July 2018 Farming Monthly National

INSIDE: Proper job for slurry and renewables at Kemble Farms page 40

Farming

MONTHLY National

July 2018

Also in this issue...

Pests

| BCPA puts farmers in control of training needs page 20

Gene-edited pigs are resistant to billion dollar virus Also inside this month..

Scientists have produced pigs that can resist one of the world’s most costly animal diseases, by changing their genetic code page 08

Aussie tillage machines p35

NSA Sheep event 2018 p24

ADBA: Emission Possible p42

PLUS: Arable | Finance | Sheep | Education | Buildings | Machinery | Energy | ATV | Motors

CONTENTS July 2018

FEATURES 11

11 Arable Finnish systems could stimulate UK agricultural efficiency

14 Cereals Cereals show post-show

20

24

44 Finance

40

48 Forestry

Somerset farm scoops HSBC funding, Agricultural productivity gap

Finest Woodland winner Elderslie Estates declares its committment to ‘the vanguard of innovation’

46 Education Askham has it all, ABN scholarships

20 Pests BCPA puts farmers in control of training needs

22 Buildings Keeping pigs in their comfort zone

REGULARS 06 News Turnover of farming co-ops up 5%

24 Sheep NSA Sheep event preview

08 On Topic Gene-edited pigs resistant to virus

29 Shows Royal Welsh, Three Counties, UK Dairy Day, Great Yorkshire

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34 Machinery Latest machinery news

40 Energy Latest energy news

50 ATV ATV news...covered.

54 Motors Latest motors news

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50

Agriculture. Covered.

EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com

Gene-edited pigs are resistant to billion dollar virus

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July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

Turnover of farming co-ops increases by 5% The average turnover from agricultural co-operatives has increased by 5% to £7.7bn, according to the 2018 UK Cooperative Economy report. his uplift in revenue echoes the trend seen across the wider co-operative network, which has increased turnover to £36.1bn a year, within which agriculture represents over 20%.

“This growth is testimony to the resilience of our farming cooperatives and has been achieved despite ongoing uncertainty in the run up to Brexit,” explains Richard Self, agricultural manager of Cooperatives UK, the trade body for the sector.

“However, at a time when we need more co-operation and collaboration in agriculture in readiness for leaving the EU, the number of agricultural cooperatives is in fact, declining.

“Defra has recognised that the UK is significantly out of step with its international competitors in the use of the co-operative business model to support producers and have indicated their support for more collaboration in the sector,” he says.

“However, they also need to

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make sure that the funds they announce can be accessed easily and support the right initiatives, to help change perceptions and encourage co-operation."

The UK Co-operative Economy report also references several success stories from organisations across the UK, including OMSCo (Organic Milk Suppliers Cooperative), the largest organic dairy co-operative in the UK and Europe.

Nearly 25 years old, the OMSCo has provided a stable and sustainable return to its members by pursuing a market and product business diversification strategy.

“A focus on long-term, strategic partnerships with like-minded businesses globally, has helped us to develop supply chains overseas and access international markets,” explains OMSCo’s managing director, Richard Hampton.

This approach has led to OMSCo forming relationships with US-based Organic Valley, the largest organic co-operative in the world, leading European organic dairy co-operative, Eko Holland, and long-term partner and

06 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

renowned dairy processor Wyke Farms, with whom they formed the ‘The British Organic Dairy Company’ joint venture in 2017.

“Although OMSCo’s core business is in the UK, added-value initiatives not only help us to balance fluctuations in UK organic milk supply and demand, but also to build resilience as a business,” he says.

For the financial year-ending March 2017, exports accounted for 21% of OMSCo’s turnover.

However, Richard explains that there are hurdles to overcome as Brexit draws closer and brings with it potential barriers to trade.

“The figures from this year’s economy report are reflective of the current market conditions and the challenges that lie ahead,” he says. “Collaboration within the agricultural supply chain and across co-operative memberships, will be key in ensuring sector success post-Brexit.”

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| News

Taking the initiative to deliver Soil Health for uk agricultural soils UK Soil Health initiative launched. ith wide backing, a new initiative for Soil Health is bringing together scientists, academics, industry farm advisers and farming bodies to take a long-term approach to understanding and improving the health of soils across UK farmland for generations to come.

The new body is being formed as a direct response to the Government’s ambition that ‘all England’s soils should be managed sustainably by 2030, supporting profitable and productive farming, and underpinning targets for clean water and air…’ (Defra 25 year environment plan) The new initiative aims to work with all devolved governments to deliver this aspiration across the UK. Working closely with Government, through voluntary actions the approach will help farmers and growers to pass on soils under agricultural management to the next

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generation protected and enhanced.

Initial backing has come from a range of research and advisory organisations, agrisupply businesses and soil laboratories as well farmers and growers. (Full list- see Notes for Editors).

However, the partnership is keen expand to ensure as wide a representation of interests and disciplines as possible.

Developed over a series of industry gatherings, the initiative recognises that much is already being done to address the issues of soil health from research to practical field demonstrations. This renewed emphasis on soils will continue to build on the existing knowledge and skills base bringing together information, best practice and develop new approaches. Identifying knowledge gaps and encouraging research into such areas will be an important part of the early work.

Elizabeth Stockdale of NIAB, an academic closely involved in the partnership comments: “From visits to innovative farmers and

AHDB Monitor Farms, I have seen lots of research in action to deliver site-specific husbandry that treats soils as a living part of the farming system. This initiative is the opportunity to bring together the best science and practice to improve soil health.”

Work will also be undertaken to establish the characteristics for soil health and on-farm approaches to monitor them over time. While some measures, such as earthworms, can change quite rapidly, others such as soil organic matter change slowly, often over many years. Therefore, those involved are committed to a longterm approach to measuring soil health improvement.

Dave Freeman Chair of the Professional Agricultural Analysis Group (PAAG) says: “We want to focus on defining measures that help farmers understand soil health. As all soils differ, an ability to measure key factors is essential for good management and achieving improvements over time.”

On-farm advice will play a critical part. There will be no onesize fits all blueprint as improving soil health will be, in part, built on existing practice, soil type, climate, etc. Whether growing combinable crops, field vegetables or grass and forage crops there will be options to enhance productivity and soil health. The new initiative seeks to help farmers and growers

understand how to manage soils for both improved productivity and increased sustainability, based on healthy soils.

Through initial meetings, the partnership recognised that work to address soil health is quite extensive. However, to date all this effort has lacked coordination.

Working with the farming community, the emerging initiative will look to deliver a consistent and coordinated approach to improving soil health across the UK. In the coming months, partners will promote the importance of measuring soil physical condition and topsoil organic matter alongside routine indicators for improved nutrient management.

Case studies of best practice that already exist on farm will be developed alongside clear evidence that enables the agricultural industry to improve soil husbandry to support profitable and productive farming.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 07

| On Topic

Gene-edited pigs are resistant to billion dollar virus, study finds Scientists have produced pigs that can resist one of the world’s most costly animal diseases, by changing their genetic code. ests with the virus – called Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, or PRRS – found the pigs do not become infected at all.

The animals show no signs that the change in their DNA has had any other impact on their health or wellbeing.

PRRS costs the pig industry around $2.5 billion (£1.75bn) each year in lost revenue in the US and Europe alone.

The disease causes breathing problems and deaths in young animals and if pregnant sows become infected, it can cause them to lose their litter.

The virus infects pigs using a receptor on their cells’ surface called CD163. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute used gene editing techniques to remove a

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small section of the CD163 gene.

They focused on the section of the receptor that the virus attaches to, leaving the rest of the molecule intact.

The team collaborated with Genus PLC, a leading global animal genetics company, to produce pigs with the specific DNA change.

Previous studies had shown that cells from these animals were resistant to the virus in lab tests.

This is the first time researchers have exposed these pigs to the virus to see if they become infected.

They found that none of the animals became ill when exposed to the virus. Blood tests found no trace of the infection.

This research, co-funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and Genus PLC, is published

in the Journal of Virology.

PRRS is endemic in most pig producing countries worldwide. Vaccines have mostly failed to stop the spread of the virus – which continues to evolve rapidly.

Other groups have used gene editing to create PRRS-resistant pigs by removing the whole CD163 receptor.

Removing only a section of CD163 allows the receptor to retain its ordinary function in the body and reduces the risk of side effects, the researchers say.

Dr Christine Tait-Burkard, of the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute, said: “These results are exciting but it will still likely be several years before we’re eating bacon sandwiches from PRRS-resistant pigs.

“First and foremost we need broader public discussion on the acceptability of gene-edited

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| On Topic

These gene-edited pigs are resistant to one of the world’s most costly animal diseases, PRRS virus Credit Norrie Russell

Dr Christine Burkard pictured with gene-edited pigs that are resistant to one of the world’s most costly animal diseases, PRRS virus Credit: Norrie Russell

meat entering our food chain, to help inform political leaders on how these techniques should be regulated.

“We also need to carry out longer term studies to confirm that these genetic changes do not have any unforeseen adverse effects on the animals.

“If these studies are successful and the public are accepting of this technology, we would then be looking to work with pig breeding companies to integrate these gene edits into commercial breeding stocks.”

Genetically modified animals are banned from the food chain in Europe. It is not clear what regulations would apply to gene-edited animals, however, as the approach is different.

GM techniques have been controversial because they can involve introducing genes of other species into an animal. In contrast, gene

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editing speeds up processes that could occur naturally through breeding over many generations, without introducing genes from other species.

Professor Alan Archibald said: “Gene editing gives us a powerful tool to help reduce losses in the farming industry while improving the health and welfare of the animals themselves.”

Jonathan Lightner, Chief Scientific Officer for Genus PLC said: “These results are very exciting and further underscore the potential, through gene editing, to provide incredible benefits to the global pork industry, and society as a whole, by improving animal health. We look forward to further collaboration with the University on this exciting project.”

The interdisciplinary research is the result of long term strategic investment from the BBSRC.

“First and foremost we need broader public discussion on the acceptability of gene edited meat entering our food chain, to help inform political leaders on how these techniques should be regulated” Jef Grainger, Associate Director of BBSRC Science Strategy, said: “This is an exciting result that demonstrates the potential for genome editing approaches to enable significant improvements to be made in the health and welfare of farmed animals, and reduce the economic impacts of diseases that are otherwise difficult to manage effectively.”

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 09

| Arable

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| Arable

Finnish systems could stimulate UK arable efficiency

Finnish Drill

Greater take up of min-till or no-till arable systems could help British farmers improve efficiency. hat was the key take out following AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds’ visit to Finnish agricultural institutions and farms, where efficient systems have been developed to deal with the country’s short growing season.

Vast expanses of the country are snow covered in winter months and Finland has an average growing season, which varies from 100 – 180 days. To cope, farmers have adopted simple, efficient techniques to ensure that their arable crop delivers, working with a ‘no-till’ or ‘min-till’ approach for environmental, cost and lifestyle purposes.

Compared to the UK, the country’s growing season is at least 100 days shorter than the 280-day average reported by the Met Office in 2016.

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AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Strategy Director, Martin GrantleySmith said: “The first snow starts to fall in Finland in September, with spring arriving as late as May. These conditions may at first seem challenging but it’s driven efficiency in the country’s farming systems.

“Currently around 45 per cent of arable crop is grown using a mintill or no-till method. As part of that approach fertiliser is added below the seed with a covering of soil over it, to avoid the fertiliser burning the seed.

“While lower machinery purchase, running and fuel costs are seen as a benefit of no-till or min-till systems, they don’t ignore the time savings made. Most Finnish growers are part-time farmers, with no-till using less time to establish crops than conventional cultivations; this allows farmers more time to

pursue their other jobs – this approach could benefit UK farmers.”

AHDB also learned that Finnish farmers look beyond simply purchasing a seeding machine to it becoming part of a no-till farming system.

AHDB Arable Knowledge Exchange Manager Harry Henderson, said: “I was fascinated to understand why Finland was Europe’s biggest adopter of no-till cereal production – perhaps unsurprisingly, it comes down to cost.

“The most pivotal element in the till system’s success or failure is the choices farmers make on the ground. Considering and understanding a number of factors, from drainage, to soil conditions, having patience with ground temperature and making sure their machinery is smaller, with a system flexible to changes.

“However, while these considerations are all important, farmers are not evangelical about no-till and will revert back to old methods – meaning all farms will have a cultivator and use it as and when necessary – they also own a plough.”

Currently the UK’s adoption of no-till cereal production stands at 8 per cent, compared to 13 per cent in Finland.

Harry added: “For British farmers and agronomists considering the move to no-till, there’s definitely a lot we can learn and share from the systems the Finns have adopted to cope with their climate.”

To find out more about no-till methods visit: cereals.ahdb.org.uk/notill. Harry Henderson will be sharing more information about the visit to Finland in an AHDB Cereals blog.

Yorkshire Water launches ‘first of its kind’ programme collaborating with farmers to improve soil health Yorkshire Water and Future Food Solutions have announced plans for a collaborative land-based programme that will see farmers, global food & drink brands, NGO’s & supply chain partners working together to improve soil quality in river catchment areas around Yorkshire. he utilities company, which serves 2.3 million households and 130,000 businesses, and the supply chain consulting group, Future Food Solutions, have jointly developed the programme, which is set to be the first of its kind in the UK. Improving soil health is recognised internationally as a core requirement to maintaining sustainable food production around the world. With the involvement of leading edge delivery partners, the project will identify new ways to improve soil management that reduces erosion, maintains moisture content and increases agricultural

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productivity.

The programme, named ‘Sustainable Landscapes’, has commenced in three trial areas based around river catchments close to the villages of Shipton by Beningbrough, Elvington and Topcliffe.

A key focus of the programme is to collaboratively explore innovative ways to prevent farmland soil being lost to waterways. During the last year, 23,000 tonnes of soil was extracted from water treatment facilities on the rivers Derwent and Ouse. Retaining soil on the land where it is needed to grow food is one of the many ways the Sustainable Landscapes programme will improve the sustainability of the UK’s food and

drink industry.

Yorkshire Water has proven the value of collaborative-based projects, most recently working closely with communities and landowners to deliver the Governments Blanket Bog restoration strategy. This initiative, led by Andrew Walker, Catchment Strategy Manager for Yorkshire Water, protects and enhances the Uplands from Exmoor to The Borders, whilst improving water quality for consumers in those areas.

Andrew Walker said, “Developing a collaborative partnership with farmers that has a positive impact on lowland soil quality, delivers for both the environment and our own water management goals”.

“If we can make agriculture more profitable and the supply chain more sustainable, whilst ensuring better quality water in the rivers and aquifers, farmers, businesses and consumers, as well as the environment, will all benefit, which is why we are supporting the Sustainable Landscapes programme”.

By improving the health of farmland soil through a combination of practical precision farming methods, proven cultivation techniques endorsed by soil scientists, and new pest and disease solutions, Sustainable Landscapes aims to pioneer a new approach to collaborative working in lowland areas.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

Look out now for Verticillium stripe in the field Some crops will be showing signs of premature ripening at this point. uch symptoms can be due to a number of diseases, but Verticillium stripe (previously known as Verticillium wilt) is one that should be noted. “It is worth going out to inspect crops and see if this disease can be found,” says Neil Groom, Technical Director of Grainseed.

“If you have Verticillium in your soils, it can be there for over 20 years and the only way to live with it is to grow a variety which has good Verticillium resistance or tolerance. You have no other choice. Using crop intervals or rotations is impractical and there are no approved chemicals. If you don’t grow a resistant variety, you will have to suffer the consequences in future years. We suggest that those who are seeing Verticillium stripe now or in the past few years make a proactive decision to grow a resistant variety this autumn.”

ADAS report that Verticillium stripe symptoms are seen as the crops starts to ripen. What to look out for are yellowing leaves, premature ripening of branches and grey striping down stems, often on one side only but it can be the whole cross-section of a stem. Underneath the vertical stripes, if you peel off the outer

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stem layer you will see grey vascular tissue. If you use a hand lens, you can see tiny black dots or microsclerotia. The microsclerotia survive in the soil for over 20 years to infect subsequent crops, hence the impractical nature of crop intervals in its control.

“To control it sustainably, you must use resistant varieties,” says Neil. “Once you have identified Verticillium, you need to start thinking seriously about how to handle it. Unlike other diseases of rape, there is no proven or approved fungicide to control it and so growers must rely on cultural control measures – and the only one you really have open to you is to choose varieties with known resistance. Grainseed oilseed rape varieties including Es Mambo have proven resistance to Verticillium, following several years’ independent trials and commercial experience.”

Neil advises growers to grow rape varieties with a good overall combined disease resistance. “In cereals you don’t think twice about studying disease resistance ratings in detail before choosing your variety. This needs to be the same for rape varieties now. A good variety needs to have resistance to Verticillium, Phoma, as well as to Light Leaf spot. Es Mambo has a 7.8 rating for Phoma

Verticillium stripe symptoms

stem canker and a 6.4 for Light Leaf spot plus it is the Number 1 performing variety in AICC Verticillium trials. Es Alegria has a 7.4 rating for Phoma, 5.4 for Light Leaf spot and has good tolerance to Verticillium as well. Genetic resistance to Phoma in all Grainseed varieties is multi-gene and so unlikely to break down.”

When growers are looking more closely at their growing costs, choosing a variety such as Mambo where you can be sure of its strong disease resistance across the board can save you money, says Neil.

“Mambo also shows exceptional autumn vigour, helping the crop grow away from diseases and pests, increasingly important with the pressure of cabbage stem flea beetles at planting. It also has good oil levels of 46%. As a variety it gives growers peace of mind with its strong broad disease resistance, its low biomass and its vigour characteristics.”

In the future AHDB is looking to assess and rate susceptibility of a range of varieties to Verticillium and these could be added to the published listings in 2020.

Azotic Technologies Envita™ launching commercially in North America in autumn 2018 BBC acknowledges Azotic in World news broadcast. zotic Technologies, the UK-based global ag-tech company, is launching its Envita™ naturalnitrogen fixing technology commercially across North America in autumn 2018 following extensive trials, under the Envita™ Growing Programme, across approximately 3,000 acres involving 58 farmers growing either corn or soybeans. Feedback from the growers and the initial results from these trials are extremely encouraging.

Envita™ is a naturally occurring food grade bacteria (Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus) that enables plants to fix nitrogen from the air and replace up to 50 per cent of

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their nitrogen needs as an alternative to fertiliser. It is environmentally-friendly, costreducing and is also proven to increase crop yields.

Commercialisation of rice in Asia is also on the company’s agenda. Three rice trials have recently been carried out in Vietnam; the overall response was a mean average 15% yield increase across all the field trials.

Further rice trials are being carried out in Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines.

Azotic was founded in 2012 to commercialise the technology discovered initially nearly 20 years ago by Professor Edward Cocking, Fellow of the Royal Society and Director at the Centre for Crop Nitrogen Fixation at the University of Nottingham.

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Peter Blezard, CEO of Azotic, said: “The Envita™ Growing Programme trials were highly encouraging, still with some verification of the results to come.

This should prove beyond all doubt the efficacy of our revolutionary technology in making crops nitrogen-fixing and with the resulting increased yields.”

The official commercial launch of Envita™ will be at the Agriculture 4.0 conference in San Francisco on 15th and 16th November 2018, where Azotic’s CEO Peter Blezard has been invited to make a keynote speech to 2000 delegates entitled “Nature’s nitrogen will fix planet’s food needs”.

Azotic North America is responsible for commercialisation

in the US and Canada. Ray Chyc, CEO of Azotic North America based in Guelph, Canada, said: “Azotic’s technology is world-class - it increases yield while providing a significant positive environmental impact, as well as contributing in a major way to solving the issue of global scarcity of food.

“Azotic’s technology will change global agricultural practice in the years to come.”

On 8th June 2018, BBC World Service featured Azotic in major coverage entitled ‘Making food crops that feed themselves” https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/busin ess-44357673 The accompanying BBC broadcast is at https://www.facebook.com/bbc news/videos/2005856056100177/

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| Cereals

Contact your nearest dealer: Central Cropsprayers Limited Unit J Sandford Industrial Park Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 2AN 01948 840187 www.centralcropsprayers.co.uk Sprayer Spares 1, Moorland Trading Estate, Metheringham, Lincoln LN4 3HX 01526 323521 www.sprayerspares-ltd.co.uk Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk

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July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Cereals

Cereals Event 2018

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| Cereals

Visitors and exhibitors welcomed the far-reaching farmer-led changes at the Cereals Event, with plenty of cutting-edge technology and advice on offer. t was the first chance the industry had to experience the new-look event since it was taken over by Comexposium and the team that organises SIMA in Paris, and other agricultural shows around the world. Under the new ownership, the organiser team consulted extensively with exhibitor and visitor advisory boards, resulting in a new Cereals with two new seminar areas, innovation entrances, Innovation Insights presentations, and cover crop drilling demonstrations.

“We have been overwhelmed with the positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors alike,” said event director Jon Day. “We had 18,000 attendees over the two days, and exhibitors were delighted with the quality of interest, with many reporting rapid sales and solid business leads. In fact, nearly 50% of exhibitors have already committed to attend in June 2019.”

The new-look Cereals attracted some of the biggest names in the industry among the 362 exhibitors, including; Amazone, Barclays, Bayer, HSBC, KWS, LG, New Holland, NIAB TAG, NFU, Syngenta and Yara, plus significant support from event content partner AHDB. Andrew Newby, KWS managing director said of this year’s event, “We’ve had a better quality of visitors this year, the people I’ve spoken to have had genuine reasons for being here.”

First time exhibitor, Pear Agri – which launched its new farm management software was left very impressed with the quality of visitors to this year’s event. “We had a large number of very good enquiries and attending has proved valuable to the business,” said the firm’s John Edwards.

The event kicked off with a packed seminar programme, with high-profile speakers in Cereals Controversial including NFU president Minette Batters and AHDB chairman Peter Kendall. Over in Cereals Conversations, industry experts explored the technical challenges facing farmers and sought to find solutions together.

Innovation was a strong theme this year, following feedback from visitors, leading to the

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creation of a new Innovation Insights feature with Agri-Tech East. “The participants in our session showcased a diverse range of research, technologies, products and services and the huge buzz in the marquee showed there is huge appetite to embrace change through adoption of new solutions,” said Dr Belinda Clarke, director of Agri-Tech East.

Products included robots and artificial intelligence, bespoke weather reporting, and technology to improve water and phosphate efficiencies.

Helping visitors to get the most from their days were new guided tours, one of which included a visit to the soil pit, which was packed with farmers seeking to understand what’s going on beneath the surface.

Different crop options were on display from NIAB TAG, showing how varying alternatives affect soil health and root growth. Other Guided Tours focused on weed control techniques, innovation, and cereal and oilseed varieties, with many sessions over-subscribed.

David Butler, Farmers Weekly contributor and mixed farmer from Wiltshire, rated the show 9/10 and was taking lots of fresh ideas back home, including using turbo twin-jet nozzles for better spray coverage, trialling white lupins as a protein crop and new cereal varieties and seed dressings.

One highlight of the day was the Hands Free Hectare demonstration from exhibitor advisory board member Harper Adams University, which generated huge interest in autonomous machinery. “We were inundated with enquiries,” said marketing officer Sarah Swinnerton.

“Being at Cereals is hugely important for us, not just for student recruitment but to maintain contacts within the industry and to catch up with our alumni. And being part of the advisory board has been great. The flow of the site is much better and we’re looking forward to next year: Cereals is always an important show on our calendar.”

Event feedback Luke Cox (@farmerLukeCox) a young farmer from Gloucestershire, tweeted: “Great day at Cereals Event today, with glorious weather to accompany informative debates from the likes

of Minette Batters and AHDB, not to mention the numerous leaflets and booklets which will hopefully point my new farm trading career in the right direction.”

Samuel Clarke (@farmerSamClarke), a sheep farmer and independent crop consultant from Oxfordshire, tweeted: “Went to the Cereals Event today – a good day talking mainly to breeders on new varieties, lots of energy at the show, which felt a lot smaller and compact, which was not a bad thing.”

David Butler (@DavidButler34), Farmers Weekly contributor and mixed farmer from Wiltshire, tweeted: “Very enjoyable day at Cereals, taking lots of fresh ideas back home.”

John Pawsey, Suffolk farmer: “It is such a great event for meeting fellow farmers, as well as industry partners. The only difficulty is getting around as I kept on bumping into people I wanted to talk to. It’s so important to keep these events going, farming can be a pretty lonely business and Cereals is the highlight of the year for me.”

Angus McKirdy – CPM Magazine: “I have been coming to Cereals for the past 25 years and it’s as good as it ever was. It’s a unique event and the quality of exhibitors is first class.”

Sarah Swinnerton – HAU: “Wednesday was absolutely fantastic for us, we were inundated with enquiries.”

Ralph Lane – Tillso: “We’ve been really pleased, we had an excellent day with lots of visitors. We sold our demonstrator machine by 9am on Wednesday. It’s definitely worthwhile coming, we’ve booked for next year again.

Cereals is always a good show for us.”

Jocelyn Beaumont - Weaving Machinery: “We’ve found Cereals to be really productive, with a high rate of really good enquiries. We think it’s a great show. The show is great value for money, both as an exhibitor and hopefully for people coming to look round the show, purely on the basis that you’ve got so much knowledge you can gain and so many interesting people you can meet. Overall, we’re really happy.”

Cereals 2019 will take place on 12th and 13th June, at Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Cereals

Consider the opportunity to bale safely up to 30% moisture PFC preservative brands are Baler’s Choice, CropSaver and ThirtyPlus. roducers of consistent premium hay and straw have been using these premium strength preservatives for over 40 years in the world market. there are many variations of buffered acid but when it comes to consistency and quality, our branded preservative is the only product you should consider for your hay and straw production.

In a normal year, straw baling at 15% moisture and below has been relatively achievable. As we have seen, the weather is not predictable. Baling close behind the combine and baling for more hours in the day should be a big consideration to help manage the workload in clearing straw fields for future crop establishment.

Achieving a 15% moisture level and below is a significant challenge in hay production. Being completely honest with yourself, in a normal year 10-20% of the hay will exceed this. Consider the

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opportunity to bale safely up to 30% moisture and eliminate the headache of short baling days and reduced optimum weather windows utilising our branded

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preservative?

With modern high output balers and the best preservative on the market we have the application equipment to apply accurate rates

so your baler can achieve its optimum performance.

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| Cereals

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July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Cereals

Cereals 2018: Gibbons shows off energy-saving grain store fans, accessories and more After months of meticulous preparation for its debut appearance at Cereals, Gibbons Agricultural Fans finally revealed its eye-catching stand at the arable industry’s leading technical event on 13th and 14th June. ith around 20,000 visitors from the agricultural industry attending the show – held at Chrishall Grange in Duxford, Cambridgeshire, an expert team was on hand to assist farmers and agronomists with their post-harvest crop-conditioning requirements.

The Gibbons stand included energy-efficient 0.13-2.2kW steel and aluminium grain-drying fans, hotspot Airspear® fans and pedestals for visitors to peruse, along with the rest of the company’s Agricultural Fans range.

Newly-launched in time for Cereals was a wireless temperature and humidity control system courtesy of Robydome, which enables farmers to automatically manage grain store conditions. Robust, reliable and easy to use, the system saves time

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and energy and helps to maintain crop quality while minimising the use of pesticides.

Visitors were drawn to Gibbons’ Plug&Dry™ display, which showcased a range of energysaving grain fan accessories. This selection of easy-to-use plug-andplay add-ons includes fan starters, thermostats and extension leads and is fully compatible with the Gibbons Agricultural Fans range.

There was also a chance for visitors to experience Gibbons’ money-saving grain store fan calculator for themselves. This ingenious tool allows users to discover the optimum number of fans required for their grain store by entering just a few key pieces of information, and farmers were impressed by its ease of use.

A sun-drenched first day saw a raft of visitors to the Gibbons stand, and while weather on the second day wasn’t as kind, the attractive, welcoming display

ensured the team were kept busy with a steady stream of enquiries from current and future clients.

Gibbons Agricultural Fans Manager Josie Knight said: “Cereals offered us a great opportunity to engage with farmers and for them to see our entire range of crop-conditioning equipment prior to harvest. It was a vibrant, positive event and we’re delighted with the number of enquiries we received.

“After engaging with farmers from Britain and abroad, it’s clear

to us that with Brexit on the horizon there’s still plenty of concern over energy costs during the post-harvest period. We hope that our energy-efficient fans and automatic wireless control equipment gives farmers one less thing to worry about this year.”

As harvest draws ever closer, get more information and prices on the entire Gibbons Agricultural Fans range by calling Josie Knight on 01621 868 138 or email fans@gibbonsgroup.co.uk

Launch of Big Soil Community heralds new era for soil health analysis A new initiative is set to produce a major leap forward in the understanding of the UK’s soil health – and support the nation’s farmers in the process. he Big Soil Community, which has been launched by Fera, aims to break down the complexity of soil biology and develop an applied knowledgebase which will support farmers in unlocking the potential of soil health. Fera is extending an open invitation to farms across the UK, inviting them to join the Big Soil Community and participate in a coordinated sampling programme for analysis of soil microbial communities. This programme will provide a rich benchmark of soil biodiversity at scale – something which has never before been available.

The results will provide participating farmers with valuable information and a rich picture of their microbiological diversity as well as the tools to benchmark their results against the wider Big

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Soil Community; providing insight into the impact of soil management, crop rotations and farm system dynamics.

Based near York, UK, Fera works with UK and international partners, governments and other public bodies to innovate and deliver translational science that will protect and enhance food, plants, animals and the environment.

Fera employs more than 300 scientists at the National Agri-food Innovation Campus near York.

There is growing recognition of the importance of understanding soil health beyond that of the traditional physical and chemical properties. To date, there has been no unified metric of soil health and limited availability or uptake of commercial soil biology measures.

Fera has recognised that due to the complexity of analysing soil biology, a collaborative effort is required to drive a coordinated

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approach to understanding the role of soil microbial communities.

As part of the Big Soil Community project, metagenomics will provide a census of these communities and will barcode populations across different farms and systems. This will give farmers the ability to identify similarities and differences which associate with healthy soil conditions and enable them to review their farming practices and potentially take measures to improve the overall health of their soils.

Fera will use high throughput sequencing, metagenomics and metabarcoding to analyse soil samples to describe the diversity of microbial populations.

Farmers are being invited to join the community from June until September. They will be asked to collect and submit their soil samples for analysis as well as information on where the sample

was taken from. Results will be returned to participants as an individual report alongside the anonymised Big Soil Community benchmarking report of all results which provides meta-analysis and system specific descriptions of differences in microbial populations (e.g. standard versus low-tillage systems).

“The soil microbial communities in our agricultural systems are incredibly rich and complex but hold great promise for sustainable agriculture” The cost to the farmer to have a sample analysed is expected to be £250, though the price model is tiered to drive participation. As the number of farms that take part increases the cost for all participants will decrease. In

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| Cereals addition, and more importantly, the more farmers participate in the scheme the more insights will be generated into the UK’s soil health.

Fera is also engaging with supply chain organisations, retailers and farming groups on the project – retailers, for instance, will be able to gain an understanding of the soil health of their growers and benchmark this against the wider community.

Guy Thallon, Strategic Business Development Manager in the Crop Health division at Fera Science, who is leading on the project, said: “Sustainable farming and Soil Health has never been higher on the agenda as it is now, which is why it’s the right time for this study to unlock the potential of soil biology.

“The soil microbial communities in our agricultural systems are incredibly rich and complex but hold great promise for sustainable agriculture. Large-scale, collaborative projects are required to break down this complexity and move the interest of soil health into a biology space.

“We’d therefore greatly encourage as many farmers as possible to become involved with this community, the more samples that we analyse, the richer the datasets and the quicker the pace of change and understanding.”

Fera is driven by a need to address important global issues,

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Guy Thallon, Strategic Business Development Manager in the Crop Health division at Fera Science

such as sustainably feeding a growing population and security challenges. Fera uses original thinking and innovation in developing early stage detection to solve the big issues facing the agri-food industry.

To enable sustainable solutions in agriculture, Fera offers a suite of

resources, testing facilities and expertise. It also creates and delivers integrated, innovative and expert research services and products for its partners in crop protection, chemical and animal health companies, as well as food producers and growers, manufacturers, distributors and

retailers.

Fera launched the Big Soil Community at Cereals 2018.

For more information on the Big Soil Community, visit https://info.fera.co.uk/bigsoil/ For more information on Fera, visit https://www.fera.co.uk

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Pests

BPCA puts farmers in control of training needs The British Pest Control Association has two distinct options available to the farming community to ensure it can effectively purchase professional use rodenticides and overcome pest management issues. ption one is to take advantage of BPCA’s professional network of technicians, with the insight and expertise to deliver the right solutions for agricultural environments.

Employing a BPCA member company through the Association’s referral service, means farmers have peace of mind in the fact they are using a qualified technician who is able to purchase and apply relevant products that can tackle such issues of resistance.

The other option provided by BPCA is specific, professional training.

The training route BPCA offers approved rodenticide training, starting with the popular ‘Using Rodenticides Safely Programme.’

Taking part in this programme (passing the exam), enables farmers and growers to continue purchasing professional use rodenticides.

BPCA training has been devised to offer a comprehensive approach, which brings value to the farming community through the inclusion of features such as surveys and risk hierarchies, health and safety, legislation and record keeping.

Upon completion, farmers and growers are well placed to improve the quality of their pest management processes, and overcome rodent challenges.

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Flexibility assured BPCA’s training - which is CRRU approved is delivered in two ways, either via the classroom or online.

The classroom programme takes a single day and features an examination upon completion of the training.

The alternative, online programme has been developed to enable farmers to adhere to the requirements, without interfering with work.

This programme involves six hours study and concludes with an online exam, which must be passed for professional use rodenticide purchases.

Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Technical Manager, said: “To be best placed to deal with pest issues, farmers have two routes to take, either to select an approved professional technician, or to improve their own practice and engage in the training programme.

“Doing nothing isn’t the sensible option.

Either invest in the training or find a suitbale pest management company. Both of these options will enhance protection to your business.”

To find out more about the BPCA training programme, please visit bpca.org.uk/training or call 01332 225113

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| Pests

Trade body puts pest control under the spotlight for the farming community The impact pests can have on farms needs little introduction. ssues with lost crops and feedstock, health concerns associated with the spread of disease and the dangers of rodenticide misuse are just some of the problems faced.

In this article, Dee WardThompson, BPCA Technical Manager gives an insight into why pest control is important – and sets out some of the major factors of note for the farming community.

The next generation issue fighting resilience BPCA has been highlighting the importance of expert pest control across the farming sector for many years – and a report revealed this year illustrated clearly why it’s so important.

A study by the University of Reading has revealed a new generation of rats carrying a genetic mutation which makes them resistant to conventional poison.

The report, commissioned by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU), has identified "the massive extent of L120Q resistance across the whole of central southern England.”

While the report highlights the situation in the region, it makes it clear that the data is not available for the rest of the UK. That means resistance is highly likely to be growing in rat species across a swathe of the country.

The report also states that rats without the genetic mutation are being killed off by poison, so the resistant species are taking their place, leaving a growing population of resistant pure-breds.

With their numbers expanding there could be a significant risk to public health if their population is left unchecked, in rural environments, as well as urban areas.

And this rise in resistance could be due to a number of factors.

However, it is most likely the spread has been accelerated by the application of rodenticides, by amateurs doing it themselves, or

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employing an unqualified individual to try to resolve the problem.

The clear message is, therefore, that to be effective in tackling this issue, people should not attempt to self-treat rats.

Rats must be dealt with by those with the skills required to understand rodent behaviour and their habitat, and who know how to treat any particular strain.

This is something which is becoming increasingly significant across the farming sector.

It is an issue that needs to be tackled head-on to prevent a problem that has all the potential to become an issue of major national concern – and it’s vital that the farming community takes the right steps now and is protected professionally, to prevent a huge challenge in years to come.

Professional-use only rodenticides are often more successful, but most are subject to strict legislation, as set out in requirements for farmers and growers at the beginning of this year.

From January 1st, changes

introduced under rodenticide stewardship mean that farmers are now only be able to purchase professional rodenticides if they can demonstrate they are signedup to a compliant assurance scheme or have completed an approved training course.

That leaves farmers who are not signed up to these schemes limited to three options; 1) take an approved training course in order to purchase rodenticide, 2) employ a certified professional pest controller, 3) or use rodenticide products authorised for amateur usage.

The value of engagement To really get to grips with pest numbers on farms, the subject needs to be treated proactively rather than reactively – and that process points to the value of the appointment of a certified pest controller from the three options listed above.

A large part of prevention is thinking ahead and identifying potential causes and entry points before infestations occur.

Farmers who engage with professional pest controllers will benefit from this forward-thinking, targeted approach.

This process can include inspecting outbuildings, grain stores and the surrounding area on a routine basis and reporting on the status of pest infestations, organising and undertaking a programme of treatments, as well as using pest control equipment or chemicals to control and eliminate

target pests.

Good practice also means fewer products being used, and the adoption of resilient preventative methods and activities, which are so crucial in view of the points raised above.

By employing a member company through the BPCA referral service, farmers can be sure they’re using a qualified technician who is able to purchase and apply relevant products that can tackle such issues of resistance.

We’ve established strict criteria to ensure the professionalism of our members so companies carrying our logo will carry out safe, effective and legal pest management.

It is activities to raise the professionalism of the pest control industry which have seen BPCA stand out as the authority in this important area.

For farmers, that means access to a professional network of technicians with the insight and expertise to deliver the right solutions for agricultural environments.

BPCA also offers a wealth of information online to support the farming community. This includes PestAware, bpca.org.uk/PestAware which features professional advice from leading experts in the pest control industry, to help viewers help tackle pest problems.

Other activities events and exhibitions offering an opportunity to discuss current issues.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Buildings

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| Buildings

Keeping pigs in their comfort zone

TV success for Roundhouse and S&A

A new method of comparing the environmental performance of pig houses has been devised by Staffordshire-based ARM Buildings.

For those of us who watched the Channel 5 series “Springtime on the Farm” it wasn’t difficult to see that the lambing shed at Cannonhall Farm, who hosted the show, was in fact a Roundhouse.

sing an environmental monitoring system and employing the parameter of +/- 3 deg C of the set temperature – termed the ‘comfort zone’ – has enabled the company to compare similar buildings on different farms, old buildings with new and those of varying designs.

The company has produced some remarkable figures involving over 130,000 weaner-growers and a similar number of finishing pigs in controlled-environment houses over a five-year period. These will be available to pig producers at the British Pig and Poultry Fair on the ARM stand (no 63).

“The figures show that the ‘comfort zone’ has been retained for an average of 95 per cent of the time, both in summer and winter, though there have been interesting variations between old buildings and new and the way they have been managed,” said Tim Miller, ARM’s environment

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specialist.

“As far as we know, no-one has ever done this before,” he said.

“In a weaner building in cold weather, for instance, we can see if the temperature drops below 3 deg of the set temperature, which may be an indication of a heating failure. Similarly, in finishing sheds in summer the temperature may soar way beyond the set level and this could show fans not working or a poor level of insulation.

“Such cases warrant further investigation. Farmers may claim their pigs are doing well, but only by monitoring can you really see how a piggery is performing dayin, day-out.”

Since July 2009, ARM Building has been fitting data-loggers as standard equipment to all their new pig houses. These enable the buildings’ performance to be independently monitored though Farmex’s Barn Report system. It is believed to be the only company doing so in the pig sector.

hat you probably didn’t realise was that the “studio” where all the visitors and interviews happened was one of seven S&A buildings constructed on the site in 2014.

The five one hour, live, shows produced by Dasiybeck Studios, who also produce The Yorkshire Vet set up shop at Cannonhall Farm, near Barnsley. The show was presented by Countryfile presenter and farmer Adam Henson and Spring Watch unsprung’s Lindsey Chapman as well as former JLS star JB Gill – who himself has taken up farming – and actor Kelvin Fletcher who played Andy Sugden on Emmerdale for 20 years.

Focusing on the Nicholson farming family at Cannonhall and the stresses of lambing the show proved a success for Channel 5’s

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viewing figures and hopefully gave the public at large a glimpse of what life is like on the farm.

The Roundhouse at Cannonhall is probably our most famous building because as well as hosting regional RIDBA events it’s hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors over the years as well as Royalty. In 2017 Prince Edward toured the farm and enjoyed his visit to the Roundhouse and ancillary S&A buildings used throughout the farm.

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| Sheep

Competitors at the ready for NSA Sheep 2018!

Shepherding skills, fencing prowess and wool quality will all be put to the test in an exciting array of competitions at the National Sheep Association’s (NSA) Sheep 2018 this summer. highlight of the flagship event of the NSA, which takes place on Wednesday 18thJuly at the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, will be the national final of the NSA Next Generation Shepherd of the Year competition, sponsored by the Texel Sheep Society. The best young shepherds from around the UK will go head-to-head in a range of tasks designed to test their skills ranging from shearing to lamb selection. The competition will also include a mystery challenge testing the young shepherds’ skills and knowledge of a topical subject currently affecting the UK sheep sector.

Each of the 18 competitors has fought hard to get to the final, securing a place via the nine regional competitions held by the NSA up and down the country. This forms part of the NSA Next Generation programme, dedicated to encouraging and supporting the sheep farmers of the future.

Returning once again to entertain the crowds, NSA Sheep 2018 will include the highly respected wire fencing competition, sponsored

by Tornado, where competitors will be required to demonstrate speed, skill and stamina as they race to erect a section of fencing before the

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allotted time runs out. The popular contest is judged not just on time but importantly on the quality of the finished work, and spectators can expect an exciting display as rival fencing teams take part.

NSA Sheep Event Organiser Helen Davies comments: “The excitement of the competitions held at all NSA sheep events is always a draw for the visiting crowds, and NSA Sheep 2018 looks set to be no exception. We look forward to welcoming competitors from across the UK to test their shepherding and farming skills against each other in what will be some hardfought contests.”

Those seeking a quieter spot will also find plenty of interest at NSA Sheep Event 2018.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the fencing and Next Generation competition areas, visitors will find the fleece competition, featuring a fine display of fleeces from a range of sheep. The contest, which is a qualifier for the British Wool ‘Golden Fleece’ competition, includes seven classes of fleece and is open to all wishing to show off their finest wool.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “We are looking forward to another fantastic year for the NSA Sheep Event. The competitive element really does add an area of interest for visitors

and it is always pleasing to recognise the skills and hard work of those competing on such a recognised stage within the industry. We wish all competitors for 2018 the very best of luck and can’t wait to see the competition outcomes.”

Entry to the NSA Next Generation Shepherd competition is limited to regional qualifiers.

Limited space is still available in the wire fencing competition, and entries are welcomed for the fleece competition.

Visit www.sheepevent.org.uk/competitions.

As well as supporting the fencing competition, Tornado has also teamed up with NSA on its 2018 free prize draw. New members joining NSA, or existing members that nominate a new member, can win one of four sets of stock fencing wire and fittings worth over £450 to be given away through 2018. Becoming a member also entitles you to enter NSA Sheep 2018 free of charge. One membership card permits one free entry. Sign up in advance and enter the free prize draw at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/membership.

More event information, including full details of all competitions at www.sheepevent.org.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Sheep

NSA warns of link between upland rewilding and devastating wildfires

At the leading edge Known nationwide. Owned nationwide. Shown nationwide.

With devastating scenes of wildfires raging over Saddleworth Moor across the news recently the National Sheep Association (NSA) is warning of the increased risk of similar disasters if proposals to rewild many of the UK’s upland areas are pursued. he Whiteley Hey Flock Exhibiting at the NSA Sheep Event on the 18th July 2018 Boasting 30 years of Genetics in Texels, Beltex x Texels and Beltex x Charolais.

Our sheep are sold throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The progeny of these rams have gone on to win many Easter and Christmas fat stock shows. The lambs are amongst the top priced lambs in prime stock rings around the country.

These rams are bred for

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ombined risk factors of predicted climate change and weather patterns with removal of grazing animals that have in the past protected uplands from out of control fires by creating natural firebreaks could mean the fires causing distress amongst people living and working in the area could become more widespread.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker comments: “Wildfires are becoming more common across the UK, in part due to a loss of grazing animals and an increase in high volumes of dry vegetation. The result is causing immense environmental damage including the loss of peat and release of carbon into the atmosphere, the destruction of mammals and young birds, the potential loss of domesticated livestock and of course, a risk to human health.

“The grazed nature of most of our uplands has, in the past, protected us from out of control fires, meaning that when fires occur as they inevitably will, they are short lived and relatively easy to get under control. This is

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excellent Conformation and Skins.

We have an outstanding show of rams on offer exhibiting power, skin, length and shape all the attributes required for today's commercial and pure breeders.

See our sales page for sale dates and venues or visit our farm and see them for yourself. All our sheep are vaccinated with EnzoVac, Tox-Vac and Foot Vac and are on the Heptavac P system. The sheep are fed naturally with malassed sugar beet pellets only.

Therefore they continue to thrive and go on to do well for their new owners.

a practical example of how sheep farming has an integral relationship with our planet and connects our landscape, our people and our wildlife and environment through natural and traditional land management whilst also producing food and fibre from plants and regions that would not otherwise feed and clothe us.”

Extending sympathy and concern to all affected by the blaze currently affecting over 6 sq. km of land on Saddleworth Moor, Mr Stocker continues: “The NSA is not aiming to win political gain from a clearly distressing and damaging event and our thoughts go to all affected in the area, however we do feel the need to point out that moves to re-wild many of our upland areas would put far more and far larger areas at risks.”

Further information on the environmental benefits of sheep farming in upland areas is available in the NSA publication ‘The complementary role of sheep in upland and hill areas’ that is available to download from www.nationalsheep.org.uk/polic y-work

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Sheep

How long will a new timber fence last?

Progressive farmer Richard Thomas is trialling proven Postsaver ground line barrier sleeves to avoids the costly pitfalls of premature rot in timber fence posts.

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e has fenced a 10-acre field at his East Midlands farm using 400 posts fitted with Postsaver barrier sleeves, which are specially designed to keep timber preservatives in and

decay out.

Richard, who is chairman of the Notts branch of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), hopes the exercise will prove useful, particularly as he plans to expand on the range of conservation schemes at his 2,500-acre farm in Blidworth.

“These ‘greener’ preservatives are proving to be less effective and mean perfectly good fences are being scrapped because timber posts have rotted through at ground level within a few years” Alongside his well-established business of rearing pigs and growing spring wheat, sugar beet and vegetables such as carrots, asparagus and spinach, Richard aims to create more areas for grazing, which will require a substantial investment in fencing in the near future.

“I have had a few problems where animals have pushed over posts that have rotted

26 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

prematurely so a low-cost product that can help extend the life of timber posts to 20 years or more could prove to be very beneficial,”said Richard.

Fencing supplier and timber treatment specialist Jon Walker of Calverton recommended the application of Postsaver barrier sleeves as an added layer of protection for the chestnut poles he has provided for the exercise.

“These sleeves involve only a very small extra cost and they are a good combination with posts that have been treated with the correct strength of preservative solution required for ground contact timbers,” commented Jon, who has 25 years’ experience in the industry and whose business treats 150 tonnes of timber a week.

Designed to protect the most vulnerable part of a fence post from rotting organisms, Postsaver is a tough, double layer polythene and bituminous sleeve developed in 1994,since then millions of sleeves have been sold worldwide without failure which has been backed up by 20 years of independent testing so Postsaver really does work.

“Many farmers and landowners are unaware of the growing problem of premature fence failure associated with the environmental restrictions placed on traditional but effective wood preservatives leading to the use of more environmentaly-friendly options.

“These ‘greener’ preservatives are proving to be less effective and mean perfectly good fences are being scrapped because timber posts have rotted through at ground level within a few years,” explained Allan Poole Postsavers sales manager.

Postsaver sleeves are produced in a range of sizes to fit all popular round and square post sizes. They are easily applied using a simple hand-held gas blow torch in under a minute and Postsaver sleeved posts are installed in the normal way including power driving.

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| Sheep

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July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Sheep

Stamp out lameness in your ewes Lameness is estimated to cost £89.80 per affected ewe, now's the time to stamp out the disease. ameness costs you money by causing health and welfare problems.

Firstly, in ewes, lameness leads to reduced grazing and sub optimal nutrition, which can cause twin lamb disease, reduced fertility and poor milk production. In lambs, lameness delays finishing and even if they do finish, lame lambs are unfit to travel, which presents a significant challenge when trying to comply with UK animal welfare legislation.

ADAS has calculated the cost of lameness per affected ewe to be £89.80. This means that if the incidence in any given flock is 10%, the cost of lameness is £8.98 for every ewe in the flock. Another recent study has shown that flocks could save £3.86 per ewe per year by stopping routine foot trimming and minimising

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foot bathing to control footrot – two management practices that have been associated with a higher prevalence of lameness.

It may not be possible to eradicate lameness entirely, but significant steps can be made t reduce levels to the Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC) targets of <2% and minimise the financial costs producers currently incur.

Lameness will not be cured by one ‘magic bullet’. However, farmers should develop a strategy to reduce lameness in their flock.

Footrot is the main cause of lameness on UK sheep farms.

Vaccination with FOOTVAX® is an aid to preventing lameness in a flock by stimulating immunity to (and reducing lesions caused by) Dichelobacter nodosus, the bacteria causing footrot. Computer modelling has shown a cost

benefit for whole flock vaccination if lameness incidence due to footrot is more than 2% of sheep affected.

To minimise footrot incidence, vaccinate sheep on a whole flock basis, to coincide with high risk periods such as winter housing. A flock health planner, such as one from StowAg, makes it easy to maintain a regular vaccination routine by offering a free consultation service, personalising your plan and recommend health solutions to meet your flock’s requirements throughout the year.

Whilst backing British farming for 50 years StowAg’s knowledgeable and friendly team make it easily the natural choice for Farms, Estates and Contractors. Why not speak to one of StowAg’s SQP’s on 01451 830 400 to discuss your flock’s health planner or any other requirements.

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| Shows

Holstein UK: The Journal UK Dairy Day Preview ‘18 Returning for its 5th year, UK Dairy Day will fill the town of Telford on Wednesday 12th September when it opens its doors for the annual trade event at the International Centre. ith ambition to beat previous visitor records, the UK Dairy Team, coordinated by Holstein UK, are in full swings of organisation with the countdown to September on.

Exhibitor trade stand bookings are at full capacity and feature UK and International businesses, sponsorship packages are finalised, and seminar topics are being scheduled to make the show a varied dairy learning experience. With new features and zones, the 2018 event will offer everything a dairy farmer needs to develop, consolidate, and innovate their farming business ahead of Brexit.

UK Dairy Day brings together all facets of the dairy industry; farmers, students, breeders, geneticists, vets, feed merchants, dairy equipment suppliers and milk buyers - plus professional service providers, charities, and colleges. For anyone connected to the dairy industry, it’s the event to attend this year; an opportunity to network, share knowledge, learn and most importantly, do business at a time of year when important decisions need to be made ahead of Winter housing.

5 Top Reasons to Attend…

1 Over 300 trade stands across internal and external exhibition area 2 A chance to learn about new products, services and technologies on the market to enhance your business performance and efficiency 3 Meet with a variety of suppliers, all under one roof – do vital business, planning and decision making 4 The Cattle Show featuring The National Holstein Show, National Ayrshire Show and National Brown Swiss Show plus classes for Dairy Shorthorn, Guernsey and Jersey breeds 5 A chance to get off the farm for an enjoyable day out – share knowledge, ideas and positivity amongst other producers The Cattle Show The Cattle Show at UK Dairy Day, sponsored

by NWF Agriculture, Westpoint Farm Vets and Wilson Agri, will feature three National Shows, Holstein, Ayrshire and Brown Swiss, making it the must-attend event for all dairy breeds. Lisa Window-Walker has been announced as National Ayrshire Judge, Dr Angelo Pozzatti as National Brown Swiss Judge and Shropshire farmer Mick Gould takes on the National Holstein category. Completing the line-up for the other breeds are James Lambe (Dairy Shorthorn Judge), James Warren (Guernsey Judge) and Anna Stable (Jersey Judge).

Lynden Bustard, UK Dairy Day Cattle Show Manager and Chief Steward, commented;

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“Thanks to the ongoing support from the dairy industry, the Cattle Show at UK Dairy Day has developed into one of the most prestigious showing occasions. Under one roof, visitors, breeders, competitors, and dairy industry associates can see some of the UK’s leading breeds perform.”

He adds; “It is fantastic to have our judging panel finalised for this year’s coveted Cattle Show at UK Dairy Day. With all breeds represented and cattle of an exceptional standard, every year the precision, dedication and passion displayed by breeders never fails to amaze us and really does create a spectacle.

Prize money is totalling more than £20,000 this year!”

‘Sharing Knowledge’ The 2018 event features a first floor dedicated to ‘sharing knowledge’.

This will include table top displays promoting industry initiatives, training providers and charities, seminars sponsored by XL Vets with presentations on topical subjects, and a careers board displaying the current opportunities within the dairy industry.

New Product Zone: this element of the show, sponsored by IDEXX, is open to exhibitors who have launched a new product into the market over the last 12 months after 13th September 2017. Entries will be reviewed by an industry panel prior to the event with 10 shortlisted entries selected to display their innovations at UK Dairy Day with the winning entry being selected on-site at the event. In addition to this competition, there will be awards for Trade Stands, Best Presented Lines, Tidy Lines, Holstein UK Premier Exhibitor Award and the Holstein UK Premier Breeder Award.

Innovation Zone: NEW to the 2018 event, this area, located in the Newport Suite, will be sponsored by Harper Adams University and will feature a range of innovating businesses who will share information on new concepts and techniques to benefit British dairying.

Calf Rearing Zone: producing productive replacements is essential for every dairy business, so getting management right is key.

By visiting this external area, sponsored by Volac, farmers can gain practical advice and tips on successful calf rearing with birthing, growth, health, hygiene, feeding and husbandry all being addressed.

NBDC Breed Village: a dedicated area where breed societies can promote their breeds and membership. Located adjacent to Hall 3, where the cattle stalls are positioned, there will be displays and representatives from Guernsey Cattle Society, Jersey, Shorthorn Society and the Ayrshire Society.

Practical Demonstrations: don’t miss the array of demonstrations throughout the day to develop your learning. The Calf Rearing Zone will offer advice on all aspects of calf rearing. It will be covered by a calf house sponsored and supplied by Northern Polytunnels Ltd and all practical elements within the Calf Rearing Zone will be Dairy Pro pointed. Scarsdale Vets return for the popular beneath the 'Black and White Calf' anatomy painting demonstration and NBDC will lead Type Classification and linear scoring demonstrations. Like previous years, Tim Carter and his team will demonstrate foot trimming and knife sharpening demonstrations, including new block work.

What’s New for 2018…

• Hosting the National Brown Swiss Show • Innovation Zone sponsored by Harper Adams University • Additional practical demonstration by Tim Carter and team showing block work • Larger Calf Rearing Zone • Showcase class for Montbeliarde breed • Additional car park and new Travelodge opposite the venue The countdown to UK Dairy Day really does now begin! With five hotels within walking distance of the International Centre, great transport links connected by the M54 and Telford Railway Station and two airports within an hour’s drive of the venue, there really is no reason why you can’t plan ahead, book accommodation and join us on Wednesday 12th September.

Sue Cope, Event Director, commented; “It is important that our industry is positively represented and that we collaborate for a prosperous dairy future. We must continue to innovate, invest and share ideas to make our British dairy businesses efficient and resilient to Brexit challenges ahead. UK Dairy Day offers a platform for bringing together forward-thinking innovators and producers - a chance to learn, engage and do business.”

She adds; “We’re pleased to again offer FREE entry, so no need to pre-register – just arrive, receive a wristband and enter the venue.

There is also FREE car parking on-site and around Telford town centre multi-storey car parks. Please support UK dairying by joining us for the fifth UK Dairy Day on Wednesday 12th September.”

Join in with the hype on social media by following @ukdairyday on Twitter and liking UK Dairy Day on Facebook. Make sure the date is firmly in your diary: Wednesday 12th September at the International Centre, Telford. #ukdairyday

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Shows

Sparkling celebrations for the Diamond Anniversary of the Royal Three Counties Show The Royal Three Counties Show in association with JCB Paint welcomed more than 97,000 people to the Three Counties Showground over a dazzling three-day extravaganza. his year marked 60 years of the event being held at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, and was packed with enthusiastic crowds enjoying the very best that the British countryside has to offer.

The Royal Three Counties Show welcomed back the Secretary of State for Environment, the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP on Friday, giving him the chance to talk to farmers and producers about the health and harmony consultation.

Head of Shows for Three Counties, Diana Walton, said: “Everyone involved in putting together this year’s diamond show has worked so hard and I want to take this opportunity to thank them wholeheartedly.

“We’re delighted and proud to have served up such a hearty feast of farming and family entertainment and believe that the show brims

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with the passion and dedication of all those involved, from the exhibitors and volunteers through to our visitors. We’ve relished the enthusiasm shown for all aspects of rural life and have experienced the most wonderful sense of community and we hope our visitors have left with plenty of inspiration from our rich variety of experts.”

This year, Worcestershire played Host County for the show with a strong county theme throughout including a colourful Medieval re-enactment camp that focused on Worcestershire’s exciting history. Visitors were also treated to some of the county’s best music and art as well as tasty food and drink.

The Main Arena was the heart of the action with the thrilling Shetland Pony Grand National races and the Red Devils Parachute Team wowing the crowds with their spectacular displays as well as the awe-inspiring Grand Parade of Livestock which attracted huge

crowds at the end of each day.

Talks from the cast of the world’s longestrunning radio soap opera, The Archers, proved hugely popular, as did the new Gardening Hub with BBC presenter Martin Fish and sessions with auctioneer and valuer Phillip Serrell.

BBC Countryfile presenter and Britain’s favourite farmer Adam Henson headlined as Show Ambassador. His sister, Libby Henson, joined Adam as they both entertained the crowds across the show with a variety of talks.

Farming fans welcomed Adam’s knowledgeable commentary on the Grand Parade with applause at the end of each day.

For information on the Royal Three Counties and the Three Counties Agricultural Society’s events, please visit www.royalthreecounties.co.uk or call 01684 584900

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| Shows

Celebrating history and tradition at the Great Yorkshire Show Two unique historical projects will celebrate the Great Yorkshire Show’s 160th anniversary at this year’s event. he Yorkshire Film Archive and Washburn Heritage Centre have both created special displays to let visitors to the show on Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 July see both farming down the years and earlier Great Yorkshire Shows.

In a first for the show, a big screen will be installed on the President’s Lawn to show film of previous Great Yorkshire Shows put together by the Yorkshire Film Archive’s team. The speciallycurated short films will also be shown on the big screen in the main ring and in the Exhibition Room at the Yorkshire Event Centre.

A sneak preview of some of the fabulous footage spanning the decades will be rolled out on social media from tonight and every Monday until the show to give a taster of what’s in store.

Yorkshire Film Archive Manager Graham Relton said: “We were delighted to be asked to help with this project and we scoured the millions of feet in our vaults to uncover the really iconic and most engaging material on both Yorkshire agriculture and the Great Yorkshire Show over the last 100 years.

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“Using both professional and amateur footage shot we hve created a number of packages especially for the Great Yorkshre Show audiences. As a regional charity it is brilliant to bring back this film heritage to one of the places where it was originally shot.

“The show has changed massively over the years but captured in the frames of celluloid preserved at the Yorkshire Film Archive are images that remind us how in some ways it has remained very much the same and I am sure these images will really resonate with the audience at the show.”

The Washburn Heritage Centre at Fewston has also put together a special exhibition of historical farming scenes which will be staged in the Exhibition Room at the Yorkshire Event Centre. The award-winning centre was opened in 2011 at Fewston Church and promotes the unique heritage of the valley. Staffed mainly by volunteers, visitors can enjoy an extensive programme of events and exhibitions and take advantage of a tea room at weekends.

Under the leadership of Archive Leader Deborah Power, a team from the centre has created a series of interpretive panels, both on farming in the Washburn valley

and on the show itself. Nine of the boards feature the show, taking different themes such as agricultural machinery through the years, boundaries, particularly drystone walls, and, to mark 100 years of female emancipation this year, looking at the role of women in agriculture.

Deborah said: “We spent many hours on research, including talking to experts and reading old newspaper reports to gather as much information as possible and we have been able to draw on the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s own archives of pictures. For example, the idea to feature women’s emacipation in the exhibition came from a photo of the Women’s Electrical Association exhibiting at the show.”

The exhibiton will also include an old OS map, showing the layout of the land on which the showground was subsequently developed. Deborah’s favourite image so far shows straw being stooked in a field. She said: “We have a great resource to draw on at the Washburn Heritage Centre and it has been very exciting to be involved in this whole project.”

Show Director Charles Mills said: “We are extremely grateful to both the Yorkshire Film Archive and the Washburn Heritage Centre for their sterling efforts in putting these excellent projects together. It would be marvellous if visitors to the show recognise relatives, events or places that mean a lot to them.”

Princes Royal to visit 160th Show Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal will be a special guest at the 160th Great Yorkshire Show. er Royal Highness will visit on Wednesday 11 July, meeting officials, competitors and exhibitors at England’s premier agricultural show at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate.

The farming and countryside showcase is expected to welcome around 130,000 visitors over the three days to see competitive classes, ranging from cattle to poultry and from international show jumping to cheese.

The event features a host of country skills, such as fly fishing, an extensive Food Hall showcasing regional produce, fashion shows including a

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Celebrity Special and more than 1,200 stands.

The Princess Royal has visited the show a number of times, most recently in 2014, and will be hosted by Show Director Charles Mills.

Mr Mills said: “We are honoured

by Her Royal Highness’s visit and it is always wonderful to welcome a visitor with such a genuine interest in farming and the countryside. We will be able to show the Princess some of the best animals in the country as well as the very best of rural life, food and farming.”

The 160th Great Yorkshire Show will be held on 10th to the 12th July this year at the Great Yorkshire Showground in

Harrogate.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Shows

15 reasons not to miss the 2018 Royal Welsh Show!

As one of the pinnacle events in the British agricultural calendar, the annual Royal Welsh Show is an action-packed event with four-days of exciting competitions, livestock, forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports, shopping, food and drink, a 12-hour programme of non-stop entertainment, attractions, displays and much more… the list goes on! hen and where?

23 - 26 July 2018 at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. For some it’s an annual pilgrimage for the whole week, for others it’s a day out to remember each year. Here are just a few reasons why you should make a visit this year: 1. Animals galore With over 7,000 livestock entries, the animals are one of the main attractions at the show each year. Exhibitors travel from far and wide to bring their potential prize winning animals to the show with expectations of returning home with a highly sought-after Royal Welsh rosette.

There will be plenty of opportunities to watch the judging and displays and to also get up close and personal with a huge variety of animals, including; horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, chickens, pets, and even some

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snakes and spiders!

2. Noise, speed and danger With an exciting 12-hour programme of entertainment each day, you’ll be kept busy all day long. The show is bigger and better than you could ever imagine with non-stop action in the main ring from the minute you arrive at the showground. Whether you are attracted to the majestic horses, the impressive livestock displays or the thrill and danger of the displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy. All the entertainment, attractions and displays are included in your ticket price.

3. The Kings Troop This year, the big attractions in the main ring will be the incredible Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery - the Queen's ceremonial Saluting Battery of superb equestrian soldiers trained to drive a team of six horses pulling the First World War 'thirteen pounder' state saluting guns at high speeds.

4. RAF 100 Celebrations 2018 marks 100 years of the Royal Air Force (RAF), the World’s first - and most famous independent Air Force.

Watch the amazing aerial displays from the RAF Parachute Display Teams. All taking time out of their busy active duties, the teams will be jumping into the main ring each day of the show.

Also see the drill and ceremonial face of the RAF Regiment, and active field squadron, the incredible RAF Queen’s Colour Squadron providing a continuity drill, along with hearing the stirring music played by the Band of the Royal Air Forces Regiment (appearing by permission of the Air Force Board of the Defence Council).

5. Big wheel!

New for 2018, there will be a spectacular observation wheel at the showground. Visitors will be able to sit back and relax whilst enjoying

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| Shows a bird’s-eye-view of the showground and the beautiful mid-Wales hills.

6. Quack Pack The combination of clever Border Collies with cheeky Indian Runner ducks makes a highly interactive and humorous display. You’ll be able to join Meirion and his trusted quack pack in the ring for a chance to get hands-on with the display.

7. Free parking Visitors can enjoy easy, quick and hasslefree parking with our superb park and ride service - just what you need after your journey to beautiful Powys.

8. Shopping, shopping and more shopping!

You really will be able to shop until you drop with over 1,000 tradestands at this year’s Royal Welsh Show. There will be plenty of opportunities to treat yourself as you enjoy a stroll through our shopping avenues and marquees. From clothing to tractors, livestock equipment to jewellery, artisan gifts to furniture, plus lots more! And don’t worry about having to carry it about all day… we have dedicated ‘shopping crèches’ where you can leave your precious purchases until you’re ready to go home.

9. Food & Drink When it’s time for a spot of lunch or if you fancy a tasty treat, just follow your nose. You’ll not be left disappointed with so many opportunities to enjoy mouth-watering experiences around the showground. Whether it’s in our Food Hall, Festival of Food Marquee, Farmers market or from one of the many food outlets, you will be surrounded by tempting tasters produced from Wales and further afield.

10. Big, shiny tractors It’s every little (and big) boys (and girls!) dream. Avenues and avenues of the latest,

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high-tech machinery on display. Whether it’s a new quad bike, a shiny new tractor, a state-ofthe-art combine harvester or a new horse box, the range of kit at the show huge. Enjoy a browse and take a seat on some seriously impressive equipment!

11. Shearing Undoubtedly one of the most popular places to be during the four-days of the show is the Meirion Shearing Centre. Make sure you lend your voice to the national anthems as you watch as the Welsh Team compete in test matches against the national teams from England, Scotland, France, New Zealand. The incredible atmosphere and the noise from the thousands of cheering supporters raise the roof while the skilful shearers from across the world battle though a packed schedule of competitions.

12. Sports Village Bring the kids along to enjoy our Sports village. There will be plenty to keep you, and them, entertained with rugby, football, golf, trampolining, judo, netball, tennis, cricket and more. You might even get the chance to meet representatives from the Scarlets, Cardiff Blues and Ospreys teams!

13. Horticulture For the green-fingered amongst us, our horticulture marquee will be your perfect idyll.

Packed to the brim with an impressive range of plants, vegetables and floral art displays, competitions, trade stands, workshops, onstage demonstrations and talks, children’s gardening competitions, the Welsh National Honey Show and lots more!

14. Competitions We’re an agricultural show, first and foremost, but it’s plain to see from thousands of competitions held throughout the four-days that

there is something for everyone: • Livestock • Shearing and woolhandling • School arts, crafts, gardening and photography competitions • Homecrafts, cookery, produce and handicrafts • Dairy Produce, cheese, butter, yoghurt, ice-cream • Welsh National Honey Show • Pets, rabbits and guinea pigs • Woodlands and treefelling • Woodchopping • Stickmaking • Poultry and pigeons • Horticulture and floral art • Farriery, ironwork and jewellery • Tug of war • YFC • Grassland and silage • Farm buildings • Student awards 15. Join 14,000 party-goers in the Young Peoples Village Running alongside the Royal Welsh Show, the Young People Village attracts over 4,000 campers and 14,000 party-goers as Wales YFC hosts the biggest festival in Mid Wales.

Excited revellers can join in with the fun from the Saturday before the show and be entertained each night by a host of local and national stars, from up and coming Welsh bands to Radio 1 DJ’s. Check out their website for more info: www.yfc-wales.org.uk/youngpeoples-village And the best bit… if you book your tickets online you’ll even get a discount and avoid the queues on the gate!! For more details or to buy your tickets today, visit www.rwas.wales

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Machinery

Agricast’s Double Drive Ring reinvents the wheel Agricast has reinvented the wheel with the launch of its Double Drive Ring (DDR).

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sing the established Double Disc (DD) ring as its starting point, the new Agricast product takes advantage of the patent expiry on the original, while respecting the active registered

design.

The new DDR has taken over 18 months to develop and offers greater durability and enhanced poor weather performance at a much cheaper cost than the original DD design.

Agricast’s DDR achieves better traction by having small cutaways which were not present on the original design. These cutaways or scallops also improve the wheel’s ability to shatter or fissure hard, dry soil effectively.

Like the original Simba DD ring which was designed for use on Double Press and CultiPress packers, Agricast’s DDR is a registered design and available in two sizes – 610 and 710mm diameters.

“We’ve been working on this new product for

34 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

quite some time,” says William Robinson, general manager at Agricast. “We’ve been conscious that the patent was coming to an end which would allow us to offer a better performing product at a cheaper price point.

Obviously, we were aware and respectful of the registered design which still applies to the Simba Great Plains DD ring preventing people directly copying it.”

As well as being around 30% cheaper than the original , Agricast’s Double Drive Ring offers greater durability, being 6mm thick rather than 5mm. “With 20% more metal in these rings to start with we are offering a longer lasting product that will not wear through as quickly on the shoulders,” says William.

Introduced in the late 1990s, the patent on the original Simba DD ring meant farmers were limited in their choice of replacement wheelsuntil now. The patent’s expiry will enable farmers to save money by purchasing wheels produced by non-original equipment

manufacturers.

The Agricast DDR’s are manufactured from heat treated Boron steel, which because they work more passively than a disc blade, will offer greater longevity when compared to cast ring wheels. Like the previous version, Agricast’s DDR is a closed wheel, preventing stones from jamming in them, which can happen with cast rings.

Fully compatible with all existing parts and axles, the Agricast Double Drive Ring is available to pre-order now in both 610mm and 710mm diameters via www.agricast.net or by phoning 01673 857619.

Established in 1987 and based on the family's Lincolnshire farm, Agricast is the UK's leading Cambridge roll ring specialist and also supplies a wide range of press rings, disc blades and subsoiler wear parts alongside the new DDR-610 and DDR-710. The company also offers bespoke alterations and fabrication services.

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| Machinery

First crop of Aussie tillage machines manufactured in Germany The first Australian tillage system built in Germany for the European market has been delivered to a farmer in Estonia. reviously manufactured in the South Australian outback town of Booleroo Centre, Kelly Engineering has been selling its Australian made Diamond Harrow tillage machines in Europe for several years but has recently established a relationship with a contract manufacturer in Stolpen, Germany to meet demand.

The Diamond Harrow’s unique design offers a wide array of benefits including residue management, weed control, soil improvements and moisture management, all engineered in a cost-effective, single-pass system.

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“Farming is still a very conservative industry in a lot of places so people want to be confident, especially with a new, unusual looking product or a new concept like our Diamond Harrow” An initial six German-built machines were completed last month with the first delivered to Estonia on May 19. The manufacture of a further four machines is underway.

Kelly Engineering, which still manufactures in Booleroo for the Australian market, has its products manufactured under contract in the United States where it has sold almost 2000 systems since 2010.

In Europe, the company has sold the Diamond Harrow in Estonia, Germany, Austria and the United Kingdom and is preparing for trials in Ukraine, Russia and Bulgaria later in the year.

Managing Director Shane Kelly said building the systems in Australia and shipping them half

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way around the world resulted in long lead times and other inefficiencies as volumes grew.

“So we revised the business model to source a supply chain locally while still running our IP and management out of Booleroo,” he said.

“For instance, the majority of what we sell in the US is now made there and we manage the supply chain from Australia.

“That model then is replicable for Europe because it’s a much lighter load on working capital and lead times.

“It works well over there because the machines have to be European specific models – the road transport width has to be under 3-metres and they have to have brakes and other things that aren’t required in other markets.”

The patented Diamond Harrow uses four chains lined up in a diamond formation to allow the machine to prepare the seedbed in rough fields.

Each chain is fitted with a cropspecific row of metal discs that rotate and penetrate the soil. The design also allows the machine to work the soil, attack crop residue, manage weeds and initiate better microbial action in the soil by decomposing residue in the top layer, allowing access to more sunlight.

Shane said the systems could be configured for a variety of soil and crop types.

He said they had proven at reducing blackgrass infestations in the UK and corn borer numbers in Germany.

“We see a different mix and match from customers with heavy soils and big production in Germany or a lot of sandy-loams in Estonia and a range of different conditions,” Shane said.

“In Estonia there’s quite a bit of organic production and the disc

Kelly Engineering's (from left) Jo and Shane Kelly with CEO Calvin Stead and Kelly's Estonian agent Argo Kukk of Agri Partner.

chains have helped with their production.

“There’s not a universal reason for using them, they provide opportunities in a number of different challenges.”

Kelly Engineering has sold its tillage systems in more than 25 countries with the United States accounting for about 60 per cent of its orders.

Shane said having more machines on the ground in Europe would likely have a snowball on sales as more and more farmers gained firsthand exposure to the system.

“Farming is still a very conservative industry in a lot of places so people want to be confident, especially with a new, unusual looking product or a new concept like our Diamond Harrow,” he said.

“Typically we’ll sell one or two machines in a year and the next year it will be six and then exponential growth. It’s about a five-year lead in period and that’s been the case everywhere we go.”

Last month Kelly Engineering exhibited at NAMPO Harvest Day in Bothaville, South Africa. The company already has its Australian made systems in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda and Sudan and Shane said it was the next logical expansion target.

“There’s no one African market, there’s lots of small markets – and we’ll watch that space with the same process,” he said.

“When volume reaches a certain point it will be logical to

Shane Kelly making adjustments to a 6m Diamond Harrow in eastern Austria

build locally and we will look for a partner over there but it will depend on the ability to find a quality partner and how our other three markets of Australia, the US and Europe are tracking.”

Kelly Engineering has recently collaborated with the University of South Australia on a product analyses project to improve the productivity and functionality of its tillage tools. It is also working with the University of Illinois on longterm field trials studying agronomic measurements such as soil carbon, weed control, compaction, fuel usage and yield results.

The engineering company is building an R&D facility at its Booleroo Centre headquarters in a bid to constantly improve its products and research new solutions.

“We recognise that supply chain, product development and market development are the key backbone for the business going forward,” Shane said.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Machinery

New Holland appointed Official Partner to the Goodwood Estate New Holland Agriculture, as part of the CNH Industrial group, is an Official Partner to the Goodwood Estate, the unique sporting estate in West Sussex. ome to the Dukes of Richmond since the 1690s, and centered around one of the UK’s finest Jacobean Grade I Listed country houses, CNH Industrial was the natural choice as an Official Partner for the Goodwood Estate. Given its vast portfolio of activities, which range from organic farming, a luxury hotel and a gourmet farm-to-fork restaurant through to its worldclass motorsport events the Festival of Speed and Revival, golfing and horseracing venues,

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CNH Industrial was a natural choice for the Estate’s varied requirements thanks to the product diversity of its brands.

Furthermore, CNH Industrial’s commitment to sustainability was a deciding factor: having been named Industry Leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability World and Europe Indices for the last seven years.

Goodwood Home Farm, part of the estate, is one of Europe’s oldest and largest lowland organic farms and New Holland Agriculture is providing a range of modern agricultural equipment, focused on

improving the productivity and efficiency of the farm. Furthermore, the brand is introducing Precision Farming technology, and as a result, the Estate will benefit from a greater level of agronomic information. The brand’s tractors, combine harvesters, telehandlers and hay and forage equipment are used on a daily and seasonal basis in both arable and livestock environments.

For the New Holland brand, the partnership represents a proud opportunity to showcase the product range in superb surroundings and invite existing

and future customers to the Estate.

A key factor in determining the success of the partnership is also the common focus on sustainability values – with New Holland being globally recognized as the ‘Clean Energy Leader’ and the Estate being one of the largest lowland organic farms in the UK. Synonymous with class and prestige, the Estate prides itself on being surrounded by rolling countryside, where the New Holland blue tractors and yellow harvesting equipment fit perfectly into this jigsaw.

DISCO MOVE – a new front mower with optimised ground contour following With the DISCO 3200 MOVE, available in versions both with and without conditioner, CLAAS has expanded the popular DISCO series to include two new additional front mower models. he innovative new design allows a freedom of movement of 1,000 mm independent from the tractor front linkage, assuring optimum ground contour following of the mower bed. The new mower is available with a mowing width of 3.0 m, either without conditioner (F), or with the option of a tine conditioner (FC).

Highly manoeuvrable headstock with integrated suspension At the heart of the DISCO MOVE mower design is the completely new headstock with integrated kinematics. It is capable of following ground contours giving up to 600 mm of travel up and 400 mm down. Very uneven fields are safely accommodated for. The mower unit is also able to pivot laterally from the central pivot point, which is set at a 30-degree angle. As a result, the mowing unit can swing backwards at a slight diagonal angle to avoid obstacles.

In addition, the ground contour following has been further improved.

The mower bed itself can respond very quickly to finer ground contours thanks to the tried and proven lower pivot point from the current PROFIL range.

The new headstock combined with the low pivot point assures excellent contour following, especially for larger tractors and at higher speeds. The tractors front linkage remains in a fixed position

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and has no effect on the ground contour following. The hydraulics integrated in the headstock also take over the function of raising the mower bed at the headland using a single acting hydraulic service from the tractor.

Also, the headstock includes integrated ACTIVE FLOAT hydraulic suspension as standard, eliminating the need for suspension spring coupling points on the tractor. The suspension pressure can be adjusted at any time during operation again using a single-acting hydraulic service.

On request, the DISCO MOVE control mechanism can be incorporated into the control unit of large-scale triple mowers. The mower is then controlled centrally via the operating terminal, and the rear mower takes over the function of regulating the ACTIVE FLOAT suspension.

Equipment that really works – with and without conditioner The new DISCO 3200 MOVE also impresses with its features.

The mower comes both without a conditioner, or with the option of a tine conditioner. The headstock can be coupled either directly to the tractor front linkage or using an A-Frame. The hydraulic connections are fitted as standard with convenient Kennfixx couplings. These can run either to the left or right of the headstock, for optimum adjustment to your tractor. The gauge controlling the suspension pressure can also be mounted on either side. The

36 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

headstock comes with a handy adjustment guide, allowing you to set the front link arms quickly and easily at the right height from the tractor cab. The drive shafts are low-maintenance, with universal joints that only need lubricating every 250 hours. The new mowers don’t need a park support. When the mower is uncoupled, a parking latch on the headstock locks the kinematics so that the mower can stand securely without additional support.The new front mowers also come with the option of a foldable combined lights and warning panel, double wide angle mirrors to help with visibility when pulling out onto the road as well as hydraulically folding protective side covers.

Prize-winning MAX CUT mower bed

The proven MAX CUT mower bed is a proprietary design by CLAAS, and is also used in the DISCO MOVE. It features a unique wave-shaped bed pressed from a single piece. This shape enables the cutting discs to be placed further forwards, ensuring even better cutting quality in all conditions. The special shape of the skids and the large channel between them allows for a greater degree of self-cleaning while assuring top-quality forage. The mower beds bolted design and permanently lubricated drive components simplify maintenance and guarantee dimensional stability and longevity. In June 2018 the MAX CUT mower bar was awarded the Steel Industry Association’s Steel Innovation Prize.

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| Machinery

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July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Grain

Andrew Symons South Molton, Devon EX36 3L T: 01769 574455

Holsworthy, Devon EX22 6HL T: 01409 254040

Crediton, Devon EX17 1FB T: 01363 720430

www.andrewsymons.co.uk

38 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

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| Machinery

The Midlands Machinery Show Calling all farmers and agricultural contractors…Looking for a great business and networking opportunity to invest in your future? Then Save the Date now! NEWARK SHOWGROUND 21 & 22 NOVEMBER 2018 - FREE ENTRY & PARKING uilding on its reputation as a place to do business in a friendly and informative atmosphere, this year the Midlands Machinery Show will celebrate 5 years. Exhibitor bookings are going well with many of the halls already sold out. Additional inside space is being made available to accommodate the increase in interest this year. Many are returning dealerships and manufacturers who value the opportunity to meet new and existing customers in a relaxed environment where equipment can be tested and the right questions answered for optimum buying decisions.

New for 2018 - the Institute of Agricultural Engineers, “bringing together industry, practitioners and academics to share knowledge and promote professionalism in the advancement and application of technology in the land-based sector”. Companies already confirmed include crop and soil conditioning equipment specialists, suppliers of tyres for every type of agricultural vehicle, steel framed building manufacturers and suppliers of horticultural machinery. Visit the Exhibitor Listing on the website for up-to-date information on who is attending.

Exhibitors and visitors benefit from meeting others within their community, seeing new technology and discussing what advantages are available from investment in new products

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and services. The Midlands Machinery Show is a great opportunity to discover all that’s best in agricultural machinery and products available in the Midlands, and beyond.

The show will again feature a programme of technical seminars in the Lady Eastwood Centre - check the website, www.midlandsmachineryshow.com for more information on these as they are confirmed.

Potential visitors are invited to register their interest in attending on the website.

The organisers are delighted that two key sponsors, Flach & Le Roy and Woldmarsh have confirmed their sponsorship for 2018.

Visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com Twitter: @midsmachinery - #MMS18

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Energy

Proper job for slurry and renewables at Kemble Farms “We’re always happy to see the Landia van turn up when it is time for our pumps and mixers to be serviced”, says Miles Bishop, AD Manager at Kemble Farms, near Cirencester.

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e know it’s going to be a ‘proper job’. We work well together. A company with a can-do approach and a genuine interest in how their equipment is working, is always

welcome here”.

In a young industry that has often tested business relationships to the limit, this bon accord between customer and supplier – who have been on good terms since day one – is something of a collector’s item.

For some, the complexities of getting one’s AD plant up and running has arguably generated more questions and unforeseen costs than actual renewable energy – and during the past decade, many weighty expectations, together with consultants and suppliers have come and gone. Performance is important of course, but the benefit of equipment longevity, reliability and supplier back-up increasingly shines through over time.

Trust is vital. Biogas plants can need plenty of hand-holding – which isn’t helped of course if

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there are warring parties.

Almost a decade before Kemble took the bold decision to establish its own AD plant, four Landia chopper pumps and mixers had created a solid track record handling cattle slurry at the 1450 hectare farm, which today has a dairy herd close to 1,000. Invented in 1950 as a slurry pump with a knife system that prevents solids from entering the pump’s casing, the launch of the chopper pump was a landmark in pumping technology because here was a piece of engineering that could cut the straw often found in liquid animal manure, which would typically cause blockages in less sturdy pumps.

More Landia pumps and mixers, typically 18.5kW and 5.5kW have been purchased since, with the most recent addition replacing a mixer from a different manufacturer (in one of Kemble Farm’s reception tanks) that was constantly tripping out, as Miles Bishop explains.

“Foreign objects were forever wrapping themselves around the propeller, causing the unprotected mechanical seal to fail”, he said.

“We had to keep winching the mixer out,

also finding it contaminated internally with slurry where the power supply went in – but as much as we tried to clean it, flush it and armour it, we were fighting a losing battle. It then cost us when out for repair by having to use cumbersome and time-consuming workarounds – but in the end, enough was enough.

I think this is the problem with off-the-shelf. It was over-specified on power and underspecified on duty, but it was probably considered by the supplier to be the nearest one they had to the application. But, it would never seal properly and worse still, the manufacturer wasn’t interested. They were a struggle to work with, whereas now, we have a decent, strong Landia pump, specified specially for the job, plus help and friendly, practical advice whenever we need it”.

‘Serious Hours’ When Miles took on Kemble Farms’ AD Plant five years ago, he was also faced with the challenge of optimising the AD process, in which at the middle of the site sits a large digestate liquor store (an intermediate tank)

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| Energy

made of concrete. It’s long, narrow and rectangular – a significant challenge for good mixing!

“This Landia DG chopper pump (with a long shaft nozzle) clocks up some serious hours working this liquor store”, he added.

“The tank shape is probably the worst imaginable. It contains the hot (42 degrees C), post-digestion liquor from our AD process, which is then pumped up to our 3000m3 towers, so it is quite a push. It’s a relatively low dry matter (2%) but it is still very intensive due to the restrictions we’re having to work with because of the shape of the tank. It handles 70 tonnes per day. Not many suppliers would be interested in taking on this very arduous 24/7 installation for their pumps”.

Approximately 70% of Kemble Farms’ slurry (60 tons per day) is currently used for the (1400m3 digester) AD process, so there is capacity to increase the 300kW electrical plant.

At present though, adding more slurry would then see the six tonnes per day of the farm’s maize coming out of the process insufficiently

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digested.

Two thirds of the renewable energy generated is exported to the National Grid, whilst the substantial energy costs of running a 19-hour milk parlour are now covered.

“Going into AD was a good fit for us”, continued Miles.

‘Very good quality digestate’ “We knew that we could use the slurry as a resource. Subsidies were quite generous at the time and a dairy is expensive to run. We’ve now created a nearly closed-loop system that makes perfect sense – growing maize and grass to feed the cows, who provide the milk that we sell to a supermarket chain. The welfare of our cows has improved, so we have a better increment on milk sales. We feed the cow’s slurry into the digester to create our green renewable energy – and – we also get a

very good quality digestate for use as a fertiliser. This has very much offset the cost of buying chemical fertiliser by a substantial amount – and has significantly improved the quality of the farm’s soil. The digestate is an excellent product in itself – very fine – easy to spread. Running an AD plant can be a labour of love, but it’s worth it – and this all the more reason to work with a company such as Landia whose quality of service is as every bit as good as their equipment”.

Contact Landia on 01948 661 200 or visit www.landia.co.uk

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Energy

Emission possible: How certification can tackle ammonia emissions from digestate

By Jess Allan, Environment & Regulation Manager at the Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources Association (ADBA) n recent months it has become clear to ADBA and other stakeholders that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has strong concerns about ammonia emissions arising from agriculture and from AD activities (digestate storage and spreading). While the UK has made progress towards meeting emission reduction targets for other pollutants, ammonia is proving much harder to tackle.

In its Clean Air Strategy consultation published in May this year, Defra makes clear its support for AD as a technology, stating that it is “an effective treatment for organic waste which produces renewable fuel, heat or energy and a nutrient rich by-product, digestate, which can be used as a fertiliser. AD also helps to avoid greenhouse gas emissions associated with manure storage and waste disposal to landfill”. The consultation also highlights, however, the role the AD industry needs to play in tackling ammonia emissions.

What’s the problem?

According to Defra’s figures, agriculture as a whole accounts for around 88% of the UK’s ammonia emissions, with AD-related activities (digestate storage and spreading) responsible for an estimated 3%. So while AD is clearly a very small part of the problem, Defra’s concerns arise from the fact that AD is still a growing sector, albeit currently growing at a slower rate than previously seen. To tackle this, Defra’s consultation suggests introducing measures such as requiring all digestate stores to be covered and the use of lowemission spreading techniques only, with varying proposed implementation dates. Defra is also seeking views from the AD sector on what role industry schemes should play in encouraging good practice and implementing checks.

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42 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

What can we do about it?

Obviously it is essential that the AD sector complies with all regulatory requirements and adopts good practice wherever possible. Here at ADBA, we have worked with the regulators and other stakeholders to develop and launch the AD Certification Scheme (ADCS), which includes several criteria which can contribute to efforts to reduce ammonia emissions (such as the use of a responsible spreading contractor). By getting involved in certification schemes, AD operators can demonstrate their commitment to operating responsibly.

The collation and sharing of expertise, best practice and innovation is also essential. ADBA facilitates and encourages this through our publications, guidance and events. At our upcoming annual expo, UK AD & World Biogas 2018, taking place on 11-12th July in Birmingham, we are looking forward to a seminar session on techniques for reducing ammonia emissions, featuring leading experts and innovators. We have also introduced a brand new category in our AD & Biogas Industry Awards that will highlight leadership in this area and hopefully inspire further research and development!

What do we need from government and regulators?

ADBA will be responding to Defra’s consultation on the Clean Air Strategy, and will be particularly seeking further information on how Defra will support operators, farmers and spreading contractors to adopt good practice. With some operators increasingly cash-

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| Energy

Farm sustainability assessment On-farm anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities obtain financial support through OFGEM’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) or Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs). AD plants are required to comply with sustainability legislation which involves sustainable farm management and influences how crops are cultivated. ynertree is a specialist engineering firm that works with farms across the UK. They specialise in energy/sustainability audits and carbon footprints of farms and renewables. As a leading sustainability supplier to the AD industry Synertree has unparalleled knowledge of compliance under the RHI, FIT, RTFO and RO. Synertree offers energy audits to farms to benchmark energy use, reduce costs, and improve farm efficiency. Carbon footprints assist in understanding the impact of their operations and identifies emission reduction opportunities. As Government policy rapidly moves towards low carbon industries and sustainability linked incentives, understanding the opportunities and risks to your farming business is crucial.

Having worked with over 100 AD plants and farms across the UK, Synertree have developed bespoke

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strapped, access to sufficient financial support is a key factor in their buying of new or improved kit and equipment.

The regulators also can motivate operators to go beyond basic compliance and achieve higher standards. We continue to work closely with the UK environmental regulators to understand how they can reward operators who achieve certification under the ADCS; after all, if these operators are meeting all required standards, are lower-risk and are reducing the regulators’ efforts and costs, why should they not benefit from discounted subsistence fees or reduced inspection frequency? We are pleased that the Environment

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Agency appears to be continuing to work on this and we will do all we can to ensure it follows through.

At a broader level, we are also working with Defra to ensure that the emissions-reduction benefits of AD are recognised in the government’s proposed new support system for farmers in England (see my colleague Charlotte Morton’s article on page 35 of the April issue of Farming Monthly).

If you want to hear more about best practice and innovation in the AD sector, don’t miss UK AD & World Biogas Expo on 11-12th July. You can register your free place at biogastradeshow.com.

tools to measure and manage energy and carbon. They have a vast database that is used to assess farms, AD plants, and other operations to provide farm or facility managers with very useful appraisals of farm management, performance, and energy/carbon data. This is essential for compliance for OFGEM schemes but also of significant use to better understanding your business.

If you would like to find out more about on-farm renewables, energy audits, carbon footprints, OFGEM compliance, farming sustainability or related areas then please contact Synertree for a free consultation: E: info@synertree.co.uk T: +44 (0) 7815 152 594 W: www.synertree.co.uk

1.https://www.sciencedirect.com/scie nce/article/pii/S0301421515300756 2.https://www.sciencedirect.com/scie nce/article/pii/B97800810103650000 94

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Finance

Somerset farm scoops HSBC funding to launch new gelato business A family-run farm in Somerset has launched a new gelato business just in time for summer after securing a sixfigure finance package from HSBC. aul and Rachel Candy, who are third-generation dairy farmers at Pyle Farm in Frome, have used the HSBC finance to set up Palette and Pasture Somerset Gelato. The funding has enabled the couple to build a small gelato factory on-site and purchase the equipment needed to manufacture the new product. This includes a 120-litre pasteuriser, walk-in freezer and small trailer to promote the business at local markets.

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The gelato will be churned from the milk of 200 cows that graze on the farm’s 500 acres of land and will be flavoured with home-grown fruit such as apples, plums and blackberries. Four new seasonal jobs have been created as a result of the farm’s expansion.

Paul Candy, co-owner of Palette and Pasture Somerset Gelato, said: “We’re always looking for ways to expand into new markets and our agricultural relationship manager at HSBC, James Ashton, has helped us to realise our ambitions with this new venture.

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We can’t wait to share our gelato with the local community this summer.”

Euryn Jones, HSBC’s Regional Agriculture Director for South West and Wales, said: “We’re delighted to have supported Pyle Farm for 35 years, helping the business become the success it is today.

Rachel and Paul were keen to take the farm in a fresh direction and we’re pleased to have helped them open up a whole new revenue stream ahead of summer.”

Pyle Farm was founded by

“We can’t wait to share our gelato with the local community this summer” Paul’s grandfather and has been selling milk in Somerset for over 80 years. The new gelato will be sold across local agricultural shows in the south of England including Frome’s independent market, as well as direct from Pyle Farm.

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| Finance

Agriculture sector loses out on £820 million a year due to productivity gap NatWest today unveils research, conducted by Cebr, which reveals SMEs in the Agriculture sector could add up to £820 million a year to the UK economy if they introduced a series of productivity improving measures. The UK’s productivity is under increasing scrutiny following the latest ONS figures, which identified a 0.5% fall in productivity in the first quarter of the year. espite this productivity gap, NatWest’s research found SMEs in the agriculture sector are uncertain about the actions they need to take to boost business productivity. Even though more than half (55%) of SME decision makers in the sector believe improving productivity is important, 45% don’t know what productivity means in practice, making it difficult for them to identify the steps to improve.

NatWest’s research, ‘Addressing the regional and sector productivity gap’, analysed the productivity of SMEs across all industries to identify potential changes firms can make to close the productivity gap. Despite these potential gains, the research identified that Brexit and political uncertainty mean just 20% of senior decision makers in the agriculture sector see tackling productivity as a key business priority.

To help UK SMEs understand how they can improve productivity, NatWest and Cebr identified the following measures with the biggest impact: Investment in workplace culture, employee benefits packages and offering rewards for good performance were the measures most likely to have the greatest impact on improving productivity. Despite this, less than a fifth (17%)[iii] of agriculture SMEs said that they invest in employee benefits above the statutory minimum and only 18% invest in workplace culture. Similarly, just 12% offer rewards for good performance, such as a bonus, showing there are significant gains to be made.

When comparing agriculture to other key industries, it is manufacturing which has the most to gain from productivity improving measures, with the potential to add an additional £3.9 billion to the economy. In contrast, the legal sector has the least to gain at £580mn per annum.

To provide businesses with guidance on how to improve business performance and work towards closing the productivity gap, the bank has teamed up with business mogul Sharmadean Reid and Shaun and Patrick Lynn, from Hockerwood Eggs, to create a Productivity Blueprint, outlining the measures which have the biggest impact on productivity and including tips and advice from other successful small business leaders across the country.

Additionally, NatWest has made available £1 billion in additional lending aimed at SMEs looking to boost performance through investment in productivity-improving measures.

Ian Burrow, Head of Agriculture and Renewable Energy, said: “It’s crucial that banks, Government, and business leaders tackle the productivity gap head-on. However, from talking to thousands of our farming customers every year, we know that many small to mid-size businesses struggle to understand how to take steps that will make a real

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difference to their productivity levels. That’s why we commissioned research to enable us to take a closer look at the productivity landscape and identify best practice advice in this area to share with our customers. This correlates with our Future Fit programme that aims to further our insight and capability, supporting farmers and helping them to become more resilient.”

Patrick Lynn, Hockerwood Eggs, said: “Running a small business, it’s always hard to find the headspace to think about business plans beyond your day-to-day, but I think some of the best advice we’ve received has come from others in the same position. That’s why I’ve partnered with NatWest to create this Productivity Blueprint to outline a series of simple steps that any small business owner can consider taking to help their business be the best that it can be.”

Further help can also be found on the NatWest Business Hub launched last month. The Hub provides insight on a wide range of topics, including cashflow, exporting, productivity, ecommerce and keeping safe from scams, to businesses of all sizes and sectors, through editorial articles, videos, podcasts and access to webinars and events. [i] This gives the total potential increase in output from all SME businesses taking significant steps to improve productivity in the agriculture sector. See notes to editors for detail on calculation. [ii] Average difference in annual productivity between businesses which have implemented policies and those which have not implemented the measures but have considered it. [iii] On average across the measures. [iv] Average difference in annual productivity between businesses which have implemented policies and those which have not implemented the measures but have considered it, scaled up for the impact on the whole of the sector in the UK if those businesses which have considered measures, implemented them.

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Education

Vision50 prototype to Askham has it all launch at Kent Count Show Hadlow College, leading educators in agriculture and horticulture, will launch a new prototype at this year’s Kent County Show. esigned to change the future of farming, the innovative technology is part of Hadlow’s wider Vision50 campaign commemorating the college’s golden anniversary as a global hub for all things farming.

The prototype is a large, interactive device that will repaint the picture of farming. It will be on display for the general public on all show days, from 6-8th July 2018, and can be viewed in the interactive Food and Farming Area located in the Maidstone Exhibition Hall on the Showground. For those who visited Kent Vision Live last year, Maidstone Exhibition Hall is Alan Day House.

Measuring an impressive 8m x 5m, the device is a visionary educational tool created for students studying at Hadlow. The prototype draws on current computer gaming technology to create a live simulation environment in which students are transported into life-like farming scenarios for them to solve.

Commenting on the Vision 50 concept, Stuart Gibbons – Chief

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Steward for the Food and Farming area and Director of the Showground – said ““The interactive Food and Farming area of the Show focuses on where our food comes from, the importance of rural education and our role as a charity in supporting this. The Vision 50 concept from Hadlow College is a great addition to this area and provides visitors to the Show with a glimpse of what farming may be like in the future and the exciting career opportunities it can provide. We’re delighted to be hosting its launch event and hope the general public find it as inspiring as we do.”

This state-of-the-art technology is one of a kind. After the Kent County Show, the prototype will be housed at the college ready and waiting for the new cohort of Hadlow students this September.

The unveiling of Hadlow’s prototype is not to be missed.

Available for anyone with an interest in farming, it will be a watershed moment in the history, and future, of agriculture.

To keep updated, see the Vision50 and the Kent County Show websites.

At our leading land-based College, we’re proud to offer excellence in vocational qualifications, ranging from entry to degree-level in a variety of diplomas and apprenticeships. s one of the largest outdoor education providers in the UK, with more than 5,000 students studying at centres based across Northern England, we can ensure learners benefit from state-of-the-art facilities – including an award winning Wildlife Park at our York campus and an industry-standard sheep husbandry centre, beauty parlour and upland farm at our Newton Rigg site.

Working closely with employers, the College maintains excellent relationships with industry, leading to fantastic career opportunities for all of our students in the UK and abroad. We’re proud to have hugely successful alumni, including students who have started their own businesses, manage their own farms and progressed to become CEOs of national organisations.

We offer the opportunity to live onsite at our York and Newton

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Rigg campuses, where learners have the chance to enjoy the College’s range of clubs and societies, learning resources after hours and catered meals.

We’re proud to have hugely successful alumni, including students who have started their own businesses, manage their own farms and progressed to become CEOs of national organisations With study programmes ranging from Agriculture and Countryside Management to Uniformed Public Services and Outdoor Adventure Sports, we have courses to suit school leavers and career changers alike.

Experience our outdoor classroom and bloom at Askham Bryan College – find out more on our websites, visit us at an upcoming open event or apply online today.

ABN Scholarships ABN’s scholarship placements offer students the opportunity to gain experience in all aspects of the business. Offered in conjunction with Harper Adams College, ABN’s 12-month paid placement scheme provides a solid foundation for students looking to get into the pig industry; and this year ABN is widening the offering to include a poultry scheme too. hroughout the placement students can expect to obtain an insight into the whole business, with the first 6 months spent onfarm gaining valuable hands-on experience. The following 6 months are then spent at ABN’s Peterborough head office, split across the various departments.

Students will spend time immersed in the various teams, including commercial, raw materials, feed manufacturing and transport to ensure a fully-rounded approach. During the placement, students are assigned objectives

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to help build their industry knowledge and key business competencies, as well as receiving nutritional training and valuable exposure to the pig and poultry industries.

This annual scheme launches at the Harper Adams careers fair each October, with the successful candidate selected and ready for placement the following summer.

The scheme is the ideal starting point for students looking to combine hands-on farm experience with extensive learning about the commercial aspects of working within a large national animal feed company.

46 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

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| Education

Popular tractor scholarship returns for third year A Cornish family-run machinery company is continuing to support the next generation of land-based engineers with the launch of the third year of its successful scholarship. incent Tractors and Plant, based in Fraddon, has 52 years’ experience in the agricultural engineering industry and is keen to share this knowledge by partnering Duchy College Rosewarne.

The successful applicant of the scholarship gets a work placement at Vincent Tractors & Plant as well as £1500 worth of sponsorship in the form of tools, laptop, a telehandler licence and travel to their training on Duchy College’s Level 2 land-based engineering certificate.

This unique opportunity in Cornwall offers an amazing entry route into a sector that has great career opportunities due to the unique skills required, according to Paul Vincent, Vincent Tractors and Plant Managing Director.

“We are providing the scholarship as we want to encourage youngsters into the industry as it is vitally important that the next generation of engineers is trained to a high standard,” he explained.

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Last year’s successful applicant, Morgan Gratrix, will soon finish his year with Vincent Tractors and Plant and will take advantage of one of the scholarship perks, to have an interview for an apprenticeship within the team. Morgan, 17 from Camborne, explained what benefits the scholarship has provided him.

“I spend two days a week at the depot on work placement and three days a week in college. At Vincent’s I learn from a variety of team members about a wide range of machinery. I have received a tool voucher to help me towards equipment, I have completed my telehandler test and they help me with my transport to college.”

“The scholarship has broadened my horizons, I have learnt about not only ground care, but tractors, agricultural machinery and plant as well.”

The scholarship ran for the first time in 2016 and since has seen the student, Aidan Kent, 18 from Nanpean, progressing on to study an apprenticeship within the company.

The course at Duchy College provides students with all the skills

and experience they need to forge a successful career in land-based service engineering or to branch out into other fields such as becoming a construction plant engineer or off shore engineer.

Danny Sellors, Program Manager for land-based engineering at the College, said he was “thrilled” that Vincent Tractors and Plant has continued to offer the scholarship.

“It shows the close ties that the course has with industry,” he continued.

“Land-based engineering is extremely diverse, it covers agriculture, forestry, construction

plant equipment, horticulture and professional ground care. It is a rapidly evolving industry that is seeing technological advancements at an outstanding pace. Duchy College is a perfect setting to study for a career in this valuable and rewarding industry.”

To apply for the scholarship please visit https://www.duchy.ac.uk/campaign/l anding-page/agriculturalengineering-scholarships/ or call 0330 123 2523. For more information on the range of courses available at Duchy College visit www.duchy.ac.uk

Pershore College showcases ‘field to fork’ industry day Pupils from schools in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire recently received an insight into the many career opportunities in agriculture and horticulture at an industry open day hosted by Pershore College. he event on June 7, provided Year 9 pupils from Trinity High, Redditch and Winchcombe School, Cheltenham with a better understanding of how this innovative sector is meeting the challenges of food and plant production with the latest agricultural technologies.

The day, which was organised by WCG Worcestershire in partnership with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, consisted of industry talks, careers advice and a tour around the college’s extensive facilities to see a number of engaging demonstrations. These included arboriculture, agri-tech, animal science and the use of drones in orchard management. A delegation from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) was also in attendance.

Professor Roy Kennedy, leader of the agri-tech programme at Pershore College, led students and guests around the dedicated agritech laboratories which house the electronic, robotic and computerbased technologies that are used to educate students on the modern applications of agri-tech.

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Louise Laxton, teacher from Trinity High School, Redditch, said: “The industry day provided an engaging and unique insight into the breadth of opportunities available in horticulture upon leaving school. A real eye opener.”

Claire Wilmot, teacher from Winchcombe School, said: “An amazing day, such a great opportunity for our students to experience the wonderful facilities at Pershore College, and to gain an insight into the variety of careers within agriculture and arboriculture.”

Visitors and students also viewed the live field-based experimentation and demonstration facility that enables the college, local horticultural businesses and students to work together on solving industry challenges through pioneering research trials.

One of the industry speakers was Bal Padda, Commercial Director of Vicarage Nurseries, a family-owned soft fruit grower situated in the Vale of Evesham. The award-winning business is currently working with the college on hydroponic strawberry production. Bal, who brought in fresh strawberries for a taster session, said: “It was pleasure to be invited to the industry day at Pershore College as it is

essential to encourage the next generation to look into careers in horticulture and agri-tech.

“UK horticulture offers a wide range of jobs and careers and this is something we wanted to highlight to students on the day. Hopefully they could see - and enjoy - the fruits of our labour, and got a taste of the success we have had over the years. These young people are the future of horticulture and with an ever-increasing world population, they could play an important role in feeding millions.”

Neil Coker, Group Vice Principal, WCG Worcestershire, said: “WCG has worked in partnership with Worcestershire LEP, Agriculture and Horticultural Development Board and local employers to highlight the wide range of career opportunities in food production, processing, manufacturing and retail. Our industry day was a fantastic opportunity for local school pupils to understand more about this innovative sector, hear from experts and get hands-on with some of the technology we have at the college.

“Our LEP-funded agri-tech centre is at the forefront of land-based education and training in the region, with the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agri-technology (Food Production

and Plant Science) providing a superb option for post-16 learning.

This qualification also makes an excellent platform for entry into degree level study or employment.

“It was also a privilege for us to host a delegation from Defra who were clearly impressed with our facilities, programmes and with the level of enthusiasm shown by all the young people who attended this event.”

Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “I’m delighted to have seen so many young people showing a keen interest in Worcestershire's thriving agri-tech and horticultural industries at Pershore College. Agri-tech is one of Worcestershire’s key sectors for economic growth and it’s great that young people are being taught about the many careers available that can support the long-term growth for this thriving sector.”

Pershore College offers a wide range of horticulture courses including apprenticeships, full and part-time courses and degrees. For more information, go to www.wcg.ac.uk/horticulture or call 0300 456 0049

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| ATV

Spaldings Limited Lincoln, Lincolnshire T: 01522 507500 www.spaldings.co.uk

World of Power Buxton, Derbyshire T: 01298 213101 www.worldofpower.co.uk

Lakedale Power Tools Croydon, Dartford & London T: 020 8683 0550 www.lakedalepowertools.co.uk

Ermin Plant (Hire & Services) Ltd Gloucester, Gloucestershire T: 01452 526616 www.erminplant.co.uk

Charles H Hill Ltd Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire T: 01526 388281 www.charleshhill.co.uk

Mawsley Machinery Brixworth, Northampton T: 01604 880621 https://mawsley.stihl-dealer.co.uk

DM Chainsaws Arundel, West Sussex T: 01243 554065 www.dmchainsaws.co.uk

Davenport Western Yeovil, Somerset T: 01935 425311 www.davenportsaws.co.uk

48 | Farming Monthly | July 2018

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Forestry

Finest Woodland winner Elderslie Estates declares its committment to ‘the vanguard of innovation’ Elderslie Estates, which has won a prestigious Scotland’s Finest Woods Award, said today it is wholly committed to being in the ‘vanguard of innovation’ to realise the tremendous potential of forestry in the future. he estate, near Houston, Renfrewshire, has been named joint winner in the Quality Timber Category of the awards and receives the John Kennedy Trophy for multi-purpose woodlands. The judges praised the excellent approach to forestry in evidence at Elderslie Estates.

The estate has 400 hectares of woodland on 1,600 hectares of land with three tiers of commercial forestry and woodland.

The estate’s long-term forest plan includes:• Biomass production and log production • Re-introduction of first thinning to improve timber quality • Establishment of eucalyptus species trials in anticipation of solid recovered fuel biomass production.

• Long-term woodcock conservation project.

• Monoculture restocking largely abandoned in favour of the intelligent use of mixtures.

• Public access provision via what was the country’s largest community woodland at the time of its planting.

• Continuous cover, multi-tier forestry management regime within policies.

• Deer and squirrel populations under proper control, allowing establishment without deer fencing.

Mark Crichton Maitland, owner of Elderslie Estates, said: “This award is a terrific tribute to everyone who has been involved in the woods at Houston over the decades, in whatever capacity, but particularly Tim Mack, our forestry manager.

“In developing our woodlands at Houston we have deliberately pushed boundaries, not only in term of forestry versus agriculture,

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but also pushed the silvicultural, regulatory and commercial boundaries. We think pushing boundaries is what won us this prestigious award.

“We are particularly proud of our experimental eucalyptus plantings and delighted to detect a change in attitudes towards this pioneering species and a recognition of its potential role in a multifaceted woodland enterprise.

There are enormous possibilities for forestry in the future and our ambition is to stay in the vanguard of innovation.

“We are living in an era where the old ways in agriculture are fast moving on. The next step is to push alternative silvicultural systems and crops beyond the woodland gate as part of one of the answers to the great conundrum as to how we manage the countryside post Brexit. There is much talk about the replacement for CAP post Brexit, but the proposals tabled all miss the point. They focus too much on agriculture and at the expense of forestry and rural development.

“When I look at the map of Elderslie Estates and Houston Farms, I don’t see a whole lot of distinct boxes, some labelled farming and others forestry or a steading for redevelopment or renewable resource, I see an interwoven and multi layered tapestry.

“The country now needs a proper “integrated land management regulatory and support structure that also pushes the boundaries.”

Elderslie Estates has been factored by Chris Addison-Scott of Galbraith for more than 30 years.

He said: “The estate is fully committed to progressive land use and it has been gratifying to work with people who take a collaborative and thoughtful approach to land management.”

July 2018 | Farming Monthly | 49

| ATV

Polaris

Inside the development of the new RANGER XP® 1000

Two decades since the introduction of the very first Polaris RANGER®, the historic legacy continues with the launch of the RANGER XP® 1000. he RANGER XP® 1000 is the latest addition to our strong utility vehicle line-up, and sets a new industry standard with over one hundred user-inspired improvements. It features class-leading power (82hp) and torque (61lb-ft), industryleading towing (over 1100kg) and ground clearance (330mm) – which make it is the hardest working, smoothest riding SXS built.

So what does it take to design the new RANGER XP 1000?

Steve Wilcox, Senior Industrial Designer at Polaris Industries commented on development: “The process of getting a new product ready for production involves research, sketching, clay modeling and then a full-size hard model is created. This is followed by A-side Computer Aided Design (CAD) data for tooling. During the early phases of sketches and clay development, a new model can take between 24-32 months to complete a ground up design, with several team members contributing up to 65 hours per week.”

Steve was the Senior Designer of the RANGER XP® 1000, and responsible for the creation of the 2D exterior styling concept that was chosen to go into production and also overseeing the development of the design in clay, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and production.

“I love the RANGER line-up and I’d say that the new XP® 1000 is my favourite as it’s a product of my own blood, sweat and tears - and it turned out great.”

The Industrial Design department can often have five to six major programs running simultaneously, each having their own designer assigned. Very often, Senior

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Designers like Steve can often work on more than one project at once.

“Typically I have direct involvement between three and five major programs at any given time and frequently have a few smaller programs sprinkled in as well.”

Customer insight was used for the developments made to the RANGER XP® 1000 with 100 customer inspired updates being incorporated into the product.

Tiger Bracy, Manager of the Industrial Design team, said: “The “Voice of Our Customer” is always present and taken into consideration in the development of our products. We use online studies, dealer research, ride clinics, and focus groups to gather as much feedback as possible. This way we can make sure we’re delivering on what the consumer wants.”

Steve agrees: “Without the consumer, we have no product. As

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a designer, I am provided with lots of research by the product team but on top of this I always try to collect my own data by having informal and personal interviews with real people and asking very specific questions.”

While customer demand is an important driving force for constant innovation, so is the desire to remain a global powersports leader.

“We update models because our customers demand improvement and they deserve them, but awe also do it so that we stay ahead of our very aggressive competitors.

We aim to refine our models with new features, and push the limits of design to maintain our position as industry leaders,” explains Steve.

With so much valuable feedback and data from owners as well as years of experience and knowledge, how does the team decide which improvements and changes are the most important?

“It’s a balancing act between functionality, performance and style,” admits Tiger. “We rank the attributes that are most important to customer’s needs, and we turn them into characteristics that the vehicle must deliver on.”

Steve concurs: “It’s also a case of balancing what is feasible within the scope of the program. We use our own experience and creativity to solve problems and enhance the

user experience. Sometimes the consumers don’t realise there are areas to be improved. We’re enthusiasts ourselves and scrutinise the experience - perhaps sometimes more than our users this is where we have the opportunities to innovate.

Both agree that working on a product, and then seeing it being used by customers is an extremely rewarding experience.

“I love seeing the products that we’ve worked on being used by customers. For me, the RANGER DNA is ‘Hardest working, smoothest riding’ and it applies to all the RANGER’s I’ve worked on. I’d say the biggest challenge is always having to prioritise the most important styling features because during the engineering process, compromises will always be made.

It’s hard to let some of the key elements go, but you must in order to balance other features. My favourite parts of the latest RANGER are the stance and the styling,” said Steve.

Tiger concludes: “For me, RANGER must have a powerful motor, large cargo capacity, smooth suspension, industry leading towing ability, and a comfortable yet functional interior. All these elements we have built into the RANGER XP® 1000.”

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| ATV

Honda ATV Light footed weed control

Keeping on top of weeds and grass at the field boundaries helps keep arable crops clean and makes harvesting easier. Few machines are as well suited to the task as a Honda ATV and a wide selection of trailed mowers, and mounted and trailed sprayers are available. he best selling Honda range of farm ATVs includes models from 250–680cc, with engines and transmissions designed for economy, efficiency and hard work. Heavy-duty load racks and a tow hitch are standard and large flotation tyres and generous suspension travel allow use in virtually any terrain, without creating ruts and causing ground damage. A new entry to Honda’s range last year was the Pioneer 700 utility vehicle, with a quiet, smooth and economical petrol engine, two or four seats and a tipping rear cargo bed for loads up to 386kg.

For tackling weed growth around field edges or keeping grass short and public footpaths clearly defined, an ATV and heavyduty flail mower is ideal. Powered by an integral petrol engine, the mower’s shackle-mounted blades reduce vegetation to a fine mulch and cope well with uneven ground, pivoting back on contact with solid obstacles. UK manufacturer Logic offers 1.2 and 1.5m models, with adjustable drawbar offset, and a handy wheels-behind option allows

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cutting close to obstructions.

Mounted sprayers are gaining popularity. Typical tank sizes are 25–135 litres, with even higher capacity versions available for machines such as the Pioneer, and most have 12-volt pumps with power provided from the Honda ATV. In-tank agitation and full pressure control allow thorough mixing and precise application.

For field edge spraying most users select a 3-nozzle 1.5m boom, with the option to select just one or two nozzles if preferred. Wider booms up to 3.5m are available and ideal for patch spraying to tackle localised weed problems, typically for small areas which would be impractical for a full size sprayer.

Most mounted sprayers can be fitted with a hand-lance allowing the operator to target individual weeds or spray around gates or young trees. An extended hose allows the ATV and sprayer to be parked and the operator to walk with the hand-lance providing the precise control of a knapsack sprayer but without having to carry the heavy tank and provide pressure by pumping.

Selecting the ideal Honda for your situation will depend on the terrain and the size of spray tank needed. Where slopes or deep,

field-edge plough furrows need to be negotiated then models with TraxLok selectable 2/4wd are an advantage and all 4wd Hondas come with a limited slip or locking front differential as standard for maximum traction and ease of steering.

The popular heavy-duty Honda Foreman 500 is only 1.2m wide and the Pioneer 700 is only just over 1.5m wide making both ideal for typical field edge tasks, from managing a sterile strip to

maintaining footpaths, without running in the growing crop.

Whether your main objective is to maintain clear field edges for ease of harvesting, footpath maintenance or weed control, your local Honda main dealer will be delighted to provide guidance about the most suitable ATV or UTV and accessories for your situation. All new Hondas come with free of charge EASI operator training.

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| ATV

Kawasaki

New “Shinari influenced” Kawasaki MULE PROMX launched

Delivering all the rugged, reliable and adaptable attributes that Kawasaki’s MULE utility vehicle brand is justifiably famous for, the new Kawasaki MULE PRO-MX range for 2019 relies not only on a torque laden 700cc CVT singlecylinder equipped engine but also benefits from the Shinari design philosophy. escribing how the main frame of the MULE exhibits an elasticity that enables it to bend without breaking and return to its original shape, Shinari is similar to how a hunting bow or fishing pole behaves delivering, in the case of the MULE, pliant, responsive handling allied to a life-long work ethic.

Size-wise the PRO-MX offers a seductive balance between compact and full size UTV’s. Whilst the dimensions are conveniently small, the carrying and towing capacity is seriously impressive at 317kg and 680kg respectively.

Turning in just 4.2m, the PROMX has the sort of features previously found on full size

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machines such as electronic power steering on all but the entry level Standard model, disc brakes front and rear, independent front and rear suspension, a contoured bench seat and even a tilt adjustable steering wheel.

Now with doors as standard, the convenience extends to an automotive style dashboard, quadruple headlights and a combined storage capacity under the hood and seat of 14.4 litres.

Looking for all the world like a

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mini pick-up, the MULE PRO-MX range is predicted to find favour not just with commercial customers such as those in the farming community but also hunting and sporting users and

those that simply seek the comfort, convenience and durability of this “go anywhere – do anything vehicle”.

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| ATV

Suzuki ATV

New King of Quads rules the Royal Highland Show Excitement was rife around the new 2019 Suzuki KingQuad 750 at this year’s Royal Highland Show.

Revealed to the public for the first time, the new model (one of three going on sale in Autumn), is the first 2019 model in Europe and has been imported in from the manufacturing plant in the USA, especially for the UK summer show season. isitors to the stand included Suzuki ambassador and Agriscot Sheep Farmer of the Year 2015, Joyce Campbell, who currently runs two Suzuki KingQuad 500 models at Armadale Farm in the Scottish Highlands.

Joyce was impressed with the new model, especially the change to the trailer hitch mount which is changed from a plate type to a receiver type, making it easier to change hitch and ball types quickly.

The new 750 power steering, 500 power steering and non-power steering are evolutions of the current models, with the same reliable engineering and key features that the KingQuad has come to be well known for, but with a number of key updates and innovations.

With engine and chassis upgrades, new features and aggressive new styling the ATVs caused quite a stir at the show, attracting many visitors over the week. The chassis upgrades mean that all three models can now tow an impressive market-leading 600kg, an increase of 33% from the previous models. As well as this, the front suspension, steering system, power steering system and rear stabiliser are all new, which combine to deliver excellent straight-line stability as well as sure-footed handling when cornering and improved manoeuvrability. The handlebars have also been raised which improves riding position.

Major refinements and changes have been made to the engine unit to continue Suzuki’s reputation for high levels of performance and reliability. Suzuki has also introduced a range of features such as a handlebar-mounted headlight to improve visibility into the turn, plus new additional storage compartments to help the rider carry more equipment. The new multifunction instrument panel is also easier to view and includes a service reminder icon, which pops up when the ATV is due for its routine service. Then, once the ATV is in with an Authorised Suzuki Dealer for its service, the work itself has been made easier through the re-design of some body parts that make some components such as the fuel filter, easier to access. Suzuki customers can also benefit from a courtesy ATV scheme, when theirs (any make or model) is in for repair (from participating Suzuki dealers).

KingQuad 750 power steering – 2019 model £8,849* The Suzuki KingQuad 750 power steering is

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Joyce Campbell tries out the new Suzuki KingQuad 750 at the Royal Highland Show

the most powerful of the range, combining 722cc of power from a 4-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, with comfortable, independent suspension and sealed, oil-bathed disc brakes.

KingQuad 500 power steering – 2019 model £8,049* The Suzuki KingQuad 500 power steering includes the same great features, with a 493cc fuel-injected engine, and power steering.

KingQuad 500 non-power steering – 2019 model £7,400* The Suzuki KingQuad 500 offers the same 493cc engine, without the addition of power steering. Nonetheless, the popular model features the same reliability of build and powerful engine that can tow up to 600kg.

KingQuad 400 models – Auto model £6,659* and manual model £6,299* Suzuki also offers two KingQuad 400 models with automatic and manual gear shift. Powered by an efficient, fuel-injected 376cc engine, it delivers plenty of smooth power and torque for farm, forestry, estate and equestrian work. With the ability to shift between two and four-wheeldrive on the move, as well as high and low gear ranges, the two models are extremely popular

with hill farmers.

Ozark 250 - £4,799* The smallest of the utility range is the Ozark 250, suited to yard and equestrian work, but still with plenty of power and high output from the small 246cc engine and a large 330kg towing capacity for its size.

Junior models – QuadSport 90 £2,499* and QuadSport 50 £1,899* Suzuki also offer the popular 90cc QuadSport 90 and 49cc QuadSport 50 for the budding junior riders. With 4-stroke, single cylinder, air cooled engine and electric starting systems, the junior models are just as reliable as the larger range. An engine tether cut-off gives supervising adults peace of mind.

The new Suzuki KingQuad 750 will also be appearing at the following summer shows: NSA Sheep Event at Malvern (18 July) Royal Welsh Show (23-26 July), Black Isle Show (1-2 August) and more to be confirmed.

*All prices include VAT.

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| Motors

New range topping Amarok on sale now Since it was launched in December 2016, the Amarok from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been the only pick-up to be offered exclusively with a high-powered 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine. And this powertrain has stood the current holder of the International Pick-up of the Year title in good stead, satisfying customers looking for a luxury double-cab which is as at home on road as it is competent and comfortable on the toughest of off-road terrain. dding extra desirability to the range, the multi-award-winning pick-up is now available with 258 PS or briefly even 272 PS (200 kW) when using the overboost function. More torque – 580 Nm instead of the 550 to date – is also now available between 1,400 and 3,000 rpm, with full power on tap from 3,250 to 4,000 rpm. Permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic gearbox come as standard on the Amarok with the new top engine.

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The new 258 PS powertrain is offered to UK customers in standard range-topping Highline trim only, and replaces the 224 PS unit. The Amarok remains available with a 204 PS (sixspeed manual or eight-speed auto) and 163 PS (manual only) engine.

Highline adds a host of features on top of the standard Amarok’s already generous specification. As well as items including ABS, ESP and automatic post-collision braking system, climatronic air conditioning, Composition Media infotainment system with touchscreen and App-Connect, Highline gains

18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights and side bars, front and rear parking sensors with rear-view camera and Vienna leather upholstery.

The new 258 PS Amarok can be ordered now. Prices for the new Highline model with 258 PS engine start at £34,325 (basic, excluding VAT and OTR). The entry-level model to the range, the 163 PS Trendline, costs £24,510 (basic).

For more information or to test drive an Amarok, visit your local Van Centre or go to www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

Head up display in the new Touareg The Innovision cockpit in the new Touareg¹ – an interactive digital landscape consisting of display and control elements – is the blueprint for the cockpit of the future. A head-up display lends the perfect finishing touch: it projects a virtual summary of the latest key information into the driver’s selective field of vision. ata (the vehicle’s current speed, the maximum permitted speed, etc.) and visual information from the navigation system feel as though they are projected into the space immediately in front of the Touareg, i.e. the street. This ensures the information is visible to the driver at all times. From a technical point of view, the information is actually reflected on the windscreen as a transparent display – hence

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the name “windshield head-up display". At 217 mm in width and 88 mm in height, it is the largest head-up display offered by Volkswagen.

The driver can set the position (height) of the display and vary the display spectrum; in addition to the speed, features such as traffic sign recognition and navigation guidance can be activated. Warnings (such as if the vehicle exceeds the maximum permitted speed) can also be shown. This spectrum also includes information about currently activated assist

systems. Pictograms and information for the ACC automatic distance control system, cruise control system, night vision assist system, lane assist system and side assist system (both of which issue lane departure warnings) can also be projected onto the windscreen. Finally, the driver can set the display brightness and colour scheme. The brightness is also automatically controlled depending on the ambient light.

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| Motors

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| Motors

Rolls Royce Motor Cars to present Cullinan - the world’s most luxurious SUV at Salon Privé When Rolls-Royce announced three years ago that it would launch Cullinan, it did so in the knowledge that its customers around the world had asked it to build “The Rolls-Royce of SUVs”, with luxury, performance and usability not seen before in the SUV market. Today, we have the great pleasure of announcing that guests of Salon Privé, the UK’s most exclusive automotive event, will have a rare opportunity to experience this extraordinary motor car in person throughout the three-day event. alon Privé is the epitome of a quintessentially English day out. A stunning, relaxing and intimate Garden Party set amongst the spectacular grounds of ‘Britain’s Greatest Palace’, Blenheim Palace, it welcomes several thousand discerning guests each year who attend to enjoy the lavish hospitality of Lobster & Pommery Champagne and experience the very latest models presented by the world’s most famous as well as prestigious manufacturers.

It is the perfect opportunity for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to present Cullinan and owners David & Andrew Bagley are thrilled at the prospect of welcoming this most famous of automotive marques back to their event. ‘With Cullinan, Rolls-Royce has managed to combine class-leading on-road behaviour with effortless off-road all-terrain capability – it is a truly astonishing car’, commented Sales Director & Co-Founder, David Bagley.

Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-

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aluminium architecture, the Architecture of Luxury, gave the craftspeople, engineers and designers at the Home of RollsRoyce in Goodwood, West Sussex, complete freedom to

create the most technologically advanced luxury SUV in the world.

The new 6.75 litre twin-turbo V12 has been completely reworked to deliver 563bhp/420kW and 850Nm of torque at the lowest possible

revolutions (1,600 rpm) and, when mated to the all-new all-wheel drive and all-wheel steer system, an experience that is truly effortless, everywhere.

and will run until further notice.

“There has never been a better time to buy a new Jeep vehicle,” says Andrew Tracey, Country Manager, Jeep UK.“I am delighted to announce that Jeep UK is launching this attractive 5-3-5 programme, which makes an already very good Jeep range

even more appealing. The offer of a five-year manufacturer’s warranty especially gives customers real peace of mind.”

Visit www.jeep.co.uk for current availability.

Jeep to get five year warranty, three years servicing and five years roadside assistance across all models Jeep, the brand best known for 4x4, will now get 5-3-5, following a bold new initiative that offers even greater peace of mind for customers considering buying one of its award-winning SUVs. he 5-3-5 campaign consists of a five year warranty, a three year servicing programme, plus five years roadside assistance.

It’s all part of a major push to further underline the Jeep brand’s

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confidence in the quality of its vehicle line-up, and to offer even greater value and peace of mind to new customers buying a Jeep vehicle for the first time.

The offer applies to all models in the current Jeep line-up – Wrangler, Renegade, Compass, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee,

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| Motors

Fastest ever production SUV at Pikes Peak to make Goodwood Festival of Speed debut The Bentley Bentayga W12, fresh from setting a new record for production SUVs at Pikes Peak, will go from one famous hill climb to another, as it makes its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018 presented by Mastercard. he Bentayga W12 will be tackling the similarly iconic Goodwood Hillclimb course from Friday 13 – Sunday 15 July at this year’s festival. It will be aiming to set new records over the course of the weekend with driver Rhys Millen who is flying over for the event, just three weeks after the stunning performance at Pikes Peak.

Climbing almost 5000 ft through 156 corners at the Colorado course, two-time champion Rhys Millen steered the Bentayga through the 12.42-mile Pikes Peak course in just 10:49.9 – taking nearly two minutes off the previous record and averaging 66.5 mph.

The impressive performance claimed the title for fastest production SUV to take on Pikes Peak.

The Bentayga showcased its incredible credentials, including the 600bhp, 900Nm W12 engine, adaptive air suspension, active electric 48V anti-roll control and carbon ceramic brakes to set the new benchmark.

To help maximise the Bentayga’s potential, a series of modifications were fitted including a set of tyres from Pirelli’s DOTmarked range. Further alterations saw the front seats replaced with racing versions while the rear seats were removed, and a roll cage and fire suppression system were installed.

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“Arriving at FoS straight off the back of the record breaking Pikes Peak performance is the perfect way to introduce the Bentayga to the Festival audience. This truly is an impressive car, and one which encapsulates the Festival of Speed spirit” Will Kinsman, Head of Content at Goodwood said: “We are thrilled to have the Bentley Bentayga W12 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year. Rhys Millen put in an amazing performance at Pikes Peak, and the record he set is a testament to the ability ofthe Bentayga.

“Arriving at FoS straight off the back of the record-breaking Pikes Peak performance is the

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perfect way to introduce the Bentayga to the Festival audience.

This truly is an impressive car, and one which encapsulates the Festival of Speed spirit.”

To celebrate the recordbreaking achievement, Bentley has announced a new Limited Edition Bentayga, strictly limited to just 10 cars. Created and handcrafted by Mulliner - Bentley’s in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division – the Pikes Peak Bentayga pays tribute to the model’s achievements on the mountain.

At FoS, Bentley will also be showcasing its new Bentley Continental GT and Continental GT3 race car over the weekend.

The Festival of Speed is renowned for attracting the best cars and most famous drivers in motoring. The 2018 running of the event is set to be no different, as Goodwood marks its Silver Jubilee, having been staged every summer since 1993.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard runs from the 12 – 15 July 2018, 7am – 7pm each day.

Hospitality packages are now very limited throughout the weekend. To buy tickets or enquire about hospitality visit www.goodwood.com or call the Goodwood Ticket Office on 01243 755 055.

New 5pce Torque Multiplier Kit from Draper Tools ew from Draper Tools is the 5 piece Torque Multiplier Kit.

his handy piece of kit is designed for the removal and installation of highly torqued wheel nuts on commercial vehicles and trucks – indispensable when an air impact wrench is not accessible!

The kit comes complete with two

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chrome molybdenum 1” square drive, 32mm, 33mm sockets and an extension bar for deep dished wheels. The gear ratio of the torque multiplier is 1:56, producing a maximum output of 3200Nm. Draper Tools 5 piece Torque Multiplier Kit: stock number 83635.

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| Motors

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| Motors

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| Motors

Subaru shows growth bucking negative industry trends Subaru UK shows growth in new cars sales across first quarter of 2018, countering the negative industry new car sales trends as reported by the SMMT. ith growth for the safety focused SUV brand, Subaru UK shows positive progress in a competitive new car market which sees the manufacturer grow by 5.5% compared to the first quarter of 2017. This shows a stark contrast to the industry as a whole, as sales fell by 12.4% in the first quarter.

Surpassing first quarter targets by 19%, Subaru sales have been bolstered by the launch of the all-new XV model which accounted for over a third of Subaru sales overall in the quarter. The all-new XV, underpinned by the iconic Boxer Engine and Symmetrical All Wheel Drive partnering, garnered success early on in the quarter, being awarded Best In Class Safest Small Family Car 2017 by Euro NCAP. The successes continued as the all-new XV received a high commendation from WhatCar? in the “Safest

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Car Of 2018” segment of the annual awards, truly showing that Subaru is ‘Better Where It Matters’.

Chris Graham, Managing Director for Subaru UK, commented: “Subaru’s are about safety, reliability and capability at their core, which is what customers know and expect. We’ve invested a lot of time, effort and resource into showcasing those core elements this year and it’s great to see that our hard work is paying off”.

“The new product is going down positively with customers, our loyal network is growing and thriving, and it’s only the end of the first quarter. 2018 has already proved a successful year for Subaru UK and with exciting prospects still to come, we’re delighted that we’re out performing the UK market in terms of growth in 2018 so far”.

Subaru UK continues to push for growth throughout the remainder of 2018, a stance

taken to revive the manufacturers presence in the UK and build on brand awareness amongst customers. Subaru UK is also benefiting from a number of forward orders taken for the second quarter, a position the network have not experienced for over 10 years. The brand also announced, earlier in April, the addition of four new appointments to the Subaru network, with sites based across the UK. ‘Better Where It Matters’ is the guiding ethos for all Subaru models in the UK, with safety, capability and reliability at their core. Armed with a sturdy SUV line-up and the safest small family cars in Europe, Subaru is pushing against the UK new car sales trend, showing growth year on year so far in 2018.

For more details on the Subaru range and dealer locations please visit www.Subaru.co.uk for more information.

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| Motors

Hyundai Motor UK announces new generation Santa Fe pricing and specifications Hyundai Motor UK has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New Generation Santa Fe, which goes on sale in the UK on 1 September. ew Generation Santa Fe introduces an array of new equipment, safety and powertrain features over the previous generation. This is combined with a fresh new exterior style that showcases the SUV design language initiated by KONA, including the introduction of the Hyundai family’s Cascading Grille and composite lamp design. The interior has also been completely re-designed to create a roomy space with a premium feel using soft touch materials throughout.

New Generation Santa Fe’s feature the 2.2 CRDi “R” engine, upgraded with the addition of both selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and lean NOx trap (LNT) to further reduce emissions in conjunction with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, whilst maintaining the 200PS / 440Nm output. It will be available with front wheel drive or 4WD drivetrains, with 6-speed manual transmission or an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission.

The new 8-speed automatic transmission, with enhanced drive mode logic, improves engine response and control when cornering - by suppressing upshifts over a set lateral G level - and engine braking control by raising the gearbox downshift RPM level when braking hard.

Four-wheel-drive models introduce HTRAC, an evolution of Hyundai’s “Torque on Demand” 4WD system. Whilst previously, front and rear torque distribution was controlled automatically, HTRAC offers the driver manual control over torque distribution with the introduction of three modes: Drive Mode Torque distribution (front/rear)

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SPORT 65/35 ~ 50/50 COMFORT 80/20 ~ 65/35 ECO 100/0 ~ 80/20 The new system still allows the driver to manually select “4WD Lock”, which holds the torque delivery at 50/50 until road speed exceeds 19 mph, at which point the torque distribution is automatically controlled as required.

In terms of equipment, all New Generation Santa Fe benefits as standard from 7 seats, roof rails, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, privacy glass, dual zone climate control, heated front seats, drivers’ seat height adjustment, leather steering wheel, automatic windscreen wipers, DAB radio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, cruise control, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Smart High Beam Assist.

Prices will start from £33,425 for the SE 2.2 CRDi 200PS 6-speed 2WDmanual which will be equipped with all of the above as standard as well as 17” alloys.

Automatic variants will include Smart Cruise Control (SCC) and Electric Parking Brake (EPB). The SE 2.2 CRDi 200PS is available with two drivetrain options a 6speed 2WD manual, or 8-speed 2WD automatic transmission.

From £36,995, Premium 2.2 CRDi 200PS 6-speed 2WD manual builds on the SE trim level by offering customers additional equipment including 18” alloy wheels, keyless entry with engine start/stop button, LED headlamps, heated steering wheel, electric front seats, leather seat facings and electrically operated tailgate.

Premium specification also includes the KRELL sound system with 8” touch screen, 10 speaker

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sound system with navigation.

Additional safety features include Rear Occupancy Alert, which alerts the driver to any occupants, including children or pets that may have been inadvertently left in the vehicle when the central locking is operated and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) on manual models and Blind Spot Detection with Brake Assist on automatic transmission models, which automatically counter steers by individual brake application if a collision situation is detected during a lane change manoeuvre..

The Premium 2.2 CRDi 200PS is available with 4 drivetrain options: 6-speed 2WD manual, 8-speed 2WD automatic, 6-speed 4WD manual, or 8-speed 4WD automatic.

The top of the range Premium SE 2.2 CRDi 200PS 8-speed automatic 2WD enters the range at £41,495 and adds 19” alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats with drivers’ seat position memory function, and Head Up Display (HUD) which projects relevant information directly to the drivers line of sight.

The HUD is projected directly onto the windshield, which lowers into the dashboard when not in use and is fully adjustable for both angle and height for optimum visibility for all drivers. Premium SE trim also introduces an around view monitor (automatic transmissions only) and is also

available with an optional £300 Burgundy Pack which includes two tone burgundy and black leather seat facings, dashboard trim and a black suede headlining. The Premium SE is available with 2 drivetrain options; the 8 speed automatic in either 2WD or 4WD. New Generation Santa Fe is available in a choice of 8 exterior colours; Pearl finishes: Phantom Black, White Cream, Lava Orange, Horizon Red and Stormy Sea and Metallic finishes: Typhoon Silver, Magnetic Force, Earthy Bronze and Rain Forest. Horizon Red is available to customers as a no cost option, whilst all other finishes are a £575 option.

Tony Whitehorn, President and CEO Hyundai Motor UK said “All new from the ground up, the New Generation Santa Fe represents a huge step change for the model.

With a new exterior and interior design, elevated equipment levels and premium levels of refinement, the New Generation Santa Fe reasserts its position at the top of the Hyundai range.”

All New Generation Santa Fe models come with Hyundai’s industry leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, Roadside Assistance package, 5 Year Annual Health Check, and 12 Year Anti Corrosion Warranty.

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