Farming Scotland Magazine (November - December 2016)

december 2016

Scotland’s national farming & rural lifestyle magazine

Tuathanachas Alba

magazine

2017 Year Planner Wall Poster Free Inside AgriScot 2016 Preview ATV’s

LiveScot 2016 Lamma 2017

Diet Feeders

Flavour of Scotland Scotland’s Speciality Food Show

Farm Security Company Profile McLaren Tractors, Dingwall Our Farm Shop Castleton Farm Shop

‘Isolation Shepherd’ The final instalment Great Scots Rev. Henry Duncan Country Woman Featuring Fiona Guest

In Focus GrainTek (UK) Ltd

The Interview with Paul Tinson, RSABI £3.00

Topic RSABI Success

Plus World Farming s New to Market s Whisky s Forestry including all of our regular news sections and columns

contents

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december 2016

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84

MAIN FEATURES

WHISKY

24

ATV’s

63

33

AgriScot 2016 Preview

66

Farm Security

Xmas present idea?

68

McLaren Tractors Profile

ISOLATION SHEPHERD

74

LiveScot 2016

64

76

Diet Feeders

The final instalment

103 Lamma 2017

DROVERS TALES

FLAVOUR of SCOTLAND

89

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113 Living on the islands

BEATHA AN EILEAN

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show

OUR FARM SHOP 18

Diary of Ken Headspeath

Castleton Farm Shop

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE 115 With Linda Mellor

TOPIC 19

COUNTRY WOMAN

Success for RSABI

IN FOCUS 22

GrainTek (UK) Ltd

29

With Paul Tinson, RSABI

WORLD FARMING 30

Iceland

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

32 84 85 90 93 96 97 98 101 106 107 108 114 116 119 121 124 136 138 140

New to Market Beef Livestock Dairy Sheep Pigs Investing in People Renewable Energy Environment Science & Technology Gadgets Estate Forestry Horses Future Farmer Finance Machinery @Home Lifestyle Cars

134 Featuring Fiona Guest

COLUMNS

GREAT SCOTS

6 7 9 13 16 17 67 84 87

137 Rev. Henry Duncan

THE INTERVIEW

117

NEWS 6 11 20 21

Arable Potatoes EU News Organics

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Fleming Email: christina@atholedesign.com

Editor’s bit In my view The Scottish Government Crofting Farmers Markets Let’s Cook Farm Watch Quality Meat Scotland The Vet

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

134 91 94 95 102 109 110 117 120 123 135 139 142 142

NFU Scotland NSA Scotland The Young Shepherd Farming for the Climate Conservation Matters Scottish Land & Estates Equine Angle S.A.Y.F.C. The Money Man Southern Belle Rural Style People on the Move Book Review

SUBSCRIPTION 140 Get your copy posted directly to your door

NEXT ISSUE Will be out on 5th January featuring Tractors, Tyres, Dairy, Renewables, Education etc., PLUS our 2017 Showguide Poster.

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

Join us on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/FarmingScotlandMagazine

arable editor's bit The reassurance of certainties One thing is for sure, Christmas and the New Year are on the way. Both are absolute certainties, unlike the whole political scene in Scotland, the UK, Europe and the world.

I don’t care too much if you are for or against Scottish independence, for or against leaving the EU, or any of that stuff, it is the continuous uncertainty that is the real killer here!!

Every business likes to make plans for the following year, and our company is no different for any other.

I have my own personal thoughts on the way ahead for Scotland, the UK and the EU, but will those in real positions of power listen?....not a chance.

We are all governed by a political class, who quite frankly, would be lucky to make it to week three of The Apprentice. And that goes for most of them… pointing no elbows!

Meanwhile in the real world of running a day to day business, we have to make plans for the future, and that is what we are doing now as I type this column.

2017 will see growth in terms of our retail network throughout Scotland, as we have plans in place to progress that area of our ongoing development.

2017 will also see the further establishment of our new sister title ‘Shooting Scotland Magazine’, which will be published alongside Farming Scotland is March, July and September.

So, here at Athole Design & Publishing Ltd, we have our 2017 plans and aims in place.

If only the rest of our lives were that simple eh?

Finally, and despite the political scenery, I would like to wish you all a great Christmas, and a successful and prosperous 2017.

Slàinte, Athole.

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Two-pronged approach to tackling light leaf spot With high disease risk forecast and recent AHDB research suggesting spore infection may be occurring earlier than previously thought, the traditional approach of one autumn fungicide may prove ineffective in many situations, the firm’s northern regional technical manager Cam Murray says.

“Light leaf spot is a real issue in this area and early control is certainly better; think of it like the protectant approach to septoria control in wheat.

“It is vital to get control of the disease from the start. If we don’t there’s little chance of stopping infection spreading from the leaves to the stem in the spring, especially as none of the main fungicide options offer very strong curative ability. Prothioconazole is generally the strongest active on light leaf spot, but that still only offers relatively limited curative control.”

Mr Murray’s preferred approach is to apply the first fungicide spray in early autumn at the 5-6 leaf stage of the crop and follow this up with a second spray towards the end of October or early November before worsening field conditions prevent travel.

Prochloraz and propiconazole is a relatively cost-effective mix at the earlier timing, with prothioconazole and tebuconazole preferred for the second spray, he suggests.

Forward crops (i.e. those with 6-8 leaves by early October) may require growth regulation and in such cases consider metconazole or tebuconazole-based products, adds Hutchinsons technical development director David Ellerton. However these may not offer the level of disease control required if used alone.

Cereal growth regulator mepiquat chloride in combination with metconazole

also has clearance for autumn application in forward oilseed rape, although he says this should be applied at the 4-6 leaf stage for maximum benefit.

Again, this product will require an additional fungicide in many situations.

Mr Murray reinforces the importance of varietal resistance in tackling light leaf spot and suggests that where growers have sown a particularly disease resistant variety (e.g. rated 7 for LLS) there may be scope for a single autumn fungicide.

“However, if you do go down this route, make sure it goes on earlier rather than later,” he notes.

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In my view

arable

By John Cameron Balbuthie, Kilconquhar, Fife

New ideas, novel designs, Innovative systems and equipment at CropTec 2016 CropTec, the essential technical event for arable and mixed farmers, their advisers and associated industries, will be packed with innovation designed to help growers become more profitable in the post-Brexit era.

The innovation line-up covers crop nutrition, plant breeding, crop establishment, crop breeding and machinery.

More than 140 leading suppliers of the latest technology, products and services will be on hand to discuss developments

across the arable sector when CropTec returns to the East of England Showground on 29th and 30th November.

A visit to the event will help ensure growers keep apace of the rapid changes that are taking place in cropping, cultivations and input application.

CropTec remains free for everyone to attend, provided tickets are booked in advance.

For further information and to book tickets go to www. croptecshow.com

New National Advisory Service Launched for Farmers and Crofters Scotland’s new Farm Advisory Service (FAS) has been launched.

The FAS forms part of the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP), which is co-funded by the EU and Scottish Government.

The £20m contract was awarded earlier this year to SAC Consulting (part of Scotland’s Rural College) and Ricardo Energy and Environment. It runs until the end of December 2020.

Today, the new FAS website goes live (www.fas.scot) along with a dedicated telephone advice line for farmers and crofters (0300 323 0161). The service will expand over the coming weeks and months into a comprehensive delivery package of practical information and advice to farmers and crofters across Scotland.

The website will be a source of data and information, tools and apps, all designed to be relevant to modern farming and crofting enterprises. At its centre is a calendar of events that will detail all of the workshops, network farm meetings, conferences and training courses that will be planned and delivered as part of the FAS. The website also hosts the entry point for grant applications for Integrated Land Management Plans (ILMP); Specialist Advice; Mentoring for New Entrants; and Carbon Audits. Application forms can now be downloaded from the website which provide access to up to £2,200 grant assistance for ILMP and £500 for carbon audits.

The advice line operates between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, covering a wide

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Brexit Effect So far, - whether by design or by accident – the effect of Brexit has been reasonably favourable for parts of our Scottish Agricultural industry.

Following the drop in the value of the pound against the Euro the sectors of agriculture that export to the rest of the EU – such as the sheep sector – have seen a welcome firming in prime lamb prices which – so far – has been reasonably well sustained.

The other positive factor is that – for the same reason – the fixing of the value in Sterling of our Annual Basic Payments has meant an increase of some 17% over last year’s figure. This could well be the most positive aspect of this year’s payments.

However it has to be remembered that the value of the pound can fluctuate in either direction and I don’t believe it is a sound base for fixing the price of our major commodities.

So what do we know of the Brexit implications for sure – and the answer is not very much! We have had a fairly bland assurance that financial support for the industry will continue till 2019/2020 but will there be any changes in that support?

And of course the vital question – what happens

after that? And the special question for Scotland – what support are the Less Favoured Areas going to receive. I believe that there was a realisation by the EU of just how much agriculture supports the social fabric of these parts of the country but we need to hear that loud and clear from the British Government who must take a lead from Holyrood in this respect.

Neither should the Brexit negotiations allow some of our critical Scottish/UK matters to be side-lined. We are still waiting to hear about the realignment of the famous – or infamous – convergence fund along with the matter of the return of the levy in respect of Scottish lambs slaughtered in England.

We can’t really expect our Scottish Cabinet Secretary to solve all our ‘Brexit problems’ but it would certainly bode well for him if he is successful in these two internal UK matters. That would balance to some extent all the stick he is taking regarding payment of our subsidies. In fairness to him he does deserve credit for securing the resource to cover 80% of this year’s payments.

But the best news would be that the problem is solved – permanently!

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arable variety of topics including cross compliance, water framework directive requirements, climate change and many other technical issues.

Another feature of the new FAS is the Crofter and Small Farm Advisory Service. This will provide discounted subscription and consultancy services for crofters and farming businesses (under 30 Ha) across Scotland. Full details are available on the FAS website (https://www.fas.scot/ crofters-small-farms). Information will also be on hand at the Scottish Smallholder Festival in Lanark on 24 September.

The website, the advice line, the grant schemes and the discounted consultancy services are just the start. As the resources and events grow, the FAS approach will be to address not just business efficiency and viability but climate change and environment, as well as compliance and greening in an integrated manner that provides sustainable and practical advice.

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Welcoming the start to the new service, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus Ewing, commented: “Access to the best and most up-to-date advice is essential to any business. Aimed specifically at farmers and crofters across Scotland, I welcome the launch of the new integrated Farm Advisory Service, which will provide a faster and less complicated entry point to a range of relevant practical advice, information and tools from business efficiency and viability to compliance and climate change advice.”

NFU Scotland’s Director of Policy, Jonnie Hall said: “The real need for relevant and accessible advice for all of Scottish agriculture has come into sharp focus over the last eighteen months. Looking forward, every active farmer and crofter in Scotland will need to look more closely at what they do and how they do it. That makes an effective and seamless advisory service essential. NFU Scotland

fully supports the development and roll out of the new Farm Advisory Service, and encourages all farmers and crofters to make the most of the new approaches, tools and techniques it has to offer.”

The Scottish Crofting Federation’s Director Brendan O’Hanrahan said: “We are reassured that the basic network of SAC local offices, offering skilled and experienced one-to-one advice backed-up by intimate knowledge

of the local area is remaining as the backbone of the advisory service. As ever, local delivery is key. We welcome the provision of an expanded programme of information meetings, new entrants’ workshops and events on issues such as cross-compliance and biodiversity. The new FAS will result in better coordination across the country and a wider range of useful advisory material will be made more accessible.”

Robust plant genetics withstand the toughest of seasons Growers need to look behind the headline figures and fully understand the robustness of their wheat variety genetics, urges Ron Granger, arable technical manager with Limagrain UK.

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“This season we have seen unprecedented levels of foliar disease from aggressive yellow rust races and some of the worst Septoria tritici pressure that has been seen for many seasons. On top of this high levels of take-

arable

We are here to help you

Fergus Ewing, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity

all were seen at the end of the season affecting both first and second wheat yield potential.”

“Generally, the ability of wheat varieties to withstand this disease pressure has been very varied, with some genetics holding up well whilst other varieties have succumbed to the intense pressure.”

The AHDB provisional harvest results for 2016 state that the average wheat yields for 2016 were 10.7t/ha, which is close to the five year average of 10.6t/ha, and Mr Granger points out that whilst there were not many stand out

yield performances from wheats this harvest, it’s the consistency of a varieties performance over differing seasons that is key, and one that he encourages growers to understand better.

“If a variety has managed to hold its own and produce yields up around the five year average in what was one of the most challenging disease years, then you can be fairly confident that the genetics behind that variety are well tested and will continue to hold up to current “known” pressures, and the same principle would apply to quality.”

Awards open to seek top sprayer operators The Farm Sprayer Operator Of The Year 2017 awards are now open for entries. The awards seek to reward the country’s top operators - whilst also sharing the practical tips and best practice that can help

all operators enhance results and protect the environment.

Entries for FSOOTY 2017 can be submitted through a simple online form and questionnaire on The Farming Forum website.

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I am determined to provide as much certainty as we can, not just for farmers and crofters, but for the wider economy in our rural communities. That is why, I announced to parliament in September that farmers will not have to wait until 2017 to receive payment towards their BPS and Greening entitlement. Letters have been issued to farmers and crofters across Scotland setting out how to apply to the national loan scheme, which aims to inject up to £300 million into the rural economy, safeguarding jobs and local agriculture businesses, and enabling them to proceed with the normal business of settling bills and taking investment decision.

To date, 10,884 have so far applied to receive 80% of their 2016 BPS and Greening payment up to a maximum of 150,000,000. Payments will now be paid in the first two weeks of November in the currency customers opted to receive their CAP payments in.

I want to reassure farmers and crofters who may have missed the deadline for submission, that they should

still apply. You will still receive your payment, but not in the first half of November. I am aware of a small number of cases that are complex and will require more time to establish their eligibility.

Officials are currently accessing these cases and anyone found eligible will receive a letter inviting them to apply in due course. However, a smaller number of cases will not fulfil the criteria. If you think you are one of these cases or are experiencing hardship, please contact the RPID Customer Information line on 0300 300 2222 or via nationalBPScheme@gov.scot.

In these uncertain times, we all want certainty and security. I am working hard to deliver that certainty and am pushing the UK Government to provide immediate clarity on a number of key farming and food issues that directly impact the Scottish rural economy. In the meantime, I hope that our national loan scheme offers the security and certainty Scotland’s farmers and crofters require to plan for the year ahead and drive forward the rural economy.

arable Good maize silage could be crucial to make up for poorer grass silage this year

This year, for the first time, farmers, managers and agronomists will be able to nominate sprayer operators for the FSOOTY awards.

Cat Gray, Syngenta Marketing Communications Manager, said: “We know that many sprayer operators do an incredible job every day, and have a wealth of knowledge and experience;

however they are reticent to put themselves forward for the awards.

The Farm Sprayer Operator Of The Year awards are sponsored by Syngenta, in association with The Farming Forum; the Voluntary Initiative and City & Guilds NRoSO. Entries must be completed by November 30.

Producing good maize silage could be a crucial step to make up for this year’s poorer grass silage, says a leading forage expert, based on farmer feedback. In particular, he says, it will be important to ensile the crop well.

“In a recent survey that we carried out of around 70 dairy farmers around the country, 40% said their grass silage quality was lower than normal this season,” explains Ecosyl forage specialist, Derek Nelson.

“To make up for the shortfall, around 27% said they needed to make better quality maize silage.

Also, around 13% said they needed to make more maize silage – that’s probably because maize is seen as higher quality forage, so farmers may be planning to feed a higher proportion in the diet.

“As well as lower quality grass silage, 13% of farmers also said they had made less grass silage than normal this season, and were hoping maize silage would help make up the 10

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shortfall. With so many farmers thinking in these ways, clearly it will be important to do the best job possible when it comes to preserving maize crops.”

In particular, Mr Nelson says it is important to remember that losses in maize feed quantity and feed quality can come from two sources: inefficient fermentation, and aerobic spoilage – the latter caused by yeasts and moulds in the presence of air, which causes silage to heat up. It will be important to guard against both issues, he stresses.

“Techniques to minimise the amount of air trapped in the clamp – such as fast filling in thin layers and good consolidation – will be essential,” says Mr Nelson. “So, too, will techniques to minimise air ingress – such as effective clamp sealing, moving the face back quickly at feedout, and keeping the face tidy. However, even with all these steps, it is still impossible to guarantee perfect clamp conditions.

potatoes Scanstone patriot harvester Established in 2004, ScanStone started the manufacture of stone and clod separators as well as bed makers for the root crop farmers.

Since then they have added award winning bed tillers to their range, with configurations of 1, 2 and 3 bed options. Also, added to the ScanStone product range latterly was the vegetable windrower, primarily for the potato crops.

Over the last 5 years, ScanStone have had much success with their 2 row windrower machine, enabling the farmers to vastly increase their harvesting capacity.

At the Potato Europe event, this year held in Northern France, ScanStone launched their first potato harvester.

As a Natural progression to the windrowing machine, the all New ScanStone Patriot harvester maintains a gentle

handling of the crop and has a large capacity cart elevator for crops with large tonnage.

This entry level potato harvester is basic in design and has a great quality build structure, the machine is basic yet refined. Like the rest of the products in the ScanStone range, the Patriot is simple, effective and efficient. It has full belt drive Early next year, the big brother harvester will be introduced with a greater cleaning capacity and the options of a picking off table, digging web and land drive. This larger machine will be the Patriot 8.

It has been 28 years since Gordon Skea was involved in the design of the Reekie 1500m harvester quickly followed by the famous Reekie Clean-Flow

Harvester, both produced in Forfar.

Now, in 2016, they are here again producing trailed

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potato harvesters, the only people in Scotland to do so and one of 2 companies in Great Britain.

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potatoes Secretary of State boost for AHDB export work The importance of export markets to the Scottish potato seed sector was in the spotlight when representatives met with the Rt Hon Andrea Leadsom, Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, in October.

At an exporting event hosted by AHDB at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire yesterday, Alistair Melrose, production manager at seed and ware merchants Wm Fraser and chair of the AHDB Potatoes’ Seed and Export Committee, discussed AHDB’s objectives for the sector.

He said: “In Scotland we have approximately 10,500ha dedicated to seed production and the sector is worth an estimated £80-£100 million. It

is a hugely important industry where foreign markets play a key role; 30% of our seed is exported to both EU and non EU countries.

“During my time with the Cabinet Secretary I stressed the importance of export markets to the seed sector, both maintaining our current markets, as well as expanding into new ones.

Scottish seed is highly regarded and AHDB is capitalising on that through exploring potential new markets such as Kenya and China.

Our goal is to ensure that our growers are able to export their high quality seed around the world and it was great to be able to discuss this with Mrs Leadsom in person.”

New carrot line in Poland tops the bill

As part of an ongoing commitment to the export vegetable market, Tong Engineering has completed another large-scale carrot handling facility, capable of

handling 40 tonnes of crop per hour, for Polish fruit and vegetable producer, Polfarm.

The custom built stainless steel washing, grading and processing line incorporates

some of the largest washing and cooling equipment manufactured

by Tong Engineering, including a 12.5 metre long, 15000kg capacity wet hopper which offers effective presoaking of carrots prior to washing.

At the infeed of the new carrot line, a high capacity Tong Storemaker hopper-cleaning system with Tong’s market leading EasyClean separator, offers bulk unloading of the company’s carrot crop, and effective removal of soil and

PACKAGED POTATO & VEGETABLE COOLING SYSTEMS

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haulm from carrots prior to the washing process.

The carrot washing line begins with a 40 ton per hour cyclone destoner followed by the large presoak tank which feeds two 5m long stainless steel barrel washers, four polishers and a large HydroCooler which cools crop for increased longevity and shelf-life.

Carrots are graded by diameter by a series of Tong’s lift roller graders, and also by length with a number of vibrating length graders, before they are transferred for packing.

potatoes Michał Gulczyński of Polfarm commented: “We have worked with Tong Engineering through our local dealer, HTech, over recent years to upgrade our vegetable handling processes in order to minimise labour requirements as well as increasing throughput. We started by updating our washing and grading facilities for our celeriac and parsley root crops with a complete line from Tong, and further to the success of this line, proceeded with a second line from Tong for our carrot crop.”

“Our new Tong carrot line is now up and running, and processes up to 40 tonnes of carrots per hour, so it really has to stand up to demand! With the increased capacity that the new line offers, we are able to process more crop per hour, meaning running and labour costs are significantly reduced

whilst output is increased. Not only that, the new washing lines are very easy to maintain which saves our operators a lot of time.”

Charlie Rich, export sales manager for Tong, continued; “Having worked with Polfarm on their previous celeriac and parsley root handling project, we were able to fully understand the company’s requirements for the new carrot handling facility.

We worked closely with Michal and our dealer, HTech, to design a line that incorporates grading, washing, polishing and cooling within a compact and efficient line.”

“The new carrot line at Polfarm was installed and commissioned in line with the company’s key carrot processing season, and with dealer HTech closeby, Polfarm have a local contact for any future service or sales requirements.”

crofting Convener Crisis enters absurdity

By Patrick Krause, Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation In his latest statements to the media, Colin Kennedy, the Convener of the Crofting Commission, has said that he has no intention to stand down, despite widespread calls for his resignation. He refutes any wrong doing and claims to have operated within the law, notwithstanding the fact that lawyers and the Cabinet Secretary for crofting, Fergus Ewing, who is himself from a legal background, have said he is wrong. Kennedy has launched a counter-attack, accusing the Scottish Government of legal wrongdoing and has suggested that the Cabinet Secretary should resign. Kennedy has no legal background, but an astonishing amount of arrogance, matched only by his shamelessness.

As expected Kennedy appears to be trying to pass the blame for the whole fiasco to the staff. In his latest outbursts to the media he is accusing everyone in the Commission of misconduct, even though he is responsible for how the Commission operates. Papers obtained under a Freedom of Information request show that he was given advice by senior officials in the CEO’s report to board, that imposing

constables on the grazings shareholders was not legally competent. But he went ahead and did it anyway. He has been found out and trying to put it on the Commission staff is not going to wash.

Kennedy claims to have no knowledge of the fact that his fellow Commissioners have no confidence in him. He must be the only person in Scotland who hasn’t heard that the Commissioners unanimously agreed that Mr Kennedy should stand down. This came immediately following his petulant abandonment of their September board meeting in Brora, the meeting at which he was due to issue an apology to crofters affected by his recent actions.

I hope that by the time you read this Mr Ewing, will have removed Kennedy from office.

This dreadful humiliation of crofting regulation and complete waste of public money has got to stop. It is understandable that Mr Ewing has not jumped in earlier – it is clear that Kennedy will attempt to wreak as must damage to crofting as he can, whether in post or removed. I guess Scottish Government are attempting to limit that damage as much as possible.

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potatoes Brantson’s install new Haith grading, washing and quality sorting machine in Abernethy Branston, one of the largest suppliers of potatoes in the UK, has installed a £1.7m fully integrated grading, washing and sizing line at its Perthshire site, ‘revolutionising’ the factory’s ability to process high volumes of potatoes.

The Haith system is fully automated with the minimum requirement for staff to be on site, and is complete with the Newtec Colex Optical Sorter.

The investment comes in readiness to gear up production

to meet the demand of a new large long-term supply contract.

Branston, which works with 41 Scottish growers said the new line can wash, size grade and remove quality defects in up to 175,000 potatoes every hour / 20 tonnes per hour.

Kevin Imrie, General Manager at Branston’s Abernethy site said the investment “shows our commitment to growing our business in Scotland.”

This machine was the 10th direct drive machine that Haith

have manufactured since this new model was launched in 2011.

Haith now have over 500 Rootveg polishers operating worldwide.

Unusual market dynamics in Northern-European potato trade Currency and supply dynamics are affecting the relative price of British processing potatoes compared to supplies from Belgium and the Netherlands.

“Presently the ex-farm value of GB processing potatoes sits at 70– 80 per tonne lower than comparable Belgian and Dutch quotes – an unusual position for the GB crop compared with previous years’ prices,” said Arthur Marshall, Market Intelligence analyst for the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

“Last season, ex-farm prices for Belgian and Dutch processing varieties were either fairly similar or the GB price point was higher.

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“The price gap has grown dramatically in the last couple of weeks due to Belgian and Dutch prices rising, alongside the falling value of sterling – making GB prices lower in euro terms.”

An extremely tight supply situation on the continent is serving to bolster the price of processing varieties there.

“Belgium is experiencing harvest delays, limiting the amount of nearby supplies available. Harvest reports week ending 14 October indicated the position as less than half complete with the ground often too dry,” added Mr Marshall.

Against the euro, the value of sterling has dropped 15 per cent since the vote for Brexit.

This rapid weakening of the pound’s position has affected relative prices of GB and Belgian/Dutch processing potatoes, resulting in the GB price point falling below.

“This situation may encourage enhanced export activity from the UK as GBproduced potatoes prove a comparatively cheaper option for Northern European buyers, even after accounting for haulage costs,” expands Mr Marshall.

“However GB growers will be taking stock of their storage position at this point and judgments need to be made on pursuing exports in the shortterm against being prepared to

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fulfil domestic markets in late spring.”

Domestic prices for GB processing potatoes have held firm this season with values higher than typical for this time of year, apart from the challenging supply situation of 2012.

There are still several weeks of harvesting to go and AHDB will publish the 2016 GB production estimate in November, when crops have been fully harvested and final yield data is known.

The market will also be keeping a close eye on Eastern Europe, where in Poland production levels are reported to be up 2m tonnes compared to last season.

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show 22-24 January 2017, SECC, Glasgow Head to Glasgow in January for Scotland’s leading buying arena for fine food With 2016 being a solid year for independent retailers and fine food stores across Scotland, this is reflected in the strength of exhibitors at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show in January. Almost two thirds of all the 140 stands are already booked with about a third as new exhibitors with a huge range of quality food and drink.

As the first and leading speciality food show in Scotland, the 3-day event allows buyers the first opportunity in the year to see new ranges, taste new products and plan their stock for the year ahead.

The Launch Gallery is the ideal place for new young companies and this year’s companies are particularly exciting. For example, Scottish company Dukkah Delights is launching Egyptian Dukkah for the first time in the UK, Aberdeenshire chilli and tomato company The Veg Company is exhibiting and Rawnchy from Glasgow is showcasing their handmade raw vegan desserts.

The Launch Gallery will also include Nutural World, Tartanice, Senga’s Chilli Foods, Grown up Foods, Sri Spice, Cocoa Kalula and Scone Kitchen.

New to the Show are exhibitors such as Tracklements, Orkney Distilling with its new gin, Franklin & Son, We Love Man Food, Source Climate Coffee, Mhor Bread from Perthshire, McQueen Gin, Island Bakery from Skye and Perthshire Preserves.

Together with established exhibitors such

as Crystals Shortbread, Little Doone Foods, Stewart Tower Dairy, Orkney Food and Drink and Great Glen Charcuterie, food outlets, both retail and catering, will be able to source many delicious products.

Michelle Wilkinson from The Very Lovely Sauce Company said about the Show: “We love the friendly atmosphere and have great interest from caterers, restaurants and food service companies, as well as orders from shops.”

To make the visitor

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experience more complete, the Seminar Theatre features industry experts on subjects such as social media for business, maximising your business through Google, a gin tasting, retail advice and much more. Best Product Awards are also judged on the opening day and offer retailers a snapshot of the best at the Show.

Tom Lewis from Monachyle Mhor restaurants and shops said: “The quality of the products at the Show is very high.”

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show Director Mark Saunders adds: “With many food retailers reporting a buoyant summer season, we are hoping for a good attendance and strong orders. We are now firmly established as one of the top food and drink buying arenas and we aim to make that buying experience as easy, efficient and inspiring as possible – this year will not disappoint.”

The Show is run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fair.

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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

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

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

When tradition and independent thinking results in a bright future Anyone who has visited the beautiful west coast island of Islay, will almost certainly have taken a tour of at least one of its many distilleries. Bruichladdich, near Port Charlotte in the west of the Island, is one well worth a visit, with its stunning array of whiskies and its new and exciting Botanist Gin. In 1881, the Harvey family, a whisky dynasty from Glasgow, decided to build their third distillery. Taking advantage of the Phyloxera crisis afflicting French cognac, their vision was that they would dominate the world of Scotch whisky, but things did not go quite as planned.

For the next 80 years, changes in the law, economic climate

and poor business deals saw the distillery traded back and forth until it was finally closed in 1994

by Whyte & Mackay as surplus to requirements.

In 2000 the semi-derelict buildings were bought for £6.5M, by a private consortium led by London-based wine merchants, Mark Reynier and Simon Coughlin.

The famous master distiller, Jim McEwan, was tempted away from Bowmore by the new opportunity to create whisky the old-fashioned way, using people instead of computers. There were lots of new ideas too, about traceability, and provenance and a fierce adherence to concepts of variety and nuance in single malts.

There were long and difficult

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

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FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND years ahead however. It was only innovation and independence of thought that somehow allowed the enthusiastic new team to survive what was to become a financial white-knuckle ride.

The long wait for the maturity of the Bruichladdich whisky, meant that something had to be done to improve the cash flow. In 2005 the cash-strapped ‘Laddies’ had purchased an old distillery as scrap, which meant they had the spare parts they desperately needed to keep going. Among the pile of pipes, valves, pumps, tanks and stills, was an old Lomond still.

McEwan immediately recognised that this had potential – the potential to be modified to produce Islay’s first gin.

It was to take five long years in development. Loyal to his island roots to the point of obsession, McEwan was determined to make a gin using local botanicals – and worked with local botanists to build up a flavour profile, that would include 22 plants foraged from the hills, marshes and moorlands of his remote Hebridean home. These were used to supplement nine ‘core’ botanicals, which provided the ‘bass notes’ to the concept.

Eventually, during 2010, the old Lomond, by now christened ‘Ugly Betty’, raised steam once more.

The rest, as they say, is history.

The instantly recognisable, tactile bottle with its 22 botanicals

etched into the glass, all of which are foraged on the island, is an instant attraction and does not disappoint in the tasting. The company exports this remarkable spirit all over the world and expects to produce around 600,000 bottles during 2016.

In addition to the success of The Botanist, the Islay farming community have become intimately involved with the project –sixteen farms are now growing malting barley that Bruichladdich distils separately from mainland grain and markets as ‘uber-provenance’ single malt.

This has resulted in a significant change in the Islay farming landscape, which had already successfully made the transition from dairy to beef when the island creamery closed in 2000.

The fields of barley now make a fine sight as they sway in the late summer breezes.

This extraordinary private company was eventually taken over by French premium spirits giant Remy Cointreau in 2012.

Now financially secure, it provides direct employment for eighty people on the Rhinns of Islay, and many more indirectly as suppliers and contractors. The fiercely independent maverick ethos is still there though…..so here’s to independent thinking and hard work.

Slainte!

Gratin of Tiger Prawns with Chilli and Melting Cheese

200g of Frozen raw Tiger Prawns 2 fresh red chillies, deseeded and finely chopped 75g of Fontina or Gryuere Cheese Juice of 1 lime A few drops of Tabasco 2 tbsp of olive oil 1 large or 2 small red onions, finely sliced 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 275ml of double cream Salt and lots of freshly milled black pepper You will also need four 5 inch round gratin dishes or large ramekins.

Method You need to deal with the prawns in advance by rinsing them, then leaving them in a colander set over a bowl for about an hour to defrost.

After that, peel off the shells and then, using the point of a sharp knife, make a tiny slit all along the back of each prawn and remove any black thread. Now place the prawns in a bowl, sprinkle in the lime juice and Tabasco, toss them around and leave them to marinate for about 15 minutes. At this point turn the grill on to its highest setting.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a frying pan and lightly cook the onions for about 3 minutes before adding the garlic and the chillies, and continue to cook these for another 2-3 minutes. After that, divide the onion mixture between the 4 dishes, then drain the prawns and divide these equally, too.

Next, give everything a good seasoning of salt and freshly milled black pepper, then pour the cream over, followed by the cheese scattered on top. Now put the dishes on a baking sheet and place under the grill about 4 inches (10 cm) from the heat. Grill for 5-6 minutes, until the prawns turn pink and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Serves 4 as a starter or 2 for a lunch Sarah Mellersh runs One Day, Two and Four Week Cookery Classes, just 10 minutes from Perth.

To find out more :

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www.letscookscotland.co.uk Tel : 07932 642605

O U R FA R M SHOP

Castleton Farm is a family run business owned by the Mitchells.

The family bought the farm in 1992, inheriting a soft fruit crop of 15 acres. In 1999, the family took the decision to stop dairying to increase the soft fruit production to a commercial scale. Since then the acreage and production has grown each year to the current 102 acres of strawberries, 20 acres of raspberries, 60 acres of blueberries and 15 acres of cherries. The fruit is supplied

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Castleton Farm Shop

to multiple retailers, with the majority of the fruit going to Marks & Spencer, Tesco and ASDA. The Mitchells began farm retailing in 2004 when Castleton Farm Shop was established in the old filling station in the village of Fordoun. For the next 4 years, the shop was open seasonally from June until October with the range of produce being sold increasing each year. In 2008, a purpose built establishment was

opened at the end of the farm road, boasting spectacular views over the Howe of the Mearns.

The shop stocks delicious local produce, fine foods, gifts and more. The cafe proves very popular with a wide variety of dishes, ranging from breakfast, light lunches, paninis, salads, and an extensive specials board and desserts. In 2013 the cafe and shop was extended due to continued customer demand.

The number of seats in the

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cafe nearly doubled from 55 to 100. A second kitchen was added on which houses the production of the Berrylicious Jams, Chutneys and Sauces and all the homebaking and ready meals made for the shop. The Berrylicious Jams picked up a Silver Award in the Grampian Food Innovation Awards in 2013.

The Shop and Cafe is open 7 days a week Mon – Sat 9 – 5 and Sunday 10 – 5. The website is www.castletonfarmshop.co.uk

TOPIC

Rural charity celebrates fundraising success RSABI Great Glen Challenge 2016 has raised over £50,000 for Scotland’s rural workforce Scotland’s rural charity, RSABI is celebrating following confirmation that its Great Glen Challenge event, held at the end of August, has raised £50,146, thus exceeding its fundraising target once again. The popular event has raised over £178,000 in total since it was established in 2012, with support from 328 rural competitors representing 83 company teams in total.

This year’s Great Glen Challenge event, sponsored by Ledingham Chalmers, solicitors, saw 92 competitors cycle, kayak, walk and run 46km from Fort Augustus to Fort William on 26th August. The Challenge was strongly supported by 23 teams

of four people from across a wide spectrum of agricultural and other land-based businesses and organisations.

Watson Seeds from East Lothian were crowned winners with two teams from CKD Galbraith following closely behind in second and third position.

With £50,146 raised to date, these funds will help RSABI provide financial assistance and support to people struggling to cope from agricultural and other land-based industrial backgrounds throughout Scotland. RSABI currently helps over 900 people across Scotland at an annual cost of around £600,000.

RSABI’s Paul Tinson said: “We are once again delighted with the total amount raised, and my colleagues and I thank all those who took part in Great Glen Challenge 2016, our headline sponsors, Ledingham Chalmers, solicitors, our partner organisations, volunteer stewards and the hundreds of people who have donated so generously up and down the country to our current Fundraising Campaign – Help us help them, aiming to raise £150,000 by next Spring.

“As everyone knows, we are helping an ever increasing number of people throughout Scotland’s rural sector who continue to face widespread challenges. If you, or

someone you know is not coping, RSABI urges you to call 0300 111 4166, alternatively please do call the number to donate to the Campaign.”

Johnny Watson pledged his support for RSABI’s event by entering for a second year in a row and was rewarded with a winning team trophy! He said: “We at Watson Seeds were very surprised and delighted to win this year. A huge effort was made by all involved and the success of the event as a fundraiser for RSABI goes from strength-to-strength. We encourage everyone to consider putting a team forward for the next Challenge event in support of such a worthy cause.”

David Leggat of United Auctions, who is an RSABI trustee, receiving a cheque from Linda Tinson, Director of rural business for event headline sponsor Ledingham Chalmers, solicitors flanked by other key sponsors of the event. The cheque represents all funds raised to date by the teams.

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EU NEWS

By Chris McCullough

Bubble bursts on German biogas industry The once thriving biogas industry in Germany is currently taking quite a hit with no new biogas plants being built in the country.

Due to an unprecedented cut in the price being agreed to new biogas plant operators, it has become financially impossible for farmers and investors to currently build a plant.

While investing in a biogas plant in Northern Ireland and the

Republic of Ireland is currently really just starting to become popular, the bubble has already burst in Germany.

Germany is saturated with biogas plants with around 8,000 of them already operating there. The average size of the plants is 500kW but there are some bigger ones of 1MW in use.

When the craze of biogas plants started in Germany farmers

were being paid healthy prices for the energy produced contracted for 20 year periods.

However, just a few years ago that guaranteed price was deemed to be too high and efforts were made to try and reduce it for any new plants in planning.

Biogas plant operators were also paying high prices to rent land to produce corn silage and were outbidding other farmers

who needed the land for livestock and crop production.

Dr Karl Schlosser is a project manager with the DLG in Germany with responsibility for the huge Eurotier animal production exhibition in November.

He said biogas plants have been in Germany for around 20 years but the building of new plants has come to a halt.

EU wastes about 20 per cent of its food produced Around 20 per cent of the food produced in the European Union each year amounting to some 88 million tonnes, is wasted!

Globally, food waste is thought to consume a quarter of all water used for farming.

Environment Commissioner Karmenu Vella said: “If food loss and food waste were a country, it would be the third biggest greenhouse gas emitter

in the world, after the USA and China.”

Food is lost or wasted across the supply chain. Farmers may discard damaged food, and if the market prices are lower than the cost of harvesting and transportation it may be left to rot in the field.

The retail and wholesale sectors account for five per cent of total food waste. Most goes uneaten, although NGOs such as FoodCycle

in the UK are now using unsold fruit and vegetables to create nutritional meals for the homeless and the elderly.

Consumers themselves account for 53 per cent of the food thrown away across the EU, adding up to around 92 kg per person, per year.

Yet the wasting of food by some belies the poverty of others: according to Eurostat, one in ten Europeans cannot afford a nutritious

meal every other day.

Food waste has become an issue for both campaigners and national governments.

In May, France banned supermarkets from throwing away or destroying unsold food. Instead, they must give it to charity or use it as animal feed, with supermarkets larger than 400 square metres having to donate unsold food or face a fine of EUR 3750.

Over 1800 UK farmers apply for dairy voluntary reduction scheme A scheme offering 150,000 to dairy farmers in the European Union to reduce their milk production has almost been fully subscribed.

Over 52,000 dairy farmers in 27 EU Member States have applied to participate in the scheme, with offers cash incentives to reduce production in the final quarter of 2016, relative to the same period last year.

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A total of 1,849 dairy farmers in the UK have applied for the scheme including 892 in England, 611 in Northern Ireland, 192 in Wales and 154 in Scotland.

EU Farm Commissioner Phil Hogan has welcomed the news that the scheme has almost been fully taken up with 98.9 per cent of applications already registered.

The overall goal is to reduce the milk supply by over one million tonnes in the last three

months of 2016 in a bid to try and stabilise the market.

The Commissioner said: “The scheme has proven to be both very attractive and successful. It fully meets our expectations.

“I am confident that this measure, allied to others included in the July and earlier packages, will contribute further to an already stabilising market situation in the European dairy market.

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“I am particularly pleased at the level of participation among the main dairy producing Member States.”

The volume reductions offered vary from producer to producer, but average 20 tonnes per applicant. In terms of production, this represents an average reduction of 16.5 per cent, which is a 2.9 per cent reduction in total milk deliveries in the final quarter of 2016.

organics Connage Highland Dairy A SOPA Case Study As part of our column in Farming Scotland Magazine, we wanted to introduce you to some of our SOPA certified organic businesses. We’ll be focusing on a different business every time, talking to them about what they do, their produce, and why they believe being Organic is best for their business.

This month we speak to Connage Highland Dairy, who were recently awarded a contract to sell their cheese in the USA under the Scottish Dairy brand.

Based on Milton of Connage farm in the tiny Highland village of Ardersier, Connage Highland Dairy have been producing organic cheese from their dairy herd since 2006.

Connage is a family business in every sense of the word. Owned by brothers Callum and Cameron and their wives Jill and Eileen, they manage the organic dairy farm and the Cheese Pantry between them.

Callum and Jill manage the cheese side of the business, using their years of experience to produce a fully traceable quality end product of multi-award winning cheese.

Cameron and Eileen undertake the majority of the work on the

farm themselves, from breeding and managing the dairy herd to milking them too. The organic dairy herd of 150 cows, mostly Holstein Friesian with Jersey crosses and Norwegian Reds, graze the natural clover pastures around the dairy and along the shores of the Moray Firth.

After realising that they needed to add value to their core product in order for their business to survive another generation, the family decided that making cheese from the milk produced by their organic dairy herd was the way forward.

Connage cheese is sold directly to the public at the Cheese Pantry shop and café, as well as to other British delis, farm shops and specialist shops through a range of wholesalers. They also export to Japan, Singapore, Germany, Switzerland and the USA. The team at Connage decided early on that they wanted to be an organic farm producing organic cheese. The main reasons behind it were welfare as they believe that being organic is kinder to the cows and the farm as a whole, and it gives more customer confidence in animal husbandry. It also works out better for them economically,

as organic milk sells at a better price.

Looking forward the Clarks would like the government to be supporting home grown businesses like theirs, and those of many other SOPA members, by working harder to persuade the public to buy Scottish food.

Despite selling globally and being a multi-award winning business, Connage still have ambitions for the business.

Surplus Connage organic milk is sometimes sold to other Scottish processors which is something

they’d like to rectify. The aim is to move to a position where all Connage milk is fulfilling the demand for their organic cheese.

The team at Connage decided to become SOPA certified as they believe that being a member of the Scottish Organic Producers Association gives them great value for money. The SOPA organic standards are approved by UK and EU authorities, and because they are rooted in Scottish agriculture they show value and respect for our unique climate, soils and our way of producing food.

SOPA (Scottish Organic Producers Association) has been certifying and supporting organic food and farming in Scotland for more than 25 years.

For more information contact Scotland’s largest organic body www.sopa.org.uk tel 0131 335 6606 @ScottishOrganic

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IN

GrainTek (UK) Ltd Scotland’s dryer manufacturer Graintek’s parent company, Addison electrical, founded by Kenny Addison in 1983, was from an early stage involved with the design and production of PLC systems for feed mills, and grain storage plants and eventually in the supply of advanced control panels for grain dryers.

Indeed the company were pioneers in the application of digital technology to continuous flow dryers having since 1987 supplied control panels for drying plants as far afield as India and New Zealand. The company was also involved with control systems for other than agricultural applications including work for the MOD ballasting landing craft, and one memorable project for the oil industry at Murmansk ballasting a huge transport barge during the transfer of an oil rig head weighing 21,000 tonnes with a base covering 2.2 acres onto legs fixed to the sea bed, where level tolerance limits were to be plus or minus 50 mm throughout 4 day’s

40 t/hr Dryer East Lothian

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of tidal fluctuations. In fact the maximum deviation was a mere 15mm throughout the transfer.

Such outstanding work has been recognised by the company nomination along with 13 other British companies to feature in the Parliamentary Review for 2016 GrainTek was formed in 2009 with the objective of designing and marketing a dryer offering a very high degree of automation, combined with low inputs of electrical and fuel energy. The obvious dryer format was as mixed flow design with a positive pulse discharge system.

The control panel of a highly developed design is used with colour touch screen and comprehensive dryer status display, along with pages for external handling equipment with minic, automatic moisture control set up, burner set up, history page giving details of events with date and time, a dryer log with graphic display of drying temperature and

exhaust air temperature at various stages down the drying column with date and time recall. The dryer offers the options of link up to office p.c. for on line for diagnostics and up dates, and for monitoring by smart phone.

To maximize economy the dryer is clad with profiled sheet and all the hot areas insulated against heat loss, and high efficiency Weishaupt 3 stage digital control oil burners are used with fully modulating gas burners optional.

Fans have variable speed control altered from the panel.

This obviates the need for air for noisy and energy wasting air bleed doors when drying light crops.

Moreover when removing small amounts of moisture the fan speed may be reduced so as to operate in economy mode. Cooling doors on Tornado dryers have pneumatic actuators enabling the operator to easily make adjustments from the touch screen. All of the Tornado dryers may be programmed to

100 t/hr dryer at Aberdeen Grain

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operate as continuous flow or as fully automatic recirculating batch dryers.

There are now over 70 Tornado dryers operating in the UK and 11 units operating in Estonia.

The company has developed many innovative options such as a single leg elevator performing both fill and empty functions when continuous drying and a concurrent flow mobile batch dryer.

In 7 years the company has won numerous awards including the 2011 RHS Silver Medal, the 2011 LAMMA Loven Cup for best new product and innovation, and from 73 entries the 2012 LAMMA Maurice High Cup for best new product or innovation, the 2013 LAMMA Certificate of Merit, and the 2014 LAMMA Best New Product or Innovation –Environmental.

“We do not measure our success by the number of unit sales, but rather by the percentage of satisfied customers.”

THE “GRAINTEK TORNADO” DRYER Scotland’s Award Winning Dryer * Continuous or fully automatic batch operation * Capacities 7 to 200 t/hr * Pioneers with plc touch screen digital control panels of our own design and manufacture. * First digital panels for dryers launched 1997. * Heavy duty all galvanised construction with full colour cladding Insulation to all hot areas gives up to 10 % fuel saving * Variable speed fans controlled from panel to optimize air volume for each crop * Positive pulse discharge to handle the wettest crops * Ratio of drying to cooling adjusted by pneumatic actuators for instant changeover to suit conditions * Weishaupt digital 3 stage oil burners or fully modulating gas burners. * Larger dryers with split column option permitting operation with smaller volumes pf grain

GrainTek (UK) Limited Cairnton Road, Boyndie Aerodrome, Banff, AB45 2LR john@graintek.co.uk Tel: 01738 551481

adam@graintek.co.uk Tel: 07825 512908

ATV’s

ATV’s & UTV’s The small and powerful workhorses

Cub Cadet Diesel Utility Vehicle Whether hauling timber, maintaining large grounds or transporting people, the Cub Cadet 4 x 4 utility vehicle has everything you need for versatility and power. The 4 wheel drive can be switched between 2 and 4, on the move, and the Automatic CVT Transmission ensures that there are no gears to worry about. Heavy-duty locking rear differential drives torque equally to both rear wheels, supplying extra power, traction and control in severe conditions. The ISO mounted engine and transmission deliver smooth power, even at the top

end. Furthermore these units are road legal for agriculture use as standard, and they come equipped with a fully approved ROPS roll bar.

With a notable 14.4 cu. ft. cargo box volume, that will carry an impressive 409kg at 25mph, the UTV is ready to work. However, it’s the details that add up to a better ride.

The automotive style half shaft drive design is fully enclosed for maximum protection, whilst 4 wheel hydraulic 8”/20cm disc brakes and dual circuit master cylinder give you sure footed performance with added confidence.

Powered by a 21hp Yanmar diesel engine, the Cub Cadet 4 x 4 runs cleanly, quietly and efficiently.

The direct injection engine produces steady and constant horsepower no matter what the job.

Honda (UK) expands ATV line-up Honda (UK) has extended its range of All Terrain Vehicles, introducing two new models with electric power steering to the line-up in response to customer and dealer demand. The new models, which build upon enhancements made to the Foreman and Fourtrax range launched by Honda last year, are: Fourtrax

The Electric Power Steering (EPS) system incorporates new ECU mapping with the following key features: Improved linearity in steering response, Reduced low-speed steering effort for enhanced manoeuvrability.

Decreased kickback traits for improved all-around steering action

For all your ATV requirements call us now

01334 632561

Yamaha Grizzly 450eps

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Tracker 550eps 4wd

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ATV’s The TRX420FA6 boasts increased capability, comfort and performance, courtesy of notable developments including independent rear suspension (IRS) and dualclutch transmission (DCT), plus

a stiffer, lighter, double-cradle frame and enhanced fuel injection system. The new Electric Power Steering system and all of the recent enhancements are a result of customer and dealer feedback on handling and comfort,

specifically in relation to utility usage. Honda’s aim is to broaden the product offering to provide the most functional and capable ATV range on the market, whilst maintaining its commitment to the highest levels of quality,

durability and reliability. The new models will be available with a two-year warranty from Honda Authorised Dealers. The TRX500FM2 is priced at £7,200 and the TRX420FA6 £6,995 excluding VAT.

John Deere expands Gator range John Deere has added three new models to its ever growing Gator crossover 4x4 utility vehicle range for 2016, including a more affordable mid-size machine.

The Gator XUV 590i and 590i S4 four-passenger utility vehicles are designed for customers seeking a combination of performance and comfort, with a range of customisation and attachment options.

Equipped with a powerful twin-cylinder 32hp, 586cc petrol engine and independent four-wheel suspension, the XUV 590i

can accelerate quickly to a top speed of over 45mph.

Both models are equipped as standard with power steering and an 875W/65A alternator to run auxiliary attachments such as lights, winches and sprayers without the risk of discharging the battery.

Ground clearance is a minimum of 267mm (10.5in) on the 590i, which has a load capacity of 363kg and a towing capacity of 499kg. The S4 version has a ground clearance of 236mm (9.3in), a load capacity of 544kg with the rear passenger seat folded down,

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ATV’s and is also capable of towing up to 499kg.

Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the low noise and vibration levels of these new Gators, which are achieved by isolating the powertrain and utilising sound-dampening material around the engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) intakes.

New MULE SX range shows its PRO credentials Most compact in terms of their engine capacity and physical size, the 2017 model year MULE SX range join their Kawasaki Utility Vehicle stablemates with PRO series inspired updates for the new season.

Offered in two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, the MULE SX machines pack a considerable punch in terms of carrying and towing capacity while enjoying diminutive dimensions that mean they can be transported in the back of many flat-bed vehicles and fullsize pick-up trucks.

Just 1335mm wide and with an overall length of 2710mm, these sturdy work partners enjoy a 181kg cargo capacity in their tipping load beds while a generous 500kg towing capacity is available for those that need to move mountains in rugged, durable style.

In terms of looks, the 2017 model year machines have large volume bodywork inspired by the successful PRO series MULE Utility Vehicles, a new LED headlamp design and operator features such as a PRO style dashboard design and steering wheel configuration which now also includes a handy tilt function.

For operator and passenger alike, the convenience of cup holders and a glove box plus a standard fit DC socket are complemented by capacious under-seat storage and a massive 60 litre front storage area that is easy to access.

Kubota’s robust, efficient and versatile models The RTV range – which includes the RTV-X900, RTV400, RTV500 and RTV1140 models - delivers the perfect blend of power and functionality for year-round performance, whether you’re negotiating steep hills or require a vehicle with generous storage capacity.

The RTV-X900 is positioned as the perfect all-rounder for agricultural professionals, whether you’re looking to move hay bails, transport livestock feed, or trekking across acres of farmland. Offering a smooth ride, exceptional comfort and with

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more legroom than any other model in the range, the RTVX900’s powerful 21.6HP diesel engine and variable hydraulic transmission ensures dependable performance no matter what the weather.

Thanks to Kubota’s advanced engine technology and unique hydrostatic transmission the full RTV range has been designed to deliver excellent acceleration, optimum traction and industryleading hill control. The range is also designed for responsive offroad driving due to the selectable 2/4WD functionality.

ATV’s

The Polaris Sportsman 6X6 Big Boss Polaris, the leader in off-road vehicles, has introduced the allnew Sportsman 6X6 Big Boss 570 EPS to the range. What’s really special about this ATV is its enhanced ability off-road with increased traction, range, capacity, versatility and more.

The Big Boss has a longer chassis than previous models to accommodate more cargo and a second person. It’s unlike any other ATV in that it is specifically designed for customers who demand ultimate traction, massive payload and carrying versatility while taking you virtually anywhere in the most remote locations. The Engine Braking System (EBS) with Active Descent Control (ADC) and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) all come as standard and power is delivered by the highly efficient, liquid cooled,

single cylinder Polaris ProStar engine packing 44 horsepower and plenty of torque. It’s also equipped with a 1.25” hitch receiver and has a 750kg towing capacity.

The Polaris Big Boss is the first 6x6 ATV built for two people and has the capability of hauling exceptional amounts of gear with the industry’s largest payload, a highly configurable Lock & Ride cargo system and integrated front storage, all 25.5 litres of it, plus a rack extender that can carry 41kg.

The Suzuki KingQuad 500 The Suzuki KingQuad 500 offers truly remarkable technology and capabilities to match. Powered by a fuel-injected 493cc engine, which delivers plenty of power and

torque, the KingQuad is ideal for farm, forestry, estate and equestrian work. Both the power steering and standard steering models benefit from selectable 2 and

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4-wheel drive, fully independent suspension and sealed rear brakes, so you can take on steep, wet and uneven ground with complete confidence.

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ATV’s The fully QuadMatic CVT gearbox with a low maintenance V-belt also transfers seamless and smooth power to the wheels for an effortless and comfortable drive, whilst Suzuki’s exclusive T-shaped seat with deep padding and a sculpted design means you can ride comfortably all day long.

As well as all this, Suzuki also offer added benefits with every purchase of a new Utility ATV, such as free EASI rider training designed to help you ride more

skillfully and safely, a two-year warranty for peace of mind and free Datatag security system designed to deter theft. The national network of Suzuki dealers also offer expert support and servicing, and can supply a free Courtesy ATV when your ATV (any make or model) goes in for servicing, meaning your business can keep running.

Suzuki also offer a free workwear kit consisting of overalls and a body warmer, to keep you warm, dry and comfortable when out in the fields.

The Yamaha Grizzly 700EPS Powered by a high-torque engine housed in a durable and rigid chassis, the current Grizzly 700 EPS has made a name for itself as the biggest, toughest and most capable ATV in the Yamaha line up.

Featuring some of the most advanced rider-assist technology in the ATV world, the Grizzly 700 EPS has become popular with many different types of leisure riders and landowners who appreciate its ease of use together with its high levels of comfort, as well as the ability to transport its rider and cargo across extreme terrain where few other vehicles would dare to go.

Fully equipped with Ultramatic® transmission, as well as our push-button OnCommand® drive system and Electronic Power Steering (EPS), this rugged and versatile performer is built to handle the most demanding trails and extreme ‘offpiste’ terrain, as well as being able to take on a range of jobs around the farm, factory or forest.

For 2016 the new Grizzly 700 EPS has been designed to build on the formidable strengths of the current model while also offering

improved style, performance and functionality. Featuring restyled bodywork as well as a more

powerful engine, larger 26-inch wheels and even greater carrying capacity, the 2016 Grizzly 700 EPS

RHS are delighted to announce that we are now Distributors for YAMAHA ATV’s and UTV’s.

These machines come with a 2 year warranty and there are a wide range of machines available.

We are also now Distributors for HANIX Mini Excavators.

These machines are available from 980 KG to 8.3 Tonne and for a limited time come with a 4 Year Warranty.

MACHINERY VALTRA PARTS & MERCHANDISE STILL AVAILABLE AT DISCOUNTED PRICES GOOD USED ATV’s and QUAD’s AVAILABLE

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offers even higher levels of class leading performance, comfort, style and functionality.

IN THE BEGINNING Q1) Where were you born?

Aberdeen, although I grew up as a youngster outside Edinburgh.

It’s hard to beat playing golf at Elie with the sparkling panoramic view out over the Forth and the sound of sky larks on the links.

Q2) What is your earliest memory?

Watching the moon landing as a 4 year old on a tiny black and white television while on an early family holiday in Southern Ireland.

Q14) How is life today for you?

Life was supposed to become more affordable with my three daughters having left school and given up ponies, but the ‘bank of mum and dad’ is still going strong as they move on to their next stages!

Q3) How would you describe your childhood upbringing?

Great fun and active – I loved the outdoors and all kinds of sport. In the 1970s the summers seemed long, warm and particularly conducive to hours on end spent out in the fresh air.

THE INTERVIEW

Q4) How was school for you?

University was never a clear goal at school for me, but I was conscientious and enjoyed most subjects including Geography, History and Science. As ever, it usually came down to who you liked as a teacher. I loved games and usually found myself organising the teams. Individual pursuits such as golf and running were also a passion in my teenage years – I won a few medals but nothing serious.

Your job title: Company Development Manager

up close & personal Your Name: Paul Tinson

Company name: RSABI (formerly known as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution).

What you do for the company?

I’m responsible for developing this national charity, including all aspects of income generation from channels such as fundraising, our supporter scheme, partnerships and donations.

Profile and awareness is crucial too, to our overall mission, so a good deal of effort goes into communications, events and marketing as well as public relations.

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

Off the playing fields I got into The Jam as the band hit the top of the charts in the early 1980s. That said, Paul Weller was a bit of rebel and I never was.

I also had a couple of motorbikes which was great fun and afforded a huge amount of independence.

Q6) Who was the first influence in your life?

I remember watching Andy Irvine at Murrayfield and then later, Kenny Dalglish playing for Celtic, Liverpool and Scotland. Despite both being hugely talented, they seemed to enjoy the experience so much; that was quite inspirational for me.

farm not far from the Pentland hills, I started working on the tatties, far too young! Later I had a part-time job around the farm and was responsible for making up the feed for hundreds of chickens – I can still remember the recipe, as well as the challenge of lumping the sacks from one shed to the next. Not particularly enthralling, but truly an experience of sweat and toil that has stayed with me.

was a coupe style Datsun. I thought I would fail as you couldn’t see behind properly in that vehicle and I was required to reverse downhill and around a bend on the test.

Q7) College, University or straight into work?

I studied Geography for four years at Aberdeen, spending most of my time learning to fly on the University Air Squadron at RAF Leuchars. I did, however, manage to learn a bit about glacial geomorphology which I found fascinating.

GROWING UP Q9) What was your first car?

I bought an Alpha Romeo Veloce Sprint in white with a green stripe for £1750 from a friend in 1988; it had a terrific exhaust note and was quite quick enough for a 23 year old driver!

Q8) Any unusual working experiences from those early years?

Growing up on the edge of a mixed

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

Surprisingly yes. I remember sitting the test in the instructor’s car that

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

No, not really; I’m more of an all-rounder really, but I must say I have gained a lot of satisfaction from doing worthwhile work with RSABI in recent years. It doesn’t so much require talent as hard work and perseverance I guess.

Q11) Can you remember your first love or passion?

I think that was Olivia Newton John was it not? But seriously, I loved aviation as a young man.

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

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Q15) What is the best advice you have been given and would like to pass on to our readers?

I thought Robin Williams, in the movie ‘Dead Poets’ Society’, put it nicely to his charges as ‘Carpe Diem’, translated as ‘seize the day!’

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

RSABI is Scotland’s unique charity for farming and the land-based sector as a whole. Last year we helped over 900 people, contributing around £600,000 in direct financial support, and we are now dipping in to our invested capital in response to the difficult times being experienced.

RSABI helped 688 people during the previous year. In my time with RSABI we have seen our profile develop considerably, witnessed a far greater engagement with the industry as a whole and crucially, for those we help, an increase in funds raised. This year, our flagship event, RSABI Great Glen Challenge has contributed over £50,000 to our overall campaign to raise an additional £150,000 by Spring 2017.

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

I’m a bit too old to be an astronaut; unfortunately, NASA was not hiring Brits when I was in my twenties!

LAST THOUGHTS Q18) If there was a single person (from today or the past) you would love to meet?

Is that ‘single’ in the romantic sense?

If not, I’ve been lucky enough to meet several of my sporting heroes, including tennis legend Jimmy Connors, so I guess I would look to the past and choose Winston Churchill.

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

I’m not too keen on the nanny state!

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Iceland Not just a pretty face

By Fiona Sloan

WORLD FARMING Like Scotland, Iceland’s agriculture is dominated by its climate and ability to grow grass. About 30% larger in land mass than Scotland, its cool climate and long days during the summer, allows the Icelandic famers to grow good quality grass and grain to sustain their livestock during the winter.

Almost half of Iceland’s 103,000 kms2 is barren, with

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another 30,000 km2 made up of icecaps, moss and wetlands, leaving less than 30,000km2 for agriculture with less than 3% of the 0.3 million population working in the industry. While fishing and tourism remain the mainstay of the island, Iceland is self-sufficient in dairy, poultry, pork and lamb and is one of the largest exporters of horsemeat and mink in the world.

Farming throughout the world, is reliant on the resources which the country provides. Since being settled in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Vikings, the people of Iceland have harnessed the natural resources and native animals of the island to great success. As an island nearly 300kms from its nearest neighbour, Greenland, the fishing around the island has been

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most important, resulting in the “cod wars”, over territory with the UK in the 1970’s. As well as sea fishing, there is an abundance of salmon and trout to be found inland and hunting for reindeer, mink , geese and seals is big business and highly important to the sustainability of agriculture in the country.

The native Icelandic sheep

WORLD FARMING are historically hardy animals, living outdoors all winter and until recently, made up around a third of all meat production. The increase in demand for white meat however, has seen a substantial increase in production. Sales of chicken and pork have increased dramatically, to the detriment of lamb production, which had been, by far, the most popular meat in Iceland until now. The native Icelandic cow, is a small dairy type animal and the use of Galloway, Aberdeen Angus and Limousin has improved and increased beef production, although consumption has remained static and large amounts are now exported helping the balance of payments.

The hardy ancient Icelandic horse, has been a great servant to the farmers over the centuries, both as a work horse and a source of meat. Seventy thousand of them still roam relatively wild on the more barren areas, where they are bred naturally, foaling at 4 years of age. They are almost perfectly adapted to their natural environment and are an important export commodity to Belgium and France, as well as being available in many restaurants in Iceland itself. To maintain the purity, hardiness and disease resistance of the breed, it is illegal to bring Icelandic horses onto the island and if they are exported for breeding, they can never come back.

A Tomato Farm that relies on the sun and seawater to produce more than 15,000 tonnes of fruit a year has been officially launched in South Australia

Sundrop Farms sustainable facility in Port Augusta includes four five-hectare climate controlled greenhouses, a desalination plant and concentrated solar power system comprised of a 127-metre high tower and more than 23,000 mirrors to reflect the suns energy.

The $200 million commercial facility is the first of its kind in the world, employing about 175 people and producing

more than 15,000 tonnes of tomatoes annually using solar power and seawater.

A ceremony was held at the plant, which is about 300km north of the South Australian capital Adelaide in late October.

Sundrop Farms Founder and CEO Philipp Saumweber said the Port Augusta development demonstrated the companys unique agribusiness model that benefitted people, planet and long-term, sustainable profits.

The incidence of disease amongst livestock is very low, due in many respects to the lack of airborn carriers.. Most of the diseases, which other European countries monitor, have never been found on Iceland and the government and farming community work together, to ensure this disease free status continues.

The production of mink, introduced around 50 years ago, is also of huge importance to the export economy, as are fox pelts and the famous eider down, which is collected from the native Eider duck by the farmers who protect the nests from predators, ensuring a substantial part of their income.

The fertile soil enables the production of potatoes for around 80 farmers alongside other root vegetables, such as turnips and carrots and the availability of geothermal heat, has formed the basis of a thriving vegetable, fruit and flower industry with tomatoes, cucumbers, nursery plants and cut flowers, grown in large heated greenhouses, enabling the island to be self-sufficient in vegetables.

The beauty of the glaciers and geysers, attract increasing numbers of tourists every year. There is also an increase in agri-tours, where the harnessing of native resources and sustainability shows that Iceland is not just a pretty face.

DuPont Pioneer Opens Innovation-Driven, Multi-Crop Technology Center in Seville, Spain DuPont Pioneer celebrated today the opening of its MultiCrop Technology Center in Seville, Spain. The center’s expert researchers will focus on continuing to increase yields and expanding the Pioneer Protector® defensive native trait lineup, which currently offers solutions for major sunflower pests.

Combined with one of the largest local testing and technical sales specialist network in Europe, this new center uniquely enables Pioneer to better provide growers with the hybrids and technologies most adapted to their local needs.

“The investment in this state-of-the art research center in Seville demonstrates our ongoing commitment to innovation,” said Alejandro Munoz, Vice President, Global Commercial Business, DuPont Pioneer. “The critical work done at the facility will help ensure our customers continue to plant the most advanced products available and achieve sustainable yearover -year yield gain,” continued Munoz.

In cooperation with Pioneer research centers in the region and worldwide, the Seville Multi-Crop Technology Center will focus on significantly accelerating the development of sunflower products

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by leveraging the most advanced breeding technologies and genetic pool. With superior forward breeding and trait integration capabilities, these breeding technologies have the potential to deliver products with twice the rate of yield gain compared to current breeding methods.

“The new Seville research center will enable Pioneer to provide farmers access to the latest innovations in genetic resistance,” said Arlo Thompson, research director, Europe, DuPont Pioneer.

“All this will result in decreased risk of yield and revenue loss, and a reliable yield protection with outstanding crop safety,” added Thompson.

Pioneer invested almost USD 10 million in the Seville research center, which currently employs 16 full-time employees and additional seasonal staff from the surrounding area to support both research efforts and warehousing activities.

The extensive breeding and testing capacity of Pioneer Europe, with more than 100,000 test plots across the region, will allow European customers to plant high-performing sunflower hybrid options for all conditions, including very early maturities and drought prone environments.

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new

to market

New lightweight wellington boots offer warmth, good grip and long life A new wellington boot which is ideal for farm work has been introduced into the Border range by Protecto Ltd, and is available through Dairy Spares.

Called Challenger, the new boot is made of flexible but tough polyurethane, and has an antislip sole. Challenger boots are very light in weight and will keep feet warm down to temperatures of -30°C! Their ability to resist corrosion from chemicals means

they can last three times longer than conventional PVC rubber boots.

A full safety boot with steel toe cap and mid-sole moulded smoothly into the boot is also available, and is lighter than many non-safety boots.

The unique design of the Challenger includes an ankle support, and the presence of an innovative tab above the heel makes it easier to take off. The tyre

tread design on the sole allows easy cleaning and provides good grip especially on concrete flooring.

Challenger boots are available in UK sizes from 7 to 12. The Full Safety Challenger Boot costs £47.49 plus VAT, and the nonsafety Challenger Boot, £43.89 + VAT. For more information on Protecto Ltd’s polyurethane Challenger boots and range of PVC Border boots, farmers can

contact Dairy Spares on 01948 667676, or visit the company’s new website www.dairyspares.com.

Merial launches ‘ClearStride’ range of hoof health products at UK Dairy Day

Merial Animal Health has launched ClearStrideTM, a range of hoof care products to help improve hoof health and mobility in dairy cattle. The range includes three products; a hoof bath, hoof spray and topical 32

gel, which were unveiled to dairy farmers at UK Dairy Day on the 14th of September at Telford International Centre.

Merial Animal Health’s Veterinary Adviser Sioned Timothy says: “Up to fifty percent of dairy cows in a herd may experience mobility problems in any 12-month period, with lameness and poor mobility impacting significantly on the health and productivity of the herd. Initial costs of lameness have been estimated at £323 per case1 and lame animals may also experience reduced

dry matter intake, reduced milk yield and reduced fertility.

Ultimately, poor mobility and lameness incidences increase the likelihood of a shortened productive life within the herd.”

Making simple changes to herd management practices can greatly improve the situation and help reduce the incidence of lameness on-farm. These changes include implementing a pro-active hoof trimming strategy, ensuring a high standard of cow comfort and monitoring cattle regularly to identify lame cows early and ensure that they are promptly and appropriately treated.

Regular foot bathing with an effective and safe disinfectant solution can help to promote hoof health and may help to reduce the incidence of infectious lameness, such as digital dermatitis. Routine foot trimming and examination can help keep claws in good shape and increase the chance of

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identifying digital dermatitis lesions early in the course of the disease.

Developing a hoof health plan with veterinary input is key to optimising lameness control.

This plan should be practical and simple to implement, and take into account farm level risk factors and management practices.

The ClearStrideTM range includes a hoof bath, ideal for routine use after milking; a hoof spray, which can be applied with a low pressure sprayer to individuals or groups of cattle; and a topical gel with super stickability for use on individual animals post-trimming and on existing foot lesions. The gel remains active even after contact with manure.

The flexibility of the ClearStrideTM range means that the products can be used in maintenance programs as well as on cows with evident lesions. A range of pack sizes make regular use more economical.

AgriScot celebrates 15 years at the top 2016 will see Britain’s number one farm business event celebrate its 15th anniversary, when AgriScot takes place at Ingliston in November. With over 240 businesses present at the event, we believe that AgriScot caters for every sector of the agricultural industry.

For this years’ event, which takes place on Wednesday 16th November at the Royal Centre, we welcome major new sponsors Scotmid Co-operative and NWF as well as existing supporters, including Davidsons Animal Feeds, The Scottish Farmer and QMS.

By Andrew Moir, AgriScot Chairman

Andrew Moir, AgriScot Chairman

I must always point out that it is the continued support of these supporters and our trade stand exhibitors, that ensures AgriScot remains a free event to attend. 77% of AgriScot attendees are farmers, and the majority of the remaining 23% are other agricultural professionals, making it a show that visitors attend specifically to do business.

AgriScot has had continued success over the years, so we’re looking forward to seeing what

2016 has to offer and we’re looking forward to seeing some new faces, as well as the regulars who come back every year!

I am proud of what the AgriScot has become in the past 15 years, the floor space allocated to businesses, products and services has doubled, as has the number of exhibitors at the event, since the show was established in 2001.

The business seminar programme has grown significantly over the

years, with the NFUS political debate, traditionally featuring a head-to-head between union big guns and Scottish Government Ministers, and further seminars on topics from renewable energy to rural law, becoming star attractions of AgriScot.

The live demonstrations of beef cattle handling and management techniques, and packed machinery halls also draw big crowds.

As in previous years, there are a number of accolades

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that will be awarded at AgriScot 2016, including the Business Skills Award, Product Innovation Award, and the Scottish Beef, Sheep and Dairy Farm of the Year Awards.

For more information about AgriScot and what’s going on in the lead up to the event, you can find AgriScot on Facebook and follow @AgriScot on Twitter, using the hashtag #AgriScot.

We look forward to seeing you at Ingliston on 16th November.

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Four top farms head to head Four top holdings are set to go head-to-head as the competition for the AgriScot Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year Award reaches its final stages.

Following the announcement of the top 20 back in September, the performance factors have been assessed, the tough decisions have been made and AgriScot have now announced the top four farms in the running.

Jimmy Goldie, of Carrs Billington and the official assessor for the AgriScot Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year awards 2016, visited the four finalists for an on farm assessment, with the final accolade announced at

AgriScot on Wednesday 16th November.

Mr Goldie had the difficult task of selecting the top four purely from performance details related to their breed averages such as calving age, calving index, somatic cell count, yields and longevity within the herd without seeing any names or addresses, and is now looking forward to visiting the farms to study everything from calf rearing, sire selection, practical management techniques, feeding and nutrition programmes and to view happy, healthy and contented cows.

The top four farms in contention for the Scottish

Dairy Farm of the Year award, in alphabetical order, are: - A Colquhoun Ltd., Dendoldrum, Inverbervie, Kincardineshire - Wm. Hamilton & Son, Meldrum, Blairdrummond, Stirling - K & I Millar & Sons, Trailflat, Lochmaben, Lockerbie - University of Edinburgh, Langhill Farm, Roslin, Midlothian.

Jimmy had the following to say about the four finalists: “I was extremely impressed by the quality of the top twenty finalists, so having to whittle it down to just four farms was not an easy task! All my decisions were made based on the recorded figures

of each herd, and it was only when I had decided on the final four that I was given the names.”

“We know from the milk recorded figures that these are four extremely good farms, it will be very, very interesting to see who takes the crown.”

Average performance figures for the top four are 467 cows 11229 litres in 305 days at 3.8% fat, 3.2% protein, calving age 24 months and calving index 387 days.

The Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year award is kindly sponsored

by Cogent Breeding Ltd. Look out for the announcement of the winner in the main ring at AgriScot.

£1000 prize for skilled young agri-business person The AgriScot Business Skills competition is open to anyone aged between 18 and 25 on the day of AgriScot (16th November) and there is a £1000 prize, courtesy of sponsors, Biocell Agri, paid to the eventual winner.

Andrew Moir, AgriScot Chairman comments: “The competition has been very well supported in previous years by students, particularly those from SRUC.” “SRUC staff are also instrumental in organising the competition and we have also had great support from SAYFC.” “However, the competition is open to anyone, they might

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be a student studying a nonagricultural course, someone studying outwith Scotland, or perhaps a young person who is already in-work on the farm or in another ancillary career.”

Alec Ross of Biocell states: “I think the AgriScot Business Skills competition plays a significant role in helping to equip our young people to meet the challenges of our industry.”

“Initially entry is simply a matter of submitting a CV and writing a short answer to a question pertaining to the industry. From there, regional entrants are invited onto a farm to spend a few hours with the host farmer and a judge

discussing various aspects of the farm business.

“Ultimately we whittle entrants down across the

regions to four finalists who compete at AgriScot for the award and its £1000 cash prize.”

AgriScot plays host to once of the best shows of dairy cattle anywhere in the British Isles

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“It might all sound pretty scary, but not one finalist I’ve met has ever regretted entering the competition, and one of my great privileges is watching how these young people develop. I suspect they’d have made a go of their careers anyway, but it’s lovely to think we had a small part to play.”

“Our first winner, Ian Christie, managed to secure a tenancy near Lumphanen. The runner-up that year, David Hurst, went on to manage 1000ac of cereals and 3 suckler herds. Sara Sands, from Inchture, who won a couple of years back, spent the money on a plane ticket to Australia, where she worked and studied.”

2015 Winner Claire Simonetta of Ulva Ferry on the Isle of Mull comments: “I personally found the competition an excellent event to challenge my skills and demonstrate my passion for the agricultural industry to a panel of fair and friendly judges who rewarded me

with useful feedback on my strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to work on and broaden my knowledge. It has also given me the confidence to challenge my skills further by successfully taking part in more competitions and shortly after winning the Award, I was also offered a job!”

Silage surprise Will your 2016 silage be a succulent starting point for your livestock rations or a not-sosweet roughage to chew through the winter?

Back in September, with livestock farmers up and down the country looking to sample and assess the quality of silage in bale-stacks, pits and ag-bags, the AgriScot team called for producers to share their analysis results.

A total prize package worth £4000 is up for grabs, thanks to sponsors, Watson Seeds Ltd.

“2016 was certainly a mixed bag in terms of the grass growing season, it will be very interesting to see how this has affected silage crops,” commented AgriScot silage comp organiser Andrew Best.

“However I suspect that, despite the vagaries of our weather, there could be some very, very good silages around this year and we aim to have some top class samples and analysis reports on show at AgriScot.”

AgriScot 2015 once again saw busy machinery stands

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The competition is divided into 3 sections, with a class for 1st cut clamp silage, a class for baled silage from any cut and a young farmers class for 1st or 2nd cut clamp silage.

South West Scotland came up trumps in the 2015 competition with the top 3 1st cut clamp silage, the top 3 young farmers samples and the top 2 big bale samples all coming from that area.

The Ramsay family from Lodge of Kelton, Castle Douglas, took home the prize in the hotly contested 1st cut pit class with a silage of 34.6% dry matter, 15.9% crude protein and a digestibility value of 75.9.

Michael Yates from East Logan, Castle Douglas topped the young farmers section with a prize winning sample, from silage cut on 18th May 2015, recording

a dry matter of 30%, crude protein of 17.1% and overall digestibility value of 75.9.

In the big bale silage section, John Watson (no relation to sponsors) submitted the winning sample from silage baled on his unit at High Mark, Leswalt, Stranraer on 1st September. This was the latest made of all the top placed silage samples across the competition classes and analysed

as 46.7%DM, 15.7%CP and 69.1D. The 2016 silage analysis reports were shortlisted and then judged as fresh samples by independent judge Hugh McClymont of the Crichton Royal Farm, Dumfries. The winning samples will be on display at AgriScot when the prize presentation will take place.

New headline sponsor…

Thanks to the continued support sponsors and trade stands, AgriScot remains a free event to attend. Please take a moment to visit the sponsors page of the AgriScot website: http:// agriscot.co.uk/sponsors/ The AgriScot Directors are delighted to announce two major new sponsors for the 2016 event; Scotmid, the Edinburgh based co-operative business with 350 retail outlets across

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Scotland, Northern Ireland and Northern England, will be a headline sponsor of AgriScot 2016.

Andrew Moir, AgriScot Chairman, welcomed the deal: “We are delighted that AgriScot will have a prominent national retailer like Scotmid on board.”

“Sponsorship is always very welcome and it certainly helps us to maintain our free

AgriScot business seminars always prove extremely popular

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entry policy for AgriScot.

However, we also welcome the agreement with Scotmid on a number of practical levels.

Our event seeks to enhance the business performance of Scottish agriculture as a whole, and strengthening relationships with the largest Scottish based retailer will help with that aim.”

Tom Gibson, Retail Marketing Manager for Scotmid Food, commented: “Scotmid now sells more locally-produced food and drink than ever before.”

“We’re always on the hunt for exciting products made right here in Scotland and at Scotmid, it is very important to us that

we support local producers.

Scotland’s larder is bountiful and we enjoy bringing the very best of it to our network of stores.”

“As Scotland’s largest cooperative society, we are proud to be a sponsor of AgriScot and

see it as a key opportunity for us to show our support for the farming community.”

Scotmid co-operative businesses include Scotmid Food, Semichem, Funeral Directors and Post Offices. www.scotmid.co.uk

…and new showring sponsor AgriScot 2016 also welcomes a major new sponsor for the show ring in the form of livestock feed suppliers NWF Agriculture. Covering the major dairy farming areas from Central Scotland down to Cornwall, NWF Agriculture’s main business is the manufacture and supply of ruminant compound feeds and blends.

Announcing the new sponsorship deal, Andrew

Moir, AgriScot Chairman, stated: “I’d like to welcome our new show ring sponsor for 2016, NWF Agriculture.

Having such a big name in the agricultural industry on board is a really positive step for AgriScot, and we’re looking forward to the relationships that will be built as a result.” www.nwfagriculture.co.uk

A vast range of products are on diplay at AgriScot

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Are you positive about sheep?

The main lamb sale season has just completed, and tupping time, when the foundations are laid for next year’s crop, is in full swing.

With thoughts very much focussed on how sheep flocks up and down the country have performed in the past twelve months, now is the ideal time to celebrate achievements, new ideas, hard work and top-class output.

The Directors of AgriScot, established the Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year award aiming to recognise and reward farms and farmers who are positive examples for the wider sector.

Echoing the ethos of a well-known Scots proverb, AgriScot Director and wellknown sheep farmer, Hamish Dykes, explained a bit more about what the award.

“There is a renowned annual crop and grassland competition in the Scottish Borders whose moto is ‘it’s not what ye hae, it’s what ye dae wi’ what ye hae’.”

“This is exactly what the judges are looking for in entries for our Sheep Farm award. It’s not about showing a trophy cabinet full of silverware, or an outstanding pen of lambs or spreadsheet of gross margins – although these things can play a part – it is more about showing how you have worked with the hand you have been dealt, and gone on to achieve the best possible results.”

In 2015, the inaugural year for the Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year Award, Armadale in Sutherland, farmed by Joyce Campbell, was judged the ultimate winner.

Announcing the winner, Richard Blake who represented award sponsors Thorntons Solicitors on the 3 person judging panel, stated: “Choosing the 2015 winner was a really tough job. All four finalists were worthy contenders, and we thoroughly enjoyed visiting each one.

However, in the end it was Armadale that excelled in almost every category on the scoresheet and deserved to be crowned winner.”

Commenting on the win for Armadale, Joyce Campbell said: “I have a very dedicated small team here at Armadale and we were delighted when our farm received the 2015 title.”

“Winning the Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year award has helped raise the profile of Armadale and we have benefitted from increased recognition when we sell stock and in our aims to promote the sheep sector and Scotch lamb.”

AgriScot on social media AgriScot is very active on both Twitter and Facebook, especially at the event and in the days and weeks leading up to the event and immediately afterwards.

Twitter is an especially useful platform for AgriScot visitors and exhibitors to interact and exchange information.

Please follow @AgriScot and use #AgriScot to share your views, find out more about exhibitor’s products and services, discuss seminar

topics and interact with other AgriScot visitors.

AgriScot is the farm business event, established to help your business to pick up the latest business trend, innovative products and useful advice. Discussing, sharing and commenting via #AgriScot can help your business get more out of the AgriScot experience.

The AgriScot Facebook page, Twitter feed and website are also the best platforms for keeping up-to-date with news and information ahead of the event.

A vast range of products are on diplay at AgriScot

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A look at some of this year’s exhibitors Animax

Productivity and profitability has been raised on a Dumfries farm thanks to a programme of trace element supplementation for sheep and cattle.

John and Amanda Paterson sought to improve calving and lambing percentages at Hartbush Farm, the 605-acre farm they run with their children, Stephen and Louise. “An empty cow is nonprofit making,’’ says John. “The

most costly time is when you are rearing a heifer for the first two years to produce a calf so if you can reduce the number of replacements you need, you will reduce costs.’’

Before bolusing with Tracesure Cu/I, there would be around 12 empty cows in the herd each year. Last year, there was just one. “We put 214 cows to the bull and only one failed to produce a calf and that was a cow that had previously undergone a Caesarian delivery,’’ John recalls.

Similar results have been achieved in the farm’s flock of 447 Scotch half-bred ewes; this year all but 12 produced lambs.

“Reducing the number of empty sheep has made a huge difference to us. Halfbreds are not the most prolific but we still scanned at 192%,’’ says John.

At Hartbush Farm, the

Patersons run a suckler herd of 260 Limousin and Simmental crosses. These calve in two blocks, in the spring and summer.

Cows are bolused six weeks before calving. “We are getting less empty cows and calves have got plenty of get up and go, they aren’t lethargic,’’ says John. Cows no longer retain their cleansings and last year 68% of the herd got in calf in the first three weeks.

When it comes to herd and flock health, the Animax boluses have played an important role.

John urges other farmers to give them a go. “Bolusing is a cost worth bearing because of the improvements you get. Try even a batch of cattle or sheep just to see what the difference is. I am sure that you will be very impressed.’’

AB VISTA Maximising dietary fibre digestibility critical to dairy and beef productivity this winter Higher fibre grass silages on many farms mean that dietary fibre could end up accounting for more than 50% of the dry matter (DM) being fed this winter, warns Dr Nicola Walker, AB Vista’s Ruminant Product Development Manager. Maximising energy release from fibre will therefore be critical if bought-in feed costs are to be kept under control.

“Fibre is an essential component in ruminant diets, both as an energy source and for correct rumen function, but it’s also the slowest digesting fraction,” she states.

“It means that anything which improves fibre digestibility has a massive impact on overall feed efficiency, and the milk or growth achieved from all feeds, not just forage.”

Under ideal conditions, the rumen digestibility of plant cell walls – the main source of fibre in the diet – is typically around 65%. But that figure can drop to as low as 35% if low rumen pH, increased outflow rates or delayed microbial attachment

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and colonisation restrict fibre digesting microbial activity.

“Correctly formulating rations to minimise rumen pH fluctuations, retain fibre in the rumen and ensure fibre is available for digestion will be critical this winter,” Dr Walker explains.

“Recent research has also shown that reducing the lag time to digestion by applying the fibre pre-treatment VistaPre-T prior to feeding – which attacks the surface of the fibre to speed microbial colonisation – can raise total mixed ration (TMR) digestibility from 63% to 67%.

“The result is a significant gain in overall feed efficiency, leading to a 4-5% increase in milk yield or beef liveweight gain.”

For more information, contact AB Vista on +44(0)1672 517 650 or info@abvista.com Allfex (UK) Group Regular and accurate weighing and monitoring can offer significant benefits to farm profitability AHDB carcase data shows 43% of finished lambs sold last year failed to meet target market specification.

The beef sector is also being challenged to ensure cattle are marketed at the right weights with some processors introducing limits.

And in the dairy sector fertility, first lactation returns and better use of wormers can all be improved through weighing stock.

Incorporating weighing equipment within existing handling equipment makes it portable and practical to use meaning it’s relatively quick and easy to check weights as a routine management task.

Whilst the market value achieved for finished stock is the most tangible measure of success the mindset of guessing weights - rather than accurately weighing and recording – has the potential to create problems throughout

the business. When drenching or dosing its good practice to weigh at least a proportion of the stock to ensure correct dose rates are administered. Significant variance from recommended dose rates will lead to over / under dosing resulting in wastage or ineffective results respectively.

Regular and accurate weighing and data analysis allows you to make more informed decisions across a range of aspects such as health treatments, rationing, marketing of your stock or breeding decisions.

Many livestock farmers regularly integrate EID tags and stick readers with their handling and weighing kit - making capturing and using the information pretty efficient.

But don’t be put off by the technology! Try and start somewhere - with a relatively basic system building in as much specification as you need over time and as you become more comfortable. It’s about selecting a

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system to suit your requirements and that helps improve your margins.

Come and chat to one of our team about your stock management needs on Stand 45 in the Highland Hall, call Cox and Ritchey on 0845 600 80 81 or visit www.ritchey.co.uk Barrettine Rodents are coming in from the cold.

With harvest completed and temperatures dropping rodents will be coming to your farm for bed, breakfast and evening meal.

The sooner you act the quicker you will get them under control but if you let them get established then it becomes far more difficult.

There are other potential problems if you allow rodents to become established;50% of all farm fires are as a result of rodents gnawing cables Disease risks and contamination of feed or grain stocks

You will need to use rodenticide increasing the risk to ‘non target’ mammals Reducing the risk to ‘non target’ species is a core objective of the new Stewardships rules governing the purchase and use of professional rodenticides which came fully into force on 1st October 2016 The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) has been given the task of developing the UK SGAR Stewardship Regime which is intended to provide assurance to the H.S.E, the body responsible for the regulation of rodenticides, that anticoagulants can continue to be used and their risks brought down to an acceptable level.

CRRU have produced a Code of Best Practice and Guidance for Rodent Control and the Safe Use of Rodenticides which defines measures which, if thoroughly and effectively applied, will permit the continued use of anticoagulants with the minimum adverse impacts on non-targets.

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This situation makes the implementation of risk mitigation measures, and the application of best practice, an absolute imperative for all users.

The effectiveness of Stewardship in reducing wildlife exposure will be closely monitored.

The future of rodenticides, so important in animal husbandry, public health and food hygiene, is now firmly in the hands of their users.

Download the CRRU UK Code at www.thinkwildlife.org or ask your local supplier.

Barenbrug

This November forage seed experts from Barenbrug will be

at Agriscot, offering Scottish farmers advice on how to get more from their grass in 2017.

Visitors to the Barenbrug stand (126) will be able to find out about a new perennial ryegrass variety that will be available in the spring and which is ideally suited to Scottish growing conditions.

Bijou, which was bred in France by R2n and will be available from Barenbrug, gives excellent first and second cut performance.

Offering good disease resistance, it is a natural fit with other grass varieties available via Barenbrug, which are proven to thrive in Scotland. This year, almost a quarter of the perennial ryegrasses on the Scottish Recommended List were developed as a result of a breeding partnership between AFBI (Agri-Food and BioSciences Institute) and Barenbrug.

In addition to advice on specific grass varieties, Barenbrug will be talking to Agriscot attendees about its

Good Grass Guide. This free book explains Barenbrug’s field indexing system – a simple means of benchmarking pasture status that can help farmers grade grass quality and work out how to increase yields and profitability.

Barenbrug’s field indexing system is based on a conditioning index that grades grass on a sliding scale of ‘1 to 5’. The guide explores each index in detail with photographs to aid scoring and advice on remedial work.

There are tips for maintaining healthy, profitable fields; hints for nurturing swards that need work; and guidance on dealing with fields that are past their best.

There is also a worksheet that farmers can use as a field record for their own farm.

Barenbrug is also running a prize draw at Agriscot. Visitors registering to receive a copy of the Spring 2017 edition of the Good Grass Guide could win a hamper of products including grass-fed beef and cheese made

from grass-fed milk. For more information, visit Barenbrug at Agriscot at stand 126.

BDC Systems

New sales manager increases BDC Systems’ sales and profile in Scotland.

Eighteen months on from his appointment as Area Manager for Scotland and the North of England, John Wilson has made significant inroads into increasing BDC Systems’ sales and profile in the region.

As the UK’s leading supplier of grain drying, handling, cleaning, storage, ventilation and mill/mix equipment BDC Systems is able to call on a comprehensive range of machinery from world leading manufacturers.

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BDC’s sales team cover the entire UK and Ireland and has vast experience in designing and planning projects. They work closely in conjunction with a network of local dealers in both agricultural and industrial applications. Based in the Scottish Borders near Melrose, John is well placed to support and develop the expansion of the business in Scotland.

BDC Systems exhibited at AgriScot for the first time last year and was delighted with the level of interest and enquiries that participation generated. This led to a very successful year for the company in the region and also instigated BDC Systems’ involvement in biomass/ CHP projects, developing Wood Chip Drying Floor Systems.

The BDC product range includes BDC SVEGMA Continuous Flow Grain Driers which well proven in all conditions and crops found in Scotland & North England and are available in capacities from 8tph up to 100tph.

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As sole official UK distributor for Skandia Elevator AB, BDC is able to offer a full sales, technical & aftersales support for this progressive Swedish elevator and conveyor manufacturer.

Should you need upgrade or replace your grain drying / handling equipment, give John Wilson call Tel: 07468 698188.

Email: john@bdcsystems.com or visit the BDC Systems stand at AgriScot 2016. Check out our new updated website www.bdcsystems. com.

BD SUPPLIES

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BD Supplies has been established for over 15 years.

Originally being a supplier of Animal husbandry equipment, specialising in Hoof trimming equipment ranging from KVK Hoof Trimming crates to knives and bandages, cattle handling equipment, electronic weighing, ear tags and general agricultural supplies and farming products.

B D Supplies has expanded in the last few years to incorporate Biomass Wood Pellets for the domestic, commercial and equine market. We are fully BSL registered, using ENA1 Plus pellets, offering both bagged and bulk deliveries.

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

At the 2016 Royal Highland show we gained the Gold Award for Technical Innovation with the KVK Hooftrimming crate.

Offering farmers and small contractors a hydraulic foot trimming crush ergonomically designed for the trimmer, lowering user fatigue and comfortable for the cows.

We pride ourselves on being different and like nothing better than being asked for a product which may have been seen abroad or is no longer common to the market place and we can research and find for our customer.

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

Dal-Bo UK

In former days a land roller was used mainly to break clods after

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ploughing and before seedbed cultivation. Much has since changed in both the way we use rolls and the working widths now offered.

With a large proportion of cereals now autumn sown and in many cases, into non inverted stubbles, the roll has become a cultivation tool as well as a consolidator. With the continually changing climate we are often faced with conserving moisture post harvest and firming the ground to reduce slug activity.

At Dal-Bo we now see 12m as the average size of roll sold, with many above this at 14, 15, 16 and 18 meter – this size of roll can very quickly cover large areas and will often carry out a pass between cultivation and seeding.

The size of roll chosen by the customer is generally determined by his tramline widths – 2 passes with the roll to cover the sprayer width – efficiency!

Rolling post drilling has always been the norm, principally

to ensure good seed to soil contact and in areas with high stone content, to try to minimise the chance of large stones becoming gathered by subsequent operations. It was with stones in mind that Dal-Bo developed the patented Snowflake ring that offers far greater support at the circumference making it 6 times stronger than a conventional ring and is offered with a 6 year warranty.

To enhance the job of the roll, many new machines are now fitted with hydraulically adjustable cracker boards that both level and carry out a degree of cultivation – improving the job and boosting efficiency!

Farmplan

Farmplan has been setting the standard in agricultural software for over 30 years. As the UK’s market leading agricultural

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software provider we know farming like no other.

We understand the challenges that farmers are facing every day.

From improving time management and remaining compliant with legal requirements to increasing profits and delivering successful husbandry. Our unique range of agricultural software is designed specifically to meet those needs.

Our business and accounts software, Business Manager, provides complete enterprise analysis as well as managing essential day-to-day tasks, keeping all your records easily accessible and in one place. We also have a comprehensive range of specialist beef and sheep software. Making record keeping, generating inspection reports and linking to your EID devices both efficient and effortless.

Having the right tools to manage your farm is investing in your farms future. Farmplan provides the tools that enable

agricultural businesses to manage every aspect of their business with efficiency and confidence.

With easy-to-use management software and IT services, we specialise in helping rural businesses improve performance, encourage growth and ensure legislative compliance.

We’re dedicated to supporting UK farmers now and in the future, by providing the foundations for agricultural businesses to grow, with on-going support and training options to help you maximise the benefits of using our software.

Come and talk to our team on stand 79 at Agriscot this November.

Giltspur Scientific

Giltspur Scientific Ltd based in Ballyclare, Northern Ireland, was established in 1991. The founder Dr E F Logan OBE, BVM&S, PhD, FRCVS, FRAgS, FSB invented the renowned plastic

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orthopaedic shoe for dairy cows known throughout the world as Cowslips or Sabottines. The shoes have improved the welfare of millions of cows worldwide by reducing the pain inflicted by lameness.

COWSLIPS Lameness is the third most costly disease affecting dairy cows. It decreases feed intake and mobility thus reducing milk yield and profitability. By fitting a Cowslip to the healthy claw of a lame cow, the sore claw is raised and weight is transferred off the affected area. This alleviates pain, prevents further injury and allows a rapid recovery. Feed intake and milk yield levels will return to normal.

Cowslips are available in FOUR sizes: COWSLIPS ORIGINAL – Manufactured in 100% PVC with a unique non-slip raised latticed sole, of sufficient height to elevate a diseased digit off the ground.

Used on Jerseys, Guernseys, Ayrshires and Heifers.

COWSLIPS PLUS – Are longer and wider than the Original, with a length of 130mm. The sole is tapered with a deeper heel, designed to wear more evenly, reduce stress at the heel and take weight off the flexor tendons.

Used on Holsteins, Friesians and Beef breeds.

COWSLIPS XL – Are wider than the Plus shoe and half an inch longer. They have been ergonomically engineered with a rounded moccasin toe for extra comfort and fit.

Used on North American Holsteins and for large/abnormal claws.

COWSLIPS DOC – Are 5mm wider and 14mm longer than the XL shoe. The Doc was developed in response to market demand for a wider and longer shoe. Used when extra width and length is required and can be used on bulls.

For enquiries, contact Giltspur Scientific Ltd: Tel: +44 (0) 28 9332 2040 Kongskilde

A larger stand for 2016 will witness a bigger display of product at this year’s Agri Scot event. Now under the one brand

name, Kongskilde, machines from both the soil line and grass conservation and feeding lines will be on display. Kongskilde ploughs by Overum in the new Red/Grey colours will be joined by a front hopper with press wheels mounted underneath; a modification by a Scottish dealer for local requirements.

The Kongskilde front hopper is a popular machine in Scotland as its overall weight is compatible with the most popular type of tractors used for once pass drilling without the gross weight being over powering for a drilling combination.

The grass conservation line will be headlined by the FCT 1260 trailed forage harvester which was introduced this season. With its tall chute, finding the Kongskilde stand will be easy! Sporting a 2.60m pick up and 3,0m transport width, this new Forage Harvester is designed for tractors up to 300hp the FCT 1260 fits in between the FCT 1060 and FCT 1460. A trailed heavy-duty 3.20m GMT mower conditioner will be on display in Scotland for the first time featuring easy too, free adjustment of all major settings.

Available in trailed offset and centre pull (reversible operation), the GMT series is a real high capacity mower conditioner and is even more efficient with a Collector conveyor which can be fitted to group swaths while mowing.

Rounding off the display will be a VM vertical mix diet feeder which are now well known in the UK for

their fast and thorough mixing capabilities. New additions for 2016 are the Mix + stainless steel auger edge, hydraulic height adjustment via a novel drawbar arrangement and an option for a 3 speed gearbox for the larger 3 auger models.

Krone UK

Krone UK Ltd, are a leading supplier of hay and forage harvesting equipment who understand that forage matters As a leader of innovation Krone UK Ltd will be exhibiting at this year’s Agriscot Show a range of machines demonstrating their understanding of how Krone machines can help you produce affordable quality forage. On display will be a selection of Krone grass harvesting machinery featuring a selection of industry leading features such as the SafeCut disc protection system for mower beds. The lift tine for Swadro rakes, designed to collect the crop at a higher work rate whilst minimizing crop contamination. Plus the award winning Comprima round baler with its EasyFlow camless pick up for the best crop collection, Novogrip baling system producing perfect bales and the SmoothRide tandem axle for the smoothest ride.

To find out about Krone’s special show offers or for more information on the full product range please come along and visit the Krone stand.

Kubota UK

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Kubota UK is set to celebrate its ever-expanding agricultural machinery range at this years Agriscot show.

Taking centre stage on this year’s stand will be Kubota’s M7001 series, the cleanest, most technical and powerful tractor the company has ever built. Manufactured to fulfill the stringent requirements of large-scale upland farming across the European and North American agricultural markets, it is available in three models from 130HP to 170HP. Powered by Kubota’s worldrenowned engine technology, the M7001 is fitted with a powerful V6108 engine with full Stage IV compliance, including DPF and SCR technology to clean up emissions, resulting in a cleaner, more environmentally friendly tractor.

The introduction of these new higher horsepower tractors marks the beginning of the next phase in the company’s continued progression up the horsepower categories, which is key to company’s wider goal of becoming a leading brand in the sector over the next decade.

The M7001 Series complements the brand’s existing agricultural product range, which includes its L and GL Series, MK Series, M60 Series and MGX Series tractors; in addition to a comprehensive selection of Kubota-made attachments.

Kubota’s complete product range is supported by the company’s first class aftersales service and added value packages, which includes competitive Kubota Finance, extended warranty and Kubota Care.

The company has invested significantly in growing its agricultural product range in the last few years. This follows an investment by the Kubota Corporation of over 40million in its European tractor production facility, which will result in the production of over 3,000 tractors a year by 2017 and further increase the brand’s already impressive global pedigree.

In line with the company’s global ambitions to grow its

agricultural division, Kubota has also made some key acquisitions in the last two years, firstly with the purchase of the Kverneland Group in 2014 and most recently with the acquisition of Great Plains in spring 2016.

For more information, visit www.kubota.co.uk Kuhn UK

Kuhn Farm Machinery will be displaying a selection of equipment from its grassland, livestock and arable ranges at this year’s AgriScot show, with the latest version of its film-onfilm baler-wrapper combination amongst the machines being displayed at the event at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston on Wednesday 16th November.

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The following Kuhn machines, as well as a PROFILE trailed feed mixing wagon and POLY-LONGER hedgecutter, will be on display.

The iBIO+ features Kuhn’s new twin film-on-film wrapping system which offers reduced wrapping costs and easier plastic recycling.

This unique film binding system uses two film reels to bind the cylindrical side of the bale and offers several advantages compared to other film binding systems, not least the ability to use standard sized rolls (25 µm, 1500 m, 750 mm) therefore eliminating the need to order separate binding and wrapping film. The KUHN system also boasts quicker and easier roll loading thanks to a user-friendly system which hydraulically folds the film reels into their loading/ unloading position.

Bale wrapping is taken care of by Kuhn’s IntelliWrap system which gives complete control of the wrapping process, allowing the operator to select the number of film layers and to adjust film overlap.

The i-BIO+’s highspeed wrapping ring allows film to

be applied at up to 50 revolutions per minute and produces wellshaped, tightly sealed bales for improved crop preservation.

Landini

The Landini tractor range continues to grow as new and improved models, elevate the products beyond the ‘stockman’s tractor’ for which they are best known.

Landini line-up now takes in the 4 Series, a range of seven small but highly capable tractors in two sizes with power outputs from 64hp to 107hp.

5-D Series (85-102hp) with new transmission options, and the return of a high clearance version for specialist growers.

The 5-H Series (85-113hp) has more hydraulic flow, a larger fuel tank and a new, more spacious cab with larger

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glass area that is shared with the 4 Series tractors.

Landini 6C Series spans 111hp to 140hp for one thing; and as an alternative to the standard spec, buyers can opt for the ‘LS’ version. This comes with larger wheels and tyres, load sensing hydraulics, and front axle and cab suspension, plus 40 Eco and 50kph transmission options.

With power outputs from the 4.5-litre engine give the Landini 6L Series tractors 143hp, 163hp and 176hp, coupled to the familiar TopTronic transmission. Front axle suspension is now available as an option.

New 6 and 7 Series “Active” models catering for farmers who prefer a simpler set up to that of the existing Dynamic specification. All three, 4 cylinder 6 series models rated at 143hp. 160hp and 175hp and selected 6 cylinder models including a new 152hp rated version from the 7 Series are available in the “Active” spec.

Most notable differences are in the cab which sees armrest

controls moved to a fixed rh console. Gear pump hydraulics are standard, but for more demanding applications, a piston pump can be chosen boosting hydraulic output to 123litres/min.

Major Equipment

Major Equipment Ltd will be returning to AgriScot 2016 with a 2.5m and 3.0m Cyclone Mower.

The award winning range of Cyclone Mowers has been designed to do the work of a flail mower but requires a fraction of the power and fuel that a flail mower would consume.

These machines are strong, rugged and robust; specifically designed for use in set-aside,

forestry margin management and sensitive environmental scrubland control. This machine easily copes with the toughest of conditions including shrub, saplings, gorse and brush. It is ideal for the clearance of arable stubble, maize and rapeseed crops.

Major will also have a 2670 Alpine LGP tanker on their stand. The Alpine tanker design is based on the contractor LGP specification, but with a dropped axle to give a low centre of gravity. This results in less ground pressure than standard axle tankers and minimal ground damage even in wet conditions.

There are three models in this range: 2150, 2300 and 2670 gallons. As with all MAJOR tankers, the inside is baffled to prevent wave motions and improve operator safety.

For more information visit major-equipment.com or call to the Major stand at AgriScot 2016.

McCormick

McCormick has added a fourth 6 cylinder model to its X7 range and now offers “Efficient” specification to cater for farmers who prefer a simpler set up to the existing Premium versions.

All X7.4 series models rated at 143hp, 160hp and 175hp and selected 6 cylinder models including a new 152hp rated version from the X7.6 series are available in the “Efficient” spec.

The Efficient includes 24 speed transmission with 3 mechanical spool valves. Open centre or closed centre hydraulics. Armrest controls are replaced by a more traditional rh console

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McCormick X7 VT Drive – With five models available – a trio of four-cylinder tractors from 143hp to 175hp with pto/transport boost, and a pair of six-cylinder models with 165hp and 177hp for draft work and up to 192hp for pto and transport applications. All use CVT technology from ZF and operating software developed by McCormick manufacturer Argo Tractors.

McCormick X6 Series covers 111hp to 140hp. The ‘LS’ guise featuring variable flow hydraulics (a gear pump is standard on the base model), larger wheels and tyres, front axle suspension and cab suspension.

‘LS’ versions can be equipped with 40 Eco or 50kph versions of the 36x12 speed transmission for improved fuel economy, a quieter drive and reduced journey times.

McCormick X5 covers the 85hp to 113hp sector. Offering a choice of transmission and pto options, is highly manoeuvrable, comes with spacious cab with intuitive control layout.

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X4 Series 64-76hp models are a little shorter and lower than the 90-107hp versions but share the same cab and controls.

The McCormick range will soon be extended further with the introduction of the all new X8 Series. More detail to follow.

McGrath Limestone

McGrath limestone starting quarrying in the 1960’s in Cong mayo in Ireland from high purity reserve of limestone. The quarry extended to the manufacture of stone in 1980. This was supplied to local builders and Galway & Mayo County Council for road works. In 1985 the company expanded again with the introduction of a concrete plant, production begun for ready-mix concrete and concrete

blocks to local builders and the local authorities.1998 once again saw the company expanding as McGraths purchased a Macadam & Asphalt Manufacturing Plant.

Production began and supply and lay contracting of asphalt & macadam is now a feature of McGraths Limestone. In recent times the company commissioned a state of the art limestone fines Filler plant supplying calcium carbonates powders, flours and grits to the glass manufacturing and animal feed industries. We export all of our products all over Europe and have a depot in Clydebank Scotland.

Scotland is a very important market for McGraths as no high quality lime deposits exist there and all high quality lime is trucked by road from down south of the UK. Our Golime is of the highest quality agrilime and gives

superb return for your ton spread compared with the local material and therefore it might cost more but you can put out far less and get the same results and better. High TNV of 99.5% and ENV (effective neutralizing value) of 68-70% which our sales people can explain.

See our brands below available in Scotland Grolime – high purity agrilime Farmcal – cubicle lime hygiene products Slurry Cal- cubicle hygiene and slurry enhancer all in one.

Farmcal – feed grade calcium lime in flour and granular form.

Hiclao – Stabilisation lime Cemfloor – liquid screed additive.

All products are in bulk, 1000kg and 25kg bags.

McHale

McHale will be displaying a wide range of machinery on stand number 172 at this year’s AgriScot show taking place on November 16th. McHale will be showcasing their latest products by displaying the McHale Fusion Vario Variable Chamber Baler Wrapper and the McHale Orbital High Speed Round Bale Wrapper.

The McHale Fusion Vario is an integrated baler wrapper which consists of a high output variable chamber baler with an integrated wrapping ring. The McHale Fusion Vario offers the contractor or farmer the flexibility to make bales of silage from 3 foot 3 inches up to 4 foot 8 inches silage and bales from 2 foot 6 inches up to 5 foot 6 inch bales of hay or straw.

This also allows the contractor to provide a wide range of services with one machine whilst allowing the farmer to get larger bales if they wish and reduce film costs and time spent collecting bales.

The McHale Orbital Bale Wrapper is a high speed round bale wrapper. The McHale Orbital harnesses the proven vertical 52

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wrapping ring technology used in the McHale Fusion to deliver a high output, low maintenance bale wrapper which is capable of keeping up with multiple balers.

The high-speed vertical wrapping ring can apply four layers of film to a 1.25 metre bale in approximately 18 seconds or six layers of film in under 25 seconds.

McHale will also displaying the McHale Fusion 3 and McHale Fusion 3 Plus from their Fusion Range of Integrated Baler Wrappers. The F5000 Fixed Chamber Balers and V6 Variable Chamber Balers will also be on the stand at AgriScot along with a selection of round and square bale wrappers. The C460 range which is the most recent range of Silage Feeders & Straw Blowers from McHale will also be present on the stand.

McVeigh Parker Clipex Fencing changing the landscape.

McVeigh Parker (Scotland) are changing the landscape with the National award winning Clipex all steel fencing system, 50% quicker to erect, over 50% lifetime savings can be achieved.

Already proven on many farms and estates nationwide, MP Scotland have had much success with many high profile projects from the Highlands to the lowlands. They will once again be demonstrating the advantages of this innovative 30 year fence, along with some of the multitude of other products they stock.

MP Scotland is a branch of one of the UK’s leading independent suppliers of farming and fencing materials, landscaping and equestrian supplies.

The company has seven depots conveniently located across the UK with over £5,000,000, worth of stock.

Fast and reliable delivery by McVeigh Parker’s own delivery fleet throughout the UK. By employing a team of highly motivated individuals who have a wealth of experience McVeigh Parker offer an excellent customer service and provide comprehensive advice across the whole product range.

The company has established a highly respected reputation with farmers, local authorities, fencing contractors and government departments.

Penderfeed Penderfeed Livestock Equipment are a family firm offering you a personal, friendly service with over 70 years of agricultural experience, so if you are looking for any items of equipment to help with feeding or handling your cattle and sheep, please contact Peter or Ben Sanderson who will try to supply you with the products which are right for your situation.

We are agents for most major manufacturers and made to measure systems can be supplied after somebody has been to look at the site. Some of the manufactures we can supply include IAE, Bateman, Ritchie, Modulamb, Tru-Test and Kinbroon.

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Electronic weighing and identification are becoming increasingly important, therefore tough, reliable Tru-Test Equipment can be supplied. It is not always convenient to bring the animals in to the farm, but we can offer a variety of mobile sheep or cattle handling trailers which can be taken to the field.

Come to Stand 195, Lowland Hall, at Agriscot to discuss your requirements further.

Polaris

You could save up to £500 on a new Polaris.

Polaris is offering substantial savings with autumn special offers on new Polaris

Ranger utility vehicles and utility ATVs. From Monday 3rd October you can take advantage of a special discount of £500 off the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of a new Polaris Ranger utility vehicle or you can have a discount of £250 off the MSRP of a new utility Polaris Sportsman ATV. Polaris offers the widest choice of proven 4 x 4 utility vehicles and accessories so there will be a Polaris to suit any business users needs from farming to landscaping, local authorities to large estates, in fact anywhere that calls for rugged, dependable 4x4 offroading.

In addition to these offers, members of the NFU, NFU Scotland and Ulster Farmers Union benefit from an additional 5% discount on selected new Polaris utility vehicles. Polaris is a world leader and European No.1 in 4x4 ATVs and utility vehicles, with an extensive

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range that is best viewed at an authorised Polaris dealer who will provide full details of the offers. Offers close on the 30th December 2016. Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polarisbritain.com Pottinger

Whilst harvesting fresh grass and bringing it to the cows is not a new concept, at Pottinger we are continually working to develop a loader wagon based cost efficient zero grazing system that can also effectively harvest the farms silage during the summer months.

The zero grazing of fields can see a vast improvement

in grass utilisation compared to grazing. Research shows grass utilisation in excess of 90% compared to a figure in some cases nearer 60% for grazing. Feedback from users is showing savings of up to 4 pence (5 Euro cents) per litre in production costs (50% based fresh grass diet, 50% TMR).

In the current low milk price market this system can make a real positive difference to dairy farms profitability.

Cutting takes place ahead of the tractor with a 3mtr wide front disc mower with the grass neatly formed into a windrow between the tractor wheels.

The grass is then picked up by the cam controlled pick up which in turn passes it to the large diameter feeding rotor.

Thanks to the patented Easy Move knife bank the knives are simply fully removed allowing full length grass to be collected. The gentle action of the loading rotor ensures the

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structural integrity of the grass is maintained avoiding any decomposition.

A high capacity body allows for fewer journeys from field to farm ensuring the daily cycle of harvesting is kept as short as possible.

The new Pottinger Faro & Europrofi loader wagon “D” models are equipped with rear discharge beaters and a wide cross conveyor belt to allow direct to feed passage feeding of the fresh grass with no rehandling.

You can see the system for yourself on the Pottinger stand in the Highland Hall at this year’s AGRISCOT. Powerwasher Services

Powerwasher Services Ltd are a family business with

3 generations of the family specialising in the supply, hire and maintenance of cleaning and heating equipment throughout of Scotland for 34 years. Any machine purchased from Powerwasher Services Ltd whether it be a pressure washer, Space heater, floor sweeper, scrubber drier, industrial vacuum, compressor or generator comes with their guarantee of a quality product backed up by a service second to none. They have a team of eight service engineers on the road and offer the same or next day breakdown service.

Jack Whitecross who founded the company was a dairyman so he has an understanding of the agricultural market and particularly what is required in the Dairy industry.

Although the equipment has changed over the years with new technology, the pressure washers supplied by Powerwasher Services Ltd will stand up to the

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daily requirements on a farm.

They have a range of products to cover any market from the small croft up to the largest milking parlours, chicken or pig units and they can make bespoke units with pipelines as required.

A product that has taken off over the last 10 years has been the range of Floor Sweepers, these machines are designed to deal with very fine dust as well as picking up debris and have a filter shaker system fitted.

The time of year has come when space heaters are required, so if you need to update your heaters or have your existing ones serviced They are proud to say that hard work, determination and the supply of quality products backed up with their service has stood them in good stead over the years.

So if you are thinking of replacing your machines give Powerwasher Services Ltd a call – 01674 840412

Shelbourne Reynolds

Shelbourne Reynolds will be exhibiting models from both the hedge cutter and livestock equipment ranges. The 660T trimmer model is a new model aimed at both the contractor and the farmer. The 70HP hydraulic system is taken from the well proven 700 series and features twin cast iron high output pumps. The frame is an uprated version of the 500 series frame which brings the total weight for the 6m telescopic model the 660T in at 1650kg which enables it to be safely fitted to most larger 4 cylinder tractors. The 6m

telescopic arm geometry is taken from the HD760T and features 1.2m of telescopic movement making the machine a compact 4.8m when retracted. Control is provided by an electronic proportional joystick system.

The 457 is another new trimmer model, this is based on the 5m reach 450 model but features a longer 5.7m boom, this additional reach makes it a genuine contender as a farm hedge trimmer capable of cutting even the larger hedges. This machine is available with either cable controls or oil proportional joystick controls.

Shelbourne Reynolds have also recently updated their Livestock Equipment ranges, the 3 model cubicle bedder range now incorporates a single piece heavy duty belt running on cage rollers to improve longevity. The CB150 will be on display at the show. The Powermix Plus twin auger range of diet feeders is now available in 16, 18 and 22 cubic metre sizes. The new machine

features a new tub design which improves bale chopping speed, all models are shorter to improve turning access and the 12.5mm thick lower sidewalls improve longevity. Single axle and tandem sprung axle models are available all with Shelbournes proven front mounted webbing conveyor capable of elevating up to 4’ 6” to both sides of the machine.

Teagle Machinery

TOMAHAWK 85 Series “Chief” Premium Edition - Increased Capacity – Increased Output.

Teagle Machinery, the family owned British manufacturing business based in Cornwall, have launched the latest addition to

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their Tomahawk Bale Processor line-up, the 85 Series ‘Chief’.

Teagle have long established the Tomahawk range as the market leader in the UK in terms of product line up and market share. A commitment of 10% of the workforce solely focused on research and development ensures the company continues to produce new models. This strategy enables the company to meet the needs of its large customer base in the domestic market and utilise this experience to secure export business from around 50 countries around the world.

In response to market demand for a bale processor with higher performance, the new ‘Chief’ Premium Range was recently introduced into the portfolio. The 85 series features a 150mm (6’) wider body for easier loading, a wider crossbeater for faster processing, a larger diameter fan to blow straw up to 25m (80’), as well as Hardox in the fan housing for greater durability.

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In addition, it has a generous specification that includes high sides to minimise material spillage, large 12.5” wheels with mudguards and lights as standard.

The Chief also features a robust but slimline control panel in the tractor cab that communicates with the machine utilising the latest Bluetooth technology.

The 85 Premium Series comprises 2 models, the 8500 for straw and silage, and the 8550, fitted with a unique scissor action chopping system (with an impressive 64,500 chops per minute) producing “precision cut” straw, ideally suited for Dairy Units to process low energy precalving rations and effective fibre for TMR. All Tomahawk box type models include attractive 0% finance options and 2-years warranty as standard.

For more details call the Teagle Sales Desk 01872 560592 or visit www.teagle.co.uk Thornton’s Thorntons’ Land and Rural Business Team – Sponsors of Agriscot Sheep Farm of the Year Whether you are a farmer or landowner or you run a

business in the rural sector, Thorntons can provide solutions to meet whatever you challenge or opportunity you are faced with. Their experienced Land and Rural Business team have between them over 250 years of experience in delivering bespoke legal advice. They can guide you through the traditional areas relating to the rural sector whilst also having detailed knowledge of newer developments like diversification and renewables.

The team understand the needs and frustrations of rural businesses and can deliver practical solutions to problems and help you to make the most of new opportunities. They have an in-depth knowledge of all the issues affecting the rural sector so that they can make sure you are always one step ahead.

Once again, Thorntons are the sponsors of the Sheep Farm of the Year Award at Agriscot.

It is the second time that sheep farmers will be honoured with their own award at the prestigious event, and Thorntons is honoured to be able to support the competition again.

Kenneth Mackay, head of the Land and Rural Business team at Thorntons, said: “We have long-standing links to the agricultural sector and it is wonderful to be able to play a part in highlighting the excellent work being carried out in the sheep farming industry in Scotland. Our team are involved in the judging process so have been able to see at first hand the innovation and commitment displayed by those in the sector.”

Trouw Nutrition Trouw Nutrition, a global leader in innovative feed specialities, premixes and technical services for animal nutrition, will be exhibiting at Agriscot on stand 223.

The focus will be in 3 main areas: firstly in preparation for the forthcoming lambing season, Trouw Nutrition will be highlighting their Milkivit® range of lamb and kid milk replacers. They are specially designed to contain carefully selected dairy products offering outstanding performance and economy on all restricted systems and through most automatic feeders.

Secondly, they will feature their Maxcare® mineral range which has been formulated to help meet the requirements of livestock managed on a wide range of systems, providing high quality, well-balanced nutritional solutions. Trouw Nutrition uses the latest research and up to date forage mineral analysis to formulate Maxcare farm minerals, helping farmers to get the best performance out of their livestock.

Finally they will focus on Farm-O-San® Pulmosure; a complementary feed for calves containing an essential oil that supports breathing and clearing of the airways. Farm-O-San Pulmosure also contains a natural form of vitamin E and organically bound selenium in order to support the immune function.

V-Mac Silos

At this year’s Agriscot the V-Mac Silo team will be displaying meal meal silos and tote bins. Safely storing animal feed is an ongoing concern for farmers in the Bord Bia Quality Assurance scheme or other QA programmes. They have to keep feed safe, secure and free from contaminants. It also makes good economic sense to protect valuable animal feed from vermin and spoilage.

However animal feed now contains a more complex range of additives so in certain conditions these reacts with the coating of traditional galvanised metal. This can significantly reduce the life span of an expensive animal feed silo.

So McAree Engineering are changing the material they use to manufacture V-Mac Silos.

Going forward, all their animal 58

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feed silos will be manufactured from MagiZinc an innovative Chromium free alternative to traditional galvanised material.

MagiZinc has been extensively tested by their metal supplier Tata Steel (see PPT). MagiZinc delivers outstanding corrosion protection compared to conventional galvanised zinc coating.

This very high protection performance has also been proven in rigorous, independent tests at the University of Kalsruhe in Germany.

After carrying out their own tests McAree Engineering are delighted to be the first silo manufacturer in Ireland or Britain to use this new material.

All silos ordered at Agriscot will have the silo body, cone and lid manufactured using this material.

At Agriscot V-Mac Silos are also launching their new Cone Access Hatch (see attached photo).

The size of the access hatch on the cone has been increased by 28% so this will make it easier to open and for the farmer to access the silo.

The hatch incorporates two PVC handles which makes it easy to use.

V-Mac Silos will also be distributing their leaflet on “Managing the Safe Delivery of Animal Feeds” More info also on their range of market leading feed silos, tote bins etc. can be seen on YouTube at www.vmacsilos.co.uk Vogelsang

Vogelsang, world market leaders in application systems, designed and built the first dribble bar back in 1985 over 30 years ago, slurry or digestate are valuable commodity’s and need to be treated like fertiliser, that’s why we have designed the most accurate distributer on the market, Vogelsang`s ExaCut has

a C of V (coefficient of variation) below 15%, allowing the liquid to be applied as evenly possible through the width of the applicator, from 6m to 36m the Vogeslang technology gets the best out of your crops.

Vogelasng has a range of dribble bars to suite any application method, one of the most common in the UK being the Backpac range, we start the range from 7.5m up to now 30m in width, fully galvanised steel main frame, full hydraulic solenoid control on selected models allowing levelling, half side shutoff, auto reverse and hydraulic opening functions from the cab, Vogelsang pulling arm can be supplied in 4 or 5 inch, flow meter and application monitor are also compatible and can be supplied to the customer’s needs.

For any further information please call Sion Williams 07817 986561 Walter Watson

This is achieved using 2 double acting rams and a clever locking system for each position, also our 3m Spiral Blade Aerator has brought a machine that combines weight and speed of operation to the user. With soil compaction a constant issue, the aerator gives the farmer of today the opportunity to maximise production from the farm.

With the need for increased production from the land today and the unpredictability of the weather, farms everywhere are experiencing a need for a reliable machine which allows for quick operation and minimal maintenance. With that in mind the machines produced by Walter Watson are robust and suitable for constant hard work even in tough conditions.

The wide range of feeding equipment offered accommodates all farm sizes; from silage feed trailers to meal feeding equipment for both sheep and cattle. All Watson equipment is available through a network of dealers throughout the UK. Yara UK

Based in Co. Down, N.Ireland, Walter Watsons is a family owned firm with almost 50 years’ experience in manufacturing agricultural equipment. The agricultural machinery has become renowned for its design and construction which is without doubt one of the heaviest on the market.

Best known for Water Ballast Land Rollers, over recent years the product range has been extended both in the feeding and roller equipment. The product range includes Folding Cambridge rollers, 6.3m and 8.3m versions, with the option of shatter boards and air seeder, water ballast land rollers from 5ft to 21ft with hydraulic wheel kit and folding options. The most recent addition to the product range is the Rotating End Tow roller, which illiminates the need for the driver to leave the tractor seat when transferring from transport to rolling position.

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Fertilizer has always been a safe investment.

Applying the optimum level of nitrogen will return a healthy yield and good quality grass, whether you’re growing it for grazing purposes or looking to reduce feed costs through better silage management.

But Yara’s Booster Range of fertilizers will also look after the health of your livestock with added selenium. You are what you eat is as relevant to livestock as it is to human beings, so if you can be sure the minerals your livestock need is in the grass to begin with, you can reduce costs in adding nutrients to the feed as well as reducing your reliance on vets; prevention is better than cure!

Soil samples over the last few years have shown that Scottish soils are around 90% deficient in selenium, resulting in low levels in the herbage.

Selenium deficiencies cause a range of health problems in livestock, including infertility, mastitis and nutritional myopathies in young stock.

Selenium applied in the fertilizer increases selenium uptake by the grass and its availability to livestock whether grazed or in silage.

Yara has developed and formulated the Booster range of grassland fertilizers to address nutrient deficiencies: Super Booster (25-5-5+Se) and Nutri Booster (25+5 So3 +Se) for grazing and Silage Booster (205-15+ 7.5 SO3 +Se).

All are quality true uniform compound products avoiding segregation of individual nutrients in the hopper that can lead to loss of yield. All are formulated with sodium selenite

bringing the added benefit of improved grass palatability, digestibility and uptake from the sodium. Nutri Booster and Silage Booster contain sulphur to increase yield.

Come and hear more about the Booster range and discuss your fertilizer needs on Stand 60 at Agriscot.

Zoetis

Productivity gain from pneumonia protection validated at AgriScot.

Clear evidence that farmers value calf pneumonia vaccination for its impact on lifetime productivity was found at AgriScot 2015. Among 101 farmers surveyed, 41% were between 80% confident and ‘certain’ that vaccinated calves had better lifetime performance than unvaccinated ones, with

another 32% expressing confidence of 60-80%.

Whether destined for the dairy herd or finished beef, suckled or reared, a calf that doesn’t grow effectively in the early weeks is often unable to catch up later, according to Zoetis vet Carolyn Hogan.

“Good respiratory health is essential to ensure they grow to their full potential and are able to deliver to their maximum,” she says. “Yet an estimated 67% of pneumonia cases occur in calves less than three months of age.”

Financial gains still to be had from herd fertility improvement When dairy farmers were surveyed in 2008 about herd fertility, nine-out-of-ten wanted to reduce calving interval by 19 days on average, from 398 to 379. In their own estimation at the time, this was worth £57/ cow/year or £9,345/year in the average 163-cow herd taking part.

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In pursuit of this, 40 per cent said they would welcome more involvement of their vet, while 50 per cent said this was already happening. Among farmers who had made successful changes before the survey took place, the most commonplace were greater involvement of their vet and/ or nutritionist, better dry cow nutrition and more observation of cows.

Since that survey however, the national average calving interval has remained resolutely above 400 days, according to Zoetis vet Dr Jude Roberts.

“Even though improving herd fertility is clearly not easy, the financial gains make it worth striving for,” she says.

At AgriScot 2016, the Zoetis team will be available to discuss how to help protect the respiratory health of calves as well as herd fertility improvement and we look forward to seeing you on the day.

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16th November 2016 Get along to AgriScot AgriScot is THE farm business event – for all farmers, across all sectors and from all corners of Britain and beyond.

AgriScot is growing year on year. 2015 again saw a huge attendance of 11,500 farmers and business professionals. This year the event will feature over 250 trade stands and a machinery hall packed with the latest information, innovation and advice to help today’s farmers get the most from their business AgriScot has free entry, free parking and a full programme of free to attend business seminars.

AgriScot features of Britain’s best line-ups of dairy cattle, judged on the day for top prizes.

AgriScot is one of the premier agricultural events for new product launches.

AgriScot is the farm business event that business minded farmers cannot afford to miss.

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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

Farming Scotland Magazine. £75.00* (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) Please send me

bottles of Tuathanachas Alba.

£ Payment enclosed. (UK ONLY)

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(Payable to Athole Design & Publishing Ltd)

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

BOOK SERIALISATION

“Isolation Shepherd” The Hydro Board’s plans to dam Loch Monar meant an end Iain R Thomson’s life as a shepherd at the top of one of Scotland’s most idyllic glens. Here, our serialisation of his moving memoir Isolation Shepherd ends with him looking back on what was lost when his cottage and byre were burnt and blown up before the dammed waters covered them in 1962

The year 1960 became a truly significant watershed for Glen Strathfarrar. We were the last family to live in Strathmore, at the top of the glen, to taste its unhurried pace of life, its calls on strength and self-reliance, to actively practise the essentials of good neighbourliness and enjoy compliance with a system which had existed with only a slow rate of change over many generations.

Glen Strathfarrar in 1960 was under the ownership of three proprietors. The lower end, from Struy up the six miles to Deanie, was owned by the Spencer Nairn family. Sir Robert, a keen fisherman, assiduously guarded the privacy of this stretch. The extensive and varied centre portion running west, belonged, and still does, to the Lovat estates.

It included Deanie, then stretches as far as the watershed at the foot of the massive Sgurr na Lapaich before following the InvemessRoss-shire county boundary across to the south shore of Loch Monar at Cosac point. Further west again and to the watershed with Kintail we have the wide deer forests of east and west Monar together with Pait. They were owned up to 1963 by Sir John Stirling of Fairburn, Muir of Ord. With mutual agreement between the three owners, a gate was maintained at the entrance to the glen about a mile from Struy village. Though rarely closed, the glen road was unquestionably private. After the war, the road fell into a state of disrepair sufficiently bad to dissuade all but those insouciant of their car’s 64

welfare from attempting beyond the first couple of miles.

In the Fifties, tourism had not gained the penetration into the Highlands which it presently enjoys and Strathfarrar remained largely unknown. As a result, the glen existed almost untouched by other than authorised admissions on estate business. It must be borne in mind the liberal right of ‘no trespass’ in Scotland extends only to pedestrians. The proprietors were within the law to maintain and close a gate against vehicular traffic.

During the 1950s investigation work went ahead by engineers of the North of Scotland Hydro Electric Board with a view to assessing the area’s potential for electricity generation. Finally, in 1959, the Board decided to press forward these plans for harnessing the waters of Glen Strathfarrar. Already the two neighbouring glens of Affric and Cannich had been dammed and flooded. The final phase of the Board’s overall plan was to dam Loch Monar and link Strathfarrar to this existing complex. Two generating dams were added on the lower Beauly River to complete the water control and utilisation of these vast square miles of the Highlands.

The plans, duly formulated, were placed before a public enquiry held in Edinburgh during November 1959. Though there was considerable general outcry and vociferous demand to have the last remaining unspoilt glen of the Highlands left intact, the opposition to the scheme lacked the basis of a well-reasoned

and co-ordinated case. Not surprisingly, the Hydro Board presented a carefully documented brief in which they undertook to build and maintain a road from Struy to the Monar dam and to subsequently return it to the ownership of the estates involved.

Public outrage developed when, at the end of all work in connection with the scheme, a gate was replaced on the glen road at Struy. Marked ‘Private’, it was duly locked and a gate¬keeper installed with instructions to check all admissions.

I’m glad to say that we left the glen shortly after construction of the new road got underway. The despoiling of any area of beauty is at its most painful when the heavy plant tears without remorse at hillside and birch tree. A glen once busy with pastoral affairs now witnessed a form of activity reflecting man’s ingenuity and ability to turn the forces of nature to his advantage. Some of the planners, however, were

sensitive to the beauty amongst which they worked, for a good deal of attention and expense went into landscaping the various generating stations and water tracks involved. Nevertheless, it seemed that the outlook of the vast majority, public and planner alike, regarded the taming of the glen as a consider¬able achievement. Certainly little concern was attached to the effects produced by flooding to the depth of 100 feet, some six miles of alluvial valley flats at Strathmore.

The production of a small amount of electricity now largely directed to the conurbations of the south, was regarded as perfectly adequate reason for the sterilisation of such low-grade and relatively unimportant land.

Much temporary employment for both itinerant workers and local labour became available and on completion a small maintenance workforce to tend the installations was imported. Preparations in the

Isolation Shepherd at the site of his Strathmore home, 1982.

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BOOK SERIALISATION flood area of an extended Loch Monar went ahead in 1961. The outlook of the contractors and labour force might have provided interesting insight as they set about destroying these longsettled habitations.

‘An area regarded as the most magnificent example of Highland scenery, was thus transformed into an object of vast desolation and ugliness Larch cut from Monar yielded some of the finest timber that the contractor said he had handled.

The wood on the lochside at Reidh Cruidh was cut and floated out by forming raffs towed down the loch by the old Spray, the former ship’s lifeboat we had always used on the loch. Monar and Strathmore lodges were burnt and blown up. Our cottage and byre, a place of constant habitation for centuries, received similar treatment. The lodge at Pait remained just above flood level and was spared, but the cluster of houses including the MacKays’ were left with water swilling about them. The spectacular horseshoe-shaped Monar dam constructed above the powerful Monar falls in the narrow gorge at the loch’s outflow did, in fact, when filled in 1962, lengthen the loch by some six miles. Its rate of fill astonished the experts by taking only about three months to reach the required level. An area, regarded by many as the most magnificent example of classic Scottish Highland scenery, was thus transformed into an object of vast desolation and ugliness.

Perhaps the most unsightly aspect is a wide sterile apron which girts the new loch’s shore line, and upon which, because of the irregularity of the rise and fall, it is impossible for any life form to establish.

Viewed objectively, are such considerations only trivial and an affront to minority aesthetic sensibilities? Perhaps not. Figures recently produced dramatically illustrate the over¬capacity in

electrical energy under current building projects. Ironically it is by virtue of this excessive capitalisation that electricity as a major power source increasingly inflates prices.

On the same projection, industry and the private consumer will, by the end of the century, pay most handsomely to cover the cost of this excessive investment.

So were the Hydro schemes throughout the Highlands really justified? Before he died, my old neighbour Kenny MacKay remarked to me, ‘Mind you, boy, the light in the byre is handy but all the power in the world couldn’t replace the pleasure of a fine day on Loch Monar.’

Certainly the old-style lairds managed their Strathfarrar properties with a view to conserving natural amenities and maintaining a level of employment which ensured a degree of community life within the glen. The Stirlings showed themselves very conscious of sound principles in ensuring the wellbeing of their Monar estate.

In particular they paid attention to old proven practice for the improvement of the red deer breeding stock. The best stags were left to breed and not taken for trophies. A general policy of annually culling inferior stock to maintain equilibrium was their aim. In general, from the early 1800s until quite recently, there seemed adequate revenue accruing outwith their agricultural or investment interests to allow many proprietors to indulge such policies without too great a regard for the profitability of their deer forests.

The financial position of some estates hitherto operating along these traditional lines has now come under closer scrutiny.

Gradually falling industrial wealth and profitability in UK has forced changed attitudes upon many Highland landowners. Glen Strathfarrar did not escape these changes. None of the three estates now runs a stock of hill ewes.

Sheep no longer graze any of the glen’s 30-mile length other than for a keeper’s flock, which still remains on Monar. Shepherds’ houses became holiday homes.

Ready for the dynamite. The Strathmore home.

Interest in red deer in this and many other glens is turning to a more controlled form of management. At Culligran estate, much of the in-bye land denuded of cattle and sheep carries a deerfarming enterprise. A herd of hinds held within high-mesh fencing will be cropped for venison. Further up the glen, the Lovat estate, whilst not abandoning the glen for summering a large herd of hill cattle, is certainly paying heed to the venison-producing potential of the glen and carefully feeding its deer stocks through the winter.

The hardiness of the deer, their excellent feed conversion ratio and easy tame-ability, make them seem an obvious choice for this new low-cost venture in the hills.

Where lies the future for Glen Strathfarrar? Should it be designated a National Park as was mooted many years ago? Is there a case for greater public access?

The road brought under regional authority jurisdiction and the glen opened to the full effects of the tourist industry? Conversely others might take the view that even greater restrictions upon access would ensure the area remained largely ‘wilderness’.

At least, they would argue, some portion of the Highlands could then exist as a form of wildlife sanctuary untrammelled by an excessive human intrusion.

Freedom could be afforded officials and scientists to study the glen’s wealth of natural history untainted by the pollution of tourists intruding with tents

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and plastic litter, disturbing their studies.

One major trend over the past 20 years, is quite simply, fewer and fewer people now wish to live in a remote environment, or ‘close to nature’. The weather is better viewed from behind double glazing, wildlife more amenably studied during short forays from an office or laboratory. The call of the wilderness is being catered for adequately by the television documentary. Scenery looks best through a car window; you don’t have to walk on it. The awesomeness of man challenging the elements is more comfortably experienced between the covers of a book.

Are the great masses wrong?

Does an innate human requirement for the wild and primitive really exist? If so, is its spirit being successfully checked and stifled? Man is not yet ready or capable of controlling the natural environment but his expanding ingenuity coupled with his desire to do so may yet prove his undoing.

The countryside is not just a play area for picnickers, planners or scientists. It is part of our living self which responds by giving us, through our senses and emotions, a feeling of mutual care and belonging. We should embrace this harmony with a sense of affection and environmental morality.

This concludes our serialisation of the new edition of Iain R Thomson’s ‘Isolation Shepherd’. It is published by Birlinn, price £8.99 65

FARM SECURITY

Take Time To Protect Your Property To Deter Thieves Spate of high-value thefts prompts warning to review security measures As the darker nights draw in and the clocks change for winter, farmers, crofters and those working in the industry are urged to remain vigilant and take measures to protect their property.

In recent weeks, NFU Scotland has been made aware of a spate of high value thefts, and is asking those in the agricultural industry to take the time now to make sure their locks are secure, equipment is put away at the end of the working day, and to take simple measures to deter thieves.

The thefts have included a £70,000 tractor from a North-East farm, a high-value tractor and forklift stolen from a Fife farm, and various equipment and machinery stolen in the East Lothian area.

NFU Scotland has been working with Police Scotland over

the last 18 months to encourage farmers and crofters to make their farms and crofts more secure and to report anything suspicious to police on 101.

Various events have been held

by NFU Scotland in conjunction with partner agencies to assist the industry in deterring thieves, including ensuring padlocks are fit for purpose, CCTV is fully functional and floodlighting is working.

Gemma Cooper, NFU Scotland Policy Manager commented: “As the nights draw in, it can be all too easy for people to become complacent about security, making them the ideal target for opportunist thieves.

“According to NFU Mutual, last year alone rural crime cost Scotland £1.7million with the

SCOTTISHCOMMUNICATIONS

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“Our key advice is to make sure security equipment is fully operational, all machinery, and equipment, including trailers, are locked away in sheds or buildings overnight and the keys stored away from windows and main doors in houses.

“By making time to take simple precautions now could save you a lot of time, money and hassle in the future.”

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN SUPPLIERS OF COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT PERTH

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most commonly targeted items by thieves over the last 12 months being quad bikes, tools from farms and businesses and oil and diesel.

“Farmers are having to stay one step ahead of thieves and face a continual battle to protect their property. It is only by continually reviewing and improving their own practices and security features that will allow them to ward off thieves.

Of all the challenges that we hear about from clients on farms and estates across Scotland, one of the most difficult to solve has historically centred around how to best maintain security across large and remote areas of land.

Scottish Communications Group has been working with farms and estates across Scotland since they were founded in 1979. For the past five years they have been designing and installing systems that take advantage of new technology to provide a more cost-efficient, and effective, security solution for Scottish Farmers.

“I have to say the newest technology advances in CCTV and digital communications are really opening up the security

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options for farmers in Scotland - particularly those with large areas of remote land” says Andy Aitchison from Scottish Communications Group. “New high definition cameras mean that one camera can do the work of five older ones with even better detail.”

Video analytics software is relatively new to farms in Scotland, but it can be an incredibly powerful tool. “With video analytics we can do so many amazing things.” Andy explains “We can set systems up to identify if an asset is moving when it shouldn’t be, to identify if there are people where they shouldn’t be, even identify if someone leaves something behind where they shouldn’t have. Any of these can be

FARM SECURITY programmed to raise automatic alerts and capture data so that you can be notified and have the data you need to prosecute if needed.”

Advances in digital communication technology is also helping out, particularly within more remote areas, as IP connectivity can now be extended across an entire estate using renewable energy.

“New systems are scalable and reliable and can be implemented across a very wide area. Access to a power grid is no longer a necessity as we can install wind & solar powered repeaters to ensure 100% reliable connectivity” continues Andy. “We installed one system last year that allows our client to keep an eye on key areas of his

farm from his iPhone! He can be at home with his family and know exactly what is going on, as well as receive a text message if something unexpected happens.”

All of this means that security options for farms and estates across Scotland have never more comprehensive and cost-effective options open to them as they do now.

And on a lighter note new CCTV technology is not just about security - check out the CCTV camera Scottish Communications Group recently installed inside a barn to monitor cows!

You can find out more about Scottish Communications Group on their website: www.scottishcommunications.com

Tracker leads Scottish Police to haul of stolen farm equipment When Mr McKeand’s Honda TRX500 All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) was stolen from his farm in Lanarkshire, he thought it was gone for good. Fortunately, it was fitted with TRACKER’s awardwinning technology which led police straight to the stolen vehicle, recovering it in less than 48 hours in West Lothian. With quad bike thefts spiking by as much as 80%* in some areas TRACKER, the UK’s leading stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) provider, urges farmers and rural businesses to take stock of their security and protect their assets.

Mr McKeand of Broomhill Farm explains, “The ATV is a vital piece of equipment that we use every day to attend our livestock and get around the surrounding land. When I discovered it was stolen, it was a big blow, as it was a recent replacement for the one which had been stolen just after Christmas. Unfortunately that ATV didn’t have a TRACKER device installed, so it was never recovered.

“Thankfully, my quad bike dealer recommended that I fit a

TRACKER unit to my new ATV, as there had been a spate of thefts in the area. I am so glad I did, because police found the vehicle within 48 hours, allowing my business to continue unscathed. The farm is in an area with a lot of theft. My pickup was stolen by opportunistic thieves, 15 months ago, with me standing about 10 metres away, at the time. It felt like nothing could stop the thefts, but now I know that TRACKER will stop them in their tracks, helping police catch them red-handed. I’d recommend TRACKER to any farmer wanting to protect their machinery.”

Andy Barrs, Head of Police Liaison for TRACKER comments, “This was a fantastic result, not only was Mr McKeand reunited with his stolen ATV, but police also found a stash of stolen equipment, including quad bikes and rotators, which would have otherwise been lost for good. Arrests were also made, illustrating just how effective TRACKER is in helping police bring the criminals to justice.

For more information, www. tracker.co.uk

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farmwatch YOUR VIEW COUNTS scotland.police.uk/yourviewcounts

The Police Scotland online survey was launched in April 2016 and is the first time they have carried out a digital public consultation.

This is a now a flexible process that allows people to take part at a time that suits them.

The survey allows communities to tell the police what’s important to them locally and nationally.

So far over 10,000 people have completed the survey and the first quarter results shows the main national issue of concern to people across Scotland is the threat of terrorism, followed by violent crime. Serious organised crime, drug dealing/drug misuse and child abuse all feature in the top five in most regional priorities.

The survey is open all year and Police Scotland will monitor the feedback and provide regular updates. All responses will be read and, wherever possible, incorporated into the planning for policing a particular community.

Nearly 20% of Scotland’s population live in rural areas and Police Scotland is eager to hear from people who live or work in the many different rural communities across the country.

15 minutes of your time can help shape long term local and national policing priorities.

Please take some time to complete our online consultation at https:// scotland.police.uk/ yourviewcounts

FARM WATCH column sponsored by

SCOTTISHCOMMUNICATIONSGROUP integrated security solutions

McLaren Tractors Limited, Dingwall Evelyn Hood takes to the high road to visit again an enterprising business that eight years ago she suspected was well on its way to success.

Almost exactly 8 years ago I first visited McLaren Tractors Limited in Strathpeffer Road, Dingwall and met George and Fiona McLaren, co-directors of the fiveyear-old company. We met in their very small office in a corner of an equally limited-for-space forecourt.

This husband and wife team had about them an air of real enterprise and vision and an evident will to serve their extraordinarily varied potential clientele, that I could not but be impressed and as I drove away after our interview that day I was pretty sure that this was a business that was set to thrive and expand – and I was right!

Arriving in Strathpeffer Road the other morning I found McLaren Tractors now established, since June 2013, in much larger premises. There’s now a large reception and showroom area well stocked with tools and accessories, spare parts and some country clothing. Beyond is a modern suite of offices. In addition there are large, purpose-built workshops and a yard big enough to display larger new and second-hand machinery.

When we first met, George McLaren, managing director and sales manager, told me he haled from Fife, had an HND in agricultural engineering and had been, before branching out to form this company, in the agricultural machinery supply industry for 20 years. Fiona McLaren was, and still is, the company secretary and at the time was responsible for the accounts, for marketing and book-keeping – a general factotum if ever there was! Since we first met there was been quite a change in Fiona’s work pattern. Today there are two additional members of the administrative team and 68

Fiona, winner of the Highland Businesswoman of the Year Award in 2009, comes to the office three days a week only, the rest of her time devoted to bringing up 6-yearold son Jonathan.

Today, McLaren Tractors Limited have a staff of nine altogether. George and Fiona, David Fiske - parts manager, Kushla Ibbetson - office manager, Kim Phimister who deals with after-sales administration, Malcolm Paton – engineer for the Valtra tractor range, Les Naylor – engineer for the Polaris ATVs, David Baird – engineer for the Zetor range and Adam Kulcsar who is a trainee engineer.

Naturally none of these developments have come about on their own volition. So, I asked George to outline what has happened in the 8 years since we’d first met.

“It was in 2008 that the bank and general financial crisis really set in and 2009 was not at all a good year,” he began. “The pound sterling fell against the euro and the dollar and that, of course, pushed up prices. And, because people were so unsure of the financial future – even on a worldwide scale – they simply were not spending money.”

This was when George reinforced his trading ethic by attempting further to figure out a means of bringing client costs down. One way, as he saw it, was for the company to begin to import directly from their suppliers’ factory gates.

“We gradually expanded our imported range over 6 years,” he went on, “and the result was to have the effect on prices we had dared to anticipate.”

George McLaren and Fiona McLaren

The importance of branding and spreading the word At about the same time, George and Fiona decided that their company needed to upgrade their marketing strategy. Roddy Ritchie of the Arrow Creative Agency now deals with their advertising, their branding, even giving their company vehicles a very distinctive green livery. It’s probably no coincidence that in 2012, 2014, and 2016 McLaren Tractors won the title of “Best Trade Stand” at the Black Isle Agricultural Show.

When I first wrote about McLaren tractors I outlined the area and hugely varied potential clientele for this enterprising firm which has, as a kind of motto, The Affordable Machinery Dealer.

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To begin with I reminded readers that it is a fact that only 20% of the land surface of Scotland is arable. I then asked folk to take a look at the map of Scotland and see just how little of that 20% lies north and west of the Great Glen.

“Let your eye take in the Black Isle, and good grazing areas in Easter Ross, Sutherland and Caithness.

Go to the west and see the island crofts and visualise the huge estates taking in both mountains and fertile glens. The range of terrain and the different forms of land management this entails is absolutely unique in Britain”.

Over the years McLaren Tractors has aimed to supply equipment for clients from the crofter with 14 precious acres to the landowner with a 70,000

McLAREN PROFILE acre estate. George said, in that first interview, The chap setting himself up with a second-hand tractor, finding we give him good value, coming back in a couple of years for something bigger and more recent, may one day be able to afford a brand new machine, and come to us for it. The other side of that coin is looking after those who expect good trade-ins for new machines. Pleased with the service that we have given them and the quality of what we sell, we have satisfied customers at both ends of the scale.

The success of this is plain to see – but there is no resting on laurels here.

The Brexit effect?

I asked what effect on the business they could foresee when Britain leaves the EU. “The recent low pound value, “explained George, “has certainly affected costs – by as much as 20%, Machinery coming in from Europe and the States was up in price and, of course, if prices rise sharply then it is entirely automatic that sales drop. However, there are means to counter such a drop and to keep customer costs as low as possible, as I said, we started importing directly from the manufacturers – thereby cutting out agency costs.”

One very important move to keep client costs as low as possible has been the development and launch of the MTL (McLaren Tractors Limited) range of ownbrand farm machinery. This includes the MTO Pigtail Ripper Cultivator designed in such a way as to do an ideal job on all types of soil. Also in the range is the MTL Stubble Cultivator, the MTL Grass Harrow, the MTL Single Disc Spreader, MTL Subsoilers and Sprayers, MTL Pan Mixers and Transport Boxes. These have each been designed with the large range of client farm types this company serves in mind. Also in the MTL exclusive catalogue are the KDL Disc and Drum Mowers and the Stahltec Disc Harrow.

Agents for Valtra tractors in the area North and West of the Great Glen, McLaren Tractors can supply any model of tractor from the Valtra range to meet absolutely any task.

Valtra, a Finnish company, develops 70

David Fiske Parts Manager

its models based on customer experience and reports. Testing and development is intrinsically hands-on. Their Valtra T series signals a revolutionary advance in tractor design – with the client’s requirements of a tractor incorporated and the things he doesn’t need not included in the spec. Surely a remarkable step forward in meeting individual client’s needs and a range that has already earned the Top A Design Winner Award for 2016.

Valtra claim the cornerstone of their design philosophy is Form follows Function. They also say that the number of features they put into a tractor doesn’t count. What does count is what the customer gets out of it.

Originally the company concentrated on the production of machinery for the vagaries of Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian farming and forestry industries.

Consequently they developed a style that suited a similar variety of terrains as we have in the various parts of Scotland. According to their press release, the competition for the Top A Design award was fierce with over 15,000 products from all over the world entered in the international A Design Competition this year. The jury was no shoo-in either, comprised as it was of no fewer than 83 design professionals, academics,

journalists and entrepreneurs.

Over and above this the Valtra N4 and T4 Series have already won the RED Dot Design Award 2016, the Golden Tractor for the Design 2016 award, Machine of the Year 2015 and Machine of the Year 2016 awards.

The company are committed to long-term research and development of their products and make no secret of wanting to be the producers of the world’s best tractors for any terrain.

Malcolm Paton, McLaren Tractors Valtra engineer, has regular update and training sessions on the range at a centre in Coventry.

The Czech Republic has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence.

The tractor manufacturer Zetor, based in the Czech city of Brno, have since 1946 been building a range of tractors that very quickly became a by-word for reliability and durability even in the most difficult terrains and doing the toughest farm jobs. Even the smallest of their models are particularly well suited to upland places and give years of sterling service. McLaren Tractors are agents for Zetor in the north and west and as far east as Elgin and all of Speyside.

Since 1946 Zetor has manufactured over 1.2 million tractors of which most have

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been exported to more than 90 countries round the world. The country’s Engineering Department is the company’s longstanding research and development and testing Department, providing comprehensive and systematic R&D from concept, design, construction – right up to testing tractors and motors not only in the laboratory but also in the field.

The manufacture of the Zetor compression ignition engines has a history that goes back to the 1920s.

The popularity of these engines is attributable to three things – low fuel consumption, high reliability and simple design. Independent testing has proved these engines to be among the most economical on the market. And what’s more, the company says its tractors do not use “power boost” – that is, power available only under certain conditions. Zetor engines have full power available regardless of the tractor’s speed or if the PTO is engaged. David Baird, the inhouse Zetor engineer travels to Brno for training and development updates of these sturdy, reliable workhorses.

In fact, when one really studies the range of tractors available from McLarenTractor Limited - from the biggest and most powerful of the Valtras to the under 80hp, efficient, simple and highly reliable Zetor, every tractor-power need in

McLAREN PROFILE this part of Scotland is well and truly covered.

Once upon a time – well, actually in 1954 - the American company Polaris launched its first Snowmobile. Thirty years later their first All Terrain Vehicle – an ATV – was launched – since when Polaris have become the market leaders and over 2 million of their ATVs have been sold all over the world.

George McLaren described how Polaris have expanded their range. Still manufacturing the one-man, round-the-farm ATVs, such has been the demand for more leisure-time activity versions that, due to customer demand, they now produce a range of people movers.

There are now several versions of long based, six-seater people carriers, perfect for all kinds of farm jobs, transporting shooting parties and so on. Polaris offers the widest range of side-by-side ATV cab systems. Little wonder it is considered the champion of All Terrain Vehicles.

“The Polaris range has become a bigger and bigger part of our business,” George said, “with less demand now for the utility machines and more and more in the leisure market.”

Catering to the grassland grower, McLaren Tractors, are main agents in this part of Scotland for the McHale range of grassland equipment.

Produced in Ballinrobe, County Mayo, Ireland, they specialists in machinery for efficient and reliable bale-handling and balewrapping.

Since Valtra, Zetor, and McHale are in the euro-zone and Polaris in the dollar-zone, I returned to my question about how the forthcoming exit from the EU would affect this business.

“It’s my opinion,” George stated, “that the farming community as a whole have not prospered under EU agricultural policies. There have been, are, all kinds of anomalies.

For instance the stock farmers got wind of the possibility that at the turn of the century a year would be designated as the Reference Year for subsidy payments. – so they stocked up, literally. Places that normally would have had, 72

David Baird Agricultural Engineer

maybe, 70 head of cattle were able to bring that number up to 100, and when the year 2001 was determined as the Reference Year for CAP payments, they were, in many cases, well overstocked.

After the decision was made they got rid of the extra stock, but all future payments were based on that 2001 figure. Well, of course, your 14-acre crofter couldn’t possible add to his stock numbers in such a way and as a result the only folk who really benefitted were the stock farming lowlanders.

“In the past years,” George continued, “a lot of crofters have given up. But there surely is some hope in the prospect of the introduction of a new payments system – linking payments to actual production. Looking ahead, if the Scottish Government is able to put money into agriculture in the crofting and upland areas, there could be an upturn in the number willing to carry on. If not, then I can foresee nothing but a continuing drift of young people from the land.

“Land Reform is already having some effect with some of the large estates beginning to dispose of farming land to concentrate on developing more leisure-orientated business.

“You’ll have gathered from this,” he went on,“ I am really

optimistic that Brexit gives us a chance for change. Our European and American suppliers assure me they will continue trading with us and an interesting thing – and I know this sounds trivial but I think it is important – there is a far greater emphasis now in shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes and farm shops, in serving locally sourced produce. Then we have all those recently developed minibreweries producing an amazing range of beers and, likewise, the mini-distilleries. They look to buy locally-grown barley, for instance. It altogether looks for a promising future.”

A serious problem Returning to a topic that last time we met was evidently very close to George and Fiona’s heart, I asked what had happened since we had met on the then-vexed question of the serious lack of agricultural engineers.

I recalled that in 2008 there was but one trainee agricultural engineer studying at Clinterty, Aberdeen. The lure of the money attached to work off-shore had attracted young engineers into general engineering studies and they readily found work on the oil rigs. But, as it turns out, a job for life it has not been for all.

Fiona said, “You asked what had happened since we last discussed this.

Well, as some indication, the number of

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agricultural engineers qualifying this last academic year was precisely nil. The trouble is that engineering is simply not being taught in schools.”

“Not only that, “ George took up the sorry tale, “there is a total lack of knowledge by the Careers Guidance teachers of the possibilities for a good future and secure employment in agricultural engineering.

Agricultural machinery is increasingly amongst some of the most complex and sophisticated there is. Learning about it is not something that can be simply picked up by workshop experience but needs a good brain and an ability to solve problems.”

So, I asked, what is happening to put this right. What about action by the Chambers of Commerce?

George replied,”The Chamber do run Open Days when school leavers are invited to view a range of training and career options.

These, however, tend to be directed towards urban employment and, I’m afraid, with the emphasis in schools being, for the last many years, on encouraging pupils to think of a future with a university degree under their belts, there has been little or no attention paid to the need for good brains in other career paths.

“A career in agricultural engineering is a near-guaranteed job for life. But it requires study, a

McLAREN PROFILE real qualification such as an HND or HNC at least. Lots of folk – and here I include the Guidance Teachers – think that it is kind of under-achieving to have a job that’s hand-on, and dirty hands at that! Well, I have news for them. Engineers today need to have a good grounding in physics, in mathematics and in dynamics – and to a fairly advanced level.

“What is looked for is the boy or girl who can take their ability to study to that level and apply what they learn to solving problems. Problem-solving is very much part of the job.

I do get visits from fathers with sons who, I am assured, have, from a very early age, shown they can not only dismantle an engine but put it together again.

Fine! But what about removing a bit that has maybe developed a fault or is the evidence of a fault elsewhere. Would he have the ability to solve that? Well, he might , but he’d also then have to show an ability to get the school

qualifications to get him into College.”

McLaren Tractors is a company keen to take on apprentices and give newly qualified agricultural engineers a start on the career path.

So, George and Fiona have made it their business to make sure the message of career possibilities in agricultural engineering is heard.

When one considers the real need for employment opportunities in this part of Scotland, the continuing drain of young folk who leave to find work, if they can, in other areas because they think there is no future for them in their homeland, then surely there has to be some attraction in the idea that on offer is the kind of interesting and rewarding job that would be theirs for a life-time.

George has approached Inverness College and schools, for instance, to talk to students.

His approach is one of “This is who I am and this is what I do”. This year this encouraged a couple of students – a boy and a

David and Adam working on tractor

girl - to come forward to look for further information and they are in process of being offered future apprenticeships.

“Well, “said George, “at least it’s a start. But we still have to overcome the real problem of the Guidance Teachers who seem to be completely out of their depth when the talk turns to engineering!”

Conscious of taking up a lot of their precious time I thanked

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Fiona and George for taking time out to update me on their business and headed for home.

With me all the way was a real pleasure at having been so very right about this company’s potential for success only 8 short years before.

Please visit their excellent website www.mclarentractors. co.uk for the full range of product, prices and more.

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LiveScot 2016 Saturday 26th November 2016 Lanark Agricultural Centre, Lanark In our 3rd year at Lanark ‘LiveScot’ is going from strength to strength. We are very grateful to all Exhibitors and Sponsors that have stood by us through these early years at Lanark and also all the new followers we have gained since our move from the Winter Fair at Ingliston.

Last year LiveScot had a great buzz throughout the venue for the duration of the day. With this good feeling carrying onto the Auction, the Beef Cattle and Sheep sales were well supported by Butchers, buyers and Exhibitors. Our Charity Rib Roast Auction was also well supported with over £2000 being raised for RSABI who will be the beneficiary of this sale once again this year.

Not resting on our laurels we are introducing 3 new attractions this year. A Dairy section, a Poultry Show and a Texel Sale.

These sections are shaping up to

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be well supported. These will run alongside the Beef Cattle Classes, Commercial Calf Classes, Open Sheep Section, Single Ewe Lamb Classes, Young Handlers, Beltex Sale, Crooks, Silage, Hay, Potatoes & Grain Section and not to forget the great display of produce at the Baking and Crafts Section. There will also be an Open Stockjudging, with excellent prize money on offer, taking place in the pen area next to the Breed Society Stands.

Entries for the Beef Cattle and Sheep Sections have now closed with Cattle numbers up on last year, Commercial Calf entries are also up on last year with sheep numbers on par with 2015. Entries for the Silage, Hay, Potatoes & Grain section, Poultry Show, Crooks and Baking and Crafts sections don’t close until Friday 11th November so you still have plenty of time to enter!

Our Judges all have a hard

task in front of them but I am sure they are more than capable with the job they will be undertaking.

Our Judges are as follows: Judges: Beef Cattle – Mr Richard Wright, Bedlads Gate Farm, Bowers Mill, Somerton, Somerset Commercial Calves & Cattle Young Handlers – Mr Andrew Anderson, Smallburn Farms, Plewlands, Duffus, Elgin Butchers Cattle & Housewives Choice – Mr John Gilmour, John Gilmour Butchers, Penston Road, Macmerry, East Lothian Young Stocksperson Competition – Mr & Mrs J Goldie, Newbie Mains Farm, Annan Dairy Cattle – Mr Craig Davidson, Errolston Farm, Gretna Open Sheep – Mr Jimmy Mulholland, Midtown Farm, Great Orton, Carlisle

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Single Ewe Lambs & Sheep Young Handlers – Mr Archie MacGregor, Allanfauld Farm, Kilsyth, Glasgow Poultry - Mr Graham Waddell, 5 Burnvale, East Burnside, Broxburn Crooks – Mr Charlie Grant, 23 Edenside Court, Kelso Silage, Hay, Potatoes & Grain – Mr Keith Maxwell, Cauldshiel, Haddington, East Lothian Baking & Crafts – Mrs Margaret Leiper & Friend, 3 Kersewell Avenue, Kaimend, Carnwath With various Trade Stands present on the day we hope you will support them by showing an interest in their products and what they have to offer. Trade Stands will be situated in the Main Foyer, Main Cattle Hall and also spilling out into the Pen Area between the 2 Sale Rings.

In the Main Cattle judging hall, the new improved stock access door definitely helped

LiveScot 2016

the running and flow of the show which will be a good thing this year with increased entry numbers and I am sure the quality of stock will be top notch.

This year there will be a new ‘Young Stocksperson Competition’ to be held during the Beef Cattle Judging.

Entrants will be judged on their Showmanship skills throughout the day.

With something for everyone this is sure to be a day not to be missed!

Doors will be open from 8am with judging commencing at 8.30 in the sheep ring shortly followed by the Open Beef Cattle classes.

Our Charity evening on the Friday night is sure to be another great occasion. At £10 entry with all proceeds going to

Charity. Country Refreshments and Pure Malt must be thanked for their generosity in donating their services for Charity. This year our donation will be made to Doreen’s Stem Cell Treatment fund.

The Trustees of the Scottish National Fat Stock Club look

forward to welcoming you on the 26th November.

Entry: £5 (Under 16’s free) with car parking free

Other November events for your diary…

Premier Meat Exhibition Wednesday 16th November 2016 Caledonian Marts, Stirling As well as LiveScot, the SNFSC also run the Premier Meat Exhibition. The PME is a live/ dead competition, which is run in partnership with Scotbeef and Marks and Spencer. The live classes will be held at Caledonian Marts, Millhouse, Stirling on

Wednesday 16th November and the carcase classes will be judged on Friday 18th at Scotbeef for viewing by Exhibitors on Saturday 19th. Spectators are very welcome to come along to Caledonian Marts from 3pm on the 16th November to view the

judging of the great stock we have entered for the PME. This ever popular event has been running for many years, and entries are as high as ever.

The Young Livestock Producer section includes classes for 16-18 year olds and 19-26 year

olds, with heifer, steer and lamb classes for each age group. We along with Scotbeef and Marks and Spencer are committed to encouraging youngsters into our industry and this competition gives them a great insight into the beef and lamb industry.

Native Pony Winter Fair Saturday 19th November 2016 Lanark Agricultural Centre, Lanark The Native Pony Winter Fair is run in conjunction with the Clydesdale Horse Society’s annual Winter Fair. Entry forms for this competition can be found on our Website with a closing date of Friday 11th November.

Margaret Gray, SNFSC Secretary, Langside Farm, Kirkfieldbank, Lanark, ML11 9TZ

Web: www.fatstockclub.co.uk Email: secretary@fatstockclub.co.uk

Tel: 01555 662613/ 07939 523575 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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DIET FEEDERS

Diet Feeders Plenty of brands and models to choose from‌

Abbey Feeders Abeey have a range of diet feeders from 8 cube to over 33 cube that can seamlessly integrate into existing farmyards.

Abbey Machinery continue to push feeding boundaries to provide customers with a diet feeder range that enable them to optimise labour efficiency, maximise available feeds and control their feeding costs.

Their new Tri-Auger Feeder is a culmination of years of work, where farmers wanted greater feeding capacity, without compromising on ease of use and manoeuvrability around the yard. The Tri Auger design has a

self-steering bogie running gear for advanced movement around the yard; capacity of up to 13.5t (depending on dry matter of feeds) capable of feeding 200 cows in a single feed; narrow design, with low overall heights; large exit door providing enhance feed-out speeds; 6 weigh bar system for even more accurate weighing; reinforced chassis for longer working life; along with robust driveline - 1000 rpm input speed.

To cater for a wide variety of trough heights their new Sliding Raised Conveyor features a specially designed

heavy duty belt for even greater performance. The Sliding Raised Conveyor can be used in the flat sliding conveyor position or as

a raised conveyor to feed into troughs to allow farmers faster more efficient feed-out in a wide variety of farmyard situations.

BvL V-MIX Plus: New 22 m3 mixer wagon

D-K-R

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Main Dealers for Trioliet Diet Feeders

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Westfield, Coulter, Biggar, Lanarkshire ML12 6HN 4EL s &!8 E-Mail: dkrcoulter@hotmail-com 76

With the new V-MIX Plus 222S Bernard van Lengerich Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co.KG (BvL) is rounding off their V-MIX Plus line of medium-sized external loaders with two augers.

Delivering a capacity of nearly 22 m3, this new mixer wagon is already the 14th size option that BvL is offering in their two-auger mixer portfolio. The mechanical engineering company now supplies medium-size machines with capacities ranging from 18 m3 to 27 m3 and models with a flat

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or extra tall mixing vessel that can hold 15 m3, 17 m3 or 20 m3. “We experience steady demand at home and abroad for medium-size mixer wagons from a large number of farmers.

Complementing our mediumsize portfolio with 18 m3, 20 m3, 25 m3, and 27 m3, our new 22 m3 offers our customers yet another option to find the size that is right for them�, explains Bernard van Lengerich, Managing Director at BvL. Apart from a slew of different size options, BvL

DIET FEEDERS Maschinenfabrik also provides an extensive range of equipment options that go with their mixer wagons. Foremost among these

options is the comprehensive line of discharge choices that include doors on the side or the rear, conveyor belts or

side elevators. What is more, BvL mixer wagons can also be equipped with an electric control for the hydraulic functions,

various camera systems, a programmable weighing unit or magnets that will keep out foreign objects.

Conor Vertical Feeders The Conor vertical feeder is the result of extensive field testing and its unique design ensures that even the toughest of bales are mixed quickly and efficiently.

The auger design along with the shape of the tub ensures a consistent and even mix.

The tub is mounted on a four point programmable DG weighing system and it is supported by an independent double chassis to give maximum support during loading and transport. Its robust simplistic design promotes a problem free lifespan and its design ensures a consistent mix which leads to improved yield and high nutritional value. It is designed to handle all types of feed efficiently to produce a top quality mix.

The end result for the farmer being improved live weight gain, improved ration quality and control, enhanced animal health,

fertility and longevity, improved milk quality, higher milk yields and reduced labour.

The Conor diet feeder has a specially shaped mixing auger and tub which can handle large round or square bales of silage, hay and straw. The auger performs the chopping and mixing functions in a very simple cycle. The feed is drawn up towards the top of the auger and then is pulled down to the outside of the auger in a fast and efficient cycle.

Diet Feeders from Harry West Harry West (Prees) Ltd now offer the full complement of diet feeding options for your particular requirements.

In our ever changing times the demand to produce more for less cost has never been more prevalent and in the dairy / beef industry this is always a very topical issue.

The range of Diet Feeders available from this North Shropshire based company cover every requirement of the progressive breeder and these include the West Diet Feeder, this paddle type mixer has won many RASE awards and is available in

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12 m and 16 m capacities.

This low power requirement, top quality mixing and high feed out design has been very successful and allows clamp silage to be processed to a very high standard.

For customers who require to chop material they can

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DIET FEEDERS offer the full range of Seko machines, these top quality horizontal and vertical design machines gives us, up to the minute design and a statement of being The Best Unifeed for our market.

The Samurai 5 horizontal range of machines gives us capacities of 5 cu/m up to 30

cu/m in various configurations consisting of trailed, self propelled and stationary units.

The simple design consisting of 2 augers with 4 convergent windings along with stationary and auger blades give a very good chopping and mixing effect as favored by their many customers.

Hi-Spec Vertical Auger and MixMax diet feeders With its range of Vertical Auger and MixMax paddle type feeders, Hi-Spec Engineering Co Ltd offers one of the widest ranges of diet feeders on the market.

Based in Ireland, Hi-Spec Engineering specialise in the manufacture of machinery for the livestock market, in particular

auger and paddle type diet feeders and an extensive range of vacuum tankers and manure spreaders.

A particular feature of HiSpec machinery is the wide range of options available, enabling the company to effectively tailor a machine to a customer’s specific needs. This is especially the case

Agricultural Merchants

Main dealers for Siloking Feeders 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

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DIET FEEDERS with diet feeders, where Hi-Spec offer one of the widest range of feed-out options available of any machine on the market, ensuring that there is an option to suit all types of building and feeding system.

The Hi-Spec Vertical Auger range of feeders is available in both single and twin auger variants. Single auger machines range in size from 7m3 to 16m3 and the twin auger from 14m3 to 32m3.

A specific feature of the Hi-Spec range is its ability to quickly and efficiently incorporate complete bales into the mix, due to the unique knife arrangement, which also allows the Vertical Auger mixer to be used with lower

horsepower tractors. The Vertical Auger range uses a low pitch mixing and chopping auger that creates a simple cycle action and is fitted with eight self-sharpening knives one of which runs close to the body of the Vertical Feeder.

King Feeders King Feeders UK offer a large range of Vertical Tub Feeders from 6 to 50 cubic metres, however the best and fastest mix is achieved with the King Feeder Horizontal 4 Auger machine, with a range of sizes available from 7 to 35 cubic metres. This model has been in production for over 20 years. The King Feeder will process large bales in approximately 30 per cent less time than that of the vertical model also giving a more precise size of cut.

The Vertical Tub Feeder only cuts where it hits with varying sizes in the end product. Bales

sometimes rotate around in the machine for long periods of time until they make contact with the blades. The horizontal machine blades pass between 2 shear bars with combs, giving a precision size of cut and making this machine very efficient in straw, hay, haylage and roots. Critics often say horizontal machines over process the material. The King Feeder has four augers which all rotate in the same direction, maintaining a more open mix. By comparison, the King Feeder has slightly higher maintenance costs than the Vertical Feeder but this is more than

outweighed by the speed and the quality of the mix. Outlet delivery is available to left and right side by

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stainless steel conveyor or rubber belt. A full range of weighing devices are available.

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DIET FEEDERS

Kongskilde VM 8-1 S diet mixer A panel of technical experts and farmers awarded Kongskilde’s fully automatic diet mixer the gold medal at this year’s Agra exhibition, which was held on the 20th-25th August in Gornja Radgona, Slovenia.

More precisely, it was the Kongskilde diet mixer VM 8-1 S version that was awarded because of its high technical standard. The jury emphasized the quality of the construction, the weighing system that can work independently of the tractor and the fine mix quality.

ProFeed+ farmer management

software with data extraction also received praise.

Kongskilde’s VM-feeders for livestock farmers include models with capacities of 8-45 m3 and with 1, 2 or 3 augers. The modular design allows for many unloading options to be created without any modifications to the main tub construction. The VM 8-1 S is an 8 m3 model, which is suitable for dairy herds of 3570 cows.

This award is further proof that Kongskilde VM feeders are winning new customers

and high praise right across Europe. Originally launched in the UK under the JF-STOLL brand in 2001, the popularity has continued to grow over the

last 15 years. Many well-known herds now operate Kongskilde feeders and there are also several working in blending plants as static feeders too.

Kuhn trailed and self-propelled mixer wagons the front left, rear right or rear left. Tilting side conveyors can also be specified as can a front or rear cross-conveyors. Hydraulic counter knives are available as an option as are coated long-life knives. The range suits tractors in the 40-95 hp bracket and all models can can be used with Kuhn’s Feed Tracking software and can be equipped with a digital, programmable weighing system.

Kuhn Farm Machinery’s diet feeder range consists of two series of trailed vertical auger mixers, a pair of horizontal auger machines and a self-propelled series of machines. Standalone static mixers are also available.

The PROFILE range consists of single and twin vertical auger

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machines with capacities ranging from 4 to 20 m3. The machines vary in overall height from 2.05 to 3.19 metres and are available in standard or narrow width versions. Feed out is from the front right corners as standard, but all machines in the range can be configured to feed from

The PROFILE PLUS range shares all these features but is also equipped with a straw blowing turbine, enabling the machine to be used as a diet feeder and/or bedding machine.

The basic PROFILE 470 (4m3) machine starts at £17,087.

The PROFILE 2080 (20m3) starts at £38,308.

Redrock Vertical Mixer feeders “Complete diet feeding continues to offer dairy, beef and sheep farmers the most effective way of meeting their stock’s nutritional

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needs in full,” confirmed Redrock sales manager Mark Linden.

“Improving feed utilisation will be the cornerstone of

DIET FEEDERS farmers’ response to commodity price volatility. In practical terms this means making best use of the feeds that are available on farm and ensuring that ruminant animals are fed in line with their potential to produce milk or secure their daily liveweight gain targets.”

Redrock has always been renowned for the quality of its engineering solutions. But the company also offers clients a customised nutritional advice service, which is centred on a TMR Tracker system. This provides farmers with a total solution in terms of managing feed costs and ensuring optimal performance from the various animals within specific groups.

Mark Linden again: “The tracker system is fully compatible with all herd or farm record systems. At its most basic level it will serve to check the programmed ration against that which is actually fed out.

The system will also calculate

and register daily feed costs, dry matter intakes and daily refusals.

“The new system also provides an integrated tracker function for on-line data exchange with nutritionists and advisors.

“In essence, the TMR Tracker is an integrated management system, allowing complete on-line data exchange between the farmer and Redrock.

Sherbourne Powermix The Sherbourne powermix Since it’s launch in 1993 everything about the Shelbourne Powermix has been designed around customer requests and requirements.

The latest Powermix Plus is no exception, after 3 years of design work and customer consultation the first production machines are now on farm. The Powermix Plus range is designed as a compact

twin auger range of machines, the design team’s brief at the start of the project was as follows, Model sizes of 16, 18 and 22 cubic metres, Shorter machines for greater manoeuvrability, Greater durability by using strategically using thicker, higher grade steel, Faster, more efficient bale chopping through a smoother tub shape, Lower horsepower mixing

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requirement, Simpler design through incorporating the chassis into the tub weld assembly.

Three Powermix Plus models are available 16 m, 18m and 22m.

All models are available on either a single or tandem axle. Faster bale chopping and less spillage has been achieved by designing a new shape tub with smoother sides and better transition between

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DIET FEEDERS mixing chambers, the new shape allows material to move around the tub more freely, mixing performance is also improved.

The front mounted door locks into position when closed to provide uninterrupted material flow. Faster chopping times are also attained through horizontally mounted auger blades, increased auger speed, and new straw ring design.

The new tub shape gives the additional advantage of a lower horsepower requirement. Other new features include, The auger and tub is manufactured from high grade steel (S500) for maximum durability and life. The lower side walls of the tub are manufactured from 12.5mm high strength steel. – The most heavy duty on the market, Improved front conveyor system with spring loaded belt tensioner.

Siloking Precision feeding Kverneland’s Siloking selfpropelled feeder range is brimming with technology to make feeding a faster, more accurate and more cost-effective process when compared to investing in a dedicated telehandler and trailed feeder.

“Larger herds, typically with more than 400 cows, demand much better management when

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it comes to labour, forage and nutrition requirements,” explains Kverneland Siloking specialist Dan Crowe. “And a selfpropelled feeder wagon makes mixing and feeding a much more efficient and more cost-effective solution than many would believe possible.”

He points out that when it comes to ‘mechanical costs’

DIET FEEDERS the self-propelled feeder wins hands-down over the trailed feeder. And the greater accuracy of the intake system turns it into a no-brainer.

“When loading with a telehandler, there can be as much as a 30 per cent discrepancy on what is needed to make up each ration and what actually goes into the tub,” he says.

“A self-propelled Siloking feeder with a measured intake and data logging capability will

put in exactly what’s needed – nothing more, nothing less.”

“Using a self-propelled feeder also eliminates ‘bucket and wind’ losses, which can occur when tipping fine, light materials into a feeder using a loader,” he warns. With data management, Mr Crowe reports that some trailed feeder customers have seen a discrepancy between what has been delivered to farm and what has been fed into the mixer wagon.

Solomix 2 VLL New Edition from Trioliet

The Solomix 2 diet feeder from Trioliet has been a huge help for dairy farmers for many years. However, the features in the improved Solomix 2 VLL ‘New Edition’ even better meet farmers’ needs. Last year Trioliet introduced the New Edition version with 12 to 20 m3 capacity. From now the mixer feeder is also available with 24 and 28 m3 capacity. With these large diet feeders we have completed the Solomix VLL New Edition range.

The Solomix 2 2800 VLL mixer feeder is equipped with two ‘Long Life’ augers made of 22 mm thick steel (optional for 1200 to 2400 models). That ensures a long lifespan of the

augers as well as the mixer feeder in general. In addition, the mixing tub is redesigned so that the feed is mixed according to the “Dual Flow” principle; both horizontally and vertically.

Therefore the mix quality is superior. Together with the sharp Trioform auger knives (max.

10 per auger) the different feed components are mixed and cut extremely well. Every cow gets a perfect mixed ration, every time the red mixer wagon drives by.

The machine has a deep and narrow mixing tub where the wheels are placed next to the tub.

Together with the fact that the wheels are fitted in the middle of the tub, the machine is extremely manoeuvrable.

Order your FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE Limited Edition Whisky See page 63 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

beef ABP and Harper Adams unite in appointment of Professor of Beef Production An outstanding researcher and educator in the field of beef production is being sought by Harper Adams University, with support from ABP UK. For the right candidate, the title of Professor of Beef Production awaits, plus a chance to shape industry thinking and mould the newest talent in the beef sector.

ABP UK, one of Europe’s largest beef processors, is helping to sponsor the new appointment, which will sit within the Animal Production, Welfare and Veterinary Sciences department at Harper Adams.

The Professor will lead the development of research and taught postgraduate programmes in ruminant meat production systems at Harper Adams, alongside acting as ABP UK Beef Consultant, working with the sponsor to develop and deliver its agricultural beef research programme.

Carwyn Ellis, head of animal production at Harper Adams, said: “The department has worked closely with the beef sector for many years.

I welcome this opportunity to work more closely with ABP UK in supporting their research and development initiative and in the co-funding of a Professorship in Beef Production, which will enhance further both our capacity and 84

capability to address the needs of the beef sector.”

Dean Holroyd, Technical and Sustainability Director for ABP Food Group, said: “We are delighted to support this post within such an internationally recognised agricultural university as Harper Adams and we believe that it will bring significant benefits to our existing research and development programmes and partnerships. This will be a collaborative partnership where industry and academic expertise will come together to accelerate sector leading research and improvements in beef production.”

Dr David Llewellyn, the University’s Vice-Chancellor, added: “We welcome the generous assistance provided by ABP UK to help fund this new post.

The beef sector is a hugely important part of UK farming, and for Harper Adams and a leading company to be working together in this field is another significant development for the University. We look forward to building a strong partnership with ABP UK and, in the process, providing further support for the beef sector in the years to come.”

Candidates with relevant knowledge and experience are now being sought. More information and details of how to apply can be viewed at jobs. harper-adams.ac.uk

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Olympic champion meets farmers, butchers and pupils to support Scotch Lamb PGI

Rebecca joined the MacDougall family on their farm this week to learn about Scotch Lamb PGI. L:R: James MacDougall, Nell the dog, Ailie MacDougall, Rebecca Adlington, Wendy and Kyle MacDougall.

Double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington pulled on a pair of wellies and joined a local farming family this week during a visit to raise the profile of the versatility of Scotch Lamb PGI. Rebecca also visited Gavin Colquhoun and staff at Elderslie Butchers and then headed to Muirhouse Farm, Kilmacolm to learn about the quality assurance, traceability and animal welfare standards which underpin the iconic Scotch Lamb brand.

James and Wendy MacDougall and family run 540 North Country Cheviot ewes on the farm which is around 650 acres, including 200 acres rented. During the visit the Olympic champion joined the family, and collie Nell, to work with sheep on the farm.

Quality Meat Scotland, which organised the visit, is currently delivering a major “Wham Bam Thank You Lamb” marketing campaign behind Scotch Lamb, aimed at showcasing how simple,

quick and versatile it is to cook.

Busy mum Rebecca, who is a huge fan of lamb, also visited East Fulton Primary School in Linwood to inspire pupils about the importance of a healthy diet and just how quick and easy it is to rustle up a tasty nutritious meal.

Gold medal winner and TV presenter Rebecca recognises the importance of beef, lamb and pork in a healthy diet.

She explained: “During my time as an elite athlete, lean red meat was a very important part of my diet.

As an excellent source of protein, zinc and vitamins, it helped make sure my body had all the nutrients needed for training, competing and recovery.

“That’s just as important to my family’s balanced diet today, and the versatility of Scotch Lamb makes it the perfect component for a quick and healthy mid-week meal.”

livestock Christmas Classic announces judges and opens for entries Following the announcement of new event sponsor NorthLink Ferries, Aberdeen & Northern Marts is delighted to announce that judges have been selected and entries are officially open for this year’s premier two-day winter livestock show ‘The Aberdeen Christmas Classic’.

The traditional Christmas show – celebrating its 24th year – is well-established in the agricultural calendar as one of the UK’s most prestigious annual shows and sales of prime cattle and sheep; pedigree female sheep; pedigree beef bulls; and the ‘Rising Stars Exhibition Calf Show’ with £16,000 of prize money and a range of trophies up for grabs.

The event is well-known for attracting prime stock entries including many top prize winners from Scotland’s summer show season. An estimated 80 prime cattle and 200 prime sheep from many of the country’s leading livestock producers will be on show on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 November at the free admission event at Thainstone Centre, Inverurie – attracting interest from buyers all across the UK.

In addition to the packed agenda of shows and sales, the two-day event is also very popular with the young farmers encouraging the next generation – up to the age of 29 – to participate in dedicated sections for the prime cattle and sheep competitions and also the opportunity to shine through young farmers’ stock judging competitions and the Rising Stars calf show.

Last year’s Christmas Classic was a huge success with an array of quality livestock on show. The haltered beef cattle overall champion title went to Wilson Peters, Cuilt Farmhouse, Monzie, Crieff, and sold for £3,000. The top price was achieved by Blair Duffton & Rebecca Stuart, 2 Bogie Street, Huntly, and their Limousin cross heifer ‘Saucy Flossy’ which won the Butchers’ Championship and sold for £3,500.

In the quality prime lambs section, the Beltex breed dominated the show, with Mr Callum Angus, West Mey, Thurso, getting a triple championship by winning the open champion pens of lambs, and best presented pen of lambs

titles, including a special prize for the best pen of lambs for his Beltex sired lambs. These sold for the top price of £280 per head.

The Rising Stars calf show, launched at the 2014 Christmas Classic, is returning for its third year giving farmers the chance to exhibit the best of their young cattle (born after 1 March 2015 and halter-led) as a taster for the show season ahead in the coming year. Last year, British Blue cross heifer ‘Pic N Mix’ from Jack Hendry, Heads of Auchinderran, Aultmore, Keith, claimed the overall champion title.

Alan Hutcheon, Auction Operations Manager of Aberdeen and Northern Marts, said: “We are proud to host one of Scotland’s best agricultural events of the year here at Thainstone Centre and encourage farmers to submit entries early

for what promises to be another fantastic Christmas Classic event – attracting buyers and butchers from all over the UK looking to purchase top-quality livestock from exhibitors.”

Leading the judging team for this year’s event is Hugh Black, H Black & Sons Butchers, Lanark and Louise Forsyth, W T S Forsyth & Sons Butchers, Peebles for the haltered beef cattle and Gary Raeburn, Forbes Raeburn & Sons Butchers, Huntly will cover the young farmers prime cattle and sheep, while Graham Sim, Procurement Manager at ABP Food Group, Perth will judge the unhaltered cattle section. Judging the prime sheep this year is John Woodburn, 28 Hass Grove, Lockerbie.

Closing date for prime stock entries and the Calf Show close at noon on Monday 14 November.

Silage still falling short of protein target Following the latest forage update, experts are warning that crude protein levels in this year’s silage crops are two percent lower than target, which could impact livestock performance if the ration isn’t correctly balanced.

Recent results show that average crude protein (CP) levels in 2016 silage crops are 14.1 and 14.2 percent for first and second cuts respectively.

While this is similar to last year’s crop, Dr Dave Davies of Silage Solutions Ltd says producers should be aiming for around 16 percent.

“The increasing cost of fertiliser is likely to be a catalyst for low CP levels, which we’ve seen dropping over the last ten years. Sufficient nitrogen is essential to boost protein in the grass but producers have tended to cut back on its application and consequently, we’ve seen a knock on effect, with grass crops lower in protein than they could be.

“The problem is exacerbated by newer grass varieties, which are selected because they are higher yielding and therefore, require increased levels of nitrogen to sustain their crude

protein concentrations. As well as this, the introduction of nitrogen vulnerable zones has undoubtedly led to more cautious application.”

Dr Helen Warren, European technical manager at Alltech, warns that silage-based rations this winter will require careful balancing, if the diet is to deliver optimum efficiency and performance.

“Forage-based rations offer significant potential.

Not only are they usually home-grown and therefore more economical, their high fibre content promotes rumen

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health, improving overall diet efficiency.

“However, to get the most out of silage this year, it’s important that the diet is correctly balanced to deliver adequate rumen degradable protein (RDP), as well as rumen undegradable protein (RUP), and energy.”

A sufficient supply of RDP is particularly important, as it fuels the rumen microbes enabling optimum feed digestion. While this can be supplied from fat-coated urea, Dr Warren warns that this form of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) 85

livestock can be wasteful due to the sudden surge it supplies, and can even result in ammonia toxicity.

“A sustained-release NPN, such as Optigen, provides a much more consistent supply to the rumen microbes, avoiding the peaks and troughs seen with other sources. This enables the microbes to continue functioning, therefore optimising digestion, particularly of the fibre fraction of the diet. Additionally, Optigen allows a lower inclusion rate compared with other NPN

sources, which creates space in the diet.”

When balancing the ration, it’s also important to take into account the dry matter of the silage she adds. “2016 silage analysis suggests dry matter is lower than last year, with second cuts slightly wetter than first cuts. Therefore, it’s important to remember that if the silage is wetter, the animal will get less protein per kilogram of fresh silage intake, which may further increase the need for supplementation.”

Good transition cow management lands two Scottish farms with two awards In the 2016 TMS Awards, organised

by Premier Nutrition, two Scottish farms have each received two awards in recognition of the excellent management of transition cows, and their consequent good health and performance.

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The TMS Awards are based on the results of monthly recordings of cow health and performance, taken using Premier Nutrition’s on-farm transition monitoring TMS service.

Alexander Park of Brownhill Farm, Mauchline, Ayrshire was judged to be the best newcomer onto the TMS monitoring service, and also won an award for having the most consistent TMS performance.

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Lynn Wilson of Davidsons’ Feeds attributed the wins to everyone on the farm paying attention to the detail, and also, keeping things simple.

Bellfield Farm, Holywood, near Dumfries was judged

livestock

The

VET Time for Reflection as the Sun goes Down

By Andy Cant Northvet Veterinary Group

to have the best transition performance for a herd with less than 250 cows, and had reached the finals in the categories for best fresh cow performance and best newcomer onto the TMS service. Hence it also received the top award for being the ‘Best of the Best’.

The pure Ayrshire herd at Bellfield Farm is managed

by David Douglas along with dairyman Stephen Kirkpatrick, and colleagues Grant Nicholson and Robert Slater.

On receiving the awards, Stephen Kirkpatrick attributed the farm’s success to good team work. This was echoed

by John Rogers of Davidsons’ Feeds who said: “There’s a great team at Bellfield, and they have a simple system that works really well on the farm.”

Premier Nutrition’s ruminant director Andrew Pine explains: “Monitoring and managing transition is crucial not only for

the cow herself, but for overall farm profitability, especially in such challenging times.

“The TMS service helps farms focus on how well cows are transitioning into lactation. It flags up impending problems such as ketosis, poor dry matter intakes, or overconditioned cows, and enables the farmer and his nutritionist to see where action is needed to ensure health and performance stay on track.”

Premier Nutrition’s 2016 TMS Awards were presented at a dinner held the evening before the UK Dairy Day in Telford, hosted by former Olympic swimmer turned TV presenter Sharron Davies MBE, with the awards presented by former Welsh Rugby Union player, Sir Gareth Edwards CBE. For more details on the TMS Service, farmers can contact TMS manager Mark Hall on 07711 191085, or email mark. hall@premiernutrition.co.uk.

The shortening days herald large numbers of store cattle leaving Orkney for finishing in Aberdeenshire, which has always been the traditional trade route for our produce.

Other cattle are near housing and we’re heading towards our winter routines of pregnancy diagnosis, blood testing for infectious disease (BVD and Johnes mostly) and TB testing. So the circle of life continues.

But if some things stay the same it seems there are many new things to get our heads around. If you’d asked me thirty years ago what was meant by One Health, Big Data or Evidence Based Medicine I would have been struggling.

One Health or One Medicine is an ambition to encourage worldwide collaboration and communication on human, animal and environmental health. The obvious overlaps of food safety and zoonotic disease (those that affect humans and animals) can be expanded out so that advances in, for example, vaccines and therapeutics, or surveillance and vector control information bring synergies that accelerate improvements in healthcare for us all.

Dealing with antimicrobial resistance is an example where

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the One Health approach is essential. I recently attended a talk by human microbiologists on this subject and it was quite chilling how they spoke of a return to human mortality rates of up to 70% due to postoperative infection on routine operations which was apparently the norm going back to pre 1950’s.

So there will have to be changes – but what? That’s where Big Data comes in – we need a better handle on what antibiotics currently get used for what disease and with what outcomes. This is something that on a national scale isn’t easily available, but which will allow rational decision-making and is the basis of Evidence Based Medicine.

I’m often cynical about the relevance of what I do regarding the above, however it could be me on an operating table a few years down the line and I wouldn’t wish an untreatable infection on anyone – man or beast! One health is about the individual, as well as the population that individual lives in, as well as the ecosystem that population occupies. So if nothing else it will give me something to reflect on as I stick my hand up more than a few cow’s backsides this winter!

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livestock JFC win Best Product at Innov’Space in Rennes France JFC Manufacturing won “Best Innovative Product” Award for their new Tip-Over Drinker at the SPACE Agricultural Show in Rennes, France last month. The Innov’Space Awards are a highlight of the Space show which attracts over 100,000 people over its 4 days every year.

JFC’s Sales Director Colm Concannon accepting the prestigious award for best innovative product 2016 The JFC’s ‘Dumpy’ DBL9 Tip-over Drinker is a 3.5 litre rotating drink bowl that allows the farmer to empty the bowl by the simple press of a button.

‘Almost all good ideas start out as a problem and in this case it was the unpleasant everyday job of having to clean drinkers

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in livestock sheds, this is a daily chore for farmers and until now the only way to clean them was by hand’ says JFC Sales Director Colm Concannon.

The bowl operates by gravity, simply using the weight of water to swing 180 degrees, while dumping the entire contents of the drinker onto the ground/slats. This innovative drinker also swings back to a working position all within the same movement and refills again.

‘It’s a very simple design but it’s very effective and it’s been recognised by farmers and agricultural experts all over Europe’ adds Colm Concannon.

Want to see our DBL9 in action? Watch the video https:// youtu.be/BfFOQVEgpdQ

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DROVERS TALES

“Time waits for no man” and I hardly believe that 13 years has past since I started here.

Finally we are now getting to a place I had hoped to be with regards the pedigree Highlanders. It has taken a long time. When I first started our usual position when showing and selling was in the bottom third of the line up or sale prices. Quite rightly so, as that was where we deserved to be, I don’t like that end of the line!

There were a number of factors to my mind for this and primarily the main reason for this was that the farm was being run organically.

The farm did collect a large subsidy payment for being organic, so there was a big economic carrot to entice us to be in the scheme. I will be frank and say that I am not a great fan of organic farming, for 2 reasons mainly. First and I know from personal experience that the banner “organic” can and be used as a cover for bad farming practices and can create a sort of ranching style of farming with regards livestock; in that if it lives great and if it dies it hasn’t cost anything so no great loss. Secondly there is a slight air of superiority emanates from many organic farmers, like vegans if you know what I mean. Don’t get me wrong I do know some exceptionally good organic farmers and some of them are my friends and I have a lot of time for them, the organic system suits their farms and situation but it does not suit every situation. Organic to my mind is a bit like pheasants, I don’t mind an individual pheasant and would never wish it any harm, but collectively I am not keen on them!

The future is Highland!

By Ken Headspeath Highland Drovers & Borland Farm We continued being organic after our contracted term was over and I would revisit the debate about the merits of continuing being organic whenever I could and put up a strong a case for giving it up. One of the most powerful arguments I had in my arsenal was that we sell Highland Beef and Hebridean lamb, we did not sell meat as organic even though it was at that time.

There is only one premium to be had, it is not possible to get 2 premiums, one for being Organic and another for Highland or Hebridean, it would have been nice, but we pinned our meat marketing

on being breed specific. I remember it clearly and the exact spot in the field when I finally argued my boss to a standstill and asked him why he wanted to continue being organic, all his counter arguments had been blown out of the water, there was no justifiable reason to continue.

He then declared that he likes the idea of organic farming and he liked telling his friends and people he met he was an organic farmer….see an air of superiority. He finally agreed to come out of the organic scheme and since then without the shackles of that type of farming system we have seen a marked

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improvement in production and output. Not much has changed with regards the day to day running of the farm, we apply a bit of P&K each year to the silage ground to replace that which we harvest when removing the annual crop. We have knocked the weeds back into an acceptable level by selective and spot treatments of docks and thistles. With regards our pedigree sales and attempts at showing we can now add finish to the stock through feeding that while expensive it is still less that 50% of the organic equivalent which was so expensive that it was prohibitive in our situation.

We are now playing on a much more level playing field with regards bringing out Highlanders.

With hindsight, I rather arrogantly told my boss that we would have a Highland champion within 5 years of me starting on the farm, which by a stroke of luck I did manage. But to this day I still puzzle over the judges’ decision so many years ago now.

Over the recent years, apart from the odd blip our progress has been a slow but steady climb up towards the top third of the showing line and it is my intention to continue along this path till we are in the top third each and every time we exhibit and sell highlanders. Working on the basis that it has taken 13 years to get this far, I don’t know if I have enough time left to reach that target. It is a slow process but it is so very satisfying when you start to see the results and feel the next step forward formulating in your mind. So I better be of, so much to do so little time.

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dairy Cows Curious about Country Choons The results from a test to see how a Scottish dairy herd would respond to country music are in – with the evidence suggesting that the tunes had a real impact on the cows’ behaviour.

Mackie’s of Scotland – with the help of Colin Clyne, a local musician and founder of Stonehaven’s ‘Doricana Fest’ – created a soundtrack of tunes to play to a 45 strong sample group of its herd, for a fortnight, from late August into September.

Analysis of the data from the automated milking station with the music playing, reveal that the total yield of the sample group dropped 3%, with all but one cow producing less milk in that time.

Despite the reduced yield, 73% of the sample group actually increased visits to the milking robot during the musical fortnight, paying on average nine further visits, suggesting

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that the cows were interested in the music – with one cow even visiting 90 additional times.

Karin Mackie, Marketing Director and one of three sibling owners at Mackie’s, said: “It would certainly seem that the cows did enjoy the music and all of our team working directly with the cows noted how content and curious they all appeared.

“The fact they were visiting the source of the country tunes much more frequently is very interesting – perhaps the music made the cows generally more active, but who knows, they could have been dancing!”

Mackie’s has around 300 milking cows of which 265 were milking during the month of August. The overall average milk yield is around 33 litres a day and over 260,000 litres of whole milk is produced on site each month for use in the ice cream dairy on the farm.

There was one cow that upped its yield, milking after her first calf and pregnant with a second calf due in March next year. Her average daily milk yield increased by one litre over the test period.

She also visited the milking unit more often, ten times more in the musical fortnight.

Lesley Skene, Mackie’s Farm Administrator said: “If we are to judge an increased yield as a sign that a cow liked country music, then we have at least one big fan among the herd, who perhaps we’ll have to re-name ‘Emmy-moo’.

“I couldn’t believe it once the data had been analysed as I had

spotted her in particular moving in to enjoy the silage in the spot closest to the music source.”

Happy workers When you’re managing a workforce it’s worth keeping them content and happy.

This is exactly the case with the rumen ‘workforce’ or microbes.

The rumen is the power-plant of the cow – the stomach where the tough, fibrous food is converted into a much more nutritious format for the cow. The rumen microbes digest the food on the cow’s behalf.

They need to live in an environment that’s at the right temperature, with the right moisture level and pH, and with a very steady and constant stream of nutrients to work consistently.

These nutrients need to be in the amounts that will meet her needs.

If these microbes are ‘happy’ they will produce fermentation acids that the cow removes from her rumen and then builds into glucose for energy.

Problems can arise if the system becomes too acidic – which can be a problem with low pH silages, or very quickly digestible starchy feeds. The microbes will reduce their activity or even die and digestion halts temporarily, reducing the energy supply to the cow. This will reduce intakes and a drop in yield, milk solids and, particularly, butterfats can follow.

Scouring and fibrous manure will be evident too because the fibre digesting microbes are most easily affected by a low or marginal pH.

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This is why acidosis issues reduce fibre digestion.

With a trend towards increasing milk solid payments for some producers, a reduction in fibre digestion, which is the cornerstone of butterfat production, is bad news. Milk protein can crash too in these circumstances, although this has a longer lag effect than butterfat. Lower milk protein can be a sign of what happened few weeks ago, whereas lower butterfat is a sign of what happened a few days ago.

Buffering is essential and the ‘safety belt’ is the natural buffer in saliva. This is why using more structural fibre in a diet makes a cow chew more, produce more saliva and safeguard microbial activity – to help sustain good butterfats.

Rumen buffers are often added to the ration to boost the cow’s natural buffering capacity.

Buffers vary in their effectiveness so it’s worth adding a proven, good quality product if symptoms occur or silages are wet and acidic.

The investment will easily pay for itself.

Diets are a major player in safeguarding the rumen environment. Too much easily digestible material in the way of starch, fibre or sugars, or a digestible carbohydrate:protein imbalance will upset the system.

Likewise, an upset in management, like overcrowding or a poorly mixed ration, can affect the cow’s steady and balanced intake and this will disrupt microbe function and cause problems. Topclass management and quality nutrition are needed to keep the microbes happy!

Equaliser pays its way – and more Results from Cargill trials on rumen buffers has shown a 0.53% improvement in butterfats in SARA challenged cows when the rumen buffer Equaliser was used.

Three groups of cows were supplemented with 300g/head/ day, 150g/head/day and a zero rate

of Equaliser for three weeks. As the dosage of Equaliser increased, there was a very significant and linear improvement in milk fat yield and fat percent, with an improvement in fat percent of 0.36% at 150g/head/day, and 0.53% at 300g/head/day.

Even at current milk prices, using Equaliser at 150g/head/ day for a typical 30 litre cow would generate an extra 14p to 22p per cow in income over feed cost that takes account of the cost of Equaliser, on typical milk contracts.

For more information contact Cargill Animal Nutrition on 01845 577866.

How much could you save by milking with the ADF Automatic Dipping and Flushing system?

With the current milk market it has never been so important for dairy farmers to reduce costs and further improve their efficiency. The ADF system dramatically reduces labour whilst improving cow health and increasing milk yield – all of which increases profitability for the farmer.

The award-winning ADF Automatic Dipping and Flushing System applies dip to cow’s teats immediately after milking, with consistent teat coverage the ADF system prevents residue and bacteria from being drawn up the teat canal when most vulnerable, which is a major cause of mastitis.

The cluster is removed and the ADF system thoroughly sanitises each teat cup with six cycles of sanitised water and compressed air, ensuring every cow is milked with a clean and sanitised liner doing the utmost to prevent cross contamination of mastitis Minimising the cost of clinical mastitis can make huge savings on veterinary costs and greatly reduce your Somatic Cell Count improving your milk quality. A staggering amount of labour can be saved by automating manual dipping, giving you back valuable

time to spend elsewhere on the farm or however you want.

ADF Milking have developed a Savings Calculator which enables you find out how much you could save by installing the ADF System on your farm.

Contact ADF Milking to try the Savings Calculator today or try the online version at www.adfmilking. com and find out how much you could save. Many farmers across the UK are saving more than 2 pence per litre on their milk price since installing ADF. ADF Milking will be exhibiting at the Agriscot Farm Business Event, stand 98 in the Highland Hall and are inviting dairy farmers to visit their stand for a demonstration of the ADF Automatic Dipping and Flushing system in action.

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NFUScotland

dairy

Is our glass half-full or half-empty?

By Allan Bowie, President of NFU Scotland

With the formal process of leaving the EU expected to start in earnest next spring, is our glass half-full or halfempty?

With the pound falling, prices for what we produce have benefited but mainly for non-contracted crops and livestock.

The flip side is that imported inputs are now more expensive. Will that drive a more competitive edge from those businesses importing feed, fertiliser or other goods we need in our farming and crofting businesses?

Harvest 2016 was little better than average for most, but good autumn conditions have seen crops drilled into good seedbeds and hope springs eternal.

Certainly prices in milk, lamb and beef are heading in the right direction, partly helped by currency, but also supply and demand being in a better position. Pork, potatoes, soft fruit and vegetables are also benefiting from a better market balance. All of these positives are currently needed by many producers and the rest of the rural economy.

The financial markets continue to be very wary of uncertainty and risk, something Scottish farmers and crofters have to deal with most of the time, but these traders are very quick to split economic reality from political uncertainty.

These traders are looking for clarity from politicians in UK and EU just as much as we are. Any hint of doubt and the world soon knows as can be seen in the currency volatility.

We are continuing, along with others, to press our concerns on future trade, labour availability and UK agriculture policy post-Brexit with officials in UK and EU and we need the membership to fine tune our wish list.

This autumn and winter sees the restart of many branch meetings after a busy summer workload. I know in this digital age that information and what NFU Scotland does will already have been sent into the ether but it is very important that every member engages with us on the many issues that are important to their business.

In this era of Brexit, and faced with fragile farm incomes, never has the importance of the Union in representing the industry been more important. When you factor in the need for fairer food chains, land reform, species reintroduction, cattle movement changes, changes to LFA – the list grows rather than shrinks.

I look forward to meeting as many members as possible in the weeks and months ahead as the debate on our future goes full steam ahead.

www.nfus.org.uk

dairy Azelis launches Sangrovit®CS in the UK

Following widespread usage on farms across Europe, and a series of successful recent calf feeding trials in Denmark and Germany, Azelis Animal Nutrition is pleased to launch Sangrovit®CS to the UK market.

UK dairy calf rearers now have access to a proven natural herbal-based feed ingredient that can be easily mixed with milk replacer to promote improved gut function in young calves during and beyond the crucial first few weeks of life.

Speaking at UK Dairy Day Antony Wildon – UK technical development manager with the company – highlighted the nutritional benefits of what is a standardised formulation of dried, ground and granulated extract of the Papaveraceae plant Macleaya cordata, which has been combined with organic acids.

“The active substances in Sangrovit®CS are isoquinoline alkaloids (IQ), which have been extensively studied and used in human medicine due to their antiinflammatory properties. But in farm animals these important alkaloids are also valued for their antioxidant and gut protection properties, as well as their positive effect on feed intake,” he said.

He explained that in recent European trials – where newborn calves were fed Sangrovit®CS in their milk replacer from day 3 of life until day 21 – the youngstock continued to hit normal feed intake, growth and health targets even while under challenge from common diarrhoea pathogens.

“Sangrovit®CS promoted excellent health and vitality by helping the calves’ gut wall continue to function, despite the scour-pathogen threat,” he said.

New colostrum-feeding kit, safer and easier to use Dairy Spares has launched a unique new colostrum-feeding kit called the Trusti Tuber. Its design ensures tubing is safer, easier and more comfortable for the calf. It allows feeding to be done more quickly and with less stress for both calf and farmer.

Manufactured by Antahi in New Zealand, the Trusti Tuber starter kit consists of a mouthpiece which sits comfortably against the calf’s muzzle, through which a soft flexible tube is passed.

Using markers of calf size and a stopper, the length of the tube can be altered to ensure correct placement and positioning of the tip end. The mouthpiece and tube are easily held in the calf’s mouth using one hand. With the other hand, the 4 litre ergonomicallydesigned milk bottle can be raised to allow the colostrum, or electrolytes, to flow down the tube and safely into the calf’s stomach.

Further design features include a clip on the side of the bottle to attach the mouthpiece and keep it off the floor, and the transparency of the tube allows better cleaning.

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The Trusti Tuber was developed in New Zealand by vet Ursula Haywood who was finding her farm clients were reluctant to tube-feed calves, due to the associated stress and risk of tube misplacement. In trials the Trusti Tuber has been shown to almost halve the time it takes to tube calves, and it reduced behavioural signs of stress by 88%.

The Trusti Tuber starter kit retails at £55 + VAT and includes the flexible tube, mouthpiece, 4 litre bottle, and also a conventional feeding teat for the bottle. For more information farmers can contact their local stockist or call Dairy Spares on 01948 667676.

sheep Scotch Lamb PGI on the Menu for Top Foodie Writers Members of the Guild of Food Writers travelled to Glasgow recently to learn more about Scotch Lamb PGI. The trip, supported by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), took the team of foodie fanatics on a farm visit to Shantron Farm in Luss, before heading to leading lunch spot, The Sisters, to unveil the quality assurance levels, traceability and animal welfare standards which underpin the iconic brand.

Anne and Bobby Lennox run Shantron Farm in Loch Lomond, famous for its appearance on the BBC 2 fly-on-the-wall documentary This Farming Life.

The group heard from Bobby Lennox about his experiences of

farming on a traditional Scottish hill farm and how the family proudly produce Scotch Lamb PGI which is renowned for its quality both and home and overseas.

After the tour, the Guild group were taken to Chef Jak O’Donnell’s The Sisters Kelvingrove restaurant for the opportunity to sample delicious Scotch Lamb PGI and meet local producers and suppliers.

Overseeing the trip, Head of Marketing at QMS, Laurent Vernet, said: “Hearing Bobby Lennox speak so passionately about how he farms really offered the writers an insight into what makes Scotch Lamb PGI so special.

“We are justifiably proud of the Scotch Lamb we produce in Scotland, and hope that by educating those at the foodie forefront, we can remind shoppers who don’t buy lamb so often about what a fantastic, versatile meat it is.”

The Scotch Lamb PGI campaign, ‘Wham Bam Thank You Lamb’, focuses on the ease of cooking delicious, nutritious

mid-week family meals with Scotch Lamb PGI, and this trip, which coincided with the 2016 Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight, aimed to inspire the food writers with some delicious, traditional and exotic, dishes.

For Scotch Lamb PGI recipe inspiration, please visit www. whambamlamb or the Scotch Kitchen on Facebook or Twitter.

Farmer Workshops to Focus on Worm and Fluke Strategies Sheep farmers are invited to attend one of a series of free workshops focusing on effective

worm and fluke strategies, set to be held throughout Scotland over the coming weeks.

The seven practical workshops are funded by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and will be delivered by vet and sheep specialist Dr Fiona Lovatt of Flock Health Ltd. They will be held on farms or local auction markets in the following areas - Inverness, Galashiels, Moffat, Oban, Stirling, Thurso and Dundee and will run with full involvement of both the local vets and agricultural merchants.

These farmer-focused meetings will look at the challenges farmers face in controlling fluke and worm problems in their flocks and highlight best practice in diagnosis, control, treatment and pasture management.

There will also be practical demonstrations helping farmers to apply the principles to their own flocks and highlighting approaches to handling and weighing animals as well as faecal egg counting.

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“These interactive workshops will address the challenges that sheep farmers face when trying to manage worms and fluke in their flocks,” said Dr Lovatt, who will be speaking at these events.

“Farmers who attend will be offered information on effective diagnosis, treatment and control.

There will also be opportunities to apply this to their own farm situations.

“Attendance at the workshops will assist farmers to evaluate the parasite challenge they have on their farms and develop practical solutions to minimise production losses due to worms and fluke in the future.”

Michael Blanche, QMS Knowledge Transfer Specialist and sheep farmer, added: “The main aim of the workshops we will be hosting around the country is to assist sheep farmers to confidently develop effective worm and fluke strategies for their own farms for the winter months and beyond.”

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sheep M&S announces 100% commitment and support to Scotch Lamb

By George Milne

Recently I attended a conference organised by Farm Stock (Scotland) Ltd covering the lamb supply chain. Ian Watson, Chairman of Farm Stock welcomed the large gathering of delegates to the event held in Edinburgh. Attendees covering the whole supply chain heard some excellent thought provoking speeches from a line-up of top quality speakers. They included Fergus Ewing, Marcus Maxwell, farmer and Director of Galloway lamb who carries 2000 breeding ewes.

Jonathan Birnie, head of Agriculture and research at Dumbia, James Parsons farmer and Chairman of Beef and Lamb New Zealand.

Steven Mclean, M&S. and Nathan Ward,Kantar worldwide.

Oneimportantannouncement on the day was delivered

by Steven Mclean, Head of Agriculture for M&S who said that all lamb in Scottish stores will be sourced from Scotland throughout the entire year, replacing New Zealand lamb from January through to May. This would amount to an extra 26,000 lambs needed. He said Scotch lamb had a good message and it really works well for them in store. This is a welcome announcement for the Scottish sheep industry and a real commitment from M& S that they totally support Scotch lamb and the way it is reared and produced.

M&S must be congratulated for making this important

change and Scotland is in the ideal position to supply lamb throughout the year with many hill lambs just reaching its best eating quality when it is required to fill the gap where NZ lamb was previously used.

The Cabinet Secretary out lined what the government could do for the industry including following up with talks on the recent US consultation for lamb to open up for export to the US and said that this market could well be opened in the spring of 2017. He will progress with the application for BSE negligible status for Scotland and continue to seek alterations to the current rules to allow lost sheep meat levy to be returned to Scotland. He would act on recommendations from the recently produced Sheep review paper and would not allow it to collect dust as has happened with previous documents.

Mr Maxwell highlighted the need to pay more for what the market place requires in order to encourage more lambs meeting specification.

He also felt that improving shelf life for Uk lamb was very important in order to compete with that of NZ. Mr Birnie emphasised that we must produce what the consumer wants. lamb must consistently eat well and be value for money. Consumers buy lamb because they like it not because it is cheap, it therefore must be a good eating experience.

Attendance at these workshops is free and lunch is provided. Please note that clean boots are essential for biosecurity.

To reserve a place at one of these workshops please phone

QMS on 0131 472 4040 or email info@qmscotland.co.uk Ramaining Workshop details Thursday 24 November Lockerbie Livestock centre, Sydney Place, Lockerbie, DG11 2JA 12.00pm – 4.30pm

Marks & Spencer announces move to 100 per cent Scottish lamb sourcing for Scottish stores Marks & Spencer has today announced that all its fresh lamb sold in Scottish stores will now be sourced from Scottish farms.

In the past, lambs for the traditional M&S fresh range have been sourced from Scotland for part of the year and from New Zealand for the remainder of the year. Throughout this time, M&S has also offered a range of UK sourced speciality lamb, which will continue to be offered.

Speaking at the Farm Stock Lamb Supply Chain Conference,

held today in Edinburgh, M&S Head of Agriculture & Fisheries Sourcing, Steve McLean, said: “We know that our customers really like to buy regionally sourced meat, so we have been working hard with our suppliers to find a way to bring them a year round supply of delicious fresh Scottish lamb. I am delighted to announce today that working with our farmers and suppliers we have found a way to supply Scottish lamb to our Scottish stores for 52 weeks of the year.”

Norbrook launches new flukicide for sheep and lambs Norbrook is expanding its sheep flukicide range to promote sustainable control of liver fluke all year round.

Solantel® is a new oral drench for the treatment and prevention of chronic and subacute fasciolosis in sheep and lambs. It is effective against adult and late immature fluke, including triclabendazoleresistant fluke. It can also be used to treat Haemonchus contortus.

Steph Small BVSc MRCVS, Veterinary Advisor for Norbrook, says Solantel should be integrated into holistic animal health plans.

“Liver fluke control is a vital component of any animal health plan, which should be composed of management strategies and anthelmintic treatments. In spite of our increased knowledge of liver fluke, the prevalence of this

parasite is still on the increase and has spread to become endemic across the UK.” Ms Small says the potential profit loss per animal as a result of liver fluke could be as high as £3-£5 per ewe; incidence of fluke disease diagnosed post-mortem in cattle and sheep is rising, with annual losses to the industry of £3 million being attributed to liver condemnations.

Solantel kills fluke from 5 weeks of age. The treatment also acts against the inhibited, L4 and adult stages of Haemonchus contortus and Oestrus ovis (the sheep nasal bot fly).

“Solantel contains the anthelmintic closantel and does not need be metabolised by the liver to become active,” says Ms Small. “The molecule is instead absorbed unchanged

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sheep

YOUNG SHEPHERD

By James Rhys Baylis

into the bloodstream and specifically targets bloodfeeding parasites, such as liver fluke.”

Leigh Sullivan, Large Animal Product Manager at Norbrook, says the disease can have a significant impact on animal health and welfare, and economic impact for farmers.

“Liver fluke in sheep can lead to weight loss; reduced appetite; anaemia; reduced birth weights;

increased barren rates; reduced milk production; increased days to market; liver condemnations and sudden death.”

Solantel is available in three different pack sizes (1L; 2.5L and 5L) and is recommended for use mainly during winter and early spring. Solantel was showcased recently at the Closamectin Kelso Ram Sales, at the Border Union Showground at Springwood Park in the Scottish Borders.

Sheep sector responds to antibiotic resistance challenge While UK sheep farming is a low user of antibiotics with a free-range approach that means there are very few occasions where flocks are reliant on routine use, the sector has recognised it cannot be complacent and has a role in play in ensuring appropriate use.

NSA, AHDB Beef & Lamb and MSD commissioned a survey this summer to reveal where and why antibiotics were being used within sheep farming systems.

Independent sheep specialist Kate Phillips, and Karen Wheeler of ADAS are in the process of analysing results from more than 350 farmers with the view to guiding future support and development work.

Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “The sheep sector is taking antimicrobial use very seriously. We need to play our part in ensuring these medicines continue to be available and effective for both our human and animal populations. To focus our efforts, we need to understand why and when farmers are choosing

to use antibiotics, so we can steer future work towards increasing vaccination for some conditions and finding alternative solutions to others.”

The issue of antimicrobial resistance is now recognised as a global challenge, with 193 countries recently signing a declaration to work together to combat the risks. This is a challenge faced by both human medicine and agriculture, and Defra has committed to an average cross-UK, cross-sector target which will aim to reduce usage by 19% over a four-year period.

To support the industry towards reaching this goal, and beyond, the Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture Alliance (RUMA) is leading the way in helping individual sectors identify specific objectives and ensure more responsible use. This will need the communication and implementation of knowledge and experience, as well as likely investment in farm infrastructure.

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Autumn is upon us once more, and that can only mean one thing for shepherds across the country; tupping time is here.

Rams are being turned out with ewes up and down the country, and though lambing seems so fresh in the memory, the cycle is already beginning again.

Back in September, we managed to slip away for our first holiday since making the move to Scotland. After being flat out from lambing through shearing, it was nice to relax and unwind for a week in the Spanish sun before it all kicks off for another year.

The Texel tup was turned out with the commercial ewes a few days before we left, so we returned to colder climes and plenty of colourful bums.

Coming back from 27 degree heat to the chilly climes of the autumnal Scottish coast would have always been a shock to the system, but I made things a little harder for myself by shaving my hair off as part of the Macmillan Cancer ‘Brave the Shave’ campaign.

Having a number of close relatives and loved ones who have battled cancer, this is a

cause very close to my heart, so it was great to be able to do something small to help raise some money and awareness for a great charity.

While shepherding is in full swing, the rest of our work has been brought to a screeching halt thanks to continued shoddy service from BT. We both rely on access to the internet for work and unfortunately our broadband service seems to be cursed. We’ve been without internet for extended periods on countless occasions in the last 2 years, with phone line faults, broken routers, the weather and problems in the exchange all shouldering the blame.

We’re currently on day 12 of no service and it has taken 5 separate calls to even get BT to agree to send an engineer.

From feedback on social media, I understand this is far from a common problem in rural communities.

It’s disgusting that companies feel that they can ignore those in rural communities and provide them with a shoddy service. We may live in the middle of nowhere, but it does not mean that the service is any less vital to our businesses.

There has to be a solution out there?

You can keep up to date with James’ farming journey on social media.

Find him @SolwayShepherd on Twitter or at www.facebook.com/SolwayShepherd 95

pigs Scottish Pig Industry Farrowing house running Highlights Commitment to costs higher in summer Antibiotic Best Practice The Scottish pig industry has taken further steps to ensure it stays at the frontline of best practice in the careful, targeted use of antibiotics.

The use of antibiotics in the veterinary and medical sectors has been under considerable scrutiny due to concerns over antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

However, additional measures are now in place to ensure the Scottish pig industry is wellplaced to address these concerns.

The Scottish pig industry has a strong track record on embracing innovation and technology to improve pig health and welfare and the latest steps will reinforce measures already in place to ensure antibiotic use is carefully targeted and recorded.

The vast majority of Scotland’s commercial pig farmers are members of the quality assurance scheme run by Quality Meat Scotland which underpins the Specially Selected Pork brand.

The standards underpinning this scheme now include a requirement for pig farmers to record any antibiotics used in an electronic medicines book, which enables antibiotic use on both individual farms and across the industry to be monitored and managed. Tighter controls have also been introduced on the use of products in the Critically Important Antibiotic category.

“Scottish commercial pig farmers are very aware of the need for antibiotics to be used in a careful, targeted way,” said Allan Ward, QMS Pig Specialist.

It costs more to run a farrowing house in summer than in winter.

This is the surprising discovery made by ARM Buildings after accurate monitoring of electricity consumption for heating, lighting and ventilation in piggeries all over the UK. “Despite the fact that heat pads for the creep areas need to be used all year round, the higher cost is mainly due to the extra ventilation needed in summer,” commented Tim Miller, the company’s environmental specialist.

On average, it costs about £1.34 per sow a week in winter

but this goes up to £1.50 in the summer. The cost of ventilation nearly triples from 12p in winter to 34p per sow per week in the summer. The use of lighting, of course, increases during the winter, but this is less significant.

“We would have expected farrowing houses to cost more to run in the winter. Wellinsulated modern buildings are very heat-efficient, but in summer excess heat has to be removed if sows are to retain their appetites and milk well,” said Tim.

UK Prime Pig Prices Expected to Remain Firm Farmgate prices for prime pigs currently stand at their highest level since December 2014, according to the latest analysis by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

Following steady, week-onweek increases since the low point of March 2016, pig prices have risen by 28%, and currently stand 12.5% higher than 12 months ago.

Sterling weakness has had a beneficial affect by making the UK average price lower than the European average price, when quoted in Euros, observed Stuart Ashworth, QMS Head of Economics Services.

“This has meant that pork and pigmeat products imported from Europe have become more expensive, and therefore have not 96

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been a constraint on UK producer prices to the extent they have in the past. Similarly UK exports of pigmeat have become more attractive without having to bid down domestic prices,” said Mr Ashworth.

However, there are other market fundamental influences at play as well. Strength in the domestic farmgate price has been achieved at the same time as UK pigmeat production has been increasing.

“Slaughter statistics show UK prime pig weekly slaughterings have changed little compared with the previous year, during the past quarter. However, because of increased carcase weights, the volume of meat produced has increased slightly,” he added.

Investing in

People SRUC Barony Campus Wins Two Top National Training Awards The Barony Campus of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) is celebrating after winning two prestigious national training awards.

The double win came in the Scottish Training Federation (STF) Annual Awards 2016 - recognised as the sector’s ‘Oscars’ for Scotland.

SRUC won in the two categories it was shortlisted for – the Innovation in Training and the Most Innovative and Creative Employability Provider of the Year awards.

In the Innovation in Training category SRUC received plaudits for creating an online learning platform to help

equine students with their horse care studies at sister Oatridge Campus in West Lothian. This replaced a complex paper-based assessment and appeals to the students because it is interactive and provides peer review and support via text and downloads.

Introducing the project has resulted in a 27% rise in A-grades for the practical element of the HNC Equine Studies course.

Jackie Irving, Animal Care Programme Team Leader at Barony, said: “Although all this information was previously available as paper guidance - the fact it is now online has helped with successful student achievement.

The winners were announced at the STF annual awards held at Crieff Hydro on

JCB apprentices are quids in as they earn while they learn

Eight JCB apprentices are celebrating their graduation with foundation degrees – without running up massive student debts.

The group chose to ‘earn while they learn’ by becoming higher apprentices at JCB rather than heading to university. Their decision is now paying dividends

as all have qualified with foundation degrees in engineering without spending a single penny on their education.

The group became JCB Higher Apprentices in 2013, combining study with practical workplace learning. Now they are embarking on further study which will see

them attain full Bachelor of Engineering degrees (BEng).

JCB Technical and Professional Development Manager Miles Pixley said: “Many people prefer the Higher Apprenticeship route because it enables them to earn money while they are learning and not have loans that they must then pay back when they earn a certain salary later in life.

“The opportunity to undertake real paid work while learning on the job and studying one day a week at college to achieve a foundation degree is a fantastic proposition for a school leaver with good A-levels or a Level 3 apprenticeship. To then have the chance to go on to achieve a full Bachelor of Engineering degree is the icing on the cake.”

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27 September, 2016 – hosted

by BBC Scotland weather presenter Judith Ralston.

School course In order to meet professors’ repeated requests and students’ real needs, the JOSKIN manufacturer sets an explanatory database online with themes regarding the on board agricultural mechanics and technologies on its machines.

“Various themes are covered in a didactic and pedagogical way.

Supports are various (pictures, descriptions, diagrams, videos, etc.) and hyperlinks allow to navigate comfortably to make the visit – or study! – funny and intuitive,” explains Marc Baguette The teaching material, called “school course”, is available in the 7 sales languages used

by JOSKIN (French, English, German, Dutch, Polish, Russian and Spanish) on the address... joskin.com/cursus 97

renewable energy Creag Riabhach wind farm to generate enough power for 36,000 homes Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse has given consent for the construction of a 22 turbine wind farm in the Highlands.

The Creag Riabhach wind farm will be located on the Altnaharra Estate, near Lairg, in the North Highlands.

The wind farm will have a generating capacity of 72.6MW, enough to power 36,000 homes, with estimated savings of

66,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

The proposed development is anticipated to provide in excess of £9 million in community benefit.

The proposal received widespread support from the public and local community council who emphasised the suitability of the location and highlighted the benefits to the local economy. The Highland Council was consulted on

the application and raised no objection.

Mr Wheelhouse said: “Renewable energy sources accounted for over 56.7% of gross electricity consumption in Scotland in 2015, and onshore wind is a key driver for the growth in both our renewable electricity supply and wider renewable energy sector and in the delivery of our vision for a greener Scotland and

statutory climate change targets by enabling decarbonisation of electricity production.

“This proposal for Creag Riabhach received popular support from the local community council and public alike and, once operational, the wind farm will generate enough electricity to power 36,000 homes and generate over £9 million in benefits for the local community.”

MSP launches phase 2 of local community wind project With work now getting underway on building two communityowned wind turbines at Wemyss Bay, Inverclyde, local people have a second chance to join the Small Wind Co-operative which is behind the project.

Phase 2 was launched in Glasgow by Stuart McMillan, MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde.

While the first phase attracted over 300 members from throughout the UK, for phase 2, people living within 20 miles of the project are being given priority membership until November 1st.

Stuart McMillan, MSP, said: “It’s great news that work is about to start on the Kellybank turbines, supporting initiatives that improve employment prospects and grow a further sense of community in Inverclyde. And now local people have a second chance to join the co-operative and benefit directly from owning a share in these wind turbines. The impressive levels of electricity generated from wind recently are evidence that we should be investing in Scotland’s enviable potential for a clean and reliable source of energy for our future.

“The Scottish Government will ensure that by 2020 at least half of newly consented renewable energy projects will have an element of shared ownership like this one.

And we will argue for Scottish 98

control of our share of feed-in tariffs to help promote community ownership schemes.”

The Kellybank site is just above the town of Wemyss Bay, east of the Clyde estuary where the winds blow in from the islands to the west. The community fund from the Kellybank turbines will be targeted to support initiatives which improve employment prospects and which grow a sense of community in the local area.

Leila Sharland, project manager, Small Wind Coop, said: “Community-owned wind

power has been rapidly growing as people are inspired by Germany’s ‘Energiewende’ movement to take ownership of energy generation and bills away from the big energy companies and into the hands of the people.

Scotland is leading the way with local community-owned projects creating and supporting local jobs and generating carbonfree electricity, and this is a great opportunity for people in Inverclyde to be part of that.”

Members of the co-operative will all have an equal vote in

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running it and will be able to use the energy generated in their own home, thanks to an agreement with Co-operative Energy which has agreed to buy the power generated.

Sharenergy, based in Shrewsbury, has helped set up over 30 community energy projects throughout the UK. It’s easy to join the Small Wind Coop, using the application form in the comprehensive Offer Document, available to download at the Small Wind Coop website www.smallwind.org.uk

renewable energy Farmers rewarded £500 cash prize for efficient renewable energy schemes Farmers and landowners who have invested in an efficient and financially sound renewable energy scheme that’s been operational for 12 months or more, should enter the Energy Now Awards 2017.

To be in with a chance of winning £500, apply online: www.energynowexpo.co.uk/ award . The window for entries is short, so don’t delay. The final deadline for submissions is 9 December.

The renewable energy industry awards for the agricultural and rural sectors will be announced at the Energy Now Expo 2017 with a combined prize pot of £3,000 up for grabs.

Judging these awards are three industry experts, Tom Beeley, CLA renewables advisor, Dr Jonathan Scurlock, NFU renewables advisor, and Mr Mark Newton, partner and

head of renewable energy at Fisher German.

Jonathan Scurlock is positive about rewarding farmers who showcase successful renewable energy operations. “The NFU is pleased to champion innovative, forward thinking farmers, and the Energy Now Awards reward best practice as well as providing a knowledge sharing platform, which is key to the further expansion of land-based renewable energy,” he says.

“Agricultural and rural businesses are making a substantial contribution to the growth of the renewables

sector. We are delighted to see a great variety of these enterprises integrated into the rural economy, enabling farmers, growers and other businesses to manage their energy costs and enhance their productivity. Of course it is also important that such projects use and distribute energy efficiently, and realise a wide range of environmental benefits.”

The awards will recognise passionate and ambitious 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: Best AD and biogas scheme Best biomass scheme Best heat pump scheme Best solar scheme Best hydro scheme Most carbon neutral scheme Best wind scheme 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.

The award ceremony will take place at the Energy Now Expo event on February 8 and 9, 2017.

To find out more about the event and register online visit www.energynowexpo.co.uk or call 01293 854405.

Lanes proves it has the power to support energy industry Drainage engineers from Lanes Group are proving they have the power to support one of the UK’s fastest growing industrial sectors renewable energy.

The company’s vacuumation and water jetting technology is proving to be suited for cleaning pipes and tanks in a range of different renewable energy plants in the industrial and farming sectors.

Lanes drainage expertise has been used to support companies developing and running sustainable energy plants in Plymouth, Newcastle, Glasgow, Sheffield and North Wales.

The Lanes Plymouth depot provides industry pipe cleaning services for MVV Environment Devonport Ltd, which operates one of the most advanced energyfrom-waste plants in the UK. The combined heat and power plant, at North Yard, www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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renewable energy Devonport, burns 254,000 tonnes of residual household, commercial and industrial waste a year.

Lanes’ electro-mechanical pipe cleaning equipment has proved ideal for cleaning inert

filtration media that builds up in pipework during the incineration process.

The Plymouth depot is also regularly commissioned by industrial cleaning specialists New Wave Marine to use

its jetting and vacuumation technology to clean pipes and tanks at a growing number of anaerobic digestion plants.

These units use microorganisms to break down organic waste, including

food and agricultural waste, generating bio-methane, which is very similar to natural gas, and carbon dioxide which can be used in industrial processes. www.lanesfordrains.co.uk.

Scot Heat & Power to supply biomass to St Andrews University’s £25m green energy project Scot Heat & Power has secured a significant competitive tender to supply biomass fuel to the University of St Andrews as part of an innovative £25million green energy project.

The Broxburn-based biomass energy specialist will supply round wood for the next five years to the Guardbridge Energy Centre – a macro-renewable project on the site of the former Curtis Fine Papers Mill – that is supporting the University’s aim of becoming the UK’s first carbon neutral institution of its kind.

The biomass Energy Centre will use virgin round wood, sourced locally from sustainably managed forests by Scot Heat & Power to produce and store hot water.

This will then be pumped four miles underground to the University’s North Haugh Campus via a district heating network that will heat and cool its administration and academic building, as well as its laboratories and residences.

The Energy Centre will use between 15,000 and 20,000 tonnes of round wood per year, worth over £3m in total, which will be supplied to a strict specification.

Established in 2010 to meet the growing demand for an environmentally sustainable means of producing renewable

heat, Scot Heat & Power says that “it is proud to be supporting the University’s comprehensive drive for carbon savings”.

The company’s Managing Director, Malcolm Snowie, said: “Scot Heat & Power is pleased to be working closely with the University of St Andrews to realise this key strategic step in

its ambition to become carbon neutral.

“In recognising the highly efficient renewable benefits of biomass energy, Scotland’s oldest university has now placed itself at the forefront of green energy innovation, allowing it to reap the rewards of lowered costs and heightened performance.

Norvento turbines chosen for community wind scheme Small Wind Co-op exceeds minimum crowd funding target, paving the way for twin-turbine wind project in Scotland Medium-scale wind turbine manufacturer, Norvento, has welcomed news that the Small Wind Co-op, a crowd-funded community scheme developed

by Sharenergy, has reached – and surpassed - its minimum fundraising target. The milestone ensures that construction can now commence at the first of two 100

planned farm-scale wind sites in Scotland and Wales.

The Small Wind Co-op has purchased two of Norvento’s nED100 100kW turbines, which are now set to be installed at Kellybank farm in Inverclyde, Scotland. Once complete, the site will be the first community-funded wind project Norvento has supplied.

Despite market challenges to the wider wind sector, including cuts to feed-in tariffs and changes to planning legislation, community-

funded schemes remain a popular means of financing the construction of small- and medium-scale wind projects. Supporters of community energy throughout the UK have responded enthusiastically to the opportunity to invest in these projects while enjoying healthy financial returns.

As part of the Small Wind Co-op, members can join from as little as £100 and earn returns up to 6.5%. Investors become members of the co-operative with a say in

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how it is run. Having raised over £1 million, surpassing its initial target of £700,000, the Co-op this week agreed to sign the purchase agreement for the two Norvento turbines.

Norvento has been active in the UK medium-scale wind market since 2013 and its technology is specifically optimised to maximise the financial and operational benefits of on-site renewable energy generation – whilst minimising grid and community impacts.

environment 2020 vision for Scotland’s biodiversity targets Scotland is well placed to meet its 2020 targets to improve its biodiversity, according to a firstyear report of an ambitious plan to improve nature across Scotland, led by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham launched the report today at Holyrood Park, a Site of Special Scientific Interest at the heart of Edinburgh actively managed for people and nature by Historic Environment Scotland.

The report is the first annual report on the progress of the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy: a Route Map to 2020. SNH has prepared the report as part of their lead role to co-ordinate and champion the strategy on behalf of Scottish Government Achievements include restoring peatlands throughout Scotland in almost twice the area set for the 2020 target – crucial work to battle the effects of climate change, among other things – and Manx shearwaters and storm petrels being recorded on the Shiant islands for the first time in recent years.

Two 2020 targets have already been exceeded: the area of Scotland’s seas now safeguarded for nature as part of the marine protected area network now stands at 16%, and 80% of our important

nature sites on land, and in rivers and lochs are in good condition.

Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Roseanna Cunningham said: “There can be no doubt that our stunning natural environment is one of Scotland’s most precious assets. How we own, manage, control and conserve it matters hugely to this Government’s ambitions for our country.

“We must ensure that this important natural asset remains in good condition now and for the future. Our work to protect and increase biodiversity is a key part of that. Healthy forests, moors, rivers and burns and our distinctive coastal plains, machair – to name but a few – deliver a huge range of benefits for the natural environment and for the health and well-being of communities across Scotland.

“That is why it is so encouraging to learn that Scotland is well on track to meet its commitments to increase biodiversity by 2020, and in fact has already exceeded many goals in key areas such as restoring peatlands, safeguarding our seas and the welcome reappearance of some species of seabird to the Shiant islands, near Lewis, for the first time in recent years.

“We will continue to champion improved biodiversity as an integral part of Scotland’s natural environment - protecting it now and encouraging future growth.”

SNH chairman, Ian Ross, said: “These projects are important as they both enrich nature and also being wider benefits to people across Scotland. Examples include the work on peatlands, which is absolutely crucial in tackling climate change – our peatlands are estimated to store ten times more carbon than in all of the UK’s trees and restoring them increases this contribution. Peatlands are one of the world’s rarest habitats and support unique wildlife. Closer to home, improving greenspace

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at hospitals has now been shown to benefit patients, visitors and staff who work there through the opportunities it provides for treatment, restoration, relaxation and exercise.

“We depend on healthy nature in our daily lives for clean water, clean air, flood protection, recreation and enjoyment and so much more. So although we’ve already made a real difference on the ground, we still have a great deal of work to do to make sure we reach or exceed all our 2020 targets and keep Scotland’s nature flourishing.”

In the first year, nearly threequarters of the Biodiversity 2020 projects are either on-track or – as with restoring peatland and protecting special places – exceeding targets. Work restoring pearl mussels, wild cats, red squirrels, golden eagles and other key aspects of Scotland’s wild life are also making good progress.

Projects are also providing lots of opportunities for people to get close to nature, improving their physical and mental health through recreation, environmental volunteering and outdoor learning.

Areas where work needs to be done to reach the 2020 targets include expanding and restoring our native woodland through 101

environment Highland Farm Efficiency Network (HiFEN)

Climate Change Focus Farms

increasing the rate of new planting and helping it recover naturally by improving deer management planning. A SNH report on deer management, to be published in October, will also provide a more detailed insight into the issues faced in increasing the rate of natural regeneration. Some

progress has already been made though: an example cited in the report is the 1,000 hectares of Caledonian pinewoods recovering at Glenmore Forest in Strathspey – which has also increased the number of capercaillie in the area.

For the full report, see www. snh.gov.uk

CCL Components launches self-developed hybrid power systems Trevor Cook, a grazing and ruminant consultant from New Zealand, recently spoke to Farming for a Better Climate Focus Group farmers in Inverness.

He described the sheep industry in New Zealand and gave some very valuable pointers as to how the NZ experienced could be applied here in Scotland and in particular, by hill farmers.

Whilst genetics determines an animal’s growth potential, it’s health status and its nutrition (quantity and quality), govern the expression of that growth potential.

Through managed controlled breeding, a 2% genetic improvement per year can be achieved and these improvements are cumulative.

Improvements can impact some or all of the traits being selected for. Note that, in NZ, selection focussing solely on fleece weight led to sheep producing fewer lambs and having more worms – single trait selection can bring unwanted side-effects !

In an ideal world, each sheep will produce multiple pregnancies, high LWG lambs, ideal feed conversion efficiency to minimise GHG emissions and maximise performance, and have the perfect maternal size.

To get as close to that as possible, careful attention to ewe management is key.

This includes body condition scoring at tupping, grazing just before, during and just after tupping with fresh grass daily during these 30 “Golden 102

Days” being ideal, and using a top team of fit tups.

Trevor pointed out that sperm takes eight weeks to be produced and any check in its production in the eight weeks before mating can cause a dip in the tup’s fertility. Accordingly, ALL ram assessment, maintenance etc tasks should be completed prior to the eight week pre-tupping date. Avoid in so far as possible any transport, shearing, vet-checking, overheating, handling stress and any infections during that period.

It was also suggested that, when choosing ewe lambs as flock replacements, only those that reached 40kg

by November 1st should be considered as they are likely to reach or have reached puberty earlier and are likely to have higher fertility as gimmers and ewes The Farming for a Better Climate autumn meetings’ theme of ewe management for lambing continues with a meeting at Clynelish Farm, Brora on October 25th entitled Maximising the Lamb Crop.

Call 01463 233266 to book your place.

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.

CCL Components, one of the UK’s largest distributors of renewable energy systems and solutions, has developed a new portable hybrid power system which it believes will enhance the off-grid energy market and provide a myriad of benefits for a wide variety of industries.

Powerplus is a flexible battery system which can be used alongside, or in place of, existing power generators to deliver major energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. With additional benefits of reduced noise pollution and significantly lower maintenance requirements, it has been estimated to deliver an average of 30-50% cost savings against conventional power generation models.

Launched at Clean Energy Live in Birmingham, Powerplus resolves many limitations of conventional power generators, such as wasted energy, high running costs and air pollution, whilst enhancing power reliability and reducing fuel consumption.

Powerplus requires minimal connections, offering true flexibility for end users. Containing its own Power Assist mechanism, the unit can switch between itself and generator power in response to fluctuating power loads to protect the entire system from damage.

With an ability to accept a solar input, Powerplus can be used as a completely fuel-free power generator, depending on load profile.

Glasgow-based CCL Components developed the new

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power system in response to a growing demand for low carbon and cost-effective power generation options for remote locations and grid-restricted areas. The idea for a commercially available hybrid power system was borne from one of CCL Components’ earlier projects in the military sector. It has invested heavily in research and development of the product, taking data from trials for products in military contexts and applying it to commercial challenges.

Paul Brooks, Operations Director of CCL Components, said: “While various countries increase their focus on reducing carbon emission and increasing their use of renewable energy, there remains a need for reliable power generation in remote locations and off-grid areas.

“We have designed Powerplus to address all of these concerns while also offering flexibility and costs savings for customers.

We believe Powerplus will be perfectly suited to a wide variety of industries and situations such as construction sites, events, telecoms, small-scale renewables or remote off-grid locations.

“We truly believe Powerplus has the potential to enhance the off-grid energy sector by changing the way customers use power – essentially saving money and reducing the impact on the environment.”

Powerplus is CCL Components’ first own-developed product and is available in 6kVA, 10kVA, 18kVA and 30kVA models.

Bumper LAMMA ’17 event predicted as exhibitor numbers climb LAMMA is set to underline its position as the UK’s largest farming machinery, equipment and services show when it returns next January With about only a few months still to go before the gates open at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, more than 750 businesses have already signed up for LAMMA ’17.

That’s more than 80% of the 2016 total, which helped to attract more than 40,000 visitors. In all, over 900 exhibitors are expected to be showcasing their wares when the event opens.

The figures reflect the continuing importance and appeal of LAMMA across the agricultural industry, despite the economic pressure being felt across all sectors, said Elisabeth Mork-Eidem, group head of events at Briefing Media, which owns LAMMA. “Our exhibitors value LAMMA for the quality faceto-face time it provides with current and prospective clients, no matter what uncertainty is in the market.

“Their fantastic support means LAMMA ’17 is shaping up to be another excellent event, providing visitors with unrivalled access to a vast array of machinery, equipment and services, which could help improve their farm productivity and bottom line.”

It’s a sentiment shared

by LAMMA’s new headline sponsor for the next three

years, Asset Finance Partners.

Matthew Smart, head of asset finance for AFP, said: “We are proud to be associated with the long tradition of LAMMA and to have been selected as headline sponsor for such an influential event.

“LAMMA is the agricultural industry’s premier event for ‘doing business’, offering a complete range of industryleading manufacturers, suppliers and service providers exhibiting their latest innovations.

“The event provides the perfect opportunity for farmers of

all types, sizes and backgrounds to look at and learn more about the very latest developments in agricultural equipment and services.

“We look forward to welcoming old, existing and new customers alike to the show.”

As last year, the 2017 event will host the most extensive array of farm machinery to be found in one location anywhere in the UK. Whether you grow wheat in Lincolnshire or milk cows in Somerset, produce caulis in Kent or manage an estate in the Highlands, there

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will be plenty of interest at LAMMA ’17.

Most leading manufacturers have signed up to attend, and many will be showing new tractors, combines, drills and cultivation equipment. Some of this will be making its first appearance on the global stage, and some will be making its UK debut, maintaining LAMMA’s reputation as a launch pad for key machinery manufacturers.

However, it’s not just the largest companies that draw the crowds. LAMMA’s ethos throughout its 36-year history has

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LAMMA 2017 been to host smaller agricultural engineering and machinery companies from across the UK and, through realistic exhibiting costs, encouraging them to showcase a wide range of products.

This combination of large and small, unique on this scale in the UK, gives visitors access to a vast array of innovative products that they will not encounter anywhere else. They can use the event to compare and contrast almost any machinery, equipment and services they might require in the flesh, rather than relying on print or the internet.

Key sectors are zoned around the showground to help visitors find what they need with the minimum of fuss. Livestock supplies, forage machinery and associated equipment are grouped together as is post-harvest technology and roots machinery.

The popular Workshop Area returns to the event,

where visitors can buy almost anything they need to tackle the simplest repair job or the most sophisticated self-build project.

Other non-machinery areas continue to develop at LAMMA. A range of companies will be demonstrating the latest advances in agronomy, and visitors can catch up on the latest business and farm management advice.

The Dealers’ Den returns to LAMMA ’17, where the main traders dealing in second-hand kit will be exhibiting. Visitors looking for used equipment can track down machinery there and then or build contacts to help them secure the right piece of kit at the time they need it.

Visitors can earn valuable BASIS and NRoSO points by attending the event and, for BASIS, by taking part in the LAMMA knowledge trail. This will use the stamp card system

“See us at Lamma 2017”

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introduced in 2016. Visitors can drop in on any of the exhibitors taking part in the process and their card will be stamped upon successful completion of the individual exhibitor’s knowledge trails, to claim a maximum of six points.

To help plan their trip to LAMMA, those intending to visit can sign up for the event newsletter to find out all the latest show news and exhibitor updates. Go to www.lammashow. com and click on the newsletter sign-up sidebar.

For further information on LAMMA ’17 go to www. lammashow.com Follow LAMMA on Twitter @ lammashow

LAMMA 2017

Improved LAMMA experience Visitors can expect an even better experience in 2017 following significant investment by the East of England Agricultural Society to the showground.

The society has developed an extensive plan to improve grass and soil, following feedback from many LAMMA exhibitors.

Jeremy Staples, East of England Society chief executive, said: “After a conversation with Ian Robertson of Sustainable Soil Management at LAMMA ’16, we have conducted a soil survey.

“With Ian’s advice we are going to treat the soil with a physical, chemical and biological approach to correct imbalances and improve the resilience of our soils.

“We are working hard to get the site back in order and improved for all the events we host on the showground throughout the year.

LAMMA is an event that we are proud to host and we look forward to working with the show and enjoying the improvements on site.”

Essential information LAMMA ’17 takes place on Wednesday 18th January between 7.30am and 5pm and Thursday 19th January between 7.30am and 4.30pm.

Venue: east of England Showground, Oundle Road, Alwalton, Peterborough, PE2 6XE. Parking and entrance to the show is free of charge.

Car parks will open early and visitors arriving between 6.30am and 8am can enjoy an early bird breakfast. LAMMA all-day breakfast is available from 8am.

A free shuttle bus service will run between Peterborough train station and the East of England Showground. The service starts at 7am until 5pm. The shuttle bus drop-off and pick-up points will be at main gate (3) near the security office. Two 53-seater buses run throughout the day.

A detailed show guide will be handed out at the entrance gates on arrival. It contains a full listing of exhibitors and a map to help navigate around the showground.

Visitor WiFi available.

For further information on LAMMA ’17 go to www.lammashow.com www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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science & technology Moredun Partners with Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre The Moredun Research Institute are now an academic partner of the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) which aims to stimulate the growth of the Industrial Biotechnology (IB) industry in Scotland. Industrial Biotechnology is an enabling technology that uses biological substances, systems and processes to produce materials, chemicals and energy.

The partnership will develop links and collaborative research projects between Moredun and

IBioIC`s industrial partners to support sustainable agriculture through improvements in livestock health. The industrial partners will benefit from Moredun’s skills and experience in proteomics, genomics and immunology applied to the development of novel livestock vaccines, diagnostic tests and disease control measures.

IBioIC, launched in 2014, has more than 65 industrial members for whom IB is of strategic importance and use or

plan to use IB in their business.

IBioIC accelerates and de-risks commercially viable projects for industry by harnessing the intellectual power of the Scottish academic and research Institutes.

The industrial members directly benefit from the collaborations with the Centre`s academic partners which include the Moredun Research Institute Dr Colin McInnes, Deputy Director of the Moredun Research Institute, commented: “I am very pleased that Moredun is now an

IBioIC academic partner, we look forward to future collaborations with the Centre`s industrial partners.”

Dr Judith Huggan, Business Development Manager at IBioIC said: “Moredun are a welcome addition to IBioIC, their expertise and knowledge of biotechnology associated with livestock health broadens the skills and capabilities that IBioIC offers to our industrial partners. This is an important sector for Scotland and we look forward to working with Moredun”

What is new in the world of animal back care Science is constantly challenging or confirming what we know from daily practice, where we know what works when treating animals and seeing a return to optimal health and performance.

McTimoney Animal Practitioners are at the forefront of this research, constantly looking to learn more about our animal friends and how to provide the best possible care, in our role in therapists and in the aftercare we give for owners to carry out too.

This year has seen several studies undertaken by McTimoney Animal Practitioners relating to back care and pain in animals, presented at prestigious International conferences. These include the 3rd International Veterinary Congress, London, August 2016 and the International Society for Equitation Science conference, Saumur, France, June 2016 This work has also been published in the Journal of Veterinary Science & Technology (7) and Journal of 106

Veterinary Behaviour: Clinical Applications and Research Sept/ Oct 2016 However, we don’t just consider the usual suspects – horses and dogs – we like to consider all animals and so this year let us start with the more unusual elephant study…

This study, by McTimoney Animal Practitioner Jan Selfridge, used African safari elephants to look at whether carrying a rider - or multiple riders - effected the weight bearing on joint and limb segment angles in fore and hind limbs of ridden elephants.

The results showed that the presence of riders significantly influenced a greater number of limb segments and joint angles in mid-stance than the presence of just a saddle. This study therefore concluded that the presence of rider weight influences limb kinematics in elephants indicating compensation for weight bearing and the potential for musculoskeletal compromise. The use of a saddle

may modify the potential for musculoskeletal compromise.

So we already knew that rider weight affected a horse’s back and limb movement, but even an animal as large as an elephant is affected too.

Rebecca Stroud, a fellow McTimoney Animal Practitioner conducted her research into the prevalence and progression of pelvic axial rotations among

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neonate foals. The importance of symmetry and musculoskeletal well-being in the ridden horse is widely acknowledged, hence the importance of McTimoney treatment to re-establish symmetry and balance in mature ridden horses across all equestrian disciplines.

For more information on your local practitioner go to www.mctimoney-animal.org.uk.

GADGETS New grain dryer control system simplifies harvest management

A new control system designed to provide reliable drying of grain and other combinable crops with minimal manual intervention will be launched at the CropTech event

by Kentra, one of the UK’s leading crop dryer manufacturers.

The Dryer Master DM510 control unit and software can be retrofitted to most continuous flow crop dryers or embedded into the control panel of a new Kentra dryer. Both installations use a pair of moisture sensors – one at the intake, one at the discharge point – to calculate and automatically adjust how long grain needs to spend passing through the dryer to achieve the target moisture level set by the operator.

Barry Higginbottom, Kentra managing director, says: “This proven technology from Canada can save valuable time otherwise spent monitoring and managing a dryer manually and can bring about significant savings in terms of energy use and unnecessary weight loss resulting from overdrying.”

The Dryer Master system comprises a highly accurate moisture sensor installed in the conveyor line taking grain from the dryer and an inlet sensor usually fitted at the top of a continuous flow dryer that detects changes in the moisture content of incoming grain.

The control software uses the readings from these sensors to calculate the residence time needed to hit an average target moisture and adjust the discharge rate accordingly.

“The ability to predict when, say, wetter incoming grain will fill the dryer takes all the guesswork out of managing the system and results in more accurate and consistent drying,” says Mr Higginbottom.

New StarFire receiver makes UK debut at CropTec

John Deere’s new generation StarFire 6000 satellite receiver has been designed to set new standards in operational accuracy and signal uptime, while also improving the connectivity of machines using the John Deere FarmSight range of precision farming solutions.

The receiver made its UK show debut at CropTec on the East of England Showground, Peterborough in November, alongside a number of new developments linked to the Operations Centre in MyJohnDeere. com, the company’s dedicated precision farming website portal.

The MyJobsConnect Premium service includes MyJobsManager and MyLogistics apps for farm,

contract and fleet managers, and a MyJobs app for operators.

The new StarFire 6000 features an improved antenna and the latest in global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signal processing technology. A new optional locking device for better theft protection is also available.

The receiver is available with an improved, free SF1 correction signal (+/-15cm, reduced from 23cm), an all-new SF3 signal with +/-3cm pass to pass accuracy and a number of major RTK (+/-2.5cm) innovations.

Newly updated dairy app holds bonus for farm vets For some time now, many farm vets have tried to highlight the benefits of not only recording, but analysing body condition score (BCS) collected on farm, to make informed decisions to assess dairy herd health and management.

However, accuracy, consistency and availability of BCS records are often sticking points, as finding a user-friendly method for farmers to record key

statistics for their herd is often difficult.

A newly updated free app, BCS Cowdition from Bayer Animal Health, is hoping to solve this issue as it guides the user through the body condition scoring process, while recording, storing, and now also analysing the stats. These BCS records can also now be sent to farm records, the vet or nutritionist directly from the app.

This provides a useful tool to help spotlight when BCS is not ideal, as in the following months these animals are high risk for lameness, for example cows which lose more than 0.5 points of BCS in the run up to peak lactation, or are calving at score 2.5 or below.

Recently published research papers* have highlighted the important link between dairy cow body condition score (BCS), and the incidence of lameness.

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estate Two exceptional farms for sale in Lanarkshire Leading Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith has launched two productive farms in Lanarkshire on to the market.

These two sales together amount to a total of 626.99 acres (254 hectares) of land for sale, the most significant area of agricultural land to come to the market in this part of central Scotland for a number of years.

Basket Farm and accompanying land at Calderdale equates to 149.69 hectares (369.88 acres) in total. The farm is a mixed use unit with grade 3.2 and grade 4.2 arable and grassland. There are a range of modern farm buildings and a silage clamp plus the potential to build a farmhouse, subject to the relevant planning consents. The land is currently used for livestock and arable and also includes areas of amenity woodland along the Calderside Glen.

The current owners have undergone a programme of improving the land and have invested in draining and re-seeding many of the fields in recent years which has significantly improved the grass swards and a number of fields have been used for cereals.

Lodgehill Farm and land at Stewartfield, by Blantyre, is a productive stock farm with an attractive three-bedroom farmhouse and an excellent range of modern farm buildings. The land and steading offers capacity for in the region of 130 cows and calves in addition to finishing or store cattle.

Lodeghill Farm extends to 46.22 hectares (257.51 acres); the accompanying land amounts to 57.78 hectares (143.38 acres) and has been used for grazing or fodder production. There has been an ongoing programme of investment to maintain the quality of land and improvements have also been made to the fixed equipment on the holding in recent years.

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Alistair Christie of CKD Galbraith, said: “The farms present a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial and productive mixed farming enterprise located in an extremely accessible location close to local amenities and Glasgow. The flexibility of the land, the quality and range of the farm buildings, coupled with the scope to add to the current residential accommodation are likely to appeal to a wide number of buyers both locally and further afield.”

The farms are both extremely accessible as they are in close proximity to each other and situated only a few miles from the M74, offering easy access to Glasgow and the south.

CKD Galbraith recently reported that Scottish farmland is in high demand with buyers coming not only from across the UK but also from Ireland and mainland Europe. CKD Galbraith has marketed £75 million worth of agricultural property over the last 12 months.

Basket Farm

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Basket Farm and the accompanying land at Calderdale, by Blantyre, is for sale either in two lots or as a whole. Lot 1: Offers Over £650,000 Lot 2: Offers Over £320,000. Or as a whole: Offers Over £920,000.

Lodgehill & Stewartfield, Blantyre, is for sale in two lots or as a whole. Lot 1: Offers Over £485,000 Lot 2: Offers Over £280,000 As a whole: Offers Over £765,000.

estate Night Master Scotland: Night Vision Service Scottish farmers needed to help GWCT partridge count

Night Master Scotland, along with professional fox controller and writer, Graeme Kelly, has launched a service to help Scottish Gamekeepers and farmers get the most from night hunting equipment.

Night vision technology can be daunting if you have never used it before. But Graeme uses the latest equipment in order to advise Keepers on the best night vision and thermal imaging gear for their specific jobs. Graeme

also provides an aftersales service to help Night Master Scotland customers start using the equipment immediately – he will fit a device to the customer’s rifle and zero it in for them. Once the device is ready to use, he will provide a demonstration on its functions and how to get the best performance from it.

For more information, contact the Night Master team on 01535 611688 or call Graeme direct on 07990 954973.

Landowners willing partners in a bright future for the Cairngorms Landowners have said they are ready and willing to be even greater delivery partners over the course of the next five-year plan for the Cairngorms National Park.

Scottish Land & Estates has submitted its response to the Cairngorms National Park Authority’s Big Park Big Questions consultation which will shape the next partnership plan between 2017 and 2022.

Working with the Park Authority and others they envisage a bright future for conservation, business and social interests in Scotland’s largest National Park.

The organisation said its members were ready to respond to the challenges identified in the consultation – but recognition also needed to be given on the positive role private estates have played, and will continue to play, in shaping the region.

Anne Gray, Senior Policy Officer (Land Use & Environment), said: “The consultation recognises most of the big questions that are faced by the Cairngorms National Park over the next five years and it should be acknowledged that the Park Authority approaches these challenges from a position

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As the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) prepares to start the autumn brood count for its Partridge Count Scheme (PCS), it is an anxious wait to see how the changeable weather conditions in Scotland this summer will have affected the breeding success of grey partridges.

“We are preparing ourselves for the fact that this may not be a good year for grey partridge broods,” comments Neville Kingdon, Partridge Count Scheme Co-ordinator at GWCT. “In general terms, the summer’s insect numbers in crops are determined by the weather in April and May. A cold, wet spring leads to fewer insects such as caterpillars, beetles and bugs. These fat, juicy, protein-rich insects are the staple food of grey partridge chicks and in the fortnight after hatching, their survival depends on insect availability around ground level. In addition, prolonged wet weather in late June, which is the time of peak hatching, brings concerns that if newly hatched chicks get cold and damp they can quickly perish.”

With changeable weather, the importance of good broodrearing cover cannot be overstated. It must be insectrich because chicks need to feed on up to 2,000 insects each per day to grow. Good brood covers mean a plentiful supply of chick-food being readily available and ensure the effects of bad weather on chick survival is minimised.

Neville Kingdon continues: “It’s not all bad news.

While not a great year, it may not as bad as we fear. Despite the unhelpful weather for insects generally, a preliminary look at our chick-food insect samples would point to it being better that 2012, which was a really bad year. So there is a chance that insects may have been sufficient or late broods might have fared better

than expected. However, the uncertainty just confirms the fact that we need to find out what has actually happened.

The PCS in Scotland will provide site-specific feedback to help land managers make targeted improvements to how they manage their land. We know farmers and gamekeepers take pride in having wild grey partridges around and it’s an easy bird for them to see and record. Now we need as many farmers and gamekeepers as possible to find out how wild greys have fared on their ground, because I don’t think many would actually want to be able to say they lost their wild greys.”

Worryingly, Scotland’s population of grey partridges may be as low as 7,500 pairs, but the GWCT estimates that Scotland could support around 30,000 wild pairs if room could again be made for the partridge habitats and beneficial management that has been lost over the past 50 years.

The PCS is a free and voluntary scheme that is open to any farmers, landowners and gamekeepers. They are invited to take part by counting their partridges and submitting the counts to our national database.

There are no restrictions on how many birds are needed to qualify. For more information on how to join the scheme go to: www. gwct.org.uk/pcs.

Wild grey partridges, as a flagship indicator species, are a great barometer of wider farmland biodiversity. What’s good for wild greys is also good for much more in Scotland’s countryside, especially other struggling farmland birds.

Meanwhile, the prestigious Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust East Lothian Grey Partridge Trophy has been awarded to Whitburgh Farms for their outstanding achievements for wild grey partridge conservation in the county.

estate The Brexit Saga

By Andrew Midgley, Projects and Research Manager at Scottish Land & Estates It is still very early days in the Brexit saga and trying to discern the likely path forward – no matter what organisation or interest you represent - is fraught with difficulty.

Although there is little certainty about the future, we have to look forward because the shape of policies that will come into force are already being influenced in ongoing debates.

Among the areas where we have focused our immediate attention are labour and trade – two important areas for Scottish agriculture.

We know the Scottish Government has placed improving the vibrancy of the rural economy as a key priority and workers from EU countries will continue to play an important role in achieving that aim.

As a result, we have asked that should free movement of labour be curtailed post-Brexit, that the UK Government prioritise the creation of a seasonal agricultural workers’ scheme enabling people to enter the UK for a specific job, for a set period of time without the right to remain afterwards.

Similar schemes have worked well in the past in agriculture.

Similarly, failing to secure strong trade opportunities for agricultural products will put Scottish and UK food security and the environment at risk.

We have yet to see clear leadership come to the fore on Brexit but Scottish agriculture is realistic enough to know that matters are likely to become even more uncertain before we establish our future landscape.

What must not happen, however, is for Scottish agriculture to face trade barriers with other parts of the UK thanks to poor decision-making at the current time. Just as the decision taken to leave the EU will change the relationship between the UK and the world, it will also require a re-evaluation of the ways of working between Westminster and Holyrood.

It is critical, therefore, that Scottish Ministers do everything possible to ensure that rural businesses in Scotland prosper from the new arrangements.

We need to ensure that Scotland’s needs are heard so that we can deliver our own objectives for farming, for the environment and for our rural communities.

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

of strength. Private landowners are already willing delivery partners and can play a vital role in collaborating and assisting in the aspects of the Park which need to be strengthened. Our members though would also like to see the final plan recognise the role of agriculture and heather moorland in shaping the special character of the Park, and to rise to the challenges of ensuring a sustainable future for these land uses.

“We have seen partnerships in the park that deal with matters of conservation, such as the Cairngorms Moorland Partnership and Cairngorms Connect. These have been inclusive models that

have encouraged buy-in from many parties and anything that can break down barriers when trying to achieve a common goal has to be welcomed.

“While there is always a range of views as to how land should be managed, particularly within our national parks, we have advocated a pragmatic response that can improve our environment but does not place unworkable restrictions on the working countryside.”

Scottish Land & Estates said that it was also important that attention is given to many of the ‘day-to-day’ issues that affect those who live and work in the park.

Polaris gains Fife’s Trust

Between the Firth of Tay and The Firth of Forth lies what is still commonly known within Scotland as the Kingdom of Fife. Custom has it the area was one of the major Pictish kingdoms, known as Fib, after the departure of the Romans.

Today’s Fife is a Local Authority and lieutenancy area with the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust looking after over forty sites, including the Fife Coastal Path and beaches, Local Nature Reserves (LNR’s)

and the Lomond Hills Regional Park. Managing the various terrains, from large water areas to ancient woodlands, calls for a maintenance team to regularly access some challenging coast and countryside environments, many of which are not reachable in 4 x 4 pick-ups.

The Trust invested in a Polaris Ranger, supplied by authorised Polaris dealers Ness Plant of Kinross, and found it the ideal solution for their needs. The Midsize side by

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estate side utility vehicle is living up to its reputation of ‘hardest working’ with exceptional cargo capacity and towing ability, together with On Demand True All-Wheel Drive ensuring it can tackle the toughest tracks.

Independent Rear Suspension, long suspension travel and high ground clearance ensure a smoother ride for the driver and passenger.

“The Polaris Ranger is in constant work,” says Ian Laing, the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s Park Manager, “it’s used by as many as six different drivers on a daily basis for everything from routine emptying of bins to carrying the gear for felling trees. It’s been totally reliable and handles terrain no ordinary 4 x 4 can get to. I don’t know how we lived without it.”

The Ranger has been ‘personalised’ in white with the Trust’s name and has a number of Polaris Lock and Ride accessories including a cab, doors and windows to keep out the elements and provide extra comfort for the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s team, in what can be the most challenging conditions.

The Fife Coastal Path alone

stretches for 117 miles of walking experiences, from the easy to the wild and demanding, while the LNRs comprise woodlands, wetlands, meadows and coastal sand dunes. The Lomond Hills, Fife’s most prominent landmark, are at the centre of twenty five square miles of moorland, lochs and farmland. The Polaris Ranger takes it all in its stride.

Investors hedge their bets on quality Scottish forestry Moness Forest Estate is an outstanding forestry, sporting and amenity estate with wind farm planning consent, located in the heart of Breadalbane in Highland Perthshire.

Brought to the market by Bidwells and John Clegg & Co at offers over £8,625,000.00, the property provides an opportunity to acquire a substantial forest estate in a stunning Highland Perthshire location including 890ha of mid-rotation Sitka spruce-dominated commercial forestry; exceptional hill

ground with deer stalking and grouse and; planning consent for a wind farm development of up to 21 Megawatts.

Not only is this a superb opportunity to own a swathe of one of the country’s most beautiful areas, it is an opportunity for the investor to buy into a much sought after market where demand outstrips supply and where the returns are real.

Investments in wellmanaged plantation forestry are increasingly valuable as the selling agents explain:

“Demand continues to be greatest for well-located, good quality, commercial Sitka sprucedominated plantations. Market evidence suggests there is no lack of liquidity in the market place, with numerous willing purchasers seeking investment opportunities.

“Following strong trading in 2014 and 2015, 2016 has seen continued high levels of interest in the commercial forest market place, with Scotland retaining its dominance in the UK sector.”

Post Scottish Referendum and Brexit, the sustained market demand for forest properties has

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been attributed to a combination of increasing capital values and an expectation of medium to long term increases in timber prices.

This position is set against the relative volatility of the wider investment market place as well as uncertainties surrounding currencies which have seen investors seek “secure” land-based investments with a traditionally low correlation to other asset classes providing a safe hedge against wider market failure.

For more information, contact Raymond Henderson, Bidwells, tel: 01738 630666,

Beatha an eilean Taghaidhean Coimisean na Croitearachd Gabhaibh pàirt a’ cuideachadh le tèarainteachd do chroitearachd san àm ri teachd.

Is e Buidheann Poblach NeoRoinneil a th’ ann an Coimisean na Croitearachd le riaghladh air croitearachd mar phrìomh dhleastanas.

Tha uallach air cuideachd airson atheagrachaidh air croitearachd, ag adhartachadh ùidhean croitearachd agus a’ cumail sùil mhionaideach air cùisean co-cheangailte ri croitearachd.

Tha An Coimisean stèidhichte ann an Taigh a’ Ghlinne Mhòir ann an Inbhir Nis le 62 neach-obrach a tha a’ coileanadh raon de dh’obraichean rianachd, leithid giullachd thagraidhean agus buileachadh cho-dhùnaidhean às leth Bòrd nan Coimiseanair.

Tha suas ri naoinear dhaoine fa leth air a’ Bhòrd le sianar Choimiseanairean a tha air an taghadh le croitearan agus suas ri triùir a tha air am fastadh le Ministearan na h-Alba. Tha an Coimisean ann

an suidheachadh gun choimeas a thaobh ’s gu bheil a’ mhòrchuid den Bhòrd air an taghadh.

Tha sinn dìreach a’ tighinn gu deireadh a’ chiad teirm 5-bliadhna de Choimisean na Croitearachd agus bidh na taghaidhean airson buill ùra don Bhòrd a’ gabhail àite sa Mhàrt 2017. Feumaidh iadsan aig a bheil ùidh ann an seasamh airson an taghaidh a bhith air an ainmeachadh ron Fhaoilleach 2017.

Ag obair mar Bhòrd, bidh na Coimiseanairean a’ tighinn còmhla agus a’ toirt an eòlais air an sgìre shònraichte aca fhèin am follais, agus faodaidh seo a bhith air a bhiadhadh a-steach do phlanaichean ro-innleachdail na buidhne gus cuideachadh le dhèanamh cinnteach gu bheil suidheachadh gun choimeas nan sgìrean eadar-dhealaichte air an riochdachadh. Aon uair

’s gu bheil Coimiseanairean air an taghadh le croitearan agus a’ suidhe air a’ Bhòrd, feumaidh iad obrachadh còmhla gus na sgìrean croitearachd air fad a riochdachadh, chan e dìreach an sgìre do bheil iad air an taghadh.

Bidh Bòrd a’ Choimisein a’ coinneachadh gach sia seachdainean agus a’ coimhead ri measgachadh de dhiofar chuspairean, leithid codhùnaidhean air cùisean toinnte, planadh ro-innleachdail, buidseatan agus riaghladh. Bidh Coimiseanairean cuideachd a’ dèiligeadh le buidhnean obaircùise, a’ cur ri freagairtean air sgrìobhainnean cochomhairleachaidh agus a’ dol a-mach a choinneachadh ri croitearan nan coimhearsnachdan fhèin agus tarsainn nan sgìrean croitearachd, a thuilleadh air cumail suas cheanglaichean le luchd-ùidhe.

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Tha e cudromach gu bheil co-dhùnaidhean dèante cho faisg ’s a ghabhas do na coimhearsnachdan croitearachd agus tha seo ga choileanadh tro bhuill bho na coimhearsnachdan croitearachd a bhith air a’ Bhòrd. Tha e deatamach gum bi na daoine sin a tha dìoghrasach mu chroitearachd a’ seasamh airson an taghadh mar Choimiseanairean agus a’ suidhe air a’ Bhòrd, agus daoine aig a bheil tuigse do na duilgheadasan dèantach ’s do na cothroman deimhinneach a tha an lùib croitearachd.

Seas airson an taghaidh mar Choimiseanair agus coilean do dhleastanas ann an cuideachadh le croitearachd a dhèanamh tèarainte san àm ri teachd. Gus tuilleadh fhaighinn a-mach, tadhail air an làraichlìn againn aig www.crofting. scotland.gov.uk.

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forestry Economic boost for Argyll timber A new floating pier is to be built on the shores of Ardcastle Forest in West Argyll which could unlock an estimated £10 million of the region’s growing timber supplies.

With harvesting on the increase and the nearby Ardrishaig Pier already extremely busy, the new pier on the National Forest Estate will boost the ability for shipping greater quantities of timber to wood processors.

With a £123,000 grant from the Scottish Government’s Strategic Timber Transport Scheme, an estimated 250,000 tonnes of timber could be shipped off the Ardcastle pier over the next 10 years.

The additional shipping facilities will be able to take larger boats in deeper water and cut down the need for using timber wagons on fragile rural roads, saving 3.5 million lorry miles.

Welcoming the new investment, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said:

“This development is excellent news for the economic growth of Scotland’s economy.

“By increasing the capacity of timber transport facilities in

Argyll, we are providing the sector with a further opportunity to build on our £1 billion forest industry success story.

“I met the Timber Transport Forum last month and highlighted

the importance of good transport solutions to help maximise business growth. I am very keen to keep driving this forward, stimulating opportunities to improve Scotland’s rural economy.”

Making Scottish forestry worth more discussed at stakeholder summit Ensuring we get the best out of forestry for Scotland’s rural economy has been discussed at a summit today organised

by Scottish Land & Estates

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and Forestry Commission Scotland.

Addressed by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus

Ewing MSP, the event held at Annandale Estates, Lockerbie, focused on what strategies are required to deliver growth over the next two decades.

The event was attended by industry representatives such as ConFor, Tilhill and Egger, as well as those representing the wood products sector, education, the environment and government agencies and was one of a series of summits focusing on the rural economy.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity Fergus Ewing said: “Today’s forestry event in Annandale – one of several rural summits I am holding across Scotland– is about listening to industry as part of my focus on building growth in our rural economy.

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“The forestry sector is at the heart of many rural communities, worth £1 billion annually and supporting at least 25,000 jobs.

This government is absolutely committed to the sector and planting more trees. Scotland created 83% of all new woodland in the UK in 2015-16 and has the most ambitious planting target in the UK of 10,000 hectares a year.

This is a target I am determined to see delivered.

“New woodland creation will help strengthen forestry’s contribution to our rural economy as well as helping to meet our climate change targets.

With the industry’s help, we will identify remaining barriers to growth and recommend potential actions to increase investment and boost jobs.”

by Linda Mellor

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE In August I undertook my annual pilgrimage up the A9 to the Moy Fieldsports Fair near Inverness. The fair takes place on Friday and Saturday during the first week in August. It is a long standing event and has been a favourite in my family for more years than I care to remember.

It’s a great venue to catch up with your more northerly based contacts and it is compact enough so you can see everyone and still enjoy all aspects of the fair. It had rained heavily on the day before the opening and as a result it was very muddy. One of the officials at the entrance gate looked at my non 4-wheel drive car and said ‘you’ll struggle getting around in that.’ So off I went to park with a strong sense of determination, I took my time but drove with a purpose and, after carefully studying the ground to gauge the depth of the water, I parked my car.

Wellies were fundamental to getting around. If you work or live in the countryside you always have a pair of wellies in the boot, along with waterproofs and midge repellent but, thankfully, neither were required at Moy. I enjoy catching up with my network of contacts at game fairs and Moy is no exception.

I spent some time at the Scottish Countryside Alliance tent catching up on the news with Director Jamie Stewart and met Sheldon Cameron, an Auctioneer and Valuer with

Mulberry Bank Auctions who travels all over Scotland and specialises in silver, arms, armoury, furniture and pictures.

Sheldon is a keen sportsman and an ex-professional polo player who represented Britain on countless occasions. In August, he secured a world record by auctioning a cask of whisky for £75,000. The Da Mhile Organic Springbank single malt Scotch whisky was distilled in 1992 and the first truly organic Scotch whisky produced in Scotland.

This exceeded the previous record, set in Hong Kong, by approximately, £25,000.

The mud did not hamper the fair’s visitors or the programme of events; it was warm and sunny throughout Friday. MSP Fergus Ewing was doing his rounds and spending time with a number of countryside organisations. I spent some time with the Scottish

Association of Country Sports and found it very rewarding to chat with Jules and Alex about the Association and our shared enthusiasm and respect for countryside. Tommy Davidson, account manager with ForFarmers UK, was equally upbeat and enjoyed the fair.

They provide speciality feeds for working dogs, game birds, horses and deer and were kept busy over the two days at the fair.

I drove back to Fife with a smile on my face and a feeling of happiness from a day well spent and, a sense of relief after I had successfully extracted my low slung sporty rear-wheel drive Merc out of the muddy car park.

David Ritchie of the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Schools Network (ASCSN) received great news in August. The network is set to receive full funding from the EU Erasmus

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programme, spread out over the next two and a half years. The ASCSN are a network of schools studying the conservation of Atlantic salmon. The aim of the network is for schools to study their local salmon river and then share this learning with the rest of the network. They are always looking to expand their network to anywhere the Atlantic salmon go. At present the network is represented in the USA, Canada, Greenland, Finland, France, Germany, Spain and Scotland.

David, a Teacher at Perth High School, told me, “There are two parts to the activities of the ASCSN, online sharing and face to face study visits. At present the Greenland students will be in Scotland week beginning 7th of November to follow the migration of the salmon to where they spawn.” And with the funding it means the Greenlanders will be joined by students from Finland, France and Germany.

A principle aim of the ASCSN is to use the Atlantic salmon as a case study for environmental management and climate change. A Further aim is to promote interaction and collaboration between organisations with responsibility for maintaining rivers and schools in close proximity to those salmon rivers. If you would like more information visit you can find them on Facebook.

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horses Yorkies purple diamond sparkles to take 2016 SEIB Search for a Star title The 2016 SEIB Insurance Brokers Search for a Star series reached a thrilling climax in the international arena at the Horse of the Year Show, as the eight class winning champions vied for the Supreme. Each put in a superb performance for their individual show, giving the judges, Robert Oliver and Katie Jerram, a difficult task in choosing their winner. But the hunter champion, Yorkies Purple Diamond,a pure Irish Draught mare owned and ridden by Vicki Rogers, was foot perfect to take the title. Joanne Jesson’s lovely show hunter pony, Greensyke Sonny Boy, ridden by 11-year-old Amelia Jesson, took reserve.

“This is a tremendous mare that really gave a good show of herself”, said judge Robert Oliver.

Katie Jerram added, “She gave me a beautiful ride, she is light in the hand which you don’t always expect with these large horses”.

Vicky Rogers, 38, from Salcombe, Devon, took the

SFAS Show Hunter of the Year title earlier in the week with Yorkies Purple Diamond, known as Lottie. The pure Irish Draught chestnut mare was bred by Gina Exley and Vicki has owned the 8-year-old since she was a yearling. “I bought her as a brood mare and she has had 2 foals”, she explained.

The mare, by Connaught Grey out of Dalton Gem is a Hornby Premium Class 1 brood mare recognised by the Irish Draught breed society of GB. Her 2-yearold filly, Corringdon Carrera, by Porche, was reserve supreme yearling at the SHGB Hunter Show. Lottie was backed as a 7-year-old and only started showing under saddle last year.

“She had just the nicest nature could not do more for you. She loved the atmosphere and hasn’t flinched all week!”, said Vicky after the championship.

“I am so proud to be a part of all this. She’s had two foals; I’ve had two children. I really am a

proper amateur and I can’t thank the SEIB team enough for all the support. I’ve only had 7 hours sleep all week, but I’ve loved

it”, she added, remembering that she would be returning to work as a special needs teacher the following morning.

Across the generations the legacy of the working horse Battle of the Somme Commemoration Finale at BHS Working Horses Day In glorious sunshine on the first of October the 700 people who attended the BHS Scotland working horse day at Meadowells Farm in the parish of Collessie, Fife courtesy of RH Black; were treated to an intimate and spectacular display of working horses and vintage machinery.

Under the leadership of Benny Duncan from Balmalcolm Clydesdales horsemen from England, Ireland and Scotland reproduced the farming year in a day when they ploughed, planted, fertilised, harrowed, followed by reaper, binder and 116

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horses cart to transport the sheaves to a barn mill where the wheat was separated from the straw. Twenty five Clydesdale horses took part in the day and were assisted both a highland and a Shetland as the Scottish native breeds put on a good show.

With gentle and well trained working horses on hand, the public were able to ask questions, handle the machinery and harness and even have a go. Our informative MC for the Day was George skinner from Strathorn Stables Aberdeenshire and his knowledgeable insight was greatly appreciated. George even took time out from his commentating to show children how to build a corn stack from the sheaves.

The legendary BHS tearoom provided soup, stovies and home baking for everyone and the event was very sociable as people

Equine Angle enjoyed the Royal Highland Society archive on Horses in War and Work in an adjacent large marquee. Side shows included mares and foals, J&K Balfour farriers making working horse shoes and a Robert Sibbald Clydesdale showing Masterclass also a forestry demonstration from James Falconer. Simon Alston demonstrated harness decorating and Jim Wallace brought his film and samples of vintage tools.

BHS Scotland is grateful to all the above and the working horsemen; Benny Duncan Balmalcolm Clydesdales, Davy Duncan from Johnshaven Ross Kinnaird, David Nelson, John McDermot from Newton Abbey, Neil McPhail from Campbeltown and Ronnie Walker. Also Davy Walker and Beverly Brown from Galcantry Clydesdales who provided free dray rides all day.

Fancy an evening with the stars?

November sees the arrival of a very special ‘one off ’ equestrian event with a charitable angle & celebrity rider focus.

The ‘Quintessentially and Mark Davies Injured Riders’

Fund Evening with the Stars’ will take place at the RAF Private Members Club in Mayfair, London on the evening of 29th November 2016. Names in the hot seat to date include Olympic

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Successful year for British riders

By Melanie Scott WHILE the Rio Olympics did not go all to plan for the British riders there’s still come interesting results.

Nick Skelton’s individual gold medal was a fairytale ending to a roller coaster Olympics. Thank goodness his first drawn jump off round with Big Star couldn’t be beaten. Standing on the podium his tears showed just how much it meant to him. Having given up riding 16 years ago after breaking his neck in a fall, the 58-year-old was contesting his seventh Olympic games.

However the team competition results were a disaster and surely the selectors must be kicking themselves, deciding against Scott Brash, who continues to rise to the top. A month after Rio he rode his former number one horse Ursula, bred in Fife by John and Mary Turnbull, to win the £3million Rolex grand prix at Spruce Meadows.

An emotional Charlotte Dujardin retained her individual gold medal from the London Olympics with Valegro. It was recently

announced that 14-yearold Valegro will be retired from competition at Olympia this December.

The British eventing team will be disappointed with their result, the dramatic cross country course caught out every British rider and it was surprising the course feedback did not get through to later riders.

Germany’s Michael Jung showed his class and could not be headed and retained his individual title.

With British Eventing performance manager Yogi Breisner retiring at the end of the year, it will be interesting to find out his replacement.

Germany have dominated since Yorkshire’s Chris Bartle took over but it has been revealed that he has applied for the top GB job. But competition will be fierce and it is rumoured Scotland’s Olympic rider Ian Stark and New Zealand Olympic rider Andrew Nicholson have also put their names forward.

This sounds encouraging and can only be good for the sport.

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horses Gold Medallist Nick Skelton and Zara Tindall, MBE and eventer with another high profile name to be confirmed shortly.

The event to raise funds for this unique equestrian charity

will feature a number of celebrity riders in the ‘hot seat’ and will be hosted by top equestrian TV presenter & commentator for the recent Olympic & Paralympic Games, Steven Wilde.

Guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment and fine dining at this exclusive and prestigious venue.

Tickets: £100 or table of 10: £950

Numbers are strictly limited, for further information: www.mdirf.co.uk +44(0) 7710 788364

Christmas is on the cards Christmas is a time of giving, so how about supporting a worthy charity and giving the gift of a great card?

The new Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund Christmas 2016 Card Collection features four unique and very different equestrian designs to capture the essence of Christmas.

The designs have been donated by leading equestrian artists Norman Thelwell, Jeanette Faulkner Clarke, Jan Martin and Caroline Cook. Presenting humorous, classical and contemporary designs, the cards are available as packs of 10, with a personalised message offered as an additional extra.

The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund is a unique equestrian charity, which was founded to help those who become injured working with or riding horses and relies entirely on donations in order continue their valuable work.

100% of all profits from card sales go directly to the charity after

production costs, offering you the joy of giving, not once but twice this festive season!

£5.99 per pack of 10 cards For purchases of eleven or more packs: £5.75 each pack of 10 cards

Free delivery also offered to Mainland UK. www.mdirf.co.uk

Equestrian Tried & Tested

By Melanie Scott

Likit Starter Kit

Contains a Likit holder plus three flavoured Likits and two 100g packs of Likit snaks.

Price: £19.99 Review: The Likit starter kit is ideal for anyone thinking of trying these innovative stable toys for the first time as it is a very good price.

It contains three flavoured licks - apple, carrot and cherry – and these are added individually to a rope that you hang from the roof of your stable.

It took some time for my horse to understand how to use it and for a horse on box rest this certainly kept them occupied for long periods of time.

Going into winter where many horses have very limited time out their stables and boredom can set in I think these are an excellent idea to help keep your horse’s mind occupied.

Contact Likit Products 01655 750523 or visit www.likit.co.uk for further information.

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futurefarmer “Survive & Thrive” Young Farmers

Resilience is not about chasing the highest price, but producing a product at the lowest cost possible was one of the key messages at The Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs Agri & Rural Affairs event focused on “surviving and thriving” within the dairy sector.

Driven by the members, for the members the event focused on how to future proof your business with resilient business management and was joined by Tony Evans, a leading figure in the dairy sector.

The group of Young Farmers from across Scotland had the opportunity to visit the SRUC Crichton Royal Farm before getting hands-on looking at their own cost of production, learning the value of more in-depth accounts and the importance of collaboration. There was a strong emphasis on building a business based on the average milk price, not the highest and making decisions based on a fiveyear business plan.

Mr Evans was very positive about the dairy sector, explain how returns on dairy production have historically been very good with plenty of opportunity for the future.

He commented “Too much capital is often the biggest downfall of a business however it is vital not to look at one element in isolation.

It is also important to make sure excuses are not used instead of addressing concerns” He continued “Discussion groups are one of the best ways to make the most of resources and become a profitable business. Open discussions generate new ideas and

can help with those difficult family discussions.”

SAYFC Agri & Rural Affairs West Representative and Chair for the day Coin Ferguson commented “It is important that as a committee we continue to offer events such as this so our members can directly engage with our industry, and further develop their knowledge and skills to help them run profitable and sustainable farming businesses” He continued “Tony was also keen to remind the members that sharing information via discussion groups is not something to shy away from, but instead be encouraged. We are looking at options to take this forward at SAYFC so our members can openly talk with like-minded, fellow Young Farmers providing them with a support network” The day was supported by the Scottish Dairy Hub, AHDB Dairy, SAOS and SRUC who highlighted some of the opportunities available in the sector, available free resources and current market trends/future projections.

Stuart Martin of the Scottish Dairy Hub added “The Scottish Dairy Hub is delighted to be involved with the Scottish Young Farmers Agri and Rural affairs group. They are strong, positive ambassadors for the industry and their input and interest at the event at the Crichton reflects this.

The dairy industry in Scotland is experiencing challenging times, and the Hub is more than happy to be involved with groups like this to help in anyway it can”

Norvite Scholarship Brings More Than Marginal Gains to SRUC Student Claire.

As honours degree students at Scotland’s Rural College plan their final year projects Mull resident Claire Simonetta already knows her objectives, thanks to a scholarship awarded by specialists in animal nutrition Norvite. Running since 2013 it presents students with a real-life investigation, backed up by the company and with SRUC educational support.

Claire, studying for a BSc Honours in Agriculture at SRUC’s Ayr campus, is the latest student to win the annual Scholarship which is the result of an innovative partnership between the company and the college. A native of Switzerland Claire moved to Scotland in 2012 and farms with her partner at Torloisk, Isle of Mull.

She is no stranger to competition success having won the Agriscot Business Skills Award in 2015 and more recently a study trip to

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Ireland courtesy of co-operative support body SAOS. “I have no doubt that undertaking the project under the supervision of Norvite and SRUC will be invaluable experience for me,” comments Claire. “It will help broaden my knowledge and enhance my agricultural studies for a successful final year at college.”

The objective of her project is to investigate if regularly used methods of assessing the production performance of commercial sheep flocks might also be useful in helping to predict their financial performance, or gross margins. It will require Claire to collect records of lambing percentages, lamb:ewe weight ratios and gross margins from a variety of commercial sheep enterprises and then explore if there is any correlation between the performance value and the

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futurefarmer related gross margin in order to find out whether the ‘lamb:ewe weight ratio’ is a more accurate financial predictor than the ‘lambing percentage’.

Norvite’s Technical Director David McClelland is delighted to continue the company’s support of the Scholarship Initiative and this year’s student winner. He comments: “Claire’s project proposal and interview clearly identified her as a strong candidate for this year’s Norvite scholarship. At a time of great market volatility and uncertainty; measuring farm output and predicting financial performance could not be more relevant. I am confident that Claire’s work will maintain the high standards of our previous scholars. This initiative continues to provide a great opportunity to develop high calibre students and

prepare them for a future career in our industry. I look forward to working with and supporting Claire in her final year.”

John Flanagan, the SRUC Livestock Lecturer who will supervise Claire’s dissertation over the coming academic year, said: “The topic that Claire has chosen is very relevant and topical in the current economic climate for sheep farmers. It will be interesting to see how she tackles the complexities of the project and to help her unlock the potential that lies within.”

“I am delighted to be given this Scholarship by Norvite, says Claire. I am looking forward to working with the combined expertise of Norvite and SRUC to produce a piece of work that will hopefully be of real use to sheep farmers wishing to maximise the return from their animals.

12 new Claas apprentices start at Barony

Twelve students recently made their first step towards a career as agricultural machinery technicians, at an Induction Day held at SRUC Barony for the latest group of apprentices to join the CLAAS Agricultural Technician Apprenticeship scheme.

CLAAS is the only major machinery manufacturer to offer an apprenticeship based in Scotland, which runs parallel to the course for English dealers based at Reaseheath in Cheshire.

Over the next four years the Barony students, who come from CLAAS dealerships in northern England, Scotland and three 120

from Ireland, will work towards achieving an Extended Diploma in Landbased Technology.

This is a high level vocational qualification that is provided

by IMI Awards, who specialise in providing qualifications and accreditations for the automotive and related industries. They have worked closely with CLAAS to ensure that the course meets their rigorous training requirements. Over the course of their Apprenticeship, the students will be continuously assessed for their competence and skills, using both work-based evidence and e-portfolios.

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Over the last three years the SAYFC Agri & Rural Affairs Committee have gone from strength to strength, developing new opportunities for their members within the agricultural sector. This is no more evident than via their annual conference which takes places for the third time this November (18th to 20th) in Aberdeen.

The event, supported

by SRUC, RBS and Massey Ferguson brings together members from across Scotland to share ideas and knowledge. The event themed “Cultivating Excellence” combines farm visits supported by Soil Essentials Ltd, breakout sessions, workshops and social dinners.

For those interested in the poultry and arable, Farmers Weekly Young Farmers of the Year 2012 Craig Grant will welcome them to Skillymarno Farm where his focus on business costs is helping him run a viable business. Marshalls Farm will host those focused on beef and diversification showcasing how they now have more control by selling direct to the consumer; and Farmers Weekly Young Farmers of the Year 2015 William Willis will lead the dairy visit inviting members to see Glasgoforest where he has a strong emphasis on technology.

The full conference will visit David and Sarah Stephen at Redhouse of Barra to see how one business is cultivating excellence by managing a number of different enterprises - beef, sheep, cereals, fruit, farm shop, tea rooms, wedding venue and lodges.

Harbro will be looking at farm efficiencies and how to get the most from your product, ANM Farm Profit programme will highlight how to make your livestock pay, RBS will focus on farm diversification and Soil Essentials will explain how to make the most of what you have to improve your outcome and the latest developments in precision agriculture.

RHASS Alan Laidlaw will talk to the full group about how to continue to strive forward when a business is cultivating excellence, and Peter Cook will manage a workshop where members are asked to put together their perfect agricultural policy. A presentation from SP Energy Networks, and panel session chaired by Pat Macray will conclude the weekend conference.

To find out more about the weekend or book your place visit www.sayfc. org/agri-and-rural-affairsconference

finance Simpsons Malt Announce Solid Year End Results The family owned company, that includes agricultural trading division McCreath, Simpson & Prentice (MSP), credited a positive end of year mainly on increasing sales into the global brewing industry and continuing strong demand from distilling customers.

The business reported a marginal decrease in profit before tax to £9.9 million (£10.4m) for the financial year ending on 31st December 2015 with turnover dipping slightly to £160.7 million (£168.7m).

Simpsons Malt, which is headquartered in Berwick-uponTweed with another malting

plant at Tivetshall St Margaret in Norfolk, continued to invest heavily in the business spending £6.9 million (£5m) primarily on speciality malt production infrastructure and packaging facilities. Since 2006, the family-owned company has invested over of £70 million at both plants.

Commenting on the figures, Simpsons Malt’s Managing Director, Tim McCreath said: “A strong home market for malt coupled with increased exports continue to drive the business, with sales surpassing the record high volumes achieved in 2014.

The prospects for our malting

Call for MSPS to challenge officials on CAP IT failure NFU Scotland has urged MSPs to use the opportunity to challenge Scottish Government officials over the flawed delivery of CAP support in 2015, and to seek assurances on what is being done to deliver 2016 payments.

The Union also urges MSPs to establish whether the IT system will ever be fit for purpose and be capable of delivering payments accurately and on time in the future.

The Union’s call comes ahead of the Scottish Parliament’s Public Audit Committee taking evidence tomorrow (Thursday 29 September) on Scottish Government’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Futures programme – the IT programme that has failed in its delivery of CAP payments to farmers and crofters.

The Union has urged committee members to consider the following when questioning Scottish Government officials responsible for the CAP futures programme.

Is Scottish Government in a position to provide clarification

on how fixes to the IT system are progressing in order to deliver outstanding 2015 payments to farmers and crofters?

Will Scottish Government outline a timeframe when official notifications will be issued to all businesses that have received payment for 2015, informing them what they have been paid and how that payment has been calculated?

Can the Scottish Government be confident that the CAP Futures programme will ever be capable of delivering payments to an acceptable standard?

Under what circumstances will businesses not receive a payment from the 2016 national loan scheme, announced last week? Will Scottish Government communicate with those ineligible for the 2016 national loan payment the reasons why, and what measures will be put in place to support them?

Will Scottish Government establish a clear protocol for the delivery of balance payments for the 2016 payment run and beyond?

NFU Scotland President Allan Bowie said: “Deep

business remain positive as we aim to benefit from the steady growth in the specialised and increasingly global craft brewing market. This lends itself to Simpsons Malt’s innovation in speciality malt.”

The merchanting division, MSP, experienced a challenging year as a result of tightened profit margins in the agricultural sector.

Tim explains: “2015 was an exceptional harvest which in turn decreased cereal prices leading to pressure on grain trading margins. The knock-on effect is that some farmers reduced their farm input expenditure: this fall in demand, coupled with an increasingly competitive marketplace had a negative impact on merchanting revenue and profits. The prospects within this sector remains challenging, however we are confident that

we can meet these head on by delivering consistently high levels of service and expertise to our farmer customers.”

Tim added: “While arable farming returns remain historically low we are pleased to be able to provide stability and certainty to a significant number of farmer growers through our tailored malting barley purchase contracts.”

Looking ahead, Tim said: “We will continue our strategy for growth by continuing to invest in our malting facilities to further secure home markets while developing global opportunities, particularly in North America. Our people are essential to this success and we will continue to invest in training and development in order to service our customers at the highest level.”

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finance flaws within the CAP futures programme, and its inability to accurately deliver 2015 support payments in a timely manner, placed the whole rural economy in jeopardy last spring.

“Audit Scotland has questioned whether the CAP futures programme will ever be fit for purpose and this evidence session provides MSPs with an opportunity to drill down on the reasons for that failure and for key Scottish Government officials to identify what is being done to rectify the failings.

“The blunt truth is that, as we near the end of September, there are almost 700 farmers and crofters who have yet to receive some or all of their 2015 basic payments.

Combined with balance payments outstanding from other schemes, that means tens of millions of pounds are still missing from the Scottish economy and the flawed IT

system is primarily to blame.

“It is totally unacceptable that technical glitches still hinder the ability of officials to give an unambiguous reason to claimants as to why they have not been paid, as well as a clear timetable for when their payment will be received.

“In addition to this, many businesses that have received a payment in full or in part for 2015 schemes are yet to receive an official statement confirming how their payment has been calculated and what schemes each payment relates to. That is vital for tax and accounting purposes and Scottish Government must give a date as to when these notifications will be issued.

“Last week, Cabinet Secretary Fergus Ewing announced that there is to be a national loan scheme launched shortly which will provide a very welcome tranche of funding into the rural economy

in November – a move welcomed by NFUS. This nationally-funded scheme will inject around £300 million into the rural economy following an extended period of stagnation as a result of low commodity prices across the board as well as the delay in 2015 payments.

“However, it must be acknowledged that this measure, however welcome, is an admission that the IT system is still incapable of delivering CAP funds in a timely and effective manner for the 2016 payment run.

This evidence session provides an opportunity for MSPs to identify what is being done to address that.

“NFUS understands that of around 18,300 businesses eligible to receive CAP support, 17,000 will receive a letter from Scottish Government this week inviting them to opt in to the 2016 national loan scheme.

“It is imperative that Scottish Government urgently communicates to the 1300 businesses who are not being

offered loans why they are not being included in the national scheme and what measures will be put in place to support them.

“If this is the same group of businesses yet to be supported from 2015 arrangements then it is unacceptable that they should be punished financially again when the inability of the IT system to properly process their claims is at the heart of the problem.

“Looking beyond the stopgap provided by the national loan scheme, NFUS also urges Scottish Government to establish and announce at the earliest opportunity a clear protocol for the delivery of balance payments for the 2016 payment run and beyond.

“If the delay in payments and IT problems are to be a chronic fixture in the future, then claimants must be updated on a regular basis on how any fixes are progressing and ultimately when they can realistically expect to receive payment.”

Agricultural wage negotiations in new timeframe Scottish Land & Estates and NFU Scotland have welcomed the decision by the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB) to change the effective date of annual changes to the Scottish Agricultural Minimum Wage rate.

The SAWB has taken the decision to delay its annual wage negotiations until later in the year in order to align it with the new timeframe for the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage changes. This means that no new Agricultural Wages Order will be published until 1 April 2017.

The SAWB normally meets in June each year to negotiate the minimum agricultural wage 122

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and other minimum terms of conditions to take effect from 1 October. This date used to coincide with the annual change in National Minimum Wage.

With the introduction of the National Living Wage, which is set on the 1 April each year, the Government has decided that the National Minimum Wage will also be set from the 1 April each year therefore bringing the timing of changes to both in to line.

However, while there have been no agricultural wage negotiations this year, employers and employees are reminded that the minimum rate of pay for agricultural workers cannot fall below either the National

finance Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage.

With effect from 1 October 2016, the National Minimum Wage for all workers aged up to and including 24 years of age – and in the first 26 weeks of employment - will rise from its current level of £6.70 per hour to £6.95 per hour. That means, in effect, that there will be a new minimum agricultural wage rate from that date.

Katy Dickson, Senior Policy Officer at Scottish Land & Estates and Scott Walker, Chief Executive at NFU Scotland said, in a joint statement: “Our members welcome this common sense approach which avoids six monthly changes each and every year to the agricultural wage rates.

“However, we believe this situation once again is an indication that, while the

THEMONEYMAN Scottish Agricultural Wages Board used to serve a valuable purpose, it is now no longer required. It is an unnecessary extra layer of bureaucracy, which can lead to confusion for both employers and employees.

“Scottish Land & Estates and NFU Scotland fully support employees being well paid and offered good working conditions.

With the introduction of the new National Living Wage there is no longer a need for agriculture to be singled out as the only industry with a Board that sets minimum rates of pay.

“Discussions on rates of pay are best left to individual employers and the employees that work for them. These talks can then properly take into account the differing conditions which operate in different farming enterprises and different businesses.”

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We can help. We have considerable success in achieving redress and rebates.

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Biomass, Anaerobic Digesters and the like…

By Andrew Turnbull

Many finance providers will happily fund standard assets such as tractors, combines and run-of-the-mill implements but it becomes more of a challenge to source capital for the more “quirky” assets and situations.

For example, the growth in the number of farmers investing in biomass projects and anaerobic digesters has brought special challenges when it comes to finding finance.

There are a number of reasons for this.

First, the nature of these projects is such that traditional HP may not be appropriate since the plant will very likely be an integral part of a farm building not lending itself to a hire purchase contract.

Secondly, the funder may have reservations about the “supplier” (especially if they are an agent rather than the manufacturer) when it comes

to considering the thorny problem of “merchantable quality” should there be a dispute between the farmer and the installer if the goods fail to meet expectations.

Under an HP agreement the funder may become liable, in certain circumstances, to compensate the farmer if the supplier can’t (or won’t).

Thirdly, often such installations require to be paid by instalments at the different stages of commissioning and HP funders are not keen to lend by tranches.

For these reasons it may be easier to negotiate a “commercial loan” which gets round many of the niggling problems that arise in the more “quirky” projects.

There are a number of funders now in this market (including some of the traditional HP companies) and it is worth shopping around, as always, to get the most appropriate deal.

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 123

machinery Blaney’s new Forager X10 isn’t a best seller by chance The Forager X10 bale unroller, designed and manufactured by Blaney Agri in Co Antrim is the result of nine years’ intensive product development. Blaney have a long running history of making these machines, and with an ethos of innovation and continual improvement, this bale unroller has evolved over the years to incorporate a host of improvements and enhancements to exceed expectations, with a new model launched in Winter 2015. Blaney is a truly innovative company, only taking on product design where they can add value and innovation to improve efficiencies in terms of savings in time or fuel and to enhance performance.

The Forager X10 is now a well proven, life-changing piece of equipment and for many customers

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%.

Perthshire farmer Donald Menzies says “Before I got my Forager X10L, I had to wait at least 2 hours a day on my diet feeder mixing, tying up my tractor and using a lot of fuel. Now with the Forager X10L I get all the feeding done in just half an hour”.

Siromer Tractors: Nationwide Support with Partner Dealers Siromer Tractors are a leading name in the compact tractor and equipment market having

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successfully sold over 3500 tractors in the UK since the family owned company was formed in 1999.

With a tractor range that spans 16 - 75hp, together with a huge choice of equipment, Siromer is your one stop shop for all your farming needs. The tractors are available in a flat packed option for the lower 16hp - 25hp models, giving you the opportunity to build your own, which many customers love to do and which also gives a good insight into the workings of the tractor. The larger 40hp - 75hp models are pre-assembled in the UK by Siromer’s experienced mechanics.

Each piece of machinery is made to exacting high standards, with the Siromer team

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working in close partnership with manufacturers to redesign specifications in order to provide customers with highly efficient compact tractors that are easy to use and most importantly are affordable.

Prices range from £3995+VAT for a 16hp to £18500+VAT for a 75hp with cab. All tractors are 4WD, with models featuring either a Creeper or Shuttle Gearbox and the option of Turf or Agricultural tyres.

From their Head Office, based in the beautiful Lancashire countryside, Siromer have developed a network of Partner Dealers, located throughout the UK, giving customers easy access to their products and services.

machinery New 12m Horsch Terrano FM expands CTF line up

The new 10m and 12m Terrano features the same Revolver transport system as the larger Joker 10 and 12 RT, enabling it to be folded to a 3m transport width.

“Although a wide range of widths can be used in CTF, 9m, 10m and 12m CTF systems are proving the most popular, with combines, cultivators, drills and sprayers all working on common track width and

spacing,” explains Stephen Burcham, General Manager at Horsch UK. “All of our 10m and 12m cultivators and drills are designed to be easily folded to a 3m, essential for flexibility when operating at these wider widths.”

The new Terrano joins Horsch’s leading range of 10m and 12m machines, which now includes the Joker disc cultivator, Sprinter tine drill and 12m Pronto disc drill.

Kuhn supersizes its range of grass rakes The new 10m and 12m Terrano FM cultivators is the latest model in a growing range of HORSCH products aimed at farmers operating a controlled traffic farming system.

The tine-based trailed cultivator features the same 4-bar design and 28cm tine spacing as the smaller 5m to 7m Terrano FM models

currently available, making it ideal for shallow and deep cultivation in a wide range of conditions, yet without a high power requirement.

The high clearance prevents clogging even in large quantities of harvest residue and the secondgeneration TerraGrip tines have 570kg release force to provide precise coulter control.

KUHN Farm Machinery has super-sized its range of grass rakes with the addition of a 15 metre trailed version of its popular GA Gyrorake.

The GA 15131 is the largest in KUHN’s range of four-rotor grass rakes, offering a variable working width of between 9.50 and 14.70 metres. The brand

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new trailed machine adds to the existing GA range which also includes a 13 metre trailed model, the GA 13131 and two semi-mounted machines, the GA 8731 (7.70 to 8.60m working width) and GA 9531 (8.40 to 9.30m working width) machines.

The GA 15131 is designed for use on farms where a high

machinery increase front rotor speed by up to 20% when working in lighter crops.

The four rotors work together to create one perfectly formed central windrow (from 140 to 250cm in width) and are controlled via a cab-mounted VT50 series terminal which is

work output is required and features four rotors. The front two rotors are fitted with 13 tine arms, while the rearward rotors are equipped with 15 tine arms – all are fitted with four tines per arm.

Each rotor is mounted on four pivoting, large diameter wheels for excellent ground contouring and high load bearing. The wheels sit close to the tines

to further improve ground following, while KUHN’s three dimensional rotor suspension system provides even greater stability when working at high speeds.

Rotor working height can be adjusted hydraulically as standard, with all four rotors powered by KUHN’s headstockmounted hydraulic drive unit which gives the option to

Axial-Flow 240 series combines get revolutionary new chopper option for 2017

In a move designed to optimise straw processing, distribution and breakdown to benefit subsequent crop growth, Case IH has become the first combine manufacturer to work with Canadian firm Redekop to bring its MAV (Maximum Air Velocity) straw chopper design to the UK market, forming part of a new Axial-Flow Xtra-Chopping package.

With straw and stubble management becoming an increasingly important part of following crop establishment where minimum or no tillage systems are practised, the new package creates a finer chop and more even spread of straw, leading to faster decomposition and incorporation into the soil. After two years of trials here, during which Case IH engineers have worked closely with those from Redekop to ensure the package’s suitability for UK conditions, XtraChopping will be an option for the flagship 240 series Axial-Flow 128

ISOBUS compatible and which allows operating sequences to be pre-programmed for easy u-turns. Each rotor can be lifted individually for a perfect finish and to give the machine high ground clearance for ease of manoeuvring and unhindered travel across uneven terrain.

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models for the 2016-17 sales year, and can be retro-fitted to existing 230 and 240 series combines.

Xtra-Chopping retains the existing integral two-speed Case IH Magna-Cut 120-blade chopper, this being used as a discharge beater to pre-chop residue and propel it into the hood-mounted Redekop MAV chopper. Internal brackets and deflectors are removed to expose the total internal width of the combine, and the Redekop MAV chopper is then fitted to the combine’s upper frame, with a new full-width internal chop-toswath door also being installed, and crop deflectors fitted to the integral chopper concave.

Existing actuators and speed sensors are retained when the driveline from the combine to the Redekop chopper is installed and the fitment completed, with XtraChopping then fully controllable via the combine’s AFS Pro 700 terminal. The rear access ladder is unaffected.

machinery SlurryKat rolls out two new ranges of shear grabs

Two new ranges of high quality sheargrabs developed and produced by SlurryKat have just entered the market in time for the winter feeding period.

This is the first time the popular Northern Ireland machinery manufacturer has

ventured into producing sheargrabs but was encouraged to do so by a number of farmers who were having problems with their own models.

The design team at SlurryKat heard how other sheargrabs were having difficulty handling silage

and maize with high dry matter contents.

SlurryKat realised the importance of operating an efficient sheargrab with plenty of ram power to make the daily chore of feeding cattle as quick as possible without wasting time waiting on a grab closing.

The brief for the designers was to come up with a series of grabs that would reduce cutting waste and have enough force to cut the silage block quickly and efficiently.

Two ranges of grabs of various sizes were developed namely the Farmcut range offering four models from 1.35m (4’4”) wide up to 1.95m (6’4”) wide.

The second Procut range consists of four models from 1.95m (6’4”) up to 2.55m (8’3”).

The Farmcut range is designed for the smaller, less intensive livestock farm and the Procut range has a deeper, higher capacity cutter and is designed for large intensive livestock, dairy farms and Biogas plants.

SlurryKat maintain its range of block cutters are the most superior and efficient available on the market because they are manufactured from unique high tensile grade steel and Hardox steel which will provide many years of life in this high stress application.

The larger grabs are available with two or three ram options which are uniquely designed hydraulic cylinders that provide 25 per cent more power compared to what other grab manufacturers use.

Prices start at £1825.00 for the Farmcut 1350 model.

Amazone purchases Vogel & Noot plough production The Amazone Group has purchased the plough production facility of the company Vogel & Noot based in Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary.

As part of a bidding consortium, a total of three investors were awarded major parts of the Vogel & Noot Group on September 19th 2016. From this process Amazone secured the plough production including the rights to all the range of ploughs.

As was maybe previously known, the parent company, Vogel & Noot Landmaschinen

GmbH & Co KG in Wartberg, Austria, had filed for insolvency at the beginning of August 2016. The subsidiary in Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary though was not insolvent and will be taken over completely by Amazone.Amazone will use the Vogel & Noot range of ploughs to complement its own range of products and this acquisition

by Amazone will also ensure continuity in the provision of spare parts for the current range of Vogel & Noot ploughs as well.

Experts on hand to talk Sky Drills at Croptec Experts from OPICO will be on hand at the Croptec event to give advice on the innovative Sky drill range, particularly helpful for growers considering how to move forward with notill, min-till, cover cropping or companion crops.

The unique design of the drills offers great versatility, 130

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providing high capacity drilling solutions across a range of soil conditions and cultivation systems, allowing a wide window of crop establishment.

The MaxiDrill is designed to provide a high speed minimum tillage drilling solution with the flexibility to work in a conventional plough-based cultivation system,

machinery and also as a no-till drill in light soils. Moreover its clever design allows drilling to continue even when conditions turn sticky.

The EasyDrill is specifically designed as a direct drill but works equally well in minimum tillage conditions, on consolidated ploughed soil and when drilling into cover crops.

This drill can be fitted with up to three separate hoppers to allow conventional drilling to take place alongside fertiliser application, cover crop drilling or slug pellet application.

An electric driven metering system allows easy calibration, accurate setting and variable rate as standard. The primary seed is drilled using the disc coulter and the secondary product (often fertiliser) is applied by dedicated coulters in front of the press wheels. If an additional ‘pro hopper’ is fitted for a third microgranular product or small seed size,

this is metered into either the seed or fertiliser distribution systems and drilled with one

product or the other. The use of two separate air circuits to supply the seed and the

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fertiliser allows the products to be drilled at two different depths.

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machinery You could save up to £500 on a new Polaris Polaris is offering substantial savings with autumn special offers on new Polaris Ranger utility vehicles and utility ATVs. From Monday 3rd October you can take advantage of a special discount of £500 off the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of a new Polaris Ranger utility vehicle or you can have a discount of £250 off the MSRP of a new utility Polaris Sportsman ATV. Polaris offers the widest choice of proven 4 x 4 utility vehicles and accessories so there will be a Polaris to suit any business users needs from farming to landscaping, local authorities to large estates, in fact anywhere that calls for rugged, dependable 4x4 off-roading.

In addition to these offers, members of the NFU, NFU Scotland and Ulster Farmers Union benefit from an additional

5% discount on selected new Polaris utility vehicles. Polaris is a world leader and European No.1 in 4x4 ATVs and utility vehicles,

with an extensive range that is best viewed at an authorised Polaris dealer who will provide full details of the offers.

Offers close on the 30th December 2016. Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polarisbritain.com

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machinery Return of more compact forage wagon will aid operations in space-restricted areas In response to market demand, OPICO is re-introducing the Strautmann Giga Vitesse 3201. This more compact forage wagon will give better access and manoeuvrability in situations where space is restricted.

OPICO’s James Woolway explains: “The 3601 model of the Giga Vitesse is the best-selling forage wagon in Strautmann’s range.

Contractors and large scale farmers appreciate its size and capacity, and the CFS chopping rotor with its 45 knives which enable a consistent 35mm chop length.

“However, in the UK, some contractors have customers

where space restrictions add challenges to efficiency in forage operations. Hence we are re-launching the 3201 model which has the same features as the 3601, but is one section, 1m, shorter in length: 8.42m long, not 9.42m.”

The Giga Vitesse 3201 will be re-introduced to the UK for the 2017 season, after three years of absence. Price, £74,330+VAT. A Giga Vitesse 3201 will be on display on the Strautmann stand at The Dairy Show on 5th October at the Bath and West Showground in Shepton Mallet.

A 2-year 0% finance scheme is available on all Strautmann

forage wagons purchased before 30th November. More information on Strautmann’s

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range can also be found at www. strautmann.co.uk or by calling OPICO on 01778 421111.

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country woman Fiona Guest

By Linda Mellor

Fiona Guest

Fiona Guest was born in Stafford, her dad was in the RAF and when he was posted back to Leuchars after a spell in Germany and they made Fife their home. From an early age, Fiona loved the outdoors, going horse riding and spending time on her Uncle’s dairy farm in Thornhill, Drumfries and Galloway.

“It was my husband who got me interested in fishing,” said Fiona. When she was pregnant with their daughter Murron she wanted to find out what the fishing was all about so she would tag along with hubby Graham. “It was a great way to get exercise and fresh air; we would take a flask of tea and some sandwiches. It was so relaxing. I have always been a great walker and enjoyed all the sights and sounds of the outdoors. There is a great feeling of freedom and I love hearing the bird sounds. I have caught sight of a Kingfisher on the river but it 134

moves so quickly it’s just a blue flash.”

The family live in a village near Cupar and the Eden is Fiona’s local river.

When Murron started school Fiona had more free time and was back out on the river and got her own rod.

Laughing, Fiona explained it wasn’t technically her own rod, “Actually, Graham had bought himself a new spinning rod, and I saw it and thought I will have that!”

“It took me a few years to perfect the ‘Eden flick’.” Fiona described mastering this local technique because, if you didn’t, you were likely to get your line snagged in the trees or the bushes on the opposite bank. “I think it took me 2 to 3 years to get the flick right. You need to get the lure moving and it is just a quick flick of the wrist. My lures are quite expensive so losing them is rather painful. The Eden is a narrow river and sometimes you see line hanging from the trees.”

Fiona and Graham always fish together, “even though we don’t speak much to one another we always fish quite closely.

Graham does go out fishing by himself but there is something very nice in fishing together and we are always very happy if one of us catches a fish.”

“I don’t like wading, when you are standing in the water you can really feel the force of it and I find it unnerving if I can’t see where my feet are or where the big rocks are. I have Rock Hopper wading boots and they give me a good grip but if I can avoid wading, I will.”

About 3 years ago Fiona took Graham to the River Tay for his 30th birthday treat. They spend the night in Birnam and fished on the Newtyle beat with Ghillie Andy Gunn. Parking up at Newtyle she was overawed by the sheer size of the river but couldn’t wait to start fishing it. “We had a great day. It was amazing going from such a small

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river to a river the size of the Tay and we both caught fish.” In the morning Graham caught a 9lb Salmon and shortly after lunch it was Fiona’s turn.

“Andy had told us to fish the Boil pool down to the Steps pool. Fiona was ‘balancing on the stones’ and had cast out her spinning rod 3 or 4 times when she caught something. “At first, I thought I had snagged but then it fought back. Graham was beside me and told me to keep my rod up. Andy saw the fight I was having and rowed across as fast as he could. We got the 10lb fish into the net, took a photo and released it.”

Fiona was delighted at catching her first salmon. “I was trembling with excitement and my hand was shaking with the sheer weight of the fish and trying to bring it in.”

Fiona had also been nursing a tennis elbow and had been on painkillers but said: “Nothing gets in between me and my fishing!”

country woman Ghillie Andy asked Fiona back to Newtyle to do the opening ceremony on the Tay the following season. “What a terrifying thing to do, I had never done anything like that before but it was an experience and a half. It was a rainy cold day and as I’m not keen on the smell of the whisky so I tried to keep it at a distance when it was poured from the Quaich into the river.”

One year on, Fiona caught a 16lb salmon on the Eden and won herself the Stan Reed Cup for catching the best (biggest) fish that season. “I used a yellow flying C because of the colour of the water, it had been high but had dropped off so I wanted something bright. It was amazing feeling catching and releasing the big hen fish.”

Fiona would like to try fly fishing. “It would open up more rivers for us. Graham can fly fish and I would like to be able to do it. At the moment it is completely alien to me, I have tried to do it once or twice but I was useless

and kept forgetting I wasn’t spinning!” Smiling, she said, “I am hoping Santa Claus may bring me a few lessons.”

When Graham isn’t working off-shore, he and Fiona are out fishing at every opportunity, sometimes 5 days a week. “I do like company when I go out fishing; it is not something I would like to do on my own.

Murron has taken to it and on her first day out she caught a brown trout and now she thinks she will catch a fish each time she goes out. We bought her a permit (only £10) and a pink rod which has little flashing lights on the reel.”

The couple had a great day’s fishing at Meikleour at the end of August. Fiona said, “It was really hard going due to the weather. It was supposed to be cool and overcast but it was sunny and very hot.” Fiona will no doubt be making the most of the Eden before the season closes at the end of October and will hopefully have her eye on a big salmon.

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Southern Belle the best laid plans As sale time draws to a close, everyone breaths a sigh of relief that its all over for another year. Some look back and are happy with their season and others just hope for a better lambing next year. Good plan.

While I’ve enjoyed sale season, it will be remembered for all of the wrong reasons. Committees make rules they think everyone else should abide by but the same rules don’t necessarily apply to them.

Appointing inspectors then refusing to stick by their decision is a major pain in the bottom.(rant over) Not however, the worst thing that happened.

After driving for six hours to steward a sale, I arrived to find one of the inspectors hadn’t turned up. With no one else immediately available, yours truly decided to help . Good plan. Not however, while wearing my best jacket. I carefully took my jacket and trousers off and replaced them with the obligatory smelly working ones from the boot of the car. Mission accomplished, it was time to grab the rosettes and my stewarding

attire and get to the judging ring. Good plan, if some person of dubious parentage hadn’t stollen my bloomin clothes. I was totally gutted and announced as much from the rostrum along the lines of “I will hunt you down, etc.”

No luck...no honesty... no apology.

Back in the car for six hours smelling like an old tup, stopping at a service station with people sniffing and giving me a wide bearth and arriving home to “what the hell is that smell?!”

Good plan to take all of my clothes off in the kitchen and put them straight into the washing machine.

Great plan unless the Tesco delivery man comes to your glass kitchen door to deliver the order. Poor plan to scream and run to the only area of the kitchen which doesn’t have a door!

Good plan for other half to distract the shocked Tesco man allowing me time to make a speedy exit and time for him to deal with the groceries and pour me a nice glass of red. Best plan of the day.

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@home

It is almost ‘Drinkies O’clock!

As the festive season draws ever nearer, here are a trio of ideas for that yuletide feeling Christmas “Festive Noel” Glass Decorations

Why not welcome your guests with these jolly stylish glass decorations to add some extra interest to your festive table.

Made from sturdy card, these holly decorations – part of the Neveti Festive Noel range – can be used with a variety of glassware, from tumblers to champagne flutes.

Used alone or combined with other pieces in the collection, these unusual decorations add some festive colour to your table arrangements.

Pack of 10 Price: £3.49 Stockist information: www.neviti.com

“Lighthouse” Cocktail Shaker

Now we all love cocktails, so why not recall the glamour of the twenties and give your shaking skills a boost with this unique and delightful cocktail shaker, intricately crafted in the form of a lighthouse in brass plated stainless steel.

Dimensions: 35.2H x 12.7 Dia cm Shown with pair of cocktail glasses (£24.95) and bevelled mirror Art Deco style tray (£79.95) also available from www.annabeljames. co.uk Price: £139.95 Stockist information: www.annabeljames.co.uk

Gilt Mirrored Drinks Trolley Keeping up the retro theme here. Why not impress your guests with this pretty and practical vintage style mirrored bar trolley.

The gilt luxury adds that extra sparkle when serving your cocktails, and of course, with the right sounds wafting from your vinyl record player, The Great Gatsby would be proud of you. Go on, spoil yourself!

Price: £295.00 Stockist information: www.miafleur.com 136

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Great Scots

From small beginnings…

170 years after his death the legacy of Rev Henry Duncan lives on

By Fiona Sloan The one street village of Ruthwell on the Solway coast, which most people will never have heard, was in the 18th century the centre of a one-time poor rural community.

However, it was where a man of great vision and compassion would make his mark on the world and leave a legacy, which continues to this day.

Henry Duncan was born in 1774 and following a good education at Dumfries Academy, he spent time at Glasgow, Edinburgh and St. Andrews universities and during which time was found a place at Heywood Bank in Liverpool, by family friend, Dr James Currie, the biographer of Robert Burns. When Henry was 18, Burns visited the family and on departing his father declared “Look well boys, at Mr Burns, for you will never again see so great a

Rev. Henry Duncan

genius.” He was not to know that the young Henry Duncan would also have a profound effect on the world.

The cost of long war with France and the turmoil in Europe and Britain which followed, saw huge taxes introduced to pay for the cost. The need for social reform became desperate and the sweep of the Industrial Revolution caused poor conditions and high costs, with grain soaring by 358% in 15 months, which was catastrophic for rural communities.

Agricultural labourers were earning the equivalent of 5p per day and work was casual and seasonal.

Combined with a few bad harvests, many rural communities were left devastated.

Driven by a need to see social justice, Henry Duncan followed his father and grandfather into the ministry and having been offered two other more lucrative parishes, he chose the poor parish of Ruthwell bringing his formidable energy, foresight and skills to help a community ravaged by the consequences of poverty.

He revived the Friendly Society and persuaded local landowner, the Earl of Mansfield, to donate a derelict cottage in the village and convert it to a Society Room, which would become the focus of the community and ultimately the birth place of The Trustee Savings Bank. It was his desire to do something of lasting

value for the under-privileged that led him to found the first ever savings bank in the world in a small cottage in Ruthwell.

At a time when a deposit of £10 (a farm worker’s monthly wage) was require to open a bank account, Henry would open a savings account with sixpence and pay 5% interest on the balance. This allowed villagers to save for times when there was little employment or funerals to pay for.

On 10th May, 1810, he opened the first ledger in The Society Room, and with support from wealthier members of the community, burghs and parliament, at the end of the first year, funds stood at £151. Despite earning only £300 per year from his stipend, Duncan courted publicity for his cause at his own expense and set up two newspapers, to bring national and international news to the area. He even paid for a shipment of grain to plant to improve the local crops.

His ministry took him to the pinnacle of his church as Moderator

of The General Assembly, from where he was part of the reform of the church, enabling people to choose their own minister and helped found The Free Church of Scotland.

He helped restore the famous Ruthwell Cross, which had been dismantled and hidden in the parish following it’s condemnation by The Church of Scotland, during the Reformation in 1642, now recognised as the oldest Celtic cross in mainland UK. It was however, his dedication to improving the plight of the poor that has left a lasting legacy. Two Hundred and six years since the foundation of the first savings bank, Dr Henry Duncan’s model has been recreated throughout the world and there are currently around 209,000 savings banks and related organisations in 92 countries.

Trustee Savings Bank Museum Ruthwell

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137

lifestyle Sixties style wedding dress in Tweed

This beautiful wedding dress is new to the Timothy Foxx Wedding & Special Occasions Collection. Officially launched at the Burghley Horse Trials, the Timothy Foxx Cassidy Tweed Wedding Dress takes vintage inspiration from a 1960’s feminine silhouette with a bateau neckline and structured front bodice with low back.

This stunning dress is finished off with a striking full skirt with a raised hem at the front, falling beautifully into a stunning ankle length back. Complete with a waistband of ribbon and appliqued, beaded detail to the front, this dress is completely made to measure and totally bespoke. With numerous customisation options and over 20 beautiful tweeds available, your dream (Tweed) wedding dress is now a reality!

To book in a consultation please contact TFHQ on 01296 423399 or email weddings@timothyfoxx.co.uk to discuss your requirements you may have. Deposit required. Please allow at least 15 weeks from order to delivery, dependent on complexity of design.

Autumn welcomes Akeley The Equetech Akeley Quilted Jacket fuses fashion with practical winter riding wear in one gorgeous garment. Featuring a technical lightweight BioDown insulated inner and wind resistant outer with a showerproof finish.

Add to the mix, style details such as Rose Gold trims, double back vents, storm flap, two way zip, machine washable label and the brand’s exclusive designer ‘Snaffle’ print lining and you have a jacket that crosses over from saddle to the city with ease!

Sizes: XS - XXL RRP: £121.95 Colours: Navy www.equetech.com 138

What A Trilogy!

The Equetech 3 In 1 Trilogy Jacket offers fashion conscious riders two jackets in one clever design.

Featuring a waterproof, wind resistant outer shell, the gorgeous snug full-length quilted jacket also features a shorter smart lightweight zip out quilted lightweight jacket!

Designed to be worn in three different ways, the jacket can be worn in its entirety or the inner jacket zipped out for milder day wear and the outer longer layer for less artic weather this winter!

Featuring other great design details such as snaffle zip pulls in Silver, two way zip, storm flap, detachable waterproof hood, long zip to back hem of outer jacket for use in the saddle.

A stunning jacket as changeable as our weather!

Sizes: XS - XL RRP: £145.95 Colours: Black www.equetech.com

Get carried away this Christmas!

French saddlery brand Childéric Saddles are renown for their beautiful bespoke saddles and accessories and now you can appreciate their exquisite craftsmanship and quality leather in a high fashion handbag!

The ‘Childéric Spring 40 Handbag’ takes designer detailing to a whole new level with an off the peg design with bespoke options. Styled in buttery soft grain or smooth calfskin leather, this tote handbag features reinforced detailing on the base sides and contrast stitching around the central seam and supporting the neat drawstring leather toggle system at the top of the bag complimenting it’s trapeze body. With a whole collection of handbags and luggage available, you can also adapt with their bespoke service to suit your taste, style and colour. The very same signature ‘Luc Childéric’

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logo that is proudly stamped on all their saddles is also featured on each and every bag and with two round top handles, you will want to get (this) carried away this Christmas!

RRP: £726.00 Colours available: Over Colour Ways www.childericsaddles.co.uk

25

lifestyle

RS rural

Smart jackets for smart boys and men This Equetech Berkeley Tweed Riding Jacket is styled in an exclusive Equetech Green herringbone tweed with a stunning autumnal Green and Copper overlay plaid.

Lined with a rich Gold Equetech jacquard lining, this jacket features flap pockets with concealed zip and a clever Teflon coating for a showerproof finish.

A gorgeous competition or hunting jacket, which compliments traditional with contemporary styling and fabric technology Teen Boys Sizes: 34, 36 RRP: £125.95 Men’s Sizes: 38 - 48 RRP: £152.50 Colours: Green www.equetech.com

STYLE

By Helen Burness

Hunting For The Perfect Jacket?

No More Frosty Feet This Christmas with Grub’s

Are you looking for that practical present for Christmas? The Grub’s Frostline boots are comfortable, warm and hardwearing that are sure to be a hit this winter.

Practical for most working conditions or leisure activities, the Frostline boots are an ideal present for keeping feet warm and dry whilst shooting or walking across muddy fields with the dogs.

The Frostline boots features excellent grip with a Trax sole and a Nitrocell foot bed for superior comfort under foot.Available in a range of colours, Mossy Green, Black, Fuchsia, Violet and Camouflage which makes them suitable for field sports, the Frostline boots are available in UK sizes 4-13.

They retail from around £72.00. www.grubswarehouse.com www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

New for autumn from The Spanish Boot Company is this gorgeous Limited Edition Egality Hunt Scene Velvet Jacket, which combines a vintage inspired faded print of an antiquated hunting scene with exquisite tailoring.

Featuring a strong military tailored silhouette, this jacket features two parades of buttons to the front, a high neru collar, cut away front and shaped cuffs.

Lined with a retro Union Jack flag print, which is also echoed through the jacket’s beautiful print, this jacket is just what you need to get ahead of the field this season.

RRP: £395.00 Sizes: 8 – 16 www.thespanishbootcompany.co.uk 139

cars Ferrari 195 Inter triumphs in Argentina …scooping FIVA’s final preservation award of 2016 Autoclásica 2016, held in Argentina from 7-10 October, was the venue for the presentation of FIVA’s final preservation award before the year’s award-winning cars are invited to assemble in Paris for a celebration of World Motoring Heritage Year. The celebration, ‘Paris Week’, is organised by FIVA and runs from 16th to 20th November 2016.

World Motoring Heritage Year enjoys the formal patronage of UNESCO and the FIVA preservation awards recognise vehicles that are important cultural artefacts – retaining much of their original components, materials and finishes. Since Argentina’s Autoclásica, organised by the Club de Automóviles Clásicos (CAC) in Buenos Aires, is said to be the number one classic and

historic vehicle concours in South America, the team of judges had a tough challenge in picking just one winner.

This remarkable Ferrari, first registered in 1952, features a Vignale body and is powered by the 2,341cc Colombo-designed V12 engine with a 5-speed gearbox.

Its first owner was the renowned Italian actress Anna Magnani, who enjoyed the Ferrari for some six years. After a further short period in Europe, the car was shipped to the USA in 1959 to become part of the William F Harrah Collection in Reno, Nevada. It was 36 years later that the car was purchased by its current owner, Daniel Sielecki, who ran it in the 1996 Mille Miglia and subsequently preserved the car’s original condition in Argentina, where he shares it with

local enthusiasts at such key events as Autoclásica.

Commented FIVA President Patrick Rollet, “October’s Autoclásica in Argentina was the final event of 2016 at which FIVA will present a preservation award, and choosing the winner from

a selection of such beautifully preserved, important motor cars was hugely enjoyable – but not easy.”

In February 2017, the FIVA team will resume its judging duties at the Cartier Travel & Style Concours d’Elégance in India.

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cars New Discovery achieves class-leading residual values in the UK Following its global reveal recently, Land Rover confirms the new Discovery is already leading the field with classleading residual values as rated by industry body CAP. According to CAP, the new Land Rover Discovery is expected to retain 59% of its value over three years or 36,000 miles resulting in compelling finance offers for customers.

Thanks to its combination of seven full sized seats, class leading towing capability, reduced fuel consumption and

reduced CO2, the new Discovery has broad appeal. “The new Discovery is Land Rover’s most versatile and capable vehicle to date. It’s a do anything, anywhere vehicle that will appeal to new and existing customers. We have seen a fantastic response with over 6000 people registering on our website in just two weeks to find out more as we launch in the UK.”From the entry level 2.0 litre, Sd4 derivative through to the 3.0 litre Td6 ‘First Edition’, new Discovery allows customers investment flexibility

between the deposits and the monthly payment. Specification adds value – not just cost

thanks to desirability of higher specification trims and engine choices.

Subaru Levorg Ups Safety Subaru Levorg just got even safer with the addition of EyeSight, Subaru’s advanced collision avoidance technology, contributing towards Levorg being the fifth Subaru model to score Euro NCAP’s prestigious five-star rating.

Fitted as standard to every Subaru Levorg ordered in the UK going forwards, 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.

While systems from other manufacturers use various sensor technologies such as camera and radar or microwaves, EyeSight functions purely optically. The Subaru technicians have placed two camera lenses to the left and right of the rear-view mirror that together create a stereoscopic image.

Pre-Collision braking can also reliably capture pedestrians in dark clothing in un-lit areas,

as commonly found throughout rural areas of the UK, and when needed initiate emergency braking. Up to a speed of 28mph

accidents can be completely avoided and the severity significantly reduced at higher speeds.

The all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia UK order books open Alfa Romeo has opened UK order books on the highlyanticipated all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia range, with prices starting from £29,180 OTR. Combining perfect weight distribution with all new rear-wheel drive architecture, the Alfa Romeo Giulia offers customers best in class power-to-weight ratios and innovative engine and driver technologies.

Customers can also choose between four engine variants (two petrol and two diesel),

which are all paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.

In the UK, the Alfa Romeo Giulia model range features five trim levels – the Giulia, Super, Tecnica, Speciale and the top-ofthe-range Quadrifoglio.

Damien Dally, Country Manager at Alfa Romeo UK, commented; ‘The all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia is a true driver’s car, offering beautiful Italian styling and stunning performance, and so we’re

delighted to see strong early interest in the car. Passion and practicality combine in the Alfa

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Romeo Giulia; there’s never been more temptation to own an Alfa Romeo’.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Pam Over CKD Galbraith, Scotland’s leading independent property consultancy, has announced the appointment of Pam Over as chief executive officer.

From January 2017 she will succeed Tim Kirkwood, who has led the firm as chief executive for more than 20 years. Tim will remain a partner with the firm and will focus on his portfolio of clients in the rural sector.

Iain Russell, chairman of CKD Galbraith, said, “We are delighted with Pam’s appointment as CEO. Her depth and breadth of career experience and commercial overview will provide energy and good judgement to the future development of our business.

David Thomlinson David Thomlinson of Park View, Scaleby, Carlisle, Cumbria has been appointed as the British Limousin Cattle Society’s (BLCS) Honorary President.

Serving a two-year term of office, and becoming the Society’s thirteenth Hon President in all, he takes over the reins from John Temple of Chase Farm, Roughley, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands who stepped down at the Society’s AGM in September.

Mags Granger RSABI, Scotland’s unique rural charity has appointed a new Welfare Manager, based in their Ingliston office, who took up the post earlier this month.

Mags Granger joins the Welfare team with over 14 years experience in the sector working with the Citizens Advice Bureau in Arbroath and latterly with Edinburgh Council Welfare Rights Service. Mags specialises in welfare rights and debt issues, and is committed to helping others manage their money matters and welfare, which can have a positive effect on health and wellbeing.

Brian Wain & Jeremy Wiggins Claas UK has appointed two new directors to its Board.

Brian Wain joins the Board as Customer Service Director and joining him is Jeremy Wiggins as Sales & Marketing Director.

They replace Alastair Tulloch following his recent retirement and Jan-Hendrick Mohr, who has resigned from the Board having been appointed to a new position within the CLAAS Group.

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Page Turner’s

BOOK REVIEW Peaks and Troughs

by Nick Perry

The Scottish publisher, Polygon (an imprint of Birlinn Ltd), brings us a book to hold close to our hearts. One centered firmly on a somewhat unusual farming experience.

‘Let’s buy a farm … Yes, let’s buy a farm!’ I shouted, bringing my fist down on the table. After all, we were country boys at heart.... Ten minutes later we realised what a ridiculous idea it was.’

In 1970, when Nick Perry and his brother Jack inherited £6000 each, they bought a farm near Penygroes in the hills of North Wales. They acted on impulse and set out with Nick’s wife and toddler twins to live their dream. Soft of hand, with no experience of farming and armed only with the Farmer’s Weekly, they embarked on an arduous adventure, establishing an organic farm in traditional farming country.

Farmhouse renovation, vegetable planting and harvesting, hay baling, and livestock cows, sheep, hens, bees and pigs (including Dave) – all were new experiences which they embraced. They experienced loss and near financial ruin, birth and death. Perhaps hardest of all were the neighbours. The hardships they faced together were only matched by their ingenuity and growing aptitude for success and survival. As the

years went by they did learn, adapt and survive – if only just.

Neighbours and customers eventually became close friends but this was a life that defeated many who were hardier and more experienced. The Perrys knew that there were still some adjustments to make when their unconventional approach to school transport brought the following letter from their children’s school: Dear Mr and Mrs Perry It has been brought to my notice that your children ride to school on the back of a pig to meet the school bus.

Although this not contravene any of the school rules, they unfortunately bring the smell of the animal with them into the classroom… If you could please resort to a more orthodox mode of transport, namely walking to meet the bus, this would be greatly appreciated by all members of staff.

Perhaps the time had come to find a new adventure.

This is a very moving and very honest book which has already been selected for the BBC Radio 2 Bookclub this Autumn.

Peaks and Troughs by Nick Perry is published by Polygon (£14.99, hardback) www.polygonbooks.co.uk

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