Farming Scotland Magazine (July - Aug 2014)

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COMBINE HARVESTERS • TELEHANDLERS PERTH SHOW • WORLD SHEEPDOG TRIALS Eat, Drink, Discover Scotland Meet new BHS Scotland Chairman Derek Knottenbelt ARDROSS FARM • MULL CHEESE • WHISKY CONSERVATION • DIVERSIFICATION with SHEARWELL DATA plus our regular columns and news sections

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More meat and veg, less jewellery please?

I have recently taken advantage of some decent weekend weather to visit a few farm shops in and around this part of Scotland with the family en tow. Most have been rather pleasant experiences, be they small or larger outlets, they all make and bake some of their on sale produce. And it is this, that attracts me to these farm shops. I have of course been to one or two who seem to have ‘lost the message’ somewhere along the line. I have to admit, I would rather see a large display of fresh carrots than an expansive array of middle of the road jewellery! I have no idea what ‘that’ is doing in a farm shop? Anyway, I digress. When returning from our weekend farm shop trip, treats in basket, we enjoy the delights of local cooking and baking. Surely this is what farm shops are all about? Local produce, local cooking and local baking? Yes, even local crafts, but not mass manufactured jewellery etc? Most farm shops pass my ‘taste test’, but some others need to get their game (excuse the pun) back on track. Local farm shop produce is fab and tasty, and that should remain the mainstay. NB. I do love their coffee shops areas too. Slàinte, Athole.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Athole Murray Fleming E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com Email: athole@atholedesign.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Athole Murray Fleming Tel. 01738 639747 ADVERTISING MANAGERS Barry Tweed Tel. 01738 550157 Email: barry@farmingscotlandmagazine.com Trevor Knights Tel. 01738 447378 Email: trevor.knights@farmingscotlandmagazine.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Fleming Email: christina@atholedesign.com PUBLISHER’S NOTES 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. SUPPLIED MATERIAL ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD does not accept any liability for loss or damage to supplied photographs or other such promotional material. FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is designed, produced and published by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd.

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CONTENTS

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August 2014 Main Features Combine Harvesters ...14919

Estate ........................ 71-74 Horses ....................... 75-77

Perth Show ................ 22-25

Country Woman ........ 78-81

Telehandlers ............... 42-53

Gadgets ..........................82 Finance ...........................83

Drovers Tales Diary of Ken Headspeath ...9

Machinery ............... 84-101

Lifestyle@home....... 102-104 Cars ..............................105

In Focus Shearwell Data .......... 20-21 Flavour of Scotland Featuring Mull Cheese, Eat, Drink, Discover Scotland....... 26-31

Columns In My View ........................4

Crofting ...........................13 Farmers Markets ..............26 Let's Cook Scotland ..........27

Our Farm Shop Ardross Farm Shop ..........32

Farm Foodie ....................28 Whisky ............................29 Farming for the Climate ....38

Beautiful Tractors With Case and British Wallis....................33

Quality Meat Scotland ......56 The Vet ............................59 NFU of Scotland ..............63

Topic Conservation ............. 40-41

Scottish Government .........69 Scottish Land & Estates ....73

NEWS SECTIONS Arable........................... 4-8

Conservation Matters .......74

Potatoes .................... 10-13

Southern Belle ..................79

Renewable Energy ..... 34-38

Rural Style .......................81

Science & Technology .......39

Online Savvy ...................82

Livestock .................... 54-60

Farm Watch...................101

Sheep........................ 62-63

People on the Move........106

Dairy ........................ 66-70

Book Review ..................106

Equine Angle ...................77

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ARABLE

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Further growth in hybrid barley anticipated after increase in plantings last autumn 0DLQWDLQLQJ WKH 6RFLDO )DEULF %\ -RKQ &DPHURQ %DOEXWKLH .LOFRQTXKDU )LIH I have always felt that our Agricultural Industry – particularly the livestock sector – never got the recognition it deserved for its contribution in maintaining the social fabric of our many fragile areas in Scotland. Particularly this is true of our Hill Sheep Industry. In many cases the last remaining families up many of our remote glens were hill shepherds where they and their families provided the last defence against rural depopulation – which has to be contrary to any Government’s policy. It was many of these families which provided the demand for the provision of the local community services such as the school and the school car, the provision of vans which went up the glens to sell their wares and often provided an important part of the local congregations. Time and time again we have seen where the sheep went off these local communities were decimated and in many cases it was the start of rural depopulation. Not only was it the demise of the sheep population that was at fault. I well remember when I was Chairman of Scotrail the most difficult task I had to perform was – when automatic signalling was 4

introduced on our Highland rail routes – to tell over a hundred families on the Oban, Mallaig and Kyle lines that manual signalmen were no longer required and at isolated places like Bridge of Orchy, Rannoch and Auchnasheen where no other railway employment was available the only alternative was redundancy and in so doing the populations of many of these remote communities was reduced by over 25% with devastating effect. Since then I have often argued that part of the Agricultural budget of the EU – particularly through the enlarged Pillar 2 source of funding should be used as a labour incentive and a payment made on labour units – employed or selfemployed on holdings in these remote and fragile areas. The possibility of a ‘labour unit payment scheme’ has been discussed in the EU Agricultural Committee but perhaps now – when we are revising the CAP – now is the time to consider more appropriate ways of avoiding the dreaded situation of de-population. Remember, once the people have gone there is nothing left!

One in five hectares of winter feed barley grown in the UK for harvest 2014 is planted with a hybrid – with the area of hybrid barley having doubled since last season. And with a proven track record of high yields seen on farm, next season is expected to see further growth.

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Those are the messages from Syngenta hybrid barley portfolio manager Dr James Taylor-Alford as growers plan cropping decisions for this autumn. In the West, East and South of the country, he says more farmers have been trying hybrid barley. While

ARABLE in Scotland and the North, where hybrid barley has been popular for a number of years, he says growers continue to look to it for yield. “Factors such as high yields from hybrid barley on-farm, plus the benefits associated with its vigorous growth, are key reasons behind its increase in popularity,” suggests Dr Taylor-Alford. “Hybrid barley is obtained by crossing genetically dissimilar varieties, which produces plants which are healthier and stronger than either of their parents, a characteristic known as hybrid vigour. In line with this, hybrid barley has been seen to produce up to 70% more total root length than a conventional barley, which enables it to scavenge more effectively for water and nutrients. It also produces flag leaves up to three times bigger than conventional

barley to capture more sunlight to drive its high yield potential. “It is this high yield on-farm that is the key point of hybrid barley,” he adds. “Clearly many growers will have seen that hybrid barley is the highest yielding barley on the HGCA Recommended List, but when it’s grown on farm we have seen even greater yield advantages. There’s typically greater soil variation across farm fields than there is in small-scale trial plots and the hybrids are well-equipped to deal with this situation. “Growers and agronomists are also using their expertise to make small but important changes between what is done in trial plot agronomy and what they do on their farms to help realise the full potential of hybrid barley. For example, ensuring that nitrogen is applied at the right time to support early spring growth.”

Aberdeenshire farm sprayer operator wins FSOOTY Award

David Bruce has won a prestigious award as one of the UK’s top farm sprayer operators. David, who works for Farquharson Farms, at Fyvie near Aberdeen, was presented his reward as the Regional Winner of the Syngenta Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year at the International Sprays and Sprayers event, held as part of Cereals 2014 in Cambridgeshire this week. The acclaimed Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year (FSOOTY) Award is run and sponsored by Syngenta, in association with Farmers Weekly. David is a highly experienced sprayer operator, protecting a diverse range of crops across the farm’s 800 hectares of arable land, including cereals and oilseed rape. The judges were particularly impressed by David’s skills in practical application techniques 6

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and his innovation to design a sprayer purpose built for the farm’s requirements. His efficient store management to ensure accurate and meticulous stock control was also highlighted. Syngenta Application Specialist, Ben Magri, said: “The FSOOTY Awards judges all aspects of farm spraying to identify the very best operators across the UK, and to share their skills and expertise. “David has consistently shown outstanding skills and works to very high standards, to achieve the best possible results. He has proved a worthy winner by demonstrating that best practice can deliver efficient, cost effective and, above all, safe crop spraying. Syngenta recognises that the skills of the sprayer operator are paramount in achieving the potential from all our crop protection products,” he added.

ARABLE

Maintain beet gene spread to include proven performance

Beet growers should select varieties that will maintain genetic diversity across their area for the 2015 growing season, advised Syngenta Technical Manager, James Evans. He warned against over reliance on a limited gene pool from one single breeder, which would increase expose to the risk of resistance or adverse conditions. “Industry advisors have countenanced caution in selecting varieties from the new Recommended List for 2015 planting to spread risk,” advised Mr Evans. “We recommend growers adopt a sensible approach to incorporate some new options, whilst maintaining

the reliability of varieties such as SY Muse that have been proven to perform, even in difficult seasons.” He pointed out that with all the 10 varieties on the 2015 BBRO/BSPB Recommended List performing at very similar yield levels there was no clear advantage in wholesale change. “Trying out a new variety will help growers to ascertain how it may perform on their farm and ensure they remain at the vanguard of varietal potential. But equally, when SY Muse has been so reliable in so many situations, growers can have confidence in its establishment, easy growing and high yield at harvest.”

Consistent results are the key reason that SY Muse has stayed as one of the lead varieties for Lincolnshire grower, Oliver Smith, of Stourton Estates, near Horncastle. This season the 65-hectare sugar beet crop has been drilled in mostly good conditions, with half the area sown with SY Muse.

The even establishment and early vigour was a key factor in achieving good yields from heavier land last year, he reported, even with the crop lifted early to avoid risk of soil damage. “Typically the stronger soil is prone to drying out with poorer establishment, but the Muse did extremely well given the season,” he said.

Fruit Focus reinforces its position as the UK’s premier fruit event Fruit Focus is underlining its position as the industry’s leading fruit event with a renewed emphasis on top fruit this year, adding to its detailed coverage of soft fruit, stone fruit, bush fruit and vines. Promotional body English Apples and Pears is exhibiting and working with organiser Haymarket Exhibitions to deliver a comprehensive top fruit programme at Fruit Focus 2014, which returns to East Malling Research, Kent on 23 July. This increased focus on top fruit will widen the event’s already broad appeal, says event director Jon Day of Haymarket Exhibitions. So far 120 exhibitors have confirmed their attendance, covering all aspects of technology, agronomy, machinery and business information that helped 8

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to attract over 1200 visitors to last year’s event. “Fruit Focus will become a key diary date for even more growers in 2014,” says Mr Day. “It will provide an excellent opportunity for growers to catch up on the latest developments across all sectors of fruit production. “The industry continues to move on apace, and Fruit Focus will help provide the answers growers need to continue investing in production and technology to drive up yield and quality, helping to secure the place of UK-grown fruit in the nation’s shopping baskets.” Tickets for Fruit Focus 2014 cost £10 and are available online or on the day. For more information about tickets and the event go to www.fruitfocus.co.uk

Another summer of activity awaits

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By Ken Headspeath Highland Drovers & Borland Farm

By the time this article is published then most of our summer show campaigns will be over. At the start of this year we took the conscious decision to increase the farm profile by attending agricultural shows. In the next few weeks we have the Angus show in Brechin, following straight on is the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh and the weekend after that is Aylth. There will then be a wee break before Kirriemuir and Perth. Our team consists of 4 Highland heifers, 2 belted Galloway bulls and 4 Hebridean sheep. Depending on how we get on and our helper’s enthusiasm for the showing circuit we may even fit in Pollock show in Glasgow and the Highland cattle show at Dalmally in October. I am not a keen showman and being honest if it relied on me to do all the showing, our idea to have such a busy year would be a dead duck. Part of the reason for taking on all this and the expenses of showing are twofold; firstly a couple recently moved into one of the farm cottages and they have had cattle showing experience in the past and they are bursting with excitement at the prospect of showing cattle, praise the lord ! Secondly, I would like to increase on farm sales and in particular Highland heifers. The usual process of selling pedigree Highland Cattle involves taking them all the way across the country to the Highland Cattle breed sales in Oban. This is expensive and time consuming activity and the recent past has shown it to be a poor way to sell stock. So with that in mind our decision to show more is

to let folk know we are here and producing some fine stock up here in the rugged hills of Glenshee. It is our intention to update the website to have the ability to show video footage of stock we have for sale and then let the buyers come to us, along with Facebook and Twitter I am sure it is a potential source of new customers who don’t have the time or inclination to head over to Oban to purchase stock. By selling them on farm we have the ability to retain and guarantee the health status and we also offer a delivery, further advice and help if required to any new purchaser. Last year we sold 6 bulling heifers to a newly established fold up in Aberdeenshire; I delivered them and have had many conversations about management and husbandry since. I sourced for them a bull and the first calves are on the ground now. They have said they will come back for more heifers later this year which I am sure they will. The relationship we have now would not have been the case if they had bought the heifers through the auction ring. Instead of the transaction and dealings finishing at the fall of the hammer I think it is better to take the view that they has just started once the price has been agreed. Earlier this year when at the Highland sale we went with the view to purchasing a second Highland stock bull to use on cows that are related to our homebred bull, Silas. At the sale there were 2 bulls that I liked; sadly at the time they went for more than the budget I had been given. After what was a

poor sale for heifers I thought to myself perhaps it was a good thing that I did not get another Highland Bull....as written above selling at Oban has not been very successful for us in recent years and perhaps a re-think was needed. So, on the long drive back I hatched a plan and proposal to give to my boss and thought how am I going to get him to agree to this? The idea was to get another breed of bull and increase our crossing stock. We have a Beef Shorthorn bull at the moment and have calves and other young-stock from him. Having taken on the rental of Balvarran we have plenty of ground and we could and I think should not sell the shorthorn heifers but keep them and have new herd of Shorthorn cross cows. Shorthorn stock is easy to sell, they mature quicker and kill-out better and sell well at all ages due to a supermarket paying a premium for Shorthorn beef. So what to go for; easy, a Simmental! I have always liked them and I was able to pick up a youngster from a neighbour who had a high health status. It is our intention to try him on a few Highland cows as well, I have seen cross Simmental / Highland before and they are good. With having the butchers shop in Perth, it will be interesting to see how the beef tastes and sells. I am hopeful that the Simmental will give size and early maturity and the Highland will retain the distinct flavour of the beef. The other big piece of news on the farm is that we have agreed to take on a new member of staff. Up until recently the only help I had was a parttime lad. He decided to move on

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and that left me with a problem. When discussing the issue of being over-worked and understaffed with wife, my daughter chipped in saying she knew of a “young lad who was looking for work”, while not being terribly enthusiastic about the idea I thought why not? I tried not to let the common thread of thought that all 16 year olds are useless get in the way. So young Tom started a few weeks back; he attends college 3 days a week and helps me the other 4 days. What a breath of fresh air and how he has greatly improved my view of today’s young. He is keen, canny and has a good way about stock. Also, he is interested in everything and wants to learn. Nothing fazes him and all he wants to do is agriculture which is odd coming from someone who is town born and bred with no history of farming in his background. I sometimes forget it’s all new to him; at times it is interesting and enlightening watching him as he approaches a task when he has no experience. He does do some silly stuff from time to time, but it makes me chuckle as I remember how it seemed not so long ago I was getting tractors stuck, breaking things and being totally gung-ho. He finishes college this summer and we will then take him on fulltime. Truth be told I think he will become too good for the job we have for him in a year or two, but while we have him I am feeling blessed. 9

POTATOES

Tong Peal Refreshes Packhouse Washing Range

The UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of handling equipment for the vegetable industry has announced an updated model of its marketleading barrel washer. Built with efficiency, reliability, gentle handing and ease of maintenance in mind, Tong Peal’s proven barrel washer design has been enhanced to incorporate the latest technology, offering users even greater washing results, while ensuring the gentlest of handling. Robust, dependable and expertly engineered to provide smooth washing operation and perfect crop movement, the enhanced system includes a number of new features alongside the latest crop processing technologies. From Tong Peal’s Blue Inverter technology driven motors for improved energy efficiency to heavy-duty side guards offering easy-access cleaning facilities for simple maintenance, the updated Barrel Washer provides the complete solution for effective crop washing. Manufactured in barrel lengths ranging from 1.2m – 5m, the Tong Peal Barrel Washer can be specified as a stand-alone unit or integrated into a new or existing handling line. The washer is available in 12 standard specifications, or can be fully customised to suit

exact washing requirements, with throughput capabilities of up to 40tph. “With over 80 years experience in manufacturing effective and gentle vegetable washing equipment, our barrel washer has been installed into hundreds of farms and packhouses across the country,� commented Simon Lee, Sales Manager at Tong Peal Engineering. “The new updates provide users with an even more effective process, helping to minimise time and labour costs, but still guaranteed by a proven and reliable design.�

One organisation effectively using the Tong Peal Barrel Washer as part of a complete washline set-up is progressive potato grower Slaney Farms Ltd. Based in Co. Wexford, Republic of Ireland, the family-run business farms and processes over 400 acres of traditional Irish potatoes every year. “Since expanding our acreage and introducing new varieties in 1994, we have seen demand for our crop increase dramatically,� commented John Stafford from Slaney Farms. “In fact, we now supply some of the country’s largest supermarkets,

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as well as independent packers across the UK and ROI. “For the last ten years, we have washed and processed our entire crop using a small static Tong Peal line, which provided throughputs of four tonnes per hour. “Although the equipment was effective and reliable, we needed a larger system to cope with increased crop volume and reduce lead times on our yearly throughput. “With this in mind, we contacted our local Tong Peal dealer for Ireland, Kevin Woods Machinery, to help us develop a custom washing

and handling line. By working closely with Kevin and the design team at Tong Peal, we specified a solution to meet our exact processing requirements. “The bespoke line consists of two 150° box tippers leading to a barrel washer with integrated destoner,

POTATOES

followed by a sponge drier, roller inspection table, lift roll grader and four exit hopper/ conveyors. “The system delivers hourly throughputs of up to 14 tonnes, helping us to turnaround a higher volume of crop quickly after harvesting.

“The line is outstanding, especially the Tong Peal Barrel Washer, which provides excellent washing results and gentle crop handling. The integrated destoner also reduces labour and processing time, protecting the rest of the line from unnecessary damage.

“Since installation, we have seen immediate results. Processing times have reduced significantly, and throughput potential has increased three-fold. Crops are handled effectively, but treated with care and attention. The layout fits our washhouse space perfectly, while meeting our exact needs.

New Dewulf R3060: the pulse of a new generation screens allow full concentration on the product flow. Space has been made inside for an ultra-modern 350 hp Scania engine with AdBlue technology that meets the stage IV final emission standards. Despite the fact that the engine has 20 more horsepower than the previous generation, Dewulf

Dewulf, a specialist in potato and carrot harvesting technology, introduces its 5th generation of 3- wheeled self-propelled two-row potato harvesters for next season. The R3060 has been completely redesigned with the focus on the user. Superior final product quality, maximum productivity in any conditions and easy to maintenance: with the Dewulf R3060, you harvest just a bit better. The new R3060 has been carefully developed further, without detracting from what makes the machine so unique. The harvester can be fully customised according to the customer's situation. Its modular design ensures no less than eight different harvester versions are available. Thanks to a wide range of options, Dewulf can tailor a harvester to any need.

has managed to reduce the consumption by up to 10%. The R3060 is equipped with first-in-class components that are available worldwide, which reduces the "total-costof-ownership" to a minimum. The chassis is even more accessible than previously and all components are within easy reach.

Even more attention has been given to the quality of the final product. Minimised drop heights, four different cleaning modules available, rubber flights in the bunker ...Dewulf leaves nothing to chance. Driving the R3060 can be called sublime, at the least. With the roomy new Claas cabin, Dewulf has created a spacious working environment focused on the driver and which guarantees a phenomenal view of the harvesting process. There is also a new set of instruments including the advanced joystick, harvesting and traction display. The 5 presettable programmes allow the driver to respond to changing conditions immediately. All control buttons are centralised which provides a great leap forward in driver ergonomics. The 6 cameras and 2 x 10 inch www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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POTATOES New event in Scotland addresses PCN challenges

Potato Council creates a new opportunity for growers in Angus to get together in July for a close examination of PCN and the ways science and industry is working together to manage it. PCN is a major threat to potato yields so this event will prove invaluable for those dealing with PCN on land used for potato crops. Alistair Redpath, Chief Executive of PseedCo, leading regional seed growers and member of the QV group, will open the event and he tells us “I am delighted to be involved with this new Potato Council event for this important growing region. This event will highlight the importance of working

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together to address PCN issues and give an overview of the research work being carried out by Potato Council and partners to deal with the threat that PCN poses to potato yields.” Responsible land use and soil testing will be examined by Dr Denise A’Hara, Head of Potato Branch at Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA), Scottish Government. Nematicides are under EU regulatory pressure. In view of the potential for loss of nematicides for PCN control, there is much interest in nonchemical means of controlling the pest. Trap-cropping is one way of achieving this and involves growing a crop specifically to

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POTATOES induce PCN to hatch ahead of potato cropping. Dr Daan Kiezebrink, applied potato pathologist, will look at how biofumigants can play a significant part in PCN control. Darryl Shailes of agronomy experts Hutchinsons will look at options for chemical control of PCN and how planning and implementing a control programme can reduce your PCN population levels and protect your potato crops. Archie Gibson, Managing Director of Agrico (UK) Ltd will update you on what industry is doing now to prevent PCN and how PCN-resistant varieties can make a huge difference to yield and quality. James Daw, of Staffordshire-based farmers and growers W B Daw & Son, will talk about his own experiences of precision farming and how applying technology can help reduce your risks and increase the rewards. Plus, John Reid of the host family partnership will guide us on a short tour giving an overview of their potato growing enterprise.

Claire Hodge, who leads the event for Potato Council, tells us “I talk regularly with Scottish growers about many issues and increasingly how PCN is a major cause for concern. This is compounded by increasing regulatory pressure from the EU on chemical treatments. So I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to create this new event which focuses on PCN and what research is being done to provide solutions.” Ma^ >Zlm h_ L\hmeZg] IhmZmh >o^gm bl _k^^ mh Zmm^g] Zg] pbee [^ a^e] [^mp^^g *-,)&*2,) ahnkl hg Mn^l]Zr *. Cner +)*- Zm G^pfbee H_ ;Ze`Zob^l ?Zkf% ?hk_Zk% :g`nl% ==1 +L?' Bg]nlmkr bl pZkfer bgobm^] mh chbg IhmZmh <hng\be Zg] ma^ ^qi^kml _hk ma^ Z_m^kghhg l ikh`kZff^% pbma k^_k^laf^gml Zg] Zg bg_hkfZe lnii^k ZoZbeZ[e^ _hk iZkmb\biZgml' Get information on this event at www. potato.org.uk/events/ east-scotland-potatoday-2014

Potato traders advice line launched by Thorntons and BPTA A legal advice line has been launched by leading law firm, Thorntons, and the British Potato Trade Association (BPTA). The two organisations have partnered to offer members of the BPTA the opportunity to gain free advice on legal issues. The BPTA has been keen to get a Scottish law firm to help them support potato producers in Scotland. Thorntons will also be working with the BPTA to provide a training day for its members in September. Producers are being encouraged to contact the helpline for advice on a range of topics including contract law, estate planning, dispute

resolution, immigration, land and rural property, employment law and debt collection. BPTA offers its membership unique Conditions for the Purchase and Sale of Seed Potatoes and an associated arbitration system that should help resolve disputes. Even so in any dispute it is important to obtain early legal advice and BPTA members now have a choice of helpline and one that it is local to their area. B_ rhn Zk^ Z f^f[^k h_ ma^ ;IM: Zg] rhn aZo^ Z ikh[e^f m^e^iahg^ ma^ a^eiebg^ hg )*,1+ ++2***' :em^kgZmbo^er% rhn \Zg l^g] Zg ^fZbe mh cdr]]9mahkgmhgl&eZp'\h'nd hk ekZ^9mahkgmhgl&eZp'\h'nd

Moving past feudalism and self-interest The Land Reform Review Group (LRRG), which was appointed by Scottish Ministers to identify how land reform will radically change the way land is owned and used in Scotland, published its Final Report recently. The title “The Land of Scotland and the Common Good” conveys the clear message of where the results of the group’s deliberations lie. One of the stated purposes of the Scottish Government’s Land Use Strategy for Scotland is “to promote the wellbeing of the nation”. The report reflects this very competently and its sixtyodd recommendations, if taken up by Scottish Government, would see historic land reform “ensuring it reflects Scotland's needs for the 21st century and beyond” as the Minister for Environment Paul Wheelhouse MSP envisioned. But there will, naturally, be those who are resistant to anything that moves Scotland away from the most concentrated land ownership model in the world. At the beginning of the Parliamentary committee session taking of evidence on the report from stakeholders, it was apparent that some groups had complained that they did not get consulted sufficiently. The president of National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) said during, and again after the meeting to the press, that “NFUS had concerns that farming interests did not have the desired level of input into the report.” Take that as you will. It should not really be a surprise, but of the many stakeholder organisations represented at the session, only two, Scottish Land & Estates and the NFUS had any complaint of the consultation process. It is not hard to see where their concerns lie if one reads the LRRG Final Report. For example the groups comments on CAP: “There has been no cap or upper limit on the total amount of agricultural subsidy that can be paid to a single business and the inequality in the distribution of the subsidies amongst farm businesses has increased. In 2008, for example, the top fifty

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By Patrick Krause , Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation recipients were paid £22 million and that had risen to £35 million by 2011, with the top 10% of farm businesses receiving 48.6% of the total amount of agricultural support of £710.4 million that year.” Yes, there’s a lot of money at stake here. They go on to recommend, “The Review Group considers that there should be limits on the payments to the largest beneficiaries. The agricultural subsidies are, like the tax concessions described above, capitalised into higher land prices and contribute to an increasing concentration in the ownership of farms on Scotland's better agricultural land. The Group also considers that the value for money in terms of public benefits from public funds for aspects of the CAP agricultural subsidy schemes should be much clearer than is the case at present.” So, as I said, no great surprise that some don’t like the report, but to question its competence? As Andy Wightman, probably Scotland’s foremost expert on land reform pointed out that, “Those who find the report difficult to deal with — mainly the landed interest — are attempting to undermine its credibility by suggesting that the group did not speak to people whom it should have spoken to and did not take evidence that it should have taken.” A point well made.

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COMBINES

The Big Beasts in the fields

A look at six of the latest combine models on the market for 2014

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NRH Rollers

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14

IMMA silver award for Case IH Axial-Flow 9230 combine Case IH’s Axial-Flow 9230 was the only combine to receive an IMMA award at the Cereals event held on the 11th and 12th June. It won a silver award in the harvest machinery category. The new International Machinery Manufacturer’s Awards (IMMA) reward companies that have produced machines that show particular innovation, effectiveness and value. The Axial-Flow 9230 is a single rotor machine with the highest-available capacity, dual control unloading system. The judges highlighted the innovative pivoting auger spout, and “a 10.4 folding unloading auger allowing adoption of a true 12 metre control traffic system�. This compliments the 9230’s 41 foot / 12m cut header option - currently the widest in the UK. Organised by the Cereals Event, the awards are supported by the Agricultural Engineers’ Association, The Institution of Agricultural Engineers, The Royal Agricultural University

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and Farmers Weekly, and were presented at an awards ceremony on 11th June. On receiving the award, Charles Blessley, Marketing Manager, Case IH UK and Ireland said, “We are delighted to have won this prestigious award for the Axial-Flow 230 series. The award confirms Case IH’s position at the leading edge of agricultural machinery development and demonstrates our committment to new technology, value and effectiveness�. The Axial-Flow combine has already won three other awards this year. It received FIMA’s Technological Innovation award for its unique pivoting grain spout, while its grain handling system was recognised at the US ASABE Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference. ASABE also awarded Case IH a prize for their new combine maize header. The six Case IH Axial-Flow combine harvesters comprise three ‘130 Series machines, the 5130, 6130 and 7130 from 299hp to 415hp, together with the ‘230 Series combines, the 7230, 8230 and 9230 from 449hp to 571hp. Efficient Case IH FPT Tier 4 SCR engines deliver an average fuel saving of 10% over Tier 3 power units. New models from Claas UK Following the introduction of the latest TIER 4i compliant LEXION and TUCANO combine ranges last autumn, Claas has extended the range with the addition of two new entry-level models – the hybrid LEXION 740 and the 5- straw-walker TUCANO 420. At the same time Claas has also added a new TERRA TRAC version of the LEXION 750 to the range, in addition to a number of new developments designed to further facilitate ease of use and enhance the driver assistance systems fitted

to the LEXION combine range. Finally a new version of the AVERO 240 will be available that meets the higher TIER 4f emission standards. The addition of the new LEXION 740 extends the availability of all the high performance features of the LEXION Hybrid range in a new entry level model. Currently the smallest model in the Hybrid LEXION 700 range is the LEXION 750 which is powered by a 449hp engine. The new LEXION 740 features the same TIER 4i compliant 6-cylinder C9.3 engine developing a maximum power output of 400hp at 1700rpm. As with the larger LEXION 750, the new 740 has a 1420mm wide APS accelerator and closed threshing drum, feeding into the twin 4.2m long ROTO PLUS secondary separation system with Jet Stream cleaning and is suitable for use with cutterbars up to 9.0 metres wide. As standard, the LEXION 740 features a 10,000 litre grain tank and is controlled using the latest C MOTION multi-function joystick, with all the main operating settings monitored using the colour CEBIS II terminal. As with the rest of the LEXION 700 Hybrid range, a wide range of options are available, including the advanced CEMOS and CEMOS Automatic combine performance optimisation system, which fully automates grain cleaning and separation. CEMOS Automatic monitors over 50 different settings and can be used to continuously monitor and automatically adjust the combine threshing and separation settings for optimum grain quality and output. A new development for 2014 is the option of a new Grain Quality Camera for the LEXION 780 and 770. Using a high-definition colour camera mounted in the top of the grain elevator, the images are processed using image evaluation software to highlight broken or non-grain constituents, which are then

COMBINES

Claas Lexion 740

displayed either as a real-time image or bar diagram on the CEBIS screen. On combines fitted with CEMOS AUTOMATIC, this information is also used to extend functionality and provide additional information to further enhance CEMOS AUTOMATIC and enable the system to automatically monitor grain quality and further reduce losses. The new DEUTZ-FAHR C9000 combine harvester DEUTZ-FAHR is launching a new range of combine harvesters for the 2014 season. The C9000 series, with its new technical innovations has been designed to bring a new dimension to harvesting efficiency and operator comfort and, in collaboration with Giugiaro Design, the style of the new machines has been completely reworked in line with the latest Deutz-Fahr tractors. The new range comprises four models: The C9205 TS and C9206 TS with 5 and 6-straw walkers, and the C9205 TSB and C9206 TSB hill models having the slope compensation Balance system (20% lateral

D-K-R

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Main Dealers for JOHN DEERE Combines

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. :HVWรฐHOG &RXOWHU %LJJDU /DQDUNVKLUH 0/ +1 7HO รท )$; ( 0DLO GNUFRXOWHU#KRWPDLO FRP

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15

COMBINES and 6% longitudinal). The hill modes are also equipped with new adjustable rear axle and 4WD traction, with the proven and exclusive Anti-Skid system which maximises productivity on all working terrains. Powered by DEUTZ engines (7.8 litre TCD L6 T4i) to guarantee optimum performance in the field with 334hp output for the C9205 and 395hp for the C9206, fuel consumption is one of the lowest for this power category due to the use of SCR technology and the advanced technical design of the machine which, uniquely, employs transmissions positioned on each side of the engine. All models are equipped with the high-performance cutter bar, now also available in the 9.0 metre version. A one-piece construction, the Autocontrol device and the Schumacher Easy Cut II system ensures safe and efficient

Deutz Fahr C900

operation in all conditions, providing a uniform cut with minimal wear. In addition to the new and improved Maxi-Crop threshing

REEKIE GROUP

Massey Ferguson Combines available for demonstration now...

For more information contact your local branch Stirling 01786 477530

Cupar 01334 652445

or visit our website

Perth 01738 622471

www.reekie.co.uk 16

system and the exclusive concave with adjustable sections, the hydraulic feed passage inversion system and the Extra Feeding supply system (along with other specifics) have been redesigned by the Deutz-Fahr engineers. The new and exclusive electro-hydraulic bearing control system on the header is just one of several innovative developments on the new harvesters which help to ensure there is a continuous and uniform feed delivered to the threshing components. Separation capacity, performance is optimised by the Maxi-Crop system and also by the long straw walkers. Cereal cleaning and integrity are guaranteed by other exclusive proven DEUTZ-FAHR systems, including the grain pan with its 2-step removable sections, the turbo-ventilator, the wide sieves and the DGR (Double Grain Return) recovery system on each side of the machine. The high visibility driver's cab is integrated into the new design, with an array of lights and mirrors with dual-reflectors and electrical adjustment. The soft, welcoming driver and passenger seats are equipped with a capacious 21 litre integrated thermo cooler, offering maximum comfort

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and convenience during long working days. John Deere’s flagship combines now produced in Zweibrücken As of this year John Deere’s largest S-Series combines – the 540hp S680, 570hp S685, 617hp S690 and their respective ‘i’ versions for the European and CIS markets – are being produced in Zweibrücken, Germany as well as the US. “We already have 50 years of experience in combine production for European and overseas markets and have invested approximately 20 million euros in our assembly facilities, infrastructure and quality assurance,” says factory manager Ralf Gaa. “It is another milestone for Zweibrücken that we can now label the entire range of John Deere W-, T- and S-Series combines as ‘Made in Germany’. By adding the biggest S-Series manufacturing to Zweibrücken, we can react better than ever to the growing demand for high-capacity rotary combines.” Equipped with a grain tank capacity of up to 14,100 litres, John Deere’s large horsepower S-Series combines feature a single tine rotor and have been

designed to provide maximum performance and excellent grain and straw quality. Their highly flexible residue management system meets a variety of harvest requirements. Complementing the wide range of existing John Deere cutting platforms for combines, the new, versatile 600X header with extendable cutterbar will be available in limited quantities and countries for the 2014 harvest. S-Series combines are also available with a number of intelligent solutions, including the new interactive combine adjustment (ICA). Designed to minimise losses and maximise both grain and straw quality, ICA offers the operator a choice of several harvesting strategies and either single or multiple optimisation targets. To further enhance machine and fleet performance, John Deere S-Series combines can be fitted with JDLink telematics and Machine Sync harvesting logistics systems, both elements of the John Deere FarmSight strategy. In addition, John Deere’s GoHarvest mobile phone app is now available as a free download for smartphones and tablets. This latest application allows operators in the field to optimise their combine easily and always have the recommended John Deere settings to hand. The New Massey Ferguson Beta Combine Range Massey Ferguson’s MF BETA five and six walker combine harvesters come equipped with a completely ‘Skyline’ cab and other new features to boost operator comfort and overall productivity. The Skyline cab brings the highest levels of vision, comfort and control to Massey Ferguson’s best-selling harvester range, providing a working environment and specifications normally only found on premium combines. The Skyline cab interior provides an excellent workspace,

COMBINES

John Deere S690i

superb visibility through noisereducing glass, along with a totally new control arm console equipped with the new Powergrip controller. It is also fitted with a new Techtouch terminal that provides full monitoring and control along with automatic setting for multiple crops. Equipped with state-of-theart features and control systems the cab is manufactured using the highest quality materials. It not only looks good, but operators will also appreciate the quality ‘feel’. With its luxury features and unsurpassed levels of specification the Skyline sets the combine cab benchmark. The Skyline cab will be standard for all 2013 season models in the Massey Ferguson Beta series combine harvesters, which includes the five-walker MF 7360 at 276hp* and the sixwalker MF 7370 at 360hp**. Both are also available with the unique ParaLevel system that provides levelling on slopes up to 20%. (*Max Power; **Max power, plus 30hp boost for unloading). The Skyline cab is a completely new structure www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

17

COMBINES

Massey Ferguson Skyline

WILKS BROTHERS Introducing the New C9000 Series Combine Harvesters

Sales • Service • Parts Repairs for a wide range of Agricultural Machinery Murthly, Perthshire, PH1 4HG Tel: 01738 710381 Fax: 01738 710581 18

from its safe and secure steps, through to everything inside from the roof-lining to the floor mat. Constructed from the latest, highest quality and novel materials, operators benefit from advanced technology that increases control and comfort. Fully automatic air conditioning/ heating is standard. A large, curved front windscreen offers superb a view of the key areas and out to the edge of the widest headers. The tinted screen is made from laminated safety glass that incorporates a unique, ‘Trosifol Sound Control’ layer. Along with other excellent insulation throughout the cab, this allows operators to work in quiet comfort. An air-suspended operator seat is standard, complemented by a comfortable instructor seat, fitted above a cooler and storage box. The fully adjustable steering column suits all operator shapes and sizes and its narrow dimensions provide a clear view on to the header. Externally the cab’s clean, sleek lines match the bold new bodywork. New H9 lighting clusters – four at each side of the roof, and three worklights on the platform flood the work area

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with light. New, heated and electrically adjusted two-part mirrors provide a completely clear view behind and to the sides of the machine. New Holland Combines The latest generations of New Holland CX7000 and CX8000 Elevation super conventional combines are the world’s most powerful strawwalker machines. With up to 490hp, the CX range delivers unsurpassed straw quality and the cleanest grain sample, boosted by a string of ultra-responsive features. For instance, the effects of slopes on the cleaning system are neutralized by the award-winning variable Opti-Fan, which comes as standard. The fan speed varies both to prevent losses and thick build-ups: boosting harvesting performance. Furthermore, the OptiClean™ system delivers up to 20 per cent more efficient cleaning. Standard on machines specified with a self-levelling cleaning shoe, it optimises the stroke and throwing angles in the cleaning system. Productivity for the CX7000 and CX8000 Elevation is boosted by a further 10 per cent by the ground-breaking OptiSpeed™ strawwalkers, using a system that automatically varies the speed based on the field’s gradient. An increase in grain tank sizes has been welcomed too and the CX8080 and CX8090 Elevation in particular now benefit from a maximum 11,500-litre tank. Unloading speed now tops 125 litres/ second, 14 per cent faster, emptying the largest grain tank in just over 90 seconds. Meanwhile, compaction is reduced and traction increased with the in-house designed New Holland SmartTrax™ rubber track system. Available on the CX7090, CX8080 and CX8090 Elevations models, the triangle structure reduces

ground pressure by up to 57 per cent compared to wheeled machines. The entire CX range is equipped with the IntelliView™ IV, 26.4cm ultra-wide colour touchscreen monitor, plus an upgraded seat with deep cushions and extended fore-after adjustment. As ever, New Holland is developing new technology and Cereals 2014 on June 11-12 was the stage for the long-awaited UK debut of the new Varifeed™ 41-foot grain header for the New Holland CR combine harvester. The adjustment range for the knife in longitudinal direction is 575mm and adjustment is performed electro-hydraulically from the cab to suit all harvesting conditions. The header is equipped with four wide Autofloat™ sensing pads that enable its height and lateral inclination to adjust automatically.

COMBINES

New Holland CX 8000

DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) CASE Ramsey & Jackson www.ramjack.co.uk Mauchline : 01290 550329

DEUTZ FAHR Mark Garrick Tractors www.markgarricktractors.co.uk Elgin : 01343 551637

Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk Earlston : 01896 848404 Coldstream : 01890 840458 East Linton : 01620 860348

Wilks Brothers Murthly : 01738 710381

CLAAS J&W Tait Ltd www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall, Orkney : 01856 873003

JOHN DEERE DKR Agricultural Services www.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagri Biggar : 01899 220897 MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282

MASSEY FERGUSON Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

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NEW HOLLAND Ravenhill www.ravenhill.co.uk Aberdeen : 01224 772577 Dingwall : 01349 863555 Elgin : 01343 541121 Maud : 01771 613246 Turriff : 01888 563561

19

IN

ULTIMATE DIVERSIFICATION An interview with Richard Webber, Director of Shearwell Data

Drive past Exmoor villages through deep Somerset lanes, spot a small sign in a hedge, murmuring Shearwell, see a cattle grid leading to a smooth road, turn a corner and there, perched on the hill is a well filled car park surrounding the large, modern building which houses Shearwell Data Ltd. Glorious views stretch for miles. Warmly welcomed, to Richard Webber’s office, past photographs of him as a young man shearing sheep with skill and speed acquired in New Zealand. His ambition then was to work hard and acquire enough money to farm, following his father. To this end, aged 21, he borrowed £200 and started contract shearing, dealing with as many as 400 a day, having decided to specialise in sheep, his father being a dairy farmer. He was the first person on Exmoor to change the traditional way of using a catcher to pass the sheep on to the shearer, preferring to make a pen, catching and shearing his sheep himself – no doubt causing some criticism. Once farming, he brought his New Zealand experience into play, always aiming to increase profits and discover new and better ways to manage things. He spent seven seasons shearing in Norwegian abattoirs, where tagging of animals had been introduced, and realised their value, particularly tags which did not vanish, as 40% of regular ones seemed to do. He started importing these, selling them locally and gradually building up a small business. When EU instigated trials of electronic tagging, the UK did 20

not take part, despite many people feeling it might become compulsory in the future. Some of our representatives were of the opposite view although many considered it inevitable, with control of movement for managing disease becoming essential. Finally, the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak forced a directive and all animals had to be tagged from birth onwards, and movements rigidly controlled. Technology has increased massively during these years, and Shearwell Data was founded in 1990 and reflects this growth. The programmes available cover every aspect of stock management for farmers, enabling them to provide reports and records required by law, whilst improving their own detailed knowledge of each animal and its progress and health. Just as almost everyone has a smart phone filled with data, modern farmers can control every aspect of their business (except the weather!) from the superb “Farm Works” by Shearwell. Richard felt most strongly that farmers often failed to profit from their hard work and investment, while more detailed management of stock, identifying unprofitable animals and highlighting successful breeding lines would improve profits and give farmers more control of their own produce. The concept of the National Livestock Management Database is, in his view, the most vital tool for giving farmers involvement with their stock after leaving the farm gate. He would like the NLMD to be held and managed mainly by farmers,

the information being, in his words, the “last great untapped agricultural commodity”. He thinks farmers should think about this concept, finding out exactly where it could benefit them. Every farmer has a slightly different approach to their work, but stock management can only be helped by more detailed information. The cliché “knowledge is power” resonates here, and it is essential the power remains with the producer, and does not get diluted by people outside the farming world. The day to day attitude of so many smaller farmers who share machinery, help each out in all manner

Richard Webber

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of ways, and collaborate generally, could apply to this concept. Working together, joining in, using any and every means to improve profits and thereby benefiting the whole profession, is central to the whole plan. Every farmer has found to his or her dismay that vital tags have vanished just before sending stock to the slaughterhouse or to market. Shearwell tags are so reliable they are sold worldwide to the tune of 8500 million per year, and the map of the world in the office shows the astonishing range they cover, from Saudi Arabia and Brazil

IN

via Europe to Russia. The company employs 65 people, mostly local, and has a handson approach to its customers, ready to help, advise, replace where necessary, and tailor its highly technical data to suit different styles of farming and stock management. Shearwell has taken its business model to Australia where they have a factory in Bendigo supplying sheep tags to Australia and New Zealand from there. Besides the tags, the company markets a wide variety of items needed for stock control. They attend agricultural shows, both local and countrywide, their website is highly professional and much used, but Richard says most of their customers come through their reputation. His aim is always to make life easier and more profitable for farmers. He professes not to understand technology, but certainly manages to find staff who do. Above all, he understands his customers thoroughly, can put himself in their shoes and therefore provide exactly what they need technically and personally; a telephone or email for help or advice gets a human response. Always looking forward, he has various new and innovative ideas in train, all of which will undoubtedly be seized upon by

his world class customers. A tour of the building - a former barn - is both instructive and enormously impressive. Watching people produce the tags, seeing the programmers perform their mysterious alchemy, holding the stick reader which reads the electronic tags, designing the machinery and learning that they are the only company which produces its own software, one realises the worldwide aspect of this business based in deeply rural Somerset, run by a genuine farmer is a truly impressive experience. We hear of farmers diversifying - Richard has taken his diversification to another level. Through another door, and find ourselves in an airy barn filled to the brim with contented sheep, happily munching away, unaware that their ancestors were the corner stone of this splendid enterprise. The contrast between the high tech, smoothly running, successful business humming away at one end and the cosy sheep at the other is extremely gratifying. B_ rhn phne] ebd^ mh Ûg] hnm fhk^% ie^Zl^ \Zee La^Zkp^ee hg )*/-, 1-*/** hk oblbm ma^bk p^[lbm^ ppp'la^Zkp^ee'\h'nd

Making use of technology using a smart phone filled with data.

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7

PERTH SHOW

Perth Show One of the biggest events in the business and social calendar for Scotland’s newest city. And of course our magazine’s hometown show too. Always a great few days, weather permitting!

Some of the Trophies up for grabs

Perthshire Agricultural Society has run Perth Show on the Lesser South Inch within the city since 1901. The show moved across the road to the larger South Inch in 1998 and 1999. Due to the flood prevention scheme installed by the council both of the parks were out of use for the years 2000 and 2001 which meant the Show Committee had to find another site to hold the Show. Scone Palace was the choice and for the two years the show was held there. Unfortunately 2001 proved a testing year due to an outbreak of foot and mouth and the committee only decided in May of that year to go ahead with a show minus cloven footed animals. Horses took pride of place on the two days with light legged horses and ponies being shown on Friday and heavy horses on Saturday. Without a doubt the grand parade was not the spectacle usually seen at Perth Show due to the lack of cattle, sheep and goats.

2013 Harness champion

22

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In 2002 the show returned to the city and to the larger of the two Inches. Work commenced and marquees, cattle, horse, sheep and goat pens were erected in readiness for the show when torrential rain fell and the South Inch became flooded to the depth of two feet of water. Very disappointed, officials of the show had to cancel the 2002 show. Strangely enough on the two show days the sun shone brilliantly but unfortunately the ground was still flooded. The cost to the Society was horrendous. 2003 arrived and it was decided the show should return to its’ old site back on the Lesser Inch. The committee of directors felt the expense of the previous year demanded considerable savings on costs and it was decided, other than the perimeter fence, the committee, with assistance of friends etc., would erect the showground themselves. With courage and fortitude under

PERTH SHOW

Perth Show Directors

the leadership of Graham Shaw, Chairman, that year, the group set about erecting the showground. The decision proved excellent and since then the directors have erected the showground saving thousands of pounds. Unfortunately the show was struck by bad luck in 2007 when an outbreak of Foot and Mouth struck on the Friday evening. The Show had approximately 100 Charolais Cattle on the show field for their National Show and a ban was put on the movement of any animals. The Chairman and Directors moved into action and by 11pm the showground was meeting all the bio-securities regulations required. The team then phoned all cattle, sheep, goat exhibitors and judges to warn them not to come the following day. By 4am the secretary wearily went to bed but rose again by 4.30am unable to sleep. On the Saturday morning the cattle which were on the showground and isolated were all tested and at 1pm the lorries started

moving out of the isolation area with all the blood testing completed. In 2012 disaster again. The summer was so wet the committee on the Wednesday prior to the show cancelled the Friday to save Saturday. This proved to be the correct decision as the sun was shining on Thursday and Friday giving the show ground a chance to dry. The weather on Saturday was excellent and crowds thronged into the show. Last year the Show had to move to the larger of the two Inches once again and this time under the leadership of Chairman Roddy Thomson, directors and friends not only erected the pens etc., but also the perimeter fence. The tenacity of the Perth Show Committee is inexhaustible and they are a team ready to overcome everything thrown at them to get the Show on the road. Perth Show committee’s objective is to bring the country to town and try to educate the public on farming. The Show has assisted breed societies in www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

23

PERTH SHOW

Bulls on parade Working Hunter Horse Champion

cattle, sheep and donkeys, to bring National Breed Shows to Perth Show. Perth Show has hosted breed shows for Hereford, Simmental, Charolais and Aberdeen Angus cattle and Border Leicester, Beltex, and Zwartbles sheep. Also the Scottish Donkey Breed Society Show has been held at Perth.

2014 Perth Show is hosting the Limousin Grand Prix Show, the Bluefaced Leicester Progeny Show and once again the Scottish Donkey Breed Show. The show commences on Friday 1st August 2014 with judging of ponies and horses of all types. From tiny tots on Shetland ponies to accomplished

REEKIE GROUP

Give us a call for a competitive price for your agricultural machinery requirements

equestrians on magnificent hunters the day is packed with all things horsey. Working Hunter Ponies and Horses showing their ability over the ground and over jumps. The day concludes with the championships of the Ponies and Horses, then the Supreme Friday Champion being judged between the Overall Horse and Overall Pony Champion. This year there is an added attraction to Friday with the inclusion of a parade of horses and ponies rescued by the World Horse Welfare and a commentary of their story will be given via a tape by Claire Balding and a live commentary from Fiona Whitaker from Glenfarg. Saturday starts at about 6am for some of the committee with livestock appearing from about 6.30am. All livestock will

For more information contact your local branch Perth 01738 622471 Stirling 01786 477530

Cupar 01334 652445 Coldstream 01890 882098

or visit our website

www.reekie.co.uk 24

Great day out for the family

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

be penned ready for judging which commences at 8.00 with the Shetland Ponies. Judging continues throughout the morning culminating in the Champion of Champions being judged at approximately 1.30pm. The stockmen get a breather before the call to the Grand Parade at 2.30pm. The Grand Parade of prize winning stock is a spectacle to be seen. The spectators crowd round the ring to see those wonderful animals which have been groomed magnificently by their owners. After the Grand Parade the main ring entertainment commences with the highlight this year being Bolddog Lings Freestyle Motocross Display. Elsewhere in the show field The Clan Stunt Team will perform acrobatic tricks on bicycles. The afternoon

PERTH SHOW SWRI and Farmhouse Kitchen marquee is always a busy area. The Show also supports the Royal Highland Educational Trust (RHET) and the Perthshire Association of Young Farmers. These two organisations share a marquee and a visit is always very worthwhile and educational. Perthshire Agricultural Society is very grateful to its’ main sponsors and to all other sponsors. Without their generosity the show could not continue. Ma^ <aZbkfZg Kh]]r Mahflhg Zg] =bk^\mhkl h_ ma^ Lahp ahi^ rhn aZo^ Z `hh] \hnie^ h_ ]Zrl Zm I^kma'

Competitions with a twist

entertainment culminates with pony club games. This is an activity really worth watching, seeing the agility of the ponies and the daredevil and acrobatic

horsemanship of the kids as they compete for the coveted trophy. Throughout the two days there are approximately 130

trade stands selling toys to huge mechanical machinery. The craft marquee is very popular also with lots of different articles for sale. The

Anything further you want to know contact the secretary, Neil C Forbes, at secretary@perthshow. co.uk or telephone 01738 623780.

Texacloth is buying in Scotland this year for the 21st year, and we pay in full on the day for good clean wool.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

25

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They say it’s a long way to Tipperary but it was a longer way to Tobermory in the 1970’s from the South West of England. However, that is exactly the road Jeff and Chris Reade took when they left their dairy farm in Somerset to set up in business on the Isle of Mull. While walking on holiday, they found the derelict remains of Sgriob-ruadh Farm and immediately fell in love with it. When closed offers were invited for the property, the whole family travelled from Somerset to be in the Solicitors office when the envelopes were opened. They were devastated when their offer was not the highest, however that night

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they received a call informing them that the current owner had insisted that the family should have the farm. With four teenage boys coming with them, the vendor could see a future for the island as well as the family. The four boys, then 10, 16, 17 and 18 moved to the island with 5 cows while Jeff and Chris farmed in Somerset until all was complete. The boys sold milk around the island and when the family eventually settled at what is still the only dairy farm on Mull, they carried on a milk round for some 15 years. The house was restored and the steading built from anything which could be

)/$9285 2) 6&27/$1' recycled, including the shop and cafÊ which is an amazing conservatory recycled from the metal frame of an old village hall which was built in a Glasgow steelworks. With the fluctuating market in milk in the 90’s, the family had to look at diversifying and after reading all they could on cheese production and talking to other producers, they started making cheese in a bucket until they found exactly what they wanted to produce; something different. A cheese with a unique flavour produced in a way which was sympathetic to the milk production, to the milk itself and to the traditional art of artisan cheese making, well known in the islands. A type of strong flavoured cheese made with unpasteurised milk, which would keep well and travel well, without the need for refrigeration. With no additional colouring, the cheese made in the winter when the cattle are on hay is lighter in colour than the spring grass fed cheese. The milk literally leaves the cow and travels around the

corner to the cheese making shed, making it a truly natural and well cared for product. Loaded with samples of the new cheese, Jeff and Chris headed off in their van and stopped everywhere they could from Mull to London until they found someone who would buy their cheese. Their hard work, enthusiasm and attention to detail finally paid off and in 2000 they stopped the production of liquid milk and put it all into producing Isle of Mull Cheese, of which there are now 80 different types and can be found in many delicatessens. The lady who originally sold them the derelict farm was right! The boys all stayed on the Island and have their families there now too. Sadly Jeff died last year but Chris continues to welcome visitors and show them round. To recognise their achievement the British Cheese Awards have now introduced a category for the best Scottish Cheese which will be known as the Jeff Reade Award. Quite a legacy!

“Strathearn Pie� Gets Seal of Approval from Royal Couple The local producers behind the development of a very special “Strathearn Pie� are delighted the culinary creation proved a huge hit during this week's visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The royal couple, known in Scotland as the Earl and Countess of Strathearn, described the pie as "delicious" during their visit yesterday to The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery, Crieff. The special pie was carefully crafted using two ingredients Strathearn is famed for - top quality Scotch Beef PGI and award-winning Glenturret Scotch whisky.

The pie’s ingredient list also included locally-grown root vegetables - however the exact details of the recipe remain a closely guarded secret! The couple sampled the Strathearn Pie, along with guests, during a visit to The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret, Scotland’s oldest working distillery. During their visit to the distillery, William and Kate also bottled their own Glenturret whisky as well as officially opening the new-look Famous Grouse Experience, which attracts more than 100,000 people to the distillery each year.

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FARM FOODIE

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By Athole Murray Fleming

Summer Harvest Chilli Infused mild cold pressed Rapeseed Oil Ferneyfold Farm, Madderty, Perthshire www.summerharvestoils.co.uk To begin my light garden snack for this edition, I sprinkled this lovely mild oil over my own freshly picked salad leaves to help accompany my oatcakes, Onion Marmalade and ubiquitous cup of tea. The overall flavour of the oil is indeed very subtle at the beginning, then there is a rush of heat to the back of the palate. The ‘kick’ I enjoy, and I wanted more, so another less subtle sprinking was called for. Oh yes, here comes that ‘zing’ again, great. This wonderful Oil really does bring boring old salad leaves to life. I can see why this producer has won quite a followers for their range of oils, and I am now one of them.

Crieff, the town at the hub of Strathearn, is proud home to Scotland’s oldest working distillery, and is also a historic market town which hosted the sales of thousands of cattle in years gone by from which the iconic, and now worldfamous, Scotch Beef brand evolved. Indeed, the Perthshire town still celebrates the ancient “trysts” which historically saw huge numbers of cattle

and their drovers converge from throughout Scotland in a spectacular gathering in the area each year. The idea to create a special local pie to celebrate the proud “Scotch” heritage of Strathearn – as a producer of quality beef and whisky – originated from Lesley Williamson, a Member of staff at The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery.

Onion Marmalade Galloway Lodge Preserves, Gatehouse of Fleet, Galloway www.gallowaylodge.co.uk With spoon in hand, I ladled out a fair sized lump of this sticky, jammy dark onion marmalade to have on my oatcakes, and my first thought was that this had better taste as good as it is gooey? Well, I did. I loved the rich, almost bitter sweetness of the onion, and the thick set sensation was to be really appreciated. This was a very yummy marmalade indeed, and I look forward to finishing the jar off within the next few days in my garden – sunshine permitting of course. A truly lovely summer snack. Editor’s Choice? I will buy more of the Onion Marmalade because I will finish it first! As for Summer Harvest Oils? Well, I need to add a few more to our larder. So, both is my answer.

28

R-Biopharm Rhône leads European drive to detect potentially fatal substances in wine Scottish science company R-Biopharm Rhône has made a major breakthrough which will help health and food standards authorities identify a potentially harmful antibiotic in wine and foodstuffs in the UK. The Glasgow-based company has developed a screening kit which looks for traces of chloramphenicol, a prohibited antibiotic which is misused in the farming, the seafood industry and in apiculture. This antibiotic is banned from foodstuffs entering the food chain due

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to increasing resistance and in extreme cases; chloramphenicol can cause anaphylactic shock which, in vulnerable people, can be fatal. R-Biopharm Rhône, one of Scotland's most successful scientific exporters, originally developed the test to detect chloramphenicol in honey and seafood, and has now extended its methods to include wine, grape juice and enzymes which are used in food production. EU rules state that food and wine must be

)/$9285 2) 6&27/$1' completely chloramphenicolfree. Increased testing for chloramphenicol came into effect last year when the EU's Rapid Alert System reported that the banned antibiotic had been found in enzymes used in food production I September 2013 with a second alert this month. R-Biopharm Rhône is the only enterprise in the UK using immunoaffinity columns to screen for and clean up residues of chloramphenicol, with standards well in excess of EU requirements and detection below 0.3 parts per billion. Its new products will enhance EU detection efforts with enzymes which are imported into Europe from countries such as India.

Whisky

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Ready, Steady, Jam – World Jampionships 2014 Now in their fourth year The World Jampionships aims to preserve traditional jam making skills the world over and build up jam making at all levels with categories for both amateur and professional artisan jam-makers. This year the Junior Jam category is open to children and in a World Jampionships first, a new One Jammy Man category is launched in a bid to find male jam makers. Other special categories are reserved for worldwide members of women’s institutes; first time jam makers, hospitality businesses like guesthouses and bed & breakfasts; and teams of jammakers. Twelve classes of jam entries are invited ranging from traditional varieties like strawberry and blackcurrant to Merry Berry (an alcoholic

jam), chocolate jams and savoury jams. There is also a special class for jelly entries. Tracey Baxter, World Jampionship Founder and Organiser said “We want to find the ultimate Jambassadors and are calling on people all over the world to have a go. Making jam is something that everyone can get involved in. It’s a great way of making the most of our fruit crops and people can be as inventive as they like with flavour combinations. Jam making doesn’t have to be complicated and most jams can be made in under an hour. And when you’ve made it yourself, you know exactly what you’re eating. Lovely strawberry jam made in the summer can brighten up homemade scones in the winter!” Last year, around 300 entries were received from as

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)/$9285 2) 6&27/$1' far afield as USA, Germany and Singapore. From traditional heritage varieties of jam like strawberry, raspberry and blackcurrant to exotic flavours like pina colada, chilli, carrot cake and chocolate, the World Jampionships has attracted entries from across the world. Each entry is given individual feedback from a panel of expert judges. This year Mackays are headline sponsor of the World Jampionships 2014. Based in the jam heartlands of Dundee in Scotland, this family company has been running since 1938 and still make jam using traditional copper pans. With varieties ranging from strawberry jam with champagne and rhubarb and ginger preserve to single farm heritage varieties, Mackays preserves are available nationwide. >gmkb^l Zk^ bgobm^] _khf ghp ngmbe ma^bk \ehlbg` ]Zm^ h_ *. :n`nlm Zg] \Zg [^

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Hopetoun’s Home-grown Honey Makes a Beeline for the Farm Shop It’s a little known fact that the impressive Hopetoun Estate near South Queensferry is home to more than just roe deer, rare Hebridean St Kilda Sheep and its Aberdeen Angus herd. It is also home to 16 groups of honeybees, which, in the peak season, can contain up to 12 millions bees - and they aren’t there on holiday. They are there to work. The honeybees, managed by Murray McGregor and his team at Denrosa, were brought to the Estate ten years ago to aid in the pollination of the arable crops, wild flowers and trees that adorn the land at Hopetoun. Mike Eagers, Head of Agriculture at Hopetoun, instructs the beekeeping team 30

where to place the bees based on the crop cycle. The bees can be placed in up to eight different locations on the Estate over the course of a year. These locations change each year dependant on the crop rotation. The bees are not only used to aid pollination on the Estate. The honey from the hives is collected up, put in jars, and given straight to the Hopetoun Farm Shop, which is less than half a mile away on the other side of the Estate. The Farm Shop opened in 2011 and has just been awarded its fourth consecutive five-star rating by from VisitScotland. Priced at £4.99, no two jars are the same, as each hive has its own ‘scout’ that

chooses where the pollen will be collected. Two hives can be a meter apart from each other and have completely different tasting honey. Also, as the honey is made using nectar from all over the Estate, those people with allergies in the area near Hopetoun might want to pick some up, as it is said eating local honey can help reduce the effects of hay fever. Mike Eagers, Head of Agriculture at Hopetoun Estate, says: “Not only are bees vital to the pollination of all our crops, especially oil seed rape and beans, but they are fascinating creatures in their own right. They have an amazing social hierarchy – the woman is in charge and

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the males to do all the work! Murray and I have a sit down each year to discuss where the bees are going, and every time I learn something new about the bees and their social hierarchy. They are nothing but beneficial. Definitely worth the £6 price tag for a queen, I’d say!“ Each hive has up to 50,000 bees in it during peak season and, to keep it in top condition, and to make sure the bees are kept under control and not swarming, the beekeepers check each hive every ten days. The bees will only swarm when the queen bee does not have enough space. When this is the case, the beekeeper simply adds more boxes for the queen to lay eggs.

Searching for Scotland’s best kept hidden larder secrets Foodie flagship event of the Autumn, ‘Eat Drink Discover Scotland’, has teamed up with celebrity chef Mark Greenaway to embark on a mission – to discover the secret ingredients that Scottish cooks just simply have to have in the pantry. The public are being invited to reveal their favourite Scottish ‘secret ingredients’ by detailing what they are and where they’re purchased. The criteria range from herbs to condiments, alcohol to meats and even vegetables, providing they are either grown or produced in Scotland. Applicants are being encouraged to be a unpredictable, creative and unusual as possible. Mark and the Eat Drink Discover team will draw up a shortlist of the best entrants who will be invited to join him in a ‘cook off’ at the event, where the winner will be chosen. The producer or retailer who supplied the winner with their ‘secret ingredient’ will be given a free exhibition stand at next year’s event. Eat Drink Discover Scotland, which is taking place at the Royal Highland

Centre between 12th and 14th September, will bring to life the rich diversity of Scotland’s brimming larder by featuring exhibitors from the length and breadth of the country. One for the foodies, it will be offering something for every palate, plate and price range and, with a regional focus, it will be providing opportunities for smaller rural food producers to share centre stage with more established brands. The weekend will also include demonstrations and master classes such as chocolate workshops, cocktail making, game butchery and craft bakery. Mark Greenaway said: “It’s all too easy to keep using the same ingredients for the same dishes, so this competition is all about discovering new ingredients and new ways of using them. I’ll be sharing my favourite products from the length and breadth of Scotland on my website’s blog, suggesting ways to make the most of them. But I want others to follow suit and share their favourites with me. This is what food and cooking should

be about and, with Scotland’s truly amazing larder, I’m sure I’ll find it extremely difficult to choose a winner."

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Mark Greenaway

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31

O U R FA R M SHOP From a business that started in an old cart shed with a couple of freezers and a calculator the accolade of UK Retailer and Farm Shop of the Year 2014 tops an extraordinary decade of growth for the Pollock family in Fife.

Originally set up in 2005 when the Pollock’s decided to sell their 21 day matured beef and fresh vegetables direct to the public, Ardross Farm Shop now provides everything you need to create the perfect ‘local’ meal. Over 50 varieties of vegetables and all their traditionally reared beef is now sold through the shop, where you can find everything from pumpkins, fennel and kohl rabi to cauliflower, carrots and salad veg. The farm now only grows veg for the shop planting just one bed

every few weeks, a massive change from the pressures of supplying supermarkets with potatoes, cabbages and broccoli. In their drive to produce as much as possible themselves the addition of a commercial kitchen adds value by producing an exceptionally popular range of steak pies, mince rounds, soups, stock, gravy, sausage rolls, jams, coulis and cakes with new items in development all the time. From an initial marketing exercise that saw a local

junior football club paid to deliver leaflets to local homes, the customer base expanded. It is not unknown for international visitors to make the shop their first stop from the airport before travelling to their holiday let. The shop has responded to customer requests by sourcing additional products, like icecream and eggs. Having no expertise in either of these, the Pollock’s turned to other farming families seeking to diversify. Nine years on as well as supporting other small businesses and meeting

customers increasingly wellinformed, wide-ranging demands, the shop aims to have everything needed to create a fantastic local meal, from smoked salmon, cheeses, pates, lamb, chicken, milk, yogurts, puddings and much more. It’s been a remarkable success story built on working hard to respond to customers and staying true to the principles that drove them to start the business. The Pollock’s are looking forward with high hopes to the future.

Ardross Farm Shop, Elie, Fife KY9 1EU Open 7 days a week. Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm and Sunday 9am – 4pm Find them on the main coast road (A917) between Elie & St.Monans ppp'Zk]khll_Zkf'\h'nd M3 )*,,, ,,*-)) >3 bg_h9Zk]khll_Zkf'\h'nd ?heehp ma^f hg _Z\^[hhd3 ammil3((ppp'_Z\^[hhd'\hf(:k]khll?ZkfLahi ?heehp ma^f hg Mpbmm^k3 9:k]khll?ZkfLahi hk 9:k]khll?ZkfO^` 32

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BEAUTIFUL TRACTORS Specially for all our tractor enthusiasts CASE, MODEL CC-3 USA , 1936

BRITISH WALLIS UK, c. 1925

Old Abe was the name of the Case eagle mascot, and he watched over many years of solid success with steam traction engines and heavy prairie tractors. By the 1930s Case was ready to try its hand at lighter, row crop tractors such as the CC-3, which led to a long line of popular cultivating tractors. Today the Case name endures as part of the worldwide Case New Holland farm equipment empire.

Two separate companies used the Case name, both based in Racine, Wisconsin. One, the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co., evolved into the name seen on tractors today; the other, the J.I. Case Plow Works, built the Wallis tractors, named for company president Henry Wallis. In 1919 Ruston & Hornsby were licensed to build the Wallis OK model in the UK, calling it the British Wallis.

Features The innovative CC-3 featured a four-cylinder motor capable of burning kerosene, and had three forward gears. The CC-3 row crop or tricycle model was accompanied by a standard-tread CC-4, but farmers could purchase a tractor with both front ends and change from standard to row crop. These were amongst the last Case tractors with the grey chassis and red wheels.

Features The British Wallis used a locally produced Ruston four-cylinder motor, burning petrol and kerosene. The tractor had two forward speeds. Wallis was known for its unit frame design incorporating a rolled U-shaped plate to form the main frame. This unit frame had easily removed access ports that allowed the owner to readily service the motor and transmission. The British Wallis had a modernistic design highlighted in a pleasant green hue with red wheels.

Uses The CC-3, with adjustable wheel widths and an assortment of mountable tillage equipment, was ideal for corn cultivation. The tricycle layout and vintage styling make it a sought-after collector’s item today. Related Models The CC-3 was succeeded by the RC and later the VC and VAC. The CC-4 was the standard tread version to the CC-3. Power & Size 27 hp; weight: 1860kg (4100lb) length: 348cm (137in) width: 122–213cm (48–84in, adjustable) height: 145cm (57in) Manufacturing & Distribution The CC-3 was built by the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co. in Racine, Wisconsin, from 1929 to 1939 and was very popular in the Midwest Corn Belt of North America. It also enjoyed sales in the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Uses The British Wallis was a fine general-purpose tractor capable of a wide range of field duties along with threshing. This model is now a very rare and desirable tractor for collectors. Related Models The British Wallis was discontinued but Massey-Harris, who bought J.I. Case Plow Works in 1928, continued the Wallis design until the Second World War with its Pacemaker, Challenger and Model 25. Power & Size 28 hp; weight: 1678kg (3700lb) length: 335cm (132in) width: 155cm (61in) height: 160cm (63in) Manufacturing & Distribution The British Wallis was built from 1919 until c.1928 in Lincoln. These tractors also appear in Australia and New Zealand.

Images from “Beautiful Tractors – Iconic Models” by Rick Mannen : [^Znmb_neer beenlmkZm^] k^\hk] h_ -) h_ ma^ phke] l fhlm fZ`gbÛ\^gm% \eZllb\ Z`kb\nemnkZe fZ\abg^l% ]Zmbg` _khf *2*0 mh *20/' Iahmh`kZiar [r <ebo^ Lmk^^m^k' In[ebla^] [r ?kZg\^l Ebg\heg Ebfbm^]' Available in paperback: £12.99. For further information : www.franceslincoln.com www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

33

RENEWABLEENERGY

VG Energy signs commercial partnership agreement with the world’s leading manufacturer of heating technology systems Leading renewable technology specialists, VG Energy is delighted to announce that it has further strengthened its biomass product portfolio after signing a new dealer agreement with the world’s leading manufacturer of heating technology systems, Viessmann. Under the terms of the agreement, VG Energy will supply, install and maintain Viessmann’s biomass boiler systems ranging in size from 100kW to 1.2MW to its growing customer base nationwide. The deal will mean VG will become the main Viessmann dealer in

Scotland and one of only a few Viessmann biomass boiler dealers throughout the UK. The Viessmann Group is one of the leading international manufacturers of heating, cooling and climate control technologies. Founded in 1917, the family business maintains a staff of approximately 11,400 employees and generates 2.1 billion Euro in annual group turnover. With 27 production divisions in 11 countries, subsidiaries and representations in 74 countries and 120 sales offices around the world, Viessmann is an internationally orientated

company and this deal represents a major coup for the Scottish based company. With over 70 biomass heating systems installed over a 12 month period, ranging in size from 75kW to 300kW, and with an additional 25 biomass installation projects planned to end of August 2014, the addition of Viessmann to an already impressive portfolio of class leading biomass boiler products from manufacturers such as Heizomat and ETA, has earned VG one of the highest regarded reputations in the industry for delivering high quality biomass solutions. VG Energy, Sales Director, Gordon Smith said: “The agreement we have signed with Viessmann, the worldleading company in heating technology systems, is great news for our growing biomass business and for our customers as we are able to offer a range of biomass products, regarded within the industry as the ‘Rolls Royce’ of boilers. Our business cultures are very similar, both being family run businesses, with a focus on high quality products supported by market leading technical and customer service.” Jonathan Grist, Commercial Manager of Viessmann UK, said: “For some time we have

been looking for a Scottish based partner that not only has a strong track record in successfully delivering multiple renewables and biomass heating projects, but also has the correct infrastructure and resources and level of support. We are confident we have found that company in VG Energy. VG Energy’s biomass division is rapidly growing and we look forward to developing the relationship and increasing the number of Viessmann biomass boiler installations in the UK. We also have a shared view of the market opportunity within Scotland and across the UK.” Viessmann prides itself on its comprehensive range of individual solutions for efficient systems. It is also a persistent champion of sustainability, running its highly successful 'Efficiency Plus' project at its manufacturing facilities in Allendorf, Germany, to demonstrate how any business or household can actively promote climate protection and reduce their energy bills. The project has already saved 66 percent of fossil energy use and cut CO2 emissions by 80 percent. Viessmann's biomass boiler product portfolio includes the Pyrotec 390 to 1250kW range and the Pyrot 100 to 540kW range.

Ardo farmer hosts green energy event Aberdeenshire farmer Roger Glennie who has installed an energy-saving wind turbine on his land hosted an open day for the benefit of other farmers and land owners across Scotland who wanted to know more 34

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about possible cost savings from wind generated electricity. The free event at Hill Head of Ardo in Aberdeenshire took place in May and was one of just five open days to showcase the latest technology organised

RENEWABLEENERGY on farms across Britain by specialist farm-scale wind turbine installers and suppliers Earthmill. “People often complain about our weather, but Aberdeenshire has strong consistent winds that make it ideal for generating energy from wind,” said Steve Milner, managing director of Earthmill. “We have had a lot of requests from farmers in Aberdeenshire wanting to see one of our new turbines in action and this open day allows famers to talk to each other and share their views and experiences. It is also a great opportunity for farmers to talk to people about the process and likely savings and chat to our team of experts about their farm’s wind energy needs.” Bookings for the open day can be made by calling

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RENEWABLEENERGY Earthmill on 01937 581011 when specific directions to the event will be given. Mr Milner added: “The financial benefits of wind turbines for farms are becoming

more widely known. Farmers and landowners can effectively future-proof their electricity costs by becoming a green energy generator, crucial when energy bills are rising, and an

increasing number of farmers are turning to turbines as an additional source of much needed farm revenue.” In October 2013, Earthmill installed the UK’s

most advanced wind turbine on a dairy farm at Liskeard in Cornwall which is now generating the equivalent electricity used by almost 150 homes.

New investment will boost green energy Scottish Enterprise has announced £3.5 million of new investment in Scotland’s growing renewable energy sector, Energy Minister Fergus Ewing announced recently. Four projects are being supported through the enterprise agency’s Renewable Energy Investment Fund (REIF). • Islay Energy Community Benefit Society will receive a £735k loan to install a community owned 330Kw turbine on the island, with the potential to power the equivalent of 300 homes. • Edinburgh-based Nova Innovation has secured a £700k loan from REIF to support the first phase of the 0.5MW Shetland Tidal Array, believed to be the first deployment of a tidal energy array anywhere in the world. Scottish Enterprise is backing the project with a £1.2 million R&D grant that will lever in an additional £1.85 million

of private sector investment. • Fintry Development Trust, a body dedicated to making the village in Stirlingshire a zero-carbon, zerowaste community, is being supported with a £615k loan. It will help refinance a commercial agreement that gives the trust an income stream from the nearby Earlsburn Wind Farm. This income will be invested in local renewable projects. • Inverness company AWS Ocean Energy has received a loan of £250k to support further development and testing of its AWS-III, a wave energy device which offers the prospect of wave energy on a farm scale. AWS also received support through the first round of WATERS funding. In Aberdeen, attending the All-Energy Conference, Mr Ewing said: “This latest round of Scottish Enterprise funding

underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to Scotland’s growing renewables sector. “Scotland is a world leader in deploying renewables technology. We have tremendous green energy potential and vast natural resources, about a quarter of Europe's wind and tidal energy and 10% of its wave power. “Clean, green energy is creating opportunities for communities across Scotland and delivering jobs and investment.” Welcoming the investment, head of REIF Andrew Smith said: “These are really ambitious and exciting projects, which clearly demonstrate the wide range of initiatives that REIF was set up to support. They also show how by working with other funders we can leverage significant investment from the private sector. “Scotland is fast gaining a global reputation for being

at the forefront of developing and testing new technologies in the development of wind, wave and tidal energy, and all of these projects will make a real contribution to the ongoing development of the sector.” Calum Davidson, Director of Energy and Low Carbon at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: "The investment in each of these projects is particularly welcome given their pioneering nature and potential impact on economic and social development in the Highlands and Islands. “Not only will they contribute to further development of wave, tidal and community owned renewable energy, but their innovative nature ensures that yet again Scotland remains firmly in the renewable energy spotlight. “This is further demonstrated this week at All-Energy, where the largest regional presence is held by the Highlands and Islands."

New Ellon farm turbine to produce enough power for 30 homes A brand new state of the art wind turbine has been commissioned on a North East Farm that will produce enough power for over 30 local homes. Farmer Roger Glennie and partner Jean Arnott have installed one of the UK’s most advanced small scale turbines on their 150 acre farm at Hillhead of Ardo, Methlick in Aberdeenshire. 36

“We wanted to make sure it would be the right turbine for our farm for the surrounding area. It was an all important decision and one that we were not going to rush into, as there has been so much hype,” says Roger. After researching recent advances in technology they sought the advice of leading farm wind turbine supplier Earthmill and on 31 March this year an

Endurance E3120 50Kw was installed and commissioned on a very exposed location in Aberdeenshire, with strong gusts of wind regularly blowing in from the North Sea. “It’s doing what it is supposed to do and in the first month the units generated totalled 12000 Kwh. We certainly anticipate reducing our quarterly electricity bill by half to around £750 and we

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will be converting from oil to electric wherever it is possible.” declares Roger. Hillhead of Ardo, a sheep and arable farm with an agricultural contracting business, is one of the latest farms in the area to install a turbine. “This is an agricultural area and has the highest density of farm turbines in the country, which has prompted the name ‘turbine alley’,” says Jean.

RENEWABLEENERGY

More farmers take up efficiency challenge By Rebecca Audsley, SAC Consulting.

Measures to make the best use of fuel, feed and fertiliser can not only benefit the farm bottom line, but could also have an impact on the farm carbon footprint – that was one of the findings from the first round of volunteer focus farms under the Scottish Government funded Farming for a Better Climate initiative. Your farm may already be reasonably technically efficient, but are there further tweaks you could make to improve efficiency, save money and reduce the farm carbon footprint, all with no loss of production? Five new volunteer climate change focus farms have been announced by Richard Lochhead MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment. The new farmers have taken up the challenge of reducing their farm carbon footprint whilst further improving business efficiency. The new farms include a 180 cow dairy herd in Ayrshire, a mixed farm with 110 suckler cows in Aberdeenshire and an ‘efficiency network’ of three beef and sheep farms working as a group as part of the initiative in the Highlands. Additional farms are still to be announced, including two arable units and a second dairy farm. Over the course of the next three years, SAC Consulting 38

will be working closely with the volunteer farmers and their farm discussion groups to try out a range of practical ways to improve the efficiency of their farming operation and reduce the farm carbon footprint, but crucially also working to improve farm profitability. There will be a program of meetings organised to allow other farmers to have their say and to benefit from the ideas demonstrated on the focus farms. The first round of meetings at the farms will begin later in the year. Results from the initial round of climate change focus farms from 2010 to 2013 demonstrated an average saving of £24,000 and a reduction in the farm carbon footprint of 10% with no loss of production. We will be following the progress of the new farms over the next three years. For more information on the new volunteer climate change focus farmers, to get involved with the discussion groups, see what other farmers have done or to identify which low carbon measures could be worth considering for your farm see www.farmingforabetterclimate. org. You can also subscribe to the newsletter by emailing rebecca. audsley@sac.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @SACfarm4climate. ?Zkfbg` _hk Z ;^mm^k <ebfZm^ bl _ng]^] [r ma^ L\hmmbla @ho^kgf^gm Zl iZkm h_ bml <ebfZm^ <aZg`^ :]oblhkr :\mbobmr'

VG Energy Launches Innovative FREE Biomass Boiler Scheme Leading renewable energy solutions provider, VG Energy has launched an innovative biomass scheme to provide businesses with fully funded biomass boiler installations. The new scheme has been designed to help businesses significantly reduce their energy costs and improve their green credentials, with zero cost and risk to them. Under VG’s new scheme, businesses will receive a free commercial biomass boiler, including free installation, free maintenance and servicing for a period of 20 years. The incentive is especially beneficial for businesses who have high daily heating demands, are looking to save on their energy costs but do not want to spend the capital costs required or are finding it difficult to secure the required funding. Under the scheme, VG Energy will manage each stage of the project, from start to finish · Will perform a technical site survey to determine the best system to suit the business · Will work with businesses to finalise a suitable system design that meets the customers specific requirements · Will enter into a Lease agreement with the customer where VG will pay for the legal costs · Will supply and install a high quality commercial grade biomass system on the customers property · Will provide full staff training Staff and provide Operation Manuals · Will be responsible for repairs and will pay the servicing costs of the system VG’s Commercial Director, Nick Bowmar said: “Heating represents the largest part of UK business energy bills, on average it equates to 55% of an organisations overall annual energy cost. Switching to a biomass system can therefore

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result in significant savings on heating, ranging from an impressive 30-70%, where properties are on oil or lpg. Customers are looking for alternative ways to cut heating bills. We are therefore delighted to introduce this new scheme and to provide a no cost, no risk incentive for businesses to switch to a cheaper wood fuel source. There is not catch. To allow us to provide a free Biomass Boiler, we claim the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) that is earned from the system to cover the cost of the equipment, the installation, and the costs of the servicing and maintenance for 20 years. The RHI was created to encourage businesses to switch to Biomass as a renewable, sustainable heating source, providing quarterly payments for 20 years for commercial applications.” VG’s biomass division specialise in the design, supply, installation and servicing of biomass boiler systems. With over 550 renewable technology products successfully completed since 2008, the company has earned one of the highest regarded reputations in the industry. VG Biomass currently delivers renewable energy projects to organisations in both the public and private sector spanning multiple industries and manages every stage of a biomass boiler project, from start to finish in-house. The company works in partnership with the world’s leading biomass boiler manufacturers, such as Heizomat, Viessmann and ETA boilers and offers customers a wide choice of boiler size options and prices. VG Energy has offices in Yorkshire, Ayrshire, Aberdeenshire ?hk fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg hg O@ l ?k^^ ;bhfZll ;hbe^k l\a^f^ \Zee )*./, 1+222) hk ^fZbe _k^^[hbe^k9o`^g^k`r' \h'nd

n 016*'4 1( 174 5'%6+105 9*'4' 9' ':2.14' 6*' 8'4; .#6'56 #&8#0%'5 +0 (#4/+0) 4'.#6'& .'#40+0) #0& 6'%*01.1);T .. 0'95 (14 6*+5 5'%6+10 5*17.& $' '/#+.'& 61 174 757#. #&&4'55T

Accolade for young scientist

A young scientist whose research focusses on pathogens in the environment has been awarded the prestigious Peter Massalski Prize for meritorious research. Dr Fiona Brennan, research scientist with the Environmental and Biochemical Sciences group at the James Hutton Institute in Aberdeen, will be presented with the prize at today’s (22 May) annual general meeting of the Scottish Society for Crop Research (SSCR) in Dundee. The Prize Awarding Committee, consisting of Professors Iain Gordon, Chief Executive of the James Hutton Institute, John Hillman, a past Director of the former Scottish Crop Research Institute and Dr Bill Macfarlane Smith, Honorary Secretary of SSCR, was impressed by the number of excellent applications from different areas of research within the Institute. Dr Brennan’s main research interests include fate and transport of microbial enteropathogens in the environment, microbial quality of water, virulence and cold-temperature adaptation of environmentally persistent E. coli, ecophysiology of

enteropathogens in soil, ecology of functional microbial communities in soil and engineered systems, microbial biochemical processes and community dynamics in soils and animal slurries, and nutrient cycling in agricultural systems. On winning the Prize, 31-year-old Dr Brennan said: “I'm extremely honoured to have been awarded the Peter Massalski Prize. I'd like to thank the great group of scientists I have the pleasure to work with, and the Institute for its continued support and encouragement in advancing my research programme. “I've been very fortunate to have had the benefit of a number of excellent mentors in my career to date and I'd like to thank them for their efforts.” Professor Iain Gordon commented: “The Institute was extremely fortunate in having someone as bright and talented as Peter Massalski undertaking research. This attribute is no less present in today’s young scientists who work at the Institute. This was reflected in the very high calibre of applications for this Prize. Fiona Brennan is one

of our rising stars and we look forward to her further achievements in the future.” Dr Bill Macfarlane Smith said: “The Society lists amongst its aims and objectives, the encouragement of research not likely to be funded by other organisations, and the ‘pumppriming’ of research which will generate much greater funding in the future. Fiona Brennan’s research in soil and environmental microbiology, especially E. coli, fits well into both categories. Her work is of enormous interest and relevance to our grower, processor and end-user

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members. The Society wishes her every future success.” The Peter Massalski Prize is awarded through the generosity of Professor and the late Mrs T B Massalski, in memory of their son, Dr Peter R Massalski, who was a member of staff at the former Scottish Crop Research Institute at the time of his death. The prize is awarded biennially to the person under 36 years old, who is considered to have done the most meritorious research whilst working at the James Hutton Institute, and takes the form of a special certificate accompanied by a monetary award.

39

TOPIC Conservation…a life choice and a responsibility By Fiona Sloan Pa^g li^Zdbg` h_ \hgl^koZmbhg% p^ Zk^ ghkfZeer k^_^kkbg` mh ma^ \hgl^koZmbhg h_ Zg ZgbfZe% ieZgm hk o^`^mZ[e^ li^\b^l% pab\a aZl [^\hf^ ^g]Zg`^k^] Zg] k^jnbk^l iZkmb\neZk Zmm^gmbhg mh ^glnk^ bml _nmnk^' Bg ma^ \Zl^ h_ ma^ Ble^ h_ NeoZ% \hgl^koZmbhg ghm hger k^_^kl mh ma^ kZk^ ieZgm Zg] pbe]eb_^ li^\b^l pab\a ^qblm ma^k^ [nm mh ma^ \hgl^koZmbhg h_ Zg ^gmbk^ bleZg] Zg] ma^ _nmnk^ lnlmZbgZ[bebmr h_ Z ihineZmbhg'

The island has been associated with the MacQuarie Clan from as far back as the 8th and under clan ownership, there was a population of around 800 in 16 villages, making their living from exporting kelp and potatoes. Following the purchase of the Island in 1835, by Francis William Clark and his heartless Clearance of the Island, the potato famine and collapse of the kelp market, the population dropped dramatically in a few years to around 150 and continued to drop to the present population of 16. The Clark family owned the Island well into the 20th century, until it was bought by Lady Congleton, whose daughter Jean subsequently inherited it and with her husband Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Henry Howard, started the conservation and revitalisation of the Island, which continues to this day with the current Howard family, James and Tessa and their daughters, Kiloran, Olivia and Chloe and son William. The Family’s vision is to maintain the Isle of Ulva as a forward thinking island estate, ensuring the stability of the Island and its population for future generations, both nationally and internationally, by protecting the biodiversity and scenic amenity of the Island. “We would love our family to be able to live and work here” says Tessa, “but it is just not currently viable so we 40 28

are working towards making the island sustainable enough to support not only them but other families who would wish to come and make their future here.” The privately run Ulva Ferry, which takes passengers on the short crossing from The Isle of Mull has been running since the 1940’s and is in high demand by tourists to the Island. In the 1950’s the Howard Family, built the Ulva ferry piers, creating the opportunity for commercial business, which currently includes five creel

boats, two large tourist boats and a specialist wildlife outfit looking at the local wildlife. The creel boats provide the shell fish for The Boathouse Café, which thrives on its reputation for outstanding seafood such as local Oysters and Squat Lobster and whose menu based around locally produced ingredients. While the ferry has been the key to the Island’s conservation of its tourist market, its proximity to livestock markets which are two ferries and a two hour road journey away, has made it nearly impossible to maintain

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a commercial population of sheep and cattle on the Island. With overhead costs like fuel and a limited amount of suitable grazing, to carry them all winter without housing, making a living from agriculture alone has become impossible. Any livestock going to or from the Island have to board a homemade barge to enable them to sail to Mull and start their long journey from Mull to Oban and then by road to Stirling. Feed is transported onto the Island in the same way and is delivered by the ton, once a

TOPIC

month where it is unloaded by hand and moved to the farm by quad bike, which is the only vehicle on Ulva. The family still however manage to maintain a herd of Galloway Cattle and a flock of around 30 Hebridean sheep in their efforts to support native breeds. As one of the oldest inhabited Islands in Scotland and with such biodiversity and rare species, it makes it an ideal place for students to take part in archaeological and ecological research, including Post Graduate, PhD projects and a variety of other educational opportunities. Tessa Howard, who is involved in several conservation projects both on and off the island is keen to encourage people to come and stay on the Island to study. “We are happy to provide accommodation and sustenance for any students who come, in exchange for help in various projects and farming activities around the Island.” explains Tessa,” This not only allows help with the much sought after research but it also allows people to experience Island life, which they will hopefully embrace and help the family to maintain the island economy, which is the most important thing.” More recently, Tessa’s husband James has taken advantage of conservation grants available to plant 500, 000 native trees, which have helped enormously, not only with the income to the estate but also for the future commercial potential which these will bring. While Ulva’s history has gone from an incredible 800 inhabitants in 16 villages, the ruins of which can been seen dotted around the Island, to currently supporting six livelihoods, it’s future is sustained by the dedication of the Howard Family through various diverse activities to support and hopefully increase this thriving, hard-working community while conserving one of the oldest settlements in Scotland. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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TELEHANDLERS Long reach & versatility Telehandlers provide the perfect solution

Cat C Series telehandlers

Cat C Series telehandlers The new C Series telehandlers from Caterpillar have new engines, which meet Stage IIIB (Tier 4 Interim) emission standards and a new powershift transmission that gives the speed and range to take any job as well as giving a 40 km/h road speed. Ranging in reach from 5.6m to 7.3m the five C Series units available have high ground clearance to maximize manoeuvrability, allowing for the work to be carried out on rough ground with up to 482.6 mm of ground clearance delivered. The proven hydraulic system is easy to use, fast but controllable, and designed to save fuel. These load-sensing hydraulics, fast boom cycle times and single lever joystick controls all help reduce the time it takes to finish the job, making the C Series a perfect choice for the agriculture market.

Claas Scorpion

42 28

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Available with a large number of attachments, finance from Cat Finance and full service and maintenance contracts from Finning, the C Series offers farmers an all round high performance unit. ?hk _nkma^k bg_hkfZmbhg oblbm ppp'Ûggbg`'\h'nd Higher capacity Claas Scorpions Since it was first launched in 2005, the success of the CLAAS SCORPION telescopic handler is evident in the fact that sales have grown sevenfold and it has become the market leader in Germany. To meet the demands of operators who are expecting more from their telescopic handler, both in lift capacity but also overall performance, CLAAS has introduced a new range of six SCORPION telescopic handlers. The new SCORPION range is split between two

TELEHANDLERS frame sizes, large and small, with three models in each. All models are built around a new chassis design which enables them to lift heavier loads. The frame features a very low pivot point for the telescopic arm, which means that when fully lowered, the top of the arm is flush with the body, so providing excellent stability and unobstructed visibility. The greater lift capacity means that from a previous maximum lift capacity of 4.4 tonnes, the two new top of the range models, the SCORPION 9055 and 7055, can now lift 5.5 tonnes to a maximum lift height of 8.8m or 7.0m respectively. The new arm geometry means that all models now benefit from a very high breakaway force of 72kN and a residual lift capacity of 2.0 tonnes. To reduce shock loading and bounce, all the lift, tilt and telescopic rams have end-oftravel damping and the arm incorporates an automatic load stabilisation system that is engaged/disengaged at road speeds above/below 7.0 kph. Under the bonnet, the SCORPION is powered by a new generation Deutz Tier 4i compliant engine. On the largest 9055 and 7055 models, a 4.1 litre engine develops 156hp and is fitted with a DPF (diesel particulate filter) and DOC (diesel oxidation catalyst). The other four models are powered by a 122hp 3.6 litre engine with DOC only. Clean air for the engine cooling is drawn in through the top of the bonnet,

channelled past the engine and vented out through the rear of the bonnet, along with the exhaust gasses. The new SCORPION also retains the well proven and highly efficient VARIPOWER transmission. The Dieci Range Expands Dieci have recently launched a number of new models for 2014 with many improvements across the comprehensive agricultural range. Dieci offer a range of machines to encompass construction and industry from 2.5t to 21t, and lift capacities from just under 6metres to 25metres. Mini Agri 25.6 compact Telehandlers is now fitted with a new composite door, new air intake system and a lower bonnet profile. Agrifarmer range now have fuel efficient Kubota DPF engines across the range, power brakes on both axles, new intuitive dash with built in load indicator and diagnostic information, best in class head rotation for bucket and grab work, new touch sensitive joystick with Forward and reverse on the joystick together with the shuttle on the left of the steering wheel. An inching pedal for controlled movement is fitted as standard. 32.6 is the new model in the range offering a highly manoeuvrable telehandler with a very useable lift capacity. Engine radiator is fitted to the rear away from dust and debris with reversing fan for ease of cleaning. Agriplus range now features two new Iveco engine offerings 140hp and

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TELEHANDLERS Dieci Agri Farmer

150hp fitted with adblue. Two transmissions are offered, a new 6 speed powershift and a new vario transmission developed between dieci, sauer danfoss and bosch. This all new transmission offers 0 to 40kph in one range. The transmission benefits from two motors that will deliver maximum power under high torque requirements. The additional motor is only in operation when required, giving a 20% fuel saving. ?hk fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg oblbm ppp']b^\b&m^e^aZg]e^kl' \h'nd Upgrades make JCB Loadalls the most productive and efficient ever Regenerative hydraulics, hydraulic cylinder stroke damping and a new Auto Smooth Ride Suspension engagement system are among a package of added-value features being 44 28

introduced across all Agri variants of the Loadall 53170, 536-60, 536-70, 541-70 and 535-95.

The improvements also include an innovative auto bucket control function that will automatically

JCB Loadall Telehandler

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shake the bucket or fork to discharge sticky materials or progressively discharge forage on to a clamp or grain into a feeder. The amount of shake induced is regulated by proportional movement of the control joystick. Fuel economy and productivity gains will come from the revised boom hydraulics. With oil regenerated from one end of the lift rams to the other, the boom lowers faster, resulting in quicker cycle times without having to resort to a larger pump. With the standard 140-litre/min piston pumps fitted to these Loadall models, lowering time is now as quick with the engine on tick-over as it was at high revs. The net result is faster cycle times and fuel savings of more than 4% and a19% improvement

TELEHANDLERS Kramer AE Everall 2506

in productivity when rehandling. Hydraulic cylinder endstroke damping, on boom retract and lift cylinders, is being used to further refine the operator's experience and minimise load spillage. Added refinement comes with a new version of JCB's Smooth Ride Suspension system that automatically engages when the machine is moving and when the additional 'auto' mode is selected, so it is no longer necessary to lower the boom when stationary to engage the system. The operator can switch between modes on the move, selecting ‘on’ for full-time Smooth Ride Suspension when working at low speeds, ‘off’ to provide precise boom positioning control for pallet work and when attaching an implement, or the new ‘auto’ mode which automatically engages at 4kph. A button to release pressure 46 28

from the auxiliary hydraulic service is now provided in the cab for added convenience, and buyers can choose to add a powerful LED lighting package for increased illumination around the machine. A rear

hitch light is also an option and to meet European demand, JCB is introducing a range of Rockinger hitches. Kramer telehandlers Kramer’s 1245 and 2506

Manitou MLT960 handler

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compact telehandlers exceed all expectations and are the perfect machines for farm applications where space is at a premium thanks to their combination of superb driver visibility, specification and performance. The 1245 measures just 2.92 m in length and 1.56 m in width and, despite these ultra-compact dimensions, offers an impressive ability to lift 1200 kg to a maximum height of 4.30 m. The model 2506 is 1.96m wide and under 2m high and is powered by a Deutz turbocharged diesel engine driving all four wheels via a power-sensing hydrostatic transmission. In addition, like all Kramer machines, it is equipped with 4-wheel steering for outstanding manoeuvrability. The telehandlers also feature Kramer’s unique Smart Handling System

TELEHANDLERS

hydraulic flow rate of 180 litres per minute combined with the JSM control lever which enables the operator to achieve simultaneous and responsive movements for greater efficiency and reduction in driver fatigue enhancing productivity. The MLT960 is the result of the expertise derived from many years of providing efficient handling solutions offering robustness, strength and durability in an all terrain machine for bulk handling duties.

Merlo Turbofarmer II

Agricultural Merchants 4HPU KLHSLYZ MVY 4(50;6< ;LSLOHUKSLYZ

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48 28

which provides safe and smooth boom movements with guaranteed protection for both driver and machine. Manitou’s new MLT 960 handler The Manitou group is broadening its range of material handling solutions with a high-capacity telescopic forklift, the MLT960. With a working height of 9 metres, the MLT 960 has an impressive load capacity of 6 tonnes. Fitted with a John Deere Stage IIIB/Interim IV engine with power of 141 hp, the MLT 960 is an ideal solution for a wide range of applications requiring repetitive and intensive cycles. Heavy duty capability is facilitated by the MLT960 with the aid of the LSU (Load Sensing Ultra) hydraulic system for smooth and precise handling operations at a

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The new Merlo Turbofarmers In terms of versatility, the new range offers truly stateof-the-art-technology. For example, the mechanical PTO (available on all models in the new Turbofarmer series) allows the machine to be used for work which was previously excluded by telehandlers. Thanks to the mechanical power take-off, the new Turbofarmers will be able to be used with more attachments and implements, making it possible to work on farms with a single machine, with significant savings in time and operating costs. Another technology that will give Merlo more exceptional versatility is the MCVTronic. For those who need to tow a trailer or perform heavy tasks with a telehandler, the new top of the range Turbofarmer models will be equipped with the unique Merlo MCVTronic continuously variable transmission. The 2-speed hydrostatic transmission allows acceleration from 0 to 40 km/h with no gear changes

TELEHANDLERS

or drop in torque. The new system makes it possible to obtain a 12% increase in torque at low speed. This allows excellent performance in ascent, climbing, towing and for building silage clamps. The new series will also offer all the technology currently present on the various T urbofarmer models, such as the cab suspension, side shift, frame levelling and the standard M CDC safety system. The new Turbofarmer Medium Duty range consists of 20 models with capacity's of 3800 or 4200 kg and operating heights of 7 or 10 metres. The technological applications are available on the entire range and

New Holland LM735

: $ *HGGHV /WG 0DLQ 'HDOHUV IRU

: $ *HGGHV /WG 5LYHU 6W :LFN &DLWKQHVV 7HO 8QLW 2UPOLH ,QG (VW 7KXUVR 7HO &URIWEDQN *DUDJH 9LFWRULD 5RDG %URUD 7HO 50 28

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TELEHANDLERS were developed to respect the Merlo mission in terms of safety, efficiency, comfort and productivity. The following solutions will be applied first on the Turbofarmer models and then on all new products launched in the market. New Holland’s new six-nine metre new generation LM telehandler New Holland has completely redesigned the heavy duty six to nine metre LM range of telehandlers, which now delivers substantially improved performance together with premium operator comfort. The five model range features the

A Schäffer in action

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TELEHANDLERS LM 6.32, LM 6.35 Elite, LM 7.35, LM 7.42 Elite and LM 9.35 models, can lift up to 4,200kg and has a maximum lift height of 9.1 metres. The range benefits from in-house design and construction, and is set to offer the world’s medium and large scale livestock farmers, large arable operations and contractors, high performance material handling capabilities. The new range replaces the existing LM5040, LM5060 and LM5080 models. In order to highlight this, the LM range benefits from New Holland’s evolution in product numbering. The first digit indicates the maximum lift height in metres, and the

second two numbers denote the maximum lift capacity in hundreds of kilos. “The new LM range is the fruit of extensive customer consultation and the LM has been redesigned from the ground up.” Stated Luca Mainardi, Head of Tractor, Telehandler and Precision Farming Product Management. “We have combined impressive output in terms of lift capacities and power with a best-in-class operator experience and classleading visibility. Furthermore, machine flexibility has been engineered by design as both standard and highperformance Elite versions are available on 6m and 7m models.”

The entire LM range has been equipped with New Holland’s renowned NEF engine, which features ECOBlue™ SCR solution for Tier 4A compliance, that delivers outstanding performance and exceptional fuel economy when compared to current models. Standard LM machines develop up to 121 maximum horsepower, which rises to 143 on Elite models. This prodigious output enables maximum lift heights of 6.1 metres on LM6.32, 7 metres on LM7.35 and 9.1 metres on LM9.35 models to be reached easily. Lifting performance is maintained thanks to the heavy-duty boom

construction. Manufactured using high tensile steel, the large pins and pads further enhance operating durability. The range-topping LM9.35 has been conceived with modern straw-focused operations in mind, which need to stack bales in the tallest modern sheds with inch-perfect accuracy. The LM’s impressive cycle times have been improved thanks to the upgraded hydraulic capacity. Standard models deliver 120 litres per minute with the Elite variants’ output reaching 140 litres/minute. This maintains productivity even when the heaviest loads are transported to full height and

9(4:(@ 1(*2:65 3;+ Main dealers for Merlo Telehandlers

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REEKIE GROUP

Merlo Telehandlers

available for demonstration now... For more information contact your local branch Stirling 01786 477530

Cupar 01334 652445

or visit our website

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TELEHANDLERS

significantly speeds up grain handing cycle times.

rigid frame telescopic machine. The new Sch채ffer has an operating weight of 11 tonnes ?hk fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg with a tipping load capacity hg G^p AheeZg] oblbm ppp' of 4.7 tonnes. The maximum g^paheeZg]'\hf lifting height of the 9660 T is a substantial 6.10 metre. New Sch채ffer 9660T With this machine, Schaffer Telescopic Loader now closes the only remaining The 9660 T is the latest gap in their telescopic loader machine in the highly successful product range. The robust pivot steer telescopic loader single-stage telescopic arm range from Sch채ffer to be with maintenance free Ferromade available in the next few Form sliders will cope with the months. It has been specially toughest of conditions. developed for the requirements A fuel efficient 4-cylinder of large scale farms and 157 hp (115 kW) Deutz combines the good all round common rail turbo diesel view and traction force of a engine was chosen to power standard wheel loader with the the machine and with a lifting height and reach of a traction force of about 9

Tonnes the hydrostatic drive will deliver sufficient power even for the most demanding tasks. The components of the drive train are perfectly matched for optimum power transmission. The current maximum driving speed is 28 kph with an option of 35 /40 kph proposed later this year. The machine comes standard with 500/70-24AS agricultural tyres which give increased ground clearance, reduced damage during fieldwork and less road noise. Other tyre options are also available. All hydraulic control functions are housed in the conveniently placed newly

introduced joystick which allows the driver's left hand to remain safely on the steering wheel for complete control of the machine. This new joystick also features a roller switch for boom extension thereby simplifying the operation. The steering column is adjustable in height and angle and the large front screen which extends into the roof, gives a perfect all round view. Even inexperienced drivers can work safely and efficiently enabling high levels of productivity to be achieved.

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DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) CAT DM Forklifts www.dmforklifts.co.uk Stonehaven : 01569 760210 MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282 CLAAS W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 DIECI JMS Equipment www.jmsequipment.co.uk Turriff : 01888 563188 Marrs of Methlick www.marrsofmethlick.com

Ellon : 01651 806910 R. Henderson www.mechanicalandweldingservices co.uk Watten : 01955 621255

MERLO Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323

MANITOU J&W Tait Ltd www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall, Orkney : 01856 873003

Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

Ness Plant www.nessplant.co.uk Brechin : 01356 626113 Kinross : 01577 862543

Ramsey & Jackson www.ramjack.co.uk Mauchline : 01290 550329

W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220

Elgin : 01343 541121 Maud : 01771 613246 Turriff : 01888 563561

NEW HOLLAND Ravenhill www.ravenhill.co.uk Aberdeen : 01224 772577 Dingwall : 01349 863555 Elgin : 01343 541121 Maud : 01771 613246 Turriff : 01888 563561

Ravenhill www.ravenhill.co.uk Aberdeen : 01224 772577 Dingwall : 01349 863555

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53

LIVESTOCK

Time to nominate for the Scotch Beef Farm of the Year 2014/15

The Scotch Beef Farm of the Year award is now entering its third year and the search is on for beef producers who are showcasing and developing best practice as well as playing an exemplary role in Scottish beef farming. The overall 2014/15 winner of the competition, run by AgriScot and Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), will receive a fabulous cash prize and the now well-established title of Scotch Beef Farm of the Year. Applications are also sought from others working in the industry who can nominate a farm, or farms, they feel merits the award. Last year’s winners were Alistair Foubister and his wife

Anne, from Netherton Farm, Holm, Orkney. Netherton is a 340 acre farm which runs 120 suckler cows which are mainly Aberdeen Angus cross. The Foubisters have been steadily increasing the number of cattle they sell each year, from 79 in 2009 to 106 in 2012, and prior to their win in 2013, the Foubisters invested in new cattle housing in order to improve farm efficiency. Once again, entries are being sought from farmers who are able to showcase excellence as well as playing an important part in building confidence in the future for all those working in the Scottish red meat industry. AgriScot and QMS work

closely together to deliver the award which will see the winner receiving a £500 cheque plus a £250 voucher to celebrate their accolade at a Scotch Beef Club restaurant – the club run by QMS which has around 300 members committed to serving top quality Scotch Beef. The award will be presented at AgriScot at Ingliston on Wednesday 19th November. AgriScot 2013 attracted more than 11000 attendees, made up of individuals and business from with agriculture and associated professions. Mh k^`blm^k rhnk bgm^k^lm Zg] k^\^bo^ _nkma^k bg_hkfZmbhg Zg] Zg Ziieb\Zmbhg _hkf ie^Zl^ ^fZbe bg_h9jfl\hmeZg]'\h'nd

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Earlier Calving on Cards at Forth Monitor Farm Suckler herd management was one of the main discussion topics at the recent Forth monitor farm meeting, hosted by the McEwen family of Arnprior Farm, a few miles west of Stirling. The 815 acre mixed livestock/arable unit, one of the network of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) monitor farms throughout Scotland, is farmed by Duncan McEwen and his son, also Duncan. The cattle enterprise is based on a suckler herd of approximately 60 breeding females and, to date, the aim is to finish all progeny other than retained females. The 26 bull calves born in 2013 were kept entire, the first time the McEwens had opted to bull beef the male progeny from their herd. Between 19th February and their most recent weighing on 7th May, these young bulls, on an ad-lib ration, were gaining 1.48 kgs per day. The McEwens have been retaining home-bred replacement heifers, with mixed results. Of the group of 2012born heifers, bulled to calve 54

this spring at two years old, just 40% had scanned in calf. However a group of in-calf heifers purchased in-calf, bulled to calve in March at three years old, had calved 100% and trouble free. “This certainly seems the more efficient route to go for herd replacements,” commented Duncan McEwen junior. “These heifers came from

a trusted, high health status source, and with them calving at three, they won’t need the extra feed and attention our home-bred, two year old calved heifers require.” The McEwens’ main herd started calving on 21st May, and is scheduled to finish by 3rd August. “We’re keen to bring the calving forward to March/April

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eventually,” explained Duncan McEwen junior. “Not only would that give us older and heavier calves at winter housing, but we would also make better use of our peak grass growth in May - growing calves at foot would get the benefit of the grass when it’s at its best, through their mother’s milk. Also we would be bulling the cows before the late summer drop in grass quality.”

LIVESTOCK

New cattle crush from Northern Engineering Dungannon-based company Northern Engineering Limited have designed and manufacture a new hydraulic roll over cattle crush which they call the “Cow Tipper” that is specifically designed with the both the cow and the operator in mind. Unlike conventional upright crushes where the operator has to lift each foot individually causing a lot of stress to the animal and the user this crush allows the operator to be able to turn a cow or bull over on its side so that all four feet are visible at the same time for inspection and treatment. The crush is fitted with a hydraulic extendable rump rail that guides even the most stubborn animal into the crush and vastly reduces the amount of effort often needed to get some animals into a crush. Although called the “Cow Tipper” this crush is capable of rolling over the largest of bulls as you can see in the attached photo. Once the animal is in the crush its head is secured with the hydraulic neck lock and its body secured either with the belly bands or the squeeze side method. The animal is then rolled on to its side and all feet are restrained which ensures complete safety for the user with a specially designed belt and clamp system. The whole procedure is done in a few minutes and all four feet are available for inspection and treatment where needed. For extra large bulls a neck lock extension can be fitted to enlarge the crush crate. This method of controlling the animal ensures the operator is as safe as possible at all times. The inclusion of a dung chute to transfer the animals mess away from the operator when it is in the crush makes the handling of the animals a much cleaner operation. The crush comes with a soft shoulder rest to ensure full animal comfort. An additional benefit of the “Cow Tipper” is that udders are easily visible and accessible giving the opportunity for dry cow therapy and to identify and treat any udder irregularity.

The mobile crush comes with a high speed weight transfer axle, anti roll and torsion bars, shocks and brakes which makes the crush

safe and steady on the road. With a robust galvanized frame The “Cow Tipper” is durable, easily cleaned and built to last.

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55

LIVESTOCK New Eat Well, Play Well Booklet Launched

By Jennifer Robertson Health and Education Coordinator, Quality Meat Scotland

Pupils from schools across Scotland joined former Celtic and Scotland captain Tom Boyd to launch the new “Eat Well, Play Well” booklet.

A new publication aimed at promoting a healthy balanced diet for those interested in football has been launched by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and Street Soccer Scotland. Pupils from schools across Scotland joined former Celtic and Scotland captain Tom Boyd to celebrate the launch of the new booklet at the recent Legacy 2014 Schools Challenge, part of the PwC/ Street Soccer Scotland Cup in George Square, Glasgow. School teams, all sporting Scotch Beef PGI t-shirts, participated in the Challenge and represented the sixteen nations from the Commonwealth including Scotland, England, India, Jamaica and Malawi. At the event, Scotland’s Homeless World Cup squad for this year’s tournament in Chile was also selected from those players competing in the Scottish Homeless Cup. Players from eight regional men’s teams and four women’s teams from Aberdeen, Ayrshire, Dundee, Edinburgh, Forth Valley, Glasgow, Inverness and Perth also took part. 56

Jennifer Robertson, Health and Education Co-ordinator with QMS, said that the aim of the new publication is to encourage those with an interest in football to make simple changes to their lifestyles and eating habits so they feel healthier. “QMS undertakes a range of health and education activities to help people see the benefits of eating a healthy, balanced diet and living an active lifestyle,” said Mrs Robertson. “The tips on regular exercise and achieving a balanced diet that are included in this booklet should make readers feel better and give them heaps of energy to tackle life’s challenges both on and off the football pitch.” David Duke, Founder and CEO Street Soccer Scotland said: “For the last five years, Street Soccer Scotland has tackled social exclusion and poverty head on by using football as a vehicle for social change. We are very proud to be supported by Scotch Beef PGI and everyone here believes that it is vital to ‘fuel your body’ to not only achieve

your best in sport, but also to lead an active, healthy life. “In partnership with Scotch Beef PGI, we have created this booklet for our players and young people in order to highlight the importance of eating the right food as part of a healthy diet. We are very lucky to have some of our famous football friends in the booklet sharing their favourite recipes as well as top tips on healthy eating and information about Street Soccer Scotland.” To receive free copies of the booklet please contact Street Soccer Scotland on 0131 339 0011 or emailinfo@ streetsoccerscotland.org. You can also download the publication from www.streetsoccerscotland. co.uk. She was also joined by butcher Gary Conacher of Simon Howie Butchers and Strathearnbased beef farmer, Matthew Mauchlen of Woodburn Farm, near Crieff. Ms Williamson and the proud chef, butcher and farmer trio sampled some of the fabulous Strathearn Pies, and raised a glass of Glenturret malt whisky to toast a very special week for the people of Strathearn.

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Poultry farmers from Strathaven, Kilmaurs and Laurencekirk have joined forces to secure a £400,000 contract to supply Aldi with free range, whole Scottish chickens. The three farmers, trading as MGM Poultry, secured the lucrative deal to supply Aldi with 2500 Scottish reared and slaughtered chickens every week - worth more than £400,000 a year to the poultry farmers. Robert Morris at MGM Poultry said: “We started talking about working together around in 2013 with the aim of providing a leading retailer with our quality, free range Scottish poultry. Aldi recognised the quality of our produce and we secured an annual contract which will provide a huge boost to the sector. The buying team at Aldi have been great to work with and it’s exciting to see our product on the shelves across stores in Scotland. ” Richard Holloway, managing director for Aldi in Scotland commented: “Working with local suppliers is very important to our brand and being able to forge close, direct relationships means we are able to give our customers the quality Scottish products they deserve at everyday low prices. We work with a lot of farmers around the country and are very proud to be able to stock their fresh produce.” Scottish Free Range Whole Chickens are now available at Aldi chickens individually priced / £3.29 per kg.

LIVESTOCK

Mole Valley Farmers join forces in new feed initiative for South West Scotland

John C Fergusson, in conjunction with Mole Valley Farmers have announced joint investment plans to build a new fully integrated, innovative feed manufacturing business for ruminant livestock producers in South West Scotland and North West England. The construction of a state of the art ruminant compound feed

mill has commenced at Coylton, Ayrshire, and is planned to be in operation later in the year. With capacity approaching 200,000 tonnes of compound and blended feed, the offering will be complimented by a full range of other livestock inputs. J C Fergusson have been servicing farmers in South West Scotland for over 20 years and

pride themselves in delivering the highest level of customer service. Managing director, John Fergusson says the construction of the mill reflects the company’s belief that livestock farmers in Scotland are looking for more value and support for the future as they drive for greater efficiency and productivity.

“Combining our logistics, expertise and service reputation with a strong farmer owned partner who brings manufacturing know-how, purchasing scale, and credible knowledge and specialisation, will only further benefit farmers in Scotland and the North West of England,” says John. “Mole Valley Farmers are farmer owned and bring a holistic approach to ruminant production by combining specialised knowledge in nutrition, health, husbandry and forage production. Strong cooperative principles ensure their presence alone will create a more competitive environment for farm inputs.” Mole Valley Farmers were established in 1960 and now have more than 8,000 farmer shareholders and over 30,000 members. With 52 agricultural and rural retailing stores stretching from the borders of Scotland to Cornwall and a feed business of over 700,000 tonnes, Mole Valley Farmers remain farmer owned with farming at the core of its future strategy. Turnover is expected to exceed £430 million during 2014.

equally well adapted to provide economic performance in a wide range of UK beef suckler situations. Herbie is one of three Saler sires now in the Cogent stud and – with the added benefit of sexed semen – we now have our most comprehensive selection yet for this breed.”

Cogent’s Signature Beef range is geared to the requirements of all pedigree and commercial beef producers, providing breedleading genetics from all the main breeds. Fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg bl ZoZbeZ[e^ Zm ppp'\h`^gmnd' \hf hk [r \Zeebg` _k^^iahg^ )1)) 01, 0+.1'

Herbie extends Saler choices within Cogent’s Signature Beef range Cogent has added the Saler sire Bacardi Herbie to its Signature Beef range of bulls, with semen available as sexed or conventional to give the widest choice yet for this versatile breed. Sired by Cleuchhead Yoda out of Cleuchhead Delilah 2nd, Herbie has a pedigree offering strong maternal traits giving him great potential as a sire of suckler herd replacements for pedigree and commercial producers. He also has potential to produce progeny for finishing, having 58

strong carcase traits and the ability to enhance fleshing. “Herbie displays the credentials to transmit exceptional milking ability and good width at the pelvis for easy calving and hence has the potential to breed excellent replacements,” explains Cogent Beef Sire Analyst Boomer Birch. “His ability to also produce quality calves for finishing gives him real versatility. “The Saler is known for its ability to do well in difficult environmental conditions but is

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Liver Fluke affects nearly 1 in 4 British Cattle Liver fluke in cattle is on the rise according to the latest official data released by the Food Standards Agency. The figures for 2013 show that nearly one in four cattle - 24% - sent for slaughter at abattoirs across Britain had their livers condemned as a result of liver fluke. This is a significant rise over the 2012 figure of 19%1. These figures are a cause for concern for all British farmers, but particularly for Scottish producers where the percentage of cattle livers condemned has risen to 32%, and those in Wales where it has risen to 27%. Lynda Maris, Brand Manager with Merial Animal Health, said: “We know that liver fluke infection costs the beef industry money because it increases finishing times and feed costs. Indeed, EBLEX estimates that the parasite can cost cattle farmers as much as £87 per head . Increasingly though, it is also denying the producer and processor additional profit from the fifth quarter. The fact that nearly one in four cattle across Britain, and nearly one in three in Scotland are affected by fluke, will be hitting producers in their pockets at a time when they can ill afford it.” Chris Mallon, Chief Executive of the National Beef Association, also expressed his concern about the level of condemnations for liver fluke. He said: “As an association we have become aware of the fact that the problem of fluke has spread into areas where it hadn’t been seen previously. However, these figures are a real wake-up call to the industry and everyone needs to consider strategies for prevention and treatment to reduce the impact of a disease which is costing the industry millions of pounds every year.”

7KH :RUP 7KDW 7XUQHG With the emergence of and increased awareness of resistance in sheep worms to anthelmintics, there have been significant changes in the regimes used for worming sheep compared with several years ago when regular and blanket worming was the norm. Efforts need to be focused on avoiding production of “the worm that turned - out to be resistant”. The SCOPS (Sustainable Control of Parasites of Sheep) project has been useful in producing a technical manual which is a good resource for both vets and farmers in planning worming regimes for sheep flocks. There are several key issues which should be addressed in a developing an appropriate regime. Worms in refugia. This is a difficult term to get your head around but these are the populations of worms which are not exposed to wormers and are important in preventing the emergence of resistant strains. Typically they are represented by the free living stages and those in sheep which have not been wormed eg adult ewes. Adult ewes carry a low burden of worms and should not need regular worming except in the spring time around lambing. Targeted dosing. Instead of worming all lambs every few weeks, lambs which are not thriving, or are showing signs and symptoms of worms , should be targeted for worming. The use of weigh crates is useful in assessing growth rates as well as allowing accurate dosing. Similarly blanket dosing of all ewes is not recommended during the summer and autumn, but can be targeted towards thin ewes or those showing symptoms of worms. Monitor for resistance. The history of which wormers have been used on the farm is important as well as the apparent failure of particular wormers to work effectively.

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Resistance to a wormer can be starting to emerge long before it is noticed grossly. The use of faecal worm egg counts is a useful tool in both monitoring the need for worming, identifying the species of worm involved, and detecting emerging resistance. Resistance can be detected by measuring the worm egg counts from a selection of sheep before and after dosing. A reduction of less than 95% can be indicative of resistance. There are now five main groups of sheep wormer classified according to their active ingredient. Particular attention should be paid to how and when wormers from each group are used, and depending on the farm history, it is not always a case of simply changing from the routine use of one type of wormer to the routine use of another. Strategic dosing with some of the newer groups of wormer can have a benefit if they are used within a regime involving other groups. Quarantine dosing. The aim of quarantine dosing is to prevent the introduction of new types and potentially resistant strains of worms on to the farm. It also allows the new sheep to become populated with the strains of worms which are already on the farm. New sheep should be yarded for 24-48 hrs to prevent their worms contaminating the pasture. Sheep are then treated with a combination of wormers to

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THE VET

LIVESTOCK

effectively kill all the worms in them. After treatment, the new arrivals are turned out onto contaminated grass where they can pick up worms from the farm’s existing worm population. Dose effectively. Failure to dose correctly and effectively is wasteful in both time and money, as well as allowing resistance to develop. Dosing equipment should be checked before use to make sure it is working properly and delivering the correct volume. Doses should be calculated accurately and where there is a mixed group of weights, then the sheep should be dosed according to the heaviest sheep in the group. Oral doses should be delivered over the back of the tongue rather than just squirted into the mouth. In developing a worming regime for sheep it is important:

Mh ik^iZk^ bm _hk ^Z\a bg]bob]nZe _Zkf Mh fhgbmhk bml ^__^\mbo^g^ll ;^ ik^iZk^] mh Zem^k Zg] Zf^g] bm Z\\hk]bg` mh \aZg`bg` \bk\nflmZg\^l' The Worm that Turned was of course a Two Ronnies sketch where male and female roles were reversed. That could happen with roundworms where the sexes are differentiated however tapeworms would struggle, as they are hermaphroditic –a bit of both! Interestingly the origin of the term comes from Shakespeare’s Henry 6th “ the smallest worm will turn, being trodden on “ – whilst it might not cause resistance its not a method of worm control I would recommend!

59

LIVESTOCK

Scottish Cattle Industry Group Makes Benchmarking a Priority

Some of the members of the new group – back row from left Andrew Baillie, Mike Martin, Robert Fleming, Michael Shannon, Stephen Allardyce, Donald Brown, Robert Gilchrist and John Sproat. In the foreground are QMS chairman, Jim McLaren, and Scottish Cattle Industry Group chairman Andrew Elliott.

The new Scottish Cattle Industry Group established by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has identified benchmarking as a priority at its first meeting in Stirling. The group has been established to work closely with QMS to provide feedback,

advice and guidance to ensure the organisation’s cattle-related projects are sharply focused on grassroots industry needs to maximise benefits for the Scottish cattle industry. Borders farmer Andrew Elliot, who is based at Blackhaugh near Galashiels, has

been appointed as chairman of the new group. Mr Elliott runs 220 cows, of which half are pedigree Aberdeen Angus, and over 4,500 ewes on four hill and upland units. As well as discussions around the current QMS activity plan for cattle-related work,

the group has suggested QMS works on management systems with a focus on producing the optimum specification of cattle for the different markets that exist within Scotland. The group also emphasised the need for a greater uptake of benchmarking to take place within the industry. Scottish Cattle Industry Group Chairman Andrew Elliot said: “The first meeting has been a really positive start for our group. We have a good range of group members covering all parts of the industry. “A clear priority identified at our first meeting is the need for adequate benchmarking of cattle businesses to take place to ensure farmers can focus on the right parts of their businesses to drive efficiency. “We are planning to help deliver that by establishing various groups across the country through our ‘Focus on Figures’ project, one of the main outputs of which we hope will be a benchmarking tool for wider use by the whole industry.” The group will hold regular meetings throughout the year. QMS has similar groups which focus on sheep and pigs.

New hoofcare disinfectant from Progiene Rumenco division Nettex will launch a new footbath product at the Livestock Event as part of its developing Progiene dairy hygiene range. According to Rumenco product manager for dairy hygiene Alison Clark, DigicurTM Footbath is a fast-acting broad-spectrum disinfectant based on glutaraldehyde plus QAC biocides with proven efficacy against known bacterial challenges that can led to hoof disorders. “Lameness continues to affect 25% of the national dairy herd and with each 60

case costing farmer an average of £171.56 per cow – or £15,000 per 100 cows, which is around a penny for every litre of milk produced – there is significant demand for innovative new management solutions. More so now with antibiotic resistance concerns and the fact that toxic, high in heavy metal traditional footbath products are becoming much less acceptable,” she said. “In DigicurTM Footbath we believe we have found the perfect non-corrosive disinfectant to meet new market needs. It is free

from formalin, copper and other heavy metals and is formulated with high levels of surfactants to ensure hoof cling and penetration to maximise effectiveness. This benefit also means the product performs well for each cow pass through the footbath. “DigicurTM Footbath can also be used at a low concentration (1% solution), yet still retains activity with high hoof soil loads. And its low pH inhibits bacterial growth, even at low temperatures.” DigicurTM Footbath is available in 25, 200 and

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1000 litre packs from the agricultural merchant trade. It can also be used for sheep.

SHEEP

Newly elected MEPs asked to address £23 million TSE burden on UK sheep sector

The National Sheep Association (NSA) has written to all 73 newly elected and re-elected MEPs, plus the 39 outgoing representatives, drawing their attention to a £23 million annual bill burdening sheep farmers due to one single piece of EU legislation. NSA published a report on transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) earlier this year, revealing the true cost of the BSE hangover to the sheep sector. The report was sent to key figures within DG-SANCO and the European Food Safety Authority, who developed and informed the current TSE legislation, and has now been sent to MEPs to encourage them to lobby on the matter.

Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “NSA has thoroughly investigated the cost of TSE regulations, and specifically the requirement to split carcases of older lambs and sheep, and has found it costs the UK sheep sector more than £23 million per year. The regulations causing this phenomenal and unnecessary cost were a result of the BSE crisis back in the 1990s, but the differences between BSE in cattle and TSEs (scrapie) in sheep means the rules around sheep were never based in scientific fact. The biggest frustration for lamb producers has come in recent years when BSE cattle legislation has been relaxed but sheep farmers have been apparently

forgotten and continue to carry a huge regulatory and financial burden.” TSE rules laid down by Europe require carcases to be split and the spinal cord removed if lambs are old enough to have their first pair of permanent teeth, creating costs in auction markets where teeth have to be checked for, in abattoirs by slowing down the slaughter line to split carcases, and in processing facilities by devaluing the carcase because it is not whole. This amounts to more than £23m each and every year, which is directly or indirectly passed back to the farmer.

Mr Stocker continues: “£23m is an incredible amount of money to lose every year and does not even take into consideration the value of the export markets currently closed to the UK because of the negative connotations of us having TSE regulations in place – the presence of rules suggests the presence of disease when in fact the exact opposite is true. With more than one-third of UK-produced lamb already sold to Europe and around of the world, maintaining and growing this export market is vital in ensuring the sheep sector continues to contribution to the British economy in a very meaningful way.

Golden Shears sponsored by Texacloth

The Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing & Wool Handling Championships took place in Gorey, Co. Wexford, Ireland on Saturday 17th May until Sunday 25th May 2014. Texacloth Ltd proudly 62

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sponsored the travel of the Chinese team. Texacloth's Managing Director, Aidan Walsh, was pictured with the Chinese team, Fu Haishan, Qi Xuequan, Li Xuejie, Wang Lei and Zhang Zhouran, who was the supervisor and interpreter.

1)86

SHEEP

Flooding concerns

UK tops Europe, Middle East and Africa for parent flock performance

By Nigel Miller, President NFU Scotland

The award for the top Cobb flock for Europe, Middle East and Africa has been won for the fourth year running by the UK – this time going to Scottish farmer Mark Robson of Pressen Hill Farm, Kelso, Roxburghshire. The award is based on results from more than 40 million Cobb500 parent stock placed in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and completing production in 2013. The winning flock of almost 34,000 females, supplying the P D Hook hatchery at Dalton, achieved 144.87 chicks / breeder to 60 weeks of age, with a cumulative hatchability of 86.27 percent. Awards were presented by Roy Mutimer, general manager of the Cobb Europe region, to Mark Robson and his poultry manager Ian Bonney, who

also received an iPad. James Hook, chairman of the PD Hook Group, received the company award along with Andrew Gibson and Charlie McManus. Dalton hatchery manager, Calvin Carpenter was unable to attend but is also receiving an award. The rearing farm manager Mick Ormerod, responsible for PD Hook’s Gallows Green and Topcliffe rearing farms, also received an award and an iPad. Antony Taylor, UK account manager, commented: “The award reflects the outstanding attention to detail in the management from rearing through to laying and hatching. We are seeing more consistently high performance among UK flocks with PD Hook having seven exceeding 140 chicks / breeder in 2013.”

=PZP[ FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE UL^ ^LIZP[L www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com Farming News – Commodity Prices – Weather Outlook Agri Pages Online Directory – Magazine Archives And so much more… www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

The legacy of high waters and extreme tides over the winter is still impacting heavily on several farms. Units in both Perthshire and Dumfries & Galloway are still at risk with significant areas out of production. Meetings with Scottish Government and SEPA to discuss the damage to flood defences and their wider impacts have made some progress. The use of baled tyre reinforcement has been given the green light and repair programmes have started. Clearly this physical progress is vital if breeches are to be made good before high tides in August cut further into the land. Unfortunately, the Scottish Government has yet to map out a coherent flood defence strategy and no public funding has been allocated to rural reconstruction work. It remains important in the present circumstances - and for the future - for government to proactively support the repair and the upgrade of flood defences. Repairs are in the direct interest of the farmers and land managers affected but there are also significant public benefits. Maintaining

our productive land resource for future generations must be a priority with food security high on the world’s agenda. Maintaining traditional coastal ecosystems, protecting adjacent land, roadways, housing and infrastructure including power transmission lines are all vital for the wider community. Failing to maintain our defences is not an option. Forcing family farming businesses to shoulder that technical and cost burden alone fails to take account of the wider benefits and is not sustainable. In southern regions of the UK, a support programme has been introduced with farmers being able to tap in to £35k farm package to make good repairs and improve structures. A similar programme in Scotland would be of value and would underpin the repair campaign which will draw in significant investment from farm businesses. With time now short before weather closes down repair options, it is urgent for those affected to see clear commitment from the Scottish Government that it is to share the cost of upgrading core infrastructure.

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SHEEP DOG TRIALS

International Sheep Dog Society World Trials 3rd-6th September 2014 The 2014 World Sheep Dog Trials are coming to Scotland for the very first time, to a superb venue courtesy of the Scott family at Fearn Farm, By Tain, RossShire. The International Sheep Dog Society holds World Trials every three years and this year sees the fifth World Trial. Two hundred and forty competitors from twenty five nations have all had to succeed in national selection to gain a place on the entry list, and all have had to work hard to arrive ready for competition over four days. Nations include Japan, Brazil, The Faroe Islands, South Africa, Canada and much

64

of Europe and Scandinavia, as well as the home nations of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This Sheepdog Trial is not a race between dogs and sheep – it is about showing the care, skill and dedication of a man or woman working with a dog to look after the flock as he, or she, has for hundreds of years. This World Trial is a culmination of one of the International Sheep Dog Society’s objectives – to bring the world together to support and enjoy this wonderful dog, and over the four days of world-class competition to find the very best there is.

Qualifying takes place across three different fields at the farm on Wednesday 3rd September and Thursday 4th September. Eighty dogs will run on each field each day. At the end of competition, on Thursday, the seven top dogs from each field (total 42 dogs) will go forward to a ballot for a running order for the SemiFinals. Then, on Friday 5th September the top sixteen from the Semi-Finals will enter a ballot to decide the running order for the finals, which will take place on Saturday 6th September. The event is being organised by the International Sheep

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Dog Society and its Scottish members, supported through the Homecoming Scotland 2014 programme. Whilst the trial activity will be the central focus of the event, complementary attractions are planned for all age groups: Opening Parade and Civic Reception - to kick off the event the Tain Pipe band will lead a spectacular parade of all the competing teams and their dogs through Scotland's oldest Royal Burgh of Tain. This will be preceded by a civic reception in the afternoon to which all competitors/visitors will be invited to attend. Evolution and Revolution 1850 to 1950 – a working vintage display with commentary charting the evolution of farming methods amidst the turmoil in the Highland community way of life over the century. Mark Wylie and his Drakes of Hazard – a fantastic fun display showing man and dog working fearless Indian Runner ducks round an obstacle course and getting up to all sorts of tricks in the process. Art of sheepdog training – a demonstration of how our intelligent Border Collie sheep dogs are trained. Highland crafts arena – showcasing the very best of local produce where the visitor can find a genuine Highland gift to take back home. Livestock display – a show of the different breeds of sheep

SHEEP DOG TRIALS with commentary on their development and qualities. Trade arena – showcasing the quality products of Highland businesses. Children's corner - will provide on-going entertainment for the youngsters. Evening entertainment – showcasing the best of Scottish and Highland music in a traditional ceilidh setting. On the evenings during the event evening entertainment will showcase the best of Scottish and Highland music in a traditional ceilidh setting and on the Friday evening a traditional Scottish ceilidh and dinner will be held in the marquee on site. All visitors to the World Trial will be greeted with a warm welcome at the entrance gate and offered a free information leaflet giving general information about the sheep dog, the ISDS, and the trial. On the Friday afternoon

and Saturday experienced sheepdog trial people will be available at a designated information point overlooking the trial field to provide a

commentary on the competitor runs with their dog to aid the visitor's understanding. ?hk fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg ie^Zl^ oblbm ppp'

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phke]la^^i]h`mkbZel'hk`( Ma^ Bgm^kgZmbhgZe La^^i =h` Lh\b^mr ppp'bl]l'hk`'nd% ^fZbe h_Û\^9bl]l'hk`'nd hk m^e^iahg^ )*+,- ,.+/0+.

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DAIRY

A busy summer ahead for Dairypower as Slurry Aeration season kicks in

Dairypower Equipment is an Irish manufacturer of automatic scraper systems and slurry aeration system with its headquarters in Cork. In 2012 the company opened a UK office in Preston to run its UK operation which is headed up by Anthony Coxhead. The summer is a busy time for installing its slurry aeration system. The Dairypower Slurry Aeration System is now established as being the most cost effective and environmentally friendly methods of keeping slurry in a pumpable state that is always ready to spread. The system introduced to the Irish market

in 1998 is now established as a market leader in Ireland and the UK with over 300 systems in operation. The system is relatively simple because it employs only a low energy consumption electric motor and roots blower pump, electric rotary valves and non-return outlet valves. All the piping is 50mm class D upvc which neither corrodes nor degrades. Working on a time switch, the system is fully automatic and would typically run for 3 - 4 periods each day without any need for human intervention. Furthermore, the running costs have been shown

GEA Farm Technologies boost for Ayrshire farmer Reduced milking times, improved cow management and hygiene are just some of the benefits father and son Gilmour and Kevin Lawrie at Sandyford Farm, Monkton, have seen in the first four months since installing a GEA Farm Technologies 30/30 Global 90 REf rapid exit parlour with feeding. Gilmour took on the farm in 2001, establishing the high genetic blended pedigree Brieryside Herd of which they are currently milking 227 Ayrshire cows with plans to increase total herd numbers to 280 cows. The new dairy and parlour were part of planned ongoing improvements including extra housing and a silage pit for maize at Sandyford Farm, and the Lawrie’s became interested in GEA’s German technology through DairyFlow, GEA’s main dealer in Scotland, based in Kilmarnock. “Both DairyFlow’s and GEA’s attention to detail as well 66

as going to see a similar parlour in operation in Cheshire sold it for me,” said Mr Lawrie. “We believe the GEA WestfaliaSurge equipment was the only choice for us because of the technology and reputation of the brand and dealership in this area." Milk, which is sold at a premium to First Milk, has always been in the top bracket for cell counts and hygiene. However, in just four months the new parlour’s IQ clusters have already made a difference. “In the last four months we’ve only tubed two cows out of 227 milking for mastitis. Cell counts are running at 89 and bactoscans are down to 9 and I believe the cows are milking out better as well.” Another major benefit has been reduced milking times, with the Lawries saving 3/4 hours on both milkings each day. The performance from the parlour is encouraging the Lawries to consider increasing the milking to three times a day.

by independent evaluation to be as low as £1 per day. The introduction of air into the storage tank has two main effects on the slurry - that of effective mixing caused by the physical action of rising air bubbles, and that of odour reduction of the promotion

of aerobic bacteria which digest toxins, fatty acids and ammonia and reduce the biological oxygen demand of the slurry. The Dairypower slurry aeration system can be installed in concrete tanks, slurry stores and lagoons.

Scottish Dairy Hub launched A Scottish Dairy Hub has been launched to offer the country’s dairy farmers a trusted single point of contact for their enquiries. The Hub has been established following a recommendation of the Scottish Dairy Review “Ambition 2025” report by James Withers current Chief Executive of Scotland Food and Drink. It is a joint initiative between the Scottish Government and DairyCo. The Scottish Dairy Hub is an independent initiative that is unique to Scotland and will offer Scottish dairy farmers a conduit for reliable and accurate information. Stuart Martin has been appointed as manager of the Hub and will work with both dairy farmers and stakeholders to deliver positive outcomes for the industry. Stuart’s background is principally in business development, and in the last 11 years has become fully briefed on issues surrounding dairy farming in Scotland both commercially and at farm level.

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Stuart commented: “It will act as the one-stop shop for authoritative information, advice and training so it can proactively and reactively work with farmers in directing them to the best source of advice to improve business planning and technical efficiency.” George Jamieson, Policy Manager for NFU Scotland, who has been involved with the initiative throughout, commented: “Scottish dairy farmers must be in a position to maintain and increase a competitive advantage and see a worthwhile return for their efforts. To do this we need a fit for purpose effective support structure, including a highly effective well-resourced, accessible transparent knowledge transfer service. Key to this is a proactive communications hub which can identify the right services, quickly and efficiently.” ?hk _nkma^k bg_hkfZmbhg hg ma^ L\hmmbla =Zbkr An[ \hgmZ\m LmnZkm ]bk^\mer hg )0.)) 0// )1,.

DAIRY

UK Dairy Day offers £16k prize fund for cattle classes Dairy farmers from across the country will be competing for a share of one of the largest pots of prize money at a UK show this September. Generous sponsorship means the inaugural UK Dairy Day on Wednesday 17th September is offering a prize fund of £16,375, with the champion animal of each breed to scoop £500. “We are delighted at the level of interest in this new national event, and at the generosity of our sponsors,” says organiser Simon Gee. “We’ve already booked more than 120 trade stands, which is considerably ahead of original expectations and means we’ve had to expand into additional areas of the exhibition centre.”

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DAIRY With such a large pot of money available, Mr Gee expects entries for all the cattle classes to flood in. “Schedules are now available, and entries for coloured breeds close on 15th July,” he adds. Class sponsors include Cogent Breeding, Delaval, Farmers Guardian, Holstein UK, Kuhn Farm Machinery, NWF Agriculture and Provita Eurotech. As well as three classes for each of the coloured breeds, UK Dairy Day will be hosting the National Holstein Show, with 26 regional clubs entering teams. Entries for Holstein classes will be channelled through the regional clubs and close on 5th August. Those lucky enough to win their class will receive £175, with second place prize money of

£125, and cash prizes available all the way down to 10th place. In addition, breed champions will receive £500 and reserve champions £250. “The day's finale will be the Holstein team of four, which will be judged by leading Danish breeder Niels Erik Haahr, and offers a £1000 prize for the champion team,” says Mr Gee. He is expecting at least 250 cattle entries, meaning visitors will be able to watch the best of every dairy breed in action. In addition, they will be able to attend a variety of business seminars and speak to a wide range of exhibitors at the International Centre in Telford, Shropshire. “The theme of the event is ‘Helping increase profits’,” says Mr Gee. “At a time when dairy incomes are under immense

pressure, this event will cover every aspect of profitable dairy farming, and provide visitors with everything they need to improve their business under one roof.”

Fabulous foursome bring top proven bloodlines to UK farms

Young genomic bulls may be stealing the limelight in the Holstein breeding industry, but Cogent has just launched a pack of daughter-proven sires that’s giving the youngsters a run for their money. Amongst them is Tesser who will have an important place on UK farms, as a son of Colby and out of the Italian-bred cow, Trione FBI Milene, herself a daughter of Gillette Brilea FBI. “These bloodlines aren’t particularly familiar to all UK breeders, and they will inject some hybrid vigour into UK herds,” continues Mr Challenor. “He’s a high production outcross sire that gets away from Oman, Shottle, Goldwyn and Planet, and when you look at his daughters and his breeding 68

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pattern you can see why he will appeal. “The heifers I have recently seen in Italy were medium in stature with good chest width – they look the type whose frames will develop as they mature and their outstanding udders also looked built to stand the test of time. “His sire, Colby, produced similar cows that worked well in large scale commercial environments, although Tesser will breed better udders. I’d suggest he’d work well on End Story daughters.” Tesser offers a TM of 2.89, a PLI of £143 and improves all health and fitness traits. ?hk fhk^ bg_hkfZmbhg Z[hnm ma^ <h`^gm lmn]% ie^Zl^ \Zee <h`^gm hg )1)) 01, 0+.1'

DAIRY

New mixture will help UK livestock farmers improve their profitability

CAP package for Scotland

By Richard Lochhead Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment The Scottish Government

Leading seed producer Barenbrug has launched a new mixture designed to help UK livestock farmers improve their profitability. BARForage Dairy Grazing is a mixture of 35% Dunluce and 65% Tyrella and has been designed specifically to extend the grazing period for cows. This follows news of the market leading performance of both varieties on the Teagasc Pasture Profit Index (PPI) which ranks grass varieties according to their value in the Moorepark Dairy Systems Model - a pasture based system of milk production. Dunluce, which is an intermediate heading tetraploid ryegrass, is the most profitable variety having a pasture profit index of 226 euros per hectare - over 20% ahead of its nearest rival - and Tyrella is the most profitable late heading diploid ryegrass with a PPI of 48 euros per hectare. The PPI comprises of: spring, mid-season and autumn grass Dry Matter (DM) production, grass quality (April to July inclusive), first & second silage

DM production and persistency. It rewards those varieties that shorten winter feeding such as spring and autumn grasses so cows can be kept in the fields for longer periods. Said James Ingles, Barenbrug's Head of Agriculture, "We were delighted with how the two varieties performed in the PPI and so it seemed logical to come up with a new mixture combining the two, giving farmers the best of both worlds. "BARForage Dairy Grazing mixture will allow them to take advantage of the most cost effective feed for livestock available to them - grazed grass! "Tyrella has the best spring growth of any late heading diploid, while Dunluce is not only the top yielding variety but maintains both yield and quality right through to late autumn. "BARForage Dairy Grazing will not only give maximum production at times of the year when grass is the most valuable, but will also form a dense, easily managed sward."

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DAIRY

Graham’s The Family Dairy shine at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2014

Graham’s The Family Dairy is celebrating a trio of awards after winning three categories at the national Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards. No other company won more than Graham’s. The Graham’s The Family Dairy presented with: Brand Success of the Year – an award recognising the strength of the market research and development, marketing initiatives and overall marketing

strategy, Scottish Food & Drink Entrepreneur of the year (Robert Graham) – recognising the Managing Director’s commitment to drive the business forward and his vision for the future, Business of the Year – nominated and presented by Scotland Food & Drink, this award recognises Graham’s hard work and dedication to the industry over the last 12 months, In addition Graham’s The Family Dairy was also shortlisted for their delicious

cheddar cheese in the Dairy category Marketing Director, Carol Graham commented on the success by saying: “We are thrilled to be able to celebrate the wonderful successes of the business this year. These awards showcase the best food and drink producers in Scotland and so we feel honored and privileged to have won three awards on the night. This achievement really does recognise the hard work

across the company and we will certainly share this success with every member of the Graham’s team.” Robert Graham, Managing Director added: “These three high profile awards are a testament to our commitment to drive the business forward by having closer relationships with everyone on our supply change, from our farmers right through to the customers who support the Graham’s range.”

Union calls for pricing models to be developed for wider dairy sector NFU Scotland is stressing the importance of pricing models to be developed by progressive milk buyers and a strategic partnership to be developed with their suppliers. This is after recent announcements by various dairy co-operatives of price cuts, including First Milk, Arla and Grahams Family Dairy, and has prompted a greater 70

need for more effective, intelligent and profound pricing. The Union has previously highlighted the need for a transparent and marketrelated pricing mechanisms in the wider milk sector. Progressive milk buyers must not base their supply security on paying just as much as they need to, based on a competitor’s price.

NFU Scotland’s Dairy Policy Manager George Jamieson said: “The latest round of cuts have been justified by globally weaker markets and has followed the usual pattern that once one card falls the rest follow. “For those processors who claim that the price was as high as could be delivered then compare prices for March 2014 in Denmark 38.15ppl,

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Sweden 36.95ppl and Holland 36.37ppl with the UK average price of 33.65ppl. These countries are dominated by successful co-ops, who have an obligation to pay their owners [farmers] as high a price as they can deliver. Thus their price depends on the success of the business which will be dictated by markets and performance. If both go well then farmers benefit.

ESTATE

When the world’s your oyster catcher When you live on an island and have one of the best views in the world from your window, it makes sense to encompass this natural beauty to enhance your business. This is exactly what Tom Nelson and his family have achieved at Glengorm Castle Estate on the Island of Mull. Glengorm was built in 1860, the name meaning “Blue Glen” which refers to the smoke from the burning cottages during the clearances. The 5000 acre estate is mainly hill and rough grazing including around 800 acres of in bye/improved grassland land and carries a large fold of 70 Highland cattle with 120 followers and 800 Blackface ewes, most of which are bred pure with 200 being put to the Beltex ram. “The Estate aims to try and create a whole business, where each facet feeds into another as every part of the business depends on another.” Explains Tom Nelson. “We aim to create an environment where people want to stay and settle.” There are currently 16 staff employed on the estate and another 10 in the bakery in Tobermory. With all of the beef produced being reared, slaughtered and sold locally, the addition of a 2 acre market garden within the original walled garden in the castle grounds, allowed the development of the old stable block into a Coffee Shop using the estate produce. It also houses an Art Gallery where local artists display their work and one of the 9 self-catering flats and cottages throughout the estate. All of the produce can be bought by holiday makers,

making this an ideal selfcontained holiday destination for anyone who enjoys, walking cycling or wildlife or just lazing around in the castle grounds, which with the family’s relaxed and informal attitude to their guests, makes it very easy to do. Having a license for civil and church weddings, the castle also lends itself to being and ideal venue for a unique day. With a natural habitat for many of the island’s resident and migratory wildlife population and hosting a plethora of native and often rare wildlife and plant species, The Glengorm Wildlife Project was launched in the spring of 2013. It is

the ideal location to showcase some of the west coast’s diverse animal, bird and plant life. From eagles to oyster catchers and from otters to orchids, the place is teaming with things to see and the best way to do it is with Glengorm’s own Wildlife Steward Stephanie Cope. Steph’s knowledge not only of the estate but of the wildlife which inhabits it, could not fail to light a spark in anyone who accompanies her on the wildlife walks. Her enthusiasm is infectious and has visitors scanning the sky for eagles or raking around in the moss for rare plants. Walks range from a difficult 6 hour hike to the Volcano where the

golden eagles, red deer and rare mountain dwelling plants can be seen to a leisurely 2 -4 hour walk where there is an opportunity to see dolphins, sperm whales, sea birds and marsh inhabitants, while taking in the 4000 year old standing stones and two iron Age forts. Island life is not for everyone so the ability to create such a successful, diverse business, which encourages people not only to visit and enjoy Mull but to become part of the Island and make their life there is to be commended. ?hk _nkma^k bg_h `h mh ppp'`e^g`hkf\Zlme^'\h'nd

Diversification leads to business opportunities for SME’s Large estates and landowners could be better served by partnering with independent businesses, rather than full service organisations for professional advice. That is according to Estate Life, which provides expertise to some

of the UK’s most prestigious property owners. With many landowners and estates diversifying into sectors - including retail, energy and tourism - the range of business expertise required means small business owners can steal a

march on full-service business consultancies offering a tailored, flexible service to high net-worth clients. An advisor to Country House Rescue, the Edinburgh-based agency Estate Life has seen a significant rise in diversification

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as private estate owners look to create new revenue streams from their assets. However, as the more established business partner organisations seek to rise to the challenge of keeping up with the market, it is often smaller 71

ESTATE owner-managed consultants whom can offer a more targeted service and better flexibility. Managing Director, Susan Reid explains: “Historically one firm would provide all the professional advice to a large estate including property management and financial advice, however with significant innovation in diversification it is difficult for a single organisation to provide the depth of knowledge required. Smaller businesses which specialise in a specific area such as commercial lettings, insurance, or renewables are often a better alternative and this opens up an exciting opportunity for SMEs.” However, Estate Life cautioned against using organisations without the right business credentials. To support, Estate Life has created a number of toolkits which provide valuable advice on how to manage diversification projects including choosing the right suppliers. Susan explains: “Our toolkits have been created in response to client demand and focus on developing an understanding of implications and considerations as well as offering advice on maximising

return on investment. It is a very useful resource to understanding the true implications of embarking on any diversification project.” For example with significant opportunities available for private hire in the golden circle of Gleneagles during the Ryder Cup, Estate Life’s Corporate Events toolkit has been well received by home owners. Susan commented: “With many years of expertise in preparing and marketing private hire properties we were well-placed to offer advice on all aspects of business, including creating a pricing structure and securing bookings. We have recently let Birkhill Castle and are working with Springkell to recoup a £2m investment in the historic property by developing a range of revenue streams as well as reducing costs.” Estate Life has also created a list of approved suppliers from wine and linen suppliers to energy efficiency experts to tax consultants, who have been vetted to ensure a high quality of service. Susan added: “Organisations such as Scottish Land & Estates recognise the need for a list of trusted and effective business partners. This service aims to

Susan Reid

provide a who’s who of the best in the industry who understand the specific needs of landowners and guardians of historic properties. The focus is to generate income and reduce costs and any SME

that can achieve this through sustainable processes. We have recommended numerous partner organisations that have added real value to our clients’ businesses.

Innovative youth project leads young people onto Scotland’s rural estates to reconnect with the land Twelve young people from urban backgrounds are to become the latest group to participate in an innovative youth project being run on some of Scotland’s best known rural estates. The teenagers, aged between 14 and 16, will spend a week enjoying wild camping on Douglas & Angus Estates in South Lanarkshire as part of a project called Imbewu Scotland where they will gain an appreciation of the jobs and people that make rural estates and our countryside tick. 72

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Imbewu Scotland is organised by registered charity Wilderness Foundation UK, funded by Scottish Natural Heritage and supported by landowners’ organisation, Scottish Land & Estates. The project is designed to benefit around 50 young people annually from schools, some of which lie in the lowest 15% of the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD), and introduce them to Scotland’s inspiring outdoors and provide a pathway to further education,

ESTATE

Attractive amenity estate in beautiful Stirlingshire

Working with CAP reform By Andrew Midgley Head of Policy at Scottish Land & Estates

An attractive small amenity estate with a single dwelling situated in a peaceful location near the popular village of Killearn to the north of Glasgow, has come on the market through leading Scottish property agents, CKD Galbraith. Little Moss Estate, which comprises a private dwelling house and some 224 acres of land, is available as a whole or in separate lots and offers an outstanding opportunity to acquire an exceptional property. The house, which requires modernisation, is an ideal chance for prospect buyers keen to put their own touch on the property. Dating back to 1980, Little Moss comprises of a unique original stone built on one level with 4 spacious bedrooms and a timber framed and glazed porch. Little Moss is situated in a convenient location with the village of Killearn benefiting from specialist shops, respected pubs and restaurants. Education is well catered for both at primary and secondary level and the property is located within the catchment area for the newly built and highly regarded Balfron High School.

Little Moss is available for sale as a whole or in 5 lots as follows: For the whole – offers over £ 565,000 Lot 1 – offers over £ 310,000. Comprises both Little Moss and about 2.70 HA (6.67 Acres) of land. Lot 2 – offers over £ 150,000. Comprises 52.16 Ha (128.88 Acres) of land predominantly situated to the south west of Little Moss. Mixed pasture ground and amenity woodland. Within Lot 2 there is an area of woodland known as Bog Wood extending to 25.62 Acres. Lot 3 – offers over £ 45,000. Comprises 15.79 Ha (39.01 Acres) of land, predominantly an area of pasture ground located to the north of the property known as Blanesswell. Lot 4 – offers over £ 45,000. Comprises 19.34 Ha (47.79 Acres) in total, predominantly an area of grazing ground and woodland and situated North West of the holding. Lot 5 – offers over £ 15,000. A small area of 1.02 Ha (2.5 Acres) in total. The area is currently unfenced and split in two by the private drive which leads to Ledlewan. For more information : www. ckdgalbraith.co.uk/

The Scottish farming industry has been seeking clarity on CAP reform for a considerable time and the future has now become a little clearer following the Scottish Government’s announcement. Richard Lochhead had some very difficult decisions to take in delivering a package that works for the whole industry, and our members are fully supportive of the Cabinet Secretary’s efforts to ensure that money only goes to active farmers and in doing so, prevent another slipper farmer issue. There are a number of measures in the package we support including the proposal to split the Rough Grazing region which is a way of ensuring that large amounts of public money is not transferred to the poorest land. Coupled support, especially on sheep, could introduce its own administrative issues, but it does at least focus support on active farmers. We are concerned, however, about the degree of separation that is being made between estate owners and farmers. On the proposal to put ‘sporting estates’ on the negative list, thereby excluding them from support, we will seek clarification about what the government is actually suggesting. We support the idea that

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those people who are not farming should not receive support, but many estates are actually integrated businesses running farming and sporting enterprises in parallel and it will be very important to avoid excluding legitimate farming activity from support simply because it is associated with wider sporting activity. The proposal to limit the area claimed to 2013 is, we believe, misplaced in that it is portrayed as an antilandowner measure to stop landowners manipulating tenancies for ‘unfair gain’. We believe that this focus could adversely affect various types of farm businesses that have already legitimately changed their business arrangements. The overwhelming majority of our members are farmers themselves and it is important to them that they are recognised as working in farming on a daily basis, and we remain committed to working with Scottish Government and stakeholders as they seek to iron out the detail of the proposals to make sure that the package of measures works for the whole industry. For more information www. scottishlandandestates.co.uk Telephone : 0131 653 5400 73

ESTATE Cherishing the rural nature of Scotland %\ .DWULQD &DQG\ How lucky we are to have such an amazing rural environment and it’s such a treat for the senses to take a walk in the countryside and witness the biodiversity that surrounds us. This landscape is here to be enjoyed by all and indeed more people should be experiencing our open spaces and learning about nature’s bounty and the factors which affect it. We at the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust have studied for decades the fragility of our wildlife and are extremely in tune with how vulnerable birds, mammals and insects are at particular times of year such as during the nesting, hatching and rearing season. Steps like keeping dogs on leads, avoiding walking, riding or cycling on rough, grassy areas and keeping to pathways are hugely beneficial and these simple measures prevent unnecessar y disturbance of species such as skylarks, dunnocks and grey partridges. Many farmers and land managers invest time and money into providing suitable habitats for wildlife and we can all play our part in protecting this wonderful resource. This is especially poignant if we consider the loss of our ancient flora and fauna over the past decades. The 74

destruction of biodiversity and loss of Britain’s patchwork quilt is well documented and it is now everyone’s duty to conserve and manage our natural heritage for future generations. Legislation and government incentives for farmers and land managers go some way in delivering biodiversity results but a wider understanding of the mechanics of the countryside by the public is what is needed if we, as a nation, are to embrace the needs of our countryside. Events such as the Royal Highland Show and our own Scottish Game Fair are accessible, enjoyable and successful events which offer a broad view of rural Scotland, those who live and work there and how they manage it. Now that the show season is almost past for 2014, I hope we have managed to fulfil some of our charitable objectives and promoted, for the public benefit, the conservation of game and its associated flora and fauna. If we have advanced the education of the public and those managing the countryside in the effects of farming and management of land which is sympathetic to game and other wildlife then we are taking steps in the right direction.

Landowners call for rent review talks to build cross-industry consensus

Scottish Land & Estates announced it has proposed cross-industry talks on rent reviews in an effort to get agreement on one of the most important issues for the tenant farming sector. The organisation said it had re-visited its position on rent reviews in view of ‘the weight of alternative opinion’ on the issue. It is now proposing crossindustry discussions which would consider the introduction of productive capacity of a farm as a factor in determining rent levels. Scottish Land & Estates has put forward the proposal in a second submission to the Agricultural Holdings Review Group. David Johnstone, Chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, said: “We supported the conclusions of the independent Rent Review Working Group and do not believe that the legislation, as amended, requires major overhauling. However, this issue continues to cause great concern to tenant farmers and we are committed to seeking cross-industr y agreement on key issues. “Scottish Land & Estates would therefore support moves to review section 13 with a view to looking at whether incorporating the productive capacity of the holding as a factor would improve the position and allay concerns about rent review procedures, but we would wish to ensure that comparable evidence (including adjusted LDT rents) is also retained. We also think it appropriate a review addresses investment by landlords in new fixed equipment.

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“While the concerns voiced after the Moonzie judgement about vastly inflated 1991 Act rents have not materialised, there appears to be a very real residual anxiety that the legislation now facilitates 1991 Act rents increasing to a rate which is beyond what is affordable for the unit. We remain of the view that this is not what the Moonzie judgement envisaged and this is coupled with the fact that it is not in a Landlord’s interests to seek a rent which would render the unit unviable. However, we acknowledge that there is now a perception that section 13, as interpreted in Moonzie, is a problem and this should therefore be addressed. “While Scottish Land & Estates is keen to find those areas where cross-industry agreement can be reached, our organisation is also keen that any changes to the current regime do not create new areas of friction between tenants and landowners. “We accept that most other stakeholders want to see a change and the introduction of greater weighting to the productive capacity of the holding. We are not anti-change and want to make sure that any changes do actually make things better. “To take this forward Scottish Land and Estates is keen to discuss the detail with NFUS and STFA. We would also want to include RICS in such dialogue as on many occasions it will be their members who will be conducting reviews and applying the legislation in practice.”

HORSE

Professor Knottenbelt New chairman of BHS Scotland By Melanie Scott

E>:=BG@ ^jnbg^ o^m Ikh_^llhk =^k^d Dghmm^g[^em aZl [^^g Ziihbgm^] ma^ g^p \aZbkfZg h_ ma^ ;kbmbla Ahkl^ Lh\b^mr !;AL" L\hmeZg] k^`bhgZe' Professor Knottenbelt took over from Mrs Loraine Young after seven years as chairman of BHS Scotland. During her tenure The Society grew in membership by a sixth, many top names visited Scotland including William Fox Pitt, Mark Todd, Jessica Kurten and William and Pippa Funnell. The BHS became known as Scotland largest and friendliest equine membership organisation. Derek qualified from Edinburgh University in 1970 and after a four-year spell in his native Zimbabwe working in the State Veterinary Service as a research officer, he moved into private practice in the UK where he stayed for 12 years. During this time he developed an interest in equine medicine and in 1985 he turned to the academic world first in Zimbabwe and from 1989 at Liverpool. Derek's expertise in equine internal medicine is recognised both nationally and internationally, particularly in equine oncology and dermatology. He is a Diplomate of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine and holds a personal Chair in Equine Medicine at the University of Liverpool. He has published widely in journals and textbooks and is frequently invited to speak at national and international meetings. He received the Animal Health Trust Scientific Award in 2003, the BEVA (Blue Cross) Welfare Award in 2004 and the OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours of 2005 for his services to equine medicine. He is actively involved in many domestic and international

(L-R) BHS Scotland development officer Helene Mauchlen, with retiring chairman Loraine Young and new chairman Professor Derek Knottenbelt

charities relating to equine welfare and works tirelessly to support these causes. Professor Knottenbelt is part of Vets with Horsepower (VwHP) who are taking to the road next month (July) to raises awareness and vital funds for equine and human charities overseas. Describing themselves as a ‘group of motorbiking senior level vets who go on tour delivering high level CPD for charity’, they have raised more than £280,000 since their first tour in 2010. The two deserving charities that have been chosen to benefit this year are the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust and The Smile Train, an organisation that provides free cleft palate surgery to children in developing countries. The tour will see the vets riding through Germany, Poland,

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to St Petersburg in Russia, and returning via Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark. The journey will cover about 2,700 miles in 16 days; and in addition to the mileage, they are giving eight five-hour CPD sessions along the way. The concept for VwHP was devised originally in 2010 by Professor Knottenbelt to raise funds in order to save the Riding for Disabled Centre in Mali that SPANA ran in conjunction with another partner who was looking to pull their support. The future looked bleak for the Centre, but VwHP raised enough money on its first tour to secure its future. Since then VwHP have undertaken two further tours and raised funds in excess of £280,000. The major benefactor has been SPANA,

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supporting their efforts to help working equines in some of the poorest countries in the world - and by helping the animals, helping the families that are so dependent on them. “The support that the VwHP team is providing to the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust will bring benefits that change human and animal lives for the better,” said Professor Knottenbelt. “We do not judge and we do not criticise – we simply want to help the most disadvantaged people and animals in the world. Our strapline is 'getting together for good'. We want to relieve human burden through improved working animal welfare.” Professor Derek Knottenbelt has also acquired a new BMW motorbike in preparation for the tour. 75

HORSE

Timothy Foxx renew their relationship with top eventer

Tweed fashion designers Timothy Foxx are delighted to announce that they have renewed their contract with top eventing name Gemma Tattersall. The brand have long been associated with riders across all disciplines including young eventer Harriet Upton, but Gemma remains the brand’s first 4* level rider. “We are thrilled to continue to be associated with Gemma,

not only is she a super talented rider with a great reputation, but she looks fantastic in our clothes” The relationship continues to see the international event rider wearing Timothy Foxx at high profile events in the trotup including Badminton, where Gemma was seen wearing the brand’s new Catherine Jacket in Duchess Tweed (See picture). ppp'mbfhmar_hqq'\h'nd

From rescue centre to celebrity lifestyle and back again (but still a celebrity!) Meet Baron, the famous Clydesdale. Glasgow City Council, which rehomed World Horse Welfare Baron, is supporting this year’s Rehome a Horse Month. Baron. That’s it, that’s really all you need to mention in Scotland, and they know who you’re talking about. It’s him, the rescue horse that rose to the stars, literally. Typically tall Clydesdale, Baron, came into World Horse Welfare’s Rescue and Rehoming Centre, Belwade Farm in Aboyne, after the heavy horse charity that were caring for him closed down in 2000. He was only two, but World Horse Welfare could already see he had bags of potential. Six months later, the big bay boy – now standing at 18.hh and weighing a whopping 894 kilos – was rehomed by Glasgow City Council. When he was mature enough he was trained to pull the traditional dray at Pollok Country Park. After 14 years of providing local school groups, nurseries, children with special needs and many tourists with fun-filled but gentle rides, Baron has decided that it’s time to park the wheels and put up his hooves. He returns to World Horse Welfare this 76

June 7th at the annual – and increasingly popular – Belwade Farm Fun Day, in Aboyne. Lorraine Clark, Head Carter at Pollok Country Park, has been with Baron from the very beginning and tells us she’s ‘absolutely gutted’ that it’s time to part from ‘her boy’. She says: “I knew he’d had enough at one of the last shows we went to. Normally he loves being a part of the buzz, but this time I could tell his heart wasn’t in it. It’s as if he was saying: ‘No thanks Lorraine, I’m about done in this job. Next.’ I completely understood his message, because I know him so well, and I knew, it was time for him to retire from his public role.” His experiences have not been without success – from winning countless competitions at weekend galas including Reserve Champion Gelding In-hand at the Royal Highland Show, to becoming the focus of a giant horse sculpture in Falkirk known as ‘The Kelpies’, standing 100fthigh as part of £40m+ project. Lorraine and Baron are the closest pair at Pollok Park: “I’m with him all day every day, from mucking him out and giving him a good clean to driving and riding him. He’s the horse I like the most. We’ve been through

everything together – I backed and trained him when he arrived and we’ve been inseparable ever since. "I’m really going to miss my number one boy.” Just like every best friend pair, they’re armed with embarrassing stories to tell: “One time, I was working with Baron and we were intending to cross a bridge at the park. He wasn’t sure about it, but I assumed it was fine. We both went bumbling onto the bridge, and out of nowhere, his whopping great foot broke the bridge!” The park subsequently named the bridge after Baron, calling it the Baron Bridge. "It’s doubtful that people will ever forget him, he’s a local celebrity. He’s known and loved by everyone around here for his gentle, willing and patient nature. There’s currently signage all over the park to let the kids know the date of Baron’s last day here – they’d be gutted if they missed their chance to say goodbye to him.”

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Baron’s days pulling the country park’s cart singly, in pairs, in tandem and unicorn as ‘wheel horse’ (at the back of the cart due to his strength) as well as being the star of static events due to his sensible nature, are now coming to an end. Make sure the Belwade Farm Fun Day is a date in your diary so that you can meet Baron upon his return. Keep an eye on the horses who are looking for homes because after Baron has been assessed, he may well be up for rehoming! The event runs from 10.30am to 4pm on Saturday 7th June in Aboyne, with the first exciting demonstrations starting at 11am. Attractions include a craft fair, a fun fair and a musical display ride. There will be a variety of displays, including a police horse demonstration, a working dog demonstration, and a horse agility competition for Belwade's equine residents. As well as all of the above, there will of course be plenty of refreshments and lots more fun,

HORSE

games and activities for all the family. Keep an eye on the incredible horses up for rehoming on the charity’s website, every single horse is unique and, as you can see for yourselves, often have the most wonderful talents: www.worldhorsewelfare.org/ rehoming/ About World Horse Welfare: Oblbm hnk p^[lbm^ a^k^3 ppp' phke]ahkl^p^e_Zk^'hk`(Ahf^ World Horse Welfare (Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384), is an international horse charity that improves the lives of horses in the UK and worldwide through education, campaigning and hands-on care of horses. Since we were founded in 1927, our whole approach has been practical, based on scientific evidence and our extensive experience, and focused on delivering lasting change across the full spectrum of the horse world.

Baron the horse

In the UK our dedicated network of Field Officers investigate and resolve welfare problems, and we run four Rescue and Rehoming Centres where horses in need can receive specialist care, undergo rehabilitation and find loving new homes through our rehoming scheme – the largest of its kind in the UK. Our international training programmes alleviate the suffering of thousands of working horses by providing essential knowledge for horse owning communities in the developing world. We also work tirelessly to change legislation and attitudes to horse welfare through campaigns and education, including our founding campaign to end the suffering endured by the tens of thousands of horses transported long-distance across Europe to slaughter each year. We support the responsible use of horses in sport, and are independent welfare advisers to the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and British Horseracing Authority.

EQUINE ANGLE Off road riding… By Melanie Scott

At this time of year many fields are now showing signs of ragwort growing. Its bright yellow flowers are a good indication of the danger it can cause to all grazing animals, including horses, and is estimated to cause around 50 deaths a year through liver poisoning. Take action. If ragwort in your area is causing concern, please report it to SGRPID and they will remind the land owner to control ragwort. Include as much information as possible, including address of affected land, postcode and, if possible, ordnance survey co-ordinates. A good way to work out co-ordinates is to use www. streetmap.co.uk. Once you have identified your location on the map, click once to get the arrow to point to the area of ground where ragwort is growing. Then scroll down the page to where it says "This product includes mapping data copyright" and click on "click HERE" to measure coordinates. Then all you need to do is write down the OS reference and the postcode of the infestation. Scotland’s horse riders are lucky that there’s lots of off road and multi-use tracks to avail themselves of, but they are in danger of being

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limited access on some routes because of some rider’s thoughtless actions. Since the land reform act was introduced in Scotland in 2003 there’s more areas opened up for riders to use. An example near where I live is a multi-use path, known locally as the ‘cycle track’ as until the land reform act was launched horses were prohibited for accessing it. The multi-use track is owned by Sustrans and connects two towns; it is used by many people on a daily basis, cyclists, walkers, joggers and horse riders. However other users are becoming frustrated by the amount of horse droppings being left along this route. I’ve seen prams, wheelchairs and also myself on a bike weaving through a trail that appears like the horse has wandered aimlessly from one side to the other. It’s not nice for any of the users of the route and as a horse rider and cyclist I am amazed at the arrogant and reckless attitude of local riders who refuse to move their horse or make any effort to clear it away. Sadly a small minority are to blame but they may be responsible if the local authority refuses access to horse owners. 77

COUNTRY WOMAN All change at the Scottish Fat Stock Club under new secretary Lesley-Anne Harrison Having grown up on the family farm and been part of a family which has always been involved in the cattle showing circuit, 31 year old Lesley-Anne Harrison is well equipped to run the new LiveScot event, the successor to the Scottish National Winter Fair. The daughter of David and Pat Blair, Littleinch, Balmerino, Fife, Lesley-Anne is no stranger to the event, having previously shown cattle there for a number of years. Before marrying her partner Graham and having their three children Caitlin, Finlay and Cameron, now ages seven, five and four

Lesley-Ann Harrison

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COUNTRY WOMAN respectively, she worked as the Exams Secretary at St Andrews University. Despite having a young family, Lesley-Anne has always continued doing part time work, making her ability to multi task a useful aid in her recent appointment. In May 2013 she joined the club as the Event Organiser for The Winter Fair, to work alongside Fiona Sloan, who was the Secretary at that time. “The most satisfying part of the 2013 event,” says Lesley-Anne, “was seeing it come together on the day and everyone enjoying themselves.” With the resignation of the previous secretary to concentrate on other work commitments, Lesley-Anne was the obvious choice to take over the helm of The Scottish National Fat Stock Club, one of the oldest farming organisations in the country, having celebrated its centenary in 2001 and with a year under her belt on the Winter Fair side of things, it was hoped that the foundation was already there to allow the event to develop further at Ingliston. However, following a change in policy at the Royal Highland Agricultural Society, who transferred their support of the event to youth development, the new Secretary, who was now taking on both roles in a part time capacity, found herself in a situation where she was starting to run a new event from scratch again having lost its traditional home at the Royal Highland Exhibition Centre in Edinburgh Following extensive discussions on various options it was decided that the event would move to the Lanark Agricultural Centre. The premises and accessibility lends itself to an event such as this and with the new

location, came a new name, “LiveScot”. Having now taken on this joint role, Lesley-Anne is not only organising the LiveScot event but also the ever popular Premier Meat Exhibition, run in conjunction with Scotbeef and Marks & Spencer and the Native Pony Show, both parts of the Fat Stock Club activities which she had not been previously involved in. Unperturbed and with the assistance of an active committee and the team at Lanark, she has drawn up the plans for the 2014 shows and LiveScot is beginning to take shape. “I’m really looking forward to LiveScot at Lanark and the Fatstock Committee and everyone at Lanark Auction Mart have been working closely together to continue with the success of the Winter Fair in 2013.” Says Lesley-Anne. “ We are continuing with the additions to last year’s event, with the Scottish Beltex Club once again holding their Female Sale with us, the crafts and bakery section will doubtless, again prove popular and we are currently working on a new event for younger breeders, which I hope we will be able to announce soon.” Being Secretary of the SNFC is not for the faint hearted but with her background in the industry, her showing experience at local and national level and the administrative skills to deal with such a diverse number of activities, Lesley-Anne Harrison will undoubtedly take LiveScot forward in the same positive way as she worked on the previous Winter Fair and the farming fraternity can look forward to a very interesting and exciting day out at Lanark Agricultural Centre on Saturday 29th November

Southern Belle THOU SHALT NOT… Those of us who grew up in Sunday school, lived happily under the misapprehension that there are Ten Commandments. However, for those of us who progressed further through the ranks of the Church of Scotland to reach the heady heights of Church Flower rota, there is a sudden realisation that there are in fact eleven Commandments. The unwritten one being “Thou shalt not forget to do the church flowers otherwise thy name shalt be mud forever and ever!” Breaking the sacred oath to ensure that there are fresh and well-arranged flowers in place prior to Sunday service, involves a verbal public flogging, and at least two phone calls from the Flower Calendar organiser as a reminder thereafter, with explicit instructions on the dates. Having missed my turn two years ago I expected and received the obligatory phone calls and instructions including the fact that communion had been moved a week later. A point which seemed particularly irrelevant to the rest of the conversation. Bright and early Saturday morning I set of with my dog, pony and bin liner to exercise the pets and collect the debris from the previous week’s flowers before returning later to

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do my arrangement. As I turned the pony loose in the graveyard to help” tidy the grass”, my trusty collie, who incidentally attends church with me every Sunday and collects tit bits from several of the congregation prior to falling asleep at my feet during the service (lucky dog) headed for the church. As we walked down the church path, I came across our 85 year old interim moderator (stand in minister) trying to get in the door of the church. Realising that neither of us have the key, I darted back to the manse to get it and chat away to him as we enter the church, thinking…. I didn’t realise ministers did a dress rehearsal on the day before? Anyway, we walked in to discover… shock horror…someone had already removed the old flowers; how odd. As the conversation continued we discovered that he wasn’t rehearsing but was a day early for the service and was concerned that no one had turned up to hear him. Bless! And while I was joking with him about getting his days of the week mixed up the flower calendar police appeared with a mass of roses looking confused at both our presences’ as my flowers weren’t due till the following week as I always do Communion apparently! So help me God! 79

COUNTRY WOMAN Brides and Hay Bales

With the recent launch of the Byre at Inchyra, and similar rural locations beginning to pop up around the country, many couples are now choosing to abandon the traditional “church and hotel” and opt instead for a venue that gives them an opportunity to stamp originality onto their Big Day. The Byre at Inchyra was built in 1877 as a cattle steading and like many agricultural buildings in Scotland it had become inadequate for today's farming requirements. In 2012, James and Caroline, the current owners, cleared piles of rubbish and old machinery to make way for a family celebration. The result was outstanding, and following a major refurbishment The Byre is now taking bookings for weddings and events. Scottish bridal expert, Jolene Taylor of Apple Blossom Time Bridal Studio in Perth has noted a rise in this type of wedding and has helped many brides plan their wedding dress and bridal 80

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party around a Big Day in a rural location or marquee. Jolene tells us, “Our brides still choose to have a proper wedding dress but they want something that suit their location and surroundings.” As well as running her own Bridal Studio Jolene also styles photoshoots and we were chuffed to bits with these great shots she set up in Inchyra Barn. “You can see we’ve gone for two different designs to showcase how you can tie your dress into your surroundings without losing your own sense of style. Both of these are really different and yet they look equally stunning against the rural backdrop.” Dress One is a shorter ballerina length. This is a great length for brides who will spend a lot of time outdoors as it is clear of the ground and really easy to move in. We’ve teamed it with big rustic floral headdresses and I think the result is romantic with a modern hipster edge. Dress Two offers a twenties look and gives an air of a timeless classic. This is a stunning, glamorous style and is set off perfectly with the marabou stole – which is ideal as the cooler air settles in the evening. This works really well in country locations as you can see! All Dresses are from Apple Blossom Time Bridal Studio in Perth – visit their website at www.appleblossomtime.com Eh\Zmbhg & Ma^ ;rk^ Zm Bg\arkZ' Iahmh`kZia^k% FZkd P^bk Zg] CZfb^ Ahnl]^g' AZbk Lmreblm3 @Zr^ MZrehk _khf AZbkshg^' FZd^ Ni :kmblm3 Lnlb^ ;ehb\^ h_ <hfie^qbhgl' Fh]^el3 Khlb^ F\D^gsb^ Zg] EZnk^g Bg`ebl _khf Lni^kbhk Fh]^e FZgZ`^f^gm' Lmreblm Zg] ]k^ll^l3 Che^g^ MZrehk _khf :iie^ ;ehllhf Mbf^' ammi3(( Ziie^[ehllhfmbf^'\hf

COUNTRY WOMAN

Rural life on the canvas

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As the summer unfolds, life is hectic on most farms. Logie Durno in Aberdeenshire is certainly no exception but in some of the more peaceful moments, artist, Carole Ingram finds time to dust off her brushes and paint. Having had no formal art training, she would use the term “artist”, loosely. Probably thinking of herself as a farmer first. However it is often that love of animals and desire to capture their likeness and personality that inspires her to paint. She has a small selection of prints available but commissions are her main focus, using photographs for reference. These commissions have varied from prizewinning Texels to

a Limousin bull painted on a kist, an Andalusian stallion, pet dogs and cats and more recently some children too. Farming life is nothing new for Carole, having grown up on a dairy farm. She confesses to taking a little while to “convert” to sheep but now admits to being a bit of a sheepaholic. Most of her summer is taken up with preparations for the summer shows and an on-farm Ram sale in August where the Ingram family will welcome around 150 visitors to the farm. Perhaps with all this activity, some quiet painting time is just what the farmer ordered! www.caroleingram.co.uk

5XUDO 6W\OH By Helen Burness

Everything’s coming up Rosa Red! They say that in Spring a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of love, well, in Summer, a young woman’s fancy turns to thoughts of fashion jewellery !This summer Rosa Red embraces all things outdoors. With tree, flower and butterfly motifs their collection is a triumph of colour and style. Rosa Red designs and produces fashion jewellery which instantly adds a touch of glamour to any outfit. With matching necklaces, bracelets and earrings, Rosa Red’s designs are distinctive, glamorous but most importantly, wearable. The fact that they are all highly affordable means that they won’t break the bank. With RRPs starting at £20 for necklaces, £16 for bracelets and £8 for earrings, wearers can look and feel glamorous happy in the knowledge that they have not spent a small fortune. This summer the colours of nature can be seen in the beautiful greens, blues, teals, pinks and purples, mirroring the colour of mainstream fashion. The new ‘Meribel’ design is inspired by silver trees, ‘Folia’ is a simple, effective leaf, while ‘Troon’ is a flutter of butterflies in a summery turquoise and silver. Rosa Red also recently launched its Adam and Eve Summer Collections which have been designed by young Scottish designers. Many of these new designs are simpler and finer than the main collection, such as Arran with its simple silver bows or Jura, a single heart. All Rosa Red jewellery can be purchased online at www. rosared.co.uk or at shops around Scotland. Exclusive to the online range is the new Pink Label which is a small collection of vintage-inspired designs and statement pieces. Targeted at the younger wearer this new Collection provides a quirky, colourful look. All Rosa Red jewellery is handmade, hand painted and hand polished for a better quality finish and is nickel free. Glamour you can afford for summer! KhlZ K^] ppp'khlZk^]'\h'nd

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21/,1( 6$99< RESPONSIVE WEB DESIGN…THE RESPONSIBLE OPTION

$*5, *$'*(76 John Deere Remote Display Access now activated

by Allan Bewley & Fiona Sloan Pedigree Farmer Web Design How many times a day do you use your mobile phone to find directions, Google a question, Tweet, check Facebook…I’m guessing if you are like most farmers; quite a bit! It has been reported this year that mobile internet usage has overtaken PC usage. This means that more people are relying on their mobile phone than their office computer, not only in farming but everywhere. With constant innovations on mobile and tablet technology from the likes of Apple and Samsung, there is a need to ensure that your business keeps up with the changes in order to be as efficient as possible. Farming has recently been highlighted as one of the most technological industries in the UK. Some people on the outside of our industry might find this hard to believe but with the likes of robotic milking, GPS sowing and embryo transfer, it is not hard to see why farming has moved ahead of other industries in the 21st Century. Websites have become an integral part of that business with everyone using search engines to find anything from a tractor valve to bull semen. Gone are the days when your web page simply got

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smaller to fit the device it was being viewed on, until you needed glasses or 20 20 vision to see it. The introduction of responsive web sites is the web designer’s answer to tiny screens on mobile phones and the alternative to having two websites; one which is designed to be seen on a PC and another for a mobile phone. Responsive web design means that your website is built in such a way, that it can be viewed on any screen and instead on just scaling down as the screen gets smaller, it actually changes to allow the browser to view your site in a different design, which alters automatically from desktop to any size of mobile device. This means that potential customers looking for a pedigree bull for example, can look at their mobile phone in the field or tractor and see a full screen picture of your bull, its pedigree, it’s EBVs and any other information you have added, but simply scrolling down and without having to go to the office to view it on the computer. Responsive web design is a must for any farmer who has something to sell….that’ll be ALL farmers!

John Deere’s Remote Display Access (RDA) system has now been fully activated in Western and Central European countries and selected CIS markets, as part of the John Deere FarmSight strategy. Awarded a SIMA 2013 silver medal for innovation, RDA enables the dealer to remotely view the GreenStar 3 2630 display and the Generation 4 CommandCentre in the cab of a tractor, combine or forage harvester and, if necessary, advise the operator on how to optimise machine and implement settings. “The full-scale availability of RDA is a significant step forward on the journey to expand our range of John Deere FarmSight solutions,” says Christoph Wigger, vicepresident sales & marketing

for John Deere’s Europe, North Africa and CIS region. “Wireless connectivity between the operator in the field and the dealer results in significant time and input savings and leads to increased machine uptime.” RDA is an integral part of the JDLink telematics fleet management system, which uses the machine’s integrated CAN-bus to view key performance data. For example, JDLink reports and customer recommendations are available to analyse machine use, working hours and average engine load. This enables the dealer to suggest that the customer should keep an eye on idle machine time, consider increased use of guidance systems and eventually adopt a more fuel efficient driving habit.

=PZP[ FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE UL^ ^LIZP[L www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com Farming News – Commodity Prices – Weather Outlook Agri Pages Online Directory – Magazine Archives And so much more…

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FINANCE

Farm business incomes will become dictated by market forces, warns HSBC

The success of farm businesses will become more dependent on cost control and the commercial market place as the reliance on subsidiaries diminishes, HSBC’s Head of Agriculture Allan Wilkinson has warned. He wrote: “Agriculture now depends on the market place and not just on the Brussels subsidy cheque and the importance of the market place will increase. Many family-run farm businesses will continue to rely on the wider industry to represent their interests in front of their immediate buyer. This will require producer collaboration to a greater extent than we have witnessed so far. It will also require coordination and representation which will eclipse the combined effort recently expended in the debate over CAP Reform – certainly with a far more productive result. “This should come as no surprise as the commercial activity of farming begins to grow at the expense of subsidy based revenue. This strategy will also assist the sector to realise its true value and to manage the acceptance of new technologies to allow the industry to compete on a level playing field with the largest agricultural economies globally.” Wilkinson also flagged the wide gap between the best and worst performing farm businesses, highlighting the benefits of those businesses that combine prudent cost management with excellence in technical output to maximise yields. Taking the

Pulse 2014 includes an update on HSBC’s budgeting Forward Planning booklet, which takes into account current market forces and offers an insight into the performance of the best and worst performing farms against HSBC’s 2014 forecasts. Based on an example 650ha mixed crop farm, including wheat, beans, barley and oilseed rape, Taking the Pulse 2014 forecasts a 10.6% fall in farm income surplus after support payments, against a 35% increase for the best performing farm businesses. Wilkinson said: “Yield is still the biggest driver of improved performance, providing the cost base is contained. In the high potential forecast, the wheat crop still has a total cost of production of under £125/t, whereas in the low potential case costs for the same crop have climbed to £145/t. Wheat is still the biggest contributor to bottom line. “Secondly rotations with OSR in short rotation are potentially less cash generative than those with a range of crops spreading both the cost of production, and the use of machinery across establishment and other peak workloads. “Thirdly, those businesses with high overhead costs can return respectable margins providing that yield is equally commensurate, though they have no room for average performance. Those businesses who can trim cost to a lower yield potential by judicious use of inputs can still limit potential cash flow impact.

THEMONEYMAN

Time for a fix...? By Andrew Turnbull We are regularly treated to the thoughts of the hierarchy at the Bank of England (and the pundits in the Sunday papers) on the prospect of interest rates rising at some time relatively soon. So is it time to think about hedging your bets and placing some of your long term borrowings on a fixed rate to guard against the prospect of upward movements in base rate? Most commentators seem to expect a very cautious approach to raising rates in order to prevent the still delicate economy from slipping back into recession and they do not envisage more than gentle rises of around 0.25% at a go, spread over a number of years. This would hardly suggest it was time to rush to fix rates just yet. However, most readers of Farming Scotland are, by definition, bound to wonder what will happen in the event of a "Yes" vote in the forthcoming independence referendum. The Bank of England (ironically founded by a Scot) only controls the base rate for sterling but can anyone be certain that our monetary currency north of the Border will be based on the pound after September? Or will we be forced to negotiate with Brussels on the euro if there is a "Yes" vote and if London remains stubborn? Then there

are those who see a return to the old Pound Scots - hopefully the exchange rate on the new version will be more beneficial to us than the last time we had our own currency! Presumably, those who are currently borrowed in sterling will continue to make repayments of capital and interest charges in sterling but if our base currency is in euros (or anything else) the rate of exchange will come into play and will cloud the "variable or fixed" debate. "Fixing" an interest rate is like taking out an insurance policy but many farmers (and others) are still smarting from the costs of having fixed rates way back before the collapse of the banking systems in 2008. Not only did rates go against them subsequently but there were heavy penalties in some cases for unravelling the "fix". Incidentally, it is worth reminding those repaying HP instalments that the vast majority of these agreements will have been on a fixed interest basis and so will be sheltered from any rise in base rates. Nothing in this article is intended to be making a political point one way or another but the imponderables surrounding interest rate changes are even more pronounced for us north of the Border right now.

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MACHINERY 60th Anniversary with Polaris Ranger Limited Editions

Polaris is celebrating 60 years of manufacturing with the introduction of four Ranger Limited Edition models for 2014. The Rangers made their first public appearance at the Clay Pigeon Shooting World English

Sporting Championships from the 28th April to 4th May at E.J. Churchill, the renowned and award-winning shooting ground on the West Wycombe Estate in Buckinghamshire. The Limited Edition machines feature

an upgrade to Sixr 14” flat black aluminium wheels with ITP Mud Lite XTR tyres, a Premium Cab and front winch, available as the Ranger 400 Limited Edition and Ranger Diesel Limited Edition. The windshield is glass with venting and the roof and rear panel are steel on the Ranger 400, while the Diesel features a fixed glass windshield and the roof and rear panel in pro-steel. Both machines have a wiper kit. In addition to these special features, the other two models, both the Ranger 400 Shoot Limited Edition and Ranger Diesel Shoot Limited Edition, are also fitted with Gun Scabbard Mounts and Gun Scabbards ready for shooting outings. Polaris Rangers feature on-demand all wheel driving, legendary ride and handling with Independent Rear Suspension, which is fully adjustable with high ground

clearance. Superior ergonomics, fuel efficiency, massive towing capabilities and large dump box facilities with the Lock & Ride cargo system set the Rangers apart and the Limited Edition models add the extra touches to these highly popular UTVs. The launch and celebration of the Polaris 60-year anniversary at the World Championships and E.J. Churchill is complemented by the use of the shooting grounds’ own Polaris Rangers. Their Ranger Diesel and Diesel Crew being fully employed in the huge logistical challenge of moving large volumes of people and equipment around the estate, not to mention the distribution of a quarter of a million clays among the shooters. E.J. Churchill can be contacted on 01494 883227 www.ejchurchill.com and Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

New Holland launches upgraded T4 PowerStar™ series

New Holland has significantly upgraded the T4 PowerStar™ series, which is the first in Europe to feature PM Cat (Particulate Matter Catalyst) technology for Tier 4B compliance. Showcased for the first time in Europe at Cereals 2014, it also benefits from Common Rail technology for lower fuel consumption and improved operating productivity and efficiency. “The T4.55-65-75 PowerStar range is a hit amongst livestock and small scale farmers.” Stated Luca Mainardi, Head of Tractor and Precision 84

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Land Management Product Management. “Its ease of use and segment leading comfort is perfectly complemented by up to 13% fuel savings and state-of-the-art and exclusive PM Cat technology for Tier 4B compliance.” The T4 PowerStar series is powered by a 3.4 litre, Common Rail F5C engine with PM Cat technology for Tier 4B compliance. Developed by New Holland’s sister company, FPT Industrial, the PM Cat is located in the exhaust system downstream of the diesel oxidisation catalyst.

MACHINERY

Trelleborg Launches New Forestry Tyre Size to Enhance its Forestry Tyre Offering

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Trelleborg presents a new size in its T418 line of forestry tyres specifically designed for log skidding service. With maximum cut and tear resistance, the line provides longer tyre life under the most severe operating conditions, incorporating steel armored plies to protect tyre casings against stumps, boulders and rocks. With release of the 30.5L32 26 PR size in Trelleborg’s T418 range, five sizes are now available including 23.1-26 16PR – 28L26 20PR – 24.5-32 16PR – 30.5L32 20 and 26 PR. Continuing the development of the range, more will be added in the future. Lars Eriksson, Product Manager Forestry Tyres at Trelleborg Wheel Systems, says: "We are investing heavily in developing our range of forestry tyres, upgrading the load capacity of the existing range and are also introducing new products. Our focus is on maximum customer benefit in terms of the optimal balance between important tyre properties, such as durability, service life and traction, with

consistent ground care and comfort. "Development of our product range is based largely on the continuous contact we have with customers and manufacturers. Trelleborg's strong customer focus requires investment in a global presence. This means that we can enjoy closer contact with our customers and can offer them complete solutions, with tyres, rims and tubes adapted for forestry use.” Together with the T418 line, designed for full tree operations, Trelleborg also offers the Twin Forestry T422 and T428 designed for CTL (Cut to Length) operations and the T410 Agro Forest, a strong R-1W bias line ideal for tractors used both in forestry and in difficult field conditions. In addition, Trelleborg offers forestry tyre rims capable of coping with extreme working conditions and inner tubes specially developed for forestry use. ?bg] hnm fhk^ hg Mk^ee^[hk` ?hk^lmkr mrk^l [r oblbmbg` mk^ee^[hk`'\hf( pa^^elrlm^fl

Trelleborg Launches New Forestry Tyre Size to Enhance its Forestry Tyre Offering

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• High Performance • Rear Discharge • Grain and Silage Trailers Slurry Pumps Manure Spreaders • Shear Grabs • Slurry Tankers 7-15m3 1100-5500 gallons • Lagoon Pumps / Mixers

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Kuhn Farm Machinery has announced the availability of a mechanical-drive version of the EMC (Electronic Mass Control) system within the Axis twin disc fertiliser spreader range. This development makes advanced spreading technology previously only available on hydraulic-drive models more affordable. Initially only available on hydraulic drive spreaders from Kuhn, the EMC system is now launched in the UK on mechanical-drive (PTO-drive)

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Axis models. The main methodology for EMC is the constant measurement of mass flow (kg/ min) at the point of application, independently at each disc, allowing the machine to then adjust aperture size on the move to maintain a target application rate. This is achieved on mechanical drive machines by measuring the torsion in the drive shafts for each of the discs, with this measurement being correlated with mass flow to give the machine accurate

information about the amount of fertiliser being applied. Mechanical drive models (Axis M EMC) are typically priced approximately 20– 30% below the price of the equivalent hydraulic drive (Axis H EMC) models. Using the EMC system, Axis EMC fertiliser spreaders are constantly monitoring fertiliser flow (every second), enabling almost instantaneous adjustment of actuator/aperture positions to either side of the machine in response to changes in fertiliser flow-ability (as may be caused by a partial blockage for example). Similarly, as application rate is a function of forward speed, disc speed and working width, any changes to these parameters are managed by the machine’s information system to allow almost instantaneous adjustment on the move and the maintenance of the target application rate. The EMC system avoids the need for conventional static calibration testing, as the machine makes the adjustments

MACHINERY

automatically from simple preprogrammed data. As such, 100% of settings for the machine are carried out from inside the

tractor cab. EMC also offers the significant advantages over conventional weigh cell systems of providing information and

control in relation to each side of the machine independently and also maintaining accuracy in hilly conditions.

0% finance available on 4-metre tine and disc cultivator Kuhn Farm Machinery has announced details of its latest 0% finance deal which offers farmers and contractors the ideal opportunity to invest in a 4-metre tine and disc cultivator. The new finance offer applies to a range of cultivation machinery including the Performer 4000, Kuhn’s onepass tine and disc cultivator which features double rows of discs, four rows of tines, a row of levelling discs and a roller for fast and effective stubble cultivation. The finance scheme is available until the end of August 2014, with customers able to select from one of two offers: a 1 + 4 annual payments option or a 5 + 55 monthly payments option. In both cases, the offer 88

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provides 0% finance on 50% of the Performer 4000’s £66,094 retail price. This special scheme is also available on Kuhn’s Cultimer, Optimer, Discolander and Discover machines. A range of 0% finance offers are also available on a selection of Kuhn sprayers, hedgecutters, balers, ploughs, mixer wagons and fertiliser spreaders. Kuhn Finance is a partnership between Kuhn Farm Machinery and De Lage Landen, a fully owned subsidiary of Rabobank Group. Further details on Kuhn Finance are available by calling 0845 366KUHN or 0845 3665846, or by visiting the finance section at www.kuhn. co.uk

MACHINERY

Combine World celebrates 25 years in business

Combine world was established in 1989 as a joint venture between a group of leading combine dealers. Today, the Combine world network covers 14 dealers with 52 outlets between them, and has grown to become one of the world’s leading suppliers of high quality used combines. Over its 25 years in business, combine world has retailed nearly 10,000 machines with sales now in excess of £500 million. With up to 200 combines available at any one time of all colours, sizes and age it makes looking for a used combine a much simpler, risk free task. Such is the wide range of machines available, buyers have the option of everything from the latest 2013 specification LEXION 780TT at

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Foster's YHUNL VM OLH]` K\[` ROTARY SLASHERS HUK SUPER SCRUB CUTTERS HYL [OL PKLHS THJOPUL MVY [OL JSLHYHUJL VM NVYZL OLH[OLY IYHJRLU HUK Y\ZOLZ -YVT /7 [V /7 [OLYL PZ H THJOPUL [V Z\P[ `V\Y YLX\PYLTLU[Z

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GG2000 Super Scrubcutter fitted with cutting chains and rear deflector

For your nearest dealer contact us: Office Tel: 01482 868800 email: sales@fostersalescompany.co.uk website: www.fostersalescompany.co.uk 90

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MACHINERY £313,000 through to a 1982 DOMINATOR 96 at £9,800. Normally buying from a classified advert can be fraught with potential problems, both in the range and quality of machine offered. To overcome this and provide the buyer with confidence, each member dealer has to work to a strict set of rules governing the appraisal, storage, refurbishment and sale of used combines. Prior to being offered for sale by combine world,

each combine is subjected to a comprehensive 250 point dealer appraisal, this highlights any work that needs to be carried out on the machine prior to sale. Having been appraised, all machines over £20,000 are sold with a unique combine world warranty. ;nr^kl \Zg ob^p Zee fZ\abg^l \nkk^gmer ZoZbeZ[e^ obZ ma^ \hf[bg^ phke] p^[lbm^ ppp'\hf[bg^phke]' \h'nd

Keep it original – keep it Kverneland

In light of recent comments by some plough manufacturers and parts suppliers, Kverneland would like to make clear that it only manufactures and supplies plough parts for its own range of implements. “It is quite flattering to think that some of our competitors want to be associated with the Kverneland brand, however tenuous a link it may be,” says Kverneland parts marketing manager Richard Bennett. “But we would like to remind customers that our plough parts are manufactured at the Kverneland plough factory in Norway, exclusively for our ploughs.” “Nor do we buy from anyone else or manufacture plough parts for anyone else.” Kverneland uses its

own formulation of Sagitta steel along with specific heat treatment processes that remain a closely guarded secret. “Any company or supplier claiming to have access to our factory or our parts will be making false claims - the only way you can buy genuine Kverneland parts is to buy from the Kverneland dealer network,” he says. “This is how we keep our special heat treatment and metallurgy processes confidential.” Genuine parts give the correct balance between hardness and toughness, giving your Kverneland ploughs and cultivation equipment outstanding wear characteristics with points, shares, shins and mouldboards. “No supplier of nonwww.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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MACHINERY genuine spare parts in the UK has access to any of our individual metal production processes, or our raw materials,” he says. “Nor do they heat treat in quite the same way.” Mr Bennett warns that buying non-genuine plough parts means you are unlikely

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to get a 100% compatibility fit or an accurate shape. “Nongenuine parts are merely copies of our originals,” he adds. “When you buy genuine Kverneland plough parts, you can be sure that you’re buying the very best in wearing metal. Keep it original – keep it Kverneland.”

Grower demand leads Horstine to reintroduce its tma4 applicator

Blackgrass is back with a vengeance following two difficult seasons where poor autumn control has resulted in an increased demand for the pre-emergence herbicide Avadex Excel 15G and with it an accurate and safe application system. A drop in sales of Avadex Excel 15G in 2000 led Horstine – the manufacturer of the preferred application system at the time called the TMA4 – to cease production of its applicator. It is grower led demand for the applicator that has seen Horstine reintroduce an updated TMA4 fitted with

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several innovations including a new electronic control system to help improve the even and accurate application of granular Avadex. However, it is perhaps the fact that it can be attached to the three point linkage or trailer mounted that gives the new TMA4 increased grower flexibility. It can also be used behind a quad bike, mule or small tractor and can be supplied without booms for use on a set of rolls or a drill. Drive to a new high capacity fan is controlled hydraulically when tractor mounted and by the engine when mounted onto a trailer.

The standard TMA4 comes fitted with a 12m manually folding, strong and robust boom with eight specially designed outlets positioned at 1.5m spacings. As with all Horstine precision applicators, each outlet is fed by its own individual metering rotor, with no distribution heads or splitters required. This system guarantees an even spread pattern across the full working width of the machine. A 380 litre hopper allows users to cover up to 25 hectares between fills, with the hoppers contents easily visible thanks to the translucent polyethylene build. A Horstine Wizard Controller drives the metering unit which is ground speed related so application rate remains constant as forward speed changes. The new TMA4 requires no landwheel, with calibration now a simple automated process.

MACHINERY Online withfarmkit.com

farmkit.com launched in 2012 – the brainchild of Pete Rowbotham and Jon Holmes. Both had experienced frustrations buying and selling used farm machinery online. The guys wanted a nononsense, simple to use site, by “farmers for farmers” – like eBay but without all the toy tractors, cost and confusion. It was while talking about this in their local pub to friend and digital entrepreneur Rick Grundy that the idea for farmkit.com was born. Using Rick’s knowledge and his technology agency Techdept, work on their vision began. Less than two years later, farmkit.com is an established destination for anyone interested in farm equipment and machinery. The site

offers three main services; Classified Advertising; Weekly Auctions; and a “Kitfinder” service. There are currently over 5400 different pieces of kit on the site, updated daily, with a weekly email round up of “Pete’s Picks” being sent to around 10 thousand users. With no third party advertising and a streamlined user interface, farmkit.com provides a clear and welcoming user experience. While continuously improving and developing the site based on customer feedback, farmkit.com is also actively engaged with partners in the industry These partnerships are designed to benefit all parties by sharing the power of farmkit.com’s technology to boost user engagement and

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provide a standard platform for trading farm equipment. In the coming months we will be announcing the first of these partnerships and launching the associated sites. The company is active on social media, boasting over 13,000 Likes on its Facebook page – Our aim is to be a big part of the farming community. We know that the future of farming is high tech and connected, farmkit.com will continue to expand it’s offerings in line with this future. So why not check us out at www.farmkit.com? Private classified ads are just £1 per day and auctions are free to list with a very low 2.5% sale charge capped at £100. Dealer packages start at just £240 for a year."

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MACHINERY

The new John Deere 7310R tractor

Featuring a Stage IV compliant engine for the first time on a European John Deere tractor, the new 7310R model with e23 transmission made it’s debut in June. This top of the range 7R Series model produces 310hp at rated engine speed, and heads five other new, more powerful tractors from 210 to 290hp. For transport and pto applications, the engine’s intelligent power management (IPM) system provides an extra 30hp and is expected to deliver two per cent better fuel efficiency than previous units. John Deere Stage IV engines are the latest development in the company’s building block approach to meeting emissions regulations. As a final step, John Deere has added a selective catalytic

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reduction (SCR) system to its diesel-only engines and increased the fuel pressure to achieve more thorough combustion. Even with the addition of SCR, John Deere aims to reduce total fluid consumption to even lower levels than at present. The company continues to offer improved Stage III B compliant dieselonly engines on both the new 7R and 8R Series ranges for 2014. By late 2014 there will be a choice of AutoPowr or newly designed, fully automatic e23 transmissions across the whole model range, as well as a CommandQuad transmission on the two smallest models. AutoPowr’s ‘pedal mode’ enables the operator to change the ground speed while operating pto-driven equipment that demands constant engine rpm.

MACHINERY Triple-gang mower conditioner for maximum productivity

Kuhn Farm Machinery has introduced a new triple-gang mower conditioner to its line-up of grass machinery. The new machine – the Kuhn FC 9530 – utilises one frontmounted and two rear-mounted units to provide a working width of 9.1 to 9.5 metres. Each unit is mounted via a pendulum-type hydraulic articulation which enables vertical and angular adjustment of the mowing head for improved ground contouring, optimal cut quality and fast forward speeds. All three mowing units are also fitted with Kuhn’s Optidisc cutterbar, Fast-Fit cutting knives and Protectadrive safety bearings as standard, and are controlled via a simple cab-mounted panel

which enables each mowing unit to be lifted individually or simultaneously. Each conditioning unit features a rotor equipped with pivoting fingers which can be adjusted to suit different types and densities of forage. Rotor speed and conditioning intensity are also variable, with a rotor

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speed of 1,000 rpm typically used for grass, whilst a rotor speed of 750 rpm is better suited to more delicate crops. The slower speed can also be used to create an airy windrow or to ensure that the windrow from the front mower is positioned within the confines of the tractor’s wheel tracks.

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MACHINERY

New McCormick X7 series Tractors

The all-new McCormick X7 Pro Drive tractors made their Cereals Event debut having generated great interest amongst farmers as demonstration units arrived at dealers prior. The range represents an important shift in design, specification and technology for the marque, which is particularly evident in the new Premiere cab where modern electronic controls meet the expectations of drivers wanting fingertip operation of important functions. Two examples of imaginative design and engineering are the MySwitch multi-function button on the seat-mounted console and the fold-away passenger seat. The MySwitch button is used to perform any of four different

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Tel: 01651 851636 Fax: 01651 851880 www.murraymachinery.com 96

Leading suppliers of car, commercial and agricultural components All plough metals available NEW AGENTS FOR HOBBYWELD GAS RENT FREE CYLINDERS Contact Bob Torrie on 077383 20847 MOATHILL TRAILER HIRE and David Barn on 077744 03469 Queenswell Road, Forfar, Angus, DD8 3JA Tel. 01307 464914 13 Baltic Street, Montrose, DD10 8EX Tel. 01674 676260

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functions – transmission declutch, four-wheel drive, diff locks and auto powershift. Together with a simple ‘adjust and set’ system for occasional adjustments using a dial and instrument panel display, MySwitch helps keep the number of individual control switches, buttons and dials to a minimum.

MACHINERY “Many operators like previous McCormick tractors because of their relative simplicity and ease of control,” says Ray Spinks. “The X7 designers have achieved similar levels of simplicity while delivering modern electronic control and many more functions into the cab.”

The ingenious passenger seat is unique in the way it folds away out of sight, leaving a clear, smooth entry and exit for the cabin. The Premiere cab itself is a new design; the fourpillar structure is 180mm wider between the front pillars and the doors shut with a gentle push thanks to high-spec latches and adjustable hinges.

“The fit and finish, and the interior materials used are to automotive standards, with a seat-mounted console bringing all routinely used controls close to the driver,” points out product specialist Paul Wade. “The designers really have pulled out all the stops to make this a comfortable and practical place to work.”

Krone debut their new Forage Wagon Grassland 2014 was the debut event for a new addition to Krone UK’s forage wagon stable with the AX 310 GL/GD, designed to suit larger farms throughout the country. With a capacity of up to 31m³, Krone sees the AX as a valuable complement to its existing range of smallcapacity forage wagons. A key feature includes the forwardsloping chain-and-slat floor,

which is designed to reduce the distance through which the material flows from the rotor cutter into the wagon, leading to faster fills and lower input power (100hp+ tractor). Krone’s own research has shown an increased demand for more powerful, harder wearing and more fuel efficient rotor wagons than swing arm equivalents, such as the Titan 6. AX’s 760mm diameter feed-

and-cut rotor features six rows of tines that are welded to the rotor and plated with Hardox steel for excellent longevity. An efficient cut is achieved with 32 knives spaced 45mm apart. The 1,700mm cam-trackless and low-maintenance EasyFlow pick-up has five rows of tines and an 80mm travel to ensure smooth material ingestion of large and small swaths, especially in undulating fields.

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A practical detail is the knife bank which folds down and swings out to the side. The operator no longer has to walk around the machine to lock and unlock the bank on either side, because the unit is now controlled from the left machine side only. Here, the operator simply operates a lever that unlocks the bank and swings it out to the left for fast knife changes without tools.

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MACHINERY An articulated drawbar provides a 60cm ground clearance for safe clamping and without the pick-up pushing material. The drawbar hitches to hooks or pins as chosen by the customer. The bottom-mount K80 ball hitch is an option. Discharge rollers on the GD model features two standard rollers, with a third roller being available as an option. The octagonal and 470mm diameter rollers spin at different speeds when unloading material. With the bottom roller spinning faster than the top unit(s), crops flow smoothly through the rollers and without blockages. The gearbox that drives the discharge rollers is protected by the main clutch on the driveshaft, which translates into a higher torque and higher discharge rates. Krone’s PowerLoad autoloading system is an optional extra on AX models. PowerLoad

actively controls the loading process relative to the density of the compressed material, ensuring the wagon is always

filled to capacity. The system also helps inexperienced operators perform perfect loading jobs and utilize the

equipment to capacity, thereby reducing the number of hauls and the consumption rate per tonne of crop.

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98

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MACHINERY Weed Control Innovation

With the recent burst of sunshine and temperatures hotting up, weeds will be at the forefront of farmers’ minds. Northern Ireland manufacturer Quad-X and Blaney Agri can help you tackle weeds with their innovative ATV and tractor weed wipers. Grass quality and availability is the biggest contribution to livestock farms’ success and profitability, and so if you don’t control your weeds they result in lower farm productivity and less profitability. Quad-X and Blaney Agri have evolved the process of Weed Wiping. Their weed wipers utilising the unique weed sensor and dual roller system have become a popular alternative to boom spraying

thanks to massive savings on chemical and excellent weed kill results. In addition, by targeting only the weeds with herbicide, the crops or grass/ clover are left untouched and crop or grass growth rate is not affected. This UK manufacturer offer a unique range of wipers to cater for every application and budget. From 2.4m towed wipers to 5.7m tractor mounted models. The unique dual roller systems have been developed to give you maximum coverage and reduced chemical usage, saving you time and money. B_ rhn phne] ebd^ mh Ûg] hnm fhk^ Z[hnm ma^ JnZ]&Q hk ;eZg^r :`kb kZg`^% k^jn^lm Z [kh\ank^ hk =O=

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MACHINERY

Four rotor rake from Kuhn at grassland & muck

Kuhn Farm Machinery demonstrated a new four-rotor rake at this year’s Grassland & Muck event as it launched a number of new grass harvesting machines. The GA 13131 Gyrorake adds to Kuhn’s existing range of rakes and will be on display at Grassland & Muck alongside Kuhn’s semi-mounted GA 8713 and GA 9513 machines. The GA 13131 has a working width of 11.00 to 12.50 metres and is designed for use on farms where a high work output is required. The new Gyrorake features four rotors, each of which holds 11 tine arms, with four tines per arm. Each rotor is mounted on four pivoting, large diameter wheels for excellent ground contouring and high load

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bearing. The wheels sit close to the tines to further improve ground following, while Kuhn’s three dimensional rotor suspension system provides even greater stability when working at high speeds. Rotor working height can be adjusted hydraulically as standard, with all four rotors powered by Kuhn’s headstockmounted hydraulic drive unit which gives the option to increase front rotor speed by up to 20% when working in lighter crops. The four rotors work together to create one perfectly formed central windrow (from 150 to 240 cm in width) and are controlled via a cab-mounted VT50 series terminal which is ISOBUS compatible and which allows operating sequences to be pre-programmed for easy

u-turns. Each rotor can be lifted individually for a perfect finish and to give the machine high ground clearance for ease of manoeuvring and unhindered travel across uneven terrain. The GA 13131 is characteristically robust and utilises Kuhn’s Masterdrive

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GIII gearbox to reduce power transfer stresses and provide reliable service with low maintenance: the Masterdrive’s patented two-stage design uses bevel and spur gear reduction and is totally enclosed for minimal maintenance – service intervals are every 200 hours.

MACHINERY

FARM WATCH

Mitas developing special Powerpull tyre Raptor Persecution

Mitas signed a sponsorship agreement with the European Tractor Pulling Committee (ETPC) and has entered the dynamic world of tractorpulling. The agreement goes hand-in-hand with the development of the special Mitas Powerpull tyre. The construction of the first prototype of the new tractor-pulling tyre is based on a manufacturing process similar to that for Mitas’ high-

horsepower tractor tyres. This will guarantee endurance and durability. Mitas Powerpull will be available in 2014. “We are very confident in the successful development and launch of the new Powerpull tyre. Mitas can build upon its broad experience in manufacturing tyres for high-horsepower tractors,” said Andrew Mabin, Mitas’ marketing and sales director.

By PC Ross Buchan, Wildlife liaison officer, D Division Perth. Raptors are essentially birds of prey which hunt and feed on other birds and animals. They are characterised by keen eyesight, powerful talons and strong, generally hooked beaks. It is because of their evolved predatory nature that raptors face conservation concerns. In days gone by, raptors were seen as vermin and were actively poisoned, shot, caught in traps and had their nests destroyed in a bid to reduce numbers. The legal persecution of raptors continued until 1954 when it was outlawed by the introduction of the Protection of Birds Act. By this time a number of species had been completely eradicated from Scotland including the Osprey, White-tailed Eagle and red Kite. Fortunately a number of projects have successfully reintroduced some of these species back into the Scottish wilds, illegal raptor persecution continues to this day, with over 1300 confirmed victim in Scotland in the last 25 years. Investigating raptor persecution can be challenging as more often than not it occurs in a rural

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environment, well away from the beaten path and those responsible often conceal or destroy the carcasses of victims. Police Scotland has a number of Wildlife Liaison Officers who work in partnership with organisations including the SSPCA, The Scottish Raptor Study Group and The RSPB in tackling and making investigation into raptor persecution, however we rely on members of the public reporting cases of suspected raptor persecution I the first instance in order that early intervention can be made. If you come across a bird of prey which you think may have been killed by fowl play, leave it where it is and contact Police Scotland on 101. or pass the information on anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If you are unable to contact Police immediately, make a note of where the bird is, take a grid reference if possible and report the circumstances at the first opportunity. Reports can also be made to The RSPB and SSPCA. 101

/,)(67</(@home New Bedroom Chairs from Living It Up

Living It Up’s new hand-crafted and upholstered bedroom chairs are a must-have companion to any bedroom set. With a range of styles from classic to contemporary, and available in a range of upholstering’s, you are certain to find the perfect complement to any bedroom or a bold stand-alone piece for a stylish eclectic look. Smart and elegant, Living It Up’s bedroom chairs are

perfect for unwinding after a hard day at work, lounging with the Sunday papers or for use as an occasional piece. Adele Chair Faux Leather: £179 Henry Chair: £299 Adele Chair: £219 Cathy: £309 Arianna Buttoned: £299 Henry Chair: £299 ppp'ebobg`bmni'\h'nd

Porada Perfection with Lime Modern Living

Cotswold Trading at Club Tropicana Cotswold Trading are celebrating the current trend for all things tutti-frutti-coloured so to get our readers in the carnival mood here's some great products full of fun and sunshine. KitchenAid's Artisan Mixer is fast becoming a timeless classic. Featuring regularly on popular foodie TV shows (like the Great British Bakeoff), the USA's No.1 best-selling mixer is now a covetable kitchen must-have in good old Blighty. Go all-out tropical with KitchenAids in tantalizing Tangerine, mouth-watering Rasberry Ice and zingy Apple Green. East-London-based artist Alexander Joseph Goode has brought enigmatic kookiness to the interiors market with his collection of Cygnus Papilio Cushions. Featured here are just two of the range: Sri Lanka and the Season of Festivals 102

- both stand-out pieces just waiting to perk up a sofa or bed. Search Cotswold Trading's Image Library for more. Miho's Kaleidoscope Fish Decoration is tropical-style personified for the home: ontrend for 2014, a talking point forever. The Vintage Ivy Green Bamboo Plate is the epitome of jungle-inspired tableware, and Disaster Designs' Tiger Clutch brings a hint of the steamy tropics to an evening outfit. You have been warned! ppp'\hmlphe]mkZ]bg`'\hf

The brand new Porada collection from Lime Modern Living Lime Modern Living, the South East’s leading contemporary furniture retailer, has launched its brand new range of Porada furniture. Made in Italy by master craftsmen, the new range from Lime Modern Living includes remarkable designer tables, chairs and armchairs; demonstrating the very best in originality and style. Lime Modern Living’s new range of Porada tables comprises unusual and creative designs. The Porada Elika Table has a beautiful spiral base that is available in a choice of woods and

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features an elegant glass top. Similarly, the Porada Infinity Table features a glass top that sits on a contemporary curved wood frame; creating an attractive decorative piece in the home. The Porada Gheo-Off Table combines form and function with its striking spherical wood base. This statement piece has four wood finishes to choose from to suit the existing décor; from Natural Ash to Canaletto Walnut. The detailed cutaway design of the iconic Porada Jean Wood Table provides ligh t relief to the metal base. Featuring a solid wood top, it suits both modern and classic settings. ppp'ebf^fh]^kgebobg`'\h'nd

/,)(67</(@home Bunting season at Nutmeg and Sage

Cotswolds based home accessories company, Nutmeg and Sage, introduces a new line of cushions featuring that icon of summer; the bunting.

These soft furnishings are perfect for adding fun and colour to any room, and ideal statement pieces for the summerhouse, conservatory or garden. With a choice of 4 summer colour palettes, these cushions are created, as always, using natural materials manufactured in the UK. Chery Nicholson, owner says: “I have created these new lines to represent

summer, and are inspired by the village fete and summer parties where we usually like to string up our bunting”! Designed and handmade in the UK, these home accessories are available now. Nutmeg and Sage designs are available online with prices starting at £12. Due to the handmade natural of the products, no two are the same.

Information about Nutmeg and Sage Nutmeg and Sage, based in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, is run by Yorkshire born artist and illustrator Chery Nicholson from her home where she also paints the local scenery. Her designs are traditional yet modern and are inspired by art, the old crafts, Scandinavian design and her love of the countryside. ppp'gnmf^`Zg]lZ`^'\h'nd

Make your kitchen part of your living room Blending rather than dominating is the ‘in’ design for kitchens this year and is especially true for country-style kitchens across Scotland. Scotland’s largest Independent, luxury kitchen retailer, Kitchens International, recommends integrating the kitchen into the fabric of the home and using designs that have the ability to disguise or screen their functional elements leaving only an image of striking furniture. With six showrooms across the country (Aberdeen, Perth, Edinburgh (2), Broxburn and Glasgow) and 20 years of experience, Kitchens International are experts at designing and installing kitchens that dreams are made of. Kitchen furniture has evolved so much over the years that the kitchen cabinetry is more akin to living room furniture, complete with multi-media cupboards rather than traditional kitchens. Given the sophistication and elegance of many of the materials and finishes now available this ‘living room’ look can be easily achieved in a modern day kitchen. Fresh from winning the kitchen industry ‘Oscar’ – KBB UK Kitchen Retailer of the Year, Kitchens International employs over 70 professional members of staff. As one of the very few kitchen companies to employ all 104

the professionals required for designing AND fitting kitchens, Kitchens International is as passionate about the design as the minutiae of installation. Endorsement of this service is plain to see by the huge number of referrals from past clients and this is the principle upon which the company has been built.

Kitchens International’s reputation has been built on total customer care from the moment the customer walks into the showroom until the kitchen is completely fitted. Customer care is loosely used by others but rarely backed with the investment and belief to make it happen With every kitchen bespoke to

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the user, Kitchens International, as a completely independent company, can adapt to whatever is required. The only thing that stays the same is the high level of customer service throughout the process and extreme attention to detail. ppp'dbm\a^glbgm^kgZmbhgZe' \h'nd

Jeep® sales still rising, even before new Cherokee arrived

Proof of Jeep®’s rediscovered, but continued, popularity in the UK is illustrated in today’s new car registrations figures for May. The legendary 4x4 manufacturer registered 279 sales last month, the ninth consecutive monthly sales climb, and up 218 per cent when compared with the same period last year. The largest model in the current Jeep range, Grand Cherokee, performed exceptionally well again, registering 184 sales – an increase of 207 per cent over May 2013, according to figures supplied by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Clues as to how Jeep customers are funding their new purchases are given by Grand Cherokee finance figures, which reveal a 450 per cent rise in the number of people choosing this method – drivers clearly seeing the benefit of current zero per cent finance and three years’ free servicing offers. All this comes just as Jeep prepares to launch its new Cherokee mid-size SUV in the UK. The car, available in two- or four-wheel drive, with 140hp and 170hp diesel engines and with the choice of six-speed manual or ninespeed automatic transmission, went on sale in June.

CARS

The new generation Audi RS 7 Sportback

The RS 7 Sportback is the most potent five-door coupé in the Audi range - now looks even sharper and performs even more efficiently, yet no less formidably. The new generation RS 7 Sportback, which becomes available to order in the UK later this summer ahead of first deliveries in late 2014, combines subtle styling enhancements with new LED lighting, upgraded infotainment features and revisions to the 560 PS V8 TFSI powerplant which enable it to comply with new EU6 emissions regulations.

“The Audi RS 7 Sportback confirms the reputation of the RS models as the superior, top athletes of our brand,” states Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development of AUDI AG. “The combination of a powerful four litre V8 engine with Cylinder on Demand technology, quattro drive and intelligent lightweight design makes the RS 7 Sportback an outstanding piece of sports equipment for any fan of dynamic and yet efficient driving.”

Volvo Cars’ most luxurious interior ever Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars) has released the first interior images of the all-new Volvo XC90, one of the most anticipated car launches of recent years. The new interior is the most luxurious to have been designed for a Volvo, taking its inspiration from the country of Volvo’s birth, Sweden, which has a global reputation for integrating the latest technology with design that is clean, beautiful and crafted from the finest materials. “The most striking feature is a tablet-like touch screen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new incar control system,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior

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Vice President Design of Volvo Cars. This system – full details of which will be released at a later date – is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services. It also helps create an interior that is modern, spacious and uncluttered. The new XC90’s interior combines materials such as soft leather and wood with handcrafted details including a gear lever made of crystal glass from Orrefors, the famous Swedish glass maker, and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control. 105

PEOPLE ON THE MOV

David Johnstone David Johnstone has been appointed chairman at the Scottish Land & Estates’ annual general meeting in Perth. He succeeds Luke Borwick, chairman for the past seven years. Addressing members, David Johnstone said: “It is a great honour to take over as chairman of Scottish Land & Estates and do so at a time when landowners face an unprecedented range of challenges particularly over land reform, the government-led review of agricultural holdings and CAP reform. “Land-based businesses make a very substantial social, economic and environmental contribution to Scotland but more importantly the overwhelming majority of Scottish landowners see themselves as part of the fabric of the local communities in which they live. They want to do their bit and work in partnership with those around them. “Nowhere is this more clear than in the area of tenant farming. We are committed 100% to achieving a thriving tenanted sector and want to work with government and industry to help make it happen. “To that end, I have written to the NFUS, the Scottish Tenant Farmers Association and the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs appealing for our organisations to meet and discuss whether we can make progress in delivering solutions that will benefit the tenant farming sector. Marcus Potter The Lantra Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the appointment of Marcus Potter as Lantra's new Chief Executive; he joined the organisation in May. Most recently Marcus was Executive Director of Market Development with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Having started his early career in finance, Marcus gained experience across a range of sectors and moved to RICS over 20 years ago. He was responsible for developing the profession, and its commercial businesses outside of the UK including successful new market entries in China, India, Brazil and Japan. Of late Marcus has been leading the internationalisation of RICS and has been highly successful in increasing its commercial revenue through developing and accrediting international standards. He led RICS’ work to establish a University School for the Built Environment at Amity University in India in response to skills shortages there. Lantra is one of the UK’s leading Awarding Organisations and Sector Skills Council for the land-based and environmental industries. The sector currently employs approximately 1.3 million people in 230,000 businesses across the UK. Lantra works to ensure that these businesses access the training, qualifications, skills and knowledge they need. 106

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%22. 5(9,(: Scotland for Gardeners by Kenneth Cox

A gem of a book hits the bookshops this month – Scotland for Gardeners written by Kenneth Cox who runs the Glendoick Garden Centre and Nursery in Perthshire, and illustrated with photographs by Ray Cox. If you are at all interested in gardening this book is gold dust. The jacket claims that it is ‘the most comprehensive guide to Scottish gardens and nurseries ever published’ and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. With a detailed index and well-written entries for almost 750 gardens, nurseries and wildflower sites it is the perfect companion for travellers with a thirst for information on gardens to visit. But don’t be fooled there is much, much more to discover here. The author tells the gardener where to buy the best plants, where readers can find specialist bulbs to order online (or by post) and lists the country’s horticultural societies, festivals and organisations including such delights as the Scottish Snowdrop Festival. Hidden at the back of the book you will find 33 lists of the ‘Best of Scotland for Gardeners’ divided into finds such as ‘Gardens with Outstanding Views’; ‘Autumn Colour’;

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‘ Great Walled Gardens’ and others equally useful when looking for a particular something to do or see. Along with the gardens that are already well-known – the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is there, and Inverewe – there are many gardens that few will have discovered before. One garden in that category that this reader is delighted to see included is ‘Old Inzievar House’ near Oakley in Fife. My grandfather was born in the stable quarters of this old house and it was here that he discovered his love of gardening and went on to inspire his sons and grandchildren. It is good to hear that the old walled garden has been restored. Mr Cox describes it as ‘a young and maturing garden worth watching in years to come’. I’ll be watching. Scotland for Gardeners is written by Kenneth Cox. It is published by Birlinn Ltd (June 2014, £25pbk). Mabl bl Z l^\hg] ^]bmbhg h_ ma^ [hhd% pab\a bg +))2 phg @Zk]^g K^_^k^g\^ ;hhd h_ ma^ R^Zk'

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