Farming Scotland Magazine (Jan - Feb 2016 Edition) by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd

Tuathanachas Alba

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FREE INSIDE 2016 Show Guide Wall Poster Scottish Speciality Food Show Tractors for 2016 Dairy Expo 2016 Independent Education

Profile Lawrie & Symington Flavour of Scotland Food Awards Our Farm Shop Craigie Farm Shop

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february 2016

Scotland’s national farming & rural lifestyle magazine

Beatha an Eilean Life on the Islands ‘Isolation Shepherd’ Part 2 of our book serialisation Topic Employing a potato planter World Farming Austria ART Featuring Dot Walker Plus Drovers Tales • Beautiful Tractors • Lifestyle Country Woman • Equine Tried & Tested Estate • Renewable Energy • Cars including all of our regular news sections and columns

contents

february 2016

MAIN FEATURES

21 ISOLATION SHEPHERD

Scottish Speciality Food Show

Tractors for 2016

Lawrie & Symington Profile

BEATHA AN EILEAN

Dairy Expo 2016

70 Life on the islands

66 Part 2 of our serialisation

112 Independent Education

WHISKY 71 Special Limited Edition Offer of our 16 year old malt whisky

TOPIC 15

Employing a potato planter

EQUINE TRIED & TESTED

FLAVOUR of SCOTLAND

78 Winter Warmers

18 Food Awards

OUR FARM SHOP

BEAUTIFUL TRACTORS

21 Craigie Farm Shop

108 Minneapolis & Massey Harris

WORLD FARMING

ART

40 Austria

123 Featuring Dot Walker

DROVERS TALES

NEWS

59 Diary of Ken Headspeath

EDITOR & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Athole Murray Fleming Tel. 01738 639747 E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Fleming Email: christina@atholedesign.com

Arable

109

12 Potatoes 39 EU News 48 Renewable Energy 53 Environment 54 Livestock 62 Dairy 64 Sheep 68 Pigs 72 Estate 77 Horses 80 Future Farmer 83 Science & Technology 84 Gadgets 86 Finance 88 Machinery 109 Country Woman 116 Lifestyle 120 @Home 124 Cars

64 NSA Scotland 65 Young Shepherd 73 On the Peg 74 Conservation Matters 75 Off the Hook 76 Scottish Land & Estates 79 Equine Angle 82 S.A.Y.F.C. 85 Online Savvy 87 The Money Man 105 Farm Watch 111 Southern Belle 117 Rural Style 118 R.S.A.B.I. 126 People on the move 126 Book Review

COLUMNS

119 Getting your own personal copy posted directly to you is very easy.

4 7 13 19 20 43 53 57 58 63

Editor’s bit In my view Crofting Let’s Cook Farmers Markets Scottish Government Farming for the Climate Quality Meat Scotland The Vet NFU Scotland

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

SUBSCRIPTION

NEXT ISSUE Will be out on 1st March with features on Balers, Sprayers, Buildings, Irrigation, Fencing. If interested in advertising or supplying articles, please call us on 01738 639747.

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

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

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

ISSN: 2041–918X

©ATHOLE DESIGN 2016

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arable editor's bit A new year and new plans

Well here we are, its 2016 and another year of plans and schemes are in the pipeline here at FSM HQ. Firstly, we are working on a huge expansion of our National Retail Network which we hope to announce in the next few months. Our aim is now to make FSM the most widespread magazine in the country. So an exciting project for us here, and the final ‘rung in the ladder’ when it comes to us building the quality and brand of our little family run magazine over the last few years. We are also planning to publish our first ever supplement title which will be launched within our July – August Edition. Shooting Scotland Magazine will be a great addition to our reading content, and will provide another great reason for everyone with an interest in Scottish farming & rural life to get involved with FSM, whether it is through subscribing, placing advertising, sending in news stories or contributing articles – we are here to promote and support rural life in Scotland. A simple ambition, but it all takes time, and we are really getting there now! So I will finish now with a big ‘thank you’ to all our supporters and contributors over the last few years, you all help make this thing possible. Onwards and upwards folks! Slàinte, Athole.

Brassica and salad crop growers get new protection from aphid pest problems An exciting new insecticide treatment for module & blockraised brassica and salad crops will now give plants up to eight weeks protection against a wide range of aphid pests after planting. Cruiser 70WS is a new liquid formulation of the highly effective Syngenta insecticide, Thiamethoxam, approved exclusively for treatment utilising innovative Phyto-Drip technology. Used in brassica crops, including cabbage, Brussels sprout, cauliflower, broccoli, Chinese cabbage and kale, Cruiser 70WS controls aphid species Myzus persicae and Cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae). Furthermore, in salad lettuce and endive crops, Cruiser 70WS prevents damage from a range of approved aphid species and reduces risk of the pest in harvested leaves and heads. Welcoming the approval for Cruiser 70WS, Syngenta insecticide Technical Manager, Pete Saunders, highlighted that when adopted as part of growers IPM programmes it would significantly help to protect crops from leaf damage, reduce risk of virus infection and to market produce free from aphids. The withdrawal of dummy pill treatments had left brassica growers with little or no option for effective early season insect pest control. “Crucially for aphid control, Cruiser 70WS can help to prevent build-up of aphid populations resistant to other insecticide treatments, which will reduce pressure on other crops and achieve better results with foliar programmes,” he advised. “This year, we have experienced the serious consequence of the loss of www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

In my view

arable neonicotinoid seed treatment in oilseed rape - with the knock on effect of Myzus Persicae numbers at record levels in the spring affecting the vegetable sector. “The approval of Cruiser 70WS for brassicas and salads could help reduce this increasing pressure of Myzus Persicae into crops.” Pete reported salad crop trials had shown a 95% overall control of the most problematic Myzus persicae aphids seven weeks after planting. With application of Cruiser 70WS using Phyto-Drip technology plant raisers had seen excellent crop safety, with more uniform germination, faster growth and stronger rooting of lettuce plants, compared to conventional

seed treatment, dummy pills or untreated seed. “More uniform germination optimises plant raisers’ glasshouse performance and output, along with efficiency of planting out operations for growers,” said Pete. “Consistent, reliable fast crop growth protected by Cruiser 70WS aids better crop scheduling and field production.” Phyto-Drip technology is an exciting development for the precision treatment of growing medium blocks at the time of seed sowing. The fully automated system, developed by Syngenta and engineers in Holland, delivers an extremely accurate dose in a single droplet of treatment onto a pre-seeded cell block.

Prevention better than cure in fight against LLS

Early detection and repeat treatments are the keys to effective Light Leaf Spot (LLS) control in oilseed rape this season. That is according to Gemma Sparrow, Technical Specialist for Adama, who warns that well-timed fungicide applications are essential in order to effectively target and control the disease this winter.

“With the HGCA’s CropMonitor service already forecasting high levels of Light Leaf Spot for the forthcoming season, it is a brave grower who allows their oilseed rape crop to reach stem extension before applying a second fungicide treatment,” Miss Sparrow warns. She advises that it is unrealistic to expect even the best

A few thoughts for the new year By John Cameron Balbuthie, Kilconquhar, Fife Well – the festive season comes near once again, so I really thought I couldn’t depress everybody by writing more about the potential timetable of our new Basic Area Payments. All I will say is that thanks to industry pressure – and in my view the NFU along with others have certainly made it clear to Government the urgency of the present situation. As I write farmers are receiving the first “information” letter regarding the current scheme – there are several more to come! – but it is pretty obvious that our Chief Agricultural Officer – David Barnes who signed the letter is acutely aware of the urgency of the situation – as I would expect him to be! So what else can I write about that will interest readers. After my term as President of the NFU which I thoroughly enjoyed – the Secretary of State offered me an appointment as Chairman of Scotrail and the opportunity to represent Scotland on the then Nationalised British Railway’s Board. I don’t know to this day who informed Secretary of State of my interest in railways and in spite of enjoying being a simple farmer again after my NFU days – this was one appointment I could not refuse. Much to the relief of my wife and farm staff who were not necessarily relishing the fact the boss was back! Firstly – although there were a few eyebrows raised by the railway professionals – I have to say that they all made ‘the farmer’ very welcome. One of the first things I discovered when receiving my financial briefing was that the railway system in Scotland received more by way of subsidy than all of the Scottish

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agricultural subsidies put together. I have to say that I always thought that – as an industry – we never properly explained the real effect of agricultural subsidies on food prices to our customers – the general public. I have always been a ‘grass roots’ man and decided that I would get myself passed out as a driver to properly understand the railway bottom line. I remember hearing some of the locomotive inspectors asking – in my hearing – who was going to ‘fail’ the Chairman! Until I reminded them that there were vacancies at Kyle of Lochalsh! But it was a good move on my part as once the drivers could see that I was reasonably competent – we started to talk freely and I must tell you that I learned more about what was going on on the railway than all the Board Papers put together! More recently I had the pleasure of working the Royal Train at the opening of the new Borders Railway. I guess what gave me greatest pleasure during my time at Scotrail was to be the first region to successfully reopen one of the lines closed by the infamous Dr Beeching and I refer to the ‘Bathgate Line’ which was an absolute winner and proved that Beeching was not always right! The only problem was that revenue well exceeded the level I had guaranteed the Secretary of State would receive but when I asked if we could retain the balance the answer was ‘well done – but no’! Ah well – like farming you can’t win! I wish readers all the best in the New Year and will keep up pressure on the new payments! 7

arable fungicides to last through until March and warns that growers will need to be one step ahead as disease pressures cycle and grow through the winter months, particularly given the mild and wet conditions experienced so far this year. “The risk of LLS infection is currently greatest in the north and west of England,” Miss Sparrow continues, “but can no longer be regarded as a North-only disease. Instead, growers throughout the UK should adopt a preventative control strategy as curative strategies alone are likely to result in poor control, leaving growers one-step behind and constantly chasing the disease.” For successful control, Miss Sparrow endorses a second fungicide application as soon as the first signs of the disease are noticed and growers are able to travel. “There is no substitution for regular and rigorous crop inspections,” she continues. “In high risk areas, growers should

consider a second fungicide application in January or February, before temperatures start to rise and crops begin to develop. This will give better results in terms of disease control compared to waiting for crops to reach a particular growth stage and will significantly reduce yield losses later in the year. “Early detection and treatment at the beginning of the New Year will provide more effective control than treating heavily diseased crops at stem extension,” she adds. “With many forward crops in the ground, growers should also be considering the application of a growth regulator to manage canopy size and structure.” Containing two triazoles, prochloraz and tebuconazole, Adama’s Orius P provides reliable, efficient and costeffective preventative LLS control. The combination of these two active ingredients supports an anti-resistance

management strategy, with the tebuconazole bringing a flexible level of growth regulation. “In HGCA 2014 trials, Orius P (used at a full label rate of 1.5 l/ha per single dose) delivered a 0.57t/ha yield increase over

Energy crop in trials to restore flood plain soils

Farmers looking for a crop to grow on flood-prone land, and help improve soils after flooding, as well as provide fuel for biomass, may soon have the answer. This is thanks to some new trials to examine how the energy crop, miscanthus, survives in water-logged land and its effect on the soil after flooding. The trials are being jointly-run by the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences at Aberystwyth University, and miscanthus supply chain specialists, Terravesta. They come some 18 months after the floods which devastated in the Somerset Levels and are being funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). “We know miscanthus has the ability to tolerate flooding 8

untreated crops. With the added benefit of being suited to flexible dosing rates, Orius P can also be applied at 0.75-1.5 l/ha depending on canopy size and disease pressure,” Miss Sparrow concludes.

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when it’s mature, but there’s a gap in the data about its tolerance during its establishment stage, and this is during the first two years of growth,” says Dr Sarah Purdy, plant physiologist, from Aberystwyth University. “What’s really exciting about these trials is that we’re also going to analyse the health of the soil, following the floods, when compared to other land-uses,” says Dr Purdy. The trials will see the biomass crop, miscanthus, grown on commercial flood-prone sites, on plot-scale sites and in controlled environments under glass, to monitor how the crop copes with prolonged flooding, particularly in its establishment stage, and analyse the structure and nutritional health of the soil. “We believe miscanthus may be beneficial to soil because this perennial crop has a life cycle

arable lasting up to twenty years, in which time the soil experiences no tillage, just an annual harvest. Therefore the soil can maintain its structure which promotes colonisation by beneficial microbes and creatures such as earthworms. “Miscanthus has a large under-ground rhizome which recycles nitrogen and other essential nutrients from the stems before harvest so that no fertilizer needs to be applied to achieve high yields,” explains Dr Purdy. “The implications for farmers struggling to grow crops on waterlogged land, are vast. If the nutrient recycling benefits offered by miscanthus can still promote healthy growth after a flood event, growers could reduce expenditure on rehabilitating land through fertilizer application by growing this crop. The trials will also be able to establish whether the crop has

multiple uses, such as increasing soil stability, restoring waterdamaged soils and mopping up nutrients on the edges of waterways,” says Dr Purdy. Miscanthus supply chain specialists, Terravesta, is a partner in this project, and will provide land farmed by its southern region manager, Mike Cooper, on the Somerset Levels. Mike Cooper, who manages the rhizome supply to other growers, and grows the crop himself, supplying Terravesta, for biomass pelleting, says: “We’ve believed for a long time that miscanthus improves the quality of soil, and we know it thrives on problem, flood-prone land. We need to plan for the future, especially on the Somerset levels, where growers are looking at planting alternative crops,” says Mike. The project officially started end of 2015 and will continue this year.

New high-yielding spring malting barley variety being developed for both distilling and brewing A new high-yielding spring malting barley variety that could give growers access not only to the distilling market but also to UK and overseas brewing, subject to end user acceptance, is being developed by breeder Syngenta. Laureate is a top-yielding, non-GN spring malting barley that has excellent quality for both distilling and brewing, says the company’s barley breeder, Paul Bury, as well as offering good disease resistance and very high untreated yield. It is being developed for these multiple end markets as the industry moves back to wanting single varieties suited

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to both outlets, which was a market position occupied a decade ago by the popular spring barley variety Optic, he says. A variety suited to these markets should offer benefits to growers and users alike, he adds. “The industry needs a new variety that is consistent in the field and provides top quality for end users – be they brewers or distillers,” says Mr Bury. “We believe Laureate provides the malting barley industry with what it is looking for. “It had the highest treated yield figure of any spring malting barley variety in AHDB

arable Recommended List trials in 2015, and it has performed well in both Scotland and England. “Recently, there has been a widening yield gap between new brewing varieties and the current varieties used for distilling. Laureate is the new variety that offers competitive yield to growers, whilst maintaining the high malting quality levels the industry needs – including a high spirit yield for distilling and a high hot water extract for brewing. Encouragingly, it is under IBD testing for both markets.

“On top of that, Laureate is being registered across Europe, like Propino and Tipple before it, and it has shown very consistent and very high yields across a wide range of environments and seasons – including in Denmark, Germany, France, Holland and Austria. So we hope it will have future export potential as well. “Agronomically, Laureate also has excellent disease resistance,” adds Mr Bury, “including to mildew, Rhynchosporium and brown rust, which is underlined by its very high untreated yield.”

Mycotoxin UK & Ireland wheat survey 2015 Mycotoxins are highly toxic secondary metabolic products of moulds. Mycotoxin producing moulds damage crops and can cause great economic losses at all levels of food and feed production. Moreover, many of the mycotoxins impair health, cause diseases and may even result in death in humans and animals when contaminated food or feed products are consumed. The 2015 Nutriad Mycotoxin Survey covers 66 samples from all over Great Britain and Ireland. More than 460 analyzes were conducted to test for the occurrence of the seven mycotoxins most frequently found in agricultural commodities intended for animal production. The survey provides an insight into the incidences of aflatoxins (Afla), zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON), T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, fumonisin B1 (FB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) across all regions of the UK and Ireland. All analyzed samples were wheat. Typically levels of DON and zearalenone tend to be lower in northern England and Scotland, moderate in western England, Wales and Ireland and highest in southern and southeastern England. All samples (66) were collected almost immediately after the harvest and the probability that some storage mycotoxins will have developed (OTA) was low. Wheat samples were sampled directly from farms or animal feed production sites.

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Sample providers were advised to follow the principles of good sampling (Richard, 2000). However, analytical personnel and/or laboratory staff were not involved in sampling and, therefore, did not influence any part of this procedure. All seven mycotoxins were analyzed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC MS/MS). For the purpose of data analysis, non-detection levels were based on the limits of quantification (LOQ) of the test method for each mycotoxin: AfB1 < 0.5 μg/kg; ZEN < 10 μg/kg; DON < 75 μg/ kg; FB1 < 125 μg/kg; OTA < 1 μg/ kg; T-2 toxin < 4 μg/kg and HT-2 toxin < 4 μg/kg. The results show that only 4.5% of wheat samples were contaminated with DON and none of the samples contained AfB1. Only 3.03 % of samples contained T-2 toxin and ZEN. The average concentrations of all recovered mycotoxins were low while the highest concentration of DON found reached only 107.14 μg/kg. Although 12.12% of the samples contained HT-2 toxin, a mycotoxin extremely toxic for poultry, its maximum concentration reached only 24.7 μg/kg and this level is negligible. None of the samples were contaminated with OTA or FB1 but this result was expected as it is well known that OTA is a typical storage mycotoxin and FB1 is preferably produced on maize.

potatoes Carrying out five operations in one pass at planting keeps it simple Scottish potato grower Hugh Brunton of Crudie Farm, Arbroath says simplifying the planting operation has helped ensure the costeffective production of high quality potatoes, particularly by achieving good crop uniformity. Planting potatoes can be stressful, especially when it involves carrying out as may as five operations in one pass. Mr Brunton places seed and fertiliser using a Grimme GB215 belt planter fitted with fertiliser hopper, and at the same time applies nematicide through a Horstine applicator; Amistar through a Chafer/Grimme applicator and Moncerin through two applicators for tackling black scurf. Mr Brunton says the 2-row belt planter has replaced two GL cup planters. He now achieves the same output with one planter as he used to do with two, which cuts down on machinery and labour costs and simplifies the planting system. The GB215 is small enough to cope with some narrow roads between fields and it lends itself to being easy to empty when switching between varieties. Main crop varieties include Maris Piper and King Edwards along with some salads for suppliers including

Branston, Greenvale, and QV Foods. Planting between 15-20 acres/day at a speed up to 7kph is achievable now he says, compared to only 3-4kph with the previous planters. He reduces forward speed for planting salads at six inch spacing. “We would struggle to do this without a good operator. With so many operations going on at the same time, there is no margin for error,” he explains. “So, having one planter means we only have one set of kit to worry about, which avoids the chance of applying different rates of chemical or seed in the same field. This keeps the operation easy to manage and helps to maintain field uniformity. “We are very happy with the performance of the belt planter over the old cup planting system,” he says. “The planting density is bang on and accuracy is just as good as the cup planter. Seed rate calibration is all automatic on the GB215 and there are plenty of warning systems which allows seed spacing tolerance to be changed on the move. “Actual planting reliability is now much improved as a result, which makes the operation much less intensive than before and this allows the operator to

keep an eye on all the other operations at the same time. For example changing seed rates is all done electronically, which is fast and easy. A small perspex window has been fitted to the side of the planter to improve operator visibility.” He adds that seed size is closely banded (between 35mm-55mm) because the planter’s performance can be compromised in situations where too big a range of seed is being used. Potato land is winter ploughed and deep ridged in the spring. About 50% of the land is bedtillered before being stone separated and then planted. Cropping also includes spring barley and winter wheat and onions along with a pedigree Simmental herd. Soils are mostly light loam and support ware yields of 20t/acre. “We used to broadcast fertiliser in a separate operation on potato land but this was expensive and time consuming, and we also felt that too much was being thrown in the field margins or left on the headlands. Now that we place all our fertiliser in the ridge at planting more of the nutrients are available to the crop,” he says. “It makes sense to put the fertiliser near the seed where it can be used during the growing

PACKAGED POTATO & VEGETABLE COOLING SYSTEMS

D. . LT 2QD ON 7 TI ld S 71 A R ffie 99 GE he 236 I FR d, S 14 81 RE oa D 01 686 R Y 3 LE ale FIEL 4 2 D d F 1 y A 1 WITH OPTIONAL BR bbe SHE ax: 0 A l: F 9 ‘AUTO SWIVEL-HEAD AIR DISTRIBUTION e 92 T WILL FIT MOST EXISTING SYSTEMS Patent Application No 9320628.2

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period. Some growers disagree with placing fertiliser near the seed due to concerns over high dose rates around the root zone, but we haven’t found that to be the case after three seasons. “Placing fertiliser is also a much tidier operation and our environmental footprint has improved as a result too,” says Mr Brunton. The 700kg fertiliser hopper is attached to the front linkage on the Fendt 716 tractor. Local dealer Agricar added a 300kg extension to it to increase capacity because some of Mr Brunton’s fields are more than 50 acres so with a smaller hopper there was a risk of running out along the row.

potatoes Tong presents new Storemaker at Lamma

crofting Crofting Destiny Lies With Crofters

By Patrick Krause, Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation Leading vegetable handling equipment manufacturer, Tong Engineering, is once again exhibiting at the UK’s largest farm machinery show LAMMA, to present its latest equipment range for 2015, on stand R39. Following on from the success of the new model of its marketleading Caretaker mobile grader in 2015, Tong has added the latest technologies and features to new models of its popular Storemaker hopper cleaner, and will be exhibiting the new machine at the event. Like new models of the Caretaker, Tong’s new Storemaker offers the very best energy efficiency, with Tong’s all electric Blue Inverter Technology drive. The new Storemaker also features the company’s second generation EasyClean separator, the EasyClean II, with inverter direct drive motors on every shaft, ensuring minimal maintenance and refined control. The latest EasyClean is a cartridge-style module, allowing easy interchange with other cleaning units, including coil and star cleaners, if desired. Built using new uprated heavy duty spiral shafts with a unique helix rib and axial air chamber, the EasyClean ensures the best deformation of the spiral for self-cleaning and exceptional grip on leaf matter. A new auto-eject function to ensure any foreign objects are ejected automatically, to prevent machine damage, is also a feature of the new design. Another new feature on new models of the Storemaker is the option of Tong’s new and advanced Pro-Series control interface, which

is offered as part of its AutoTouch HMI touch screen control. With added benefits including a new, larger display with easy to use graphical controls, the Auto –Touch HMI Pro-Series not only provides total touch-screen control of machine speed and settings, it also offers advanced diagnostics including a machine health status report, plus precise fault detection and location of any machine faults or E-stop alerts, significantly reducing downtime and maintenance. Integrated safety features within the Pro-Series control also allow unparalleled safety parameters to be set in place, meaning like the Caretaker, the new models of the Storemaker operate with a category three safety system. Complementing the new EasyClean II separator and AutoTouch HMI advancements are a number of additional features on new Storemakers, including a heavy duty folding-side hopper design as standard for easy transport, as well as an upgraded drawbar and tailgate system for added strength and durability. The option of trailer reversing sensors for quick and easy loading into the hopper is also an option on new Storemakers, making the whole loading process even more efficient. “We look forward to seeing farmers and growers from all over the UK at Lamma, to discuss their handling requirements and what’s new for the year ahead, with hot refreshments in our heated marquee.” For more information on Tong’s latest range of handling equipment visit www.tongengineering.com.

‘The Future of Crofting’, a conference held in Inverness recently to look at progress made on crofting reform, 7 years since the Committee of Inquiry on Crofting (CoIoC), concluded that there is still much unfinished business to attend to. The conference was opened by minister for crofting Dr Aileen McLeod who drew attention to the five priorities that were presented to her recently by the Crofting Stakeholder Forum: 1. simplify crofting legislation with a new act; 2. make crofts available for new entrants; 3. increase affordable croft housing; 4. fund a lead body on crofting development and 5. ensure that CAP support has a positive impact on crofting. Professor Mark Shucksmith introduced the discussions with a summary of the findings of the CoIoC which he led and, unsurprisingly, they almost exactly mirror the priorities above. Professor Shucksmith pointed out that all the evidence taken, which is still available on-line, and the recommendations drawn from it were presented to the Scottish Government in 2008. So why do stakeholders have to present almost

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exactly the same action plan today I wonder? Former president of the Scottish Crofters Federation Professor Frank Rennie referred to Professor Shucksmith’s conclusion that crofters need to take charge of their own destiny with the assertion that “we need to take it by the scruff of the neck and be more involved in these things.” He went on to say “I don’t hold with this idea of a crofters committee on the NFU – crofting is nothing to do with farming … crofting is a key cultural facet that we need to push.” He concluded by saying that we need more crofts, which gained wide agreement. NFUS did not have a representative at the conference to reply to this. There seemed to be concurrence when Scottish Government officials revealed that the Future of Scottish Agriculture consultation document only mentions crofting in one of the nine outcomes, recognising its contribution to Scottish society. SCF’s vice-chair Russell Smith, an active crofter himself, reminded the conference that the outlook is not all sunshine but he concluded that “if you want population in rural areas, crofting works”.

www.crofting.org 13

potatoes AHDB showcases UK horticulture and potato exports at Fruit Logistica 2016 Nine companies will join AHDB over the three day annual event taking place from February 3 – 5 at Messe, Berlin. The AHDB Exports stand will feature a range of organisations from the UK’s fresh produce and potato industry, plus crop science and government plant health officials. Co-exhibitors at the event include: A C Goatham, Angus Soft Fruits, Bedfordshire Growers, Cranfield University, Frederick Hiam, James Hutton Ltd, Moorhouse & Mohan, Skea Organics and SASA (Scottish Government). The aim of the AHDB Exports stand at Fruit Logistica is to develop export opportunities for the seed potato and horticultural fresh produce industries, enabling them to promote, do business and network.

Steve Tones, Horticulture Strategy Director at AHDB said, “Export remains an untapped area of opportunity for many businesses within the potato and horticulture supply chain. The aim of taking representatives from potato and horticulture businesses to join AHDB at Fruit Logistica is to provide an affordable way for these industries to attend this major event and provide a high profile presence to support their export activity. Participation in this event grows year-on-year and it is positive to see so many more horticultural businesses getting involved this year.” Robert Burns, head of seed and export at AHDB Potatoes said, “Eighty per-cent of all GB seed potatoes (500K tonnes) are grown in Scotland, supported by strong plant health credentials and the

largest high-health region in the EU. Seed exports from Scotland are growing year-on-year and last season, peaked at 120K tonnes with a value of around £42m.” “We’re excited about our newly-branded exports stand at Fruit Logistica, which features more exhibitors than ever this year. Our joint industry endeavour shows the strengths of the UK potato and horticulture sectors at Fruit Logistica and we look forward to supporting our industry in Berlin next February.” A highlight of the AHDB Exports stand will be the highprofile UK Reception, supported by UKTI, on Thursday 4th February between 4.00 until 6.00pm (Hall 8.2, stand B-06). Growing in popularity each year, the 2016 Reception will be one of Fruit Logistica’s leading business networking events, opened by the head of UKTI, Tony Sims OBE

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alongside AHDB’s chairman, Sir Peter Kendall. Other members of AHDB’s export marketing team will be there to talk to visitors about the export promotion work we do. All UK exhibitors, visitors and their worldwide contacts, and UK and worldwide media, are all welcome to come along and try some of the finest products that the UK has to offer. Visitors interested in exploring export opportunities, meeting UK producers, talking to technical experts or wanting to participate on the UK stand at next year’s event are also urged to attend. Find us in the same place: Hall 8.2, stand B-06, where there will be a warm welcome for all our visitors throughout this leading business event. For more information visit potato.ahdb.org.uk or horticulture. ahdb.org.uk

TOPIC

High capacity potato belt planter aiding salad operation Employing a potato planter that can accurately place more seed in a bed evenly and at speed whilst boosting output cost-effectively, is exactly why Bruce Farms near Meigle purchased a new Grimme GB330 trailed belt planter for its salad potato operation.

Kerrr Howatson

Farm manager Kerr Howatson says that since replacing a Grimme GL32 mounted cup planter with the GB330 in 2013 for planting three rows of salad potatoes in one bed, the speed of planting has nearly doubled and yields are expected to increase to around 12t/ac. Compared to the 2-row bed method, it is possible to plant more potatoes on the same area and to distribute them more evenly. Bruce Farms grows 550 acres of main crop and 100 acres of salad potatoes all on contract to Bartletts of Aidrie. The majority of potatoes are grown within a 10 mile radius of the farm although an expanding satellite operation also now exists further south in the Borders. This is the third season salads have been grown on the farm which has helped to spread the workload and utilise potato growing equipment. “We bought the new belt planter predominantly to start growing salads on three rows in a bed system,” says Mr Howatson. “We could have stuck with the old planter to grow salads on a two row system, but it would have meant only getting two thirds of the crop from the

same area. After a demonstration of the new planter in 2012 we bought our own.” Mr Howatson says that the only potential downside of planting three rows in a bed is in a wet year when there could be an issue with having to deal with more soil at harvest. However, with lifting starting in August when it should be drier, it is not likely to be much of a problem. “But, during the growing season the fact that we are operating with wide rows minimises soil disturbance, which helps prevents greening and lower yield,” says Mr Howatson. “We are expecting between 10-12t/ac. Planting with a belt planter is also advantageous because it’s incredibly accurate and we can plant at speeds of about 8kph, which is twice as fast as we would normally expect to go when planting salads.” The GL32 planter used to achieve planting speeds of about 5kph and two stone and clod separators running in front could keep it going. However, the increased output achieved with the new planter has meant investing in a third separator.

“The GB330 is far more sophisticated and technical than the previous machine, which was all chains and sprockets,” says Mr Howatson. “We haven’t had any problems yet with the new planter and in my opinion it’s one of the best Grimme products we’ve had on the farm.” He points out that the extra module can be removed to allow planting two rows in a bed for main crop. It takes two men about two hours to change the planter over. Mr Howatson says that the farm services all its own kit pre-season using its own two full time mechanics. “The planter is fitted with a high speed Flow-Board that is connected with the furrow openers and ensures the tubers are evenly covered with soil and maintains a crisp and straight drill. Greedy boards help to retain the soil within the hood arrangement,” he explains. Being a trailed planter the GL330 can support a much larger hopper which has a 3t capacity compared to 1t on the previous mounted machine. It is pulled by a 175hp Massey 7616 tractor although Mr

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Howatson maintains that this provides more than enough grunt. The planter is also fitted with seed treatment and Amistar applicators which are attached to the tractor front linkage. The product is pumped back to the planter hoods where it is incorporated in the bed. “Planting salads at a rate of 2.5t/ac means that having a bigger hopper allows us to keep going for longer,” explains Mr Howatson. “We plant salads at six inch spacing and use a Trimble-based GPS system for planting accuracy. A very sophisticated headland management system means the whole operation is now totally automated. Even the hopper lifts automatically which ensures the belts are always being fed with potatoes.” Four TV cameras strategically positioned around the planter improve operator visibility. A reversing camera means that the operator never needs to look back which has a significant impact on driving comfort. Wheels on the back of the planter steer it on the headlands and keep it straight on slopes. 15

A FEAST OF FINE FOOD AND DRINKS AWAITS AT SCOTLAND’S SPECIALITY FOOD SHOW Scotland has come a long way from just shortbread, whisky and haggis in its food and drink offerings. What better place to get a taste of this market than at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show, being held from 24-26th Jan at the SECC in Glasgow. Over one third of the 150 exhibitors are new to the Show and some will be launching to the trade for the first time ever, making this Show a ‘must visit’ for all quality food retailers from delis to farm shops, tourist shops to convenience stores. This year there is an increasing

emphasis on food and drink for the hospitality sector too. Complemented by an everincreasing mix of established food companies and distributors, this Show has predominantly Scottish exhibitors but enhanced by some excellent British and worldwide foods that will add originality and quality to any retailers’ shelves or food counter. Launch Gallery At the centre of the Show are about 20 innovative young companies, specially selected

for their originality and quality and who have been trading for under two years. This year’s line-up includes the new Luss Smokehouse which is launching at the Show, The Very Lovely Sauce Company with its range of caramel sauces, The Auchtermuchty Cake Company, Angus and Oink’s rubs and marinades, Red Squirrel drinks, Ogilvy Spirits, What to Eat if for food allergy sufferers, The Wee Kitchen and Yorkshire Dama Cheese, who all have exciting, innovative products to tempt your customers.

What’s New? As Scotland’s Speciality Food Show grows from year to year it attracts many new companies. New for 2016 include: Clash Farm Pedigree Saddlebacks – from their herd of free range saddlebacks this company produces traditional pork, bacon and salumi in Scotland using traditional methods. They will be launching an artisan range and are already favoured at many of the country’s top restaurants. Wild Fig – as producers of artisanal sauces, marmalades and chutneys they will be launching a Glengoyne Chutney at the Show. Techni-K – food safety consultancy that works with the food manufacturing industry. Koppert Cress – different types of Cress from the Netherlands, especially for the food service industry. Yushoi Snacks – savoury snacks made in Scotland from green peas and rice. Yum Yum Bros – the gourmet snacking company Spice Pots – Indian Spice pots Famous Luca ice cream from Mussellburgh Orkney Winery Great favourites For many retailers the Show is a chance to re-connect with suppliers and see what they are launching for 2016.

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SCOTLAND’S SPECIALITY FOOD SHOW tips on social media for our business or how to improve but never have the time? This year’s Show will have an impressive line-up of interesting seminars and workshops on subjects such as social media, how to display your goods from John Lewis’s head of Merchandising, maximising Google to bring in customers from Google’s training team, a masterclass on making coffee, and PR tips and workshop for retailers.

Show stalwarts include: Summer Harvest – launching new gift boxes Patchwork Traditional Food Co – launching mushroom marmalade Field Fare – traditional quality frozen food Stewart Tower Dairy – delicious natural ice cream from the producer’s own dairy herd in Perthshire Summerhouse drinks from Aberdeenshire Anthony Rowcliffe – big cheese distributor who returns to the Show Stoats Porridge Bars Caledonian Confectionery Great Glen Game – award winning dried meats and salamis Hebridean Sea Salt – launching new smoked salmon

Creamery. Similarly Northern Ireland will have a special regional collection of stands, showcasing some of the best producers in the region. New for 2015 is a Borders section making the most of the fine meat, drinks and food from this region with several enterprising exhibitors including Curly Coo Tablet, Born in the Borders, Cuddy Bridge Apple Juice, The Juicy Meat Company and Giacopazzi’s. Seminars for the added extras How often do we want extra

Awarding the best Best Product Awards are made for the best products in four categories – condiments and preserves, chilled and frozen, drinks and confectionery, biscuits and snacks. Judged by industry experts, such as Katy Rodgers from Fintry and Anna Mitchell from Castleton Farm Shop as well as a high profile chef/foodie at the opening of the Show, the winners will be displayed in special cabinets. And finally… Mark Saunders, Director of the Show said: “Run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fair, which features over 400 suppliers of gifts, jewellery, clothing and crafts, the Show kicks off the

fine food buying season for the year. “Scottish food and drink has been put centre stage this year with the Year of Food and Drink so we are in the perfect position to offer some of the best products available in the UK for farm shops, delis, and cafes.” Robert Thain, Food Buyer at House of Bruar said: “This Show has such a vibrant selection of food and drink on offer. I am particularly impressed with the number of start-up businesses and unique Scottish products, especially in the drinks sector. Specialist Scottish food has come a long way in the last few years.”

Distributing the very best The UK’s top quality food distributors will be well represented with a wonderful array of delicious food and drink on their stands. The Cress Company, as Scotland’s leading distributor will have a large stand, as will Hider Foods and Cotswold Fayre. Trip to Orkney, Ireland and the Borders The Orkney Isles are a hub of creativity and will have their own section at the Show. This includes Barony Mills with their wide range of breads and oatcakes, Jolly’s of Orkney, Argo’s Bakery and The Orkney www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND Scottish Butchers Scoop Prestigious Awards at Top Ceremony Butchers from Scotland were among the top award winners at the 2015 Butcher’s Shop of the Year Awards, run by Meat Trades Journal. Boghall Butchers from Bathgate was named Scottish Butcher’s Shop of the Year and Lisa Finnigan of Davidsons Specialist Butchers in Inverurie was named UK Young Butcher of the Year at the annual event held recently in Leeds. The Butcher’s Shop of the Year awards seek out the best butcher and farm shops across the UK, as well as recognizing the rising stars of the industry. Boghall Butchers lifted the award for Scottish Butcher’s Shop of the Year, sponsored by the Scotch Butchers Club run by Quality Meat Scotland, following a substantial investment to extend and completely refurbish the premises. Boghall Butchers is a familyrun business founded in 1975. Commenting on their achievement, owner of Boghall Butchers, Paul Boyle said: “This award means so much to us and I am incredibly proud of our staff for all their hard work.

Scottish Butcher’s Shop of the Year winners

“The last year has seen a number of changes to the business following our refurbishment, which has virtually doubled the size of our front shop. “It was a big investment for us but it has been well worth it and to be named Scottish Butcher’s Shop of the Year only goes to highlight the progress we have made.”

Boghall Butchers beat stiff competition from other successful Scottish butchers – including John Lawson Butchers from Broxburn and Patricks of Camelon from Falkirk – to lift the award. UK Young Butcher of the Year, Lisa Finnigan of Davidsons in Inverurie, was also representing the high standard of the butchery trade in Scotland.

Following in the footsteps of colleague Andrew Peter who took the title in 2013, Lisa came out top in this year’s competition to recognise up-and-coming talent in the butchery world. Graeme Sharp, Marketing Executive at Quality Meat Scotland, said: “Boghall Butchers are at the top of their trade and very deserving of this award.

The Grampian Food Forum Innovation Awards: the hunt has started! Food and drink businesses in Scotland’s north east are being urged to enter the Grampian Food Forum Innovation Awards 2016. The Awards, which are entering their 26th year, recognise excellence and innovation in food and drink in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen City and Moray. The categories include Best New Retail Product, Best New Foodservice Product, Best Young Business, Food and Drink Entrepreneur and Commitment to Health and Wellbeing. Organised by 18

Grampian Food Forum, it is even easier to participate this year with all the information available on the new Forum website. Elizabeth Mathie, Industry Support Executive for Food and Drink at Aberdeenshire Council said: “The north east is a stand out area for food and drink in Scotland and the Innovation Awards have developed as the industry has grown. The Awards provide a fantastic platform to showcase and celebrate outstanding products, www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND innovations and new talent in the sector. We hope the new website will be a useful tool for businesses and will help attract interest from companies that perhaps haven’t entered before.” Past winners have included a huge range of businesses from successful export businesses like Associated Seafoods Ltd to younger businesses like Windswept Brewing Company and family-run organisations such as Castleton Farm Shop. ESS Support Services Worldwide have come onboard as title sponsor for the 2016 Awards, recognising the benefits of raising the profile of the sector and celebrating best practice in Grampian food and

drink. Also supporting this year are; Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen City Council, Ardoe House Hotel, AVC Media, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Johnston Carmichael, Keenan Recycling Ltd, Mackie’s of Scotland, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, Scotland Food & Drink, Scottish Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, The Moray Council, The Press and Journal and Think Local. The closing date for entries is Thursday, January 28 and winners will be announced at a presentation dinner, which will take place on Thursday, March 24 at the Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel and Spa.

Raw Cacao and Coconut Energy Balls

Fresh Local Food At Your Fingertips These are quick and easy healthy snacks to make, are packed full of energy and taste great! They can be stored in the fridge both to harden and for later! 1 cup of medjool dates

1 ½ cups of nuts, I normally use half almonds then make it up with pecans, walnuts etc or just use all almonds 2 tablespoons of chia seeds

1 tablespoon of coconut oil

1- 2 tablespoon of raw cacao powder, depending the hit of cacao you are looking for. I like two.

The first ‘mini farm shop’ vending machine is to be unveiled in Stirling this week during a ten day trial at Forth Valley College. The ‘Get Ready for Local Food’ project, which is part of the Grow Forth Network and run by environmental charity Forth Environment Link, is on a mission to make local food more available and accessible to local people. Stirling has a wealth of food businesses producing a wide range of produce. This scheme is a way to promote what is on our doorstep and get food from Stirling on to plates in Stirling. The vending machine will house a broad variety of local products from different

producers and will be located in Forth Valley College‘s Stirling Campus. Nikki Kenn, Business Project Officer for ‘Get Ready for Local Food’ said: “The machine works just as a normal vending machine, but unlike those you will be familiar with, this one will offer you products such as fresh hand baked bread, locally grown vegetables, free range eggs, local honey and more. “We know that a lot of people love visiting farm shops to buy local produce but not everyone has easy access to them as they tend to be further afield. With the local food vending machine we are offering a mini farm shop in the city.”

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Desiccated coconut, optional

Start by placing the almonds, other nuts if using and chia seeds in your food processor. Blend for 1 minute, or until the nuts have crumbled. Then add the remaining ingredients, pitting the dates before adding those. Blend for another minute until a stick dough forms. Use your hands to roll the mixture into little balls, roll in desiccated coconut if using. Place on a plate and pop into the fridge to harden. Store in the fridge. Makes 15 – 20 balls, depending on size

Sarah Mellersh runs One Day, Two and Four Week Cookery Classes, just 10 minutes from Perth. To find out more :

www.letscookscotland.co.uk Tel : 07932 642605

magazine Supporting

FARMERS MARKETS IN SCOTLAND Aberdeen Country Fair www.aberdeencountryfair. co.uk Alford Farmers’ Market www.spanglefish.com/ alfordfarmersmarket Argyll Country Markets katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Ayrshire Farmers’ Market www.ayrshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Balerno Farmers’ Market www.balernovt.org.uk Blairgowrie Community Market www.strathmoreglens.org Cairndow and Loch Fyne Farmers’ Market katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Campbeltown Farmers’ Market katie@barbreckfarms.co.uk Clarkston Farmers’ Market enquiry@ lanarkshirefarmersmarket. co.uk Cupar Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Dundee Farmers’ Market lorna.mckenzie@dundeecity. gov.uk Dunfermline Farmers’ Market www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Edinburgh Farmers’ Market www.edinburghfarmersmarket. com Edinburgh - Stockbridge Farmers’ Market www.stockbridgemarket.com  Falkirk Farmers’ Market howard.wilkinson2@btinternet. com Fencebay Farmers’ Market fencebay@aol.co.uk Forfar Farmers’ Market www.angusfarmersmarket. co.uk Glasgow Farmers’ Market Mansfield Park www.citymarketsglasgow. co.uk Glasgow Farmers’ Market Queen’s Park www.citymarketsglasgow. co.uk

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

“We hae meat and you can eat!”

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

For your market to be listed mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

‘We hae meat’, an Ayrshirebased family butcher business, are today celebrating success following a £600k supply deal with 50 Co-op stores across Scotland. The deal rounds off a hugely successful year for the firm, run by husband and wife team Alex and Carlyn Paton. In April 2015, the company’s range of ‘revolutionary’ Single Portion Pies secured a £250k deal with Asda Scotland, followed by a £60k supply contract for their newly launched frozen range. The new deal with Coop will see the Girvan-based firm create 6 new jobs at their Cairnhill Farm production plant, adding to an existing workforce of 50 staff. Inspired by a desire to bring butcher shop quality to the convenience of the supermarket, the ‘We hae meat’

range, created exclusively for Co-op, includes Beef Olives, Peppered Steak, Haggis Olives, Spiced Beef and Diced Beef; all made using premium, Quality Assured meat from the family farm. Speaking about the deal, fourth generation farmer and company director, Alex Paton, said: “The deal with Co-op is a great end to what has been a very successful and exciting year for ‘We hae meat’. “We are delighted to be working with over 50 Co-op stores and that this partnership has allowed us to create jobs for local Ayrshire people. “As we begin to look to 2016, we hope to work closely with the Co-op and have the chance to roll out our premium meat products to even more stores across Scotland.”

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O U R FA R M SHOP

Craigie’s Farm Deli and Cafe, just outside South Queensferry, is run by myself, John Sinclair, and my family – my mother, Anne, my wife, Kirsteen and my two children, Sophie and George. The Sinclairs have been farming for over 200 years, ever since my great grandfather, George Sinclair, came to Home Farm, Dalmeny in 1892 as the farm manager. His son John (Jack) took over as Lord Rosebery’s manager in 1931 until he died in 1952. My father, George (the Sinclair’s have never been adventurous with names!), was

only 14 when his father died so he was a bit young to follow in his father’s footsteps, but when he was only 18 Lord Rosebery gave him the tenancy of Bankhead Farm where he farmed for 10 years before getting the tenancy of West Craigie in 1966. West Craigie was originally a dairy farm, selling milk direct to customers in Edinburgh. As the dairy industry became less profitable, my father gave up the dairy and started growing fruit in the mid 1980’s, encouraged and helped by a friend from Alyth. A small farm shop sold fruit,

potatoes, jams and not much more! However, in the early 90’s, we decided to convert a barn for more space to sell our own vegetables and ever-increasing range of jams and the new shop and café has been open since the summer of 2007, doubling in size in 2009 when we added a butchery and much more. Nowadays, visitors flock from around the corner, from Edinburgh and from further afield because we work very hard to provide what we hope is the perfect place for coffee, brunch, a great basket of supper ingredients and some fresh air - all combined with some of the best views in the Lothians! Craigie’s is just a short drive from the very centre of Edinburgh and yet we are proud to offer a delicious taste of the countryside. Whilst Craigie’s is no longer such a well kept secret, it offers excellent space and facilities for anyone looking for a great family day out, a delicious shopping experience, a bite of lunch or all three! We even have a Canine Cafe catering specially for the pooch in your life! Throughout the year we hold and run numerous special events, offers and competitions at Craigie’s including sausage making workshops at the butchery,

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nature and bird-watching weekends, name the new lamb, piglet and calf competitions and much more. The spring and summer are particularly busy times at Craigie’s, with lots going on. Each June LEAF’s Open Farm Weekend (www.farmsunday.org) takes place at the farm and we often work with organisations such as the RSPB and local charities, such as It’s Good to Give, to run family events. The butchery at Craigie’s, which is run by Steve Mitchell of S Mitchell of Auchtertool Farmer and Butcher, famous for his Puddledub Buffalo, has a superb selection of delicious Scottish meats all year round. Summer is of course the right time for some fruit picking! Starting in June, visitors can pick their own strawberries at the farm for jam making, eating fresh or freezing. Later in the summer the raspberries start and there are also gooseberries, blackcurrants, redcurrants and plums to choose from! Delicious! Craigie’s is a superb place to visit, come rain or shine, and you’re always guaranteed a warm welcome. Please come along and see for yourself! Telephone : 0131 319 1048 www.craigies.co.uk 21

TRACTORS

TRACTORS FOR 2016 We take an overview on some of the latest models for the coming year

Case IH Optum CVX Only few days after the launch of the Case IH Optum CVX range and with 249 g/kWh, the stunning new tractor has already started to demonstrate its abilities. Just released recently, results of the renowned DLG PowerMix test give evidence of the Optum’s frugal fuel consumption. “As fuel cost make up a considerable part of total cost of ownership during a tractor’s working life, our engineers have taken the efficiency challenge very seriously. The

whole concept of the Optum CVX range is based on our customers’ requirements, and thus includes top efficiency for sure. That is why we are particularly pleased with the results of the DLG PowerMix”, highlights Andreas Klauser, Case IH President. Neutral, practice-oriented – and a clear recommendation Being the most modern test for fuel consumption throughout Europe, the PowerMix of DLG, the German Agricultural Society,

has a clear focus on reallife conditions. Tests include a combination of drawbar, PTO and hydraulic operations which then are summarised in the PowerMix result. At the same time, compliance with emissions regulations is ensured via thorough measuring of emissions. “The 249 g/kWh result of the Optum CVX is more than convincing. As the results are not generated in laboratory measurements, they are reproducible and comparable

at any time – and can be counter-checked by farmers in their everyday practice”, says Stefan Bogner, Case IH Business Director. “Whilst covering pulling tasks, a mix of pulling tasks and PTO work, as well as a mix of pulling tasks, PTO and hydraulic work, the DLG PowerMix mirrors daily on-farm challenges. When announcing the birth of a new legend with the Case IH Optum CVX, these were the results that we anticipated”, concludes Stefan Bogner.

Challenger ‘s new styling on MT800E Series tracked tractors

Challenger has updated its large tracked tractor styling and increasing the operator comfort package. The new hood design for the MT800E and wheeled and articulated MT900E provides additional working lights in the front grill to provide increased visibility and reduce driver fatigue. Taking its styling from the MT700E launched in 2013, the new hood design improves 22

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natural airflow around the engine compartment allowing the engine to run cooler and improve efficiency. The large one-piece hood lifts upwards, hinging near the windshield, to expose the engine and many service points. With the hood raised, there is full access to the radiators, batteries, engine sides and air filter. Benefits The industry leading AGCO Power 16.8 litres

TRACTORS twelve-cylinder engine now features Hydraulic Valve Lifters. These devices allow for zero valve clearance in engines. Previously solid lifters required scheduled adjustments to maintain a small clearance between the valve lifter and the rocker arm that actually opens the cylinder valves. The updated HVAC on the new E series tractor improves air-conditioning performances even further. Test reports show 10% increase in the cooling capacity within ten minutes cooling from 50째C and 20% after an hour testing*. New insulation materials with higher heat reduction capability has been installed and the airconditioning unit has also been updated. Part of the updates is the new compressor with 15% increased capacity compared to the previous model. New

positioning of the condenser also helps in improving the

operation of the system. The HVAC unit now features a

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riffled evaporator and new vein type fan.

TRACTORS

New addition to the Claas Axion 800 Series CLAAS has added an even more powerful model to its successful AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870, which is equipped as standard with the continuously variable CMATIC transmission. The AXION 870 has up to 295 hp at its disposal thanks to its CPM (CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT) system and is equipped with the tried and tested 6-cylinder FPT engine, which has a 6.7 litre displacement and fulfils the Stage IV (Tier 4) emissions standard. With this new flagship model, CLAAS continues its ongoing programme to develop the AXION 800 model series, which now incorporates six models ranging from 205 to 295 hp. The FPT engine in the AXION 870 uses the CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT (CPM) system. At speeds above

14 km/h and whenever power take-off work is being performed, the system automatically provides additional torque

D-K-R

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Main Dealers for John Deere Tractors

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Westfield, Coulter, Biggar, Lanarkshire ML12 6HN Tel. 01899 220897 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX. 01899 221413 E-Mail: dkrcoulter@hotmail-com 24

and an extra 15hp of power through the electronic engine control system. Overall, the new AXION 870 is 31 hp more powerful compared to the AXION 850 CMATIC, despite having the same operational weight. This makes the AXION 870 suitable for an even larger range of applications in fastmoving field work, for power

take-off work and for road travel. Like the entire AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870 will also be equipped with a new front axle as standard. It is up to 380 kilograms lighter than the previous axle and allows an increase in the permissible gross vehicle weight of up to one tonne.

Deutz -Fahr 9 TTV Series

DEUTZ-FAHR moves into the high power sector with the introduction of the new 9 Series tractors which comprise three models from 290 hp to 340 hp and employ TTV continuously variable transmissions. Offering operator comfort,

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fuel efficiency and low operating costs, these tractors also benefit from a style which has been developed and refined in collaboration with Giugiaro Design. Their clear and decisive lines for the hood, their distinctive cab and generous use

TRACTORS of high quality materials results in an aggressive yet user friendly design which has become the hall mark of the latest DEUTZFAHR tractor developments. The new models provide unequalled performance when working with large, power-sapping ploughs or deep subsoilers as they do

when powering high capacity cultivator drills. Their reliability and economy is truly first class but not, it should be noted, at the expense of versatility or maneuvrability. Power is provided by DEUTZ TTCD 7.8 litre twin turbo six cylinder engines that are compliant with Tier 4

final emission regulations and employ four valves per cylinder. These engines are turbocharged and intercooled and use an integrated electronic control for their DCR (DEUTZ Common Rail) injection system and postprocessing of exhaust gases with SCR catalytic converter and DPF.

A large fuel tank capacity of 600l means uninterrupted days can be spent in the field and a new electronically controlled cooling system ensures that maximum efficiency and low fuel consumption is achieved - which is particularly useful during road transport when ambient temperatures are high.

Fendt 1000 Vario LAMMA 2016 will be the first public showing of the new Fendt 1000 Vario in the UK. The new Fendt 1000 Vario range consists of 4 models (1038 Vario, 1042 Vario, 1046 Vario, 1050 Vario) and is a compact standard high-horsepower tractor ranging from 380 - 500 hp. Its compact design and low unladen weight of 14 tonnes mean it is extremely versatile. The tractor can be used for a range of tasks including

transport work (60 km/h) or heavy PTO work such as wood chipping or mulching as well as more common agricultural tasks such as land preparation. The low unladen weight makes it ideal for work requiring low ground pressure, such as drilling. Thanks to its flexible ballasting concept, the vehicle can be ballasted according to need with up to 50 percent of its base weight. Thanks to its modular equipment options,

with/without rear linkage or rear PTO, and the large number of hydraulic, hitch and linkage variants, it is compatible with all conventional implements, even those of previous high-

horsepower tractors. The Fendt 1000 Vario has been designed for the heaviest draft work which, until now, has been reserved for articulated, tracked and system tractors.

W & A Geddes Ltd Main Dealers for Tractors

JCB’s Fastrac 4000 Series

W & A Geddes Ltd 7 River St, Wick, Caithness. Tel: 01955 602207

Croftbank Garage, Victoria Road, Brora. Tel: 01408 621220

An unprecedented response to the new Fastrac 4000 Series tractor is a measure of how well JCB Agriculture engineers conceived a powerful but nimble tractor with all the traditional advantages and attractions of Fastrac – and then some. The new design – available with three power outputs from 175-235hp – has been so well received that orders are more than a third up on the most optimistic early forecast. It is clear, then, that the tractor’s unique combination of size, performance, control and

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comfort has clearly struck a chord with new and seasoned Fastrac users alike. Baling, cultivating, spraying, silage-making, ploughing, trailer work – the new Fastrac 4000 Series has been in action with first users across a wide range of applications, as befits a tractor with versatility one of its key attributes. It builds on core Fastrac features such as multiple implement mounting points giving the ultimate in versatility, sophisticated allround suspension for fast

TRACTORS

Agricultural Merchants

operating speeds, and a highspecification braking system for safety, stability and comfort. Four-wheel steering results in nimble headland turns, bigger tyres improve flotation

and traction, and sophisticated suspension not only keeps the tractor on an even keel but makes it possible to ‘squat’ under demountable equipment for quicker and easier implement change-over.

John Deere’s new four-track 9RX Series tractors

Visit our website for new and used tractor & machinery stock lists and older model/refurb parts lists

www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Sparrowhawk Road, Hatston Industrial Estate Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1GE

Tel: 01856 873003 / 872490 Email: info@jandwtaitltd.co.uk

John Deere has introduced its first-ever four-track tractor, adding to its extensive range of high horsepower 9R Series wheeled and 9RT Series two-track tractors.

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The four new 9RX tractor models – which range from 470 to 620 engine horsepower – feature a large, robust undercarriage and track system engineered to provide

TRACTORS superior power, durability and improved ride quality, especially when handling large implements in the field. The 9RX undercarriage features a positive-drive track system that effectively delivers more power to the ground. This is ideal for heavy draft applications such as cultivating, ploughing, discing and ripping, subsoiling and large-scale drilling applications. The new 9470RX and 9520RX tractors are powered by 13.5-litre John Deere PowerTech PSS engines, whereas the 9570RX and 9620RX use 15-litre Cummins QSX engines. Featuring cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enhanced turbocharger technology, diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, both engine makes are compliant with Stage IV/Final Tier 4 emission regulations and are designed to provide the torque and power to handle the toughest field conditions.

Landini extendeds choice of mid-range tractors

Sales and Repairs on all Agricultural Machinery also Manufacturers of Specialist Equipment Main Dealers for Massey Ferguson and Fendt

Also GREGOIRE BESSON • SULKY • VOGEL & NOOT KRONE • SUMO • NC • STRAUTMANN MERLO • CHALLENGER Main Office: WINDMILL WAY WEST, RAMPARTS BUSINESS PARK, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED, TD15 1TB Tel: 01289 331904 Fax: 01289 331530 Also at: PINNACLEHILL IND. ESTATE, KELSO, TD5 8DW Tel: 01573 225213 Fax: 01573 226214 and MACMERRY, EAST LOTHIAN Tel: 01875 617323 Fax 01875 615130

The Landini 6C Series which replaced the popular Powermondial in 2015 now comprises three models with the addition of a more powerful version with up to 140hp on tap. Like the 111hp and 121hp models, the new Landini 6-140C gets extra power when travelling on the road or operating a pto-driven field implement like a muck spreader or power cultivator. Then, the 6-120C’s 111hp output goes to 121hp; the 6-130C’s climbs from 121hp to 133hp; and the 6-140C is elevated from 130hp to 140hp – a strong output for a tractor of this size. To make best use of the performance potential and suit different applications, all three models can have four-speed pto – that’s with ‘power’ and ‘economy’ settings for both 540rpm and 1000rpm – and two levels of specification. Base models have 66-litre/ min open centre gear pump

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hydraulics with an extra 30-litres/ min for the steering; 34in rear tyres; and a 40kph T-Tronic 36x12 transmission with threestep powershift operated by a thumb switch on the gear lever. A power shuttle with adjustable response is standard, giving fingertip control of forward and reverse selection. Choosing the higherspec ‘LS’ version brings a more sophisticated 110-litre/ min closed centre hydraulics system that pumps only on demand; taller 38in tyres for added grip and floatation; and a choice of 40kph Eco or 50kph transmissions that get the tractor to its destination fast using less fuel. The higher-spec version can also be equipped with hydraulic independent wishbone front axle suspension for the ultimate in ride and traction, along with mechanical cab suspension, which is also an option on the base version.

TRACTORS

Massey Ferguson 75hp - 95hp MF 4700 Series Cab Tractors

W & A Geddes Ltd Main Dealers for

Tractors

Massey Ferguson has announced the launch of three new Cab Tractor models in the MF 4700 Series. These class leading 75hp, 85hp and 95hp standard farm tractors are the first completely new tractors to have been developed in recent times specifically for this highly demanding multi-purpose sector.

Designed and built using the latest computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques, these three new models offer the most up-to-date equipment and specifications in their class to exceed the wide range of requirements of these varied and multi-purpose users. “Designed by Engineers in Massey Ferguson’s Beauvais facility, the MF 4700 Series are not only completely new tractors, they also introduce an entirely original concept in modern tractor development,” says Campbell Scott, Director, Marketing Services. “The MF 4700 are the first, and only, tractors available that have been designed in the 21st Century to deliver the straightforward, rugged and reliable operation for users in the 75hp to 130hp sector. “They not only introduce modern technology to this size of tractor for the first time, but they are also purpose-built for this important sector. And, of course, they benefit from over half a Century of Massey Ferguson’s experience of producing pioneering, straightforward and dependable tractors,” he adds.

Spacious cab for new McCormick X4C tractors

W & A Geddes Ltd

7 River St, Wick, Caithness. Tel: 01955 602207 Croftbank Garage, Victoria Road, Brora. Tel: 01408 621220

Apart from the GM compact and F Series orchard tractors, the all-new X4C models are the smallest tractors in the McCormick range. Designed for applications that do not demand a lot of power but where light weight and compact dimensions are important characteristics, the tractors offer a choice of four power outputs. Latest Deutz engines with good fuel economy and simple emissions control technology feature under the bonnet of the 64hp X4.20C, 69hp X4.30C and 76hp X4.40C. The 75hp X4.35C has a Perkins engine to

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the preceding emissions standard, which gives it a distinct price advantage while stocks last. “The McCormick X4C design is unlike anything we’ve had in the range before,” points out McCormick product specialist Paul Wade at GB distributor AgriArgo UK. “These are thoroughly modern tractors with a great choice of features and specifications to suit different users and applications.” Among those spec choices are two- or four-wheel drive; an open platform or modern driver’s cab; a Speed Four 12x12 or 16x16 creep transmission; synchro or

TRACTORS

power shuttle; and 2.7 tonne or 3.4 tonne linkage capacity. Hydraulic resources are provided by a 49-litre/min gear pump supplemented by a 28-litre/

min pump dedicated to steering – equivalent to a 77-litre/min combined system. “The designers at Argo Tractors have given a lot of

attention to the cab for the McCormick X4C tractors to ensure it provides a comfortable and practical workplace,” says Paul Wade. “It’s quite a challenge

making a cab to fit a small tractor that’s in proportion but gives the operator plenty of space and good visibility – but the designers have achieved that.”

New Holland’s T7.290 and T7.315 Tractors

New Holland expands its tractor offering with two brand new models, the T7.290 and 34

T7.315, to meet the demand for growers needing increased power, but the versatility to

perform numerous jobs. These new T7 series tractors deliver power without compromise,

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class-leading torque and high efficiency. These models offer growers unparalleled versatility for performing a wide range of field and haulage jobs. Primary and secondary cultivations, drilling, baling, mowing and haulage tasks all fall within the capabilities of these new T7 models. The Horizon cab provides a quiet and supremely comfortable operating environment, along with precision technology that enables growers to optimize efficiency and performance, while staying connected with their entire farming operation. These new models also feature New Holland’s revolutionary IntelliCruise™ tractor-baler automation that allows the New Holland BigBaler to control the tractor’s speed according to changes in the windrow to maximise productivity and bale consistency.

TRACTORS “These new models are perfect for farming operations that need the power of a largeframe tractor with the versatility

of a medium-frame unit,” explains Sean Lennon, Head of Tractors, Telehandlers and PLM Product Management. “They

can take on tasks that you would usually associate with a larger tractor while having the features to deliver great efficiency for

PTO implements and transport work. They are ideal for farms and contractors whose tractors have to multi task.”

Same’s new independent front tractor suspension SAME has launched a unique independent front tractor suspension system that increases stability and improves operator safety across most terrains, and is ideally suited to working in challenging terrain such as in vineyards and fruit orchards. ActiveDrive tractors utilise technology seen previously only on the company’s premium models but now with the addition of fully integrated hydraulic and electronic systems, offering levels of precision unlike anything else in this class. ActiveDrive tractors are available as both S versions for fruit orchards with narrow rows and V versions for vineyards.

There is a choice of five different engines from 80hp (three cylinders) to 110hp (four cylinders), which covers an extensive power range to cater for the needs of a wide variety of applications. Two hydraulic cylinders, the linkages between the two independent front suspension arms and the front axle carrier, two speed sensors, two position sensors, a steering sensor and three nitrogen accumulators work together to ensure smooth suspension action for a safe, comfortable drive in all surface conditions. The electronic system analyses the motion and speed of the pistons together with tractor speed and steering angle data.

WILKS BROTHERS Main dealers in Perthshire for DEUTZ FAHR Tractors

This keeps the suspension ideally levelled independently of the load on the front axle, allowing the

suspension itself to make use of all the entire damping travel available to ensure effective anti-roll control.

FOR QUALITY NEW & USED TRACTORS... Contact the Reekie Group

Selection of Used Tractors available or due in shortly

Bringing you 5, 6, 7 and the latest 9 Series Tractors

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

Ex Hire MF 6616/4wd,15 Reg c/w loader, choice of two MF 5470/4wd, 13 Reg, Dyna-4,CCLS,420/85R38, choice of four Fendt 820/4wd, 57 Reg MF 8450/4wd, 57 Reg MF 4245/4wd, X Reg MF 6480/4wd, choice MF 7495/4wd 06 Reg MF 5465/4wd, 09 Reg

Contact your local branch for more details Cupar 01334 652445

Branches at Stirling Perth 01786 477530 01738 622471 or visit our website

www.reekie.co.uk

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TRACTORS

Siromer flatpack Tractors Siromer are the compact tractor company. Arriving on the scene in 1999, Siromer’s unique selling point is to offer the majority of their models flatpack, which gives customers the option of building their own tractor. The current Siromer lineup is split into three ranges, as follows. The CH Range, home of Siromer’s high powered compact tractors. Launched in 2014, the CH range has been popular with large smallholdings, farms and equestrian centres. Comprising of two models, the 404CH and 504CH, Siromer have engineered a tractor capable of handling extra power through manufacturing heavy duty axles, adding efficient wet braking systems and a robust 12 speed shuttle gearbox. This gives the tractors

an impressive spec, including a lift capacity of nearly two tonne. Siromer’s 504CHcan be fitted with a cab and users get the choice of agricultural or turf tyres on either model. Siromer’s EU Range spans 16-35HP. Featuring four models all with high/low or creeper gearboxes, the EU range is popular with people looking to work their land. The 164E (16HP 4WD) is the standout model in the range as the sub-compact tractor is yours for less than £4000 (excluding the VAT of course). The remainder of the range consists of a 204E (20HP 4WD), 244E (24HP 4WD) and 354E (35HP 4WD), all of which have the additional benefit of twin double acting spools, which you’ll need if you’re operating hydraulic shift equipment. The 204E

(20HP 4WD) and 244E (24HP 4WD) are identical to the eye as the two tractors differ only due to an engine tweak that gives the 244E an xtra 4HP. The 354E is the largest tractor

in the range and features a four cylinder engine (compared to 3 cylinders in all other models). Should you opt for a 354E you’ll also get draft control on your rear linkage.

GEORGE COLLIAR LTD Kinross

Tel: 01577 863173

Tel: 01651 806910

Schoolbrae Garage, Methlick, Ellon AB41 7DS

www.marrsofmethlick.com

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TRACTORS

Tafe tractors imported by Tractors UK

Anyone looking for a tractor would do well to consider the TAFE range of tractors. Based on a UK design, the tractors are ideally suited for a wide range of uses including yard scraping, equestrian, forestry or hobby farming where a basic, simple and reliable tractor is required. The range is available in 37, 47 or 60hp with power steering on all models with the exception of our Classic model. Options include, oil immersed brakes, four wheel drive & /or roll bar or safety Q cab. Also available a choice of front end loaders & attachments. Prices start from as little as £10,250 + VAT. The long term costing worked out by an existing customer with 3 tractors

totalling 35,000 hours is £190 per 1,000 hours of use for spares (figure excludes routine service filters) making the choice of buying new exceptionally good value for money. All new tractors come with a 2 year (maximum 1000 hrs) parts and labour warranty. For the mechanically minded user you can even opt to carry out your own servicing/repairs with a telephone / spares back up support from Tractors UK. Tractors UK have been the sole importers of the Indian built tractors since 1999 & have seen many customers come back for their 2nd & even 3rd tractor to replace old MF 35 , 135 & 240 models where multi dairy units are operated.

Valtra’s brand new N Series The Valtra N Series has entered its fourth generation. The fourcylinder N Series now boasts many of the same features appreciated by customers as found on its big brother, the sixcylinder T Series, which reached its fourth generation a year ago.

The new T Series has proven to be a success, and now the same successful concept is being introduced in the smaller class of tractors that now has even more compact dimensions than before. The new N Series boasts an AGCO Power – Tier4 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

TRACTORS Final engine producing up to 185 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque. Valtra has been a pioneer in manufacturing highoutput four-cylinder tractors. Since 1969 when the Valmet 1100 model was introduced with the world’s first turbocharged four-cylinder tractor engine generating an impressive 115 horsepower, Valtra has produced some of the most powerful fourcylinder tractors in the world through its M and N Series tractors. The new cab on the fourth generation N Series is similar

to that on the new T Series. The cab offers excellent visibility in all directions (with up to 6.5 square metres of glass) and it is extremely quiet (<70 db). The cab can be comprehensively specified, for example with a high-end stereo with integrated woofer, a front windscreen wiper that covers 270 degrees, heated front and rear screens, and a TwinTrac reverse drive system. Customers who do a lot of front loader work may specify an extra window in the roof that offers an unobstructed view to the implement when the loader is in its highest position.

TRACTOR DEALERS KEY Participating Dealers in this feature CASE J&W Tait www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall, Orkney : 01856 873003 W & A Geddes Wick : 0 1955 602207 Thurso : 01847 891651 Brora : 01408 621220 Wm Rose & Son www.wmrose.co.uk West Linton : 01968 660777 East Linton : 01620 860348 CHALLENGER Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 CLAAS W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Thurso : 01847 891651 Brora : 01408 621220 DEUTZ-FAHR Mark Garrick Tractors www.markgarricktractors. co.uk Elgin : 01343 551637 38

Wilks Brothers Murthly : 01738 710381 William Kerr Tractors www.williamkerrtractors.com Ayr : 01292 267376 FENDT 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 JOHN DEERE DKR Agricultural Services www.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagri Biggar : 01899 220897 MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282 LANDINI George Colliar Ltd Middle Balado : 01577 863173

Marrs of Methlick www.marrsofmethlick.com Metlick : 01651 806910

Bryson Tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888

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

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

Balgownie Ltd www.balgownieltd.co.uk Inverurie : 01467 621493

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

Reekie Group  www.reekie.co.uk  Stirling : 01786 477530  Perth : 01738 622471  Cupar : 01334 652445 McCORMICK Mearns Tractors www.mearns-tractors.co.uk Laurencekirk : 01561 377762 NEW HOLLAND Agricar www.agricar.co.uk Forfar : 01307 462281 Perth : 01738 583249 Laurencekirk : 01561 378888 Dundonald : 01563 851900 Stirling : 01786 430970

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William Kerr Tractors www.williamkerrtractors.com Ayr : 01292 267376 TAFE Tractors UK www.tractorsuk.co.uk Sturminster Newton : 01258 817372 ZETOR Marrs of Methlick www.marrsofmethlick.com Metlick : 01651 806910

EU NEWS By Chris McCullough

Change to pesticide application laws mean no more ‘grandfather rights’ Anyone in Scotland or elsewhere in the EU who apply pesticides must now hold a certificate allowing them to do so legally. Recent changes to EU rules now mean all operators must carry an approved certificate, even those born before 1964. Prior to the rule change any operator born before December 31, 1964 was exempt from holding a certificate to apply pesticides in what was known as ‘grandfather rights.’ However, that exemption is now gone and any farmer or contractor operating on their own land or that of an employer without the required certificate is doing so illegally.

According to the EU it is also an offence for anyone to purchase pesticides for professional use unless the purchaser has ensured whoever is applying the chemicals has the required certificate. Products covered by the new regime include insecticides, fungicides, slug pellets/molluscicides, plant growth regulators, soil sterilants, and herbicides which are authorised for professional use. Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: “By their nature, professional pesticides require careful handling and an appropriate level of training.

“These changes in the law emphasise the need for pesticide users to take all reasonable precautions when using these chemicals to ensure when used properly they are effective, and safe for human health, including the user, wildlife and the environment. “These new legal requirements from the EU are being phased in over a number of years, and have been publicised by the Scottish Government and industry organisations, so should not come as a surprise to any users of professional pesticides.” Andrew Bauer from NFU Scotland said: “As the deadline for the expiry of grandfather

rights is now upon us, it is essential that all farmers, if they haven’t done so already, take action to ensure that they remain compliant with the law and can buy and apply the PPPs that they need. “Here in Scotland there are relatively few providers of the training and certification that farmers need, and they are all based on the east coast. “For those in the west and north, it may be more economical for them to club together with neighbouring farmers to seek the necessary training or certification - that way spreading the costs of getting the trainer or tester to their part of the country.”

Thousands of Scottish farmers saved from endless EU form filling Scottish farmers can relax their pens when it comes to filling in forms under EU regulations as the government says it is reducing red tape. Efforts by the government to drive down the amount of red tape coming from Brussels has been successful, it says, meaning thousands of Scottish farmers have fewer forms to fill in.. Under EU rules, livestock keepers are required to provide information to the Scottish Government each year. This has previously been collected through the Sheep and Goat Annual Inventory in

January as well as the annual December Agricultural Survey. In line with Brian Pack’s recommendations on reducing red tape, the Scottish Government has now merged the surveys, which means 5,700 livestock keepers only have to complete one form instead of two. And, for the first time, farmers will also have the option this year of submitting their returns online through the SCOTEID website, although paper forms will continue to be sent out if needed. Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “The Scottish Government is firmly

committed to cutting red tape for farmers and crofters, whose focus should be on producing food for our tables rather than filling in forms. “To reduce the bureaucratic burden we already source agricultural census data from the Single Application Form and Cattle Tracing System. “Now, in line with Brian Pack’s recommendations, we have gone one step further and merged the Sheep and Goat Annual Inventory with the December Agricultural Survey. This change will benefit almost 6,000 livestock keepers who’ve

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previously had to fill in two forms every year. “We’re also giving farmers for the first time this year the option of submitting this information online. These new changes should make it easier, simpler and quicker for farmers to meet their legal requirements under EU rules. “The Scottish Government and our agencies, through the RAFE Delivery Board, will continue to seek further ways of reducing red tape for Scottish agriculture both here at home and to push for greater action at EU level.” 39

Austria Working together for the greater food By Fiona Sloan

WORLD FARMING Austria is a land locked nation bordered by Germany, The Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Italy, Hungary and Switzerland. It is well known as a wonderful tourist destination for skiing in the famous Alps and culture in the cities such as Vienna and Graz. Austrian agriculture works in harmony with its tourist industry and is the foundation for the picture postcard farmland, which covers 87% of the country, amounting to 6 ½ million hectares of fields and forestry. Like other EU states, Austria’s farming population has decreased

from 40% in the 1950’s to 4% today, with an average annual farming income of 18,000 euros with over half of farmers working part-time. However, the new agricultural sector in Austria is young, well-educated and increasingly female, culminating in the highest ratio of farmers under the age of 25 in the EU. University educated young farmers need to not only farm the land but be business managers and product developers as well. Many of the traditional faming enterprises in Austria are increasingly concerned

with adding value to their products. Produce like Pumpkin seed oil, air dried ham and schnapps are often grown and produced on the same farm, ensuring that local produce is available to 87% of Austrian consumers. This helps to ensure that with 22% of farming income coming from public funding, three quarters of the Austrian public think that this support is justified, to ensure the quality of food they can buy locally. Strict controls and standards ensure that the raw food and its’s produce is of an exceptionally high quality, for

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which the country has become famous. Despite the part time nature and size of the farms, 75% being in less favoured areas, the country is 100% self-sufficient in milk, meat and grain. In 1995 Austria’s agricultural exports amounted to 1.8 billion Euros; today it is 9 billion. An average Austrian farm is three times smaller than an average Danish farm or seven times smaller than their Czech neighbours but each Austrian farmer provides 70 people with food. In 1970 an industrial worker

WORLD FARMING had to work seven minutes to buy a litre of milk and now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only four. For the grain to produce f flour, farmers only receive 3% of the cost of buying a loaf of bread. Agriculture supports 400,000 jobs in Austria and the production value of the farming and forestry in the country is 8 billion Euros, a trend which is ascending. Tourism, particularly around the 8,700 alpine pastures, is all about the foods being produced in areas of outstanding natural beauty. The culinary delights of the Austrian alps, encourage people to return over and over again to enjoy the food and the scenery, which is integral to the image if the country and maintained by an agricultural population whose diversification has allowed both industries to work together for the greater good. With a 30% increase in demand for organic food over in the past five years, almost 20% of farms in Austria are organic, making the Austrian farmers pioneers in Europe, in the push for more organic produce. The farming ethos of this country allows small and medium sized farms to continue and thrive and with its self-sufficiency in primary

foods, ensures economic stability, at a time when crisis throughout the world are having an impact one way or another on many of its neighbours. The cultivation, not only of produce but of ideas and developments, is ensuring that

Austrian agriculture is not only supporting itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farmers but supporting its population, who are rightly proud of the quality and diversification of food it produces, to support local tourism, which is of such great economic importance. Like

farmers in many countries, they are custodians of the land but they are also forward thinkers, introducing new quality products which are adding value to both industries and who are enjoying the support of a nation in doing so.

New UK-China research collaboration on food security and agriculture The impact and reach of Scottish research and expertise

in the area of food security and agriculture has been recognised

at the highest international level with the signature of a formal

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collaboration between the James Hutton Institute and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS). The deal, which also involves the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, sets the seal on a working relationship with the 7000-strong Chinese institution that has been established and nurtured over recent years as China seeks to address major challenges to its agriculture and food production. The memorandum of agreement was signed on Wednesday (25 November) at the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology headquarters in Wallingford by representatives of the James Hutton Institute, CEH and Vice Minister of Agriculture and President of Chinese Academy of 41

WORLD FARMING Agricultural Sciences, Professor Li Jiayang. The participation of such a high-ranking Chinese official in the signing ceremony is a testament to the importance of the collaboration. The three organisations will co-operate on research in a number of areas including: • Improving the productivity and water use efficiency of new crop varieties • Improving soil fertility, environmental resilience and nutrient flows for crop productivity

• Optimizing fertilizer management to reduce environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions from the farmed environment (crop and animal husbandry) • Control of pests, diseases and weeds • Sustainable production systems • Remediation/restoration of polluted environments • Climate impacts and adaptation for farming systems The memorandum of agreement will facilitate bilateral exchange of research scientists,

the development of collaborative research programmes, and the appointment of joint studentships. Professor Li Jiayang, Vice Minister of Agriculture and President of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said, “We are very excited to have the opportunity to sign this memorandum of agreement with the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology and the James Hutton Institute. Food security and agricultural standards are big issues in China. International co-operation is an essential

part of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences mission, and this agreement is an important addition to our international network. We look forward to active collaboration, especially through the exchange of scientists and joint funding activity.” Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Research Impact at the James Hutton Institute, said: “I am really delighted that today we formally recognise our ongoing scientific collaboration and technology exchange between our countries.

Sugar cane harvesting sweeter in Ayr, Australia Green Acre Harvesting recently purchased three new twin-steer Isuzu FYH trucks equipped with Allison 4430 six-speed fully automatic transmissions to simplify driver recruitment and improve transportation efficiency for its cane harvest. Until recently, success of the heavy-duty Isuzu rigids with the Allison 4000 Series™ automatic transmission had primarily been in construction, concrete mixer and road tipper

applications. However, the use of the Isuzu FYH automatic in transporting harvested sugar cane underlines the versatility of the overall package and its ability to be adapted for a number of vocations. As a long time sugar producer based near Ayr, owner Richard Galea has seen significant advances in technology. From heavily labour-intensive manual cane cutting by teams of men wielding long knives to today’s

fully-automated harvesting with modern automatic diesel trucks to transport the cane, efficiencies have greatly improved. Galea purchased the new automatic Isuzus to work on the cane harvest, which runs each year from June until November and will see more than 146,000 tons of sugar harvested from close to 4,000 farmland acres annually. “One of our biggest challenges is recruiting drivers,” said Galea. “The automatics

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allow us to hire drivers that might not be as experienced or skilled. We can train them and will not have to worry about damaged clutches and drivelines, which was a problem with our old manual trucks.” The Allison-equipped Isuzus replaced three ageing Volvo F7 manual trucks and in the four months since joining Green Acres, each of the Isuzus has travelled more than 10,000 miles and logged 1,400 hours of operation.

WORLD FARMING

Trelleborg receives AGCO 2015 Best Quality Performance Award in China Trelleborg is named AGCO 2015 ‘Best Quality Performance’ for China and received the AGCO EAME 2015 ‘Supplier of the Year’ in the “Logistics” category. Paolo Pompei, President Agricultural & Forestry Tyres at Trelleborg Wheel Systems, says: “This double recognition of Trelleborg as a partner to AGCO is an exceptional achievement for us and a testament to the commitment that we share with AGCO; to improve the efficiency, productivity and sustainability of future farming. We are extremely proud of these awards since they acknowledge the huge efforts Trelleborg is making to support joint-initiatives with AGCO.” The ‘Best Quality Performance’ award in China was presented on November 19, at AGCO’s Chinese facility in Chanzhou, during the first local AGCO supplier day. The theme of the day was: ‘Working together today to achieve extraordinary results for tomorrow”.

At the award ceremony, Sandy Luo, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager China at Trelleborg Wheel Systems Agricultural and Forestry Tyres, received the ‘2015 Best Quality Performance’ award from Josip Tomasevic, VP, Global Purchasing & Material AGCO. Tomasevic commented: “Trelleborg is one of the technology leaders for innovative solutions on the market; providing comfort, safety and improving sustainable farming. The implementation of Trelleborg’s manufacturing footprint, matching with AGCO’s strategy, allows Trelleborg to develop reactivity towards our customers’ requirements. Trelleborg has supported AGCO’s global platform strategy since 2011, when it opened a manufacturing facility in China for AGCO’s Global series tractors, proving its full support to ACGO’s plan to expand production in China in the coming years.”

Ancona® v rtu provides US growers with strong season start in wet or dry conditions Ancona® v rtu provides US growers with strong season start in wet or dry conditions As spring wheat growers begin planning for a strong start to their season, Arysta LifeScience North America announces RANCONA V RTU – a new seed protectant developed to enhance germination, stimulate growth and improve crop vitality. The formulation allows cereals growers with fields of varying soil moisture levels to beat impending weather and give their crops the jump-start they need for a successful year. It helps growers protect their seeds while they germinate and helps seedlings emerge even in drier soil conditions, resulting in established stands and healthy growth before the cold weather rolls in.”

Disease Protection RANCONA V RTU combines three active ingredients, Ipconazole, Carboxin and Metalaxyl, making it one of the most comprehensive and effective seed treatments on the market. It delivers a broad spectrum of disease protection for plants through both contact and systemic activity. This allows it to provide both curative and preventative disease control during germination and seedling development. Enhanced Germination and Growth RANCONA V RTU protects seeds against all five major classes of fungi, including seed rot, damping off and seedling blights, by using a low rate that is safe to the seed.

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Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink My ambition for Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink was to create a lasting legacy for food production in this country. To see the people of Scotland, and our visitors, celebrate our outstanding natural larder with an increased consumption of Scottish produce – in particular, seasonal produce. And to see even greater ambition and investment in the food and drink industry, with the benefits felt right throughout the supply chain. It is thanks to hard work of our farmers, processors and producers that Scotland’s food and drink sector is such a phenomenal success story – with turnover smashing through the £14 billion barrier for the first time. And with our premium produce continuing to be in high demand at home and across the world, there is the potential to achieve even greater growth in domestic and international markets. We have a wealth of hardworking farmers, producers and processors who deserve recognition for this. But not all producers are feeling the benefit. That is something I want to change. Clearly, it can’t be achieved overnight but the work that took place in 2015 will help lay the foundations for a stronger future. Our dairy sector, for example, continues to suffer from low milk prices caused by global market volatility and other supply-chain pressures. In response, the Scottish Government has supported industry to develop and launch the new Scottish Dairy Brand, to increase exports of added value premium dairy products. We are also working hard to encourage new investment in the processing sector. I have also called on retailers and food businesses

By Richard Lochhead Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment

to consider switching their sourcing policy and support Scottish producers. Some great examples include the Aroma coffee chain in NHS Scotland sites - which has committed to sourcing 100 per cent Scottish milk – as well as Edinburgh Airport, which has signed up to a Scottish Food and Drink Pledge to become Scotland’s first ‘Provenance Airport’, and Brakes who have committed to doubling their sourcing of Scottish food. This is a great start but I want others to follow their example. And Scottish farmers can help lead the way. In the Future of Scottish Agriculture discussion document I set out my vision for a more productive, prosperous and profitable farming sector – a future where producers are able to respond swiftly to market opportunities and challenges to reap the benefits of the global demand for Scotland’s premium and greener produce, and where their contribution to Scottish society is valued by all. Those conversations are still underway, and I continue to welcome contributions.

LAURIE & SYMINGTON

No matter where you are in Scotland or indeed the UK, there isn’t a livestock farmer around who wouldn’t know the name Lawrie & Symington. The famous Lanark auction company has been around for over 150 years and in that time has gone from strength to strength. From a time when the most important sale of the year was the Clydesdale horse sale, to the pedigree, store and stock breeding market of today, Lawrie & Symington Ltd, have been at the forefront of auctioneering in Scotland. By Fiona Sloan

“There’s a lot of history to Lawrie and Symington.” explains the Managing Direction, Hamish McCall, “The business really has been involved in livestock auctioneering - among other things - for an extremely long period of time, so we’ve seen a lot of changes and developments in our time and envisage many more to come in the future.” On September 24th 1867 Mr Lawrie, who had been in business locally as an Auctioneer and his nephew Mr Symington, first held a

livestock auction in Lanark. In 1876 Mr Symington started a weekly sale of stock on a Monday and these have continued ever since, with sales of primestock, Dairy Cattle and Calves. Mondays are now regarded within the farming fraternity as the traditional market day. Mondays in the market town of Lanark have always been the traditional day when farmers and their families come to the town and the weekly shop and trading is done. Children have grown up

on farmers breeding rabbits, guinea pigs and poultry and rearing them to sell at the Bank Holiday market, when the school holidays allowed them to sell their produce and earn their pocket money. It was an early lesson in cost of production, which will have stuck with them as they grew into their faming future! In 1886 William Elliot, an enterprising son of Borders farmer, Walter Elliot of Holybush, bought the firm and became Chairman and

Lawrie & Symington’s Head Office in Lanark

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Chief Auctioneer in 1910 and in 1928 Mr Elliot decided to turn the business into a public company, with a capital of £60,000. He remained Chairman and appointed some local farmers and colleagues to the very first Board of Directors. Unfortunately he was not to enjoy the fruits of his labours as he died suddenly in 1929. His Son, Walter Elliot inherited the shareholdings of his father and at the same time Dr James Watt, WS, who was a senior partner in the firm

LAURIE & SYMINGTON

A crowded ring for one of the store cattle sales

of Davidson & Syme W S in Edinburgh, was appointed Chairman of the Company. Year by year livestock numbers increased and the reputation of the firm and staff grew. In 1928 Mr Ian Clark was invited to join the Company to assist Walter Elliot in the management and as Chief Auctioneer and continued in that capacity until 1975. In 1936 the market in Peebles was bought and rebuilt on South Parks and opened in 1939 holding regular sales until its closure in 1997 when the site was developed. The company still owns 60 acres at South Parks, Peebles. In 1945, Dr Watt retired from the Chairmanship of the Company and the now Honourable Walter Elliot MC, MP became Chairman until his death in 1958. During the 1940’s Lanark started to hold periodic sales for tractors and implements on the back of the push for food during and immediately after the war. Such was the success of these sales, which were originally held on a Monday afternoon following the livestock mart, they eventually demanded a day of their own and while there are around eighteen sales annually, the third Thursday of the month

is always Lanark Implement Sale day. The implement sale attracts people from all over the UK and Ireland and has become a must for anyone, famers or not who need anything from a few panels of fencing wood to a second hand tractor. Implement sale day has always been the “mens’ day out” at Lanark when many farmers take a break and go to meet their friends in the restaurant or bar to catch up. The “old Market” was originally established at the top of the town and to this day the iconic circular livestock ring, where the sheep were traditionally sold still stands. The restaurant at Lanark was as famous for its food, particularly its ox tail soup, as the bar was for the Blackie sale days, when it was heaving with hill shepherds and breeders on their annual soiree. A get together second to none, which would often go into the wee sma’ hours and demanded the attention of the shepherds, breeders, auctioneers and directors alike to celebrate together what has become the highlight of the sale year at Lanark. There have been and still are many famous sales

held in both the old and new markets. From its early days as an auction mart, the main sale at the turn of the century, when the tractor was still in its infancy, was the sale of Clydesdale horses, which took place every October and in 1919 the sale lasted for seven days when 2,681 horses were sold at an overall figure of £130,000. Many of these magnificent animals, which originated from the local Lanarkshire area, were exported to New Zealand and Australia and later to America as working and draught horses and are renowned as the horse which built Australia. Since the days of the Clydesdale sales, Lanark has developed as the main sheep centre for pedigree stock in Scotland. With its central location and within 15 minutes of the M74, part of the arterial route north to south through the country, it makes an ideal place for sheep farmers from the north of Scotland to the Borders to travel. Sitting in the midst of one of the main stock rearing areas in Scotland, it is ideally situated to serve the farmers not only from a distance but also those locally, who have been the life blood of

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the market over the years. The directorship of the market has always had a local base and has had a commercial outlook on this traditional farming centre, allowing it to develop and not be held back by the tradition which has also made it so successful. When a group of farmers, many from Lanarkshire got together in the early 1970’s to discuss the future of the farming industry, they took the view that while our traditional farming methods had served us well over the years, there was an opportunity to look further afield at breeds which could be used to develop Scotland’s stratified sheep system and could potentially produce faster growing and finishing cattle and sheep. This resulted in looking overseas to France in particular and in 1974, the first Texel sheep were imported into the country. These sheep were very different from the Blackface, Border Leicester and the crossbred Greyface sheep, which had dominated our livestock system and the sale ring at Lanark over the years and it was going to be a brave man to stick his neck out and take the chance on these very new and very different animals. Lawrie & Symington however, backed their customers to the hilt and in 1975 held the first ever Texel Sheep Sale at Lanark. Since then the Texel Sheep Society has held its annual Scottish National Sale at the market and the influence of the breed on the UK sheep industry has justified the market’s support in the early days. The top price at this year’s sale was 70,000gns following a top 147,000gns in 2014 and the centre holds the world record not only for Texels but for all breeds when a ram lamb made 220,000gns in August 2009. The Blackface command a rousing trade every year with a top to date of 100,000gns at the centre. While the success of Lanark market was unquestionable, by the late 1990’s it had become 45

LAWRIE & SYMINGTON

Texel Judging gets underway at the Premier Texel Sale

obvious that it needed to develop further due to the pressures of increasing sales in

livestock and machinery. The premises in the town were sold for development and the new

market was officially opened on 14th May 2004 at Muirglen on the south side of the town, having been built specifically for the purpose of contending with the rigours of modern day livestock auctioneering. The state of the art Livestock Centre can comfortably accommodate 2500 head of cattle or 13,000 sheep on any one sale day, with two purpose built sale rings as permanent features and the option to add more within the penning area, which is also used as a judging ring on pedigree days prior to the sale. “It’s built for purpose” says Hamish “and is ideal for all of the activities that go on here. On a day to day basis it is massively more suitable than the older, traditional site in the town.” The market currently employs over thirty full time staff with over 40 additional staff being employed at seasonal times and during busy periods. As well as the livestock sales facilities, it also houses a country shop, which employs four to five people. There currently seven auctioneers and numerous office staff and facilities both

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for the market and associated businesses. Its location on the outskirts of the town has ideal access for everyone and often hosts dog, pony and fur and feather shows at the weekends. The whole area has been developed into a vast agriculturally based centre and houses many complimentary businesses, including the local vets. “We do find that a lot of our staff stay with us for a number of years” admits Hamish, “which is ideal as they are at the frontline when it comes to dealing with our customers, and people like dealing with faces they recognise and that they can trust to do a good job. We have a good few young staff coming up through the ranks, which is just as important to ensure a strong future for the company. We can only increase our revenue by increasing throughput, so having good people engaging with our customer base is key.” The Tinto restaurant which is open to the public on market and non-market days runs a good base menu, which still includes Lanark Markets signature oxtail soup. As a youngster I doubt that many of us could envisage holding our wedding in the market but working with Gilbert Thomson at Country Refreshments, whose offices are also within the market, the concourse is regularly decked out for weddings, 21st birthday parties and Christmas parties and on occasion funerals, which has often been a fitting send off for many of the farmers who spent many happy hours there during their lifetime. As well as having the Muirglen premises, Lawrie & Symington also run Forfar market as part of the group, under the same management as Lanark. Forfar is the last surviving market in the Angus and Dundee area and with a recent £500,000 investment by the parent company, in it plays a significant role as a link between local farmers and butchers, as well as

LAWRIE & SYMINGTON

The market is now a popular wedding venue

hosting antiques auctions and other sales. Like Lanark, the potential for the use of the market premises has not gone unnoticed by the Board and it too hosts weddings and events. Forfar mart was developed in 1967 and still sees butchers and farmers arriving from counties beyond Angus, ensuring that the market has a significant role to play in the wider region. Last year, Forfar saw 7,500 head of cattle and 60,000 sheep prime lambs go through its sale ring, while Lanark boasted 20,000 head of cattle and 200,000 sheep sold. A hugely competitive number for any livestock auction company in Scotland. From its early days, when transport to market was near impossible and the reliance on the Clydesdale horse sales was crucial, Lawrie and Symington Ltd has grown with the agricultural industry over the last 150 years and like the industry it supports, it has seen good and bad times in its history but has always managed to be there for its customers. Nowadays the market hosts the premier sales for Texel Sheep, Blackface Rams and Females, Border Leicester, Bluefaced Leicester, Shetland Sheep and

many more. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Property Department continues to grow, specialising in the sale of agricultural and rural properties and valuations. The development at Muirglen ensures that the Country Supplies Shop offers a comprehensive range of animal feeds and health products as well as a wide choice of country

clothing, as a one stop shop for the farming community and you can have a nice lunch in the Tinto View restaurant before heading home. There is formal seating for up to 450 people at any event and The Conference Room on the Upper Gallery is ideal for seminars and training days or meetings. As well as the usual agricultural use, the

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general purpose hall has now become established as an ideal venue for trade shows and this year for the second time hosted the Scottish Winter Fair or Livescot as it has become known. Once again the support of the agricultural community has ensured a sound venue for this prestigious event and the hard work of the staff to make every event a success is a credit to everyone involved from the shop floor to the board room. So the future looks bright for this auction company which had endured 150 years of change and will see more changes in the future for which they are well prepared. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are aware that we have to adjust to future marketing trends and are keen to use more social media and send up to date information to our customers via text message.â&#x20AC;? Concludes Hamish, who freely admits he still likes to read the press reports in the paper every morning rather than look them up on the computer but keeping a finger on the pulse has always been the way at Lawrie & Symington and no matter how that is done, it will no doubt stand them in good stead for the next 150 years.

RENEWABLEENERGY

Scotland’s Largest Solar Park To Be Operational By End of Year BWE Partnership and British Solar Renewables (BSR) have announced that construction has commenced on Scotland’s largest solar park project, New Mains of Guynd, following a £10million investment. The 9.5MW, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) park located at Carmyllie, Arbroath, will be constructed in two operational phases, with final completion expected by June 2016. Ron Shanks, owner of BWE Partnership, said: “Planning permission was granted for the 50 acre site in October last year and construction is now well underway. The first 5MW phase will be completed and producing power by the end of December this year, with the second phase due to be completed by next summer. “We are delighted to have formed a strong team with British Solar Renewables to get this project in the ground

and operational. It is a team that I am confident will deliver further ground-mounted solar PV projects in Scotland. BSR is taking the lead as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor and acting as the development manager, as well as our independent connection provider, through its subsidiary Renewable Energy Connections. “At a time when proposed changes to solar subsidies throughout the UK are having a significant impact on future projects, I am extremely proud that BWE Partnership is one of the few companies in the market not only seeking development opportunities, but actually executing these projects from concept to completion.” Commenting on behalf of British Solar Renewables, David Peill, commercial director said: “The construction and development of Scotland’s largest commercial-scale solar park is a fantastic project to be involved

with and we are delighted to be part of the team making the development a reality. “It is extremely important to us to work with companies in the area and we are utilising a supply chain comprising several local businesses which are able to provide the high quality materials and services required.” Mr Shanks added: “Whilst the changes to government subsidies have caused uncertainty around future solar projects, we expect the

position to become much clearer early 2016. BWE Partnership continues to seek land for large solar energy developments in the east of Scotland with particular interest in opportunities within east Angus, east Aberdeenshire and in Fife. Other areas of Scotland could also be of interest provided they have suitable levels of irradiation and grid availability.” Please contact Ron Shanks for further information, tel: 07831 772658.

Weltec Biopower Erects Second Biogas Plant in South Korea In October 2015, the construction work for an anaerobic digestion plant from German manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER started in South Korea. The plant site is located about 80 km north of the capital Seoul, in Gyeonggido province. The 450-kW biogas plant is to go live in the early summer of 2016.

The highly developed technology with smart control will ensure a high level of efficiency of the second South Korean WELTEC plant. In South Korea, major investments are made in the energy sector, and the development of renewable energy sources has been a top priority for several years. For

good reason: The republic with its population of 51 million is one of the world‘s 10 largest power consumers. However, the country does not have any significant fossil resources and is forced to import 97 percent of its conventional energy sources. One of the reasons why WELTEC BIOPOWER attracted the attention of the transformer manufacturer, who assumes the role of investor and operator of the new biogas plant, was that the German plant manufacturer had already built a biogas plant in the south of the country back in 2012. However, the customer‘s final decision in favour of WELTEC was based on the fact that the technical plant concept forhe new project is custom-tailored to the region‘s special needs and South Korea‘s ecological goals. “The sustainable waste disposal concept and the efficient processing of

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the input substances into highnutrient fertiliser were decisive factors“, explains Harro Brons, the project manager of WELTEC BIOPOWER. Starting from the early summer of 2016, the operator will supply the stainless-steel digester with its capacity of almost 4,000 mÑ with 100 tons of organic waste a day, whereof 70 % are pig manure. This feedstock will be converted into biogas and high-quality fertiliser by anaerobic digestion. Subsequently, the fertiliser will be stored in two stainless-steel digestate storage units of 5,590 mÑ each until it is used. The generated biogas will be used to operate a combined heat and power plant with an electrical output of 450 kilowatt. The power will be fed directly into the power grid. The heat will be used for heating the company buildings and for internal processes.

RENEWABLEENERGY

VG Energy Partnership with Entrade goes from strength to strength An exciting time for VG energy securing 40 E3 Biomass CHP units from Entrade . This is just the start of a very exciting partnership working together to reduce electricity and heating costs for businesses as it will generate a total of 8 million kWh of electricity and over 19 million kWh of heat for businesses throughout the UK. The E3 is a self-contained, fully maintained combined heat and power unit generates 25kW electricity and 60kW heat from Biomass wood pellets, providing businesses with a cost effective, reliable and environmentally friendly power solution. Businesses will benefit from a guaranteed 20 year income via the government backed renewable heat incentive (RHI) from the heat generated and Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROC’s) from all electricity produced. Designed with efficiency in mind this innovative, environmentally friendly heating and electricity system is extremely efficient with the ‘syngas’ produced being up to 100 times cleaner than leading competitor models, making it the most sought after on the market. With £50 million research and development invested and patented technology, the unit has been successfully heating and powering VG Energy’s head office in Ayshire, Scotland for a number of months, allowing many clients to see how simple it is to change to renewable energy. Why consider a VG Energy Heat and Power Unit for your business? • Base level electricity and heat supplied • Minimal disruption to business during installation

thanks to a unique containerised system • Utility prices reduced and fixed allowing predictable costs, budgeted for twenty years • Twenty year guaranteed income from government incentives RHI and ROC’s • True green credentials to offset your carbon footprint • Unused electricity can be sold back to the grid, generating further income VG Energy has continued to lead the way in the renewable technology industry. Established in 2008 and with over 1200 installations we are recognised as market leader for Wind Turbines, Biomass, Solar PV and now CHP. We are well known for providing quality products, efficient installation and a high level of aftercare service. If you would like to see one in action or for further information please contact us on 01563 829 990 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

RENEWABLEENERGY

Biomass solutions from BD Supplies BD Supplies who are predominantly suppliers of animal husbandry equipment have this year made a major investment moving into the renewables industry by the purchase of a purpose built bulk pellet lorry for distributing biomass wood heating pellets to the domestic market. Brian Donaldson, Managing Director advised that “having supplied bags of wood heating pellets over the last 3 years it was noticed that more and more homes are fitting small pellet bulk tanks, but home owners were having considerable trouble getting deliveries in lorries small enough to fit in driveways and under phone and electricity lines. A decision was made to invest in a purpose built tanker suitable for reaching domestic homes.” The lorry itself can hold approximately 9 tonne of wood

heating pellets and has an auger & air system for extracting the pellets ensuring they are delivered carefully so quality is maintained. The pipes can reach up to 20 metres, and has its own dust extraction system to minimize any dust. Deliveries can be made from as little as 2 tonne up to its maximum. B D Supplies are fully BSL authorized and only supply Enplus A1 accredited wood pellets. We offer a first class customer service offering wood pellet deliveries within a 25 mile radius of Perth anything further may incur a small surcharge. Looking to the future biomass heating is getting more popular and offering good service at competitive prices is what we at B D Supplies strive to maintain.

Agri renewable energy awards reward innovation and best practice

The first ever renewable energy industry awards for the agricultural and rural sectors are being pioneered at the Energy Now Expo 2016 with a prize pot of £3000 up for grabs. The Energy Now awards will celebrate renewable energy schemes that demonstrate best practice and innovation on farms and rural businesses throughout the UK, highlighting how agricultural businesses are developing integrated schemes to deliver cost reductions, to make money, and contribute to the government’s renewable energy targets. Judging these awards are three industry experts, Tom Beeley, CLA renewables advisor, Dr Jonathan Scurlock, NFU renewables advisor and Mark Newton, Fisher German partner. “It’s about time we had awards for the rural and agricultural professionals, they will illustrate best practice and provide an opportunity for knowledge sharing, which will be key to ongoing delivery of renewable energy projects, given the changing renewable policy landscape” says Tom Beeley, CLA renewables advisor. “Agricultural and rural businesses are large contributors to the growth of the renewables sector. I’m keen to see businesses which have successfully integrated a renewable energy scheme into their existing business model, enabling them to reduce energy costs and enhance

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productivity. It’s important that any projects use and distribute energy efficiently, and of course maximise the environmental benefits,” says Tom. The awards will recognise passionate and ambitions business minded people from each of the seven renewable sectors. So, if you have a business structure which successfully incorporates renewable energy in any of the following categories, you could be in with a chance of winning, with a £500 cheque on offer for each category: * Most carbon neutral farm; * AD and biogas; * Biomass; * Heat pumps; * Hydro; * Solar; * Wind. If you or someone you know has renewable scheme which is benefiting the business by using energy as efficiently as possible, it’s time to celebrate their success. To be in with a chance of winning £500, apply online: www.energynowexpo.co.uk/ awards. The window to apply is short, so don’t delay. Get your application in, between November 28, 2015, and December 31, 2015. The award ceremony will take place at the Energy Now Expo event on February 10 and 11, 2016. To find out more about the event and register online visit www.energynowexpo.co.uk or call 01293 854405.

RENEWABLEENERGY

A boost for Renewables finance provider First Independent Finance Scottish based First Independent Finance (FIF) had cause for celebration last month when they were acquired by the LDF Group of Companies, a leading business finance provider. The business, formed by Robin Duncan of ING Farm Finance and Allan Ross of Highland Finance has come a long way from its formation in the Scottish Agricultural sector. Robin Duncan commented ‘We have a lot to thank our long term farming clients for, they helped put us in a position where we are attractive to a partner with the ability to invest heavily, and this deal gives us the opportunity to be even more innovative and flexible than we have ever been. Small and Medium sized businesses are the heartbeat of the UK and as such they need to be supported by a financial sector

who can ensure both awareness of and access to funding options that can help them prosper. The newly expanded LDF Group becomes the largest independent hybrid provider of funding to the SME market, providing £400m in lending during 2016 to both the corporate and professions markets. First Independent Finance will continue to trade under the present brand, with an enhanced client finance offering provided through LDF’s own finance book. Both First Independent Finance and LDF clients will enjoy an added degree of flexibility in terms of the broader spectrum of finance opportunities available as part of the Group structure. First Independent Finance’s service offering has always revolved around TRUST, CHOICE and SUPPORT, following their

proposition of ‘helping you to make confident choices’ when it comes to business finance decisions. This value proposition will not change – it will simply strengthen, providing a fully comprehensive finance solution to SMEs across the UK. Allan Ross, Managing Director of First Independent Finance says, “Our combined capabilities and appetite for lending can also help us make a real impact in improving access to business finance in Scotland. The capacity LDF has to lend on its own book is going to mean a step change in the amount of finance we can deliver.” Renewables At First Independent Finance, we understand the importance of helping our clients to make confident choices when arranging their asset finance. This is particularly important for those

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clients in the ever-growing renewable energy sector. Whether you are upgrading existing equipment or purchasing new, renewable energy requirements such as solar projects and biomass energy solutions can be an expensive investment. First Independent Finance has been successful in funding several biomass and solar projects recently. We believe that our ability to achieve the right financial solution to cover these costs is thanks to our dedication to making deals happen and access to funders who fully understand the equipment and the considerable financial benefits that renewables can yield. We are also able to work with suppliers of the equipment to present your project in the most attractive way possible – helping to turn your renewable and green dream into reality.

RENEWABLEENERGY

Earthmill targets growing farm CHP market with exclusive technology deal

Farming renewable energy specialist Earthmill has signed a deal to become the exclusive supplier of a new state of the art power generation technology across several UK regions, as part of a significant diversification into the combined heat and power (CHP) market. The deal will see Earthmill exclusively selling industry leading Finnish-built CHP systems across Yorkshire, Cheshire, Mid and North Wales. Earthmill will be initially targeting the farming sector with the systems that and enable farmers to reduce heating costs and at the same time generate revenue and savings from power generation, and where the firm has great expertise in renewable energy. The firm’s wind power division has supplied farmers with more than 250 turbines since it was established by managing director Steve Milner from his garage in 2009, launched its CHP division earlier this year. Following more than a year of research and 52

negotiation with suppliers in the low-carbon technology sector, the business has announced its partnership with Arbor, the UK distribution partner of Finnish company, Volter. Earthmill managing director Steve Milner said: “Small scale CHP isn’t a new concept in Europe but it’s still in its infancy in the UK. Drawing on Arbor’s expertise in the industry, this new partnership perfectly complements our wind turbine offer and, since the cut in wind subsidies earlier this year, represents a financially viable alternative that will help farms and businesses with a large heat demand future-proof themselves against rising energy costs.” “The technology is particularly suited to pig and chicken farms that need access to almost constant heat and also use a great deal of power, but dairy, arable and livestock farmers can also see big returns too. In many cases the new CHP units we now have access to can deliver greater savings and revenues than wind power to high

heat and energy users, and opens a whole new avenue for farm incomes,” he added. Fuelled by woodchip, the CHP process uses a specially designed reactor which heats the fuel to extremely high temperatures, in excess of 1000 degrees Celsius, in order to produce a flammable gas, to drive a generator and produce electricity. The heat produced is transferred into water which can then be used by high energy using farms to heat dairies, or pig or poultry sheds. The process is more than 88 per cent efficient. The CHP technology is eligible for two government subsidies; the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and double Renewable Obligations Certificates (ROCs), to support businesses in reducing their carbon footprint. The Arbor systems were the first small-scale CHP systems accredited by Ofgem to qualify for the subsidies and offer a return on investment in under five years. Costing £22,000 to £35,000 a year in wood chip to run, the units

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have the capacity to generate around £80,000 worth of heat and electricity, producing a £40,000 net profit. Energy-intensive businesses can expect paybacks of up to £100,000. A typical project will pay for itself within five years. Mr Milner added: “Volter is one of the world’s leading experts in biomass cogeneration and is renowned for producing the most advanced biomass gasification -fuelled heat and powers systems available.” Earthmill CHP is the first installer in the North of England, and the first in the UK to offer a customer co-operative for fuel buying and energy sales into the national grid, maximising operators’ profits. The Arbor CHP system is modular, with each unit generating 45kW and can be installed in multiples, to provide a sustainable source of heat and power for uses ranging from larger residential properties to small rural businesses and country estates right up to large hospitals and universities.

environment

Youngstock Housing

Production Efficiency is Playing Key Role in Reducing Carbon Footprint Efficiency of production provides the key not only to greater profitability, but also to reducing carbon footprint and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to the expert speakers at a RuminOmics workshop organised by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) in Edinburgh. The two-day European regional workshop attracted around 70 delegates from 12 countries representing a wide interest in the subject of solving the challenge of emissions from livestock systems. RuminOmics is an EUfunded 7th Framework project which was established in 2012 involving 11 partners from across Europe including QMS. The workshop in Edinburgh was aimed at transferring the knowledge collected to date and discussing how it can be applied on farm and used to help the industry progress. Professor Cledwyn Thomas from the European Association of Animal Science said the positive effect on the environment of livestock through grazing – including ecosystem and landscape benefits - was too often forgotten about. However, the challenge going forward, he said, will be meeting the demand for animal products from a growing and more affluent world population without losing these benefits. This, Prof Thomas believes, is where technology and management come in. “Greenhouse gas per kg of milk or meat produced is down globally but this is offset by increased numbers of livestock, therefore we have to look at greenhouse gas per ha or per farm or even per region,” he said.

One of the major areas of discussion at the workshop was whether GHG emissions could be reduced through livestock breeding programmes. Professor Thomas highlighted a range of mitigation strategies that farmers may adopt, ranging from feed additives to breeding. To useful strategies had to be profitable as well as reducing GHG. Breeding, he said, offered the greatest potential of up to 50% reduction in GHG emissions, according to some studies. However, selection for low methane emissions may not be sensible strategy since there was no evidence that low emitters were more efficient or profitable. Was it therefore better to select for efficiency since this will reduce methane emissions. Dr Jimmy Hyslop, Beef Specialist with SAC Consulting, part of SRUC, believed the focus should be on output per unit of fixed costs. “It is quite simple really; profit equals income minus costs, and improving efficiency is the route to both improved profits, which in turn will also lead to lower greenhouse gas emissions,” said Dr Hyslop. His example was beef finishing where he said, although feed costs per tonne or per day were high on an intensive, fastfinishing (slaughter at 12 to 15 months) unit, the lifetime feed costs were low because the number of days required to produce a finished carcass were much less. This meant the fixed costs were similarly low and efficiency in producing beef over a short time was good, meaning that GHG emissions per kg of beef were also low as a result of fewer days to market.

By Chloe McCulloch, Agricultural Consultant, SAC Consulting.

Inadequate ventilation is a significant factor in calf respiratory disease, which at best reduces growth and performance, and at worst results in mortality. Good ventilation is essential to prevent respiratory (and other) diseases. In low humidity, well ventilated buildings, respiratory pathogens (bacteria and viruses) die very quickly after they are exhaled by an animal. In a poorly ventilated environment however, these pathogens can survive for over half an hour, creating a significant reservoir of infection in the air and spreading disease from animal to animal. The building should have plenty of air inlet and outlet space, with the outlet at least 1.5 m higher than the inlet. An unrestricted open ridge of 0.3 – 0.4 m wide is good for ventilation and is much better than a cranked ridge which will reduce air outlet by around 80%. Whilst an open ridge will potentially let water into the building, if the shed is stocked correctly this will be reduced by the flow of warm air up and out and represents only a small proportion of the total moisture in the building – locating the ridge above a feed passage will also help to avoid getting bedding wet. Minimise moisture inside the shed by ensuring water troughs are working properly, and that there are no leaks from overflowing gutters.

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Natural ventilation is best when buildings are sited at right angles to the prevailing wind direction. The location of the building relative to other buildings is also important – a 9 metre high building will have an effect of a neighbouring building up to 21 metres away. Smoke testing (pellets are readily and cheaply available), ideally on a muggy day, will identify ventilation issues. The aim is for smoke to clear completely in 2 – 3 minutes, and should not linger in corners. Identifying the pattern of airflow in a larger building housing several groups of stock (e.g. calves housed in the same building as older stock, or mixed age groups of calves) could dictate how groups are managed, i.e. younger calves should be house in ‘upwind’ of older stock. Draughts are to be avoided also though, so note whether animals choose to lie in a particular part of the building – the benefit of a large airy space for stock is lessened if they all choose to lie in crammed into one corner! See www. farmingforabetterclimate.org for other practical measures to improve farm efficiency. Find us on Facebook and Twitter @SACfarm4climate. Farming for a Better Climate is funded by the Scottish Government as part of its Climate Change Advisory Activity. 53

livestock Commitment of Aberdeenshire Farming Family Recognised with Top Award An Aberdeenshire family farm has named as the 2015 Scotch Beef Farm of the Year. Darnford farm, near Banchory, run by the Watson family, was announced as the overall winner by Rural Affairs Secretary, Richard Lochhead, during a presentation at AgriScot in mid November. The Watsons run 426 Saler cross suckler cows, with all progeny finished on the farm, other than 50 cattle sold as stores. Cattle is the main enterprise on the farm and as a bolt-on to the main beef enterprise, David Watson and his wife Lynne have also established a 25 cow pedigree Saler herd. The aim of the annual Award, run by AgriScot and Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), is to showcase excellence in the production of cattle in Scotland and raise the profile of the dedication and stock management skills behind the production of Scotch Beef. The other two finalists were:. Wester Coilechat, Callander, Perthshire, run by the Malcolm family, and Prettycur Farm,

Montrose, Angus, run by the Sanger family. Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead extended his congratulations to the Watson family. “Family farms like Darnford are the backbone of our livestock industry. This year’s winner and the other finalists should be commended for their commitment to building sustainable and viable farming businesses which auger well for the future of the beef industry in Scotland.” The representatives from AgriScot and QMS, Robert Neill and Douglas Bell, who visited the finalist farms were particularly impressed with the Watson family’s commitment to continually improving the efficiency of their farm. “It was a pleasure to visit three farming families who all rightly share a real pride in the way they run their businesses. All three share a dedication to their and a focus on the market place for the stock produced on the farm, whether that be suckled calves, store animals, finished

cattle or high quality breeding stock,” said Douglas Bell, Head of Industry Development with QMS. AgriScot board member Robert Neill, a former Scotch Beef Farm of the Year Winner, added: “It was a privilege to visit all three farms and spend time with all the finalist families. Our congratulations go to the Watsons and the other finalists for the commercial skills and

forward-thinking approach they all demonstrate.” Peter Watson, who runs the farm with sons David and Adam and their wives, Aynsley and Lynne, said the family was delighted to have won. “We are very much a familyrun business and it is great that a commercial enterprise like ours has been recognised in this way. “The farm is very much a team effort with the family, as well as neighbouring farmers, Linda Stewart, Allan Melvin and Grant Milne, all involved,” said Peter Watson.

NFU Scotland calls for clarity on cattle move definition

NFU Scotland is contacting abattoirs and processors this week to gain clarity on how “maximum moves rules” are to be applied to cattle. In recent weeks, there has been growing concerns amongst cattle producers regarding the decision of some abattoirs to impose penalties and deductions on the price paid for cattle entering plants if they have spent their life on several farms. 54

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livestock Most recently, Dunbia made an announcement that they were to reduce the payment for cattle that had been on more than four farms. After contacting the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers, it has become apparent that within its membership, different abattoirs are deducting different amounts, for varying numbers of moves. Furthermore, the definition of a move is unclear. Some abattoirs define it as a change of ownership whereas others view this as a change of residency, catching out those cattle who have simply moved from farm to farm within the same business.

NFUS Livestock Chairman Charlie Adam said: “It is already apparent that every processor appears to be operating to its own individual standards hence the need for NFUS to contact all plants to find out just what is happening. “First and foremost we need clarity from each processor on its definition of a move. There appears to be two different rules in use - one based on the number of times an animal has changed ownership, the other counting the number of farms the animal has been on – regardless of whether those farms are owned by same business.

“We also need processors to clarify how many moves are permitted before deductions are applied and what the level of deduction will be. “Farmers buying and selling cattle need to know exactly where they stand. We are contacting processors this week to get a clear understanding of each plant’s policy. Given that each processor is taking a different approach, we will collate the responses we receive so that members are in no doubt about any individual plant’s position on this. “The Union’s livestock committee has already discussed

this matter and agreed that limiting the number of moves cattle can have before penalties kick in at the abattoir is a worry. Given Scotland’s geography and climate, it is not unusual for cattle to be born on one farm, then moved to another over the winter months to secure the best shelter then moved elsewhere to graze the next summer. Within Scotland’s traditional systems, the number of movements cattle make can quickly stack up. “Once we have clarity on the different policies plants have in place, we will be discussing with retailers and processors the effect these rules have on beef farming.”

Limousin steals the Classic pedigree bull show The overall pedigree bull championship title has been snapped up by Limousin ‘Fodderletter Jumpin’ Jack’ from Mr W Robertson & Son of Fodderletter Farms, Tomintoul at the 23rd Christmas Classic showcase at Thainstone Centre, Inverurie. The event, in conjunction with the Aberdeen Fatstock Association and sponsored by HSBC Ltd, saw 36 pedigree beef bulls go on show – judged by Robert Marshall, Kincaigie Farms, Lumphanan - then to a packed ringside for sale on Tuesday 1 December. Jumpin’ Jack – sired by Spittalton Gold and reserve Limousin champion winner at Banchory this summer – sold for 4,200gns to G D Wilson, Tutory, Bridge of Marcoch, Huntly later in the day at

auction. The reserve Limousin champion from R & K Davidson, Corsairtly, Keith sold for 3,200gns to Ordens Farm Ltd, Ordens, Boyndie, Banff. The champion Charolais – 20-month ‘Elrick Juror’ sired by Thrunton Fearless - from M Massie, Mains of Elrick, Auchnagatt, Ellon did not meet reserve at auction. Top price of the day was achieved by R Leggat, Mormond Prop, New Pitsligo, Fraserburgh for 19-month old reserve champion Charolais ‘BonnyKelly Jasper’ – selling for 4,900gns to F G Leslie, Newton of Auchindoir, Rhynie, Huntly. The Simmental champion was announced as 25-month old ‘Islavale Equity’ from W S Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith and the reserve champion from Druid Temple

Farm, Druid, Old Edinburgh Road South, Inverness sold for 3,200gns to F C Birse & Co, Cairndaie, Sauchen, Inverurie. Thirty-month old ‘Logie Escape’ from M Bruce & Partners, Mains of Logie, Ellon claimed the AberdeenAngus champion title and reserve champion was from

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Neil A Wattie, Mains of Tonley, Alford. Other leading prices included 3,000gns for a Charolais bull from E A Mutch, Whitefield House, Forglen, Banff and 2,000gns for a Simmental bull from D &R Durno & Sons, Auchorachan, Glenlivet.

livestock Ladies in Beef call for industry support to boost suckler beef breeding herds The British suckler-beef breeding herd is at its lowest level since the late1980s at 1.57 million head having fallen by over 230,000 head in the past ten years and by 140,000 cows the past 4 years. The UK suckler beef herd is the second largest in Europe after France but despite some of the highest EU farm-gate beef prices, this once mighty industry is now the most vulnerable in the livestock sector. Ladies in Beef are calling on farmers (and lady beef farmers especially), livestock markets, abattoirs, processors, retailers, butchers, farm shops, food service and the hospitality sector to support the campaign to raise consumer awareness. Jilly Greed co-founder of Ladies in Beef said, ‘In the UK we’ve lost over 140,000 beef-

breeding cows over the last four years - that’s an awful lot of empty fields. Sadly there is an industry acceptance that suckler beef is in terminal decline due to poor returns and market and supply chain failures. We just cannot let this happen without fighting for a more stable future. We have to up our game and increase consumer awareness of why suckler beef is special due to a natural production system of grass, milk, nurturing beef breeds and glorious countryside.’ Ladies in Beef fully support dairy beef supply chains and the need to maintain volume in the marketplace. However there is very little product differentiation within the processing sector where ‘beef is beef is beef’. Most consumers assume British beef comes from grass based

Photo courtesy of: Emily Fleur Photography (http://emilyfleurphotography.com/).

traditional suckler beef herds. Yet less than half is suckler beef and the majority is now a byproduct of the dairy herd. Minette Batters LIBS cofounder and Deputy President NFU said, ‘Dairy beef is hugely important to maintain volume

but we have to be much more bullish about suckler beef and the role our grazing herds play in the production of a high quality product, nurtured by milk and grass. There is much we can learn from the poultry industry in product differentiation and grass

NEW Telehandler and Skid Steer Yard Scrapers now available

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livestock based suckler beef resonates with consumers not just in the UK but also across the world. Get the branding right and we could see a resurgence in suckler beef production in the UK and profitable returns.’ Taking a lead from the poultry sector and successful product differentiation within the

retail and hospitality sector, there is a fresh opportunity to create a greater awareness of suckler beef, promoting the many health, animal welfare and environmental benefits of traditional, naturally raised suckler beef as well as it importance to the land management of the British countryside.

Bryce Introduces New Design Feature – helping livestock fencing

Bryce of Kelso who design and manufacture the Bryce Suma range of post drivers, have introduced a Hydraulic Rockspike Engagement System ( Patent Pending). This new system is a major contributor to greater safety, minimal physical effort and a substantial increase in cycle times when rockspiking for stakes down a fenceline. The operator controls the new system by moving a single hydraulic control lever. Current systems available require the rockspike to be held in and out of work by mechanical means where the rockspike then has to be pushed or pulled into the working position which is timeconsuming and tiring. The new Bryce system is also much safer as there is less chance of tripping or falling on slippy underfoot conditions which can be an issue when manoeuvring the rockspike

in and out of the working position manually. Rockspike and Hole Punchers designed and developed by Bryce can vary in weight between 75kgs and 180 kgs, and pushing and pulling these tools in and out of work through the course of a working day increases the risk of fatigue and possible accidents. Also with the new Bryce system there is never any requirement for the operator to be standing under the post driver hammer as can be the case when operating the current manual systems. Bryce offer a complete range of rockspikes, square hole punchers and round hole punchers up to 30cm in diameter and a shalebuster - all of which can be interchanged at any time with the new system, quickly and safely. For more information go to www.brycesuma.co.uk or contact Jock directly on 07970 730 567.

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Dundee Pupil is Scotland’s Top Health and Food Technology Student

A sixth year pupil at Harris Academy, Dundee, has been presented with the award for Scotland’s Top Health and Food Technology Student by Jamie Scott, former BBC Masterchef: The Professionals winner. Nicole Cumming, was one of almost 1000 students to take the Higher Health and Food Technology course which addresses contemporary issues affecting food and nutrition. These include ethical and moral considerations, sustainability of sources, food production and development, and their effects on consumer choices. As Scotland’s top Health and Food Technology student, Nicole will receive an award of £100 from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS). Harris Academy will also receive a special £100 voucher to purchase Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb or Specially Selected Pork for use in classes. Thousands of pupils from across Scotland benefited from the QMS School Meat Voucher Scheme last year. The meat voucher scheme was introduced to assist young people with their culinary skills, in particular cooking red meat as part of a healthy balanced diet. The initiative, which was also developed in

recognition of school budget constraints, offers all Scottish secondary schools a voucher worth up to £100 to enable teachers to buy red meat for use in cookery classes. Qualified nutritionist and QMS Health and Education Executive Jenni Henderson said: “We are delighted to support the Higher Health and Food Technology course and would like to congratulate Nicole on her tremendous achievement. “The Higher requires pupils to analyse the relationships between health, food and nutrition, and plan, make and evaluate food products to a range of dietary and lifestyle needs – invaluable skills in today’s society.” Former BBC Masterchef: The Professionals winner Jamie Scott, was delighted to present Nicole and Harris Academy with their welldeserved awards. “As the top Health and Food Technology student in Scotland, Nicole will now have a keen understanding of the importance of good nutrition and how food is produced. “As a chef, I think promoting a healthy balanced lifestyle and encouraging young people to be interested in food and nutrition is extremely important.” 69

livestock Launch of unique new poultry red mite treatment for integrated pest management

A new poultry red mite treatment with a physical mode of action has been launched by Barrettine Environmental Health. Designed to fit into and encourage integrated pest management practices, MiteMax® provides rapid knockdown of poultry red mite (PRM), according to Charles Phillips from the company. “The physical mode of action of MiteMax® makes it effective against pesticide-resistant mites,” he says. “The treatment is applied directly to a shed’s inner surfaces via knapsack sprayer. MiteMax® is specifically formulated to penetrate surface dust making it highly effective at reaching mites harbouring deep in crevices. Mites are trapped by the sticky surface and rendered permanently immobile.” In conjunction with robust cleansing practices, Ian Whelan an expert in physical insect control techniques says MiteMax® fits neatly into an integrated pest management style of husbandry. “Using treatments with different modes of action together as part of a flock health plan ensures each one fulfils its potential” he adds. At Park Farm near Hull, Charlie and Jane Bucton farm 24,000 free range laying hens as part of their large mixed farming enterprise. Mr Bucton trialled MiteMax® in a stocked poultry shed six weeks prior to depleting the flock. “It was easy to mix and apply by knapsack sprayer, and didn’t leave a slippery floor,” he explains. “The treatment penetrated even the most dusty surfaces. Knock-down was swift, with no signs of surviving mites the following day. Based on results, I am now planning to use it to treat first signs of infestation within the flock, then also in conjunction with a chemical product to purge the shed prior to re-stocking.” 58

A Balancing Act Three things that happened today 1. The radio this morning announced Arnold Schwartzenegger was telling us all to become part time vegetarians in order to save the planet from global warming. 2. I was teaching a Farmskills Calving Class to a group of farmers and one of the first things we agreed was that the goal of beef suckler production was one live calf per cow per year 3. I totalled up the percentage of barren beef cows amongst those we have been scanning recently and it came out at 7.5% So there we have it, a celebrity taking a swipe at animal produce and coming up with his easy remedy to save the world, farmers who know that efficient production is what they need to aim for, and the statistical reality that barren rates could be better. In a way it reflects the ongoing search for the balance between: Food – Welfare-Environment. With food production we want a sustainable and profitable model that secures the needs of an ever-increasing world population whilst looking after the welfare of the animals involved. The effects of this on the environment in terms of climate change, biodiversity, land degradation etc also need to be taken into account. It seems strange to me that proponents of these three different aspects often seem to be at loggerheads. In reality

the vet

improved welfare always leads to increased productivity, which in turn mitigates the carbon footprint per litre or kilo of food produced. So it should be win, win, win. Figures banded about for livestock on a global scale always make interesting reading. It is claimed that 30% of the planets land surface is used for livestock production and that livestock produce 18% of green house gases (GHG) globally. When it comes to GHG produced by ruminants it is methane that is the main culprit. Methane is twenty five times as potent a GHG as carbon dioxide. So it is no surprise then that looking for ways to help reduce production of methane in the animal is another focus area. Where does this methane come from? Well, the fermentation process in the rumen produces hydrogen, it then combines with carbon dioxide to produce water and methane – the latter being burped out into the atmosphere. The composition of the diet can have a big effect on the fermentation. It has been shown that the forage:concentrate ratio can be important . Increased concentrate reduces rumen pH and makes it more difficult for the methane producing bugs to survive. The downside of this is that an acidic rumen isn’t a healthy place for the cow to be generally – Sub Acute Ruminal Acidosis (SARA) being the outcome. Again a balance needs to be found. Other areas of investigation to reduce methane production are food additives, oil supplements and vaccinations against the bugs that produce the methane. So there may be magical methane cures around the corner but in the meantime I’m happier helping my clients improve productivity in order to mitigate carbon footprints. That takes me back to the calving class today – one live calf per cow per year – and why does calving have a bearing on that? Well bad calvings or dystokias are responsible for 65% of

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By Andy Cant Northvet Veterinary Group calve losses in the first few days of life and those calves that survive a difficult birth are more than twice as likely to succumb to disease in the first six weeks of life. So if we are to target where losses occur then calving should be a priority. A good practical knowledge helps not only deal with events at the birth itself but also getting the preparation right in terms of breed, age, condition, disease status, handling facilities, calving pens etc etc The beginning of the process is of course getting your cows pregnant in the first place so fertility is the other area where attention can be focused. Coming back to our carbon footprint we want to decrease the overhead of non-productive or low producing animals and that’s where scanning comes in, to identify these barren cows. In a year that has been difficult for farming we have done a lot more scanning of beef herds after housing as farmers realize the benefits of culling the non producing “overheads”. The barren rate at 7.5% is probably better than we expected given the year it has been. The Paris UN Climate Conference will no doubt encourage the press to come up with sensational headlines helped along by the likes of big Arnie. However the underlying problems of expanding human population, the everincreasing need for food and its environmental aspects won’t be going away. Getting the balance right will be an ongoing and difficult challenge.

DROVERS TALES Our Belted Galloway’s cattle fold started a few years ago when my boss asked me to find 2 in-calf heifers as a Christmas present for his wife. Since starting the fold, which has expanded from the initial 2 to 20 breeding cows and followers I have always had a notion to have one dun coloured cow running with the normal black and white beasts. I think it would set the group image off well. About a year ago we started looking for a dun heifer or young cow. Not far from us there is breeder who over recent years has become a friend, who has a few duns and we enquired about her selling one to us. She didn’t have any that she wanted to part with. However, she did offer us a nice black heifer that was from a dun cow and was in-calf to a dun bull, so we took a gamble and bought her hoping for a nice dun heifer calf, sadly that didn’t happen, we ended up with a bull calf which had to be cut as he has a narrow belt which is incomplete, that means that he could not be

Beautiful Belties By Ken Headspeath Highland Drovers & Borland Farm kept for pedigree purposes. So with regards our own dun that was that or so I thought! The lady who I had been unsuccessful in procuring a dun heifer from called one day and told me that due to circumstances out of her control she had to sell all her cattle and was I still interested in a dun? She would sell me her best heifer which had

just recently calved at a good price as she was keen that all her cattle went to good homes. I visited her, liked the look of Emily and the deal was done. It was a sad visit, she had not long lost her husband and for reasons out with her control the family farm was to be sold and although she retains her home, her herd of

A mucky Beltie

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Belted Galloway cattle had to go from the fields around her home, fields that she has kept Belties in for more than 35 years! She had a little over 6 weeks to get her cattle sold and off the farm. Subsequently, her situation crossed my mind many times after collecting Emily and her calf. I tried imagining what it would be like to be in a situation like that and I couldn’t. The best I could come up with was to think, how would such a situation affect my dad, who will be of a similar age. My dad has had Highland cattle for nearly 50 years. It was easy to imagine that if circumstances were such that my dad lost the ability to keep stock what would happen. Simple, I think he would give up and die! Coming down from the hill one day, out of nowhere I had a thought. Why don’t we offer to give her Belted Galloway cattle a home and we could look after them for her. We have heaps of space and plentiful supply of forage. We both have the same high health status, it really wouldn’t cause us much more work or trouble and it would allow her to still own and continue breeding cattle. At the very least it would give her time to think about things and not be forced to sell her cattle in a rush. In the end her friends rallied round and she managed to sell the majority of her cattle to good homes. What she didn’t sell or want to sell was collected the day before the farm changed hands and lorry delivered 9 cows and heifers with 5 calves up the glen to us. Its funny that I now get to see dun Belties nearly everyday. I do think that one looks great amongst the others, I wouldn’t want too many though! I just need to now convince my boss a red Beltie would add the final splash of colour we need to our wee fold 59

Spring Dairy Showcase Event Set for Another Successful year at Borderway For more information about Borderway UK Dairy Expo please visit www.harrisonandhetherington.co.uk Entrance to the event is free of charge. For anyone wishing to attend the TotalDairy Expo technical dairy conference taking place on Friday 11th March 2016 please visit www.totaldairy.com

Harrison and Hetherington’s Borderway UK Dairy Expo is set to return to Carlisle for its fifth year. The event, which will take place on Saturday 12th March 2016, will be held at Borderway Exhibition Centre, and will see the cream of British dairy genetics and technology on display for the global audience it attracts. In the short time since its inception Borderway UK Dairy Expo, with an overall prize fund of £15,000 has become the leading dairy event in the UK, and one of the top dairy cattle shows in Europe. Last year’s event attracted both a record number of entries and a record number of spectators, with the overall Borderway UK Dairy Expo Champion of Champions, chosen from the seven breeds competing in the event, and being scooped up by Richard Bown’s Richaven Goldwyn Squaw 6. This Expo provides an industry platform in the early part of the year to support farmers, and commercial representatives by bringing together the very best of British dairy cattle, talent from the UK dairy industry and international dairy genetics. The thousands of people who attend can visits trade stands sharing the latest developments in dairy farming practice, breeding, genetics, machinery, equipment, technology, environmental issues, livestock marketing and export opportunities. Without a doubt a major focus of the 2016 UK Borderway Dairy Expo will be the livestock competition classes, which attract in excess of 400 entries of the very finest of dairy cattle from the length 60

2015 Champion of Champions ‘Richaven Goldwyn Squaw 6’ Barclay Phoenix, Hank Van Exel, Richard A Bown, Brian Richardson

and breadth of the country. There are a total of 62 classes which includes the breed Championships for Red and Whites, Jersey, Brown Swiss, Ayrshire, Dairy Shorthorn, British Friesian and Holstein. Judging the classes will be the trio if international judges; the Holstein show, Brown Swiss and Dairy Shorthorns is Michael Heath from Maryland in the USA. Canada’s Jeff Stephen will judge the Ayrshire, Jersey and Red & White classes. The International Dairy Youth Championships will be judged under the careful eye of David Gray of Drumtall Farm near Glasgow. David Pritchard Event Organiser and Operations Director for Harrison and

Hetherington commenting in advance said: “This event has become the premiere Dairy Event in the UK, both from in terms of exhibitors and the trade stands it attracts. This year we have a tremendous line up of judges, all specialists in their field and all esteemed members of the international dairy industry from across the world.” Borderway UK Dairy Expo has a reputation for encouraging the next generation of the dairy industry, and does so with the Dairy Showmanship Youth Championships. This championship will be contested by young breeders from across the UK and Europe. Commenting in advance

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of the event David Gray the Dairy Showmanship Youth Championships judge said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been asked to judge at the 2016 show, as I know the young breeders that exhibit at the expo are some of the very best in Europe. I have actually attended Dairy Expo as an exhibitor every year and it has been a pleasure to see it grow from strength to strength, and to now be known as one of the best dairy events in Britain. On the day I will be looking for a young handler that has the ability to know their animal’s faults and correct them to the best of their capability.” The John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award is now one of the Dairy Industry’s most

DAIRY EXPO 2016

Young Showmanship Champion Will Horsley with Wes Johnson, principle at Newton Rigg College, judge Claire Swale

important awards which was presented to Sammy McCormick in 2015 at Borderway UK Dairy Expo. The aim of this award is to recognise the dairy cattle breeder or exhibitor judged to be a high achiever and exemplary role model within the dairy industry. Nominees are being sought for the 2016 award, and anyone wishing to forward a nomination should send a brief resumé on the nominee by 8th February 2016 to the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award, Harrison & Hetherington Ltd., Borderway Mart, Rosehill, Carlisle CA1 2RS. This year will be the second year that the TotalDairy Expo technical dairy conference will be taking place in conjunction with Borderway UK Dairy Expo. Returning to the North on Friday 11th March, the conference will be held at The Shepherds Conference Centre adjacent to Borderway Mart. From 10am to 4.30pm there will be a host of dairy industry experts speaking about the industry, they will include: James Breen, The University of Nottingham – ‘Mastitis Control – An evidence based approach to selective dry cow therapy.’ John Cook from Valley Agriculture Software –

‘An approach to dairy herd reproduction management.’ Will Tulley, EBVC – ‘Practical solutions for improved milk quality.’ Nick Bell, Royal Veterinary College – Who will be running a ‘Foot trimming discussion panel’ with three foot trimmers. Iwan Thomas, Holstein UK – ‘Breeding for function not fashion.’

Julia Moorhouse from event organisers EBVC, explains that TotalDairy Expo is designed to provide practical take home messages for farmers: “All of the speakers at TotalDairy Expo will be delivering practical advice that can be implemented on farm. They will be covering five key

topics, relevant to all dairy businesses.” Once again Borderway UK Dairy Expo 2016 is being supported by seven mainline sponsors: Holstein UK, CIS, Clydesdale Bank, Norbrook, Farmers Guardian, Carrs Billington and new this year World Wide Sires. David Pritchard, commenting on the important role that the sponsors play at the event, said, “The sponsors we have secured for Borderway UK Dairy Expo are all major players in the dairy industry. Without their support over the years since we started the event, it certainly wouldn’t be the success that it is today. Without their help there would not be this key event in the spring for the dairy industry, and it would not be able to continue to exceed our expectations year on year.” He continues: “Our location in Carlisle and the excellent facilities at Borderway Exhibition Centre puts us in the perfect position to attract the very best competitors from the UK’s main dairy producing areas. The event was incredibly well represented last year and as a result of the very high standard of entries across all of the classes was a truly exceptional show, which we expect to top this year.”

Sammy McCormick John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award winner with the Dennison family

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dairy Milk from forage performance improves in Tracesure Cu/I-bolused herd An organic dairy herd is capturing more of the energy and protein in its forage thanks to a bolus which releases a consistent and steady supply of four key trace elements. William Willis, the 2015 Farmers Weekly Young Farmer of the Year, runs the 130-cow herd at Glasgoforest Farm, near Aberdeen, with his mother, Anne. They converted to organic production in 2000 and now run a spring, block calving system. Producing the highest quality feed possible at the lowest price is a key element of their business model. The farm, on sandy loam with 890mm of annual rainfall spread evenly across the year, grows grass clover swards, and whole-crop peas and barley, using a rotation and strategic reseeding to rejuvenate the grass.

With cold winds straight off the North Sea, and the reliance on naturally generated nitrogen, spring growth is typically delayed, and the herd is housed from November to April. William is keen to give his cows every opportunity to maximise the energy and protein in home-produced forage and grass. Five years ago he started bolusing the herd with slowrelease Tracesure Cu/I at drying off. Selenium, cobalt, iodine and copper in the bolus allow animals to utilise what they are eating by enabling them to access the energy and protein from grass or forage. William says there have been multiple benefits from using Tracesure Cu/I but the most significant has been the reduction in retained membranes post-calving.

“We have certainly seen a massive reduction in retained cleansings,’’ he says. “We get very, very few retained cleansings and if we do get any it will be a cow that has had twins.’’ Impressed by the performance of Tracesure Cu/I

he has introduced a second application, bolusing cows at 100 days post-calving. “I think it is improving our milk from forage performance this year and hopefully it will continue to improve our fertility figures as well,’’ says William.

Dairymaster’s Latest Innovation Swiftflo Commander Launched As farms are getting larger there is less time for individual cow attention - during milking having access to the right information at the right time is essential. The Swiftflo Commander, the new brain of the milking

parlour, controlling everything to do with milking, feeding and animal health has arrived! The launch at AgriScot created great excitement especially after having recently won 2 major awards at the leading agricultural

show in Ireland, the National Ploughing Championships. It offers a new level of intelligence that takes command of each milking unit within the parlour. Data alone has no intrinsic value, it’s what you do with the data that creates value. The Swiftflo Commander gives the producer a lot more information when and where it’s needed - at the cow milking point. Next generation touchpad technology means that it is extremely robust, easy to clean and fully water resistant. The Swiftflo Commander displays important information such as milk yield, milking time, and somatic cell count (SCC) data on each cow and much more. The intelligent unit uses smart pulsation for reduced wear and

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a longer life time. It can also display if your cow is in heat and sort that cow with a single touch for AI or further inspection. Imagine a system that can identify what each cow is contributing to your herd SCC? The Swiftflo Commander can display a cow’s percentage SCC of the entire herd. The advantage of having this information about each individual cow at the right time in the parlour is that you can act on it. It will also prompt the farmer to do a California Milk Test (CMT) when high SCC information is received so diagnosis and treatment is much sooner. The farmer can enter information directly from the milking point e.g. treatment dates, the smart technology then automatically retains milk until

NFUScotland

dairy

Building Potential

the withdrawal period is up and it is then safe for it to enter the milk tank again. It also indicates freshly calved cows that enter the parlour. It uses speech technology to inform farmers of information at a time when they can react to it. With more emphasis on hygiene

and ever increasing milk quality standards the cleaning performance of each unit is also individually monitored. The Swiftflo Commander gives the farmer the capability and functionality of doing herd management at every single milking point in a very easy manner.

New Study Reveals Prolonged and Significant Milk Yield Reduction From IBR Dairy cows that have been exposed to the virus that causes Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) have been shown in a new study to produce 2.6 litres per day less milk throughout the entire lactation, despite showing few or no signs of the disease (i.e. being subclinically infected). The study was carried out by the animal health and welfare consultancy RAFT Solutions and sponsored by MSD Animal Health (known as Merck Animal Health in the US and Canada). It compared the performance of cattle with antibodies to IBR (seropositive) to those without antibodies (seronegative) over a two year period on an average sized, all-year-round calving pedigree Holstein dairy herd in the north of England. The average reduction in milk yield recorded in infected cows is significant under any

circumstances, and particularly so given the absence of any clinical signs of disease in most animals and the prolonged period of impact. “IBR is known to be an insidious disease that causes often unseen losses, including milk loss, but this new study highlights the scale of potential damage that infected herds can be suffering,” comments Jonathan Statham of Bishopton Veterinary Group and CEO of RAFT Solutions. “This is a disease that has been shown to be present in up to 70% of herds in some parts of the country, and in many cases it may well be present without herd managers being aware of it. “Clinical signs include respiratory problems, infertility and abortion, but it may also affect performance when present sub-clinically, as this work clearly illustrates.”

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By NFU Scotland President Allan Bowie

These are exceptional times for NFU Scotland and Scottish agriculture and let’s hope 2016 brings some genuine cheer. The pressure that built around all businesses in 2015, regardless of sector, was unprecedented. The root of our problems remain creeping costs, volatile and depressed markets, and damaging uncertainty over the timing and value of new CAP support payments. On CAP, we have repeatedly stressed that the shift to an area-based system, with gold-plated greening and all, would be challenging and that the traditional December CAP payments run could not be delivered by Scottish Government. But by the time you read this, it is likely that only a quarter of Scottish farmers and crofters will have received 70 percent of their support payment with others receiving their part payment in January, February or March. In truth, at time of writing, no one knows when they will be paid or what value will be attached to their payment. A disappointing outcome that will have ramifications for other schemes such as LFASS; beef and ewe hogg schemes and agri-environment. Directing blame at necessary complexity in the scheme remains a red herring as scheme rules were decided in June 2014 and, to date, almost £180 million has been invested in a delivery programme that is not yet fit for purpose. Some complexity was necessary if we were to preserve a much-reduced Pillar 1 support package for those who are genuinely active and the number of claimed hectares suggests that Scottish Government and NFUS have been successful in achieving that target.

With delayed and reduced payments on their way, the Union has driven a programme of work engaging with those who supply goods and services to our sector – including the banks - ensuring they are well aware of the cashflow issues ahead. While the short term outlook is difficult, I can reassure you that the Union is putting every effort into ensuring all governments and all parts of the supply chain each play their role in getting Scottish agricultural through this current storm, and a profitable and stable industry emerges. Much of that need for change is directed at the wider supply chain where, working with fellow UK farming union’s, we have spent much of 2015 delivering a unified and coherent message that risk and reward up and down the food chain needs to be shared more fairly. In times of food deflation, producers – regardless of what they produce - cannot be left carrying the can for retail price wars. Looking ahead, it is right that NFU Scotland continues to lend its support to efforts that will grow our markets both at home and abroad. I commend those members who took time out to meet the general public in 2015, whether that be highlighting the dairy crisis, promoting the Red Tractor or encouraging more people to try Scotch Beef, Lamb or cheese. Having farmers involved in these efforts make complete sense because of the fantastic story we have to tell about how we go about the business of farming here in Scotland. But to build on the potential, we need a vision for Scottish farming – one that is shared and promoted by Scottish Government. In its current vision document for farming in 2025, Scottish Government talks about a ‘green, innovative and profitable’ industry. They have their priorities the wrong way around and from 2016 onwards there must be a concerted effort by all parties to deliver an agricultural industry that, first and foremost, is profitable.

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US offers real potential for lamb exports

sheep One shot to influence your future lamb crop

By George Milne I was pleased to be part of a delegation from Scotland recently that went to Washington Dc to investigate the possibilities of opening trade with the US for Scotch lamb. At the invitation from the Scottish government and the Cabinet Secretary myself and Rob Livisey NFUS Vice president joined the group for two days. Day one saw Rob and I meet with a representative from the American farm Bureau Federation. His comments were very encouraging saying that there would definitely be a demand for Scotch lamb and it would be welcomed as a top quality product across the US, both in supermarkets and restaurants. To my surprise there are no butchers in the streets as we would know them here but as we investigated most supermarkets have an excellent display of fresh meat counters. We visited four supermarkets that day, Giant had a small amount of fresh lamb but mostly vacuum packed from Australia . Trader Joe’s more up market had no fresh lamb and one pack vacuum packed rack with no label of identification. Eastern Market was more of a meat store with several butchers and meat suppliers under one roof, an interesting concept. They mostly had American lamb selling at $ 9.89/lb for a leg of lamb which equates to about £14.00/kg here. Our super markets are selling a leg at £ 10.00 kg at the moment. Wholefoods was the most interesting supermarket with a standard away above any of our supermarkets they were selling Icelandic lamb at the moment but do switch to NZ at different times of the year. Displayed in a fantastic fresh counter of meats lamb did not take up more than meter

of space. A rack of Icelandic lamb was on sale for $ 19.99/ lb equating to £29.30/kg here. Tesco are selling our lamb at £15.00/kg at the moment. Lamb chops were the same selling at double the price of here. All be it that Icelandic lamb has some special qualities and standards but so does Scotch with our farm assurance standards and PGI status. At these pricing levels you would expect that exporting lamb to the US would add up. Day two involved meetings organised by the Scottish government to discuss lifting the ban and the time table for doing so. They including meeting with the Meat Import council of America and North American Meat Institute. They both agreed in general that they would support the market opening again and would be pleased to see Scotch lamb back on the shelves. There were some concerns around the BSE status in the UK, but in general they felt that this was being dealt with under the beef export situation. We then later met with the Animal Plant Health Inspection Services from the US Department of Agriculture. They said they would be launching a small ruminant consultation paper next year and if that went according to plan then lamb could be allowed back in as early as next autumn. I would say that might be slightly optimistic but never the less the timing of the visit has certainly moved discussions forward and we will now need to make sure that Defra continue to play there part in keeping up the momentum and ensure that the talks around lamb exports do not get involved with any TTIP discussion on the beef.

It’s easy to underestimate your flock’s nutritional needs during the winter months, but you only get one shot to influence your future lamb crop, and it’s now, during the two month period either side of tupping. David Thornton, Rumenco technical manager, warns that careful management of this period is vital as grass quality can’t always be relied upon. “This season’s grass samples suggest dry matter content (DM) is only around 20%, which means around 80% is water. So effectively, ewes are eating a lot of stomach filling material, 80% of which has no nutritional value.

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“Research confirms it’s important to maintain a high level of nutritional support for at least the first 40 to 60 days of pregnancy. Ewes needs to be in optimum body condition for early embryo genesis, when the embryo is just starting to form from the fertilised egg. “Due to the high water content, grass is likely to be low in energy. If ewes’ are in a negative energy balance, this will compromise egg implantation and early embryonic development. This makes it critically important to maintain good nutrition right through from tupping, into

sheep pregnancy, to make every lamb count. “Consequently, supplementary nutrition is going to be vital to ensure ewes receive a balanced energy intake that meets these nutritional needs, especially as we head into the winter months. “Another issue we’re seeing this season, along with consistently low DM affecting energy intake, is deficiencies of trace elements, especially cobalt and selenium. “Cobalt tends to be deficient in the UK regardless of grass quality, and it is the most important trace element

around the tupping and early pregnancy period. Maxx Energy provides high levels of trace elements, as well as being high in energy to optimise ewe health and support foetal development at this time. Mr Thornton concludes, “After tupping you can’t increase the number of lambs, you can only lose them. A proactive approach to ewe nutrition, and being mindful of energy requirements compared to the quality of grass at this stage will pay-off in the long term, resulting in a successful 2016 lamb crop.”

Nutrition key to successful lambing period Producers are being reminded to carefully manage ewe nutrition throughout pregnancy, particularly during the last six to eight weeks to ensure successful foetal growth and development. Dr Michael Marsden, head of technical at Trident Feeds says that a body condition score (BCS) of 2.5 to 3.0 should have ideally been achieved pretupping and, farmers should be striving to maintain this throughout the majority of pregnancy. “Once in lamb, the ewe’s additional requirements for energy and protein are relatively low during the early stages of pregnancy. However, they increase rapidly during the final six weeks as this is when approximately 70% of foetal growth occurs. “It’s key to remember that as lambs continue to grow in the uterus, they take up a greater proportion of body space, reducing the capacity of the ewe’s rumen. And as a result, their appetite can decrease by up to 30%,” says Dr Marsden. Therefore, he notes the importance of increasing the nutrient density of the ration as the gestation period progresses to keep nutrient supply at equal pace with foetal growth.

“Farmers should be aiming for an energy content of at least 12.5MJ ME per kg DM in the supplementary concentrates, plus at least 16% to 18% crude protein if feeding hay or silage; or 20% for straw-based rations. “It’s important to be aware that a diet high in starch can very quickly upset the rumen, causing acidosis. This can lead to lower birth weights and poor milk quality, ultimately affecting early lamb growth rates. “For this reason, if producers are tempted to feed cereals to bolster the energy content of rations they should ensure they’re fed as part of the diet and balanced adequately.” This can be managed by including a good amount of digestible fibre, which is available from feed sources such as sugar beet feed. “Sugar beet feed has a slower rate of rumen fermentation, when compared to cereals, so the risk of digestive upsets is reduced,” says Dr Marsden. “The feed source also stimulates dry matter intake and provides more nutrients for milk production which aids lamb growth rates.” Trident’s range of sugar beet products comprises of Maxibeet, Supabeet, Supaflow and Molassed Shreds.

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YOUNG SHEPHERD

New Season Beckons By James Rhys Baylis Well, here we are. The first Farming Scotland issue of 2016! I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and saw the New Year in in suitable style? Well, with the festive period out of the way, our focus now turns towards lambing, which is approaching at a rate of knots. We used two tups this year, a Texel and a Lleyn, who were turned out with our Scotch Mule gimmers and our ewe lambs and pedigree Lleyns respectively. As you were enjoying the last issue of Farming Scotland, both tups were hard at work and, as a result, we have plenty of ewes with colourful raddle marks now grazing quite happily. The colourful backsides suggest the tups have done their jobs, but I’m now counting down the days to January so we can bring the ewes in for scanning to get a good idea of what we can expect when lambing comes around. Mules, and Lleyns even more so, are reasonably prolific sheep, so all being well, I’m hoping we can

expect plenty of bonny, healthy lambs come spring. Being situated right on the coast, we can take a real battering from the elements from time to time as the weather whips in across the Solway Firth. As a result, we lamb indoors here. As well as protecting the lambs and their mothers from the worst of the weather, it makes monitoring the sheep a lot easier, giving us 24 to 48 hours to make sure the ewes and lambs are bonding and feeding before they are turned out. Lambing began in early March last year and most of our lambs were able to get on the market while the price was still relatively strong. Lambing indoors has allowed me to drop lambing back by another 7-10 days to try and enable us to get lambs finished and away before the price tails off. Luckily, at time of writing, we’ve had a very mild winter here on the Solway coast, which has ensured there’s plenty of grass still on the ground. Fingers crossed this will continue through to February and there will be plenty to sustain our early lambers and their followers!

BOOK SERIALISATION

“Isolation Shepherd” It’s hard to be a shepherd without good dogs, especially when working some of the highest and most remote land in the country. Continuing our exclusive serialization of his memoir ‘Isolation Shepherd’, Iain Thomson remembers the three dogs with whom he worked the upper reaches of Glen Strathfarrar at the end of the 1950s

A good collie with confidence in its master will work away from him at great distances on the hill. The Strathmore hills, steep and high, lent themselves well, indeed often required, using a dog at over a mile distant. Sometimes the dog could only be followed with the glass and the need for a black dog with a broad white collar was obvious to me. Nancy, who became the main dog I used for ten years, was beautifully marked. Her broad white collar and black curly coat always carried a shine. The tip of her tail, legs and underside were white, together with a blaze up her muzzle. Ears that normally lay could be cocked in interest but the tips always turned down. Nancy, as well as having good looks, was also of a great nature. I never once saw her snap no matter how the children teased and tormented. Her character and intelligence came through in fine, dark eyes. In Nancy’s best years, distance was no object and she would work away

gently at complicated handlings without my instructions. Until she had built up such confidence, however, there were a number of instances when she seemed to be able to read my mind. Putting her out one day on the south side of Strathmore to climb the very steep slopes of Meall Mhor, I watched her move steadily, making a wide arc around a cut of undipped sheep I wanted brought down. Taking an eye off her for a second she slipped out of my sight. The sheep didn’t move and no amount of shouting commands or coaxing words had any effect on the dog, whom I guessed to be lying. I sat down and spied the likely area with the glass. Luckily, after some minutes I spotted her black and white face peeping over a rock as she intently watched the sheep which remained undisturbed, grazing some considerable distance from her. Upon sighting her, I immediately called a command. Straight away, she started to move again, coming in on the sheep and wearing them steadily to do a first-class job of taking the cut down to the flats. At a distance you can generally detect the dog’s

The hogs come home from wintering. These would be delivered to the eastern end of Loch Monar. Strathmore, where Iain Thomson and his family lived, was at the west end. The absence of a proper road meant that he took a boat down the loch, and relied on his dog Nancy to bring the 150 hoggs safely back home.

whereabouts by the behaviour of moving sheep. Nancy seemed to sense, not once but on many occasions, when I lost her to view. She would stop until I spotted her. The moment I did so all was well and off she would go again. Quite often the instructions would remain the same, and I always tried to whistle or call as though I were seeing her. Invariably she seemed to know whether or not I had her in view and no amount of trick calls would have any effect. Nancy came as a puppy from a famous Border breeder and I found that the most successful dogs were invariably the ones I reared and trained myself. Complete confidence came to this dog by the time she was two and a half and a good example of her abilities happened one fine spring day. It was early in April that I got word the ewe hoggs were coming back to the glen from their wintering quarters down on the home estate to the east. Taking the Spray down to Monar, I had Nancy with me and arrived to find the lorries about to unload some 150 hoggs. Either Nancy and I must walk the sheep home,

Alison and Bob the rascal in the boat.

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some seven miles, and then return for the boat or I must put the dog to the test. The pathway home was a rough pony track, which for its first couple of miles was in pine woods and well away from the lochside. Deciding to try the dog, I set the sheep off through the iron deer fence gate and away from Monar pier. Nancy got firm commands for driving sheep before her, ‘Walk up, walk up, good dog, walk up.’ Hoping she would understand the plan I stood near the gateway and encouraged her to force the sheep away along the path. Several times she looked back as the distance separating us increased, but kept on working the sheep away on the westward track. Before she could look back again I ran to the boat and set off through the ‘narrows’ at the foot of the loch en route for home. Curious and perhaps a little anxious, I landed at a point on the lochside where the path eventually came close to the water’s edge. Mooring the Spray to a rock I went ashore to see what might be happening. I hid behind a tree so as to see what she really did without me.

BOOK SERIALISATION Some little time passed and then to my relief along came the leading hoggs moving quite smartly. From my hide I saw that the dog was in fact doing her job splendidly and padding along quietly behind them, keeping the flock moving steadily, but without the hurry that would have split them up. Attentive to her task, she was quite close before spotting me as I stepped out from the trees. The relief could be read on her face. I got a dancing welcome. She had made the grade. I set her off again, went back to the boat and up the loch to a point near home where I landed to open a gate into the hill park. Some two hours later Nancy and the hoggs arrived home. From that day, she went on to do many tasks which required her to anticipate and act on her own initiative. Seldom did she do anything stupid. Sheila was a much older dog and had been through one or two hands before coming to me. A bitch of great strength, perhaps rather short of leg, but with a wide chest giving plenty of heart-room, she was perhaps the best dog to stand heavy work that I ever owned. With sound, hard feet Sheila would often gather for three or four days at a time with a spell of fank work to follow.

‘I found a chain with which I tied her to a post near the kennel. Taking the rifle, I shot her there and then.’

The areas we covered both on our own hirsels and when helping neighbours were unquestionably amongst some of the highest, steepest and most extensive in the Highlands. As Nancy improved in her capabilities and got more to do, so Sheila became jealous. One day during some routine work west of Strathmore she went off on her own and did not come back down the glen with me that evening. Darkness fell, still no Sheila. Later that night we were sitting reading in the kitchen when sharp barking caught my ear.

Mischief at a month old, Nancy and Bob’s puppies.

Without waiting to put on a coat I hurried out. Sure enough, going over to the deer fence which surrounded our croft, I could make out Sheila barking wildly at a small cut of my own sheep. A call did not stop her. I went up to find that she had killed three ewes up against the fence. She was tearing frenziedly at a fourth. Only with difficulty could I stop her. I instantly destroyed the mauled sheep. Sadly taking Sheila down to the house, I found a chain with which I tied her to a post near the kennel. Taking the rifle, I shot her there and then. Both these bitches had exceptional eyesight. They could spot sheep at up to a mile as was often obvious to me by their actions. Neither of them, however, could match rascally Bob the Beardie. Bob came from Argyllshire and, I was to discover, brought some highly indifferent habits with him. These shortcomings were frequently brought to his attention but in character he could be likened to a truantplaying schoolboy. He hung his head, promised not to do it again, but couldn’t resist the temptation when bird-nesting times came round again. Never did I have a dog who could better portray shocked innocence. When getting a lurid cursing he did not cringe but would sit bolt upright, tufts of his long hair hanging over the widest unblinking eyes. Slowly he’d turn his head to gaze away to the distant hills - ‘Who

me? Shepherd, would I do such a thing?’ Bob, a black, rough-coated dog was of a type known as a ‘beardie’. Such a dog barks to order, drives sheep ahead of it and is excellent for handling bulk gatherings. I soon discovered that Bob did not relish being kept in a kennel and in a single night could easily gnaw his way out of any wooden structure. Chaining had the effect of producing a night’s barking.

‘Bob’s eyesight was exceptional. Any movement at our neighbour’s home over a mile away across the loch would set him barking’ After being a week home I gave up. Bob was left outside and took on the job of guarding the home, making his headquarters under the paraffin shed at the end of the house. One of this ruffian’s main enterprises in life was to achieve the status of combatant par excellence. His eyesight was exceptional and out on general duties he would while away the day gazing across the loch to Pait - something over a mile distant as the crow flies and clearly visible. Any enemy movement he detected would trigger a barking session. He would then watch Pait pier and should the movement suggest somebody getting into a rowing boat he would tear down to our pier to stand guard, barking furiously as they pulled towards him. The MacKay dogs were reluctant to

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disembark until Bob had been driven off with sticks and stones. Like a seasoned combatant, he was singularly adept at dodging a swinging boot or a well-aimed stone. Once the Pait intruders landed, a dog fight would always ensue and sometimes two or three before we could get off to the hill. Out and about his work he was the hardiest and most useful of dogs. He would climb up the roughest face, stop and look down to me and at the call, ‘Speak up, Bob’ he would give a salvo of barking which would set any gathering scampering for their lives. Working in behind sheep he would trot along for any distance and could then be persuaded to half turn them down the hill. Get the bulk of sheep together and you were home in half the time as he tirelessly ‘woofed’ them along the path. To my cost, he discovered that the deer ran faster and further than the sheep. They were much more challenging and entertaining. If he encountered deer whilst being directed towards sheep, no amount of shouting or cursing would recall his attentions to the path of duty. He considered the gathering must proceed without his services. This waywardness could largely be indulged but then he finally blotted his copy book. The MacKays and myself were stalking hinds for essential winter salting out on the slopes of Sgurr na Conbhaire. Positioning ourselves with great care after a tricky stalk, we moved in on a large herd of quietly grazing deer. Our rage knew no bounds as the hinds suddenly were stampeded by a black object trailing a large length of chain, crossing the skyline. Indeed such was my chagrin I fired a magazine wildly at the villain. My rage, the distance, and his charmed life kept Bob safe once again. This is an edited extract from Iain R Thomson’s Isolation Shepherd, which is published by Birlinn, price £8.99 67

pigs Scottish SPCA Recognition of Commitment to Welfare in Scottish Pig Industry The exceptional commitment of one individual, who has championed the importance of animal welfare in the Scottish pig industry over the past 25 years, has been recognised by the Scottish SPCA. Gordon McKen, who has held several key roles during his career in the Scottish pig industry, was presented with a Scottish SPCA 3rd Century medal by Stuart Earley, the charity’s Chief Executive in recognition of his focus on pig welfare. During the presentation of the award, Mr Earley said colleagues in the pig industry were right to describe Mr McKen as a “national treasure”. In 2009 the Scottish SPCA launched its welfare assured scheme for Scottish pigs in conjunction with QMS and one of the driving forces in making this a reality was Gordon McKen,” said Mr Earley.

“Gordon is someone who has focused on animal welfare throughout his career and the Scottish SPCA is delighted to award him its third century medal in recognition of his services to animal welfare in Scotland.” Mr McKen is currently Director of Scottish Pig Disease Control Centre, having recently retired from the position of Chief Executive of Scottish Pig Producers. He has also been a Quality Meat Scotland board member and was very involved in the early development and continued growth of quality assurance in the Scottish pig industry. This included working very closely with QMS on the award-winning Specially Selected Pork approved by the Scottish SPCA initiative. Mr McKen said he was very proud of what the Scottish pig

industry has achieved, both in driving forward the health status and welfare of pigs, primarily through the industry’s quality assurance scheme. “There have been challenges along the way, particularly in terms of the profitability of pig production in Scotland compared with other parts of

the world where welfare is less of a consideration,” said Mr McKen. “However, it has been a very rewarding journey to be part of. I am confident there are real opportunities ahead for the industry in Scotland and delighted to receive this award on behalf of the industry.”

Genetic and pig management consultancy launched Geneticist, Ed Sutcliffe, has launched a new consultancy company to provide a range of efficiency-enhancing services to pig producers and breeders in both the UK and overseas. The aim of the company, Data to Decisions Ltd, based at Cherry Burton, near Beverley in East Yorkshire, is to assist with recording, retrieving, interpreting and managing data for both commercial and pedigree breeders to ensure herds are well managed for optimum performance. A key component of this service is PigCom, the electronic recording service which Ed developed and which his company now owns. PigCom records and analyses production data and presents it in an understandable format. It enables trends in key performance indicators – such as changes in farrowing rate - to be identified to allow informed management decision-making. It will even assist producers to 68

evaluate breeding stock from different sources or changes to service routines during on-farm trials. Ed, who gained an MSc in animal breeding with distinction at Edinburgh University, believes he has a unique mix of skills: “There are people working in software development who have a background in animal breeding/ genetics and developers who have practical pig knowledge but few have all three. “Herd owners – and their advisers – need to know what is actually happening, rather than what they think is happening, and identify trends to make effective decisions.” This means having robust data in a format which lends itself to analysis and the ability to interrogate data to improve herd performance and profitability. In conjunction to genetic improvement companies, many large commercial herds breed

their own replacements and need to manage their data and genetic resources proficiently, he points out.

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The company already provides services to herds as far apart as Asia and the European mainland.

pigs How to deal with oedema disease IDT Biologika and Hysolv Animal Health have collaborated in producing a well-researched and handy six-page booklet — A guide to oedema disease in pigs — to help pig producers understand the causes, effects and treatment of this ailment. Author, F Javier Salquero, an independent European veterinary specialist in porcine health management, outlines the risk factors, how to identify oedema disease, current methods of treatment and prevention strategies. A helpful table shows, in see-at-a-glance form, the symptoms to be expected in newborn, suckling, post-weaned, grower-finishers and adult pigs. It concludes that treatment of oedema disease is generally unsuccessful and most pigs showing clinical signs die. However, preventive measures

include adjustment of feeding regimes, stress reduction, improved biosecurity and vaccination. “Oedema is a widespread, lethal and economicallyimportant disease in pigs, and there is increasing pressure in Europe to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock. Fully understanding this disease is a first step to control and prevention,” commented Hysolv director, Richard Brealey. A German calculation showed a reduction in margin of 83 Euros (£74) per sow, equivalent to 41,000 Euros (£32,500) for a 500sow herd, due to oedema. The booklet — printed on heavy duty glossy card – suitable for use in piggeries — is available, free, by visiting the Hysolv website: www.hysolv. co.uk

Winter warning for pig producers If you haven’t already done so, now’s the time for pig producers to check that their ventilation systems are working properly, before the really cold weather sets in, says a professional environmentalist. “It is vitally important that the fans and air inlets and outlets are working efficiently at minimum ventilation rates so that the pigs have sufficient fresh air but heat is not being wasted,” says Tim Miller, environmental specialist with ARM Buildings. “I’ve seen heated buildings where the minimum ventilation rate has been set too high and heat is simply being extracted and wasted. Monitoring has shown that this is very costly — amounting, on some units, to thousands of pounds through increased energy bills,” he warned.

A build-up of debris — such as caked-on meal – on fan blades and back-draught shutters, in particular, can reduce their ability to move sufficient air at low speed. Air inlets and outlets, too, can become clogged and fail to open or close properly. The solution, says Tim, is usually simply cleaning the equipment thoroughly. Then the minimum temperature should be set before walking down the house to check that each fan is working properly at this low setting and that the inlets have the correct apertures. This can take time in a large building, but it may also highlight any mechanical problems which can be dealt with by a specialist, so the effort is well worth while, he advises. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Beatha an eilean An Dùbhlachd 2015 Is fearr an tsláinte ná na táinte. (Health is better than wealth.) Sgrìobhadair Cailean Ceanadach, Neach-gairm, Coimisean na Croitearachd Tha beatha air eilean aocoltach ri seòrsa beatha sam bith eile, le farsaingeachdan mòra fosgailte agus èadhar fhìorghlan. Far nach eil feum ach ainneamh air do dhoras a ghlasadh, na h-iuchraichean fhàgail sa chàr agad agus cha mhothaichear dha, le gu leòr de thoradh ùr bho mhuir agus tìr agus gun mòr-bhùth ri fhaicinn. Is e pribhleid a th’ ann a bhith air do bhreith a-steach don t-seòrsa beatha seo nach dèan airgead a cheannach. Air mo bhreith ann an eilean Cholla do bheatha obrach air fearann, mar a tha mo theaghlach air a bhith a’ dèanamh o chionn ghinealaichean, tha mi air leantainn san traidisean sin agus a’ cumail an dà chuid crodh agus caoraich. Nuair a bha mi nam bhalach, bha againn ris an fheur a chur ann an sìgean le forcaichean is ràcain. An uair sin bhiodh am bèilear ceàrnagach a’ tighinn a bha aig an àm sin na leasachadh mìorbhaileach. An uair sin thàinig am bèilear cruinn agus goirid às dèidh sin ann an 1985 thàinig am plastaig dubh agus bha saidhleids againn ann am bèilichean mòra. Bha gach aon de na h-innleachdan sin ag atharrachadh beatha air eilean beag, agus dh’atharraich e beatha an eilein gu bràth. Ghluais cunnradairean a-steach agus bha am fogharadh aig an taigh ann an deagh àm ’s an uair sin bha iad a’ gluasad chun an ath neachceannaich. Bha an cèilidh às dèidh latha ag obair air an fheur seachad. 70

Sna làithean sin, bha stoc aig faisg air a h-uile neach; crodh, caoraich, cearcan, tunnagan agus mòran a bharrachd a bha a’ cuideachadh leis an teaghlach a bhiathadh. Cha robh mòrbhùth ann far am faighteadh aran, bainne agus na nithean a bha deatamach don bheatha làitheil. Cha robh dealan prìomhshruthach againn gu 1976, dìreach an seann ghineadair Lister anns an t-sabhal. Mar a tha cùisean air atharrachadh. Le glè bheag de dh’obair feòir, tha a’ mhòrchuid de dh’achaidhean a-nis air crìonadh gu luachair far am b’

àbhaist feur gorm a bhith a fàs ann am pailteas. Bha na h-achaidhean le fiadh-bheatha anns gach àite agus bha cadal air an oidhche tron t-samhradh caran doirbh le ròcail an traoin. San latha an-diugh, is e gnè ann an cunnart a th’ anns an traon agus tha e na eun tearc a tha a’ faotainn dìon sònraichte. Air an eilean agamsa, chan eil againn ach dòrlach de dh’eileanaich air fhàgail nach eil a’ faighinn dìon sam bith, gun mhòran dòchais air na h-àireamhan a mheudachadh agus tha a’ mhòrchuid dhiubh coltach rium fhìn, nas fhaisge air a’ pheinnsean. Na bliadhnaichean mìorbhaileach ud

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nar deugairean nuair a bhiodh an ceòl ri chluinntinn anns gach àite agus na pàrtaidhean a’ mairtinn bho Dhiardaoin gu Diciadain (le fiamh de potcheen san èadhar a’ dèanamh mìorbhailean dhaibhsan a bha fortanach gu leòr oiteag dheth fhaighinn!) Sna làithean a dh’fhalbh, bha sinn an eisimeil na h-aiseig airson ruigheachd air an t-saoghal a-muigh. Cha robh eadar-lìon no fòn-làimhe ri fhaicinn, ach dìreach nithean bunaiteach conaltraidh, ach shoirbhich leinn uile agus shoirbhich leinn gu math. An-diugh, tha gach ni nuadhaimsireil againn nar beatha: 4G, bann-leathan, seirbheis aiseig. Ach tha tràighean gainmhich mhìorbhaileach againn fhathast, làithean fada samhraidh, agus a dh’aindeoin a bhith air a’ Chosta an Iar, tha solas grèine do-chreidsinneach againn! Chan eil ar beatha dona idir. Tha e na urram dhomh a bhith air mo bhreith air an eilean seo agus tha beatha eileanach nam smior. Tha amannan air atharrachadh, tha luachan eadardhealaichte, tha gach neach ann an cabhaig a’ dèanamh barrachd is barrachd dìreach airson a bhith beò. Chan urrainn do dh’eileanach a bhith aig fois agus dìreach mar a bhios an làn a’ lìonadh ’s a’ traghadh, sin mar a tha na daoine. Ged as urrainn dhut eileanach a thoirt a-mach às an eilean, chan urrainn dhut an t-eilean a thoirt a-mach às an eileanach.

The perfect gift for farmers, whisky lovers & collectors We are delighted to announce our very own Special Limited Edition Highland Malt Scotch Whisky.

Tuathanachas Alba (Gaelic: Farming Scotland)

16 year old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Specially selected for

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(P+P is included, UK only)

Only 76 bottles available. Each bottle is individually hand numbered within in its own silk lined presentation box. Hand numbered tasting notes are included to enhance your whisky experience. *We are delighted to support the RSABI Charity. We will donate £5 to the RSABI from every bottle sold.

TO ORDER YOUR LIMITED EDITION WHISKY ✂

1) Order by phone on 01738 639747. (To reserve your order and arrange payment). 2) Or fill in the form below (enclosing your payment)

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Send to: Farming Scotland Magazine, Tolastadh, 18 Corsie Drive, Perth, PH2 7BU

estate Country Sports Customer Service By Linda Mellor Country sports tourism is a big revenue maker for Scotland; the estimated annual value is in the region of £240m. In the UK there are over 4 million country sports participants, with many more overseas, including 39 million in the USA. For many, Scotland remains the number one sporting destination for shooting, fishing and deer stalking. When it comes to country sports the people on the front line are the game-keepers, ghillies and deer-stalkers. They are often the first person a customer will have contact with when making an initial enquiry about availability. They can spend a large amount of time with customers setting up their shooting day, getting them out in a boat to the best pool on the river or stalking into a beast. Their knowledge and the way the day is delivered is something the customer puts their trust in and relies upon. The right level of service from front line people can turn a good experience into a memorable life-changing one, securing customer loyalty and repeat business for many years. A bad experience is talked about forever, reflecting not only on the individual responsible but the sport itself. Cameron Storie is the game-keeper on the 5,000 acre Balbirnie Estate, Fife said: “We do everything we can to ensure our customers have a good sporting day and they enjoy themselves on the estate. We take care of the small details like making sure the bothy log fire is on so we can have lunch in the warmth after a wet, wintry morning shooting, it can make all the difference to the day’s overall enjoyment and who wants to go back out feeling cold and putting on wet clothing.” The customer service does not end after the shooting 72

has finished. “We use a local hotel, the Lomond Hills Hotel in Freuchie, because they look after our customers very well, this gives me peace of mind that my customers will be happy when their day’s shooting on the estate has finished. The hotel openly welcomes customers who shoot and they go further than most to ensure they have a comfortable stay. They have a secure gun-room on the premises so guns can be locked away and will also tailor meals to suit the shooting party. If they have been out early on the geese, this could mean a late breakfast. This is the sort of attention-todetail customer service I would want to experience if I was going shooting.” In the highly competitive country sports sector excellent customer service could be the sole reason for a customer returning year on year and bringing their family and friends. It is not uncommon for loyal customers to travel to the same shoot each season because they are confident the keeper and his team will look after them and, although a day’s sport is important, many people place high value on the company of the keeper and the banter. Additional facilities such as accommodation play an important part in the customer experience as it will be directly

associated with the shoot day. A comfortable hotel and attentive staff who take care of the guests will not only add to the enjoyment but it will also enhance the trip and encourage them to stay longer or return next season. Cameron continues, “I think a sign of getting it right can be gauged by the amount of repeat business we get and the amount of recommendations we receive. A lot of our customers will book up their shoot days a year in advance, often going for the same dates, and when they come back to the estate it is like meeting up with old friends.” Laughing, Cameron says, “I have been seeing some of these guys for more than 14 years and they are definitely old friends as none of us are getting any younger!” Customer service relates to the service provided to customers before, during and after a purchase. The service should extend to all types of customers including potential, new and existing so it generates a positive experience for everyone who has connected with a business. Stanley Fishing consists of 4 beats on the river Tay and is run by ghillie Bob White. “I think the customer experience and level of care starts from the very first phone call. I feel it is

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very important the experience is consistently good from the start right through to the customer leaving the beat.” Salmon Fishing has changed over the years, we no longer have fish jumping everywhere and there has been a huge drop in the daily catches. “We are all aware new business is hard to find especially when there is a lack of fish so we need to work smarter in keeping our existing clients,” said Bob. “To a certain extent you are in charge of your own destiny, it is up to you to realise the importance of handling your customers correctly and matching their expectations. This is when the knowledge of an experienced ghillie really comes into play. If you know the river then it is your job to put your customers into the best fishing possible.” Bob continues, “It is also important the beat is fished properly and everyone is kitted out correctly with the right equipment, this attention to detail will also improve their chances of catching a fish and the customer will know he or she has been looked after.” “Honesty” is highly important says Deer Stalker and Goose Guide Scott Cruickshank of the North Aberdeenshire based SAC Shooting. “When you are dealing with wild animals there are no guarantees and I think that is where some country sports business people fail as they feel compelled to promise something they have no control over and, ultimately, may be unable to deliver. That lets the customer down as it is poor service from the outset.” If there are many unacceptable customer experiences and they are not resolved correctly then the sport’s reputation will also suffer. Scott has been running SAC Shooting for 18 years. His customers travel from

estate

On the Peg by Linda Mellor Australia, USA, Canada, South Africa and Europe to shoot and stalk with him, 80% of them are returning customers. “I am very honest with my customers. I tell them everything I can about the set up, the prices and answer any questions so they fully understand. When they turn up to shoot or to stalk I want them to be ready to enjoy their day and not worried about it because they have no idea of what to expect.” When you are around guns, making everyone safety conscious is a highly important part of customer service. Scott said, “My customers are up here on holiday and it is important I provide them with a safe and happy experience. I take my time going through the safety briefing, it is important everyone understands what safe shooting means. When we are out stalking I always carry the rifle for the customer and the shot will only be fired on my say so. Safety comes before everything; I would rather not shoot and stay 100% safe. If we are shooting geese everyone understands there has to be no unsafe shooting, no swinging through and no shooting over heads. All guns have to be emptied before they leave the hide and if anyone disregards the safety advice or puts any of us at risk I will tackle them.” There are thousands of front line people employed throughout the country sports sector in Scotland and delivering customer service to a vast range of visitors.

Andrew Grainger Project Coordinator Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group (SCSTG) said, “The SCSTG identified a number of years ago the importance of Excellent Customer Care to help deliver a world class tourism experience to any country sports customer coming to Scotland. The Excellence in Country Sports Customer Care Course is intended to equip Ghillies, Keepers and Stalkers with the necessary skills to deliver that world class experience. An important element of the training is sharing knowledge of customer expectations gained by those who help deliver sport on a daily basis.” Scotland’s country sports tourism business is very important to the country’s economy. Taking steps to ensure those in the frontline are representing the country and the sport to the best of their abilities is a worthy investment for securing repeat business and attracting new. The comprehensive day long course covers a range of topics and seeks to promote the importance of excellent communication between the provider and client at all potential contact points. The date for the next Country Sports Customer Care Course is 17 March 2016 at the BASC Scottish Centre, Trochry, Perthshire. For more information or to book a place please email ecscc.enquiries@ cstgscotland.com or call 01350 723226

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It is that time of year when you expect the wintry weather to make an appearance but the prolonged dreich conditions and strong winds have added to the challenges of Scotland’s gamekeepers. Graeme Paterson, a keeper on the Geddes Estate, Inverness-shire, for 13 years, organises 10 commercial days over the 1,000 acre low ground shoot. “We started with a challenge as we lost a batch of 2,000 young chicks from our supplier in the first week to a yoke sac infection. The changeable weather has made things difficult as well, today it is mild, wet and windy but last night there was a frost. It’s not the type of wintry weather we are familiar with; a few years back I can recall cancelling shoot days because of snow.” said Graeme. One night in late November the winds were gale force, Graeme was very concerned about the birds so he went out to check on them with a spotlight and found pheasants all over

the place, blown from their roosting positions and very vulnerable to prey. Graeme continues, “The weather is an issue but it is the increasing Buzzard population causing us the most problems. Every day we are seeing them, either flying off a kill or hanging around. Having so many of them can have a big impact on the birds, in addition to killing birds, they are also spooking them. Obviously, we follow all the official advice to scare them away but they are bold” Buzzard numbers are on the increase throughout the UK. In the 19th century they were hunted almost to extinction but numbers have soared since they gained legal protection in 1954. Higher numbers of birds means they will have to fly further afield to find their own territory. “Last year a young Goshawk visited and, over 2 days, killed 85 poults, “said Graeme, “When you run a small shoot these numbers can make a big impact.”

estate Scots forestry a hidden economic success story Time for a demonstration farm for Scotland’s game and wildlife The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust has for years considered what a tremendous asset for Scotland a demonstration farm would be. Not a demonstration farm in the form of a monitor farm, or a farm that becomes a demonstration farm for a handful of days each year, but a farm where the main, fulltime objectives are to demonstrate that good farming practice and game shooting management can sustain income and wildlife. GWCT already has such a demonstration farm at Loddington in Leicestershire the heart of its hugely successful Allerton Project. For more than 30 years Allerton has shown that farming can be, first, economically productive and also environmentally beneficial. Allerton has helped to develop thinking about how farmers manage their land for food production and for wildlife, and has provided a living, breathing example for politicians and policy makers to see at first hand the benefits of shoot management to the conservation of other species and the wider countryside. The Allerton model is relevant for much of arable Scotland. But the typical Scottish farm might be a mix of arable, pasture and woodland – rough grazing and edge of hill. Indeed, this type of farming accounts for 36 per cent of Scottish farmland and supports 24,500 jobs. It’s also typical of the grass- dominated agriculture in south-west and north-west England and Northern Ireland. In all 6.6M ha of farmland in the UK is of mixed, hill-edge land. There is no argument that some farming approaches can place wildlife under pressure – as exemplified by the decline

in numbers of grey partridge, lapwing and curlew on our arable land. This is understandable as hill-edge farming has tiny or no margin economically and getting a cut of silage is often the main priority. GWCT believes however that with the right demonstration model it will be possible to show how to manage biodiversity back into Scottish upland farms; that the quality and productivity of the land can be improved along with the quality of its livestock and its shooting whilst sustaining and encouraging wildlife populations. The political climate right now lends itself to having such a demonstration farm available. The CAP and the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill increasingly present challenging proposals for those who invest in farming, and in shooting, and who enjoy wildlife. Practical examples, and there are a number of projects already in which the Trust is engaged across Scotland focusing on different aspects of game and wildlife management and different species, can demonstrate good practice backed by good science. Those who make policy should be interested in seeing such projects succeed. And there lies the rationale for a Scottish demonstration farm for game and wildlife. It can show how farm income and wildlife are compatible; how management for shooting has an important role to play in such an enterprise; and that private investment remains the most important means of supporting farming and shooting. A Scottish demonstration farm for game and wildlife would be a huge Christmas gift for Scotland – and it’s not that far off becoming a reality.

A new report reveals that Scotland’s forestry sector is a hidden success story and is contributing nearly £1 billion to the economy through forest management, timber processing and recreation – a substantial increase from the previous figure of £670 million.   The forestry sector, including tourism and recreation, is also a major employer, supporting over 25,000 jobs across Scotland.   There has been a significant boost to employment levels in the forest management and processing sector with over 19,500 people now working in the industry – a jump of 6,500 (about 50 per cent) compared to the previous report back in 2008.   Importantly, many of these jobs are located in rural locations therefore forestry is supporting more fragile economies.   The work of the sector is also vital in enabling other key Scottish industries to grow, such as in the energy, construction, tourism and potentially biotechnology fields.   Speaking at a meeting with top forestry leaders later today (Monday 30th), Environment Minister Dr Aileen McLeod will officially launch the new Forestry Commission Scotland report:

Dr McLeod said:  “Scottish forestry is very much a hidden success story.   “It’s no surprise that given the increase in timber production over the past seven years that the sector’s contribution to the Scottish economy has grown with it.   “However, it is the size of the economic growth that is really impressive. And the 50 per cent increase in employment within the timber sector is brilliant news.   “With projected increases in wood fibre availability over the next 20 years and the industry’s appetite for innovation, adding value and investment, the Scottish Government looks forward to continuing to support this important sector.  “Whilst this report focuses on the economics, we should not forget the other key benefits that forestry brings too. Our forests and woodlands create beautiful landscapes, are crucial in mitigating climate change and are increasingly recognised for the positive impacts they have on people’s health and well-being.   “Scotland’s forestry sector is clearly delivering on many fronts and I want more people to know just what a success story it is and its benefits and contribution to Scotland’s economy, environment, people and communities.”

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estate OFF THE HOOK

Feast your eyes on a stunning business opportunity

By Francis Red

SET against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and lochs, The Boathouse restaurant at Kingairloch on Scotland’s west coast offers the ultimate ‘getting away from it all’ business opportunity for those with a passion for the finest provincial foods and rural living. Bidwells’ Fort William office has brought to the letting market this unique and popular restaurant in an idyllic location on the banks of Loch a’ Choire within the 14,000 acre family owned and managed Kingairloch Estate, about 25 miles from Fort William and the stunning Morvern peninsula. Trading for over four years, the restaurant has gained an excellent reputation and benefits from the trade of local residents, visitors to the numerous self-catering properties on Kingairloch Estate and wider Lochaber area. The Boathouse is also a welcome anchorage for yachtsmen who take advantage of the restaurant’s private moorings. As the name suggests, the building was originally a boathouse and has undergone significant restoration in recent years, transforming it from a near derelict building to a modern and well-equipped restaurant evoking and taking advantage of its waterside location. With 30 covers, plus

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another 10 on the outside decking area, the business has good capacity to cater for local and passing trade and it is hoped the restaurant will be ready to open its doors again by Easter 2016 to take advantage of the new tourist season. There is also a detached three-bedroomed house available to rent on the estate by separate negotiation.

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the catches. If you are

to seeing an increase in

watching the catches or

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the lack of them then,

Kingairloch Estate Kingairloch is located on the Loch Linnhe coastline and is only a three hour drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow. Over the past 15 years the estate has grown and diversified to offer a range of unique, pet friendly self-catering properties, the Boathouse Restaurant, farming and traditional sporting activities. The area’s topography and vegetation creates wonderful habitats for a rich and diverse wildlife population including red deer, feral goats, pine martins, otters, eagles and many more species. Looking to the future, the estate has invested in hydroelectric energy schemes and sustainable forestry projects and by taking this sustainable diversified approach, the estate will continue to thrive for future generations. For more information, please contact James Allan, tel: 01397 707640

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Over

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with another human.

estate Initiative with Kew Gardens to Protect Scotland’s Trees Takes Root

CAREFUL CONSIDERATION REQUIRED FOR SCOTTISH AGRICULTURE IN 2016 By Stuart Young, chief executive of Dunecht Estates and chair of Scottish Land & Estates’ Agricultural Holdings Strategy Group

With a host of new pests and diseases attacking the UK’s native treescape, a new consortium of Scottish organisations, working with Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank, are tackling the threat, as part of the UK National Tree Seed Project. The UK does not currently have comprehensive and genetically representative seed collections of native tree populations for research and use in practical conservation. The UK National Tree Seed Project, launched in 2013, seeks to fill the gap and will make seed collections available for researchers working on challenges facing UK woodlands and forestry such as pests and diseases and climate change. The Project has been rolled out across England with great success, and will now be extended throughout Scotland and Wales. Thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, seeds from Scotland’s best loved and most vulnerable trees and shrubs will be collected and protected in long-term storage in the vaults of the Millennium Seed Bank facility at Wakehurst in Sussex. The Millennium Seed Bank already safeguards practically the entire UK flora in its vaults 76

and works to restore native plants and trees to their natural habitats. Fifteen organisations across Scotland are partnering with Kew for the project, including Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Wildlife Trust, Trees for Life, and the Woodland Trust, among several other conservation organisations. Many of these partners already undertake tree seed collection and use at a local level but MSB staff have also provided training in order to meet the rigorous standards required for the Millennium Seed Bank collections. Together, this consortium of like-minded organisations will ensure that the collections already protected in Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank will grow and become more comprehensive, eventually representing the full genetic diversity of Scotland’s tree populations. This will create a vital resource for those working to develop more resilient woodlands across the UK. The project will also raise the capacity for collection and supply of seed of native species for planting across Scotland. Forestry Commission Scotland is a key partner, providing advice on target species distribution and help with collecting seeds.

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The New Year has arrived and it will undeniably be another important year for the future of agriculture and rural Scotland. Taking a moment to look back to January last year, we were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the final report of Agricultural Holdings Legislation Review Group. The Review Group may have taken its time but it drilled deep into the plethora of issues facing tenant farming. Fast forward 12 months to January 2016 and we are waiting once again to see what the future holds for the sector as the Land Reform Bill which includes agricultural holdings provisions unfolds. What’s clear is that the more things change particularly retrospectively, the more that uncertainty and diminishing confidence prevail. We have now had time to digest the Stage One report on the Bill by the Rural Affairs and Climate Change Committee which has indeed made some very important observations such as the need to introduce a new modern – and hopefully flexible – repairing lease. The Committee also underlined the need for the legislation to comply with the European Convention on

Human Rights. It is essential that the rights of both agricultural landlords and tenants are respected and no-one wants to see another Salvesen v Riddell case. Despite recent illinformed comment from some quarters, landlords want to see an end to the bickering over rent reviews. We recognise that there will be change but it is essential that we end up with a process that works. Regrettably, we also agree with the committee that the Bill may not achieve its objective of maintaining or increasing the amount of land available to let. Such an outcome would be a lost opportunity for farming and the rural economy. Yet, bizarrely, what the committee is suggesting – that the Scottish Government considers a right to buy for tenant farmers in ‘certain’ circumstances – could take us even further away from achieving that important aim. We hope that rather than revisiting an issue that had been put to bed every effort is made to deliver legislation that serves the sector and agriculture well. That’s in Scotland’s interest and the Government and the Parliament has much careful thinking to do in the months ahead.

For more information www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk Telephone : 0131 653 5400

horses Dates for SEIB Trailblazers National Championships 2016

Senior Elementary Champion - Suzanne Gregson (Vanburen)

The 2016 SEIB Trailblazers Championships will once again take place at the impressive Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. The dates have moved to ensure the Championship Finals are within the school holiday period, which varies around the country and fits within the venues schedule of events. The senior and junior Dressage Championships will be on 29 – 31 July, Showing and Working Hunter Championships on 30 – 31 July, senior and junior Show Jumping Championships on 3 – 6 August and Solution Saddles Combined Training Championships on 4 – 5 August. Following the same format as the 2015 SEIB Trailblazers Championships, there will be

optional dressage and show jumping warm up days. The dressage finals will be held over the Saturday and Sunday 30 – 31 July. The junior and senior show jumping championships will include optional warm up classes taking place on Wednesday 3 August and the Championship Finals being held on two out of the three championship days between Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 August. Following the growing interest in seniors competing on ponies, it has been agreed to maintain the 65cm, 75cm & 85cm Senior on Ponies Championships at the 2016 SEIB Trailblazers Championships. There are currently no restrictions on seniors riding

Senior Showjumping 75cm -Kirsty Faulkner, Jammy Dodger

ponies in senior Trailblazers first round qualifiers and the change will enable senior riders to compete in 65cm, 75cm & 85cm senior second rounds and to qualify for senior on ponies finals at the Championships. With the superb facilities at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, finalists will enjoy that unbeatable big championship atmosphere, the thrill of riding in the grand arenas and the prospect of completing a lap of honour in magnificent style. The popular Masterclass in the Park will also be taking place again at this year’s finals. Last year Geoff Billington and Adam Kemp wowed the crowds with their entertaining and informative demonstrations.

A full timetable for the Championships is available for download from the Trailblazers Championships website, along with further information on the finals. First round qualifiers have now begun for the 2016 SEIB Trailblazers Championship Finals. A full list of first and second round dates and venues, as well as comprehensive details of the Trailblazers series, is available on the website, www. trailblazerschampionships.com. You can keep up to date with the latest news by following us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TrailblazersChampionships, or contact our team in the Trailblazers central office on info@showdirect. co.uk if you have any other queries.

Mud glorious mud! If you are battling to keep your horse’s legs dry, clean and mud free both in the field and out hacking, then award winning Golly Galoshes could be the solution to expensive and messy potions and lotions! Golly Galoshes are clever equine gaiters, which are both breathable and waterproof and designed to be worn over your horse’s boots and bandages to help prevent your horse’s protective legwear (and legs) getting soggy and muddy. After use, simply remove (revealing clean, dry boots!), rinse off mud and/or hang to dry, ready for use again and because they are incredibly lightweight,

they have minimal drying time, so unlike your horse’s legs or boots won’t stay soaking wet for hours! Available in a variety of colours from smart Navy and Black for schooling and training through to fluorescent and reflective versions for safety out hacking, Golly Galoshes can also be used over medical dressings both in the stable and during field convalescence. Golly Galoshes are tried and trusted by horse owners worldwide across all disciplines, including established UK eventer Victoria Bax and Multi Gold Medallist Para- Dressage rider Natasha Baker, helping to

keep their boots and bandages pristine, clean and dry both for schooling and out hacking.

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Prices start from £25.99 per pair Miniature Pony through to £34.99 for horse sizing.

horses Equestrian Tried & Tested By Melanie Scott

Toggi Keddington jacket

What they say: a waterproof and breathable jacket expertly designed by riders for riders. It features articulated sleeves, action back, shaped hem and back vents for comfort and movement whilst in and out the saddle. Colour: black Sizes: 8-20 Price from: £140 Review: I like the design and styling of this jacket. It is slim styling and shaped in all the right places for women but has enough room to fit winter layers underneath. The fabric also feels robust and durable and has been well tested in a wet Scottish winter to stay waterproof. There’s Velcro wrist cuffs and the chunky two-way zip feels high quality and has a decent waterproof fabric back to it. I like the addition of side vents that are designed to sit over the saddle whilst riding. It’s also long enough when you are in the saddle to stop draughts going up your back. There are lots of pockets and the fleece lined inner zipped pocket is really useful for small valuables and the fleece lined hand pockets are a good size. I like the hood, it rolls away neatly into collar when riding and is easily unfolded when you are back working on the yard. My only criticism is that it lacks reflective piping or material on it. It’s only available in black so it’s too dull to wear out hacking worn on its own. But if it could be redesigned to include some reflective parts it would get full marks. From: www.toggi.com

Hot Togs Ultra Thermal Leggings What they say: Hot Togs’ Ultra Thermal Leggings are ideal for riders and anyone else who has to spend time outside during the winter months. They have a brushed inner layer to trap warm air next to the skin and are breathable and wicking. They are side seam free, are made using four way stretch fabric and have a close fit with soft grip ankles to ensure they stay in the perfect position. Colours: black or nude. Sizes: small to large. RRP £15. Review: As someone who feels the cold these have been invaluable this winter. They’ve been very comfortable to wear and the nude colour means they can be worn under light coloured breeches without showing through. They have an excellent stretch and unlike some leggings do not go baggy at the knee – and they also do not slip down or similarly do not ride up at the ankle to expose bare skin! They wash well and are excellent value for money. From: www.hottogs.co.uk

Back On Track Polo Neck Sweater What they say: Back on Track® was developed in Sweden, and all garments are made from unique Welltex® fabric with infra-red technology. Ceramic particles are fused into the fibres of the fabric and they cause long wave infra-red heat to radiate back towards the body. The body responds positively to the infra-red wave, increasing circulation, which can relieve joint tension, maximise performance and help avoid injury. Colour: black Size: XS-XXL RRP £48.00. Review: Initially I felt this was slightly looser than I expected, as an underlayer I would have preferred it to be more fitted design. However, it doesn’t ruck up when other clothes are put over the top so stays comfortable as an extra under layer of warmth. The sweater covers problem areas such as the neck, shoulders, arms, back and goes right down to cover the hips. The company say they are designed to reflect your own body warmth and can help alleviate the pain associated with inflamed muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints, by promoting blood flow to the area. It’s easy to wash and retains its shape, elasticity and colour without shrinking. It’s longer length of back means it tucks into breeches well. I would recommend this product for anyone who feels the cold during the winter. Also it can be used as prevention and treatment of injuries and also sped up the recovery rate after strenuous exercise. Visit www.backontrack.com/uk/home/ 78

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horses

EQUINE ANGLE

Another dressage name joins ‘team aloeride’

British Eventing Scotland Awards Ball By Melanie Scott

Natural organic aloe vera feed supplement Aloeride are delighted to announce that they have another high profile rider joining ‘Team Aloeride’ with international dressage rider Leah Beckett. Leah who is based in Surrey, is a former pony and young rider medallist and previously rode for the Woodlander Stud, winning the Badminton Young Horse Championships in 2014.

The sponsorship deal will see Aloeride feeding Leah’s top horses, including Grand Prix prospective, Rimskij Korsakov, a 15 year stallion by Rubenstein. Leah joins top show judge, rider and producer Loraine Homer, fellow international dressage rider Lucy Cartwright and top eventer and exracehorse trainer Victoria Bax.

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The annual British Eventing Scotland Awards Ball, held at Airth Castle, saw the 2015 annual trophy presentations. Perthshire’s Stephanie O`Neil and her own Millridge Auroras Diamond received the Stirlingshire Saddle Fitters Arena Event Trophy for leading the points series. The best Scot in the BE100 under 18 Championships at Weston Park, went to Izzy Bamford (16) and Eloise Plant won the ON under 18 championship award. Eloise also won the Robert Wilson Memorial Trophy for the BE80 points, whilst Sutherland’s Amanda Waugh and her own Fan Daby Angus took the BE90 series. Laura Runciman topped the BE100 under 18 points; Alex Meikle from East Lothian took the BE100 with Damdeasy. The best Scottish U18 open novice qualifier performance by a Grade 3 horse was awarded to Rosa Onslow (16) on Templebready Miss Bailey. The best placed Scot in the CCI2* at Hopetoun International went to Isabella Innes Ker on the Duchess of Roxburghshire’s Rosses Captain. The best placed Scot at Hopetoun CCI1*

went to Euan Hammersley on Dionysus N. Karon Carson from East Lothian and Finding Nico won the Scottish champion BE90 trophy, Roxburghshire’s Tiffany Mactaggart on David Mactaggart`s Highly Delighted collected the BE100 prize and James Sommerville received the novice award. The U18 showing outstanding horsemanship/ sportsmanship over the year went to Anne Thomson. The highest Scottish BE points winner 18 years or under was presented to Lucinda Crawford, 14, and Isabella Mackenzie (17). 2015 FEI Senior European Championship squad member Wills Oakden won the highest BE points winner aged 25 years or under. Greystone Midnight Melody, ridden by Wills, was the highest BE points winning horse bred in Scotland, with Wills also taking home the Scottish Equestrian Association Trophy for the highest BE points winning rider in Scotland. The leading horse on the Scottish circuit was presented to Turbo Toy, ridden by Lucinda Crawford, and the highest ranked Scottish rider in the FEI Rankings went to Nicky Roncoroni.

futurefarmer Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs Agri and Rural Affairs Conference 2015 - inspires the future of Scotland The light frost on the ground and the chill in the air did not stop more than 100 young farmers taking to farms in November for the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs Agri and Rural Affairs Conference. Following the theme of opportunities for young people, “Cultivating Futures” took place in Dundee welcoming members from Orkney, Dumfries and Galloway, Border Federation and everywhere in between.

Still in its infancy with the conference taking place for the first time in 2014, the event offers an opportunity for members to learn direct from the industry, have a voice among their peers about the agricultural sector and network with experts offering a range of experiences and skills. Commencing on a Friday evening with a welcome dinner that was joined by the principal sponsors Tesco, Massey Ferguson and SRUC, Agri and Rural Affairs Chairman Sarah Allison said “The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Cultivating Futures’, and the entire event has been built around just that. It aims to inspire you as the future of our industry to fulfil your potential and make our industry that we work and play in a success in years to come” She continued “It is fair to say that 2015 has been a farming year that many of us 80

would like to forget, however my motto is that where there is adversity, there is opportunity. As the future of agriculture we have never been better placed to take advantage of the current situation and use it to build a better future. Food and drink are two of the fundamental needs for human life, and we should all be so honoured to be part of an industry that carries so much responsibility” After Dinner Speakers Whilst both after dinner speakers Neil Wilson and Wallace Hendrie reflected on their time within the young farmers movement, they both were keen to express that when we face difficulties within agriculture we must look at alternative opportunities. At present many in the sector are production driven, not consumer focused and this is something that must change in order to have more

control within the market place. Neil briefly focused on AgriHive, an initiative recently brought to Scotland that aims to find solutions in a crisis situation by bringing together a range of industry bodies. SAYFC Agri and Rural Affairs are part of this new initiative and recently attended the first meeting which was held in London earlier this month. Neil told the group about their new competition where members look at a case study and provide solutions with various classes including one for young farmers (under 30). He was able to officially reveal at the conference that the prize would be a return trip to Australia with flights and spending money. Travel was a key theme for the after dinner speakers with Wallace talking about his role as Chairman of the Nuffield Scholarship Trust, and how the individuals that take part not

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only grow in confidence but often have that “light-bulb” moment when they are away travelling that allows them to make a change to the benefit of their business. He was keen to encourage members to step away from their farm for a short period to try something different and use the time to gain new skills and reflect on what they want to achieve before returning to their family farm. Breakout Sessions A range of breakout sessions were offered to provide some more technical learning with speakers Tesco, Bruce Farms and AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds touching on marketing your product and brand. Whilst Tesco’s gave an overview of their business and support for the farming community, Bruce Farms talked about business growth and how a family business can take advantage

futurefarmer of more than one opportunity with good planning and support. AHDB Cereals and Oilseeds challenged members to work out what was important when selling their products whilst encouraging them to use the many free benchmarking resources available to guide their decisions. Turcan Connell talked about succession and where and how a family business can be protected with careful planning and those much needed discussions, whilst Blade Farming introduced their business which aims to help maintain a sustainable beef farm business through contract calf rearing units. Farm Visits Although it was a 7.30am start all delegates were up and enthusiastic for the farm visits. They had an option of three to attend first and then they all visited Mackies of Taypack. New Entrants Around 30 delegates made the journey to visit Kindrum Park which is farmed by first generation farmer, Jim Fairlie. Despite the cold weather, a lively discussion kept spirits up and it was good to see members asking questions and engaging. Jim described the journey he has made from being brought up in the town to starting out as a shepherd and onto running a successful contract farming beef and sheep enterprise on his Perthshire hill farm. He certainly made it clear to the delegates that with a bit of drive and enginuity, anything is possible. We covered the benefits and the pitfalls of contract farming that he has encountered since he took over the running of the farm. The delegates were encouraged to streamline their businesses, keep capital costs low and focus on producing top quality produce. He took us to see his Galloway cows which he

uses to produce to quality beef which he markets as a niche product at events such as T in the Park. Jim is active in educating the local community in food and farming, and was heavily involved in setting up the first farmers market in Perth and gave us an insight into how he has used these markets to his benefit. His passion for the Scottish food industry was clear to see and it rubbed off on the members who visited, with several referencing his experiences in later discussions during the afternoon breakout sessions. His ideas and visions for the future were of great interest and delegates were left with lots of food for thought. We really appreciated Jim kindly taking time out of his busy schedule to give us an insight into his business Renewables and Vegetables The most popular visit of the three was to Peacehilll Farm where the Forster family have been farming since 1926. The 1500 acre unit comprises of crops, potatoes, vegetables and chickens. But it was the new AD Plant that the group were keen to hear about which is currently in construction and due to start work in the next few weeks. Ross Forster who hosted the group explained how whilst the unit was an expensive outlay, the rewards would outweigh these costs. The system is fully computerised allowing him to monitor what goes into the AD plant and the level of output. The group were very impressed by the scale and high level of detail available. Dairy The final group visited Ardgarth Farm owned by Lundie Farming Ltd. The dairy farm milks 540-cross bred cattle through a 54 point rotary parlour milking on a grassbased system. The business only took over the farm last

autumn and Farm Manager Martin Kearney was keen to express that the business was not without challenges. Some of the land has been re-seeded and concrete steps have been built to allow the cattle easy access to the parlour. It was clear the visit really touched members with many of them coming away with real admiration for Martin and his team, and an enthusiasm to continue farming and looking for opportunities despite the hurdles that may occur along the way. They also heard from Stuart Martin of the Scottish Dairy Hub who reassured the group that through his initiative and other sources there is support and guidance for those within the dairy sector.

Lunch and Dinner A lamb casserole lunch with fresh, local vegetables was kindly sponsored by Royal Bank of Scotland whilst the beef enjoyed at dinner was supported by ABP Perth.

Mackies of Taypack All three groups then visited Mackes of Taypack where George and Russell Taylor kindly hosted the group. George was keen to talk the group the background of the business and explained how prior to produce crisps they were very focused on supplying one supermarket with potatoes. When this contract fell through it was clear that by putting â&#x20AC;&#x153;all their eggs in one basketâ&#x20AC;? they had put the business at risk. It was here that they look at diversification, a common factor within the farming community in their area. After discussions with Mackies who were also looking to produce crisps, it was agreed there was only room for one quality crisp in Scotland so the two businesses teamed up and today are in the top 10 recognised brands within Scotland. They group then had a rare opportunity to look around the factory and watch the production process hearing about the different methods and choices that the Taylor family made in order to take advantage of an opportunity that has exceeded their expectations and continues to do so.

Other Speakers Campbell Scott of Massey Ferguson welcomed the group on Sunday morning and talked about the marketing and brand behind their products. He recommended that every business should spend approx. 1% of their turnover on profit but this needs to be carefully managed with a good marketing strategy resulting in growth, an increased positive reputation and securing the future of the business. It was clear that this cannot be through one single element as he talked about video footage, attending events and shows, online marketing, print to product research and development. The Sunday morning was also joined by SAC who talked about the Scottish Enterprise Rural Leadership Programme which they facilitate and how stepping away to look at your leadership skills and objectives can reap rewards. CKD Galbraith discussed SRDP schemes and Lantra Scotland introduced their Modern Apprenticeship scheme matching potential employees with employers.

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Interactive Session To end a successful Saturday, member were split into groups and asked to look at the future of Scottish agriculture. This focused on how they see it now, what challenges they feel they face and how they feel these can be overcome. The groups then had to present their thoughts to the full delegation which created discussion and allowed members to see how similar their views are throughout Scotland.

futurefarmer

20 new CLAAS Service Engineers complete their studies

Twenty young CLAAS Service Engineers have started the next stage of their careers, having recently completed their four-year CLAAS Agricultural Technician Apprenticeship and been awarded their Graduation Certificates. CLAAS is the only UK agricultural machinery company to offer two training bases for its apprentices, both of which follow the same curriculum. Of the 20 new CLAAS Technicians, 14 are from the north of England, Scotland and Ireland and studied at the SRUC Barony campus at 82

Dumfries. The other six students from dealers in the southern half of England studied at Reaseheath College in Cheshire. Modern agricultural tractors, combines and foragers are highly complex machines, incorporating advanced electrical, hydraulic and mechanical components. Aside from basic mechanical skills, the modern Service Engineer therefore needs to be able to understand far more complex aspects such as modern engine management systems, CANBUS, ISOBUS, GPS, etc.

When we formed in 1938 our main objective was to offer personal development opportunities at all levels and for all interests, something that is still true today. This means sometimes looking beyond the obvious training and events, and creating a programme that encompasses activities that might not automatically be associated with “Young Farmers”. We are very proud to be Scotland’s largest rural youth organisation and continue to promote our diverse membership including doctors, dentists, teachers, beauticians, accountants, lawyers and of course there are also farmers, agronomists, land agents, HGV drivers and vets to name just a few. Now when hundreds of these individuals come together in perhaps a slightly unlikely scenario of music, dance and comedy it further enhances that it really does not matter what your career or background is. East Cabaret in Perth (6th February), Northern Spotlights in Aberdeen (13th February) and West Talent Spot in Glasgow (26th March) allow members to use their imagination as they manage their own productions writing scripts, managing choreography and coordinating music.

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Individuals gain in confidence and life-long friendships are developed as members work together. Whilst these performances are about having fun, if you look into them in more depth it is clear to see why so many members go on to be Agricultural and Rural Leaders – that cliché “they look outside the box”. Take “Milk Aid”, a performance that was light-hearted about the price of milk but got it’s idea from the successful charity event “Live Aid”, and came with the slogan “Just Milk It” (recognise Nike!). By using such well known elements the audience were able to relate whilst offering a platform for young people to have their voice heard encouraging support for the dairy sector. We continued to be astonished by what our members achieve, even if they don’t realise that by taking part they are gaining skills and experiences that will benefit them for a lifetime. As we start the New Year they will have already spent months practicing for our 2016 talent events, and I can guarantee we will once again be amazed by what they bring to the stage. See you there! www.sayfc.org

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Another of our sections where we explore the very latest advances in farming related learning and technology. All news for this section should be emailed to our usual address.

Cogent announces exclusive UK distribution deal with genomic leader AI Total Cogent Breeding Ltd, the leading supplier of beef and dairy genetics to over 40 countries worldwide, has signed an exclusive UK distribution contract with AI Total, the growing, international genetics business. The agreement gives Cogent access to AI Total’s portfolio of breed-leading genomic sires, from across the globe for exclusive distribution in the UK market from 1st February 2016. The contract represents the latest move in Cogent’s

programme of growth both in the UK and internationally. Through this dynamic approach to partnership and growth worldwide, Cogent is ensuring that its business and customers are in the best shape to meet the challenges that face the industry. The addition of AI Total’s breed-leading sires to Cogent’s UK portfolio brings an exciting new product range which includes some of the world’s most elite young bulls such as DG Charley, Queenboy and Blooper and gives Cogent

customers an even wider choice coupled with greater access to high demand products. AI Total is sister company to Diamond Genetics, the established world class female programme which has access to and full control of some of the highest quality females around the globe. This programme ensures that AI Total has a continuous supply of breedleading sires, which in turn will give Cogent customers a world class flow of genetics into the future.

Capitalising on AI Total’s genomic sires backed by an exceptional female programme means that Cogent can bring new bulls to the UK market more quickly and change direction rapidly to satisfy changing customer demands. This will give Cogent customers more choice and greater value for money – breeding the animals most suited to their farm businesses, improving herd efficiency and delivering real bottom-line benefits.

John Innes Centre scientists use CRISPR technology to edit crop genes CRISPR gene-editing is allowing rapid scientific advances in many fields, including human health and now it has been shown that crop research can also benefit from this latest exciting technology. A team of scientists from the John Innes Centre and The Sainsbury Laboratory (UK), have shown that the very latest geneediting technology CRISPR, can be used to make targeted changes or edits to specific genes in two UK crops, a broccolilike brassica and barley, and that these edits are preserved in subsequent generations. Not only this but it is possible to segregate and remove the transgenes used during the editing process so that subsequent generations of plants are indistinguishable in their make up from plants which have been conventionally bred. Up to now there has been little information available on the efficiency of the CRISPR technology in crops and whether edits to genes in crops survive through to subsequent generations. There have also been few studies analysing the

likelihood of off-target edits occurring in plants. The aim of the research published in Genome Biology today, was to investigate whether use of the CRISPR technology would produce changes in targeted sections of DNA in both types of plant: monocots and dicots, whether subsequent generations would include the edit, and whether and how often off-target edits occurred as part of the process. In barley, the gene that was edited is thought to affect grain dormancy and this is an important agricultural trait. In brassica the edited gene affected the ease with which the seed pods shattered. In both cases plants were produced that had small changes, involving just 1 – 6 bases of the DNA sequence, in the target gene. These changes were enough to prevent the target gene from working. The editing process involved introducing some transgenes to target the specific gene and to make a cut in its DNA sequence. The small changes in the sequence occurred when the cut was repaired using

the plants own repair process. During the research, scientists identified plants from subsequent generations which contained the edit but did not contain the transgenes that caused the edit. As well as the edit to the target gene, in both barley and brassica, off-target edits were sometimes found in a very closely related gene too. This can be useful in crops where there are often several members of closely related genes in a gene family and it might be desirable to edit more than one of them. The work also provides information on how to use the CRISPR system to ensure only a target gene is edited if this is the required outcome.

Professor Wendy Harwood, one of the lead authors and scientist specialising in gene editing at the John Innes Centre said: “The beauty of the CRISPR technique is that it can create small changes in specific genes; sufficient to stop them working. Stopping particular genes from working is one way to develop disease resistant crops, for example with resistance to mildew or to produce crops without unwanted compounds including toxins. The final plants produced in this way have no additional DNA inserted so they are essentially the same as plants with naturally occurring changes to genes or plants that have been bred using conventional mutation breeding methods.”

Special readers offer on our own branded single malt whisky. SEE PAGE 71

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AGRI GADGETS New iPad Control PFC is at the forefront of a growing group of companies who now offer the option to control implements using an app on an iPad, which PFC will be launching at LAMMA. The iPad control app offers operators without ISOBus far more flexibility than conventional terminals. Not only are iPad’s widely available, they also have the benefit that they don’t require complex wiring or interfaces. For farmers or contractors, the ability to use a single iPad to control a number of implements avoids cluttering the cab with different control terminals. In addition, they can also be used to access web-based data, such as weather forecasts or email and be used to store customer data. The new app for baler Automatic Applicator systems can be run on any iPad running IOS 8.01 and above. It can be used with both the 600

series Automatic Application system for large square balers and the new 400T Automatic Application system for round and conventional balers. Currently 600 and 400 systems are controlled using either a dedicated stand-alone terminal or via an ISOBUS compatible terminal or built-in screen in the tractor. The iPad will give the operator increased usable functionality The option to use an iPad to set-up and monitor the application system will avoid the cost of specifying a standalone terminal and so better suited for those who do not have an ISOBUS compatible terminal or integrated baler. The iPad control system has the added benefit that it is simply connected to the ECU that controls the application system on the baler using a Bluetooth antenna, so avoids additional cabling in the tractor

cab. It also allows for software updates to be quickly and easily installed. The Bluetooth antenna is supplied as standard with the new Harvest Tec 400T Automatic

Application system for round and conventional balers, and available as an option for the modular 600 system for high capacity large square, round and conventional balers.

TeamViewer’s QuickSupport application now available on the Trimble TMX-2050 display for farm machinery TeamViewer®, has announced that the TeamViewer® QuickSupport Android™-based app is now available on the Trimble® TMX2050™ display. The app facilitates faster, easier remote technical support for farm machinery operators, which can result in less downtime. Using the new QuickSupport app, a machine operator can quickly connect with their Trimble reseller and receive real-time remote technical support without waiting for a technician to visit the farm. Using TeamViewer allows users to simply share what is happening on their screen, without needing to spend time describing the technical issue, and receive immediate troubleshooting assistance for machine guidance, steering or global navigation satellite system (GNSS) -related issues. 84

The QuickSupport app was developed by TeamViewer, a leading provider of desktop sharing and online collaboration software. It leverages the wireless field connectivity of the TMX-2050 display allowing users to receive remote support without significant delay to field production activities such as field leveling, planting, spraying and harvesting operations. Key features of the QuickSupport app include: Ability to share the TMX2050 display screen via secure connection with dedicated support personnel for faster problem resolution, which means less downtime for the machine operator An enhanced dashboard to show support teams important metrics for the TMX-2050 device, including relevant

firmware versions, usage information and network settings, which can enable technicians to better diagnose the issue so they can get the grower up and running faster Chat options that can enable easier communication in loud operating environments Ability to transfer files such as screen snaps and log files between the TMX-2050 user and support personnel to more clearly communicate what the machine operator is seeing/ experiencing. “The TeamViewer QuickSupport app enables screen sharing of mobile devices making trouble-shooting quick and easy. Thanks to our app, Trimble reseller support personnel can access a TMX2050 device remotely, enabling them to see exactly what the machine operator is seeing,”

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said Kornelius Brunner, vice president product management, TeamViewer. “This facilitates the troubleshooting experience for both the farmer and support staff. Enabling devices such as the TMX-2050 to be controlled remotely illustrates TeamViewer’s role as an enabler of the IoT (Internet of Things) trend”. “We know that even the simplest technical questions about machine settings and calibrations can cause delays and impact production for our customers,” said Pierre-Andre Rebeyrat, marketing director for Trimble’s Agriculture Division. “The QuickSupport app will be a very useful tool for our resellers to provide the fastest resolution to questions and troubleshoot issues that arise in the field.”

AGRI GADGETS Knitted Touchscreen Gloves from Mujjo

online savvy PLANNING IS KEY TO GOOD MARKETING by Allan Bewley & Fiona Sloan Pedigree Farmer Web Design

Stay warm, stylish and above all connected - raising the bar again with the introduction of the improved Single and Double Layered Touchscreen Gloves, featuring an updated design including a leather wrist strap with magnetic snap closure and upgraded material for increased durability and maximized grip. Introducing the Magnetic Snap Closure The Single and Double Layered Touchscreen Gloves feature an important upgrade, a magnetic snap closure, ensuring strong holding power while reducing tension on the strap during opening / closing.

The Double Layered Touchscreen Gloves, developed in response to requests from those in colder climates looking for touchscreen gloves with extra insulation, the extra layer, made out of wool, acts as an insulator and doubles as lining, providing enhanced insulation. Mujjo pioneered unrestricted touchscreen gloves, loved by tens of thousands of fans worldwide who have grown to depend on them. Mujjo has continued to improve and evolve all aspects of the gloves ever since. The upgraded Single and Double Layered Touchscreen Gloves are now available for pre-order at mujjo. com. Available in size S, M and L.

January is the time when dark nights allow us to get up to date with paperwork and it is also a good time to sit down and assess how your marketing plan has gone, if you had one. Have you maximised your potential to sell you animals or if you could have done more to encourage more buyers? Selling animals through a pedigree sale is always good but if for example, you are rearing pedigree stock in a commercial environment, producing stock with specific EBVs, selling semen or embryos or you simply don’t have time to dress sheep or cattle for sale, halter break, dip or trim or to spend a day or two getting to or from a sale, there are alternatives. With the right marketing in advance you can produce the top prices you are hoping selling direct from the farm. Marketing used to involve putting an advert in the local or national farming press but now you can promote your animals all year round and not just immediately before sale. A good website can give you a 24 hour a day advertising mechanism to promote and sell your stock and with an affordable set

up cost and a set annual fee equivalent to the cost of one advert, you can promote and budget at the same time. So…while you are catching up on all the paperwork, now is the time to consider this for next sale season. Things you need to consider:• A good domain name takes people right to your website e.g fionastexels. co.uk • Good content well written to allow the search engines to find you when a potential buyer searches for stock. • Good pictures which are well annotated helps the search engines as can’t see pictures only text. Pictures are great for buyers. • Links to BASCO or Breedplan, can automatically bring up your current EBV’s and Pedigrees. • Social media and responsive websites, can be accessed from your phone, tablet, laptop or PC Check these out for example. www. logiedurnosheep.co.uk or www. sandyknowesuffolks.com

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finance ABN launches a procurement game-changer for its feed customers

When monogastric international feed broker, ABN, considered upgrading its online customer facilities it surveyed a focus group to gauge what was needed to design a ‘game changer’ for commercial-scale livestock, pig and poultry farmers. The fruit of this project is a desktop and a mobile ready website, launched on 16 November 2015, that raise the bar in raw material purchasing. Procurement project lead at ABN, Emily Walker, outlined the feedback on which the design was based: “At the time, various price and raw material book information were amongst the most popular requests, which formed the core of the brief given to 4fx Design and Multimedia. “Approximately 85% of customers wanted a raw materials

book of current cover with an interactive, dynamic cost calculator. More than 50% also requested historic price charts and instant market price alerts linked to pre-set thresholds. Others included futures prices, daily and weekly market snapshot-style reports and weather information. “It culminated in a high-tech brief for a desktop and a mobile site, the first of their kind – and, judging by the feedback on the pilot site, our 80 beta users are thrilled.” “The desktop site powerfully combines all our analysts’ market insights and extensive sources of statistics in one place, while the mobile sites are a little lighter, they still carry sufficient information to enable wellinformed and more accurate decision-making.

“We’re enabling large enterprises and co-operatives or groups of operations to use precision economics and improve their bottom line. The return on investment is available for all users to see, because we mark peak and trough prices along with our purchase levels. “It saves a huge amount of time and mitigates the risk of getting purchasing decisions wrong or missing an opportunity. If anything drastic happens in the markets, clients with an interest are informed immediately via text or email. Nobody can afford to make ad hoc decisions on internationally sourced feed components,” explained Emily. “The two-way dynamic calculator, on the desktop site, is revolutionising purchasing confidence. It assesses all purchases from when the user starts to use it onwards. It accommodates all ‘what

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ifs’, so worst-case scenarios, with cash flow impacts, can be stress tested. Actions with ABN’s procurement team can be agreed in advance and linked to an automated alert. For example, buy 60% cover when futures prices reach a target level. “As most of our customers live in remote areas, we have full access to their accounts so we can act on their behalf if they experience a mobile signal, broadband or hardware outage,” concluded Emily. Julie King of 4fx explained the security of this new tool: “ABN’s system passed independent penetration tests with flying colours, giving it a grade three security accreditation, which means that all data is locked down and only authorised users are able to access it. We don’t take any chances when building systems containing commercially sensitive data.”

finance Experienced Agricultural Accountancy firm offers Topical Tips for Farmers “Do you run your farm through a limited company?” is just one of the questions posed by Patricia Arnold who works with farmers across Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria. Now into winter, with longer nights and shorter days offering the opportunity for farmers to dedicate a little more time to their business plans, Patricia highlights the topics farmers need to address to protect their farming heritage for the next generation. The Hexham-based accountancy firm Patricia J Arnold & Co Ltd, who this year celebrates 30 years in business, recommends that farmers ask some probing questions to ensure that they are obtaining the best possible tax benefits. For example if a farmhouse is worth in excess of £500,000, farmers will not have to pay tax under Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED), but they will need to claim exemption, and that exemption needs to be submitted by the beginning of the next tax year to prevent any penalties being applied. Chartered Accountant Patricia says: “Many farmers and farm businesses employ family members, which can possibly lead to a more relaxed approach to tax issues and paperwork. Now is the time for farmers to assess all options open to them to ascertain the best approach.” Patricia also suggests the farmer ensures their appointed accountant is familiar with farming acronyms such as CAAV, LFA, IAPA NVZ and CSF which are so frequently bandied about! Does your accountant know what all the acronyms mean? “It is essential that farmers receive the best possible advice and guidance, especially on planning points such as, ‘do you have disused farm buildings on your farm?’ If you do, it might be worth checking your postcode to

THEMONEYMAN Basic Payments Fiasco, Basic Mistakes By Andrew Turnbull

see if you are entitled to Business Renovation Allowance. This is a very valuable relief available if commercial premises have not been out of use for some time. If you qualify, the whole of the cost of renovation can be claimed against your other taxable income, which is particularly useful to know.” Equally farmers may not be aware, if they are trying a new feeding, grazing or planting regime, they could well find that R & D tax relief and tax credits apply. Most small businesses will get 150% of expenditure against taxable income, and if they were to actually make a loss, HMRC will give a tax refund. Patricia urges all farmers to review their tax situation to ensure that they are receiving all the benefits and entitlements open to them. It is certainly worth asking the questions as there could be money available, of which they are unaware. For any further advice or assistance you can call Patricia on 01434 606624.

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How often do we hear of Government IT systems that are not fit for purpose? The latest debacle surrounds the new “Basic PaymentsScheme” computer for the administration of agricultural grants in Scotland. It doesn’t work. Never mind, farmers now know when to expect their payments. Not precisely when, mind you, but approximately ... “most will get 70% of what they are due by end December”. Most, maybe, but some will not get anything till January, February or even March. All of this is announced by a nonchalant Cabinet Secretary who, for months, seemed impervious to the concerns expressed by the farming communities who rely on getting the BPS cheque in December. Indeed, many finance agreements for big capital items are drawn up with

annual repayments to coincide with the grant cheque in December. It seems some of the banks have “been encouraged” to cover the gap, but what should farmers do now? Do they contact their banks and get arrangements in place in case they are not in the 70%? Many will not be able to take the risk the cheque doesn’t arrive and will have to source funds elsewhere. Fortuitously, there are now alternative funders in the market place who will look to plug the gap and who can respond quickly to farmers’ needs for speed is now of the essence. But none of this should have been necessary - the Government has had months to anticipate the problems that would inevitably occur and should have had arrangements in place to fill the void long ‘ere now.

Andrew Turnbull CA is an Area Director, based in Perth, with First Independent Finance where he specialises in agricultural and industrial loans and finance. His contact details are: Mobile: 07720 886272, Phone 01738 624671 email aturnbull@fIf.co.uk 87

machinery Schäffer 6680T offers new levels of manoeuvrability and economy Schäffer is showing its new articulated telescopic wheel loader, the 6680 T, at LAMMA 2016. The complete redesign of this key part of the Schäffer portfolio delivers new levels of manoeuvrability and economy. With a working weight of 5.6 t to 6.3 t, the new 6680T is ideal for changing agricultural demands, such as bale stacking at higher levels and loading large mixer wagons. The drive has been completely updated with a 20% increase in thrust power by. As well as new axles, the High Traction Force drive system (HTF) also contains a high-performance variable displacement pump with a higher operating pressure and improved efficiency. The new loader is driven by a new-generation 55 kW (75 HP) Deutz turbo diesel engine, and complies with emission standard IIIB. It uses a diesel oxidation catalyst to eliminate the need for a diesel particle filter. Because all the components in the hydrostatic drive are perfectly matched to each other, the fuel consumption is converted into performance economically

and effectively. With driving speed up to 35 km/h the 6680T can move swiftly between tasks. The maintenance-free articulated steering makes the loader more manoeuvrable than any front loader tractor. The inner turning circle is only 1.75 m, and the rear swing axle provides excellent ground following and stability.

V- Mac 10 ton split offset silos The new V-Mac 10 ton split offset silo has all the advantages of a split silo but the outlets come out to the front of the silo so that loader buckets can be used.

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While the new V-Mac 4.5 ton, six foot diameter silo has a narrow body compared to their normal 7.5 foot silos. To achieve this diameter the body is made from rolled galvanised sheeting which is formed to promote good feed flow. This silo in particular is ideal for the smaller farmer working with limited yard space and is only available in 4.5 ton capacity – it is also priced very competitively. McAree were also promoting their innovative V-Mac Motorised Cone Skimmer. This came about because one of their customers, was feeding baby pigs a mineral rich, feed compound that was particularly viscous so it would not normally flow out of the silo. McAree designed and developed a solution which will agitate the feed out of the silo. This is a toothed bar that sits three feet in the centre of the cone. Driven by a motor and reduction gear box it slowly agitates the feed out of the silo. As the silo empties the arm falls to the side and rotates around the silo cone agitating and dislodging

machinery any feed that remains stuck to the walls. When the silo is refilled, the bar works its way into the centre of the cone freeing the feed as it

moves. McAree personnel were available on the stand to advise customers on all aspects of cost effective storage for animal feed and wood pellets.

HORSCH Avatar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new seed drill with single disc coulter The HORSCH Avatar SD is the new entry into the direct seeding with discs sector. So far there has only been tine seed drills available for this sector. The Avatar SD is launched in 4, 6 and 12 m working widths and due to its high tare weight the new single disc coulter is ideal for direct seeding. The coulter pressure of 200 kg guarantees a safe penetration into the soil. The strong coulter frame eliminates sideways movement, which ensures that the coulter keeps to the set sowing depth even on uneven

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soils. A press wheel then closes the seed furrow and consolidates the seed row. The Avatar SD in 4 m working width weighs 5.800 kg, in 6 m 9.300 kg and in 12 m working width 19.160 kg. Despite the high weight, which is necessary for a direct seed drill, the horsepower requirement of the Avatar SD is low as the SingleDisc coulters are arranged in two bars. HORSCH relies on the wellproven components of the Pronto DC seed drills for hopper and metering. The hopper size is 1,500 litres for the 4m wide model, 3,500

machinery litres for the 6m version and 12,000 litres for the 12m wide machine. The Avatar SD benefits from extensive experience gained in developing the Pronto drill applied to a modern direct seed drill. Depth control of the coulters is carried out via the well-proven rubber

suspension of the Pronto in a larger and stronger version which is required due to the high coulter pressure. The row spacing is 16.7 cm (6 m) and 20 cm (4 and 12 m version). Control and monitoring of the machine is carried out via a standard ISOBUS terminal.

CLAAS UK dealer excellence rewards New yield-boosting shredlage crop processor

CLAAS has led the way in corn cracking technology for forage harvesters since they developed the first corn cracking system for the JAGUAR back in the late 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, when the ability to crack maize kernels on the forager to improve digestibility and increase yields or weight gain was seen as a major step forward. At LAMMA, CLAAS will be displaying a completely new crop processor, the MCC SHREDLAGE, which provides another major step forward in crop processing technology and has been proven to increase milk 90

yield by up to 2.0 litres a cow, so boosting revenue, and to enable output from home-grown forage to be maximised without the need for bought-in concentrates. The new MCC SHREDLAGE crop processor is an innovative processing technology for conditioning long-cut maize using the CLAAS JAGUAR forage harvester. The SHREDLAGE process, for which CLAAS has acquired the license, was developed in the USA, where it has already been used successfully by dairy producers for a number of years.

The high level of commitment, service and support offered by four CLAAS UK dealers to their customers has been recognised in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Dealer Excellence Awards. The highest Platinum Dealer Excellence Award, which is new for this year, was awarded to Rickerby Ltd, who are based in Carlisle and have eight branches throughout the

north of England and Scotland. The Gold Dealer Excellence Awards were won by Hamblys Ltd, Gordons Ltd and ErwinAgricare Ltd. Hamblys are the main dealer for the south west of England where they have five branches, while the six Gordons branches cover the south west of Scotland and Erwin-Agricare have two branches in Northern Ireland.

Special readers offer on our own branded single malt whisky.

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SEE PAGE 71

machinery Krone’s impressive line up

Vaderstad uses LAMMA to display portfolio of machines

Vaderstad will use LAMMA 2016 to display a range of drills including its Tempo V precision drill with front mounted fertiliser hopper and upgraded Rapid A 400 and 600 drills, as well as cultivation equipment including Opus 400 and Carrier 625XL. Tempo V is a three-point linkage, vertical folding machine for up to 12 rows and is available in seven different models. The drill frame is designed so that 92

row units and fertiliser coulters can be moved to any position. Its new aluminium seed meter has an emptying hatch for easy cleaning when changing crops. A new front fertiliser hopper with capacity of 350kg/ha will also be available. A sloping front gives the driver improved visibility and the wide opening makes it easy to fill with a front loader. The improved Rapid drill includes new features such

as integrated fan, upgraded platform and steps for better access, new V30 hubs on the machine’s discs and intermediate packers and wing packers. The company’s smaller trailed Opus cultivator with 27cm tine spacing and 80cm clearance and boasting the MixIn shin will be on the stand. Information on its U-profile packer SoilRunner and alternative steel roller SteelRunner will also be available.

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LAMMA 2016 will be the venue for Krone to display its new BiG X 630 and BiG X 770 for the first time as well as launch its new ActiveMow R 280 rear mounted mower and the BiG Pack 870 HDP MultiBale. Krone operatives will be on hand to explain to growers and contractors the unique performance enhancing features on the BiG X models such as VariStream, PowerSplit, MaxFlow and VariQuick, and to see the impressive MTU 6R 1500 626hp engine and a MAN D2868 V8 729hp engine on the BiG X 630 and the 770 respectively. With operator comfort a key focus, climate control in the cab is now standard on the new BiG X and a deeper and wider cab makes more space, while a wide windscreen and high side windows optimises visibility especially of the spout. An ergonomic gearstick gives optimum operator comfort and easy to reach buttons and touch screen terminal helps reduce fatigue. Also on display will be a range of EasyCut Mowers all featuring SafeCut disc protection, SmartCut mower bed giving an enhanced cut in extreme conditions and CV steel tine conditioner. The models will include an EC R 320 CV rear mounted, EC F 320 CV front mounted and EC B 870 CV butterfly mowers launched last year to replace the popular EC 9140 CV mowers. From the range of larger tractor mounted tedders will be the KW 8.82 tedder, the largest being the KW 11.22 with a 10.9 meter working width.

machinery New high capacity transport tanker

At LAMMA, Hi-Spec Engineering will have two new additions to their range on display. The first is a high capacity specialist tanker for use within a high capacity liquid waste handling system. The second is a larger addition to the Hi-Spec Kompactor ‘compaction/ push-off’ trailer range introduced earlier this year. The key for contractors operating specialist high capacity trailed and self-propelled machines for spreading or injecting digestate, slurry and other liquid waste, is to ensure that downtime waiting or having to return to the farm to refill is kept to a minimum. Hi-Spec will have on display a new 4,500 gallon (20,450 litre) capacity service tanker for ferrying liquid waste to the spreading vehicle in the field, which is one of two that has been designed and built for an eastern counties customer. To spread the weight, the tanker is carried on triple, high road speed axles with

hydraulic braking and fitted with 600/50-22.5 tyres. The tank is manufactured from 6mm thick

steel and mounted on a full frame chassis to ensure that it is completely supported.

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For filling, the tanker is fitted with a high capacity 14,000 litres per minute pump, while at the rear of the tanker there is an 8 inch pipe and cone to accommodate the filling boom from the spreading vehicle. Also on display at LAMMA will be the latest high capacity addition to the Kompactor ‘compaction/push-off’ trailer range introduced earlier this year. This latest addition is 24ft long and has a total capacity of 40 cubic metres. It is carried on a triple axle fitted with air-brakes and front and rear passive steering axles as standard. As with other models in the Kompactor range, it features a hydraulically operated headboard. For compacting, with the heavy duty tailgate shut, the headboard can be used to compact material such as grass or maize silage, so increasing the load carried by up to 80 percent compared to a conventional trailer. However, due to its size, this high capacity addition to the Kompactor range is also ideally suited for transporting bulky materials, such as woodchip or grain.

machinery Combine updates from Case IH The new Case IH Axial-Flow 140 Series combines have undergone a number of changes for 2016 which provide noticeable increases of performance, comfort and reliability. The line-up includes the 5140 Cross Flow with an FPT 6.7 litre Stage IV engine with maximum power of 312hp, the 6140 Cross Flow model with an 8.7 litre FPT Stage IV engine with 400hp maximum power, and the 7140 Cross Flow model, also with an 8.7 litre Stage IV engine and a maximum power output of 449hp. August von Eckardstein, Product Marketing Manager Harvesting Technology at Case IH Europe, said: “Our engineers have invested considerable efforts to further improving the combines’ performance, and they have done so very effectively.”

A new six auger bed replaces the former five auger bed and conveys the crop efficiently and with higher capacity to the sieves. A new automatic sidehill compensation system also ensures optimum grain flow. Von Eckardstein said: “This new Cross Flow Cleaning System feature is activated automatically when needed – and de-activated when not required. It is a very efficient means to further enhance the capacity of our 140 series combines. “No operator input is necessary for operating this system, which compensates up to 12 degrees of lateral slope. In addition to the much higher capacity of the clean grain auger and the large grain tank, with 10,570 litres on the 6140 and 7140 models, the Cross Flow Cleaning System feature

enables operators to fully use these combines’ abilities and make the most of their days in the fields; this is particularly true in demanding hillside conditions. When seen in the

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light of grain losses, which amount to almost zero in the Case IH Axial-Flow combines, owners get perfect results and the best possible return on their investment.”

machinery Front-mounted disc mower conditioner from Kuhn KUHN Farm Machineryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new front-mounted disc mower conditioner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the FC 3125 F â&#x20AC;&#x201C; will be on display at the 2016 LAMMA show. With a 3.10 m working width, this new machine, which features improved terrain following capabilities and variable conditioning speeds, is ideal for use as part of a high power, high output, triple-gang setup. The new FC 3125 F uses a re-designed twin-linkage headstock attachment and shark fin inspired-design which houses an innovative suspension setup. The new design and linkage system improves operator visibility and enables the mower to oscillate at angles of up to 30 degrees. This improved ground contouring capability prevents sward contamination and preserves the quality of the remaining grass sward.

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machinery The mower’s suspension is controlled by KUHN’s LIFTCONTROL hydro-pneumatic ground pressure system which minimises crop damage and reduces wear and tear of the cutter bar by allowing the mowing unit to move vertically by up to 0.70 m. Two large pivoting connecting rods provide additional structural strength and stability. The conditioning unit is fitted with KUHN’s DIGIDRY pivoting steel fingers which adapt easily to different types of forage. Conditioning intensity is controlled by a single gear lever which selects one of two speeds: 1000 min-1 for most forage grasses or 755 min-1 for more delicate crops. The FC 3125 F uses KUHN’s reliable OPTIDISC cutter bar and PROTECTADRIVE safety system and is fitted with FASTFIT knives.

Tetraliner Dolly from Joskin

In 2013, JOSKIN introduced its slurry tanker dedicated to transport: the Tetraliner. Nowadays, the slurry transport chain becomes increasingly important, both for contractors and operators of biogas plants, or farmers conveying the liquids to the spreading area. Since the distances between the storage location and the area to be spread on are indeed becoming even longer, an optimal management of these works is required to reach the best performances. It is in this sense that the JOSKIN group, specialized in the transportation of livestock manure, has added a Dolly equipment to its Tetraliner range. In order to meet the demand of an even higher productivity, this system has a main advantage: its permissible total load of 34t, i.e. max. 10t on each axle and a max. weight of 4t on the eyelet, depending on the the tractor type. The JOSKIN Dolly system is made of an axle on turntable (Ø 974mm), directly fitted on the tank for an easy but efficient manufacturing. The weight transfer from the Dolly to the tractor, combined with the standard air braking system, allows to reach a maximal safety during the journeys, even at high speed or 98

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machinery on hilly grounds. The presence of baffles (EN707 standard) further increases the safety. With 4 models based on the structure and equipment of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;classicalâ&#x20AC;? Tetraliner, the Tetraliner Dolly range is standard fitted with fixed axles (rear free steering axles for model of 26,000l) of the high speed type, which allow, for instance in Germany, to register the vehicle with a speed of 60km/h. In order to ensure an optimal driving comfort both on the road and field, spring suspensions with parabolic leaves are standard mounted on each model. The tankers can be fitted with road tyres (400R22.5) or tyres with a diameter up to 1,250mm and a width up to 570mm. A vacuum pump is factory fitted on each tanker. Since it is located in the V-shaped drawbar, it is properly protected while turning or driving on an uneven ground, but it is still available for an easy maintenance. It is

then possible to fill and empty in a multifunctional way. Vacuum pumps with a higher capacity, as well as various filling tools (turbofiller, left/right filling arm, rear funnel, etc.) and a 8â&#x20AC;? unloading

arm, are also available in the wide JOSKIN range in order to further increase the multifunctionality and autonomy of the vehicle. With this design that combines transport capacity,

safety and sturdiness, JOSKIN proposes another solution to contractors and farmers who have to face long journeys to convey slurry to the spreading area.

Improve feed efficiency with new Lely T4C Vector reports Lely has improved the management system of its Lely Vector automatic feeding system. The latest version of the Lely T4C management system provides reports that offer more insights into feed costs in relation to milk and meat production. By making the relevant information easily accessible and understandable, dairy and beef cattle farmers are more in control of their feed management process. Real-time information helps the farmer to make fact-based decisions in order to improve feed efficiency.

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machinery Minimum feed losses and rest feed have a positive impact on the margin of feed, resulting in a higher profit for the farmer. Key performance indicators such as average feed intake per day and per animal are helping dairy

as well as beef cattle farmers. The new reports give an overview of the fed ration and the costs for a specific animal group in a specific time frame. Dairy farmers can, for example, easily check their feed costs per 100 kg milk and thus their

feed efficiency. Beef cattle farmers can check the average intake per group and monitor the total ration that is fed during an entire feed round. The Lely T4C management system connects the Lely Vector

automatic feeding system with the Lely Astronaut milking robots for real-time management information. Dairy farmers with another milking system can create the same reports by easily entering their milk production figures.

FORAGER X10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just got Better

The Forager X10 is now a well proven, life-changing piece of equipment. Designed and manufactured by Blaney Agri in Co Antrim, UK the Forager X10 has become the most prized tool they own, being easy on the back and the pocket, saving hours of daily back breaking labour and reducing bale waste by around 20%. Blaney Agri are pleased to launch the new model Forager X10. Thanks to all design and manufacture being carried out in-house, Blaney have been able to react quickly to give added assurance to customers who are concerned about this yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; silage bales being heavier given the wet harvest season. The new Forager X10 has been re-engineered and launched this autumn with a host of enhanced features, outperforming any other type of equipment on all bale types. For many farms, a great aspect of the Forager X10 is that it is a one man and one tractor operation. Feeding a silage bale is as easy as 1-2-3, with the Forager X10 able to lift, load and feed - all from the comfort of your cab. It offers a fast and effective solution for feeding out round bales to reduce the need for manual forking, to get the job done quickly and easily for better thriving animals, less wastage and improved profits. Blaney have enhanced the new model Forager X10 bale carriers making them 25% stronger. Drive components are capable of withstanding forces well in excess of 50000 Newtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and more powerful hydraulics give generous capabilities to work with the heaviest bales year after year. Innovative new feed out spikes, new bale chamber and unique side rollers are designed to deal with the most difficult bales.

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machinery Kverneland i-Plough launched at Lamma

Kverneland is to launch an all-new plough series at Lamma 2016 called the Kv 2500-series, which includes an isobus controlled model at the top of the range, called the i-Plough. With isobus technology at its core, the Kv 2500 i-Plough enables in-cab adjustment of plough settings from an isobus screen. Operators can set left and right-hand turnover angle; straighten furrows to suit an A-B line; set the plough for marking out; and swap from transport to work modes - all at the touch of a button.

The Kv 2500-series features a clever folding headstock design and a crossshaft that can be unlocked for steering, and these innovations allow the plough to behave like a trailer on the road. Available in five and sixfurrow formats for tractors up to 280hp, the Kv 2500-series uses an all-new Aero-profile hollow leg design that contributes to increased underbeam clearance; new skimmers; and a range of swivelling depth wheel designs, including a rubber tracked option that sits below the plough frame.

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machinery New mobile nurse tanks from Storth Slurry handling specialist Storth has launched a range of mobile nurse tanks to aid the umbilical spreading of slurry and/or digestate in fields which are far from the farm or biogas plant. The new tanks are designed for efficiency of flow and personal safety. The use of mobile nurse tanks to aid umbilical spreading operations has resurged in popularity. The tanks are sited in, or near, to the fields to be spread. Then the slurry/ digestate is transported by road in lorries and tankers, and discharged into them. The tanks act as a buffer for the umbilical system, and can be kept topped up by the road tankers, allowing uninterrupted spreading to be carried out. Unique to Storth’s nurse tanks are the hydraulic-lifting stub axles on either side of the

tank. These allow the inside compartment to be of one single floor level from front to back. This negates the requirement for internal pipe work – as required with standard axles to link the front and back areas, which can become a bottleneck risk especially with the thick sticky nature of digestate. Storth’s nurse tanks have also been designed with a roof to make them fully enclosed, and prevent unwanted or accidental access which could lead to personal injury. Storth nurse tanks come as standard in two capacities: 65m3 and 100m3. However tanks can also be custom-made to meet specific criteria, e.g. colour, siting of ports and compressor. Storth’s 65m3 mobile nurse tank retails at £30,000 + VAT and the 100m3 capacity tank at £36,750 +VAT. For more information, farmers, contractors and AD plant managers can contact Storth on 01524 781900.

The Air Compressor and Pressure Washer Specialists

Manufacturers and suppliers, W Bateman & Co has an enviable reputation for manufacturing and supplying both domestic and industrial pressure washers and air compressors. Nationwide DELIVERY on all orders

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01772 862948 email: sales@bateman-sellarc.co.uk www.bateman-sellarc.co.uk

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machinery Single-Pass HE-VA Disc Roller and Variocast for cover crop establishment A new combination of the HE-VA Disc Roller and Variocast 16 will be launched at LAMMA 2016, providing a versatile solution to help growers maximise the benefits of cover crops. The Disc Roller’s two rows of discs and V profile press are designed to shallow cultivate and consolidate at speed providing the perfect shallow stale seedbed for blackgrass control. The market leading Variocast 16 small seed broadcaster has now been integrated into the design allowing farmers to optimise the timing of cover crop establishment. This HE-VA combination can be used behind the combine

to create a fine tilth for good seed-to-soil contact which, whilst consolidating to lock in moisture, encourages weed and cover crop germination. At the same time this versatile machine chops, incorporates and spreads crop residues to speed up breakdown and increase valuable organic matter levels in the soil. 3m to 8m working widths are available in trailed and mounted formats with various specifications of Variocast for seed sizes ranging from mustard to peas. A 6.3m HE-VA Disc Roller equipped with the Variocast 16 will be on display at LAMMA. It has two rows of discs, a soil mat and a 600mm V-profile press

roller. The mat is positioned behind the discs but in front of the seed outlets and roller which ensures the soil from the

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discs doesn’t disrupt the seed’s passage to the soil surface. This has a big impact in generating uniform seedling emergence.

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machinery Bauer acquires SGT – manufacturer of high capacity slurry application systems

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A specialist manufacturer of high capacity slurry application systems has become part of the Bauer Group to expand an already comprehensive portfolio of waste handling and spreading solutions. SGT (Silage & GulleTechnik) has made a name for itself primarily with the innovative slurry loading system and large capacity tank for the Claas Xerion, converting this powerful tractor into a self-propelled slurry spreader. With the integration of SGT into the Eckart slurry tanker production site in Germany, Bauer will meet rising demand for high performance selfpropelled applicators to spread slurry from cattle and pigs, and digestate from anaerobic digester plants. Otto Roiss, Managing Partner of the Bauer Group said: “Our plan is to make use of the modern in-house plastics production capabilities at Eckart to manufacture the SGT tanks and for Bauer to take on responsibility for product

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development, production and after-sales service. “The previous owner of SGT, Christiaan Seegers, as well as key employees, will remain involved, with Mr Seegers focusing more intensively on sales activities and innovations. With the industrial manufacturing resources and high quality standards of the Bauer Group, we expect extensive synergies for the products of SGT.” This latest acquisition by Bauer Group broadens an already comprehensive product line for slurry handling and application that includes everything from the famous original hose coupling system to slurry mixers, pumps and separators, and the largest trailed tankers with unique polyester tank designs for reduced weight but no loss of durability. This material is being used for a new tank to fit the Claas Xerion 4000 Saddle Trac; it weighs 1800kg less than the steel tank made for the previous forward control Xerion yet at 16cu m it holds an extra 2cu m of slurry. A new direct-mounting arrangement for the pump unit is available as an alternative to mounting it on the three-point linkage, a big advantage being that it weighs 900kg less. The new assembly also improves the operator’s forward visibility and can handle faster flow rates as there are only four bends in the pipework for slurry to negotiate instead of eight. The assembly is available with a 10in or 12in remote docking system for filling, a 10in stone-trap box and a 9000-litre or 12,000-litres/ min pump – the larger capacity option is offered for 24m to 36m slurry dribble booms.

machinery New JCB Loadall Tier 4 final telescopic handlers

farmwatch

QUAD BIKE / ATV THEFT

Outward changes to new JCB Loadall telescopic handlers making their UK debut at the LAMMA show, Peterborough in January 2016 are so subtle that even the most ardent machinery enthusiast will be hard-pressed to spot them. JCB engineers have created a compact ‘one can’ solution to meet Stage IV / Tier 4 Final emissions rules. The engine’s efficient combustion means there is no need for an expensive diesel particulates filter (DPF) and its additional service requirements, so there is just an SCR system to reduce NoX.

This solution is compact enough to be combined with the exhaust silencer in a single assembly housed beneath the engine hood where it is protected from the weather, mud and dust. The engine hood itself is unchanged – so visibility to the side and rear three-quarters is just as good as before. Because the lack of an external exhaust silencer is about the only visible clue to the underbonnet changes, JCB has added a ‘Loadall’ decal to the door and ‘Agri’ decals in bright red to identify the latest versions of the World’s Number One telescopic handler!

New trailed no-till and min-till drills from Opico

Police Scotland appreciates the impact of this crime and along with other partner agencies have put a number of measures in place to reduce crimes of this type. One of these measures has been to promote the use of CESAR security marking. CESAR is a Police and Home Office approved method of security marking equipment within the Plant & Agricultural Industry. It is easily identified by the follow logo being displayed on protected equipment. Almost all new tractors and many other farm machines are supplied with a standard factory fit which has resulted in significant reductions of theft. Not all manufacturers fit CESAR as standard to Quadbike’s or ATV’s but they can be fitted retrospectively to machines already sold. Police Scotland will be instrumental in implementing separate training courses in conjunction with CESAR for Quadbike / ATV Dealerships and for Police Officers in the near future. The following are the key benefits of CESAR: • Is widely supported in construction and agriculture and adopted by many leading manufacturers, trade organisations, and the police. • Is the only official and Police approved security and

registration scheme for plant and equipment. • Provides lifetime protection, for a machine, with no subscriptions or annual fees. • Powered by Datatag is a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable aid in recovery. • Is proven to work. CESAR registered machines are 6 times more likely to be recovered if stolen and 4 times less likely to be stolen in the first place. • Does not charge machine owners and insurance companies for recovery, unlike some other schemes. • Registration qualifies a machine for 1 ‘Thatcham star’. • Registration qualifies a machine for insurance premium discounts and/ or lower insurance excesses from all the leading insurance companies. • Uses Datatag hi tech security markings to give each machine a unique ‘fingerprint’ which is impossible to remove. • Helps the police by providing a means of positively identifying a machine and by providing information through the Police National Computer 24/7. • Helps reduce costs for machine owners and operators, insurance providers, and finance and leasing companies. Further information regarding this product can be obtained from the CESAR web site www.cesarscheme.org

FARM WATCH column sponsored by LAMMA visitors will be able to see for the first time, two new trailed drills from French manufacturer Sky Agriculture

- the no-till EasyDrill and the mintill MaxiDrill, which have just been introduced into the UK by OPICO [stand no: B10a].

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SCOTTISHCOMMUNICATIONSGROUP integrated security solutions

BEAUTIFUL TRACTORS Specially for all our tractor enthusiasts MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE, MODEL GT USA, 1941

MASSEY-HARRIS, GENERAL PURPOSE (4WD) USA, c. 1932

Three great American tractor companies,Minneapolis Steel & Machinery, Minneapolis Threshing Machine, and Moline Plow, joined in 1929 to form Minneapolis-Moline (M-M), which became renowned for its high-quality modern designs, the ultimate being a tractor built with a full cab, radio and heater. The Model GT didn’t have all of these luxuries but M-M advertised it as ‘The Mighty Master of All Jobs’.

The Canadian company Massey-Harris (M-H) built its first tractors in Toronto in 1918. In 1928 M-H purchased the J.I. Case Plow Works of Racine, Wisconsin, which produced the Wallis tractors, and M-H soon centred its tractor production at the old Wallis works. The four-wheeldrive (4WD) General Purpose was the !first M-H tractor created by its own designers.

Features The GT was the largest model in M-M’s pre-war catalogue and sported a powerful four-cylinder motor and four-speed transmission. M-M’s distinctive yellow body colour was named Prairie Gold, and the wheels were painted dark red. The GT was one of a range that M-M described as Visionlined, owing to its clean lines and attractive styling.

Features Equipped with a Hercules four-cylinder, ‘flat head’ engine and three-speed transmission, the General Purpose (GP) was one of the first successful 4WD tractors and was offered in orchard and industrial versions. Styling consisted only of a piece of sheet metal over the motor. Those sold in Britain were dark green with red wheels; in North America they were grey with red wheels.

Uses A standard-tread model like the GT was often referred to as a ‘wheatland’ tractor. Built for heavy drawbar work, the GT was able to pull four to five ploughs. With horsepower to spare, it was also a good threshing tractor.

Uses The GP was built as a cultivating tractor with adjustable wheel widths, 76-cm (30-in) ground clearance and a 1.8-m (6-ft) turning radius. Some had extensions on the controls so that the operator could drive the tractor whilst sitting on a hay wagon, seed drill or other implement, as he would with a team of horses.

Related Models The GT was replaced by the GTA. Later the GB and GVI models used six-cylinder diesel motors and pioneered the use of propane (LPG) fuel. Power & Size 55 hp; weight: 3084kg (6800lb) length: 345cm (136in) width: 183cm (72in) height: 193cm (76in) Manufacturing & Distribution Some 1200 of this model were built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from 1938 to 1941, with strong sales in North America. Before the US entry into the Second World War, many were sent to Britain under the LendLease programme. The GT also enjoyed good sales in Australia and New Zealand.

Related Models An improved GP with overhead valve motor and optional pneumatic tyres was built in 1936 as a last-ditch effort to generate sales. Power & Size 15–22 hp; weight: 1796kg (3900lb) length: 310cm (122in) width: 122–193cm (48–76in, adjustable) height: 140cm (55in) Manufacturing & Distribution Around 3000 were built at Racine, Wisconsin, from 1930 to 1936, and were sold in the UK, France, Canada and the USA. It was particularly popular in Canada for market garden work. The GP heralded the light 4WD tractors that are commonplace today.

Images from “Beautiful Tractors – Iconic Models” by Rick Mannen A beautifully illustrated record of 40 of the world’s most magnificent, classic agricultural machines, dating from 1917 to 1976. Photography by Clive Streeter. Published by Frances Lincoln Limited. Available in paperback: £12.99. For further information : www.franceslincoln.com 108

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country woman Donna Dewar Donna Dewar was born in London and during the school holidays she used to visit her grandparents in North Berwick. One summer, when she was 9 years old, her parents left Donna and her brother with their grandparents while they ‘popped out and bought a house.’ After the summer holidays, the family put their house in London up for sale and moved up to Scotland on 1st January. by Linda Mellor

“My first memory of moving to Scotland was the feeling of being set free. In London we could not play on the streets as the crime rates were high and our parents always worried about us being outside. When we moved into Cousland, Midlothian, everyone knew one another; we could go to friends’ houses and play for hours. If our parents wanted us in they would stand at the back door and shout on us. It’s hard to believe but in London we didn’t even own a pair of wellies!” Donna has always loved animals, she used to have West Highland Terriers, and she credits walking them for her love of the outdoors. When her daughter, Kayleigh, was

growing up she competed with her horse so Donna would be outdoors helping with the horse care, driving to events and back and forward to the training sessions. She said, “If it wasn’t a competition, it would be training, we were always on the go and out somewhere with the horse. In the summer we would train at home and in the winter months we used the floodlit school at Gleneagles.” Kayleigh’s commitment paid off as she qualified to represent Scotland in the Under 21 dressage team. Determined to raise money for a big Home International event Donna did a sponsored parachute jump and raised over £700 by jumping out

of an aeroplane at 3,500ft. She said, “I was absolutely terrified, it was the scariest thing I have ever done and the longest 4 and a half minutes of my life!” After Kayleigh left home, Donna and her husband separated and divorced then six years ago Donna met her partner, Colin, and moved up to Aberdeenshire. Colin, an experienced shot, introduced her to shooting and gundogs. She joined Colin on his shoot days; she liked to go along for the walk and enjoyed watching but had no interest in shooting. Colin suggested as she loved dogs why not get a gundog to work on shoot days. Donna’s first thoughts were “what if I can’t do it! I was a

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complete novice and did not know anything about working and training a gundog.” They talked about it and decided the best way forward was to get a trained gundog; the dog would know what it was doing and Donna could learn from it. At this point she had only been out on a couple of shoots but she and Colin asked around and met with Gundog trainer, Peter Holmes. Peter had a 3 year old Chocolate Cocker Spaniel called Coco, she had been trained, had competed in Field Trials and would be a great gundog. They met up and Peter put Coco through her paces to show what she could do and one week later Donna picked her up. The bond between the 109

country woman two of them was instant and very strong, and after a matter of days, Coco was very attached to Donna, with her eyes fixed on her all the time. “She was my perfect dog; she was constantly watching me and would respond instantly to my whistle.” Over the months Donna and Coco had a couple of lessons with a gundog trainer and Colin also helped. In the summer Donna entered Coco into the scurry at Scone and she did very well. “That was my first outing with her and I was a nervous wreck but she was brilliant.” Before the shooting season started Colin and Donna practised hunting in woods with Coco, using starter pistols and dummies to simulate a game day. They practised everything together which helped Donna

understand the dynamics of a shoot day, staying ahead or behind the shooting line and keeping safe. When the pheasant season started on 1st October, Donna took Coco to their first shoot. Donna was a nervous wreck, she did not want to let Coco down and was worried in case she did something wrong. It all went to plan though, “if she was confused, she would stop.” In the early days on the shoots, Donna would feel squeamish about picking up dead and injured game but her confidence started to grow as she worked next to Colin and he taught her how to despatch a bird without it suffering. Colin was shooting the Fasque Estate at Fettercairn when Headkeeper Mark Ancliff

said he was always looking for good beaters so Donna joined the team and is currently enjoying her 3rd season of beating. High up on the hill you can never tell what the weather is going to do as it is very changeable. Donna said, “When I go to Fasque as a beater and always have another complete outfit in my car. I feel the cold so Colin made a very smart move and kitted me out with all the right gear from top to toe to make sure I stay warm and dry.” Coco worked throughout two seasons then she had her first litter of 4 pups then much to Donna’s surprise, more than 6 hours later she gave birth to a golden cocker. “I had always wanted a golden cocker so that was it. Decision made, she’s mine and I called her Tweed.”

At this point Coco was 5 years old and Donna knew she would not go on forever so Tweed was going to be a great dog to follow on with. Again, the bond with Donna was instant and the training commenced. “The dogs I have are quite soft but that suits me as I am not overly dominant person. You pick up so much on the way when you train dogs. I did not want to make the same mistakes and someone once said, the more dogs you train the better trainer you become.” Donna picked another pup from Coco’s second little, another bitch called Rhum and Kayleigh has one of the dog pups. Rhum, almost 2, is coming along well and Donna plans on working her and 3 year old Tweed together.

“All together now” for Kate Picken There are few people whom we come across in our lifetime, who can inspire us to be the best we can be at something. One of these special teachers is Kate Picken, from Milton Farm near Kirkcudbright, who teaches music in primary schools in the Kirkcudbright and is currently The Youth Musical Development Officer for the region. Growing up on the family farm, Kate and her two sisters, were always encouraged by their parents to be involved in music and she began playing the piano at the age of nine. However, her ability to teach others is the thing which sets her apart from the rest. Throughout her school years she was involved in various musical groups and being a member of Stewartry YFC , also allowed Kate to join with a few other club members to form “A Taste of Country”. The group has now been going for 30 years and has travelled all over the area performing and raising money for various charities. Eighteen months ago, Kate was approached by the organisers of the 75th Anniversary of The Scottish Young Farmers 110

movement to ask if she could start a ‘Farmers Wives Choir’. Following the popularity of The Military Wives Choir, SAYFC invited people to be part of this choir and anyone interested in joining should call into their local markets to sign up. “When it was suggested that we set up choir, some of the farmers asked why they couldn’t be included?” Kate smiles, ”so we ended up with the Farmers’ Choir and Farmers Wives Choir! We decided to meet at Lanark, which was most central and 80 people turned up to the first rehearsal. I couldn’t believe the response!” The choir grew quickly and by the time the concert came around had 108 women and 45 men! Despite being a “one off” for the 75th Anniversary, the choir www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

country woman was such a great success that the members of the choir were keen to continue and the combined choirs now have around 150 members ranging in age from early twenties to early eighties and come from as far apart as Campbelltown, Berwick, Stranraer, Dumfries, and Nairn. Appearances at The Highland Show and The Armadillo as the closing act for the YF Talent Spot, has encouraged Kate and her choir to organise their first

stand-alone concert in Airdrie Town Hall on Saturday 28th February. For two hours every Sunday, all of these people travel to Lanark to be inspired by Kate Picken and allow her to show them how to be the best they can be as a choir member. It’s amazing what everyone has achieved in such a short space of time and as the choir looks forward to it’s first major charity concert it looks like it won’t be the last.

Planning a wedding?

With the Byre at Inchyra, and similar rural locations beginning to pop uparound 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 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.” All Dresses are from Apple Blossom Time Bridal Studio in Perth – visit their website at www.appleblossomtime.com Location - The Byre at Inchyra. Photographer, Mark Weir and Jamie Housden. Hair Stylist: Gaye Taylor from Hairzone. Make Up Artist: Susie Bloice of Complexions. Models: Rosie McKenzie and Lauren Inglis from Superior Model Management. Stylist and dresses: Jolene

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Southern Belle THOSE WERE THE DAYS….. There’s nothing like a 50th birthday party to bring on a nostalgia trip. Our joyful look back at having threepenny bits in our Christmas dumpling, to the ability to buy a whole bag of penny caramels and black jacks for a shilling, slowly deteriorated into a rant as we bemoaned the loss of newspaper wrapped fish and chips. As the third generation of a family who live by “the three second rule” if any food hits the floor, the fact that it had been decided by some pen pushing twit in an office that we might catch something from eating chips from a newspaper had me incensed! How many people had died from eating chips out of a newspaper?? Not as many I assumed as had died from eating burgers out of a polystyrene box! Our constant obsession with health and safety and even worse “risk assessment” annoys me just about as much a middle lane drivers! Why is it necessary to assess

everything as a potential risk before we climb, build or eat it? Isn’t risk assessment something you do automatically as you blunder through life, falling of you bike or ladder and hopefully learning from the consequences or not in my case. Do we really need to be told that the hot water is HOT! In an effort to pacify my daughter’s obsession with health and safety, gained from school and not her mother, I agreed to don my cycle helmet while on the roof cleaning the moss off the slates (it’s a living by the sea thing). Up the ladder I went with my waterproof leggings, anorak, hose, kitchen brush and bike helmet, feeling quite proud of doing the right thing until I saw the video of what looked like a demented care in the community candidate frantically sweeping my roof, which of course was kindly shared with her friends. She should have risk assessed that she was too old to call ChildLine when I got down!

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Choosing an independent education for your child by Alison Herbert

Scottish Council of Independent Schools As a parent, it’s natural to want to give your child every opportunity to discover what they’re good at and what they love doing in a safe and supportive environment. Which is why, in Scotland we are very fortunate. We have a wide range of first-rate independent schools to choose from. So whether you have a tech-loving future internet entrepreneur on your hands, or a child who craves hours of fresh air and exercise every day, Scotland’s independent schools can offer you the freedom to find the right educational environment for your son or daughter. You have a choice of: Single sex or co-educational schools. Large and small schools in both urban and countryside settings. Day schools, boarding schools and those who offer both. Schools equipped to deal with Complex Additional Support Needs The independent school advantage When children are young we often wonder what the future will hold. Will they be musical? Will they be academic? Who will they choose as their friends? Scotland’s independent schools are set up to give your child every opportunity both inside and outside the classroom. The schools’ reputation for academic excellence is an obvious 112

attraction for many parents. Smaller pupil/teacher ratios and significant investment in modern, stimulating teaching facilities attracts the highest calibre of teaching staff capable of igniting a passion for the subjects they teach. Born digital natives, most children and young people today want to feel stretched, challenged and inspired by new technology. While the imposing architecture of some school buildings might give off an air of Hogwarts, once inside it’s definitely more ipad Air and the magic of cloud computing.

depth of education that is as rich as the landscape and culture it’s set in. Scotland is also one of the safest and friendliest places in the world to study, with 30% of current students coming from Germany, Hong Kong, China, Russia and Spain. The schools have an enviable record for success. Combine this with an adventurepacked landscape to both explore and study, and it’s easy to see why Scotland remains such a popular choice. For more information about boarding in Scotland visit www. scotlandsboardingschools.org.uk.

Developing skills and confidence Each school has its own distinct ethos and values, but each one will encourage your child to be the very best they can be. Independent schools offer an exciting array of new experiences your child can wrap around their academic day to help them grow both physically and socially. You’ll find every conceivable type of sport and activity on offer, plus all sorts of creative opportunities to fire your child’s imagination and develop their confidence, such as orchestras, drama clubs and countless societies.

Fee assistance Schools are sensitive to the sacrifices many parents make in order to afford school fees. The year before you plan to enrol, please ask the school of your choice about the financial assistance options they have available. You’ll find some families use direct debit to spread the cost throughout the year; others have grandparents or other family members contributing directly. All schools offer some level of fee assistance too which is usually awarded on the basis of financial need. In 2014-15, over 600 children received a free place, and one in five children received financial help with their fees. Financial assistance is generally awarded from P7 through Senior School.

Boarding Scotland’s boarding schools offer something unique; a breadth and

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To receive assistance with fees your child simply has to meet the normal entry requirements. They don’t have to be of an academic standard required to win a scholarship. Safe environment Providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and flourish is central to the ethos of all independent schools. As with state schools, every school has a trained Child Protection Coordinator, strict rules governing protection policies and procedures and is subject to the same exacting standards of safeguarding set by Education Scotland and the Care Commission. See for yourself All schools welcome visits from prospective families throughout the year. Look out for details of Open Days on the school’s website, or alternatively ask for an appointment where staff will be delighted to show you round, give you a feel for life at the school and answer any questions you may have. For more information, advice and guidance on choosing an independent school in Scotland visit the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) website at scis.org.uk.

INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Kilgraston School Independent Boarding and Day School for girls aged 3 – 18 with a co-educational nursery for boys and girls aged 3 – 5. All girls’ school Kilgraston, in Perthshire, is The Sunday Times top performing independent school in Scotland for Intermediate 2, Highers and Advanced Highers 2015. In 2014, the school was The Sunday Times Scottish independent school of the year; the judges commended the day and boarding school for its ‘excellent’ exam results, as well as its ‘outstanding’ modern facilities’ and ‘supportive and caring learning environment’. They praised the range of opportunities for girls to develop leadership skills, and to ‘succeed in all areas of life’ We are a school with traditional values but with a modern and forward looking perspective on

education. Education is not just about exam success; developing interest and talents, nurturing an understanding of divergent cultures, and emphasising our personal responsibility as global citizens are vital. As such, a Kilgraston girl benefits from

a wealth of opportunities to extend and enrich her educational experience. We offer an enormous breadth of extra-curricular activities, and enjoy modern, state of the art facilities including a Science Centre, Sixth Form Study Centre, excellent boarding

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accommodation, 25m swimming pool, all-weather sports pitches and Scotland’s only school equestrian centre. If you would like to visit us or for further information contact Mrs Barbara McGarva: admissions@ kilgraston.com, 01738 812257

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

A Family Education with ESMS ESMS are a unique family of independent schools for boys and girls in Edinburgh which offer an educational environment which provides families with what we believe to be the best of all educational approaches which ensures that their children are able to make the best social, emotional and academic progress possible. The children are taught together from Nursery to Primary 7, after which they then receive the benefits of singlesex senior education before joining together again for a coeducational Sixth Form. As senior school pupils, the girls attend The Mary Erskine School and the boys Stewart’s Melville College. Taught separately, the girls and boys have more freedom to be themselves, gain confidence and achieve their potential while at

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the same time benefiting from a share guidance structure. Stewart’s Melville College was named Scottish Independent Secondary of the Year in 2013 and The Mary Erskine School in 2012. Daily coach services are offered across Edinburgh, the Lothians, and Fife and the journey time on the new Borders Railway is around 1 hour with a school coach available for drop off and pick up to Haymarket Station. The schools also offer boarding facilities which provide a comfortable, close-knit and happy home from home for children from Primary 6 to Sixth Form. Bursaries up to 100% of fees are available for boys and girls from Primary 7. To find out more please contact: Admissions Secretary, Tel: 0131 311 1111 admissions@ esms.org.uk, www.esms.org.uk.

The Compass School The Compass School remains East Lothian’s only independent primary school providing quality education for boys and girls from pre-school to Primary Seven. Children attending the School enjoy its friendly and caring environment where they feel secure and happy and are encouraged to succeed, developing confidence, skills and ability. Its small class sizes allow each child to enjoy a very high level of individual attention. The School was recently awarded ‘Excellent’ in every aspect of its provision by the Care Inspectorate, reflecting the quality and high standards of care and nurturing its children enjoy. Offering a comprehensive and wide-ranging curriculum with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy, the School has an excellent track record in preparing children for entrance

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assessments into secondary education. Children also enjoy opportunities for music, drama, art and a wide range of sports, regularly achieving excellent results at local and national level. The School offers a wide-ranging outdoor education programme with annual visits to the Scottish highlands, outward bound centres in Perthshire and Peebleshire, and expeditions to York, London and Paris. Extracurricular activities are also an important feature of school life. The School provides before and after-school care from 7.45am in the morning to 6pm in th evening. Financially-assisted places are offered for children throughout the School at every stage. For further details or to arrange a visit, please call 01620 822642 or e-mail: office@ thecompassschool.co.uk

INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Basil Paterson school Basil Paterson, established in Edinburgh in 1929, offers a unique, independent academic achievement. It has two establishments situated in the heart of Edinburghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic New Town, providing an alternative academic choice for learners in a relaxed, calming and supportive environment. The collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Middle School caters for S3 and S4 pupils and offers a broad, modern GCSE/IGCSE curriculum. Class sizes are small, which helps nurture a personal and caring environment. Core subjects are English, Maths, Science and Spanish with electives of History/ICT, Media, Business Studies and Psychology. Basil Paterson Tutorial College accommodates learners

aged 16 years and above on full-time SQA National 5s, Higher and A-level courses in a wide variety of subjects, with maximum class sizes of six students per class. It acts as a useful stepping stone between school and further study, supporting learners in achieving their academic goals. Easter revision classes and top-up tuition for external candidates is also available which provides an invaluable opportunity for intensive revision and practice of exam questions. Part of what makes Basil Paterson unique is its provision of flexible tuition on a long or short-term basis; one-toone additional support and its flexibility in accommodating both English and Scottish exam boards.

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lifestyle Shirts with style With their quintessential British heritage and passion for equestrianism, the Freddie Parker men’s shirt collection combines a Savile Row approach to tailoring and contemporary styling, with a nod to the countryside. This beautiful long sleeve striped shirt is styled in 100% poplin striped cotton and features a classic cut and some gorgeous design details. Proudly displaying the Freddie Parker signature embroidered motif on the chest, the Freddie Parker Epsom Shirt lining of the retro short button down collar, placket and inside of the cuffs also feature the Freddie Parker graphic print. A gorgeous shirt for this season which looks great whatever your occasion and with the new women’s collection also available: his and her equals super stylish! Sizes S -XXL Available in Dark Blue, Light Blue and Lilac RRP: £79.00 www.freddieparker.com

Winter woolies for little pooches

This cute knitted sweater from Pink Whiskers brings a touch of Nordic glamour and warmth to your dog’s winter wardrobe. The Nordic Style Wool Sweater is woven in natural wool, which allows your dog’s skin to breath, whatever the weather and features a gorgeous Nordic design throughout in Slate Grey and Ecru. A cute jumper that you will be wishing came in human sizing! Sizes: XS - XL RRP: £18.00 www.pinkwhiskers.co.uk 116

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lifestyle A marriage made in heaven!

RS rural

STYLE By Helen Burness

WINTER WARMTH WITH STYLE! As temperatures plunge, you can still look stylish and keep warm this winter!

Tweed fashion designers Timothy Foxx are launching their first ever ‘Wedding Collection’ this autumn. The new collection is introduced with two beautiful designs the ‘Sophia’ and ‘Robyn’ and embodies the brand’s passion for tweed with their signature twist on heritage design. Featuring a sweet heart neckline and full skirt, the ‘Sophia’ features a Cream antique inspired lace waistband and is styled in a beautiful Fern herringbone British tweed featuring a gorgeous Oatmeal and Mustard plaid throughout. The dress takes on ‘50’s wedding glamour with its structured paneling and full skirt, which cascades to the floor courtesy of multiple petticoats and clever seam placement. Rosalie Eustace, MD and Creative director for the brand explains the creative thinking about the range: “We’ve supplied mother-in-laws outfits, groom and best man outfits, hats and wedding favours and for so long our customers have been asking us when we were would diversify into wedding dresses. Now, we are proud to offer brides-to-be our quintessentially British designed dresses with a touch of tweed, offering something different and totally original” Their new bridal service also enables brides a very personal experience with Rosalie helping to create their dream bespoke dress, as well as stylistically tying in their entire day from wedding favours through to their husband to be’s suit. www.timothyfoxx.co.uk

This unique unisex Timothy Foxx Deerstalker Hat is seriously stylish. Styled in finest British Tweed celebrating a range of contemporary colours within its stunning patchwork design. Also featuring Grey/Black faux fur trim detail, a soft polar fleece lining and adjustable chin flaps which can be attached at the crown for milder weather or fastened around the chin to beat the Brrrrrr..! Small; 55cm, Medium; 57cm, Large; 59cm, Extra Large; 61cm RRP: £49.00 www.timothyfoxx.co.uk Telephone: 01296 423 399

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lifestyle Polo anyone?

By Paul Tinson

Paul Tinson of RSABI outlines measures to help farmers and crofters this winter on the Orkney Islands with three emergency shipments of straw delivered to livestock farmers on the island of Westray. Following an exceptionally wet summer some farmers and crofters struggled to produce the necessary volume of feed and bedding required for their stock for the coming winter. RSABI, NFUS, ScotGov and Ringlink worked together to arrange the vital shipments. While farmers paid the market rate for the straw, the shipping was funded by the organisers. RSABI contributed over £22,000 to this endeavour assisting 23 farmers and crofters on the island, helping to see them through the winter. RSABI continues to operate a wider fund for straw haulage to Orkney during these tough times, thus far processing 45 applications totalling some £20,000 of support. If anyone out there is struggling, please call us on our confidential helpline 0300 111 4166.

RSABI outlines measures to help farmers and crofters this winter on the Orkney Islands Throughout the entire country we are also busy helping people like Jane at a time of crisis: With her parents now deceased, and receiving just a basic pension, Jane struggled to make ends meet on her croft. When her own health began to fail, RSABI became involved, contributing a grant to assist with essential home repairs. The RSABI case officer also assisted Jane with benefits to ensure she received everything she was entitled to. RSABI’s intervention made a significant difference to Jane’s quality of life. The helpline takes calls every day of the year from 7am to 11pm providing a single point of enquiry for anyone regardless of age or circumstances, handling everything from questions about the benefits system, to delivering support on critical personal matters including money troubles and emotional distress – it acts as an entry point to RSABI for anyone that may require financial assistance. . Call RSABI on 0300 111 4166 or visit www.rsabi.org.uk

The ‘ Spanish Riding Polo Boot’ is not only popular with polo riders, but they also make a great training boot for style conscious riders and a fashion statement teamed with dark denim and a poncho for the ultimate in equestrian chic. Featuring a central front zip, over-strap with popper for a smart and practical detail and Good Year welted leather sole, these boots are styled in a beautiful quality Spanish leather for stunning good looks and performance! Perfect for life in the saddle or the city! RRP: £280.00 Colours: Black, Tan, Navy and Chocolate Brown Available in unisex sizing Sizes: UK 2.5 – 12 www.thespanishbootcompany.co.uk

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lifestyle In the hunt for safety & style! This clever jacket from Equetech combines safety with style with its’ hidden stretch side panels which allow the rider to wear a back protectors and some styles of air-vests comfortably underneath, without losing the beauty of a traditional tailored jacket. Originally designed for the hunting field, the Equetech Hybrid Hunt Frock Coat is also ideal for wearing in the competition arena this coming winter when fresh horses and artic weather conditions don’t always equate to ‘calm and collected’! Styled along classic lines, this traditional frock coat features some great contemporary and practical design features including hidden double zip flap pockets, large single hare internal pocket, option to close the collar up with the additional throat tab to help beat the elements and water resistant lining to the skirt and hidden internal wind catcher cuffs. The 100% pure wool jacket also features a unique weather resistant internal membrane across the shoulders to help protect against the worst of the weather and the double back vents with button detailing add to the overall elegance of this jacket. Sizes: 34 - 44 Colours: Navy RRP: £279.95 Also available in Keepers Tweed (Without stretch side panel) & Junior sizes also available. www.equetech.com

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@home Everyone needs a clever chimney! Many Farming Scotland readers who own a stove will have a warm cosy existence but there will be some who are frustrated by stove problems, such as smoke blow-back caused by wind or atmospheric pressure, difficulties lighting the stove and getting it going properly or by the irritating smell of smoke or oil that seems to be permanently invading the house. You are not alone - and there is a solution. The FlueCube, known as “The clever chimney cowl”, guarantees to solve these problems. What’s more, it is manufactured in the UK and has no moving parts, so it is not going to break or wear out even it high winds. Crucially, it has been designed to be installed on all types of chimney. Why not have a look at their website www. fluecube.co.uk? Or give them a ring on 01580 715870 and your stove problems will be solved.

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@home An Ecco Stove story A simple and natural renewable home heating solution burning wood logs The Client In October 2014 after a response from a magazine advertisement in the national press we were called to a farmhouse in the Monmouthshire countryside. A most stunning, if not exposed property nestled into the hillsides overlooking the black mountains. Our prospective farmer client wanted a wood burning stove in his very spacious kitchen / sitting room area and had heard the Ecco Stove could heat much more than just this very large space without over heating the initial room. The Task The Object of the exercise was to heat from the kitchen / sitting room, through into the galleried hallway, across the hallway into the dining room and of course up the stairway into at least three of the six bedrooms. The total area to heat was 240m² The installation went ahead after a visit by our surveyor to the home and to our showrooms and workshops, the preferred colour match and the E730 oval Ecco Stove chosen. (Charcoal body with grey fittings) The Execution The stove was built onsite within an hour and our clients (Chris & Rachel) own Hetas engineer installed the twin wall flue on the same day, the stove was fired up and left gently running. Mild weather followed for the next two weeks with no reports back of performance or success. The weather turned and the phone calls started – every two days. Our customer was achieving not only the heating in the areas we had quoted for 240m², but actually the conservatory, corridor and the other bedrooms.( a total of 330m²) This was a 37% larger area than we had quoted. Chris & Rachel installed air source heat pumps two years prior to halve their heating costs from £3130 to £1775. Bearing in mind he initially only wanted a wood burning stove to heat their large kitchen / sitting room area, they had managed to halve the heat pump running costs as well, from £1775 to £976. So pleased with the home heating contribution his E730 has made, they have has since installed our largest model, the Ecco Stove E850 in their barn / workshops. We expect the E730 stove to have paid for itself in 3 years. For more information: www.eccostove.com or call Tel: 01527 857814 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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@home Rural Chic Cream Wooden Storage Wine Unit

A fantastic piece of furniture inspired by the country farmhouses of France with two shelves, two drawers and two bottle holder shelves. Wood makes a lovely addition to a country farmhouse kitchen and matching items available in this range We are sure that you can envisage it in your country farmhouse kitchen, or French-inspired dining room. The paint is finished with distressing and its dimensions are 81 cm x 80 cm x 35 cm (height x width x depth) Price: £224.95 Stockist information: www.florafurniture.co.uk

Fancy a Porcelain Peacock Cup Tea Cup with Saucer and Spoon?

Not for everyone!....this ‘some may say’ Stylish Tea Coffee Cup Mug of Peacock Shape has a certain artistic look and would make a good conversation piece – maybe a good chat too if you bought a whole tea set!! Price: £18.50 Stockist information: en.dawanda.com

Beech wood Egg Holder Hand crafted solid beech egg holder for six eggs. ‘1/2 DOZEN’ is embossed into the side - great for egg storage and a perfect gift for an aspiring baking god or goddess to keep within arms’ reach ready to whip up the latest show stopper. Width 20.5cm, Depth 12.5cm, Height 9cm Annabel James is an online boutique offering home accessories, jewellery and gorgeous gifts, beautifully wrapped and delivered. Price: £19.95 Stockist information: www.annabeljames.co.uk

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ART with Carole Ingram & Hilary Gauci

Looking at the work of artists inspired by Scotland's rural surroundings and culture

Dot Walker This month we are featuring the work of Aberdeenshire ceramicist, To start the year, we would like to introduce you to the beautiful, vibrant work of artist Dot Walker. Based in Inverness for the past ten years, Dot is married with three children but has lived and worked abroad in countries as diverse as Australia and Nepal in her previous capacity as nurse and midwife. Although not formally trained, Dot studied part time at Glasgow Art School and her work is strongly influenced by the work of James Guthrie and E H Hornell and modern Scottish colourists such as Chris Bushe and Shahzia Mahmood. Dot works mostly in oils using a strong palette of vivid colours. She employs techniques using everything from decorating brushes to palette knives to achieve stunning results. Inspiration is drawn, in part, from the continuously changing light and colour in the Scottish landscape. Her paintings are an intuitive response to nature in all her moods. Dotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clever use of vivid colour in portraying the starkly rugged Scottish landscape gives her work an immediately appealing vibrancy, inviting the viewer to enjoy and participate in her work. Original works and prints can be obtained from Dotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own website at www.dotwalker.co.uk, the Ealain Gallery, Stirling and the Holroyd Gallery, Ballachulish.

Cuillins September Sky

Through Glen Etive

Carole Ingram, an artist in oils. Children and animal portraiture a speciality. www.caroleingram.co.uk www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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cars The new smart fortwo cabrio is now available to order from just £13,265 OTR and arrives in showrooms in early 2016. The newest addition to the smart range comes with an electricallyoperated fabric roof that can be lowered or raised in just 12 seconds at any vehicle speed, as well as the low running costs, stylish design and dynamic handling that’s familiar from the rest of the smart range. The fortwo cabrio’s triplelayered soft top –including glass rear screen - fully opens, while the roof side bars are removable and fit easily into the cabrio’s folding tailgate ensuring they never encroach into the cabrio’s

The Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine was voted the Car of the Year in the Stuff Gadget Awards 2015. Stuff is the UK’s bestselling gadget magazine, and its awards celebrate the pick of the year’s technology. The XC90 T8 defeated such illustrious competition as the Ariel Nomad, Audi RS3, Range Rover Sport SVR, Tesla Model S P85D, Toyota Mirai and the Volkswagen Golf R to claim the title. Commenting on the awardwinning car, the Stuff.tv website

The new Smart Fortwo Cabrio boot space. The fortwo cabrio comes with a black soft top as standard, but customers can also opt for the red option (£115). A compact wind deflector (£59) is also available. The fortwo cabrio is available with one of two engines - 71 hp or 90 hp turbo - twinned with a new five-speed manual gearbox (available to order in spring 2016) or twinamic six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (£995), which brings quick gear shifts and even greater efficiency when paired with the 90hp engine. When powered by the 71 hp engine the fortwo cabrio returns up to 65.7 mpg on the combined

cycle, emits just 99 g/km of CO2 and has a top speed of 94 mph. The 90 hp turbo variant (which costs £595 more) returns up to 67.3 mpg, emits 99 g/km and has

a top speed of 96 mph. At just 2.69 metres long, the compact dimensions of the fortwo cabrio ensure that it is more agile than ever before.

Volvo xc90 T8 is a winner

deputy editor Tom Parsons said: “Safe, stylish and a dream to drive, the new XC90 is a techtoting titan that’s both swift and economical, with smarts to make a genius jealous and genuinely useful on-the-road driver aids.” The XC90 T8 is at the forefront of Volvo’s technological revolution, featuring a powerful petrol engine with an electric motor to provide dynamic performance with outstanding efficiency and environmental credentials. Every XC90 also comes with Sensus Connect, which includes internet connectivity and

access to a range of web apps such as Rdio, Stitcher, TuneIn, LocalSearch and Yelp.*

The XC90 T8 Twin Engine is on sale now, with prices starting from £60,455.

2016 SsangYong Rexton arrives The Rexton is SsangYong’s flagship sport utility vehicle (SUV), and is greatly enhanced for 2016. In addition to the new 2.2 litre Euro 6 diesel engine, Rexton also gets the choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or new Mercedes-Benz 7-speed automatic. The newly developed e-XDi220 diesel engine meets the demand for a more powerful performance and lower CO2 emissions at the same time. Maximum power is increased to 178ps and torque 124

to 400Nm - up by 15% and 11% respectively over the previous Euro 5 diesel 2.0 litre engine. Maximum torque is delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving. Big strides have also been made with CO2 emissions which have been reduced to 184g/ km, down from 196g/km on the previous manual transmission model, while fuel economy is considerably improved and now up to 40mpg (Combined cycle) compared with 38.2mpg on the

model it replaces. With prices starting from only £22,995, the 2016 Rexton

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2.2 has an almost unrivalled position in the 4x4 sector, and is now available.

cars Top safety rating for Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback, equipped with Subaru’s advanced EyeSight collision avoidance technology, has been awarded the highest possible safety rating – named a ‘Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) – by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS, a not-for-profit organisation based in the USA, awarded the Outback with its TSP+ rating after it achieved the highest possible score of ‘Good’ in all five tests of the car’s collision safety performance. It also scored the maximum possible ‘Superior’ rating for front crash prevention.

Fitted as standard to every Subaru Outback sold in the UK with a Lineartronic (CVT) transmission, EyeSight acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers, employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards. EyeSight is a major contributing factor to the Outback’s maximum five-star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating, achieved earlier this year. EyeSight’s two colour cameras are located either side of the rear view mirror to detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards up

to 110 metres in front. EyeSight features six technologies to maximise safety: Pre-collision Braking, Pre-collision Throttle

Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure & Sway Warning, Pre-collision Steering Assist and Lead Vehicle Start Alert

Jeep Renegade takes 4x4 Magazine’s 4x4 of the Year award The accolade comes at the end of an excellent debut year for the small SUV. To date more than 5,800 Renegades have been sold in the UK while, around the world, the newcomer has already scooped numerous awards. In this latest recognition, the off-road driving publication’s panel of expert judges was unanimous in its decision to award the Jeep Renegade its highest ‘4x4 of the Year’ honour. And after putting a rangetopping Trailhawk version through its paces on a tough

off-road evaluation course, the testers concluded that the entire Renegade range was worthy of the top award. Quite simply, it’s one of the most significant 4x4s to be produced in the last five years. It’s certainly a worthy recipient of 4x4 Magazine’s 2016 4x4 of the Year. In the same awards, the Renegade won the ‘Mid-range SUV sub-£30,000’ category, while the legendary Jeep Wrangler took the ‘Hardcore’ class for the fourth consecutive year.

Born again concept cars to make their debut at London’s top classic car show Highly accurate recreations, not replicas, bring two bold Jaguar icons from the ’60s and the ’90s back to life. Two concept cars from Jaguar – originally built more than three decades apart – have been accurately recreated by classic car experts, who plan to offer exact reproductions for sale. The first is the mid-engined XJ13, a possible Le Mans contender built in the 1960s, while the second recreates 1999’s XK180, originally crafted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the much-loved

Jaguar XK120. Both evocative recreations will be unveiled at the 2016 London Classic Car Show (ExCeL, 18-21 February) – the first time either will have been seen in public. The original XJ13 was completed by Jaguar in 1966 and was powered by a prototype quad-cam 5.0-litre V12 engine. Just one car was completed and it claimed a UK speed record after racing driver David Hobbs lapped the banked MIRA test track at an average speed of more than 161 mph. Remarkably it held the record for 32 years.

It was later badly damaged in a high-speed crash, also at MIRA, but the rebuilt XJ13 – still owned

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE 126

Paul Harrison Case IH has announced the appointment of Paul Harrison as Business Manager UK & ROI, with full responsibility for the Case IH business in these regions. Well known in the agricultural industry, where he has had a long and successful career, Paul has extensive experience of the dealer and manufacturing sectors, much of it gained with Case IH. Having joined the company as Regional Service Manager in 1989 Paul has subsequently taken on increasing responsibilities within Case IH, becoming Area Manager, then Major Accounts Manager and most recently Harvesting Coordinator EMEA, a position to which he was appointed in May 2012. Joe Redman OPICO has appointed Joe Redman as Product Specialist for its new range of trailed min-till and no-till drills. Joe will be in charge of demonstrations and providing technical knowledge to support the OPICO sales team after the launch of the two new SkyAgriculture machines, the EasyDrill and the MaxiDrill. He will also provide support to the OPICO Dealer network, his role encompassing training dealers and operators how to use the drills, whilst setting off machines on farm. Joe is a farmer’s son, with machinery experience from working on farms in France and Australia as well as the family farm in Bedfordshire. His first experience of direct drilling and cover cropping was whilst working in France and he is an enthusiastic supporter of min-till and no-till cultivations. Dan MacDonald Dan Macdonald is the new marketing and product development manager for Rotam. He joins after two successful years at Fram Farmers, as their agricultural chemical specialist, where he managed the procurement of products for members, and developed a broad knowledge of crop protection products. Dan has always worked in agriculture, and his first job was on a friend’s arable and dairy farm, where he’s from in Harleston, on the Norfolk, Suffolk border. “After working on the farm for two years, I developed a real interest and passion for farming, and went on to do a countryside management course at Easton and Otley College, Norwich, which covered environment and agriculture,” says Dan.

Page Turner’s

BOOK REVIEW History and the Land

This month, two new histories from Scotland’s publisher, Birlinn, illuminate the intriguing corners of Scotland’s past.

How has Scotland’s land shaped its history? From the arrival of the first pioneers after the ice age receded until the present day, the way in which people have lived and worked on the land has given distinctive contours to Scottish society and culture as well as to the economy and politics. Two impressive new books from renowned historians Alistair Moffat and Professor James Hunter weave a grand and global story of Scottish life, unearthing fascinating details about events in the past that shape our present. Scotland, A History from Earliest Times is epic in scope and bold in ambition. With his distinctive flair and accessible style, Moffat gets right under the skin of the country bringing events to life from the dawn of prehistory right up to the momentous events of the 2014 Independence Referendum, and subsequent General Election in May 2015. He brings a new perspective to historical events by focusing on ordinary people as well as the regular cast of Scottish history. The narrative shows us that Scotland as we know it today is made up not only of the stories of the saints and warriors of the past, but of the everyday folk who worked the land, gave places names, and contributed to the rich tapestry of the nation. By contrast, James Hunter’s Set Adrift Upon the World uncovers the untold stories of a single episode of Scottish history, but one that

would shape countries across the world, the 19th century Sutherland Clearances. During this harrowing period of forced migration, families were uprooted from the land they had lived on for generations and whole communities were destroyed. The story begins in Scotland, in the hamlet of Ascoilemore, with the tale of the eviction of Jessie Ross and her three daughters. Hunter uncovers the fascinating longstanding and personal connections between those who were cleared from their land and those who organised and carried out the clearance. One of the challenges in telling the story of the clearances is the imbalance in records: the instigators of the clearances wrote extensively about their actions and their words have been preserved. The same cannot be said of the many people they uprooted: as they were scattered to the corners of the earth their feelings and experiences went mostly unrecorded. Hunter has meticulously traced their progress across the snowridden plains of Canada and beyond, giving a powerful sense of these people’s stories, often told in their own words. Scotland, A History from Earliest Times and Set Adrift Upon the World: The Sutherland Clearances are published by Birlinn Ltd and are available now. (£25 each, hbk)