” continued George.

The events have also been an opportunity to introduce Nigel

Parsons and Allistair Gray from Landmark, and to announce future development plans for the product range. Many users were interested to see Landmark’s KEYPrime Intro accounts package, and several have already opted to upgrade onto it, together with a full data transfer from their existing system.

Future developments were also discussed including the development of a mobile phone/ tablet hand held App for the company’s award winning Cattledata program which it is hoped will be trialling later this year.

There will be further opportunities to meet the Farmdata and Landmark teams at events in the forthcoming months. On May 23rd they will be exhibiting at Beef Expo at Kendall, on May 30th Scotland’s Beef Event near Oldmeldrum and in June at the Royal Highland Show on the usual Farmdata stand (Ave Q) and the

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Scottish Land and Estates stand (Avenue F).

Lemken

The new LEMKEN Diamant 16 is a new addition to the Diamant plough range from LEMKEN and will be on show at the 2019 Royal Highland Show.

One new feature ‘OptiLine’ now provides the first and to date only adjustment system for this type of plough design to prevent lateral pull during ploughing – a new feature that has already been awarded a DLG Silver medal. The range of applications for this plough has also been broadened to

Royal Highland Show 2019 cater for larger tractors with greater pulling power.

From the Diamant 11 range the traction increase system, has been expanded by a feature for reducing pressure at the headlands contributing to even greater fuel savings. This allows higher system pressures, which result in even more weight being shifted from the plough and front tractor axle to the rear tractor axle. As a result, the tractor/ plough combination gains even greater pulling force.

The dimensions of all main bearings have been enlarged and the onland version has also been updated, allowing the implement to be used with tractors with an external widths of up to four metres. This ensures that the wheels always maintain a sufficient distance from the furrow edges, even in difficult conditions. The continuously variable hydraulic working depth adjustment is yet another innovation and the proven Hydromatic overload protection

ensures disruption-free ploughing in stoney soils.

The Diamant 16 features hydraulic depth adjustment. The working depth is set via the threepoint linkage at the front and via the transport wheel at the rear, either via a hydraulic/mechanical (standard equipment) or optionally via a hydraulic/electrical mechanism.

The relevant shut-off valve is set to either the SET or WORK position.

This can be done manually or via a spool valve operated from the tractor seat.

Major Equipment

Major Equipment Ltd will be returning to the 2019 Royal

Highland Show with a selection of machines from their extensive grass cutting and slurry handling equipment range.

If you’re thinking of a flail mower, take a look at the Major Cyclone mower. The Major Cyclone mower bridges the gap between grass topper and flail mower. It performs brilliantly in everyday grass land management but also delivers a superb finish in the heaviest of conditions.

There are eight models available in working widths from 2.0m to 6.3m. Major will be showcasing three models (2.5m, 3.5m and 4.2m) from the Cyclone mower range at this year’s event.

The Henderson family farm on the Isle of Arann in Scotland is just one of many Scottish customers now running a Major 2.5m Cyclone mower.

The mower is used by the Hendersons across the farm for everyday grass topping but where it really shines is in the clearance of rushes and gorse.

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“We run the mower on a 100hp tractor and it’s under no pressure even when mowing in heavier conditions,” explained David Henderson. “A flail mower in an equivalent working width would require far more power than we’re putting into the Cyclone so there is a fuel saving there too,” commented David.

If you’re considering upgrading your grass topper there will also be a selection of grass toppers on display included the upgraded Side Mounted grass topper. This mower now features a galvanised body for increased life span. Major will also have a 2800 gallon LGP contractor tanker and a selection of slurry application systems on display.

Call to the Major stand at the Royal Highland Show 2019 and speak to one of our team about a suitable slurry handling system for your business. For more information call 01524 850501 or visit www.major-equipment. com.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 McHale Engineering

McHale will be exhibiting a wide range of machinery over the 4 days including the new McHale Centre Delivery Rake, the McHale Pro Glide range of mowers, the McHale Fusion Range and the Orbital High Speed Round Bale Wrapper.

McHale will be exhibiting the McHale Pro Glide F3100 Front Mower and the R3100 Rear Mower from their Pro Glide Mower Range. All Mowers are fitted with 3 metre cutter bars with steel tine conditioners. McHale have developed unique patented ground adaption technology which delivers 3 dimensional ground contour tracking and allows an

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arc of movement from left to right and forward and back movement adjusting to changes in the contours of the ground. The McHale Pro Glide B9000 Combination mower is now available with hydraulic width adjustment.

McHale have harnessed the proven vertical wrapping ring technology used in the McHale Fusion to produce the McHale Orbital High Output Bale Wrapper which is capable of keeping up with multiple balers. The highspeed vertical wrapping ring can apply four layers of film to a 1.25 metre bale in approximately 18 seconds or six layers of film in less than 25 seconds.

McHale have introduced a number of new changes to the Fusion 3 Plus, mainly in the area of bale quality with a bale weighing, bale density and bale moisture content recording option available.

This will allow customers to ensure their bales are of maximum quality. Two customisable cameras are now provided as standard

on new Fusion 3 Plus machines, which allow for the operator to choose their preferred view of the NRF/Netter camera and the bale transfer and wrapping camera.

The new McHale Centre Delivery Rake will be on display.

This comes in two sizes, the R6272 has a working width of 6.2m – 7.2m while the R68-78 has a working width of 6.8m – 7.8m.

Merlo UK

on the market, Merlo UK are keen to present their distinguished machines to the farming world this year at The Royal Highland Show.

Exhibiting at Stand 300T, Merlo will be showcasing a range of Agricultural machines, including the following; P27.6, TF33.7G, TF42.7, TF35.7 in addition to a new Multifarmer! Merlo UK’s appearance will give members of the public the perfect opportunity to interact with the team and engage with their products.

Merlo will have the perfect machine for you!

Murray Machinery

Returning again, Merlo UK, World Leaders in the Telehander Design, are proudly presenting its Agricultural TF range at The Royal Highland Show on the 20th-23rd June.

As the providers of the widest range of agricultural telehandlers

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Royal Highland Show 2019 Set up in 1979, Murray Machinery Ltd operates from its base in Aberdeenshire, manufacturing material handling attachments for Telescopic Handlers, Tractor Loaders and Forklifts. For the last 40 years they have been supplying dealers throughout Scotland, UK and abroad.

With a product range of 30 different machines with numerous variations, Murray Machinery take pride in the quality and presentation of their products, and with the help of the latest CAD design and CNC machine tools, reliability and durability are also at the forefront.

One of their latest machines to be fully designed by CAD and come off the production line at Murray Machinery is the Gravel Road Grader. With many farm, estate and forestry roads in a very bad condition with potholes and puddles, the Gravel Road Grader will reinstate any gravel road to a new and pristine condition. The optional features of front ripper

teeth and adjustable camber angle allow the operator to grade the road flat or leave the road high in the middle to allow the rain water to run off, both leading to road conditions less stressful for drivers and their vehicles.

In 2019 Murray Machinery Ltd will have been exhibiting at the Royal Highland Show for 30 years. At the Royal Highland Show there will be approximately 20 different machines on display on avenue D along with the Gravel Road Grader.

For Murray Machinery the Royal Highland Show is an important venue to be exhibiting at, ‘not only do we do good business at the show’, says Peter Murray, ‘it is an excellent opportunity to show new products, to meet new customers and gain an insight to the future needs of customers, and very importantly to get feedback from customers which all goes towards creating new and better products for the future.’

Penderfeed Penderfeed Livestock Equipment have been given the agency for ARROWQUIP cattle crushes and handling equipment which are made in Canada.

There are 3 model options:* A standard manual squeeze crush without a vet cage at the back. * Manual squeeze with a split door vet cage. * Hydraulic squeeze crush with 4 levers for squeeze, rear door, yoke gates at the front and a head sweep which moves the animal’s head to the side for secure treatment.

All crushes have a sliding back door and heavy duty rubber floor which reduces noise and provides sure footing for the cattle. Quietness is also achieved by using rubber absorbers on moving parts, nylon rump fingers and all hinges are fitted with nylon bushes. These quality crushes have good access to the animal

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on both sides with maximum safety for the operator and the cattle.

A mobile crush and race is also available. This trailer is 22ft (6.721m) long weighing 1,700Kgs. The mobile unit has a manual squeeze crush with vet access, easy flow adjustable ‘V’ race and two rolling doors included. The race is adjustable in width from 750mm down to 460mm. A head holder can easily be added to the unit. This unit can be lifted with a single manual jack or a 24-volt electric jack, which is an optional extra and the wheels are easily removed with two pins.

Penderfeed is a specialist livestock equipment supplier who also sells cattle crushes and equipment made by other wellknown manufacturers. For more information contact Ben or Peter by e-mail (bsanderson@ penderfeed.co.uk) and we will discuss livestock handling with you.

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Royal Highland Show 2019 Perry of Oakley

Perry of Oakley Ltd also manufacture a full range of 10tph – 1000tph handling equipment including chain & flight conveyors, belt & bucket elevators, augers & screw conveyors, aspirator precleaners, belt conveyors & much more!

If you require any information on how Perry of Oakley can support your grain handling and storage needs please contact Perry on 01404 890300 or sales@ perryofoakley.co.uk Polaris

Savannah Series Driers from Perry of Oakley Ltd Perry of Oakley Ltd are the UK’s most experienced manufacturer of materials handling & drying equipment. Their latest grain driers, the Savannah series, have significant improvements from their popular ‘M’ Series.

The operation of the fans are controlled by an inverter so there is the potential to save power and crop lift off by running the fans at reduced speed. The unique crop set up page automatically selects the initial fan speed best suited to the crop.

The overall drier width has been reduced by 500mm which will help when fitting the drier into existing buildings.

The Savannah Series driers still have Perry’s own advanced PLC panel, which is designed and programmed in house, and the auto control, which uses both the exhaust air temperature and hot grain temperature to give advanced control of the drier with feedback, to maintain a consistent moisture content of the discharged grain.

To ensure drier longevity they are built with a 2mm thick grain column, and 3mm thick top ducts in the to help prevent deformation and wear.

To promote consistent movement of the grain down the grain column, even in very wet conditions, all Savannah Series Driers are fitted with our pneumatically controlled Shutter discharge.

These improvements, and the other key features of the Savannah range, provide a truly commercial specification grain drier for use on farms and commercial grain stores.

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If you want an ATV that will carry two people, the Sportsman X2 570 EPS is the ideal choice, offering the features of the single-seater with the addition of Polaris 4 wheel Active Descent Control (ADC) for safely traversing the steepest hills in all types of weather. It’s designed for getting two people who need to work together into and out of the most inaccessible areas and safely down the steepest inclines, with optimum traction and control in all conditions. If you’re looking for more power consider the Polaris Sportsman XP 1000, featuring EPS, EBS and ADC. Polaris Britain: www.polarisbritain. com

blanket of forage to be placed. By manually opening or closing the rear cover, it is very easy to switch between leaving a single swath or a wide blanket of forage.

If you combine the NOVACAT 352 CROSS FLOW with a 3 mtr wide front mower, you can mow a width of 12 mtr in two passes leaving both swaths placed within approximately 6 mtr. A twin rotor centre delivery rake is then adequate to combine these swaths to significantly reduce the number of passes, which therefore conserves the forage, reduces the risk of soil contamination and saves fuel.

Powerwasher Services Ltd

Pottinger

Polaris has lined up an extensive and impressive range of UTVs and ATVs for the Royal Highland Show.

Starting with the latest all-new Ranger Diesel. A result of 2 years research and development, fuelled by direct feedback from customers and dealers; the new Ranger diesel features a class beating 3 cylinder engine delivering constant power, better torque and smoother ride with a lower cost of ownership thanks to the service intervals being over 200 hours.

The new Ranger diesel joins the rest of the Ranger family offering the perfect solution in offroad working transport capable of carrying up to six people, from the two-seater Ranger 570 to the General and Ranger XP1000 EPS; as well as the Ranger EV giving you the choice of petrol, diesel or electric power.

There are few, if any, to match the off-road abilities of the world’s best-selling Sportsman ATVs. Take the Sportsman 570 EPS boasting 44hp, Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and Engine Braking System (EBS) to complement the class leading suspension, and true, on demand All-Wheel Drive.

A long-time favourite, the Sportsman is thoroughly at home negotiating the toughest terrain while providing the rider with an ergonomic, all-round work horse.

One of Pottingers latest developments enables swaths to be merged for the first time without the use of a conditioner. The CROSS FLOW auger merges the swath immediately after mowing allowing for a versatile range of applications.

Pottinger has now made it possible for a cost effective and straightforward system for swath merging with rear mounted mowers. The NOVACAT 352 CROSS FLOW mower with its enclosed auger merges forage to form one swath after mowing whilst preventing forage losses.

CROSS FLOW works without a conditioner and is characterised by its light tare weight and power requirements.

The result is that it not only conserves the soil, but also saves fuel. Compared to a cross conveyor belt system, the cross flow auger consumes 20% less power and offers a 30% reduction in weight.

Also due to no conditioner being required all forage is handled with extreme care.

Because the crop is placed in a single swath, on hot summer days the crop does not dry out too fast before being collected. For a more intensive drying effect, the rear flap can be opened allowing a wider

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Powerwasher Services Ltd is a family run business of over 35 years, they are based in Laurencekirk, North East of Scotland but operate all over the Scottish countryside.

With a fleet of eight service vans and two sales representatives out on the road daily, the friendly and knowledgeable team of specialists deal with all sales, service and repair requirements, as well as collection and delivery of your machines. With their extensive range, their knowledge covers Power Washers, Scrubber Driers, Floor Sweepers, Vacuums, Compressors, Heaters, Generators, Janitorial Supplies and a varied range of cleaning Chemicals suitable for all needs. Although they continue to grow year on year, rest assured they will continue to deliver their high standard of customer care. Let them help you to get the right machine for the job with free site surveys available and onsite demonstrations, there is also the option to view the range of machines at their showroom at Powerwasher Services HQ, Bridgemill, Northwaterbridge.

Here equipment demonstrations can also be conducted.

Powerwasher Services Ltd pride themselves on the after sales care,

Royal Highland Show 2019 with no call out or mileage charges and an expectation to attend repairs on the same day or next day where possible. This year Powerwasher Services will continue their presence at the agricultural shows, chatting with customers and showcasing their range of machinery at The Royal Highland Show in June, Fettercairn Show and Scottish Game Fair in July and the Turriff Show in August.

For any further information contact the team today on 01674 840412 or email power.washer@ btconnect.com.

Rolland Trailers

Rolland’s 18th year at the Highland show.

Rolland trailers have been selling in the UK since the late 70’s with over 4,000 machines sold. Working from the most modern factory in its field with 30,000m2 of buildings Rolland offer Trailers, manure spreaders and hydraulic lowering as the main stream of their 20 families of different products.

The factory situated in North west france offers un unrivalled paint process with machines shotblasted through a 30m long shot blasting chamber with angled shot post welding, then the bodies and chassis are dipped 6 times, degreasing, Phosphating, Electroplating, Powder coating and twice oven cured for a finish that is only offered in the automobile industry. Come and see us on our stand avenue B and look at our new Rollvan livestock trailers very popular in Scotland for their ease of loading and comfort through a hydraulic suspension models start with a 15ft and go up to 28ft all have a non slip resin floor as standard .Hydraulic lowering trailers change farmers lives loading cattle with a small step rather than steep ramps! We will also be showing our latest heavy duty dump trailer the Rollroc which has a hardox body and 26.5 rims with a heavy duty

axle a truly professional’s piece of machinery. Come and ask us for a price!

Scottish Machinery Rings

Our Royal Highland Show stand is even bigger than last year, still on Avenue Q, No 228 near the Forestry Section with the tall poles.

All young Machinery Ring Members (below 30) are invited on Friday of the Royal Highland Show for a Hog Roast 12-2pm at the stand There will be a draw at the Highland Show for a photo competition of “Me and my Case IH”. Please send photos to bruce@ tayforth.co.uk With Case IH won the tractor of the year award for 2019, the grand prize will be announced at the Show but may be a trip to the Case IH factory in Austria. So why not visit our stand and find out for yourelf?

Shearwell Data

store and breeding stock. She also established a Texel flock in 2012.

Kirsty was looking for software to help keep track of everything – from statutory requirements to management and performance recording, to allow her to select the premium breeding animals and to aid with selection of tups for sale.

A self-confessed technophobe, she needed something straightforward, with good back-up and support if she needed assistance.

After consultation with Shearwell’s north Scotland representative Jane Thomson she opted for the software package of FarmWorks, along with the associated mobile phone App and a Shearwell Stick Reader.

FarmWorks is a complete management program allowing detailed recording of sheep from weights to full pedigree and productivity details.

Kirsty says ‘It’s a great system – the knowledge that it is recording everything onto one database is great – and it’s all done while you are working with the sheep, so you don’t have to dig the books out at night and try to remember everything you’ve done. Being able to view animal details while you’re out with them is a great management tool.’

Kirsty uses the management group functionality a lot, saying ‘It’s so handy being able to create and name a group, and then scan sheep into it – you know exactly where you are with everything.’

Jane helped Kirsty set the system up and is on hand if she needs help, giving Kirsty peace of mind. ‘Shearwell’s training and support is superb’ she said, ‘I know I can call Jane and she will help me.’

‘It is simple, accurate, and gives me peace of mind that everything is correctly recorded – so I can concentrate on the shepherding!’

Storth Machinery

Kirsty MacLennan is a busy young mum, working full time and running the long-established Heathmount flock of North Country Cheviot sheep near Tain in the north of Scotland, selling www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Ammonia Gas is a major contributor to air pollution across the globe and at Storth, we knew we could do more to help reduce air pollution. Following intense research, we designed and produced a complete range of Slurry Handling Machinery, to suit the ever-changing needs of Farmers and Contractors worldwide. We listened to and responded to our customers and designed a complete system, starting with the cow, ending back in the field.

As most Gas Emissions are released on the spreading of Slurry, Storth manufactured in our British based factory, a range of galvanised Dribble Bars to help assist with precision application, whilst meeting the most demanding needs of the agricultural market. This type of slurry application assists with the amount of nutrients available to crops, as traditional methods of spreading slurry see that most nutrients are lost in the atmosphere, releasing the harmful Ammonia Gas. Our range of Dribble Bars reduce the surface area of which slurry is exposed to, lowering nutrient losses by as much as 5% in comparison to Spreader Bars.

Every farm is different, therefore Storth developed a range of Dribble Bars to help accommodate most farmers and as such, the Farmer Plus and Contractor Dribble Bar were made. The Vertical Fold Dribble Bar incorporates a close coupled central frame design, giving narrow transport width, as well as the strength to facilitate the optional HD Female A-frame.

Prior to slurry being applied to the ground, it is processed by the Distributor, giving an even-better consistency to the slurry being applied. The Farmer Plus Dribble Bar has been developed to have the added benefit to use the dribble bar application on a tanker as opposed to our Umbilical Contractor version. To find out more, please visit our website www.storthmachinery.co.uk 95

Royal Highland Show 2019 Teagle Machinery

“Processing straw for animal feed is a key requirement for many of our livestock customers” claims Jim Squires, Teagle Machinery’s UK Sales Manager. “In response to customer feedback the popular Tomahawk 8550 has been upgraded and is able to process long and short straw and silage”.

With 30 years’ experience in designing and manufacturing straw bale processors Teagle Machinery offers the widest range of models and the most comprehensive product portfolio in the sector. With a customer base spanning 50 countries, this British based, family owned business has an established an international reputation as ‘the specialist’ in the operation of processing straw.

This reputation is sustained by consistently reacting to the needs of its customers and underpinning the changing requirements with an impressive commitment to product development. A new Research & Development facility to accommodate the expansion of this vital function with the company was completed in 2018.

Jim Squires Teagle Machinery’s UK Sales Manager claims “Our customers tell us they need machinery which offers flexibility in application with reliable and precision performance.

In 2018 all Tomahawk models received enhancements to reflect these demands”.

Jim goes on to say, “The New 8555 is no exception and has undergone a series of updates not only to enhance performance but also to widen its applications. The Tomahawk 8555 incorporates a removable screen and is able to process a wide range of materials including straw, silage and hay.

It can process straw with a high level of precision and consistency with its unique, integral, ‘scissor action’ chopping mechanism for 96

animal feed and cubicle bedding, shred straw for loose housing requirements and feed clamp and round bale silage”.

The Tomahawk 8555SC-D has a List Price of £27,105.00 and will be exhibited by Teagle Machinery (Agricultural, Avenue R) at the forthcoming 2019 Royal Highland Show.

For more details, Tel: 01872 560592/e-mail jim.squires@teagle. co.uk Tong Engineering & Scanstone

Tong Engineering will once again be showcasing its latest potato and vegetable handling equipment at this year’s Royal Highland Show, alongside the company’s approved dealer for Scotland, ScanStone Potato Systems.

ScanStone and Tong are very pleased to be exhibiting at Scotland’s iconic agricultural event, and will be delighted to welcome customers old and new to discuss the latest equipment developments.

On stand at the event, ScanStone Potato Systems will be showcasing its popular range

of soil separation equipment, including the company’s new Patriot harvester.

“As a Forfar-based company, the Royal Highland Show is a key date in our events calendar and we are excited to be exhibiting alongside Tong to display our own range of equipment and discuss our customers’ upcoming harvesting and post-harvest requirements,” says Alison Skea of ScanStone.

With the latest equipment upgrades from Tong including advanced and intelligent HMI touch screen controls, as well as market leading grading, washing and optical sorting, Tong will be on stand to welcome farmers and growers to discuss the latest labour-saving post-harvest handling solutions.

“At Tong we are dedicated to providing growers and processors with advanced and intelligent machinery that saves time, reduces labour and increases productivity; the latest additions to our range are bringing very noticeable cost savings whilst allowing our customers to increase product yield and minimise crop waste,” explains Nick Woodcock, Sales Manager at Tong Engineering.

“We look forward to discussing this and other equipment developments with our visitors at the Royal Highland Show,” added Nick.

Vaderstad

Vaderstad launches new high speed precision Tempo drill Vaderstad has launched the new Tempo L 8 as well as introduced new configurations to its 12 and 18 models.

The new Tempo L models combine excellent high-speed planting precision with high capacity output of both seed and fertiliser. Tempo L 8 has eight row units, a 3000 litre fertiliser hopper and row spacing options from 700-800mm.

Changing row units from eight to 12 makes the drill very versatile.

The 12 row configuration enables narrow row spacing alternatives from 450 to 508mm.

The new 3000 litre fertiliser hopper is available for all eight, 12 and 18 row Tempo L models. The new fertiliser hopper is optional for existing Tempo L 12 and Tempo L 18 models. It is fitted with the same high capacity Fenix III metering system as the 5000 litre hopper, and is able to deliver up to 350kg/ ha fertiliser at 15km/hr planting speed.

The Tempo L 8 and the new fertiliser hopper solutions as well as and new row spacing alternatives for Tempo L 12 and Tempo L 18 will go into production in November 2019.

Future Royal Highland Show Dates

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Royal Highland Show 2019 2015

Royal Highland Show Visitor Information Showground Opening and Closing Times Visitors are advised of the Conditions of Entry which are published on the Royal Highland Show and RHASS websites and are displayed at the public entrances to the Show.

Thursday 20th June General Public Opening Time - 07:00 - 20:00 s ,ICENSED 0REMISES ARE OPEN FROM s 2ESTAURANTS WITH BAR FROM s TH !VENUE !RCADE 3COTLAND S ,ARDER ,IVE s 'ENERAL 4RADE 3TANDS OPEN FROM s 2(%4 $ISCOVERY #ENTRE s -AIN 2ING s #OUNTRYSIDE !RENA s &ORESTRY !RENA s 4HE &ORGE s %NTERTAINMENT 3TAGES Friday 21st June General Public Opening Time - 07:00 - 20:00 s ,ICENSED 0REMISES ARE OPEN FROM s 2ESTAURANTS WITH BAR FROM s TH !VENUE !RCADE 3COTLAND S ,ARDER ,IVE s 'ENERAL 4RADE 3TANDS OPEN FROM s 2(%4 $ISCOVERY #ENTRE s -AIN 2ING s #OUNTRYSIDE !RENA s &ORESTRY !RENA s 4HE &ORGE s 3HEEP 3HEARING s %NTERTAINMENT 3TAGES

Saturday 22nd June General Public Opening Time - 07:00 - 20:00 s ,ICENSED 0REMISES ARE OPEN FROM s 2ESTAURANTS WITH BAR FROM s TH !VENUE !RCADE 3COTLAND S ,ARDER ,IVE s 'ENERAL 4RADE 3TANDS OPEN FROM s 2(%4 $ISCOVERY #ENTRE s -AIN 2ING s #OUNTRYSIDE !RENA s &ORESTRY !RENA s 4HE &ORGE s 3HEEP 3HEARING s %NTERTAINMENT 3TAGES Sunday 23rd June General Public Opening Time - 07:00 - 18:00 s ,ICENSED 0REMISES s 2ESTAURANTS WITH BAR s TH !VENUE !RCADE 3COTLAND S ,ARDER ,IVE s 'ENERAL 4RADE 3TANDS OPEN FROM s 2(%4 $ISCOVERY #ENTRE s -AIN 2ING s #OUNTRYSIDE !RENA s &ORESTRY !RENA s 4HE &ORGE s 3HEEP 3HEARING s %NTERTAINMENT 3TAGES

Ticket Prices (inc VAT) ADULT (AGE 16+) £24. Advance e-tickets (available until 5pm on 19th June), sent by email attachment for print-at-home, or display on a mobile device e.g. smartphone.

Adult at-the-gate single admit ticket (AGE 16+) £29. Concessionary ticket (only offered at-the-gate): £27 2019 ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW GIFT TICKET £27.00. Presentation wallet includes 1 printed RHS ticket with 4 postcards exclusively designed for Royal Highland Show. One presentation wallet per ticket purchased. Please allow up to 5 days for a postal delivery.

Parking £8. Advance e-ticket (available until 5pm on 19th June), sent by email attachment for print-at-home, or display on a mobile device e.g. smartphone.

Parking at-the-gate ticket per day: £10 ADULT TRAM DAY RETURN Aged 16+ £3. Show Tram tickets are for City Zone only trips up to Ingliston Park & Ride Stop and do not include the Airport. Tram tickets do not include admission to the event.

CHILD TRAM DAY RETURN Aged 15 & under £1.50. Show Tram tickets are for City Zone only trips up to Ingliston Park & Ride Stop and do not include the Airport. Tram tickets do not include admission to the event.

FAMILY TRAM DAY RETURN Up to 2 Adults & 3 Children £7.50. Show Tram tickets are for City Zone only trips up to Ingliston Park & Ride Stop and do not include the Airport. Tram tickets do not include admission to the event. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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Farming travel guide Scotland A Taste of Nairn

by Janice Hopper Nairn is so proud of its local produce and culinary skills that it’s just organised and celebrated its first food festival. From a ‘Gin and Jazz Night’ to a food market and ‘Beer & Banter Evening’, the festival demonstrated a confidence in the local cuisine, much of which is sourced from local farmers and producers who offer a taste of Nairn, from field to fork.

‘One One Two on the Brae’ is an intimate restaurant in central Nairn with a continental vibe, think a cosy French restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.

Its glorious wall of wine and gin, lining one entire side of the venue, is also a huge draw.

Run by Gordon Kidd, Kirstin Hamilton and Cathy Hamilton, it dishes up light bites and platters. Kristin graduated from the Scottish Agricultural College in Ayr, studying Equine Tourism Management and Food Tourism Management so she’s particular about her produce.

One supplier is butcher, Macbeths’ of Forres, which sources meat from its own farm, and Kirstin has taken the time to visit in person. If you partake in the restaurant’s cheese platter, it’s a mix of predominantly Scottish names and flavours.

The Really Garlicky Company, a fellow Nairn company, supplies the garlic oatcakes, the onion chutney is made in Orkney, the honey comes from bee hives on a friend’s farm in Perthshire, and the cheeses are a combination of Blair Lyath Cheddar, Morangie Brie and a chunk of Welsh Harlech.

The wine wall offers around 250 different wines for diners to choose between and approximately fifty gins, including Avva gin created by Craibstone alumni, Jill Brown, who studied Agriculture & Rural Business Management.

The botanicals Jill selected for her gin are a colourful blend of the countryside, featuring rowan from

Househill Farm Shop beef

a farm at Drummuir, dandelions from Jill’s garden, nettles and red clover that grew on the verges of Jill’s grandparents’ farm, and mint sourced near the burn where the cattle went in the wintertime.

A second foodie stop, this time slightly out of town, is Househill Farm Shop and

Sun Dancer -views out to sea

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Househill Café.

Margaret Nicolson runs the farm shop, which stocks beef from their own Simmental Cattle, reared by her husband Gordon Nicolson. The couple also grow malting barley.

Many farm shops are often quite removed from the livestock, but at Househill visitors can see the cattle in their sheds, hear the trundle of tractors driving past and witness rural business progressing. Whilst in the shop, pick up farm fresh vegetables, Rannoch Smoked Venison, Highland Bay Seafoods, eggs from Nairn’s Brackla Farm, and a range of Tractor Ted toys for wee ones. For those who wish to sample the goods immediately, nip next door to Househill Café, run by Carmel Hay, who dishes up Steak Sandwiches and Househill Beef Mince Pie, as well as a range of cakes, soups and sandwiches. We’re talking food metres, rather than food miles here.

Back in town, another unmissable location is the Sun Dancer Restaurant. This venue has an American diner vibe, yet it’s simultaneously smart and welcoming. Whilst it’s popular with locals and visitors for its cuisine, such as Seafood Platters, Braised Beef Short Rib or Slow

Farming travel guide Scotland Confit Pork Belly, the views are breathtaking. Anyone who loves the scenery of Scotland should dine here. Right on the beachfront, guests place their orders as waves crash on the sand, the sun sets or, on very special occasions, the Northern Lights dance in the distance.

Metres from the Sun Dancer is Nairn’s marina, which today boasts a flotilla of leisure boats.

Nairn’s harbour, once a hive of industry, is now home to the ‘Nairn Fishwife’. This bronze memorial commemorates the harvest of the sea, especially the work of the womenfolk who held the fort, mended the nets, baited the lines and raised a family, whilst the men chased the catch. The locals are clearly proud of the hard work ordinary folk carried out in order to make a living.

As visitors explore the streets, parks and coastline of Nairn it’s clear that this small town has a rich sense of tradition, combined with a fresh offering. It’s notable how many independent shops and merchants still exist and flourish here, which is good

Nairn Museum

news for farmers who wish to supply their produce to respected outlets that aren’t locked into nationwide contracts. The big brands haven’t taken over this town yet! Meander along the High Street and you’ll find several independent butchers, the Highland Deli, Morton’s Sweet Shop, the Crafty Wee Birdie Gift Shop, and by the harbour is the up-cycling specialist ‘On the Upside’ that has a canny line in old bike saddles transformed into decorative Highland Cow wall plaques. Then head slightly out of town to visit Auldearn Antiques, an ideal spot to find items to add character to any farmhouse. It’s such a rare pleasure to visit a plethora of independent shops, restaurants and cafés, each with their own story to tell.

In terms of tradition, visitors can take a scenic walk along the beachfront, past the bandstand, playgrounds and putting green, which all feel unspoiled and frozen in time. But then you’ll stumble upon the very cool ‘James’s at the Putting Green’.

Seafood Platter at the Sundancer

Owner, James Grigg, is putting dairy on the map, serving icecream, sorbets, milky lattes and cappuccinos from an unassuming cabin. Outdoor seating is provided, complete with blankets and even hot water bottles to keep guests cosy. James makes the ice cream and sorbets himself, often using his own soft fruit from the garden, such as blackcurrants, red currants and gooseberries. A neighbour gives him plums for the plum and cinnamon sorbet, and the milk and cream come from Graham’s Dairy. The quaint cabin was once the kiosk that handed out the putters for folk to use on the putting green, and James is keen to resurrect this service.

Such quirkiness and originality is typical of Nairn, where many establishments are the passion of dedicated individuals.

For those who wish to get a wider overview of Nairn’s agricultural, fishing and farming history, drop by its small museum on Viewfield Drive. Artefacts and display boards sum up farming life before industrialisation and mechanisation took over.

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Discover how the railway, war and politics affected life in the town and on the land.

Ultimately, Nairn is a community with its own identity.

Take time to visit and you’ll discover great flavours, quirks, quality, tradition, modernity and idiosyncrasy all in one place.

Where to Stay For a boutique B&B, personal service and a warm welcome, consider Sandown House.

Situated on the outskirts of Nairn, near the beach, this five star guest house is situated within a converted Dairy Farm and offers six ensuite rooms, some of which welcome dogs.

Owners, Liz and Andrew Burgess, serve local produce at breakfast, including berries from Hardmuir Farm, bacon and sausages from Bruce Clark Butchers in Nairn, free range eggs from Meikle Geddes Farm, and fruits and vegetables from Swanson’s Fruit. Liz bakes her own soda bread, and makes homemade jams, marmalade and granola for her guests. sandownhouse.com 99

organics

New support service launched to help farmers considering organic A support service has been launched to provide free advice and technical guidance to organic farmers and those considering organic conversion.

The Organic Advice, Support and Information Service (OASIS) has been developed collaboratively by independent farm consultancy Abacus Agriculture and OF&G (Organic Farmers and Growers), who certify over half the organic land in the UK. With 60 years’ experience in the sector Abacus Agriculture and OF&G are aiming to help farmers decide whether organic conversion is right for their farm business, as well as providing existing organic farmers with the latest management and technical guidance.

Ian Knight, director at Abacus Agriculture, says a key objective of OASIS is to encourage farmers to carefully consider organic as a viable and sustainable option for future prosperity. “It’s about making the conversion process a success and reducing commercial risk.

“Many producers and growers we speak to question whether organic is right for their business and want to know more about what it takes to successfully convert. We’ve created OASIS to help answer some of these fundamental questions, allowing farmers to assess whether the changes required to become certified organic could suit their farm.”

OASIS’ new website offers accurate information about organic conversion, says Mr Knight. “We 100

have a simple self-assessment questionnaire to help farmers decide if it’s the right choice, along with a step-by-step guide to aid successful conversion. Technical resources are also available for existing organic farmers, to keep up-to-date with the latest research.”

Alongside the website, OASIS has a helpline to a team of advisors that farmers can call. “Qualified consultants are on hand to provide additional advice and talk through any queries. If organic production seems feasible, there’s then the option to purchase an advisory package which includes a farm visit to consider feasibility and to develop an organic conversion plan.”

Steven Jacobs, business development manager at OF&G, says there’s huge opportunity for organic in the UK and globally.

“The UK organic market has grown at around 5% year-onyear for the past eight years and as a regenerative food production system it provides a viable business option for many. But conversion is a significant commitment. It can take around two or three years and the decision to switch must be backed up by sound economic sense.“We encourage anyone thinking about converting part or all of their farm to organic to visit the OASIS website or to call the helpline for advice,” concludes Mr Jacobs.

For information about organic conversion visit the OASIS website: https://organicinfo.org. uk/ or call 0844 800 0091.

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Research and innovation that underpin the future of farming The Royal Highland Show (20-23 June 2019) is one of Scotland’s most iconic events. While it showcases the very best of farming food and rural life, it could be argued that it is actually a science, research and innovation event, since these disciplines underpin the future of agriculture in Scotland.

The James Hutton Institute’s world-leading contributions to crops, land and the environment through cutting-edge research will be presented at the Show through exhibits portraying the future of agriculture, vertical farming, developments in soft fruit, integrated pest management, peatland restoration, water research, forestry, soil health and work on rural sustainability.

Hutton scientists will give clues as to what Scotland’s plate will look like in 2050 comparing it to its counterpart from 80 years ago on the eve of World War II and showing how current socio-economic circumstances posed by geopolitical change present both opportunities and threats.

Our researchers will also show and tell visitors to the Show how science is helping develop extraordinary innovation and new understanding to respond to future challenges - for

instance, how vertical farming can help reduce water wastage, agrochemical use and food miles On Show Thursday (20th June), we will host a reception and talks about how the £62m of support from the Tay Cities Deal will deliver gamechanging benefits through the International Barley Hub and Advanced Plant Growth Centre..

Show Friday (21st June) will see our Superfoods Breakfast, featuring produce grown on Scotland’s only vertical farm, leading into the presentation of the 2019 Best Soil in Show award, which draws attention to the need for active management of soils. The prize-giving for new entrants to agriculture, organised by the EU-funded NEWBIE project will take place immediately thereafter, To find out about practical applications of the Institute’s research, visit the Hutton marquee on Avenue Q of the showground at Ingliston.

Children attending the show can get stuck into fun activities to help them discover the future of food at the Institute’s stand in the RHET Children’s Discovery Centre.

You can also visit our website www.hutton.ac.uk to learn more about how our research is driving the sustainable use of land and natural resources.

renewable energy

Renewable electricity at record levels Equivalent of 74.6% of gross electricity consumption was from renewable sources.

Renewable electricity generation in Scotland reached record levels in 2018, the latest figures from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) show.

Generation in Scotland was 26,708 GWh, a 6.1% increase on the previous record in 2017.

This output of electricity is the equivalent of powering all households in Scotland for more than two-and-a-half years.

The latest statistics also show: • the growth of Scotland’s renewable electricity capacity continues – rising from 10.0 GW in 2017 to 10.9 GW in 2018

• 2018 saw a big increase in electricity generated via offshore wind, with capacity and generation both more than doubling compared to 2017.

Generation increased from 616 GWh in 2017 to 1,369 GWh in 2018. Capacity has increased from 246 MW to 623 MW Scotland’s Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse said: “These figures show Scotland’s renewable energy sector continues to go from

strength to strength. Last year, we were able to meet the equivalent of 74.6% of our electricity demand from renewable sources.

“Last year we saw the growing importance of offshore wind with capacity and generation both more than doubling compared to 2017 - with further projects under construction.

“Despite damaging policy changes from the UK Government since 2015, particularly in terms of impacts on onshore wind,

we continue to provide strong support for Scotland’s renewable energy sector.

Generation and infrastructure investment continues, not least because of the importance in preventing the damaging impacts of climate change.

“We will ensure the correct strategic decisions are taken to further support this highly valued sector, despite the difficulties created by unhelpful decisions at Westminster.”

Wind investment announcement underlines a powerful future for renewables The future of renewable energy has been given a vote of confidence by Scottish Power, who has just announced an investment of up to £2bn in the sector. In order to achieve its goal of making electric vehicles possible for everyone, the energy giant plans to increase battery storage capacity at its wind farms.

Scottish Power plans to invest in “smart grids” for customers to buy and sell electricity and deliver charging points for electric cars, amid a predicted shift away from diesel and petrol vehicles.

Scottish Power Chief Executive Keith Anderson said “We’re producing more and more green energy. One of the great things about investing in battery technology is, every time the wind is blowing, even if we’re not using all of the electricity, we’ll be able to store it and use it later.”

Savills said the latest Scottish Power announcement is in line with a general uptick in activity and interest in the

solar PV sector and a return of onshore wind after a few years in the doldrums.

Savills UK Head of Energy Nick Green said: “Renewable energy developers are looking to drive additional income from existing wind projects either through adding additional turbines or by co-locating with other technologies, for example energy storage or solar. Landlords who already have wind farms on their land have a real opportunity for additional income. However, they must ensure that the additional revenue driven by such commercial opportunities are properly addressed in their lease and in the rent clauses in particular.

“There remain a significant number of wind projects in the planning system, and with the return of development activity in the renewables market this number will only grow. It is easy to be blinded by the headline rents currently being offered, but a developer’s ability to deliver a project should be given equal

or greater weight than the rent alone. And if a historic project was previously mothballed, it would be

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well worth seeing if it now merits further exploration given the renewed appetite for wind.”

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science & technology

Amazone gets iF Design Award 2019 for AmaTron 4 A further design success for Amazone: the Amazone AmaTron 4 ISOBUS terminal has been awarded the coveted iF Design Award 2019. The intuitive handling and the unique, tablet style design of the terminal were picked out as being of an exemplary design in the industry.

The jury tested, in part, the new interface for itself and, included in its evaluation, the impression gained of the high degree of ergonomics. The terminal is a complete in-house development from Amazone.

For the aesthetic appearance, as well as the excellent operational functionality of AmaTron 4, the Amazone design team are responsible for this significant

design of both the hardware and also, as importantly, the user interface concept.

The AmaTron 4 terminal features simple and quick, tablet style navigation. Thanks to the 8-inch, low reflection, multi-touch, colour display, comfortable operation, even on the move, of complex machinery and machine combinations becomes a simple matter of course. The changeover between different applications has been, with the aid of the App-carousel, designed very intuitively. With just the swipe of a finger, the quick and easy navigation through the clearly structured operational menu is exceptionally straightforward.

The iF Design Award is internationally one of the most prestigious design prizes and recognises each year,

products from all fields that are outstanding, innovative, ergonomic and, of course, aesthetic.

New security feature locks thieves out John Deere is now offering a new PIN code locking system to help deter the theft of valuable GreenStar in-cab displays and StarFire satellite receivers. This has been designed to make it impossible to use the components if they are stolen.

Because of their popular ‘plug and play’ design, John Deere displays and GPS receivers have also become more susceptible

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to theft compared to some other systems on the market. Until now, they could only be locked and protected mechanically. To increase the level of protection, John Deere has therefore introduced the builtin PIN code lock, similar to that used on smartphones, for both components.

The PIN code for the display and the receiver can be entered via the John Deere display. If the user forgets the code, they can continue working for a limited period, up to a maximum of 72 hours. After this a Master Unlock Code is required, which can be easily generated in the StellarSupport online portal.

The customer’s MyJohnDeere login grants access to any John Deere component previously registered in their StellarSupport account.

The new PIN code locking system is now available for John Deere 4240 and 4640 Universal Displays and the StarFire 6000 receiver. It is bundled with the

recent 19-1 software update, which permits the upgrade of these specific displays and receivers.

The company’s agricultural tractors sold in the UK and Ireland, including the 6M, 6R, 7R, 8R and 9R Series models that are made in the company’s main factories at Waterloo in the US and Mannheim in Germany, are fitted as standard with the CESAR Datatag security system, as well as an immobiliser system whereby the key has a transponder unique to each individual tractor.

This means that while any other John Deere tractor key will still fit the door and ignition, the tractor won’t start without the proper key. John Deere was the first company to introduce the unique key system as standard on a full range of tractors in the UK and Ireland, in 2011. Other security related items are also available from dealers, such as lockable fuel tank caps and separate door lock keys, as well

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as immobiliser systems from the John Deere owned Vapormatic all-makes parts business.

In addition, all 7R, 8R & 9R Series tractors have JDLink telematics fitted as standard, with a one-year communications licence free of charge. In addition to the fleet management, machine optimisation, remote diagnostics & remote access functions, JDLink also includes the ability to geofence machines, so that SMS or email messages would be sent if the machine moved outside a predefined area.

JDLink also allows a ‘curfew’ to be set, which would again warn the owner if the machine was turned on during a pre-defined period (say, between 10pm and 6am). While this system is standard on the large tractors listed above, it is also available as a factory-fitted option on 6R Series models, or it can be field fitted on any other vehicle with a 12V power supply.

Investing in

People

Engineering student wins pig industry scholarship Engineering student Anita Woolf, from Peterborough, has won a £4,500 scholarship, under the Pig Industry Scholarship Programme operated by AHDB Pork and the NPA in conjunction with Harper Adams University.The funding, provided by Reading-based technology company, Farmex, will contribute to her study costs.

In July she will join the business in a placement position, as trainee process control engineer – giving her valuable practical experience. There she will be involved in everything from printed circuit board assembly to system specification for existing and new-generation Dicam control units.Already a recipient of a Douglas Bomford Trust engineering-based scholarship at Harper Adams, Anita is currently

studying for a BEng in mechanical engineering.“We are putting a lot of effort into encouraging young people into the industry and it is really good news that this engineer has recognised the importance of process control and the use of data in this sector,” said Hugh Crabtree, managing director of Farmex and chairman of steering group for the industry’s scholarship programme. Farmex both manufactures and markets advanced environmental control equipment which can monitor many key functions in pig and poultry buildings and crop stores, enabling farmers to check remotely and analyse their performance. Internationally recognised, it has developed markets in Europe and North America.

Bolus technology firm appoints veterinary scientist to bolster R&D plans Global trace element specialist, Agrimin, has shown further evidence of its commitment to research and development for the years ahead.

The Lincolnshire based firm has announced the appointment of an accomplished veterinary scientist, who will be commissioning and managing clinical trials.

From Glasgow, 29-year-old Callum Harvey has been confirmed as the company’s Technical Manager, coming from previous senior roles at the Knowledge Transfer Network, and Harbro.

A graduate in Veterinary Bioscience, Callum will take a lead on all aspects of new product R&D activity, as well as multi-disciplinary specialists across Agrimin, including animal

scientists, chemists, engineers, and regulatory experts.

He said: “I view this role as such a great opportunity to have a significant impact on the way in which specialist products are brought to market for our sector.

“It’s really exciting to know I’ll be working on every stage of the research and development, and getting a close understanding of what our clients truly want from the Agrimin products they have access to.”

A member of the British Society of Animal Science, Callum will be based at the company’s

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head office in Kirmington, North Lincolnshire.

Mark Armstrong, sales and marketing director, welcomed him to the role.

“He brings with him such a wealth of knowledge about the field of veterinary science and will play a major role in our next stage of research and development activity.

Established in 1978, Agrimin has 40 years’ experience in developing, manufacturing and marketing sustained release mineral, trace element and vitamin bolus technologies.

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beef Scotch Beef Hits the Big Screen Cinema goers across Scotland now have the chance to see Quality Meat Scotland’s powerful Scotch Beef PGI TV advert as it hit the big screen just last month As part of the £500,000 ‘Know Your Beef’ campaign, the advert aims to highlight the credentials, quality and sustainability of Scotch Beef whilst setting out the facts behind beef production.

Set to reach an audience of over 600,000 people, the advert will be played before films including Wild Rose, Yesterday, Rocketman and Downton Abbey from April until October.

Featuring butchers, farmers, chefs, auctioneers and vets, the 40 second musically-themed advert demonstrates how a range of trusted experts work together in perfect harmony to produce beef of the highest quality.

To create the advert, singers from the Scottish Association

of Young Farmers Clubs, the Scottish Women’s Institute and the Royal Highland Education Trust volunteers were all involved.

Quality Meat Scotland’s Marketing Manager, Kirsty Fox, said: “Although the new advert is already being shown on TV, we are so excited to take it to the big screen and show it to wide audiences across the country.

“We wanted our advert to tell a story, championing the experts at the heart of the Scotch Beef industry that work tirelessly every day to produce a high quality and trusted product. The narrative we chose really makes the story feel like a performance so it’s fitting to take it to cinema audiences who are eager to see something special.

“The ad represents the breadth of knowledge and depth of expertise behind the campaign and we are very proud of what we have

created. We hope that audiences enjoy watching the advert as much as we enjoyed creating it.”

The campaign, which also includes billboard, print, social media and digital activity, is expected to reach up to four million adults over March and April combined and is 100% focused on communicating what sets Scotch Beef apart, calling on consumers to ‘Know Your Beef’.

This includes highlighting the quality assurance behind Scotch Beef, the important role of beef production in enhancing Scotland’s environment and landscape and the industry’s welfare credentials.

For more information about the campaign visit www. qmscotland.co.uk and for recipe videos and inspiration visit www. scotchkitchen.com.

Winner of Scotch Beef Scottish Young Chef of the Year A top young Scottish chef was recently announced as the Scotch Beef Scottish Young Chef of the Year in a national competition run by Scottish Chefs.

Joe Reddie from St Andrews Links Trust faced stiff competition when he battled

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it out against five top young chefs in the final cook-off held recently at ScotHot, Scotland’s largest food, drink, hospitality and tourism show.

The competition saw each of the talented young chefs produce a three-course meal of their

choice plus one amuse bouche for four covers. These were judged by an experienced, expert panel who marked to a strict criteria including plate presentation, seasonality, provenance, quality and balance of flavours.

Chef Reddie impressed the judging panel by serving up Jerusalem artichoke soup, curry oil and crispy artichoke for the amuse bouche; fillet of halibut, seaweed butter, langoustine tart and broccoli for the starter; loin of Scotch Lamb PGI, carrot and apricot puree and spiced onion sauce for the main; and chocolate mousse, sea buckthorn, sponge and crème fraiche for the dessert.

“I am absolutely delighted to have won the Scotch Beef Scottish Young Chef of the Year Award,” said Chef Reddie.

“I was up against some really stiff competition and I couldn’t have done it without the support

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from everyone who was cheering me on at ScotHot and from my colleagues at St Andrews Links Trust.”

Claire Higgs, PR and Communications Manager at Quality Meat Scotland said: “It’s fantastic to see some of Scotland’s up-and-coming young chefs getting excited about using top-quality local produce such as Scotch Beef PGI and Scotch Lamb PGI. “Chef Reddie’s dishes were truly spectacular and they certainly tantalised the taste buds of the renowned judging panel.

Many congratulations to him.”

Kevin MacGillivray, Director of Scottish Chefs said: “The Scotch Beef Scottish Young Chef of the Year award really showcases the skills, innovation and culinary talent of some of Scotland’s young chefs which is exciting to see”.

beef ALDI leads the field in support of Scottish farmers

ALDI has been recognised as the strongest supporter of Scottish Beef after an NFU Scotland ‘shelf watch’ survey revealed almost 96 per cent of beef stocked on its shelves was Scotch Beef PGI. Over a two-week period NFU Scotland staff and members visited some of Scotland’s most popular supermarket chains to get a snapshot of the amount of home-produced beef available over imported beef.

ALDI received further praise for its domestic sourcing after the survey revealed the retailer does not sell any imported beef, with 100 per cent being sourced from Scottish or British farmers.

ALDI was the fastest growing retailer in Scotland last year, growing sales by an impressive 16.4 per cent, according the figures from Kantar Worldpanel.

As such, ALDI is now the sixth largest supermarket in Scotland with a 6.9 percent share of the Scottish grocery market.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of ALDI opening

its first store in Scotland and the 10th anniversary of the creation of its dedicated Scottish Buying Department. As part of ALDI’s ambitious plans for Scotland in its 25th anniversary year, the retailer aims to increase its range of Scottish products to more than 450 by the end of 2019.

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, ALDI Scotland, said: “We are absolutely committed to supporting Scottish farmers and I’m very proud that ALDI has been recognised as the strongest supporter of Scotch Beef ahead of every other supermarket. This means consumers can be confident that when they buy beef from ALDI, they are directly supporting Scottish farmers and are enjoying only the highest quality produce.

“ALDI continues to lead the way with local sourcing and we are immensely proud of our strong relationships with local suppliers and of our reputation for having the best quality Scottish products available on our shelves.”

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Scotland’s Top Butchers Go Head to Head in Butchers Wars Competition

Some of Scotland’s top butchers are set to battle it out next month when they go head-to-head in a new competition sponsored by Scotch Lamb PGI. The first Scottish Butchers Wars competition, run by Scottish Craft Butchers, will take place at the Scottish Craft Butchers Trade Fair on 12th May 2019 in Perth and will see the entrants enter the competition in two categories – singles and pairs.

To create theatre, excitement and crowd participation, the butchers will enter the competition area through a tunnel to their choice of rousing music.

The butchers will then have 45 minutes to break down a half saddle of Specially Selected Pork and a half Scotch Lamb and create a show-stopping display.

The competition, which aims to showcase the skills, talent and innovation of Scottish butchers, will be judged by three

highly experienced expert butchers who will mark to a strict criteria including butcher appearance, final appearance of their display, creativity, technique speed (butchery skills), wastage and food safety and health and safety.

The overall winner of the singles category will win £500 and the overall winners of the pairs category will win £250 each.

The Butchers Wars competition takes place on 12 May at Scottish Craft Butchers Trade Fair at Dewars Centre, The Ice Rink, Glover Street, Perth PH2 0TH. The pairs competition runs from 10.20 – 12.40 and singles 1.20pm – 3.40pm.

For more information on Scotch Lamb PGI including recipes, videos and tips, visit: www. scotchkitchen.com or follow Scotch Kitchen on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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livestock Paddock Grazing Success on Shetland Jamie Leslie has improved both grass and livestock performance on his Shetland farm since adopting better grazing management.

Jamie farms in partnership with his dad, John, at Scholland, Virkie – the most southerly part of Shetland, exposed to strong west and south-west winds and salt spray. They own and rent 230 hectares and contract farm a further 120 hectares nearby.

Jamie describes his land as the opposite to most of Shetland, which is peat and heather.

Although there is some peaty soil, the majority of his land is light and sandy, merging with the sand dunes along the coast.

He said: “The biggest problem we have is salt spray from the sea, which burns the grass and can really affect production.”

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The farms are stocked with 75 commercial AberdeenAngus suckler cows put to the Angus bull, producing female replacements and finished steers for the local butcher.

He added: “The butcher likes a 300 to 320kg carcase; last year we averaged 318kg at 19.1 months old for Angus steers and a few heifers.”

The cattle are fed a store ration during their first winter, to keep costs down, but last year when they were turned out to good quality grass, their liveweight gain was 1.83kg/day from the end of April to midJune.

Jamie said: “I have seen real benefits in finishing the cattle on a paddock-grazing system.

I hosted the Shetland Monitor Farm meeting here in August,

where people saw that, in one block, stocking density has increased by 50% and growth rates by 40% from 0.97kg/day to 1.35kg/day, simply by putting some hot wires up.”

The sheep flock comprises 850 Shetland cross Cheviot and Texel cross ewes and 200 followers, most of which are put to the tup as ewe lambs. Jamie explained: “Up until this year we bought in ewe lambs, put them to the Texel and kept the progeny, which then went to Suffolk rams.

However, I bought Highlander rams from Innovis to put over the Shetland/Cheviot ewes, and the plan is to keep replacements from them and eventually have the Highlander as my base ewe to avoid buying anything in.”

It was a big decision to move away from Shetland genetics, but the hope is the Highlander will produce a ewe of about the right size, which will scan at the required 170% plus and boost the percentage of lambs reared and sold per ewe, which is the real driver behind the change in genetics.

As chairman of the management group for the Shetland Monitor Farm, Jamie is keen to put into practice as much technology and as many management tips as he can. He has been paddock grazing for a

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couple of years, and regularly weighs and records his lambs and calves to monitor performance.

Grass quality has increased under rotational grazing.

Permanent grass samples taken in September showed rotational paddocks with an ME of 11.3 and crude protein of 20.8, compared to the set-stocked area which had an ME of 10.4 and crude protein of 15.1.

Jamie said: “The performance of the 2017 lamb crop was compromised in paddocks by making them tidy up too much grass, so in 2018 we used a leader–follower system, with ewes and twins leading and suckler cows and calves following. Lamb performance has been good, with that mob of twins averaging 39kg on 25th of August. That entire block of PGRS of paddocks will wean approx 500kg live weight per hectare this year.”

He said: “I pick up ideas from Monitor Farm visits from people such as John Scott, Trevor Cook and Michael Blanche; however, I am a member of various online chat groups involving farmers from as far away as Wales in the UK and even New Zealand. It is a bit weird talking to people on the other side of the world, but it is fascinating seeing what other farmers do to improve.”

livestock Protecting Animal Health A new £1.6 million centre for animal disease surveillance and research means faster, more reliable and more efficient diagnoses of livestock animal diseases for the whole of Scotland.

Based near Edinburgh, the new Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Veterinary and Analytical Laboratory expects to analyse more than a million samples a year.

Diagnosing disease faster has the potential to improve

response times to potential outbreaks to safeguard both animal and human health and protect the food chain Opened in March by Mairi Gougeon MSP, Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment, the SRUC Veterinary and Analytical Laboratory brings together new technology, robotics and human expertise to create a centre for excellence in animal disease surveillance and testing.

Cattle society boost for retired farmer network in Dumfries and Galloway

The successful Retired Farming Social Group in Dumfries and Galloway has received a fourfigure boost as it continues to grow its support for retired farmers and farm workers in the region.

At the recent Luing Cattle Society’s Annual Sale at Wallets Mart in Castle Douglas, their new chairman Mark Thomson (centre) presented Jill Rennie (left) and Willie Dunlop (right) from the Retired Farming Social Group with a cheque for £1000. The donation had been raised from the Society’s raffle held the previous night at its AGM and annual

Thanks to investment in new equipment and faster processes, more tests can be carried out.

Longer tests, which involve culturing bacteria, can now be done in under two days rather than six.

The SRUC Veterinary and Analytical Laboratory is based at the Moredun Research Institute at the Pentlands Science Park in Midlothian.

The laboratory brings together SRUC’s diagnostic and analytical teams from around the Midlothian area – as well as Perthshire and the Borders – into a single centre for the first time.

The new laboratory creates a closer working relationship between SRUC and the Moredun Research Institute. It is at the centre of a strategic partnership between SRUC and Moredun

to advance livestock health, welfare production, disease surveillance, and resilience through joint research.

The Scottish Government has supported the creation of the new laboratory through a low-cost loan from the Scottish Funding Council’s Financial Transactions Programme.

Ms Gougeon said: “The new SRUC central laboratory will enhance veterinary surveillance in Scotland and will create a centre of excellence at the Moredun Institute, further strengthening Scotland’s capacity and expertise in animal health.

The laboratory will help to protect and develop our valuable livestock sector and the contribution it makes to the rural economy, I look forward to seeing how this work progresses in the future.”

dinner in the Market Inn Hotel, Castle Douglas where Jill and Willie gave a brief history of the Retired Farming Social Group.

Thanking the cattle society for their generosity, Jill said “ As the group is now independent, this donation will go a long way in helping it to develop further and enable the growing number of members to participate in more outings. We would like to thank all the members, particularly the chairman Mark, the secretary Una MacQueen and Neil McGowan who suggested the Retired Farming Social Group for the donation.” www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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livestock

The

VET

Buying and selling cattle can link individual farms to thousands of other farms with each purchase Understanding the complex networks of “contact chains” between British farms could help identify potential routes for spread of infections and improve disease control strategies for the cattle industry.

A pioneering new study, led by veterinary researcher Helen Fielding from the University of Exeter, has examined the remarkable extent to which British beef and dairy farms are connected through cattle movements.

The research could help identify potential pathways for the spread of important cattle infections that can cause major health, welfare and economic problems for the British farming industry.

The researchers analysed patterns of buying and selling cattle on British farms using official records of 75 million movements of cattle between farms from 2001-2015.

Starting with direct trades, when one farm buys from or sells cattle to another, the researchers traced ‘contact chains’ that

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describe networks of farms linked by sequential movements of their cattle.

By looking at 12 month periods of trading, the study found that around half of all British cattle farms were connected to more than 1,000 other farms every year when they bought in cattle. 16% of farms were connected to more than 10,000 other farms in a single year.

When selling cattle, the contact chains were similarly extensive: Two thirds of farms were connected to more than 1,000 other farms. 15% of farms again linked to more than 10,000 farms in a single year.

The study found that on average from 2001-2015, over 13,000 British cattle farms had contact chains extending to more than 10,000 other farms by selling andmore than 10,000 farms by buying, in any single year. These super-connected farms could potentially be particularly exposed to infections and particularly able to spread them.

Its All for Show

By Andy Cant Northvet Veterinary Group So here we are in show season once more. Shows cover off so many functions; competition, education, and social and have a great tradition whether at local or national level. The showing of animals seems to divide the agricultural community.

There are the stalwarts who show every year, it often runs in families and must have a genetic component I think! - and then there are those who quietly just get on with running their business.

It is of course a hobby for many and there are many fanatics. Over the years the selection of animals for showing has mostly led to genetic improvement although there are examples of where fashion and breed standards have led to problems so it is an area where responsibility has to be shown. We are now at a point where the mapping of the genome allows a much more objective and predictable selection of animal traits, but that won’t

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stop showing and the thrill of winning in the ring.

So much of showing is just about the individual animal.

What about the farmer just quietly getting on with running his business? In this day and age it is perhaps this area where the competition and prizes should be.

Our produce is sold to an increasingly knowledgeable buying public and they are looking for reassurance on many things. So we need to SHOW well run farming enterprises, SHOW good production methods and environments, SHOW good animal welfare and husbandry, SHOW responsible use of antibiotics and medicines, SHOW an awareness of agricultures carbon footprint.

There is so much good work going on and ideas being put into practice. Lets not be shy at showing that off to the public but also to ourselves so that we can all be open to new ideas, strive for the highest standard and all be winners.

dairy ‘CowAlert for Researchers’ Set to Transform at Global Level IceRobotics, the Edinburghbased cow behaviour specialist, has launched a bespoke application which, for the first time, offers the agri-research market the ability to access, control and analyse unparalleled amounts of data.

Already being trialled in Europe, the USA and New Zealand, ‘CowAlert for Researchers’ offers a real-time data gathering and analysis experience. It scales up the power of CowAlert’s established monitoring and alerting modules, enabling researchers to control and analyse their own data or combine it with data from a large number of commercial farms.

IceRobotics has described the product as the’ single solution for daily cow monitoring and research’, offering researchers a less labour-intensive monitoring

system which can be tailored to their own specific requirements.

A unique feature of CowAlert for Researchers is that it enables researchers to control the data collated by CowAlert and export it out of their own system, allowing for data merging and larger scale statistical analysis.

CowAlert’s proven technology has been developed through years of dedicated research by IceRobotics.

Available commercially to farmers for 7 years, it uses a unique rear leg-based sensor to continually monitor the health, lameness and fertility of each animal. It then alerts the farmer to any potential issues, significantly enhancing health and productivity through improved decision making.

The launch of CowAlert for Researchers takes the product to a new level, giving the research community access to the hours

of data already stored in the CowAlert cloud which they can analyse in their own way.

Catherine Malcolm, Research Sales & Support, IceRobotics said: “This system is effectively transforming the way dairy

research is done. With the ability to export and analyse large volumes of data, it makes the job of largescale dairy research much easier and more efficient, in essence it offers vast amounts of useful data at the press of a button - at any time and in any place”.

Strategic Dairy Farm network secures £1m funding to support expansion AHDB has been awarded £1 million from the Betty Lawes Foundation to expand its strategic dairy farm network. This new financial support means the total size of the network will increase to 25 farms across Great Britain.

The Foundation is the charitable trust set up by Betty Lawes, the wife of Dick Lawes who was the founder of Volac.

This funding will support AHDB to recruit and manage an additional eight strategic dairy farms across Britain over the next five years.

In September 2017, AHDB announced plans to recruit nine strategic dairy farms. Last summer Lesley Griffiths, Rural Affairs Minister for the Welsh Government announced that an additional eight strategic farms will be recruited by AHDB in Wales. This is part of the Dairy

Improvement Programme funded through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme.

This further expansion of the network is a core part of the Dairy Productivity Collaboration established in 2018 as an Industry / Government partnership. The collaboration is chaired by Andy Richardson, corporate affairs director at Volac and aims to improve UK dairy productivity.

It identifies opportunities and barriers to deploy practical strategies for the benefit of the industry.

Welcoming the funding from the Betty Lawes Foundation, Gwyn Jones, AHDB Dairy Chair, said: “This is a step change for British dairy farmers and a significant investment in their future. Our collaborative approach means we can

showcase excellence across the industry with a larger spread of farms across Great Britain.

It will mean more farmers can access the benefits that strategic dairy farms offer. ” Speaking on behalf of Volac, David Neville, managing director of animal nutrition, said: “As a family business, Volac is delighted to play a leading role in the Dairy Productivity Collaboration and through the Betty Lawes Foundation, provide support for the strategic farms approach.”

Each of the farms will follow AHDB’s strategic farm model and represent either all-yearround or block calving systems.

They will showcase bestpractice, host on-farm events and each farm will openly share their figures against AHDB Dairy’s key performance indicators (KPIs).

Applications will close on 19 May 2019. For more information on strategic farms, including how to apply, please visit dairy.ahdb. org.uk/technical-information/ strategic-dairy-farms

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE Subscription page 151

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dairy The M2erlin just got smarter: new app allows remote monitoring of milking robots Fullwood Packo has launched a smartphone app which enables dairy farmers to remotely monitor the performance and functionality of their M2erlin automatic milking systems, enabling them to make swifter and smarter management decisions to the benefit of herd productivity and their own work-life balance.

The M2erlinInfo app enables users to view real-time and historical data of each cow’s milking records, or for the herd as a whole, from any location and at any time via a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. Parameters such as milk yield, number and duration of milkings per day and time of last milking are easily accessible, with users also able to compare 10day and 24-hour yield averages, thereby allowing them to measure productivity and make informed management decisions on a cowby-cow or whole herd basis.

The app also delivers a series of alarms and warnings to alert the farmer/herd manager of potential problems – either with the milking machine or an individual cow – and gives users easy access to the robot’s cleaning records and maintenance schedules, thus ensuring each M2erlin is working as efficiently and hygienically as possible to safeguard milk quality and integrity.

“The M2erlinInfo app has been designed to enable dairy farmers and herd managers to monitor the performance and functionality of their M2erlin robot(s) and to provide instant access to a range of useful performance indicators and key system alarms in one easy to use package,” explains Rik Schoenmaker, Director of Sales and Marketing for Fullwood Packo. “The app’s easy to read

dashboard presents a wealth of practical data in a user-friendly format which can be used to manage each M2erlin machine more effectively and more promptly with the ultimate aim of producing more milk from healthier, happier cows.”

The M2erlinInfo app also warns of any deviations in terms of cluster attachment timings and milk captured during the first two minutes of milking to provide an immediate warning of potential problems, thereby enabling swift remedial action to be taken.

New blood in genomic ranking includes UK-bred sires A brand new number one genomic sire and two UK-bred half-brothers in the top 10 are amongst the highlights of the new Profitable Lifetime Index (£PLI) ranking, published today (2 April 2019) by AHDB Dairy.

Leading the way is Denovo 14566 Crosby, one of the highest production sires of the Holstein breed, and predicted to transmit 1,027kg milk and combined fat and protein of a massive 74.7kg.

He impressively combines this

in his genomic index with superb udder health traits (-30 Somatic Cell Count, -3 Mastitis), good daughter Fertility Index (+8.4) and high Lameness Advantage (+2.8). This underlies his high daughter lifespan of +0.7 and his PLI of £863. A son of DG Charley, he is out of a Rubicon dam.

Crosby replaces the former number one sire (Pine-Tree CW Legacy), who has been taken off the list due to unavailability in the UK. Remaining in second place is Denovo 7921 Atrium (PLI £861), also from the Denovo breeding programme. Atrium is a high fat percentage bull (+0.21%) with very favourable daughter Maintenance (-12), indicating lower maintenance feed costs for his progeny. This ABS Achiever

son also scores well for daughter fertility (+12.5) and lifespan (+0.6).

In third place is the second new entry since the December release, De-Su 14673 Appeal (PLI £856), another son of Achiever with a very similar breeding pattern to his paternal half-brother.

Climbing into the top 10 with a PLI of £846 is fourth placed VH Bosman Bahrain. This Danishborn sire transmits high protein (33.1kg, +0.11%), has excellent maintenance figures (-16) and favourable direct calving ease (+1.5).

In fifth place is Bomaz AltaCabot (PLI £842) who moves into the top 10 with high fat transmission, a very favourable Lameness Advantage (+2.8) and good udder health figures. (continued on page 112)

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dairy Simple System Reaps Rewards for Dairy Farmer Roberta Dunbar Meeting with Roberta Dunbar at Cromlet Farm, Airdrie, North Lanarkshie is quite an experience The odds have often been against her, yet hard work and determination has led to a very successful operation. Her Barncluth herd of 85 pedigree British Friesians has proved conclusively that there is more than one way to make a profit from dairy farming.

Although situated in a less favoured area, and despite topographic and climactic challenges, the latest annual accounts list a farm income of £224,000, realising a profit of £43,000. This is not a “one-off” figure, having made a nett profit of £50,000 the previous year.

The farm has been owned by the Dunbar family for 120 years.

After her parents died, Roberta bought out other family members to help her keep the 100 acres, and to rent an additional 80 acres.

At that time in 1988, the herd numbered 35 non-pedigree British Friesians Since then, the herd has been up-graded to full pedigree status with an increase in numbers to 85 milking cows and followers.

“We were milking in an old abreast parlour, and mucked out by hand – very hard work I can tell you” says Roberta. “Nine years ago we bought a second hand herringbone parlour, which not only speeded up the milking time, but cow health and welfare subsequently improved.”

Roberta workswith her partner, Gordon Smith and she has invested in a new purposebuilt 50 cow rubber- matted cubicle shed with automatic scrapers. The cows are sawdust bedded, and receive silage from an external feed passage. The dry cows are bedded on straw and also receive a calcium dry cow bolus, which she reckons gives then a bit of “va-va voom!”

The herd (CIS recorded) averages 8,100 kgs of milk @4.13 butterfat and 3.331% milk protein.

Production levels continuously improve, averaging 31 litres in March 2019 compared to 25 litres in March 2018.

This herd does very well on a simple feeding system, and Roberta has been working very closely with Davidson’s Ruminant Nutritionist, John Rogers for over 25 years. “ John and Davidson’s have been such an important part of the success of the business” says Roberta. “ John advises me on everything from dairy herd nutrition to on-farm costings.”

“I advised feeding the cows with Davidson’s Galaxy GT 18% protein concentrate in parlour, twice daily” explains John. “Most cows receive 5 kgs per milking, although some of the high yielders producing 50 litres per day receive 8 kgs at each milking. Concentrate use is 0.39p per litre, with a 12 month average cost of 9.5p per litre.”

Davidson’s Animal Feed Specialist, John Rogers with dairy farmer Roberta Dunbar

The herd is fed a silage ration through a feeder wagon. 2018’s silage provides Maintenance +4 litres with an analysis offering 29%DM, 11.1ME, and 71.5D value. The silage is made by a local contractor.

Dry cow management is very important at Barncluth, and they are housed and fed in a special transition shed, receiving a ration of hay and silage, plus 2-3 kgs of Davidson’s Total Dry Cow nuts.

“We sell Limousin x Friesian animals privately to local buyers and receive £350 to £400 for a heifer, and between £250-£350 for a 12 week old bull calf, and have a tremendous demand for the beef X calves, and these good

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prices helps with cash flow” explains Gordon.

The Barncluth herd is winning major awards at British Friesian competions, winning the Best Heifer Award. Their home-bred bull, Barncluth Arrival has recently taken the Friesian cattle world by storm. He offers very impressive production figures of + 698kgs of milk and 15.3 kgs of protein and is classified Ex91 points.

Roberta loves her British Friesian cows – “ my girls” as she fondly calls them, and both her and Gordon has proven that hard work, dedication plus a simple, well advised feeding system can turn a financial profit many dairy farmers will envy.

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dairy Another high kg fat transmitter makes his debut in sixth position – Denovo 8084 Entity (PLI £837).

Entity also transmits good daughter fertility (+11.2) and has a good calf survival score at +2.9.

Maintaining his top 10 placing is seventh ranking Wilra ABS Amplify (PLI £836). In equal eighth place is Peak AltaLeap, an outstanding udder health bull (-31 SCC, -4 Mastitis), as well as an excellent transmitter of daughter longevity (+0.8 Lifespan).

In an unusual development, two UK-bred maternal halfbrothers run neck and neck just six £PLI points apart, to round off the top 10. Bred by the Boghill Glamour syndicate from the north of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, leading the duo is Boghill Glamour Persuade (PLI £833)

by Westcoast Perseus, ahead of Glamour Boghill Victor by Pinetree Verona. Their dam is a Cogent Supershot daughter from the wellknown Larcrest Cosmopolitan family.

Arla’s farmer owners mean business when it comes to climate change Europe’s largest dairy co-operative, Arla Foods, has announced that by 2050 its operations from cow to consumer will: · Be carbon net zero, with any unavoidable emissions (for example, from farms) entirely offset by improvements elsewhere in the supply chain · Balance nitrogen and phosphorus cycles to support clean water systems · Be even more closely aligned with nature to further increase biodiversity across Britain’s countryside.

These new targets come after the co-operative, owned by

Dairy industry’s highest accolade awarded to Tony Evans Andersons consultant and dairy farmer Tony Evans formally received the RABDF Princess

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Royal Award in a presentation at Buckingham Palace, by Her Royal Highness, earlier this week.

Receiving the award for his lifetime contribution to, and outstanding achievements in, the dairy industry Tony Evans says it was a great honour to be chosen and hopes his work will help nurture the next generation who are the future of our industry.

Mr Evans is recognised on a national level for his work in setting up discussion groups, business courses and joint ventures and admits that his flagship achievements include organising Nuffield Dairy study tours and the Entrepreneurs in Dairying courses run by the RABDF in conjunction with Andersons, AHDB Dairy and the NFU. “One of my main concerns is how we are educating youngsters because as an industry we focus too much on technical excellence when instead we should be looking at real business sense

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– it’s vital to remember it’s not about producing more, but utilising capital better.”

Across his three farming enterprises Mr Evans employs eight staff, all of whom are from the UK, with the majority coming from non-farming backgrounds.

“All of the discussion around labour can either be taken as an issue or opportunity – we have capitalised on the latter and from that have created a business structure that educates and rewards employees, providing them with a great work life balance without reliance on automation.”

Mr Evans was chosen as the recipient of this award by the RABDF Board of Trustees who unanimously recognised his dedication to the industry and the crucial role he has played in educating and aspiring the next generation of dairy farmers through a number of initiatives.

10,300 farmers across the UK, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands, and Belgium shows business growth can be achieved without environmental impact. While Arla has managed almost 50% more milk since 2005, its CO2 emissions have reduced by 22% across production and packaging; on farms CO2 emissions per kilo of milk have reduced by 24% since 1990.

Arla Foods UK Managing Director Ash Amirahmadi comments, “One of the greatest challenges facing us all is providing natural, nutritious food for a growing population whilst reducing our collective impact on the world around us. Arla has already shown this is possible and the new ambitions announced today will ensure Arla’s farmers, production sites and products continue to play their part in developing a sustainable world for everyone.”

Whilst the targets are ambitious and will require radical changes across its business in the decades to come, Arla believes they are possible given the rapid pace of change in technology and ever-increasing on farm efficiencies. Arla’s UK examples of best practice have already proven this: · The first carbon net zero milk processing facility in the world: From 2015 to 2018 Arla cut the annual emissions of carbon from the UK’s largest dairy at Aylesbury by more than half, or by 15,000 tonnes, by switching to using biogas. It has since created a circular economy for its Aylesbury operations working with Olleco and McDonald’s as shown in this video. · 424 tonnes of potential food waste redistributed to Fareshare: Arla has entered into an agreement with FareShare to redistribute surplus products via its networks to frontline charities who prepare meals for vulnerable people. In 2018

Arla provided 424 tonnes of dairy products to FareShare, enough to make just over 1,000,000 meals for people in need · A 48% reduction in Arla’s UK plastic carbon footprint: that’s equivalent to 72,937 tonnes since 2005 or taking over two million 4pt milk bottles off the shelf. Arla has achieved this by making 84% of the products made in the UK recyclable, reducing the weight of its standard milk bottles by 25.5%, and using up to 40% recycled plastic in them · Thinking responsibly in everything we do: No palm oil is used in Arla products made in the UK. Where it is required in products made outside of the UK all palm oil and palm oil products come from 100 per cent RSPO certified growers that have been independently verified.

The WWF cites Arla as leading the way in its buyers’ score card · Applying our co-operative principles to nature: Being part of a co-operative means working together. Arla’s farmer owners work with the nature around them to apply the best environmental measures for the land they farm. This means while every Arla farmer works differently, they are all working for a more sustainable world.

Arla farmer owner Jonathan Sharp comments, “Every day Arla farmers take steps to support and shape Britain’s countryside. No one feels the effects of varying weather patterns more than farmers, it has a direct impact on the animals we care for, the food we produce and the money we make. We’ve taken some big steps at Arla, but we can’t take our feet off the pedal. Every business and individual in every walk of life will need to think about their impact on the world in the years to come.”

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NFU Scotland

dairy

A decade is a very short time in farming terms

By Zander Hughes, South Dundonald, Cardenden.

Vice Chairman of NFU Scotland Next Generation Group

In September 2012, myself and my wife Laura, became starter farmers, and took up one of the first Forestry and Land Scotland (formerly Forestry Commission and Forestry Enterprise Scotland) -year Limited Duration Tenancies in Fife.

We have all exceptionally hard since then to build up a viable business, farming without any Basic Payment Scheme support until 2015.

In the seven years since we took up the tenancy, we have implemented a realistic crop rotation, imported a significant amount of organic matter, and have carried out lots of work on the steading to enable grain to be dried and stored.

In order to meet the financial demands of running the unit, we have significantly diversified our business into agricultural contracting and we now sow in excess of 1,000 acres annually, as well as contract spraying around 10,000 acres. We also have a contract with Frontier Agriculture to carry out mobile seed potato treatment that so far this year has treated around 2,700 tonnes for growers across Scotland.

Contracting has given us a moveable business in case we have not found another opportunity by the time our LDT comes to an end in 2022.

Finding another opportunity beyond 2022 remains my priority, and in order to progress this I have applied to NFU Scotland’s Joint Venture Hub. I am hugely encouraged by the initiative shown by

NFU Scotland in establishing the Joint Venture Hub to act as a matchmaker for those looking for and those offering opportunities. It is my hope that the Hub is supported by all as a means of creating opportunities both for people like myself, as well as for others who are considering retirement or scaling back.

It was stated at the outset of the Starter Farm process that there would be no continuation of the lease after the initial 10-year period, and that by then a tenant should have sufficient capital to move on to a larger opportunity.

If either Forestry and Land Scotland or the Scottish Government has a plan for the way forward, then I believe this needs to be aired to tenants now to allow time for business planning and restructuring to occur. I along with others now have young families, and we are anxious to plan ahead for their sakes.

Given the continued chronic shortage of tenancy opportunities, we have asked Forestry and Land Scotland to confirm that 2022 remains the end date of our lease, or if opportunity exists for a renewal. We have been firmly assured that no extension will be given, and that Forestry and Land Scotland wishes to restart the new entrant process.

To us, this seems to go against the entire vision of the starter farm scheme. If there are no continuation steps available, then the entire starter farm process has been a waste and there seems little point in repeating the process?

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sheep Texacloth, committed to the best wool prices lan Walsh, buyer and soon-to-be operator of Texacloth, took some time out from his busy schedule to have a word with SCRUM about wool and, of course, rugby.

“Business is going well despite some uncertainty in the marketplace, which is caused by Brexit. It has affected the really big companies, the ones who deal in over 20 million kg of wool, but because we’re a small family-run operation, it means we can still deliver the same quality of price to farmers,” said Alan.

“Texacloth has always been about trying to get the best possible price to our valued farmers ; at the end of the day that’s our main priority.”

Alongside brother Roy, Alan Walsh is taking over the reins of Texacloth from his father, Aidan, who founded the business back in 1972. Alan describes

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the ‘changing of the guard’ as being something that has taken a little bit of time but he’s understandably very optimistic about the future, adding: “We have an exciting vision for Texacloth, working closer than ever with farmers to ensure they get the very best wool prices.

In order to do this, we want to concentrate on local wool being sold to exactly the right people, which means staying clear of the world markets.

“This will allow, for instance, someone that wants to buy Scottish highland wool to be able to do just that.”

Being Irish, the recent Grand Slam success was celebrated in apt style by the Walsh family.

Alan, who has recently hung up his boots for the first team in Dunkeld, was actually in Dublin to see the Ireland versus Scotland match, which is understandably

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sheep enjoyed: “It was such a crucial game as everyone thought Scotland were a real threat, which they were. It was a good win for Ireland and of course beating England at Twickenham on St. Patrick’s Day for the Grand Slam was unbelievable.”

Texacloth have depots across the UK, and further afield, and can point to over 40 years of experience in the wool buying Trade. A family business, they pride themselves on creating and maintaining very close relationships with farmers and those associated with the wool market.

Texacloth is looking forward to a new season of wool buying for 2019.

“We are committed to bringing the best price to the farm gate for our customers especially in this uncertain environment.”

Continued Alan.

“The China trade is very slow and has been for two years now. Hopefully that will pick up at some point although not looking like it right now, we are seeing a bit more interest there.

Inquiries are always good but we need the Chinese to commit with

orders not just inquires. Most of the Bradford traders we deal with are in the same boat, it’s a bit of a waiting game”.

“As this is the first year we will be buying wool as two brothers running a business rather than a bigger family run operation from Ireland it is interesting times for us”.

“We have a few new outlets for our customers and have a few things for in the pipeline that should in the future secure great business for us and all our farmers. I would like to think once the UK government sorts out what it is doing the future we are going to with Texacloth and our market partners will be a good one for all involved’.

“We now have to strive to make sure that our business always moves with the times to secure the best prices for our farmers. With the market at a low at the moment we can only see it getting better, it’s only a matter of time before it rises and with that rise let’s hope that wool becomes more widely used as the great natural fibre it is”. Said Alan.

For more information: www. texacloth.co.uk

UK sheep producers urged to protect lambs from spring disease threats Sheep pregnancy scanners across the UK have reported variable results over the winter with some flocks in some areas carrying 20% to 40% fewer lambs than last year. Farmers are therefore being urged to protect every newborn lamb this spring from preventable disease threats.

“It looks like lamb numbers may well be down nationally this year, but if we get a kind spring weather-wise that will certainly help producers maximise the number of lambs reared, which www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Calling young shepherds!

By Maime Paterson Upper Auchenlay, Dunblane Sheep provide young people with opportunities start their own business as farmers or as providers of sheep services. The National Sheep Association also provides opportunities for young people and since 2014 has invested in young shepherds through its Next Generation Ambassador programme.

It’s an annual programme designed to develop skills and confidence and enable 12 young shepherds to improve their business performance, communicate effectively and to put themselves forward for leadership roles within the sheep industry. One of its first graduates, hill sheep farmer, Jennifer Craig was recently elected as chair of NSA Scotland. Jen farms in south Lanarkshire in partnership with her father and readily credits the Next Generation Ambassador programme with giving her the confidence to speak on behalf of NSA members in Scotland.

NSA investment in the sheep industry’s youth continues in 2019 with its offer of 2 travel bursaries

in memory of the late Sam Wharry, past chairman of the organisation. The NSA Samuel Wharry Award is sponsored by the Company of the Merchants of the Staple of England. Candidates must be aged 21 -34 and have an interest in the practical application of sheep sector science and technology, which was of particular interest to Sam who was also keen to attract young people into the industry.

Successful candidates will each be offered a bursary of £2750, and study trips to the destinations of their choice await them.

A 2019 NSA Sheep Young Shepherd of the Year competition takes place at Highland Sheep at Sibmister Mains in Caithness. Farquhar Renwick from Wester Ross, one of the youngest competitors at the 2017 event at Kinnahaird, went on to represent Scotland in an international young shepherds’ competition at the 2018 Paris Show. So to all young shepherds the question is - where might NSA take you?

sheep is what counts. However, what sheep producers simply cannot afford to do is lose more lambs to easily preventable diseases,” says sheep vet Phillipa Page from Flock Health Limited.

Ms Page says that farmers facing a lower lamb crop must not react to a depressed productivity challenge by skimping on essential vaccinations that will protect young lambs

against diseases that can cause significant mortalities.

“Clostridial diseases and pasteurellosis are both silent killers. Typically, the first sign a farmer will see is a dead

lamb; sometimes losses can be catastrophic.”

“In an era when proven and highly cost-effective vaccines are available, no lamb should die from a clostridial disease,” she adds.

NSA alerts sheep industry of likely U-turn on promised changes to carcass splitting rules The National Sheep Association (NSA) is highly frustrated that planned change to carcase splitting rules for lambs born in 2018 onwards are likely to be abandoned.

At a meeting for industry bodies hosted by Defra in March it was announced that Defra Ministers and the Chief Veterinary Officer are concerned about the effect of introducing this change on the possible need for the UK to regain an EU third country listing in the event of a no deal or a delay to Brexit negotiations. Prior to yesterday, the sheep industry had been given assurance by Defra that the change had been signed off at a UK and EU level and would be implemented as soon as the Food Standards Agency (FSA) was ready. This was further strengthened last autumn by a ruling from the EU that clearly allowed member states to choose their own system of ageing sheep for TSE controls.

Given the uncertainty that has been evident over the last two months, NSA is keen to inform the sheep sector and red meat industry of recent developments.

This is a subject NSA, working collaboratively with other farming and processor bodies, has been working intensively on since 2015.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker comments: “I agree fully with the absolute need for the UK to maintain or regain third country listing with the EU. This is something NSA has been warning about for months, 116

as access to the EU market is crucial, not just for the sheep sector but for other farming and food sectors too. But in November 2018, then Farming Minister George Eustice gave a statement giving the carcase splitting change the green light and this was followed by a written statement from Defra in December informing industry that approval had been given and the change would be introduced in spring 2019, to include lambs born in 2018. We were told a risk assessment had been done, everything had been cleared and, as the weeks progressed, we were being led to believe all we were waiting for was FSA to agree implementation procedures.

“This U-turn this has raised the question of trust in Ministers, especially as it comes just days after Mr Eustice’s resignation from the Cabinet. He wrote to me shortly after the referendum boldly saying that if the EU won’t allow us to change our method of ageing then this will be one of the first things we will change when we are no longer a member state. We are now told that if we are no longer members of the EU, we don’t have the ability or latitude to make that change.

“Anyone still thinking that departure from the EU will result in freeing agriculture from nonsensical rules and regulations should think again. We have been told now that formal legislative change is needed, and this will require a consultation to take place. This is the first time we

have heard anything about this, and it leads me to conclude there

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is no way this can take place this season.

TRAINVIEW TALK We might as well start with the dreaded ‘B’ word… I attended a Brexit meeting in Kirriemuir recently and the best guess to the outcome, I would have been better watching private Fraser from Dads Army on loop repeating, ‘We’re doomed…!’ rather than listen to the experts smugly tell us farming is facing oblivion, interesting times are ahead but farmers are resilient and no doubt new opportunities for those willing to accept change and adapt.

One message was that the cost of production of beef is far too high in the UK and there is no quick fix to change that.

At the recent Aberdeen Angus Secretariat tour in Uruguay delegates were shown how cows are smaller and fleshier, finished on grass with carcass weights 220-250kg with the focus being on quality. The UK Angus CEO had 28 steaks on the trip so they must have been tasty! Should the UK beef industry be worried? If as predicted the UK is a prime target for the South American pack houses… so we should be concerned! Their skill as breeders to produce a consistent product cheaply with the endless supply of grass the world is there for them to take over, ironically with the Angus at the fore front.

Back home calving has started at Trainview with three beef shorthorns and an Irish Moiled calved to an AI synchronisation. Things going pretty well so far except for a mystery broken leg on a week old calf, so a quick trip to the vets. Thankfully it’s a clean break on the lower leg so it should make a full recovery.

Another new arrival is a Shorthorn cross to a 23 month old Simmental Cross Highland heifer, calved unassisted, now that’s production! The cross Highland cow is such an under rated beast. If we had the land we would have a herd of them.

We have swung round to spring calving as back end

DIARY

Trainview Talk Our new diary page

By James Cameron who runs Trainview Livestock with partner Valerie Orr calving wasn’t working for us.

We have just completed an AI syncro on the remaining Autumn calvers so they should calve in January and the rest from April onward, this should help us batch calves better for selling.

Fixed-time AI works for us with usually just one insemination at 56 hours or on observed heat and we regularly achieve 75% hold which will jinx it now but we are lucky to have a good local inseminator.

Many areas in Scotland now have no AI coverage which must be very frustrating but these guys could always buy a bull (hint hint!).

The Native Angus cows at Dunlousie are starting to go outside which is always a welcome sight and breaks the winter routine. A wee burst of calving here too which went really well with the hardest job being tagging them, never under estimate an easy calving sire with moderate birth weights.

For the May sale at UA Stirling we have two shorthorn bulls entered and they’re the first we have offered at auction. After the tough trade in the spring hopefully things will improve with farmers just holding off spending money, though

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the latest statistics show a further decline in the suckler cow herd. It’s a shame to see the amount of farms without stock and empty hills and glens, it can’t be healthy long term, fences falling down and rushes and ragwort taking over. Perhaps an opportunity to take a leaf out of our South American friends book and focus on quality grass fed native beef versus what a late friend of mine would have called barley fed ‘plough oxen’.

The show season is coming round and we have a couple of females to show round the local shows starting with Fife. We are yet to show at the Royal Highland Show as a week away with two kids under two would be worse than taking a big string of cattle. But I will have my name in the catalogue, well in partnership with Fiona Menzies and her Highland pony and my deer saddle in the working harness section.

I bought it on a whim one day at a local auction so after some restoration I’m glad to see it get a turn out. After years of bringing stock out for other folk its nice have my name in the catalogue for something….our own cattle will follow someday. We’ll still get down for a couple of days, it’s always good to see the best of the livestock at the best show in the UK and catch up with people we only really see once a year.

One difference as the years roll past is in 1967 the Durnos from Uppermill won the Interbreed with a shorthorn bull which weighed 1350kg. 30 years later the Simmental champion from Finlay McGowan weighed 1440kg the difference being nearly 2ft in the height of the cattle, which one is better?

Both were products of their time and one wonders if today’s market could use them. Some will say one is too small and others will say the other is too big….. canny please abody!

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pigs

Marry Pigs Pig Farming through the Generations The late Jack Marry was a well-known legend in Irish pig farming and operated several very successful farms, producing up to 55,000 pigs a year. He was regarded as one of the most successful pig meat producers in Ireland. This tradition has been carried on by his three sons Gareth, Colin and Jonathan who each manage their own successful pig farms. Colin who farms at Little Grange near Drogheda is on the Board of The Irish Pig Health Society and is a member of the European Pig Producers committee.

Jonathan, who also farms near Drogheda in Co. Louth, won

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the Macra na Feirme FDB Young Farmer of the Year competition in 2015 and is active in the Pig Health Society and the IFA Pig Committee. Jonathan also runs an extremely successful catering business – The PigSpit & BBQ Company – www.pigspit.ie.

Pigspit.ie provides top quality Pig on a Spit for Weddings, Private Functions & Corporate Functions of all sizes around Ireland. Pigspit.ie were finalists in the 2019 Weddings Online Awards and have grown considerably over the past three years. You can check their menus out at: https://www. pigspit.ie/sample-menus/

Gareth, the oldest son, focuses his energies on his Kentstown pig farm which is based near Balrath in Co. Meath.

He manages a modern and highly efficient 520 sow, birth to bacon unit along with his team; Áine Comiskey, Mark Armstrong & Philip Dunne.

Est. in 1984, the sows are loose housed and the piggery is a well-run operation, as 27 pigs are sold per sow, per annum with an average sell weight of 115kgs. There are approx. 300 pigs weaned per week and when they are moved to first stage, they are fed on AOne feed, based in Tyrone. Gareth uses genetics

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from PIC Ireland in Fermoy for his damline genetics and Hermitage AI based in Tipperary for his terminal genetics.

Sows on the Marry farm are serviced 100% AI and mainly on a wet feed computerised system and are accommodated in naturally ventilated houses.

The farm is situated in a predominantly tillage area, which results in a strong local demand from beef and tillage farms for slurry. This means that Gareth does not have to use a slurry tank on the farm.

Gareth’s constant focus is to improve the existing farm and as such, with a keen focus on

pigs the costs of feed, he made the decision in 2017 to construct an on-site home feed mill. He believes that home mixing of feed improves the quality of the pig diets and gives more control over the ingredients being used.

The mill commenced production in June 2018. It includes the Big Dutchman system which was installed by I.D.S. in Portlaoise.

Gareth contracted McAree

Engineering to install five 50 tonne V-Mac silos and this work was carried out in January 2018.

This allows the storage of the pig feed ingredients to facilitate the manufacture of 3,700 tonnes of pig feed per annum.

The Marry family have a long-established relationship with McAree Engineering spanning 40 years and have purchased in excess of 30 feed silos from McAree

Engineering throughout this time.

According to Gareth “visitors to the farm comment on the quality of the build and the strength of the steel in the McAree animal feed silos”. Gareth says that “we believe McAree make the best bins that last longer, give a very good service and can customise the bins as required. Also, they can fit different ladders, safety rails etc.

When the need arises for feed bins

in the future, I will be returning to McAree Engineering.”

Gareth believes this recent investment in bulk storage positions Marry Pig Farms Ltd. well for future growth, providing them with increased flexibility and capacity to add value to the pig enterprise. www.vmacsilos.co.uk Local Agent Paul Winder 07779 185562

Get a flu jab now, pig farmers advised Pig farmers are being urged to check that they, their families and their staff have up-to-date flu vaccinations, as a matter of urgency, or risk devastating consequences to their herds.

This follows a WHO warning that another flu pandemic is inevitable. It “is a matter of when, not if”, according to a Reuters report.

“Although it is spring, the threat of flu is ever-present. In the past couple of weeks, we have had reports of two cases involving units with 2,000-3,000 sows, where flu strains are being investigated,” said Geoff Hooper of Hysolv Animal Health.

“Vets have told me that they see flu in pigs when the pigmen or women are suffering from the disease,” “The pig is regarded as a potential ‘mixing pot’ and the flu virus can at times spread from man to pig and vice-versa.”

Surveys have shown that the pandemic H1N1 strain of swine flu is particularly prevalent in the UK and Ireland, compared with other European countries.

The symptoms include fever, coughing, breathlessness, apathy as well as abortions and returns to oestrus and can be particularly severe when occurring at the same time as PRRS (Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome).

Economic losses can be considerable.

There are commonly several strains of swine flu, including H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2, but there is no effective therapy once the virus is circulating in the herd. As in humans, pig farmers should focus on prevention by vaccination.

“The message is quite simple, if you keep pigs you need a flu jab,” said Geoff.

Drop in pig numbers in Scotland The Agricultural Census taken last December showed that the total number of pigs kept in Scotland had dropped from 382,000 to 333,000 since 2008.

This is a decline of almost 50,000 in a relatively short space of time.

In my view the decline of pig numbers is largely due to the availability of adequate pig abattoir capacity after the closure of Halls. This initially resulted in a decline of sow numbers but more importantly pigs are

now being moved South to be finished in England, which is a lost opportunity for the Scottish Industry.

During this time, according to AHDB, the average UK indoor unit has reported a profit per pig in the same number of years as it has made a loss. The wild fluctuations that have been seen in the market over these years have created a very difficult environment for producers to reinvest in new breeding and finishing facilities.

Even during these uncertain times, the Scottish Industry, in conjunction with QMS, has been working hard to eradicate pig diseases such as Mange and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS).

This drive to remove disease from Scottish farms will help make their businesses more resilient. Rather than relying on continued use of antibiotics and vaccines a large number of farms in Scotland have undergone expensive depopulations and

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repopulations with clean stock, something which they should be commended for.

Removing disease from Scottish pig farms is an ongoing process and a long term goal for the industry, entirely supported by the Union and the Pigs Committee.

This forward thinking is what the industry needs to be able to survive in this volatile market.

However, to truly reverse the trend of declining pig number in Scotland, we need to increase our slaughter and processing capacity.

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exotic farming scotland

Glorious Garlic

By Janice Hopper Garlic is a relatively everyday product found in most kitchens, but when it comes to sourcing actual garlic producers in Scotland, it’s a very rare beast.

There’s only one garlic farm in Scotland, and a mere handful across the UK. To seek out this exotic harvest north of the border, all roads lead to Craggie Farm in Nairn.

Craggie is the home of the Really Garlicky Company, the brainchild and passion of farmers Gilli and Glen Allingham. Gilli is a Leiths trained cook and Glen comes from a family of potato farmers. When the Allinghams took over the family farm in 1999 they were looking to make their own mark and diversify. Potato consumption was decreasing generally, as the general public supplemented their menu with rice, pasta, quinoa and couscous, so the Allinghams were primed to try something new.

At the same time, the Scottish Agricultural College was looking for farmers to take part in crop diversity trials, and garlic was suggested. Much of the UK’s garlic purée comes from China, and the bulbs from Spain, but as the public became increasingly interested in food provenance and buying local, the Allinghams realised that there could be an appetite for Scottish garlic. The first few years of trials were labour intensive for the couple, with all of the garlic hand-planted, and hand-harvested, and it became apparent why few people across the UK grow it!

“Garlic is like a fussy onion,’ explains Gilli, ‘It can’t grow in ground that onions have grown in previously as it’s exceptionally susceptible to viruses. This rules out great swathes of land across the nation. We’re a bit more isolated in Nairn, our soil was unsullied, 120

Gilli & Glen Allingham

and it’s fertile - garlic is a very hungry plant. Secondly, it was impossible to get good advice about growing garlic in Scotland because nobody else was doing it. We were truly on our own.

There were no mentors, nobody to aspire to or even imitate. In fact, we were as likely to get bad advice as good advice, because tips that work overseas simply don’t work here.”

The Allinghams sourced growers in Canada who supplied them with Hardneck Porcelain bulbs, with the hope that the extreme weather in North America would have similarities with the Scottish seasons.

“The Hardneck Porcelain grew well in Nairn, and once I tasted it I knew we were onto a winner,’ says Gilli. ‘The flavour is excellent, much sweeter than your usual commercial garlic, it’s relatively easy to peel, and

without the bitter aftertaste often associated with the plant.”

After two years of trials, the garlic was ready for sale, but the couple had to get their message out there. They received a marketing grant from Highlands and Islands Enterprise in 2000 to establish a brand, select a name,

Really Garlicky Bulbs

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design a logo and website. To this end ‘The Really Garlicky Company’ was launched in 2001 and it’s the only grower of Porcelain Garlic in the UK. “We initially sold our bulbs at local farmers’ markets. We were already regulars, selling our potatoes, but customers would sometimes question carrying a 5kg sack of tatties back to the car. Being able to offer garlic that was so unique to Scotland, and portable, was a good move.”

As the popularity of the garlic grew, so did the couple’s dedication to the bulbs. In 2001 the crop was 1.5 acres, and today they’re sitting at approximately twenty acres. Mechanisation soon followed, but this brought its own challenges. Garlic harvesting or planting machines aren’t readily available, so it’s often a case of adapting pieces of existing machinery. For example, the Allingham’s harvester is an adapted leek harvester imported from Belgium. Whilst Glen focussed on the technicalities of farming the garlic, Gilli, with her background in cookery, took the step into food production.

“The food production started as we wanted potential customers to sample our garlic and discover how sweet it tasted, so I created the garlic butter and garlic bread.

exotic farming scotland People then began asking where they could buy these products, therefore creating and selling Really Garlicky breads, butters, oatcakes and relishes felt like a natural progression. When we started out garlic was still often seen as quite a foreign, exotic food. It’s much more accepted now, a household basic. ‘Really Garlicky Garlic’ is grown, packed and distributed direct from the farm hence giving us full traceability over the crop so people know where their food is coming from. We are members of the ‘Assured Produce’ scheme and ‘LEAF Marque’ the environmental scheme. All our products are free from artificial additives or colourings, and we only use Free Range Eggs.”

Ultimately it’s a team effort.

Macleans of Forres make the Really Garlicky Oatcakes, the Caledonian Curry Company of Bonar Bridge produces the relish, and the range also includes garlic rub, aioli, butter, ciabatta and ‘Eazy Garlic’. The ‘Really Garlicky Company’ has received several awards, it’s been visited by Rick Stein, but despite a great reputation

Craggie Farm is as fallible to the Scottish weather as any other.

“2018 was a tough year,’ says Gilli. ‘We plant in October, and the garlic grows roots over winter into Spring, but we had such a tough, wet, cold Spring that the root system was stunted. So when the drought hit in the summer, whilst others enjoyed the long, hot days, our plants required irrigation and they struggled.

However hard you work the weather can always surprise you.

2019 should provide a much richer harvest. Hopefully!”

The Allinghams have a packed itinerary this year. As well ordering produce online, it’s possible to catch up with the family at multiple events, from Taste of Grampian and the Scone Game Fair, to the Black Isle Show, Belladrum Music Festival and the Turriff Show, to name a few.

“It’s twenty years since we started our garlic journey,’ concludes Gilli. ‘We’re learning all the time, we’re really proud of our products, and delighted to offer Scots homegrown garlic.”

Green bulbs 2016 harvest

reallygarlicky.co.uk

The ‘Really Garlicky’ products

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Game on. The Scottish Game Fair returns with a jam-packed schedule The GWCT Scottish Game Fair, in association with NFU Mutual, returns to Scone Palace Parklands with a plethora of events and spectacles… are you game?

Now in its 31st year, the GWCT Scottish Game Fair is preparing to welcome thousands of people to the event over three days, July 5th - 7th. Organised by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust this fantastic celebration of conservation and countryside offers competitions, main ring events and ‘have-a-go’ activities, all while raising vital funds for research into game and wildlife throughout rural Scotland.

As well as birds of prey and terrier racing, The Main Ring, in association with Brewin Dolphin, will host the Jez Avery Stunt Show, which is sure to be a great attraction for all visitors. Working hill ponies will compete for the popular Fred Taylor Memorial Trophy and there will also be a full programme of clay shooting, fishing, gundog and scurry competitions, with lots of opportunities for expert tuition.

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Time to shoot The ever-popular shooting area offers a range of experiences and competitions for experts and beginners alike. There is a great range of disciplines to suit or challenge all, and all at affordable prices. These stands are set up for novices to come and try the Clay Shooting experience, which is this year organised by Pentangle Shooting Services and Buchan Field Sports. There is no age restriction - it doesn’t matter if you’re eight or 80 - everyone is encouraged to give it a go. There will be qualified and friendly instructors to look after you, with a gun that suits your needs while all clays, cartridges and safety protection are provided.

The British Association of Shooting & Conservation will also be at hand in the shooting area, offering a full range of

shotgun coaching, including the BASC “Safe Shot” award, which recognises your knowledge of shotgun safety and gun handling.

This year BASC is bringing the ST-2 Shooting Simulator, aimed at improving the shooters skills and enjoyment of the sport. Guns, cartridges and safety equipment are provided.

Meanwhile, clay shooting competitions run throughout the weekend with entries open at 10am each day at Shooting Control where full details of rules, entry requirements and prizes can be found.

in their working gear. We are fortunate to have John Rigby & Co. as our main sponsor this year, who will give a stalking rifle to the winning estate.

Fred Taylor Memorial Trophy London gunmaker John Rigby & Co. is once again sponsoring the sixth annual Fred Taylor Memorial Trophy for Working Hill Ponies.

We are again proud to host the very popular show of Hill Ponies

All about dogs The Four Nations International Gundog Competition takes place on Saturday July 6. Now in its third year of being an international event, the competition - sponsored

by Skinner’s Pet Foods - features

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Ladies who lunch… and shoot!

Saturday is Ladies Day and following the huge popularity of last year’s ladies clay shooting competition, for 2019, those wishing to participate have the option to purchase a special Ladies’ Shooting Package in advance. The package includes entry to the fair, clay shooting and lunch for just £46.00.

SCOTTISH GAME FAIR 2019

retrievers and spaniels in separate categories. Last year’s overall winner was England, followed by Scotland in second place.

Meanwhile, dog owners of all breeds are encouraged to take part in the scurry competitions held daily. The competition simulates the requirement of a dog to mark a shot bird and to retrieve speedily to hand, using two dummies. There are generous daily prizes for Open, and Junior (<17) entrants and a trophy for the fastest time over the three days.

Ramp up your off-road skills In 2019 Isuzu will again provide a fantastic off-road driving experience that utilises the river island – and it will be completely free to have a go.

Isuzu focus on proper pick-ups which means they’re much better at meeting specific pick-up needs.

The Multi-Award Winning Isuzu D-Max is a game-changing pickup that’s made to work. The turbo diesel engine produces 164PS and 360Nm of torque whilst meeting Euro 6 emission standards without the need for AdBlue plus it delivers 3.5 tonne towing, 1.1 tonne payload and over 40MPG combined (all manual models), making the Isuzu D-Max a true workhorse not a show pony.

Birds of prey await During Elite Falconry’s two flying demonstrations in the Main Ring on all three days of the Fair, they will be flying birds from all across the varied spectrum to show tremendous variety, from some of the smallest, to some of the largest birds.

Up for the challenge?

Scone Estates will be hoping to retain their title as Winners of The Estates Challenge. The event, sponsored by Algo, covers shooting, fishing and gun dog handling and was conceived to promote and celebrate the many Estates and Keepers who work so hard to conserve Scotland’s beautiful countryside and provide high quality country sports. The little ones needn’t miss out either as our kids’ Junior Macnab challenge makes a return after its inaugural year.

Get hooked on Fisherman’s Row The fishing area will feature fishing demonstrations from industry experts, a casting clinic and competitions such as fly-tying on the banks of the majestic river Tay. Fisherman’s Row leads from the Game Fair Main Ring down to the bank of the Tay, where thousands of anglers descend each year.

Become a member This year the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust will focus on the pathway that can help moorland managers create and maintain

thriving moorland with its ‘Three steps to heather heaven’ exhibit, in the heart of the Trust’s ringside stand. This very visual and practical exhibit will include live red grouse, black grouse, ptarmigan, hill fringe grey partridges and working hill ponies, alongside colourful displays and the kit required for successful moorland management.

Visitors are encouraged to become members of the Trust to further support the great work the team does for game and wildlife conservation. Visit www.gwct.org. uk/join for more details.

The GWCT Scottish Game Fair Friday 5 July, Saturday 6 July and Sunday 7 July, 2019 at Scone Palace Parklands, Perthshire.

To book tickets, sign-up to take part in a competition, and for more information, go to www.scottishfair.com Advance tickets For a 10% discount on gate prices, please head to the website and buy your tickets beforehand. £20 – adult price; £18 advance • £5 – children (5-15 years, under 5’s free); £4.50 advance • £42 – family (2 adults, 2 children); £38 advance • £39 advance – couples package (2 adult tickets, 2 show guides & free Gold Parking) • £36 - two day pass is available; £32 advance • £55 - three day pass is also available, allowing entry to all three days of the Fair; £50 advance www.scottishfair.com

Don’t miss out on a chance to win!

Our headline sponsor, NFU Mutual, will have a central stand (Partridge Row 2) giving you all the opportunity to chat to the local Agents and find out more about their vast range of products and services over some lovely refreshments.

They will also be sporting the famously intriguing ‘Guess What?’ game. So head along to be in with the chance to win a luxury hamper.

Visit NFU Mutual’s website to find your nearest agent www.nfumutual.co.uk.

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estate YoungsRPS Expands Services in South West Scotland YoungsRPS, the independent firm of chartered Surveyors, Land Agents and Property Consultants, has announced an expansion in South West Scotland, following strong demand for their specialist agricultural services in their Dumfries office.

Located on the outskirts of Dumfries, new offices will be opened on Monday 15th April to accommodate a growing team and ever-increasing work

load, which is seeing increasing demand particularly for farm sales and acquisitions, specialist tenancy negotiations and grant applications advice and support, particularly BPS (Basic Payment Scheme).

The new location offers a central base for YoungsRPS services to the rest of the region, and sees the company relocate from its current office at Thornhill. This new office, close to main road links, also allows

CPC WE PAY YOU! for DEER and VERMIN control on your land

YoungsRPS to service additional clients and will be located at Lochar House, Heathhall, Dumfries, DG1 3NU. Commenting on the expansion, Tom Oates, Director of YoungsRPS, said: “The YoungsRPS business has been built on a foundation of people who have a deep understanding of agriculture and farm business issues.

“Recent years have been challenging for all sectors, and farmers have sought support and advice from reputable businesses to help them negotiate the fastchanging business conditions faced.

“The management of a modern farming business often requires a team of specialist individuals to ensure efficiencies

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Insurance and references provided Call Billy

CALDER PEST CONTROL

07790 332874 124

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are maximised, and YoungsRPS work with farmers to achieve this, be it through land sales, a successful tenancy agreement or a grant application. Our growth demonstrates how this support is in increasing demand and we are thrilled that farmers place their trust in our team to assist them in managing their business’ future.”

“At the moment, we are seeing a high level of interest in advice on BPS applications, slurry storage grants and rent negotiations. We have also seen good interest in farm sales.

In fact, in the first 12 months, our Dumfries office completed over £5 million worth of land transactions, which, given the current climate, shows continued confidence in the farming sector.

estate “Working in collaboration with the regions farmers is immensely rewarding, and I am excited to be growing our business alongside some incredible farm managers. I am very positive about the future and the success of the farming industry.”

The Dumfries office will be staffed full time, Monday to Friday, 9AM to 5PM, by Michael Halliday, Farm Business Consultant; and Susan Peacock,

who will be joining the team as Administration Assistant.

They will be supported by Director of YoungsRPS, AMC agent and RICS Approved Valuer, Tom Oates, and will offer an extensive range of advice, including property sales and lettings, valuations, landlord and tenant issues, legal assistance, property and farming projects, planning and development and estate management guidance.

2019 ‘Helping it happen’ Rural Awards open for entries People across rural Scotland are being urged to share their stories of the work done by local estates, farms and landbased businesses to help their surrounding communities flourish, as nominations for the 2019 Helping It Happen Awards get underway.

Following two successful years, organiser Scottish Land & Estates has declared the Helping It Happen Awards 2019 open for business. The national Awards, which aim to recognise the role of estates, farms and rural businesses in enabling and supporting success in rural areas helping rural Scotland thrive, will once again be sponsored by The MacRobert Trust.

In 2018, winners from the length and breadth of Scotland, from Orkney down to Selkirk and almost every region in between, took home a coveted trophy and are now encouraging other rural businesses to enter.

To celebrate the launch of the 2019 awards, David Johnstone, Chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, visited Philiphaugh Estate near Selkirk. Philiphaugh Estate won the 2018 Enhancing Our Environment Award for their peatland restoration project which took place at Dryhope Farm on the estate; linking upland peatland restoration with the salmon fishing on the River Tweed - from catchment to catching fish!

David Johnstone said: “Rural Scotland is a hotbed of innovation, conservation and passion and the 2019 Helping it Happen Awards aim to reward the commitment of those who are helping to grow and sustain rural areas with their skills and dedication.

“We want to highlight and celebrate the significant positive contribution land-based businesses make in rural areas throughout rural Scotland – in particular, the ways in which they add value to support the local economy and the environment for the wider benefit of they provide environmental benefits for the wider community. We’re were incredibly pleased proud with the success of 2017 and 2018 awards of the success of the awards over the past 2 years, and look forward to recognising and rewarding even more worthy businesses this year.

“We urge people up and down the country to submit their entries for this year’s awards - the quality of entries last year was exceptional, and we are looking forward to receiving this year’s crop of stories. I am sure the judges will have a tough task in narrowing down the shortlist once entries close in July this year.”

Graham Bichan of Orkney Ice Cream spoke about his win in the 2018 Rural Business category: “We were absolutely delighted with our win. Our

New records set in 2019 Big Farmland Bird Count A fantastic effort from UK farmers has helped secure the best-ever Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Big Farmland Bird Count (BFBC).

Results show 1,400 people – a 40% increase on last year – recorded 140 species over 1 million acres between 8 and 17 February.

Encouragingly, 30 redlisted species were recorded, with 5 appearing in the most-commonly seen species list including fieldfares, starlings, house sparrows, yellowhammers and song thrushes, with the first four seen by over 30% of those taking part.

In Scotland, 61 farmers recorded 93 species across 57,881 acres. The mostcommonly seen were blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, pheasant and robin. A total 18 red-listed species were recorded.

Last year in Scotland 43 farmers recorded 79 species across 32,424 acres.

The five most abundant birds seen in the UK count were woodpigeons, starlings, lapwings, blackheaded gulls and rooks. A total of 148,661 were spotted, nearly 50% of the total number of birds recorded.

The average farm size of participants across the UK was 739 acres, with 66% growing arable crops, 52% having beef or sheep, and 13% growing field vegetables. Other types of farms including dairy,

horticulture, poultry and pig producers also submitted counts.

The BFBC was launched in 2014 to highlight the positive work done on farms gamekeepers to help to reverse the decline in farmland birds. The count reflects the effect of any conservation work being instigated by farmers on their land, like scatter feeding through winter or growing crops specifically to provide seed for birds.

Dr Dave Parish, Head of Lowland Research, GWCT Scotland, said: “It’s encouraging that more farms took part this year than last, not just in Scotland but over the UK as a whole.

The more participants there are the better we can determine the health of our on-farm wild bird species.

The GWCT is grateful to NFU for sponsoring the BFBC, delivered in partnership with FWAG Association, LEAF, CLA, Kings and NFU Scotland.

To view the UK results in full, visit www.bfbc.org. uk/2019results

(continued on page 128)

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estate

Unlocking value from your land Agriculture is under constant pressure. With Brexit still looming and the reliance on EU subsidies, further uncertainty is ahead. A farmer’s largest asset is often their land, however land prices have continued to increase (by over 300% in the last 20 years). These values often significantly outstrip the returns taken from the land.

Many landowners see opportunities ahead to adapt their farming business to help safeguard their future, either by generating additional income streams from changing farming practices, or from diversifying their asset portfolio to help bolster the ever changing agricultural market place they now face.

There is a constant demand for housing of all tenures across the UK, with the current need across Scotland being 30,000 new homes requiring to be built each year. Less than 18,000 are presently being built each year.

In order to achieve this level of housebuilding, up to 2,500 acres of brownfield and greenfield land needs to be brought forward.

Now is the time for landowners to review their land assets, seek advice and look to unlock the value in their land from selling with benefit of residential planning permission.

This could unlock a multi-million pound injection into a farming business, allowing it to invest in 126

its other farming assets as well as diversifying the asset base, so that the business is better placed to deal with a more uncertain agricultural future.

Strategic Land Gladman adopts a partnership approach to strategic land, focusing on the landowners requirements and optimising value by securing planning consents on potential residential development land. Our in-depth knowledge of the complex and rapidly evolving planning system makes us the ideal partner for landowners keen to promote their land. Through rigorous research and an analytical understanding of housing land supply, we are able to identify and promote sites which are often suitable for early housing delivery. Once planning permission has been secured, Gladman works with the landowner to offer the land for sale to a range of house builders through a competitive tender process, ensuring the landowner receives the true value of their asset.

The Gladman Scotland Strategic Land Team With a dedicated team of inhouse town planners, Gladman Scotland has the skills and ability to quickly assess opportunities and develop the correct strategy to successfully promote residential schemes.

Being based in Scotland, our team is well placed to respond to the particular challenges and knowledge of the Scottish planning system and local housing markets. The expert in-house team of professionals includes planners, surveyors, solicitors and engineers who work with a dedicated external team of master planners, ecologists, highway consultants and specialist planning lawyers.

Why Partners with us?

The landowner and Gladman agree a relatively short period of time within which to successfully promote the land.

All the landowner’s costs of entering into the Promotion Agreement (PA) are met by Gladman.

Included within the Agreement is a planning strategy which sets clear targets for when an application/ plan representations will be lodged. Once signed, Gladman coordinates and fully funds the in-house team and external consultants to implement the planning strategy. At all times the landowner is kept updated.

Prior approval is secured to the content of all planning applications and representations made by Gladman on behalf of the landowner to emerging strategic and local development plan processes.

At the point of successfully securing a planning permission

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for housing a sales strategy is agreed with the landowner.

Because this is on an open market basis, best value for the land is achieved. With the exception of the eventual land sale fees, Gladman is responsible for all of the costs incurred throughout the whole process all of which are neither refundable nor deducted from the eventual land sale price.

The costs of promotion typically range between £100,000 and £250,000, often more if an appeal is necessary. We are rewarded only when the land is sold. The title of the land remains with the landowner up until the point of sale and the landowner can continue to use the land as before throughout the process.

Following our successful track record of delivering early planning permissions we are looking for new opportunities throughout Scotland typically of between 5 and 20 acres. We are a well-resourced team able to appraise land quickly and thoroughly, providing outline planning strategies to those parties interested in unlocking value from their land. If you have land that you would like Gladman to look at then please contact.

Email: land@gladman.scot Tel: 01506 424920 www.gladman.scot www.linkedin.com/company/ gladman-scotland/

estate

small family business has grown and diversified over many decades and we are constantly working to modernise and develop every facet to keep up with trends and industry demand, as well as keeping an eye on the future and how we can best serve our customers, the community and the environment

through our production methods and business model. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This recognition of our progressive approach and our achievements to date means a lot and we will continue to wholeheartedly support Helping It Happen and its work to champion rural businesses throughout Scotland.â&#x20AC;?

Estate management experts merge to develop rural services Galbraith, a leading independent rural property consultancy, and Land Factor, a specialised rural estate management company, has announced the two firms have merged.

Galbraith is a long-established company with particular expertise in the rural estate market, acting for clients in Scotland, the UK and internationally.

Land Factor provides land management services from its offices in Northumberland and Cumbria.

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The merger, which took effect on April 1, will see Land Factor becoming a fully integrated part of Galbraith.

Land Factor personnel will continue to serve the needs of existing clients as part of the Galbraith team.

Iain Russell, chairman of Galbraith, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are delighted to be merging with such an established and successful firm as Land Factor. Both firms currently operate across the border and joining forces will

estate enable us to provide enhanced rural services across a wider geographic area. Land Factor has been particularly strong in both estate management and forestry and our combined skills should deliver greater benefit to clients.”

Tom Warde-Aldam, director of Land Factor, said: “We have taken great pride in building a successful firm offering specialist estate and land management services and becoming part of Galbraith will enable us to not only continue providing these services but to explore new opportunities.

“Both ourselves and Galbraith have for many years been committed to an ethos of being independent companies providing the highest quality of personal service. These shared values, plus having greater strength and depth, will serve the interests of clients.”

Galbraith and Land Factor believe there are many challenges and opportunities in the rural sector with inevitable changes in farm subsidy regimes and ever-increasing regulation and compliance requirements impacting across the rural sector. Athole McKillop, one of the founding directors of Land Factor, and current chair of Confor, notes that there are opportunities to capitalise on the strong performance of the forestry sector, with new planting reaching levels not seen for decades and strong timber prices encouraging more active forestry management across all types of woodland asset.

Do you have cats on your farm?

If you live in or close to a wildcat priority area, there is a chance that cats on your farm may interact with wildcats. This winter our project partner WildCRU fitted GPS collars to several wildcats and the results are showing that both the male and female wildcats use farms, farm yards and outbuildings, most likely in their search of shelter, mates, den sites and rodents.

Wildcat numbers are now desperately low, and at this time of year wildcats are searching for mates.

Unfortunately, they can often only locate feral or domestic cats, which increases both the risk of hybridisation and exposure to infectious diseases. It also means there is a greater chance of finding

wildcat or hybrid kittens on your farm.

Unlike domestic cats which can have three litters per year, wildcats breed just once, between January and March and kittens are born between April and May. Den sites include hay barns, outbuildings,

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brash piles or cairns. The mother will hunt round the clock to provide for her kittens.

If you see a wildcat or find kittens on your farm that could be wildcat or hybrid kittens, please get in touch with us at landmanagement@ scottishwildcataction.org.

If you have cats living on your farm that are not neutered or vaccinated, these could also contribute to wildcat hybridisation and disease transmission. As we all know, cat numbers can also quickly get out of hand.

This is of particular concern to sheep farmers where toxoplasmosis can have serious implications at lambing time. If you have unneutered cats on your farm and you live within one of the Wildcat Priority Areas (Strathbogie, Strathpeffer, Northern Strathspey, Morvern and Angus Glens), we may be able to help with TNVR (Trap, Neuter Vaccinate and Release) or you can contact your local branch of Cats Protection, or the Scottish SPCA, if you live elsewhere. www.scottishwildcataction. org 129

2019 HGHLAND FIELD SPORTS FAIR 2019 will see the 41st running of the Highland Field Sports Fair which will take place on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd August, 2019 at Moy Hall Estate, Moy, Inverness with the kind permission of Mrs Celia Mackintosh of Mackintosh.

The event takes place within the grounds of Moy Hall which are adjacent to Moy Loch and provide the Fair with an iconic and beautiful setting which is very positively commented upon by the many visitors who

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come along every year to enjoy the vast array of entertainment, shopping and activities that are on offer.

The Fair is a non-profit making event and all surplus funds are distributed to local and national charities and deserving causes. The event is planned and organised by a Committee of local volunteers under the chairmanship of Mr James Campbell supported by the Team from Strathmore Event Services Ltd and preparations for

this year’s Fair are already well underway.

“Over the last forty years we have also been privileged to support participating clubs that run the events each year. The commitment from hundreds of volunteers makes this fun family day possible and very enjoyable.” says James Campbell.

The Fair offers a diversity of entertainments and activities for all of the family and attracts around 7,000 – 8,000 visitors over each of the 2 days of the

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event, although an attendance of over 10,000 visitors has been reached in the past.

Whilst the emphasis is on Field Sports activities with competitions in Gundog handling, the ever popular Clay Pigeon Shooting and Fly Casting at Anglers Corner on the picturesque waters of the loch, there are many other activities for everyone to enjoy. There is a Gun Dog Scurry area where anyone can enter their dog to retrieve a ‘marked dummy’ over a fence in

2019 HIGHLAND FIELD SPORTS FAIR

scrub. This is really great fun and prizes are on offer for the winners.

Bring along your dog and give this a go – you will really enjoy the fun of this competition.

Other activities that can be enjoyed are Archery, Air Rifles and Catapults, Musket Shooting and ‘Try a Gun’ where novices can ‘ have a go’ using various different types of shotguns under expert instruction and guidance.

There are various Children’s activities available around the arena along with Pony Rides and a Children’s Pet Parade in the Main Ring and also a Child Crèche facility where there are other activities on offer.

All of this is supported by a comprehensive Main ring of entertainment varying from Pipe Bands, an excellent Farrier demonstrations, a Foxhounds Display, a fascinating Birds of Prey show performed by the staff from Elite Falconry, Tug of war competition which is always fiercely contested, a display of Gundog handling and the very popular Terrier racing competition which is fast, exciting and sometimes unpredictable. Come along and enter your dog into this very entertaining Main ring event – you will not be disappointed.

As well as the entertainment there are over 160 Trade Stands on site offering a wide variety of quality merchandise for sale.

Everything from high quality clothing and footwear, indoor furnishings, garden furniture, vehicles, land equipment as well as a wide range of animal related products. There are also a number of Advisory stands offering

information and advice on land and property management as well as some excellent art related stands which offer some wonderful exhibits. There is really a vast selection of merchandise for sale and something to suit everyone’s taste and preferences. Come along and enjoy an excellent shopping experience – you will not be disappointed with what is on offer.

In addition to this there are three Craft Marquees on site which offer a variety of specialist individual craft related products for visitors to enjoy and purchase. Many of these craft products are made locally and this is a great opportunity to view the products in relaxed surroundings and enjoy the detail of the work that is presented.

Many of our visitors always enjoy a visit into the Food hall where there are many exhibitors offering a wide variety of different food and drinks for sale. This is always a very popular location within the Fair with sumptuous food and drinks to be enjoyed.

Whilst walking around the Fair site, you will find a variety of various Food Outlets where visitors can enjoy choosing from a variety of different types and drinks or food whether for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon snack and then sitting looking over the loch whilst enjoying the food on offer – there is nothing better and more relaxing.

There is also a main Catering Marquee on site where more food and drinks are on offer

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and visitors can enjoy a welldeserved seat there whilst enjoying the various excellent food options that are available.

Adjacent to the Catering Marquee is the ever popular Licensed Bar where friends and colleagues often meet up for a drink and a chat.

All in all there is something at the Fair for all tastes whether that be for food and drink.

Overall the Highland Field Sports Fair is great day out for all of the family.

For more information please visit the fair’s website (www. moyfieldsportsfair.com) or finds us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Please come along and visit the event at Moy this year – you will not be disappointed!!

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forestry Wood properties and uses of Scots Pine in Britain A new research report highlighting the qualities of timber from Scots pine and promoting its greater use has been published by Forest Research (FR) and the Forestry Commission.

Authored by FR’s Dr Paul McLean, who specialises in functional biomechanics of trees, biometrics and the growth of trees for forest products, the report is aimed at forest scientists, engineers,

wood processors and end users of wood products. It covers distribution of Scots pine, wood properties and uses of Scots pine, and suitability for different end products.

The report collates and synthesises research into the silviculture, the mechanical properties and use of Scots pine timber in Great Britain, and intends to promote greater use of the only UK-native conifer species that is grown for timber.

Andy Leitch, Timber Development Policy Advisor with FCS said; “Scots pine is the second most abundant conifer grown in the UK. Around 600 000 m3 of Scots pine is harvested annually in Great Britain, approximately two-thirds of which is in Scotland.

“It can thrive on dry sites, it has more durable heartwood than other conifers and its clearwood mechanical properties are better than those of Sitka and in

some cases can match those of Scandinavian grown Scots pine.

It’s unique properties and qualities make it a highly versatile and adaptable timber that can be used in a wide range of applications.

Printed copies of the report cost £10 each and are available from FC Publications. For order information or to view and download a PDF version of the report (stock code FCRP029), go to www.forestresearch.gov.uk/ publications.

New guidance for foresters on protecting water quality Protecting the water environment during forest operations is the focus of a new Forestry Commission Practice Guide.

Providing advice to forest managers, planners, practitioners and supervisors on how forest operations should be planned and managed to protect the water environment, the guide will help ensure that they comply with the UK Forestry Standard Guidelines on Forests and Water — the primary source

of information on the legal and good practice requirements.

Dr Tom Nisbet, the technical author and lead expert in forest hydrology for Forest Research, said: “The environmental benefits provided by trees and woodlands are increasingly recognised and valued by society, including their positive impact on the water environment. As well as protecting aquatic habitats and species, they preserve the quality

of drinking water, alleviate flooding, and guard against erosion, landslides and the loss of soil.

“Unless specific care is taken, forest operations can result in soil and vegetation disturbance that can very quickly reverse all of those positives and result in damage that is economically and environmentally costly.

“It is vital that we adhere to good practice and manage our forests, woodlands and

trees sustainably to protect these environmental goods and services.”

Printed copies of the guide (which include 5 supporting cab cards) cost £15 each and are available from FC Publications.

For order information or to view and download PDF versions of the guide (stock code FCPG025) and cab card (FCPG025c), go to www.forestresearch.gov.uk/ publications

Thousands of species at risk from native oak decline Oak trees have long had a reputation for supporting a range of biodiversity, however, research published today has uncovered just how many species depend on British oak to survive. The decline of these iconic trees, currently threatened by pests, diseases and climate change, could put a total of 2,300 species at risk.

A £1.25m study called ‘Protecting Oak Ecosystems’ has produced the most comprehensive list yet of all species known to use native oak trees. The 2,300 total species are made up of invertebrates, birds, mammals and fungi, to name just a few. This figure does not include any of the bacteria and other micro-organisms that are associated with oak so the 132

real number, although unknown, is likely to be much greater.

Lead author Dr Ruth Mitchell, of the James Hutton Institute’s Ecological Sciences group, said: “Our really old large oak trees support the greatest number of species. We are currently benefiting from trees established hundreds of years ago.

“We hope that this work will help us start thinking now about how our woodlands could look in hundreds of years and the biodiversity they might support.”

The project found of the total number of species affected, 326 were completely dependent on oak, with 229 being highly reliant on the tree. Examples of such species included the

moth oak lutestring, fungi oak polypore and the beetle oak leafroller. These 555 species were considered most at risk from a decline in oak health.

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The work has been published in the journal Biological Conservation and is available at : https://doi.org/10.1016/j. biocon.2019.03.040.

Beatha an eilean Sgrìobhadair, Andy Holt Coimisean na Croitearachd Tha e air a ràdh “far a bheil beatha, tha dòchas”. Agus gus “cumail a’ dol a’ dol” le croitearachd air eilean beag ann am buidheann de dh’eileanan iomallach, ’s e dòchas a’ chiad so-mhaoin agus an so-mhaoin as deatamaich ris am feum an croitear cumail. Tha seo fìor de thuathanaich uile, mòr agus beag agus gu h-àraidh fhad ’s a tha sinn a’ siubhal an rathaid thoinnte a dh’ionnsaigh ge ’r bith dè an seòrsa Brexit a tha a’ feitheamh oirnn shìos an rathad san àm ri teachd. Tha croitearachd agus tuathanachas an-còmhnaidh so-leònte a rèir nan atharrachaidhean sa mhargaid.

A dh’aindeoin sin gach bliadhna gun sguir bidh na rùid a’ dol a-steach aig deireadh an fhoghair agus bidh sinn a’ cur an t-sìl, a’ planntachadh agus ag àiteach tràth san earrach ann an dòchas gum bi fogharadh againn aig deireadh cùise. Gach bliadhna, bidh croitearan is tuathanaich “a’ caitheamh an arain air an uisge” ann an dòchas gum faigh iad tilleadh air an inbheisteadh aca de dh’ùine, saothair agus airgead.

Carson a tha sinn ga dhèanamh? Uill, chan eil fios

agam dè na h-adhbharan a th’ agadsa, ach tha mi an dùil coltach rium fhìn gum bi thu a’ cur an dearbh cheist sin ort fhèin. Gu h-àraidh nuair a tha cùisean doirbh agus mì-chinnt ann mun àm ri teachd. Tha aon nì a tha gam chuideachadh nuair a tha cuideam orm agus ’s e sin cuimhneachadh air an adhbhar a tha mi an sàs ann an croitearachd agus stiùbhardachd air an fhearann.

Tha mi air a thighinn tarsainn air àireamh de ‘ghaisgich’ croitearachd sna ceithir deicheadan gu leth a tha sinn air a bhith a’ fuireach an seo air Papa Stour, sa mhòr-chuid den t-seann sgoil agus a-nis nan laighe sna cladhan a tha sgapte air feadh nan eilean seo. Beagan ùine mus do ghluais mi fhìn agus mo bhean a Shealtainn tràth sna seachdadan, fhuair mi a-mach mu dheidhinn obraichean Frank Fraser Darling. An toiseach, an leabhar aige “Island Years” agus às dèidh sin “Island Farm” agus an tùs-leabhar goireasach, “Crofting Agriculture.” Uile airidh air an leughadh san latha an-diugh. Chaidh a’ chiad dhà

dhiubh ath-fhoillseachadh ann an 2011 le Little Toller Books.

Tha “Crofting Agriculture” a-mach à clò ach furasta gu leòr fhaotainn air ùisneachadh.

B’ e eag-eòlaiche tùsaireach, craoladair, acadaimig agus neach-cleachdaidh croitearachd a bh’ ann an Darling leis an obair aige a thaobh cùram don stuth amh againn, an talamh, àrd-bhuntainneach fhathast san latha an-diugh. Tha Òraidean Reith a rinn e don BhBC fhathast rim faotainn air-loidhne agus glè airidh èisteachd riutha.

Air leth bhon taobh phractaigeach den obair aige, ’s e tha follaiseach dhòmhsa an gràdh a bh’ aige air àiteachan iomallach na Gàidhealtachd ’s nan Eilean agus cho dìoghrasach is dealasach ’s a bha e fhèin is Bobbie, a’ chiad bhean aige, gus faighinn seachad air cruaidh-chàs. B’ e ‘soisgeulach’ tùsaireach a bh’ ann am Frank Darling a thaobh na beachd cocheangailte ri stiùbhardachd chunntachail agus na comasan airson cruth-atharrachadh a thoirt air talamh bochd, searbh agus faondrach ann an

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ceàrnaidhean iomallach bràighe is eilean, gu bhith nan aonadan torach cinneasach.

Nuair a tha mi a’ faireachdainn làn dòchasach mu choileanadh a leithid sin de dh’amas. Nuair a tha mar an latha an-diugh a’ ghaoth bhon Ear Thuath air seacadh agus tha blàths air a thighinn mu dheireadh thall do ghrian an earraich. Nuair a tha na caoraichuan a’ coimhead math, làn de bheatha às ùr agus deiseil airson breith nan uan. An uair sin tha e furasta creideas a bhith agad don àm ri teachd agus a bhith dòchasach. Ach nuair a tha coltas nach eil pròiseas Brexit agus na cleasan a tha na lùib a’ dol a thighinn gu deireadh. Nuair a tha an suidheachadh doirbh le glè bheag de theachd-s-steach mu choinneamh, agus coltas nach eil an geamhradh a’ dol a thighinn gu crìch gu bràth. Sin dìreach an t-àm nuair a dh’fheumas mi cuimhneachadh air na seann daoine a dh’obraich am fearann ro;mham mar ghaisgich an deagh thuathanachais agus gràdh don fhearann, coltach ri Frank Fraser Darling.

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BOOK SERIALISATION

A beginner’s guide to road building Continuing our exclusive serialisation of his acclaimed ‘Calum’s Road’, Roger Hutchinson looks at how two army officers and a textbook helped Calum MacLeod’s epic project to get under way

more than a sheep-track through trees. The initial, essential act of widening it by ten feet did not just involve clearing shrubbery and levelling land: it required the excavation and removal – all by pick and shovel and hand – of the deep and stubborn root systems of elderly birch. And then the resultant pits had to be filled in with boulders and surface stones.

It was literally an uphill task of clearance and reclamation, and it took Calum more than half a

year. On 15 April 1966 Colonel Basil Reckitt, who had recently bought as a holiday home the old manse at Holoman in central Raasay, entered in his diary, “The first quarter-mile of the path from Brochel has been made up to a base for a surface to take cars. Calum MacLeod has been working on it and has done a remarkable job in that time. At the present rate of progress he will finish the rough road as far as Arnish in about five years.”

‘There would be no straight and comfortable course over biddable earth between Brochel and Arnish’ Colonel Reckitt’s forecast would prove overly optimistic.

Once Calum reached the top of the slope he looked onto a further half-mile of exposed terrain which, before it disappeared over the near horizon into a challenging glen, while comparatively defoliated, was Picture by Colin Hattersley

The first fifth of a mile of the old footway from Brochel Castle to Arnish wound northwards up a short but steep and densely wooded incline. In the 1960s it presented Calum MacLeod with possibly his sternest challenge. The pathway immediately beyond the end of the adopted council road, an existing thoroughfare for which the council had accepted responsibility for improvement and maintenance, was little

The National Theatre of Scotland production of Calum’s Road, starring Ian Macrae, and based non Roger Hutchinson’s book, toured venues throughout Scotland in 2011. This picture was actually taken on Calum’s Road on Raasay.

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comprised instead of trembling peat bog irregularly punctuated by large outcrops of granite.

There would be no straight and comfortable course over biddable earth between Brochel and Arnish.

The second fifth of a mile of track between Brochel Castle and Arnish undulated, wound and dipped over and between stony hillocks. “Now, if Calum was doing anything,” a neighbour would say, “he didn’t do it the hard way. If there was an easy way, he did it the easy way. He was a terrific engineer. He looked at the contours of the land, and the surface of the ground, and if they meant going down a certain way, and it was easier than cutting up another way, that’s the way Calum would go. The hard way may have looked shorter, but it might still have been harder to do – so he would dig a wee turn.”

At the end of that fifth of a mile on this exposed plateau Calum MacLeod, in the middle of the 1960s, came across a short but extremely steep slope. He overcame this challenge not by cutting straight up and over it, as a deer, a horse or a footpath might have done, but by carving a single hairpin bend out of the hillside, thereby steering his road up two relatively gentle gradients.

The inner elbow of this hairpin bend required fortifying against the slope. So Calum MacLeod then embarked upon his first substantial piece of masonry on the Brochel to Arnish road. About a hundred blocks of granite, ranging in size from a scooter wheel to the tyre of a lorry, were cut, shaped and carried or otherwise manoeuvred by hand to the roadside. Calum then built them into a solid dry-stone holding wall. The foundations of the bend in the road were laid invisibly behind this facing, and its level surface was laid on top.

He had been helped in choosing the course of the route by two officers of the Royal Engineers, Major Mitcham and Captain Harrison. “After the

war,” said his former neighbour John Nicolson, “the army were helping people like that in different places. ‘Aid to the Community’ it was called. And they were going to do Calum’s road, before he began it himself.

It was even pegged out. He pegged it out along with the army engineers who came there. He showed them where it should go, more or less following the road as it is today. A stop was put to it after that, as far as I can understand, by certain members of Inverness County Council.”

“The Royal Engineers were going to do the road in the 1960s,” said Calum MacLeod in 1979.

“But the old Lord Macdonald caused trouble. He was convener of this and convener of that [on Inverness County Council].

Wherever you turned, he was in the way. He diverted the Royal Engineers and had them build instead some track in the Cuillins that nobody ever used.”

The plans for the new road fitted in with the precepts of Thomas Aitken, the author of a hardback book Calum had bought for half a crown. Aitken’s Road Making and Maintenance: A Practical Treatise for Engineers, Surveyors and Others. Turning absorbedly through its 440 pages, Calum will have alighted on two especially encouraging passages. “The width of a new road,” observed Thomas Aitken, “will be determined by the prospective wheel traffic. It is a common practice to make a road sufficiently wide to allow for two or more vehicles passing each other easily when travelling fast.

For ordinary road traffic 12 feet of metalling will be sufficient.”

Calum did not anticipate extraordinary road traffic between Brochel and Arnish. The road he planned would be twelve feet in total width and nine feet wide within its outer drains and dry-stone edges. In order to achieve this, “the tools which each foreman roadman should have,” wrote Thomas Aitken, “are a shovel, spade, line and reel, pickaxe, barrow and a hand-

Picture by Colin Hattersley

BOOK SERIALISATION

Calum’s Road’ sign

machine scraper”. A shovel, spade, line and reel, pickaxe and barrow were easily supplied.

Upon further reading the handmachine scraper turned out to be unnecessary in the short term, it being a device for cleaning and clearing the finished surface.

Messrs MacLeod, Mitcham and Harrison had little difficulty in staking out the recommended sinuous course between Brochel and Arnish. The terrain demanded that they either go around outcrops of granite the size of a banqueting table or blow them up, and in most cases they preferred to skirt them.

When the officers returned to barracks, Calum began to clear the land, to lay foundations, to build holding walls and culverts. A student at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee named Campbell Sandilands would in the early 1980s spend time with Calum MacLeod in order to write a dissertation on his road. In the early stages, Sandilands learned,

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Calum had “by hand to make a ‘tram-line’ of stones defining the finite boundary of the road.

This was then filled in with more stones and then smaller stones between the larger ones . . . Gravel and small stones were quarried to complete the road surface.”

The arduous clearance of foliage by pick and shovel and wheelbarrow could not be limited to the roadway itself. “It ought never to be forgotten,” Thomas Aitken had written, “that in order to have the surface of a road perfect, it must be kept completely dry . . . It is absolutely necessary to remove trees from the sides of the road . . . Not less than 20 per cent of the expense of repairing roads is incurred by the trees . . . keeping the road wet.”

This was the type of work, the first fifth of a mile of hard labour, that Basil Reckitt observed personally in April of 1966, noting in his journal that “Calum MacLeod has been working on it for the last six months.”

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environment ALDI trials unwrapped veg in Scotland

Profitable ideas we can all benefit from Rebecca Audsley, Climate Change Manager, SAC Consulting.

As ALDI, Scotland’s fastestgrowing supermarket*, celebrates its 25th anniversary in Scotland it is trialling selling cabbages and cauliflowers without any plastic packaging in all Scottish stores.

The trial, which is now underway, focuses on five veg lines: savoy cabbage, red cabbage, white cabbage, pointed cabbage and cauliflower.

Customers across Scotland will now be able to buy these vegetables plastic-free, and the six-week trial is estimated to save half a ton of plastic. If rolled out across the UK, the initiative would remove more than 110 tonnes of plastic wrapping a year from ALDI’s fresh produce lines.

This trial follows the supermarket’s decision to phase out hard-to-recycle black plastic trays on four fresh produce lines, replacing them with clear, recyclable alternatives last year.

Fritz Walleczek, Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at ALDI UK, said: “We’re working hard to reduce plastic, but we also need to ensure that reducing packaging doesn’t lead to unnecessary food waste.

We’re hoping the outcome of this trial will be positive, and something that we can roll out across the rest of the UK.” Since March 2018, ALDI has replaced more than 2,500 tonnes of plastic across its range with recyclable alternatives, and the supermarket is working to achieve 100% recyclable, reusable or compostable packaging across its own-brand products by 2022.

As well as celebrating the 25th anniversary of ALDI opening its first store in Scotland, 2019 also marks the 10th anniversary of the creation of the supermarket’s dedicated Scottish Buying Department.

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From a couple of thousand pounds to over £60,000 with no loss of production, our volunteer Climate Change Focus Farms were able to save money through taking a second look at current practices and making small tweaks to routine jobs.

Making best use of inputs can reduce greenhouse gas emissions too, leading to a lower carbon footprint.

The focus farmers, located across Scotland, were already technically efficient but looked at other ways to make better use of energy and renewables or improvements in livestock management. Farm soils and nutrient management was an area where most were able to make financial savings. Ideas worth reviewing include: s Check your soils. A more thorough look at your soils could reveal a range of issues including compaction, poor drainage and/or lack of earthworms, compromising grass or crop production. The “Valuing your Soils” brochure (containing information on Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure—the VESS guide) is a good starting point. s Regularly test soils.

Knowing soil nutrient status

and pH value will help you better target and manage nutrients, both in slurry, manures and bought-in fertiliser. s Check nutrient value in slurry and manure. Nutrient content in slurry and manures can differ based on a number of factors. It’s worth knowing what you’ve got. s Create and use a nutrient management plan. This will help you make more cost effective use of fertilisers on the farm.

Could you save money or improve productivity? A carbon audit will help you compare your performance with similar farms, suggesting areas where you could make savings. The focus farms used the free AgRE Calc program at www.agrecalc. com. Help is also available via www.fas.scot For more ideas on improving farm efficiency and to see what the focus farmers did, visit www. farmingforabetterclimate. org, find us on Facebook and Twitter @SACFarm4Climate.

This article from Farming for a Better Climate was funded by the Scottish Government as part of Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service www.fas.scot

For more ideas on improving farm efficiency which can in turn reduce the farm carbon footprint, see www.farmingforabetterclimate.org and find us on Facebook and Twitter @SACFarm4Climate.

Farming for a Better Climate is funded by the Scottish Government as part of Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service www.fas.scot

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“I made this!”

Scottish Women’s Institutes are brimming with outstanding talent.

Meet Brigitte Webb from Dingwall SWI, rug hooker extraordinaire…

Hi Brigitte, how did you get into rug hooking?

“It all started in 2005, following an inspiring trip to Truro, Nova Scotia as a direct result of my youngest son falling in love with a Nova Scotian girl whose mother is a rug hooker. The wonderful work displayed in her home captured my imagination.”

And you were ‘hooked’?

“Yes! It’s now an obsession… it’s my passion. I’ve hooked in excess of 250 pieces of work ranging from two inches to ten feet. I work on pieces for three to four hours a day, with some taking about two months to complete. It keeps my mind ticking over ever since I retired

from community nursing in Dingwall.”

We hear you’re heading back to Nova Scotia for an exhibition of your work?

“Yes, I’ve been made International Rug Hooker of the Year in Nova Scotia and I’ve been invited to exhibit in the Nova Scotia Museum, which is great. I’ll have 15 rugs on display there this month.”

You’re a big deal in rug hooking, then?

“Well, over the years I’ve been lucky enough, and honoured, to have my rugs featured in about 20 publications. I try to promote my love and passion for rug hooking in various ways – by giving show and tell talks and demonstrations and last year

Brigitte Webb

I taught my first class to SWI members.”

What would you like them to get out of it?

“A love of the art of rug hooking, to preserve the beautiful craft.”

To see more of Brigitte’s work and find out more about Scottish Women’s Institutes, go to www.theswi.org.uk www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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country woman

Wilma Kass

By Linda Mellor

Wilma (Wills) Kass, 62, has a lifelong connection with flora and fauna of the Scottish countryside, she loves shoot days, game cooking and shooting clays. Wills said, ‘my love for nature especially wild flowers and wildlife has continued throughout my life.’

Wills was brought up on a farm in the hills near Loch Tummel, ‘where my father stalked stags and hinds and any other game that moved to feed a family of six . I was five when my mother 138

would take me out, we’d follow quietly behind my father in the snow, there were no quads back then, but I can remember how exciting it was having not to even squeak!’ Her grandfather, uncles and cousins were all keepers and Wills recalls conversations, ‘were always about shooting game and my mother would share recipes for hare, pigeon, and venison with my Aunt who’s husband was a head keeper at Strathtay.’

Wills and husband, Lou, have two sons, Ben and Niall,

both loved the outdoors growing up, and excelled in shooting clays and game. ‘My husband and I’s appreciation of the countryside has been passed on to our sons. Ben having left school to become Gamekeeper, now owns a successful shooting agency, BWK Field Sports. He was also the British Over and Under Clay Pigeon Champion while at Strathallan School.

Niall, having been sports champion at Rannoch School on numerous occasions and a

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Scottish Kickboxing Champion now has his own landscape gardening business, NDK Garden Services. They both appreciate the countryside along with their wives and own children. Ben enjoying his shooting and Niall his fishing.’

The whole family have their own connections to the outdoors, Wills said, ‘Lou, in his younger days, was a mountaineer and expedition leader to many countries across the world. He always encouraged the boys to

country woman love the outdoor life and respect the countryside.’

As a teenager, Wills joined a local rifle club which her father and his friend were members, ‘I loved going to the range and trying to beat these two hot shots on a Thursday evening,’ she said. In 2013, Wills and her friends joined the Scottish Ladies Shooting Club and ‘got the bug for shooting clays’. The ladies liked shooting as many dates as they could on the club calendar and enjoyed the bonus of their own guns, ‘our husbands bought us 20 bore Berettas so we didn’t have to use club guns.’ Wills enjoys the social side of shooting, ‘although I am not competitive, I enjoy meeting women with the same interests. I did take a year out in 2018 to spend more time with my grandchildren before the game shooting season began.

However, I am really looking forward to meeting up with the ladies again this year as it’s fun and good practise for the game season.’ Lou is a member of Gleneagles Shooting School and Wills joins him most months to shoot clays.

Ten years ago, when Ben started his shooting business at Errol Park, all the family helped out with the beating and picking up. ‘Our shooting seasons starts in September with the partridges and throughout the season I cook for the clients. I also join them out on the field after lunch, whether it’s helping out with beating, driving the guns, or whatever’s needed on the day. I have two friends, Kim and Fiona, who help me with the lunches which makes life easier. I cook the game that has been previously shot as I like to promote the best of Scottish produce and how tasty and healthy game can be.’

‘I always promote eating game to others that perhaps are a bit wary of the hunting side of it.’

Wills, a grandmother of two, said, ‘there is nothing better than being out on a shoot with family and friends, meeting up with friends

from past seasons, enjoying the fresh air and exercise no matter the weather. We appreciate the all the hard work it takes to make a successful day for clients, beaters, picker-ups and of course the cook!’ On of her favourite recipes is, ‘partridge and pheasant marinated in my own Hawthorn jelly overnight, add pan-fried red peppers, onion and garlic, with a little Madeira wine and cornflower to thicken.

I tend to cook game with a simple home-made jelly in the natural juices, roast potatoes and vegetables, it’s a perfect Sunday lunch.’

A relaxing day outdoors for Wills is a day in the garden, ‘especially in the spring and summer when I can potter around after having breakfast outside.’ Wills also enjoys the game fairs, ‘favourite outings are the Scottish Game Fair at Scone and also the Highland Field Sports Fair at Moy, with my family and friends. Our little Jack Russell, Minnie, takes part in the terrier races just for fun and usually wins a few heats only to be beaten by the game keepers’ hardy terriers! Our little grandchildren Órla and Oscar will be able to enjoy the Game Fairs this year now they are in their second year.’

‘I joined a fishing syndicate along with my younger son Niall and although I have not mastered the best cast yet, I enjoy the tranquillity of being on the river bank. Again the wildlife on the river, because it’s so peaceful, is a real draw for me. There’s always something to watch, including swans and plenty of waders feeding in fields.’

Wills has many favourite places in Scotland, ‘including Achiltibuie, overlooking the Summer Isles on the West Coast, as it was where we took the boys fishing when they were young. Also Tiree with its stunning beaches and seafood.

But equally I love being at home in the Perthshire countryside surrounded by wildlife and beautiful sunsets.’

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Southern Belle You can take the girl out of…..?

Those of you have followed the column for some time, will know that my road to true love has been a wee bit bumpy, to say the least. Having finally found someone who can put up with me and who is pretty presentable, I had settled down to a life of commuting, between the lovely South West, where three sheep can cause a road block and the joys of the Glasgow M8 and The Kingston Bridge.

The road to true love never runs smooth, particularly over the pot holes.

Settled and enjoying a great work life balance, we had just celebrated the beginning of another year, when my “happy” other half arrives in the kitchen and asks me to marry him!!

What!! How much have you been drinking!! The poor man, ably assisted by one of my soon to be bridesmaids, finally convinced me he was serious and I will be a happily married woman by the end of the summer.

Yip no point in waiting, as neither of us are getting any younger and it saves the expense of two 60th birthday parties, when we can combine the whole thing!! Result!!

Next day, I’m home in the land of milk and honey and my grass cutting neighbour appears from her house at 6.30am in the morning, as I head for my daily dog walk.

“Congratulations!” she says, “What are you doing with your house?”

Somewhat still half asleep I reply, “In what respect?”

“Well are you moving to Glasgow or are you both planning to live here?” To be honest I hadn’t even considered moving anywhere and I am pretty sure that quite a few of my married friends are quite envious of the fact that I have the best of both worlds or as we like to call it “our two houses!”

You can’t take the girl out of Dumfries & Galloway and you can’t take Dumfries and Galloway of the girl.

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I get a huge amount of satisfaction being outdoors, I don’t have to shoot to enjoy a game day, I don’t have to catch a fish or even cast a line to enjoy a day on the river, or fire a rifle to enjoy stalking deer. The joy comes from simply being outdoors and surrounded by nature. It is food for the soul, and the addition of family and friends (usually!) enhances the day. We are lucky to have a beautiful country we can enjoy throughout the year. The muted browns, mustard hues and dull greens of winter are slowly replaced by colourful carpets of snowdrops and crocus, the vibrant green of new growth sprouts from branches, bluebells cover the forest floor and daffodils scent the air. Bird and animal activity increases as we progress through spring after an uneventful winter. I love all the seasons but after the short, dark winter days the springtime morning light lifts the spirits and inspires much optimism and encourages an early jaunt outdoors with the camera.

The 2018/2019 shooting season ended on a scenic note for me, with a morning’s wildfowling in Tyninghame bay, on the John Muir country park, east Lothian. All wildfowling is controlled by the council via a wildfowling permit scheme.

I went out before sunrise with Murray, he’s a local wildfowler and has shot in the bay for years. He takes his two gundogs, a spaniel and a lab,

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by Linda Mellor

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE and shoots to fill his freezer.

Conditions were good that morning, the cloud cover was light as we walked from the car. I sat hidden in some gorse, togged up in waterproofs and camo to watch geese and various ducks fly over. The temperature dropped as the sun appeared over the distant Lammermuirs. It was a fine morning to be out and a fitting close to my shooting season with a very traditional country sport.

In February, I went down to Rosebank for the United Clyde Angling Protective Association (UCAPA) opening of the salmon fishing on the River Clyde. It is one of my favourite events, and thank you once again to Munro Reid for the invite. There’s a genuine warmth surrounding this opening, lots of goodwill and generosity, it has a community feel and welcomes all. The opening ceremony

starts at the Popinjay hotel, where the staff kindly open the doors to the function room and feed everyone with hot bacon rolls, tea and coffee. One side of the room is taken up by a long row of tables for the fly tying demonstrations. Children of all ages participated in casting competitions on the lawn. The enthusiastic youngsters were encouraged and awarded prizes for the most accurate casting. It’s unquestionably a sociable event, there were people there from all corners of Scotland, and its perfect for a catching up with your angling buddies. Casting Instructor Tom Brown was in attendance with Greys, and showing youngsters how to cast. It was great to see Paul Young again, who was on good form. We smiled for my annual UCAPA ceremony selfie (shame Mike Shepley couldn’t make it!) with Peter Bowman, on my left.

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Talking of generosity, Willie McCutcheon, gave me one of his colourful handmade fly-tied kilt pins.

UCAPA Chairman, Ken Mackie, addressed the audience. He said that despite the extended dry summer it hadn’t been too a bad season and an exceptional 100% of all fish caught were returned. Ken presented the prizes, and Paul Young was made the Honorary President of UCAPA. The much anticipated raffle took place with an impressive list of 20+ prizes, many of them were salmon fishing on the rivers Tay, Tweed, Forth & Teith, Midclyde (I won this prize!), Kelvin and Tummel. More raffle prizes of fishing on the Lake of Monteith, Tinto trout fishery, Dungavel, casting tuition and fishing equipment including Hardy Zephrus 13’6 fly rod. A whopping £1,500 was raised and donated to Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). Crowds gathered outside the hotel for a group photo, the police stopped the traffic and we marched along the road to the riverbank. Ian Gordon of Speyonline was this year’s special guest, he blessed the river with customary quaich of whisky and made the first cast, expertly done and a joy to watch.

UCAPA are on the look-out for volunteers, please get in touch with them. http://www. ucapaltd.com/

Farming Scotland

Tried & Tested

Special Readers Competition

WiN

2 PRIZES

for Gents & Ladies (worth £90) On handling these boots for the first time, the first impression was one of sturdy and strong manufacture, while being solid and lightweight.

The toecap felt it would provide great protection and the chunky rubber sole and treading looked great and superbly made.

On first fitting, we were equally impressed. Snug, solid and very comfortable. After a quick walk up and down the shop, we were ready go!

For the next week we would be wearing these Rambler Boots on a daily basis – to put them through their paces as it were. At the end of the week we had walked a fair bit and it has to be said, we loved these boots.

We found them very comfortable and if you can excuse the pun for shoes – they fitted like a glove!

The ankle support was excellent too, but softer on the leg that one sometime gets with leather boots, so that was another plus for us – no ankle sores here.

On the couple of cold damp days, including one icy morning, pass marks were awarded to the rugged rubber soles which provided great security under foot.

The exterior fabric and overall ‘build’ quality was something that we expected from a Hoggs of Fife product and we were not disappointed.

Our plans are now to make these boots our ‘go to’ footwear for this summers travels around Scotland with our old campervan, and that is quite an endorsement!

The Rambler waterproof walking boots from Hoggs of Fife are a great product with great quality, what’s not to like?

Hoggs of Fife founders philosophy was to go that bit further to ensure the wearer had clothing and footwear fit for all weathers, with practical details to keep you comfortable, warm and dry. Tried and tested by farmers, fishermen, riggers, estate workers, shoot captains and serious outdoor types since 1888.

A Pair of Hoggs of Fife Rambler Waterproof Lightweight Walking Boots The Rambler boot, has a lightweight rubber sole with great traction, plus a low density cushioned midsole for shock absorbency, and to improve sole traction.

Fully waterproof of course, and complete with all the other essential comfort features, such as a cushioned (and removable) insole, moisture wicking lining, quick release eyelets, and padded ankle and tongue. A highly practical, multi activity boot, whether out with the retriever, heading for the nature reserve or taking the 4WD up onto the hill. Medium fitting.

RRP £45.00 HOW TO ENTER: Simply answer this question: Which fact is true about Loch Lomond? a) It is the longest of all freshwater lochs in Scotland? b It is the deepest of all freshwater lochs in Scotland? c) It has the largest surface area of all freshwater lochs in Scotland? email answer to: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com or telephone: 01738 639747 or message us @facebook/farmingscotlandmagazine

Closing date of 31st July 2019

machinery Lemken introduces Dural and DuraMAXXwear parts range LEMKEN is subdividing its tillage wear parts range into the DuraL (long service life) and DuraMAXX (extra-long service life) product lines to reflect local farming conditions and projected acreages.

LEMKEN specialises in the design and manufacture of highquality equipment parts. As early as the mid-1980s, DuraL plough bodies were introduced as the first ever generation of wear parts identified by their own brand name.

Around 10 years ago, the DuraL bodies were followed by the introduction of DuraMAXX bodies made from specially hardened steel, increasing service life by 150%.

LEMKEN has since expanded its portfolio of high wear-resistant parts to include stubble cultivation.

The range of wear parts for the LEMKEN Karat cultivator, for

example, now includes a full range of carbide parts to supplement the existing standard steel and hardfaced shares.

In addition to the proven standard specification of discs offered for the Rubin compact disc harrow, LEMKEN

now also offers discs made from highly-tempered steel, providing 20% longer service life.

Landini Rex 4 tractor cab air filtration upgrade safeguards spraying operators A new upgrade for the tractor cab air filtration system on Landini Rex 4 tractors provides top level Category 4 protection against spray contaminants and easy change-over between regular and carbon filters.

New Rex 4 tractors with the optional CAT4 cab have both types of filter installed at the same time and operators can select either type with the flick of a switch.

This arrangement provides quick and convenient access to the maximum level of protection from potential contaminants in the cab while spraying but also optimises the service life of the special carbon filter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a pragmatic solution typical of the innovative thinking that goes into Landini products by engineers at Argo Tractors,â&#x20AC;? says Adrian Winnett, UK and Ireland 142

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machinery managing director. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It simplifies things for the operator while also cutting filter replacement costs to a minimum.â&#x20AC;?

The new Landini Rex 4 tractors come in a number of width and wheelbase configurations, primarily for top fruit, orchard, vineyard and horticultural work.

Cirrus 03-2CC Double-Shoot seeding combination to make its debut at the 2019 Royal Highland Show The Royal Highland Show 2019 sees further expansion of the Cirrus trailed seeder range.

Designated the Cirrus 03-2CC Double-Shoot, these hydraulic folding 4 & 6 metre trailed drills now feature a second distribution head and coulter system that can be used for either sowing a second seed type or applying fertiliser directly into the seedbed without coming into direct seed contact.

The new model utilises the 4,000 litre pressurised seed hopper. This is split 60:40 into two compartments and is taken from the Cirrus 03-2C SingleShoot and enables the operator

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to calibrate two different materials at two different application rates. The two seed hoppers can be easily accessed via the fold down walkway on the side of the hopper.

The electric calibration is extremely straight forward and is carried out nice and safely from ground level by remotely using the TwinTerminal 3.0; this means the operator avoids having to climb in and out of the cab to enter in the quantity collected. The amount applied can be varied by using a twin rate prescription map for partarea, site specific seeding via GPS.

machinery Hydraulic roller extends versatility of Kuhn hedge and grass cutters KUHN’s mid-range Poly-Longer and Multi-Longer hedge and grass cutters are now available with a hydraulic roller that provides greater control when operating on verges, ditches and riverbanks, and allows a rapid switch between operational modes.

Controlled directly from the tractor spool, the roller ensures good ground-following when cutting uneven terrain, with a fully extended range of 62mm outside the flail head. For hedge cutting, the roller is retracted out of the way to ensure a neat and even trim.

The Poly-Longer is a 5.5m horizontal reach machine with

4-function joystick with electric proportional control. It has a parallelogram pivot-mounted straight arm and 116 degree slew. The hydraulic roller option is available on the 1.2m belt drive flail head and adds £986 to a machine price of £24,593.

The larger Multi-Longer GII has a horizontal reach of 5.7m and has 4-function joystick with electric proportional control. It has the OptiView parallelogram pivotmounted semi-leading arm and 116 degree slew, with a 1.2m belt drive flail head. Hydraulic drive adds £986 to a machine price of £30,847.

New name and new models for familiar tractor range Chinese-built Foton tractors, aimed at users such as smallholdings, dairy units, sportsturf managers, horse yards and specialist crop growers requiring easy-to-operate lowhorsepower machines with simple specification and competitive pricing, have been rebranded and upgraded for 2019, with a third generation of the established series already offered in the UK now being introduced by the importer.

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The 25, 35 and 50hp models, imported and supported by Kent business Foton Tractors and previously sold under Foton branding, will now wear the Lovol name of Foton’s parent company, following the decision of the manufacturer to restructure its branding and focus the Foton brand on the trucks it also builds.

The UK importer says that, while the new name will not affect the established service and support systems it provides, a new generation of upgraded tractors will wear the rebranded livery of the restyled machines.

Model numbers stay the same, and as before the 25hp M254 is a three-cylinder

machinery machine, while the 35hp M354 and 50hp M504 are four-cylinder tractors. All meet the latest Stage 3A emissions regulations currently required in this power bracket, come standard with four-wheel drive and are available with either a roll bar or cab.

New-generation McCormick X5 Series tractors A new generation of McCormick X5 Series tractors now available

The all-new RANGER Diesel from Polaris: Durable. Dependable.

Capable.

from dealers throughout the UK and Ireland offers a lively and versatile power unit with a broad choice of specifications to suit different farm applications.

The new tractors are available from McCormick dealers in Scotland, TH Engineering, Banksfoot near Dalswinton, Dumfries & Galloway; Argyll Engineers, Oban; John Drysdale Agricultural Engineers, Kinneswood near Kelso, Perthshire; Hamilton Tractors, Carnwath, Lanarkshire; Brian Smith Engineers, Cornhill; Mearns Tractors, Laurencekirk, Aberdeenshire; AL Agri, Forfar, Angus; A B Wight Engineering, St Boswells, Scottish Borders and J T Cormack, Huna near John O’Groats, Caithness.

“The X5 Series is at the core of our ‘livestock tractor’ lineup,” notes Adrian Winnett, Argo Tractors managing director for the UK and Ireland. “Together with a neat and well laid-out cab providing a comfortable and convenient working environment, the tractors make an attractive package for field and loader work.”

The new McCormick X5 Series replaces the Perkinspowered first-generation X5 design with three new models powered by a 3.6-litre Deutz fourcylinder engine tuned for max outputs of 99hp (X5.35), 107hp (X5.45) and 113hp (X5.55).

Power and torque are channelled through an expanded selection of transmissions.

Buyers can choose between a dry clutch synchro shuttle or wet clutch power shuttle, a gear splitter or three-speed powershift, and from 12 to 36 forward speeds, with a creep gearbox option available across the board.

WILKS BROTHERS Main dealers in Perthshire for DEUTZ FAHR & KRONE Machinery

Polaris has introduced the allnew RANGER Diesel for 2019, developed specifically for markets in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Debuting in dealerships this spring, the new RANGER Diesel redefines refinement with the introduction of a brand-new diesel engine and updated chassis, along with superior levels of comfort, handling and driving capabilities

that make it even more durable, dependable and capable.

Rodrigo Lourenco, Vice President and General Manager of Polaris Off-Road Vehicles EMEA, said: “We’re very excited to launch the new RANGER Diesel this year.

We’ve taken the proven attributes of the existing RANGER Diesel model and upgraded almost every aspect so it’s tougher, more reliable and can tackle anything thrown its

3ALES s 3ERVICE s 0ARTS Repairs for a wide range of Agricultural Machinery Murthly, Perthshire, PH1 4HG Tel: 01738 710381 Fax: 01738 710581

www.wilksbrothers.co.uk

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machinery way. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the result of two years of research and development, fuelled by direct customer feedback and in-depth usage analysis; with a new engine and a new chassis, it is built for hard work.â&#x20AC;?

The new RANGER Diesel is made to perform to the highest standards for years to come. The all-new three-cylinder Kubota diesel engine is the most powerful engine in its class, delivering 24.8 horsepower and 40.8 ft.lb of torque.

Paired with more consistent power and better torque distribution for a smoother ride, the new engine offers a lower cost of ownership thanks to over 200 hours between service intervals, plus a longer filter life and less oil consumption. With the highest top speed in its class of 65kph, the RANGER DIESEL is built for the heavy-duty long haul.

The exterior design captures the essence of RANGER, boasting an aggressive style with its all-new one-piece chassis. More rugged throughout with reduced flex, the new chassis design is even more robust for an improved ride.

Vaderstad launches new high speed precision Tempo drill Vaderstad has launched the new Tempo L 8 as well as introduced new configurations to its 12 and 18 models.

The new Tempo L models combine excellent high-speed planting precision with high capacity output of both seed and fertiliser. Tempo L 8 has eight row units, a 3000 litre fertiliser hopper and row spacing options from 700-800mm.

Changing row units from eight to 12 makes the drill very versatile. The 12 row configuration enables narrow row spacing alternatives from 450 to 508mm.

The new 3000 litre fertiliser hopper is available for all eight, 12 and 18 row Tempo L models.

The new fertiliser hopper is optional for existing Tempo L

12 and Tempo L 18 models. It is fitted with the same high capacity Fenix III metering system as the 5000 litre hopper, and is able to deliver up to 350kg/ha fertiliser at 15km/hr planting speed.

The Tempo L 8 and the new fertiliser hopper solutions as well as and new row spacing alternatives for Tempo L 12 and Tempo L 18 will go into production in November 2019.

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finance Time is running out for tenant farmers to register improvements says Bell Ingram’s Head of Land Management Malcolm Taylor A leading Land Agent is urging tenant farmers to ‘get their records in order’ or face paying rents for historic improvements.

The Amnesty on Tenants’ Improvements runs out in 2020 and under the Codes of Practice, tenant farmers can agree with their

Landlords improvements to their farm that have not in the past been properly recorded. These include everything from buildings to access improvements and drainage.

Malcolm Taylor, Partner and Head of Land Management for Bell Ingram, comments:

Sustainable farming set for funding boost thanks to Edinburgh research A new approach to help banks evaluate the sustainability of the farming enterprises that they lend to could lead to greater recognition and reward for farmers who look after the long-term health of their soil, water and biodiversity.

The new framework, developed by Dr Francisco Ascui, Senior Lecturer in Business and Climate Change at the University of Edinburgh Business School, was launched today (15 April) by the Natural Capital Finance Alliance, a coalition of over 40 international financial institutions.

‘Natural capital’ is a term for the natural resources and ecosystems that provide flows of environmental goods and services that underpin the global economy. Agriculture often has both impacts and dependencies on natural capital, meaning that lenders to the sector are indirectly exposed to natural capital risk.

Yet at present, banks still lend to farmers almost solely based on their most recent profit and loss accounts, not taking natural capital into account in their credit risk assessment.

This is short-sighted, because a farm’s financial performance can be improved over the shortterm in an unsustainable way, for example by over-application of fertiliser, which may boost yields but causes a build-up of acidity in the soil. In the longer-term, however, this type of activity will negatively affect the farmer’s financial performance, and therefore their ability to repay a loan. The new framework, developed by Dr Ascui, takes into account factors such as water availability, use and quality; soil health; biodiversity; energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, allowing banks to identify and increase lending to more sustainably run farms.

“At a recent meeting with the Tenant Farming Commissioner, Dr Bob McIntosh, it became clear that very few tenant farmers have taken up the opportunity of registering farming improvements with their landlords.

“On the face of it this might not seem important where there is next generation succession under a secure 1991 Act Tenancy. However, under the proposed new rules for negotiating rents, the value of Tenant improvements when considering the rent of a farm, tenant improvements have to be disregarded. If they are not recorded under the amnesty, then a tenant could be paying rent for

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RHASS reports a year of growth & profitability The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has reported a year of growth with total income in the year ended 30 November 2018

of £9.60 million (2017: £8.04 million), an increase of £1.56 million.

RHASS’ flagship event, The Royal Highland Show, delivered

improvements carried out in the past.

“However, time is running out to register improvements.

There are about 18 months left for the registration of improvements.

It takes about eight months to carry out initial recording and discussions between the parties, and then a further period to draw up the agreement.

“To be absolutely clear this process will not have any impact on the Landlord Tenant relationship as we are simply putting records in order. It is in everybody’s interest to go through the process so that records are up to date. It is essential that tenants are not charged rent on historic improvements.”

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finance a fifth successive year of record revenue, generating £4.76 million (2017: £4.45million) – an increase of £310k from 2017.

Trading income, generated

by RHASS’ wholly owned subsidiary, Highland Centre Ltd, increased slightly on 2017 at £1.65 million.

Net Operating surplus was £618,000 (2017: £(234,000) deficit). This figure includes a legacy of £425,000, and £824,000 relating to income in connection with capital works for the recently completed Moxy Hotel. A further gain of £2.1 million arose from the sale of a digital advertising screen on the perimeter of the site.

Fixed assets show a yearon-year increase of just over £3.4 million in 2018, due to the significant upgrading of infrastructure at the 280 acre site at Ingliston.

A total of £301,000 bursaries and grants awarded this year – an increase of £116,000 on the previous year.

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THEMONEYMAN New income streams include revenue from the new Moxy Hotel which was completed in late 2018. RHASS land on which the hotel was built upon was reclassified in 2017 as an investment property, and this year has seen an increase of £0.2 million in its value to £3.9million.

RHASS Chairman James Warnock said: “RHASS is in a solid financial position through the robust management of our assets. The Royal Highland Show continues to drive revenue as does our events business, the Royal Highland Centre. New revenue streams, including rental income from the Moxy Hotel, will ensure we remain a sustainable organisation through prudent financial management.

“Our charitable remit is to promote and protect the interests of rural Scotland and this drives our activities including the provision of awards and grants which increased this year.”

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Tax Enquiries

By Charlie Carnegie I hope that I am not tempting fate in writing this article but thankfully HMRC full enquiries into farm Accounts and Tax Returns have been relatively rare over the last two or three years which could be due to other distractions in the form of Brexit and preparing for Making Tax Digital.

However, once those issues settle down and are rectified no doubt their attention may return to looking more closely into the affairs of individual taxpayers.

If you are unfortunate enough to receive a letter from HMRC advising you that they wish to conduct a full enquiry into your Tax Return it does not mean that they suspect you of any wrongdoing as enquiries are mostly selected entirely at random by computer.

A full enquiry means they would ask for sight of all your books and records for a particular year and they would then ask for lots more additional information.

The particular areas of interest and where most of the issues can arise tend to be stock valuation and private use adjustments in respect of the Farmhouse and Cars.

I don’t propose to go into any great detail about the stock valuation as I could easily do a full article or even two on that aspect but suffice to say you need to ensure that all costs incurred in the production of your stock as at the Balance Sheet date are fully reflected in the valuation figure. However, if in a year where grain prices are low and actually less than your

cost then the selling price can be substituted.

For expenses on the Farmhouse historically as a rule of thumb one-third would have been treated as private and not tax deductible however HMRC can insist on a more accurate calculation on a case by case basis.

For private use of cars HMRC can ask for detailed mileage records to ascertain a split between business and private usage. This can be impracticable to maintain all year round but may be a worthwhile exercise to carry out at various times of the year to establish a pattern which can be demonstrated to HMRC. The cost of daily newspapers is not a business expense however any farming journals and periodicals are. Trying to argue that you only read the farming pages of newspapers does not work.

Neither does claiming for the cost of a TV Licence because you only watch the weather as one client tried to claim but failed.

Please note I am referring to enquiries into individuals and not companies which have some differences.

Charlie Carnegie is a partner in the Perth office of Campbell Dallas and can be contacted on 01738 441888 for any further information

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@home Bespoke interiors from David L Douglas David L Douglas has been making things all his life. The time-served cabinetmaker and designer has had a passion for creating high quality products his entire career.

His passion for quality has transcended through the decades.

After 46 years in the business he certainly knows good quality when he sees it.

The family business has been designing hand-crafted bespoke fitted interiors in Scotland and throughout the UK for over 25 years. The company employs the best designers in the business to inspire our clients and our highly skilled craftsmen bring the designs to life. Our talented installation team provide the finishing touch for our clients.

From the start David and Elaine Douglas realised that along with outstanding quality they had to provide their client’s

with an experience. From the moment a potential client walk’s through the front door in their showroom in Fife, they are made to feel special. Being based in the village of Cairneyhill, offer’s an escape to most clients from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. There is nothing more relaxing than being able to walk into a calm environment, have a nice coffee and have a chat with one of our designer’s surrounded by beautiful furniture.

Within the premises and alongside their showroom in Cairneyhill they have their onsite workshop. Where they welcome their clients to witness their furniture being made first hand.

They encourage everyone to do this, as very few companies can offer this service. Being able to watch your project take shape is very special.

David L Douglas is a second generation business with son Michael and daughter Samantha also being in the business. This wasn’t by chance this was David and Elaine’s intention, to create a legacy that would continue to thrive through the generations.

The Douglas family would warmly invite you visit their showroom or alternatively you can visit their website www. davidldouglas.com. They are also attending the Fife Show, Highland Show & Game Fair again this year. They look forward to seeing you.

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Sophie Allport has collaborated with The National Trust on this striking collection featuring red squirrels, deer, pheasants, hedgehogs and the occasional owl on a muted teal coloured background. The design celebrates woodland creatures and the mighty oak tree with acorn branches dotted between the wildlife.

There are over 25 products in the collection from kitchen essentials and bags to china and home accessories. Plenty of gift inspiration that supports a brilliant cause protecting special places throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland forever, for everyone.

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lifestyle

Say I Do To Tweed If you’re passionate about the country living or planning on a wedding set in our beautiful countryside, then the Timothy Foxx Tweed Wedding Dress Collection is the perfect designer brand to complement your wedding day.

This beautiful British brand not only offers a range of made to measure wedding dresses, beautifully tailored and offered in a variety of British & Scottish tweeds but you can also coordinate your dress with your partner’s tweed suit, tweed hair accessories, tweed fascinators and tweed heart favours.

You can even choose pairing tweed bunting to decorate your countryside reception venue. Getting married in the country never looked so beautiful.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Marcelina Hamilton SLE has appointed a new adviser to its policy team to further enhance services to members and engagement with government and stakeholders.

Marcelina Hamilton has joined Scottish Land & Estates’ Musselburgh HQ to work on property and business issues such as housing, energy efficiency, rates and wayleaves.

Following time spent in London working for Google and Amazon, Marcelina has spent the last few years employed as a land agent by some of Scotland’s leading property consultancies.

Professor Charles Milne Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has welcomed the announcement by Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy, of Professor Charles Milne as a new QMS board member.

After studying at the Royal Veterinary College, London, Professor Milne worked for two years in mixed practice in the East of Scotland. He then moved to the State Veterinary Service in Perth where he gained extensive experience in disease management including BSE, Foot and Mouth, Avian Influenza and Bluetongue.

Mark Mitchell Bell Ingram has announced that Mark Mitchell has become its new Managing Partner.

Graham Lumby will continue to represent the firm as Chairman.

The Rural Land and Property experts have professionals spanning a range of services, from forestry and mapping to architecture and farm sales. The firm has a rich heritage and will celebrate its 120th year in November.

Mark joined the firm as a trainee in 1993 and has subsequently fulfilled various senior management roles, latterly as Partner in charge of Estate Agency and Health and Safety.

Phil Dean There has never been a more exciting time to embark on a career in Forestry, according to one of the country’s leading experts.

And it’s essential that the sector continues to develop the next generation of talent by continuing to offer high quality work placements.

That’s the message from Phil Dean who has just been appointed to head up Bell Ingram’s Perth-based Forestry division.

The company, which is one of the UK’s leading land management specialists, currently has a Forestry student on a year-long work placement as part of its partnership with the Scottish School of Forestry at Inverness College UHI. Phil Dean said: “Encouragingly, the sector is on an upward trajectory and young people embarking on a career in Forestry are doing so at a very exciting time as the conditions for growth and success in the industry are excellent.

Justin Krebs Haith Group has appointed a new Operations Manager.

Justin Krebs joined the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of vegetable handling equipment this month to oversee the company’s production line.

Mr Krebs’ role at Haith’s Doncaster factory includes responsibility for production forecasting, planning and analysis; scheduling and progress monitoring; customer and supplier liaison; waste reduction; quality control; and coordinating design, electrical, parts, manufacturing; and health and safety department logistics.

Page Turner’s

BOOK REVIEW The Clydesdale: Workhorse of the World

by Mary Bromilow

Every year at the Royal Highland Show the Heavy Horse Turnout is an experience to stir your heart. If you stand on the avenue as the teams approach the ring, you’ll see them change from a calm dignified walk to an impressive brisk trot as they build up speed for their grand entrance.

Hooves thunder, tack sparkles, and the ground shakes just a bit. The Clydesdale is a truly Scottish breed with a proud tradition, one that Mary Bromilow has chronicled in this definitive history of the horse.

The Clydesdale has its origin in the 19th century working horses of Lanarkshire.

Over the past 200 years the breed has been exported from Scotland all over the world.

They worked in town and country, pulling the plough and delivering coal. In the mid and late 20th century, though, they came to the brink of extinction owing to increasing mechanisation.

This book, in its text and photographs, tells the story of the breed’s heyday in marvellous old photographs from Scotland’s farms, showing the Clydesdale at work, at rest, and on parade. Their role in the two world wars, on the front and in the Women’s Land Army (for example) is explored. As is their history in North America and Australasia.

Author Mary Bromilow has lived all her life in southwest Scotland, working with books and horses. She is the granddaughter of a stallion man and, though she worked as a librarian and bookseller, the love of horses runs strong in her blood.

HRH the Prince of Wales has written the foreword to the book, in his capacity as Patron of the Clydesdale Horse Society.

He writes, ‘The history of the Clydesdale is very much part of our island story, their lives being so intimately interwoven with the lives of those farming families who worked with them over the generations.’ He also notes the increasing use of heavy horses as work animals, especially in logging and woodland management, since they are strong and good tempered, good on uneven ground and have a less destructive impact on biodiversity than machines.

The book is a fitting tribute to an animal who supplies the answer to the question posed by Ronald Duncan in 1954, ‘Where in this wide world can man find nobility without pride, friendship without envy, or beauty without vanity? Here, where grace is laced with muscle and strength by gentleness confined.’

The Clydesdale: Workhorse of the World by Mary Bromilow is published by Birlinn (£16.99, paperback) www.birlinn.co.uk