Farming
MONTHLY National
November 2012
Inside this issue...
Security Smile...you’re on CCTV
Sheep & Lambing Health, handling, housing
Buildings Healthy animals by design
Farm Finance Are your finances fit for next season? Also Inside: Arable | Education | Energy | Machinery | On Topic | Poultry | ATVs | Motors
THE NEW ISUZU D-MAX EIGER £16,995
+ CVOTR
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Electronic Stability Control System
CD / MP3 System with Bluetooth Keyless Entry
Traction Control System Anti-lock Braking System
16” Alloy Wheels
Electronic Shift-on-the-fly
Heated Mirrors with Indicators
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Projector Headlamps
LOAD LINER TOW BAR FLOOR MATS SEAT COVERS
WARRANTY
01892 510 005 www.lifestyleeurope.co.uk
Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 8AG
Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km) for the D-Max range is: urban 28.0 – 31.7 (8.9 – 10.1), extra urban 38.7 – 45.5 (7.3 – 6.5), combined 33.6 – 38.2 (7.4 – 8.4). Official CO2 emission figure: 194 – 220 g/km.
The new Isuzu D-Max’s five-year / 120,000-mile warranty comprises of a standard 36-month / 60,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty and an extended warranty provided by the importer, Isuzu UK, for up to a total of 60 months and 120,000 miles. The Price shown excludes Road Fund License, First Registration Fee, VAT charged at 20% and manufacturer delivery charged at £500.00. Model shown for illustration purposes only. Metallic paint option charged at £400 plus 20% VAT. Information correct at time of going to press.
Contents
39
12
November 2012
48 57
Features
Regulars
16 18 23 37 40 44 56 60
06 12 14 48 62 66
Security Security & crime prevention
Buildings Animal housing ventilation
LAMMA Show preview
Farm Finance Are you prepared for next season?
Pests More of a problem than ever..
Sheep & Lambing Health, handling, housing
Arable
News All the latest need to know commentary
Education Education & training news
On Topic Solar may be down - but not out
Energy What’s new in the energy sector?
ATV The essential workhorse round-up.
Motors What’s new on the road?
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Latest news
LAMMA Preview
Groundcare Latest news and developments We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or agriculture in general? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2012.
Andrew Poulton EDITOR
Connect with us: Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Edward Hickinbottom e.hickinbottom@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production studio@farmingmonthly.com Subscriptions subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: 02476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com
Competition Subscribe Celebrate 175 years of John Deere by winnning...The Bigger Book of John Deere he Bigger Book of John Deere Tractors is a model-by-model encyclopedia of John Deere tractors from their first appearance in 1892 to the latest 2009 models. This is an updated edition of MBI's best-selling tractor book which sold more than 140,000 copies sold around the globe to include the latest major model line revolution of 2009. Photographs showcase beautifully restored tractors as well as unique paintings and artwork from the Deere archives, rare and valuable original brochures, and studio photos of John Deere toys and models. For tractor enthusiasts, John Deere aficionados, and devotees of American farm machinery at its finest, this big book is an unparalleled collection of pictures and facts, the best look ever at the incomparable John Deere. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Don Macmillan is one of the world's most respected authorities on Deere. He lives in Devizes, Wiltshire. The Bigger Book of John Deere is available from all good bookshops or direct from Grantham Book Services Telephone: 01476 541080
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New team elected to represent Young Farmers Aims for the year include attracting new members and launching a rural road safety campaign. new Council has been elected to represent Young Farmers’ voices in England and Wales and guide the direction of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs. The elections, which took place at the Quality Hotel Coventry on Sunday 28 October, saw three female members elected to the top positions of Chairman and two Vice Chairmen. Milly Wastie, from Northamptonshire YFC, was voted in as the new national Chairman and Claire Worden, from Cornwall YFC, and Hannah Talbot, from Worcestershire YFC, were both elected as the two Vice Chairmen.
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“The National Council is made up of 63 members, associate members and cooptions from across England and Wales and is elected by YFC members to represent their views.” The trio will be charged with leading on the overall policy for the Federation, continuing the development and leadership of YFCs to meet the needs of its members and developing the status and image of YFC to the outside world. During her year as Chairman, Milly plans to launch a rural road safety campaign to educate members on the risks of driving in rural areas. Milly, who works for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution, is also focused on bringing the clubs and counties of the 80-year-
06 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
old organisation closer together and attracting new members. Milly Wastie, National Chairman of NFYFC, said: “I am thoroughly looking forward to representing the 25,000 members throughout England and Wales. I want to be able to give back what I have already achieved within YFC. “It is a huge honour to be elected and something I never thought I could achieve from my humble upbringings. I am incredibly proud and will do all that I can to provide opportunities for the membership.” More than 100 members gathered in Coventry over the weekend to pass motions that affect the running of the organisation and to elect the new Council. Four steering groups represent the views of the members and include: Competitions; Communications, Events and Marketing; Personal Development and Agriculture and Rural Affairs. The National Council is made up of 63 members, associate members and co-options from across England and Wales and is elected by YFC members to represent their views. Through steering groups, the National Council also decide and shape the programmes of work at NFYFC - planning events, competitions, campaigns and training for members. The organisation also elected three new members to the Board of Management – Chairman Frank Chester, Vice Chairman Dr Julia Pointon and Youthwork/Safeguarding
From left: Hannah Talbot, Milly Wastie and Claire Worden
Adviser Jane Henderson. Other elections included: • Competitions Chairman: Hannah Talbot (Worcestershire) • Vice Chairman: David Hamer (Yorkshire) • Communications, Events and Marketing (CEM) Chairman: Gareth Laking (Lincolnshire) • Vice Chairman: David Maidment (Wiltshire) • Personal Development Chairman: Toby France (Warwickshire) • Vice Chairman: Nicola Chegwiddan (Cornwall) • Agriculture and Rural Affairs Chairman: Chris Bateman (Gloucestershire) • Vice Chairman Russell Carrington (Herefordshire)
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Seed event to address plant health and variety breeding opportunities Put November 20th in your diary and get ready to benefit from top professional advice and workshops. he biennial Seed Industry Event, presented by Potato Council, is GB’s only dedicated seed conference and is a key occasion for the
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potato industry’s seed community to meet. This year it will feature speakers from The James Hutton Institute, Greenvale, Agrico, SASA, Potato Council and many more.
UK fertiliser industry sets world class standards – AIC Britain’s fertiliser industry is setting standards in security, quality and service that are the envy of the world, says Roger Brogden, newly appointed Chairman of the Agricultural Industries Confederation’s Fertiliser Sector. peaking at the AIC Annual Fertiliser Dinner, Mr Brogden outlined how important these factors are for the whole of UK farming. The matter of fertiliser security and the threat of terrorism remains high on the agenda. “That the Queen’s Jubilee and Olympic games all passed off without incident is not just luck,” said Mr Brogden. “There was a tremendous amount of hard work behind the scenes by the security services, AIC staff and the Confederation’s members. “The UK fertiliser industry can hold its head high. We have achieved security and traceability of supply from point of origin to the farmgate. And we have achieved it voluntarily. FIAS – the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme – is the envy of the world.” The challenge remains to ensure that fertiliser remains as secure on the farm as it is in the supply chain. Mr Brogden paid tribute to the support that the farming unions have given to the ‘Secure your fertiliser’ campaign. AIC has also achieved benefits for its members through its quality in the health and safety of storage and delivery of fertiliser. This has been acknowledged by the Health and Safety Executive that has notified a number of fertiliser companies that their businesses will not be inspected in the coming year. “This is a great example of ‘earned recognition’ and lighter
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touch regulation,” said Mr Brogden. Again, the UK has hosted a fact finding visit from 14 European countries – a further reflection of the standing of our national industry. While pressure groups will berate fertilisers for all manner of reasons, the fact is that the fertiliser industry has a vital part to play in the biggest challenge facing the planet today – feeding a growing population. The work of the fertiliser sector through AIC is not going un-noticed by government. Mr Brogden announced that AIC and AHDB will take the lead, with Rothamsted in an independent scientific review process to deliver new recommendations for the next edition of The Fertiliser Manual RB209. “I would argue, that only a trade association with a high reputation for quality and integrity could be trusted with such a role,” he said. Finally, Mr Brogden called for a long-term strategic plan for the fertiliser industry and its role in food security. “Our last minister of food and farming Jim Paice, gave us considerable encouragement in his response to the first report of the Greenhouse Gas Task Force. I trust his successor David Heath will continue to endorse our work with as much enthusiasm, as we cannot afford to lose momentum if we are to fully play our part.”
Looking at national and international effects and consequences of Dickeya will be Dr Leah Tsror, Plant Pathologist from the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture, with Dr Gerry Saddler, Head of Diagnostics and Molecular Biology at Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA). They’ll be considering the threat that any infection poses, the effects on yields and how its spread can be averted. Professor Iain Gordon, Chief Executive of The James Hutton Institute, will examine variety breeding advances and how these could affect the entire potato breeding and supply horizon. Further plenaries will feature Kate Cox and Dr Mike Storey from Potato Council presenting key levy-funded work linking Potato Council’s R&D programme around campaigns to increase consumers’ variety awareness. Technical Director of Greenvale Paul Coleman will give a leading breeder and supplier’s perspective on what makes particular varieties successful for growers and
consumers and how new breeding technologies could impact production and end-markets. Workshops will investigate pests and disease challenges, seed storage and handling, quality assurance for seed and ware growers, seed supply chain efficiencies and maintaining plant health through certification. Robert Burns, Head of Seed Export at the Potato Council, says: “The results of our seed survey this year indicated that opportunities exist to further advance the way GB seed is produced, handled, stored, marketed and delivered. The seed event is an ideal place to move this forward, and of course it’s a great source of expert growing and marketing advice too.” The event takes place on November 20 in Crieff, Perthshire, and offers delegates a great chance to network and find out more on industry advances and hot topics. For more event information and booking, visit: www.potato.org.uk/sie2012
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 07
| News
Exciting times ahead for Hampton Steel Ltd: New parts supplier Sparex distributor for Gripple Richard Ashurst appointed Managing Director UK and Ireland to drive major changes at Sparex. parex are pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Ashurst as Managing Director UK and Ireland. With over 25 years experience in the wholesale of agricultural machinery spare parts Richard (picture enclosed) is very wellknown within the industry and will be leading the Sparex UK team through some exciting new initiatives including new product introductions and improved marketing tools. Sparex Group Managing Director Jeremy Burgess commented “We are driving major changes in Sparex and already this year have significantly improved our inventory and service levels, the appointment of Richard is a key part of our strategy to become the supplier of choice for agricultural machinery accessories and all-makes tractor parts”.
A natural synergy between two high quality companies. K steel wire fencing manufacturer, Hampton Steel Ltd, is pleased to announce that it has been appointed as a distributor for the Gripple range of wire joining products for the UK market. 'As one of the UK's largest manufacturers of steel wire fencing, we pride ourselves on the high quality of both our products and the service we provide our customers. We believe that Gripple is a similarly focused company and that their products will be an exciting but natural addition to our range.’ Said Mark Johnson, Managing Director of Hampton Steel Ltd Hampton Steel will be exhibiting at EuroTier, the world's top event for animal production, from 13-16 November 2012 at the Exhibition Grounds, Hanover. Visitors to the stand will be able to see for themselves Hampton’s UK manufactured product range including hinge joint fencing,
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Jeremy Burgess
For further information about Sparex or to browse our inventory, visit us at http://www.sparex.com
chain link fencing, line wires, staples and their strongest, most versatile fencing solution, Hampton XNET™
Next Auctions on 12th November 2012 & 10th December 2012 commencing at 10.30am
08 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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Council uses cows as lawnmooers Sussex Cattle have arrived on Roundshaw Downs in Sutton, South London and they’re already keeping the rare chalk grasslands in check – and saving the council money. he five cattle, a native South East England breed, have been brought in to replace lawnmowers and it is hoped they will give wildlife living on the grasslands extra help by increasing the number of wildflowers and insects and will aid ground-nesting birds like skylarks by improve their habitat. The cattle will keep shrubs and other hardy plants in check. If left alone, these plants would overrun the Downs choking out rarer, more delicate flowers and upsetting the fragile ecosystem. Ditching machinery will also save the council up to £2,000 a year by
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reducing mowing. Cllr Jill Whitehead, Chair of Sutton’s Environment and Neighbourhoods Committee, said: “Sutton is very proud of its Green record and this is an innovative way of helping to preserve the borough’s rare chalk grasslands. High quality chalk grassland can support up to 50 different species of plants within one square metre and bringing in grazing cattle will help increase the amount of plants and animals that can live and flourish there. “It’s also a useful means of saving money and of bringing a little bit of the countryside into the city, and
will give local children the chance to see farmyard animals right on their doorsteps.” Described at the Norman invasion in 1066, Sussex cattle are one of the UK’s oldest breeds. Modern cows are descended from horned, red cattle which grazed the forests and woodlands that covered the Downs hundreds of years ago. The borough’s largest nature reserve is made up of chalk grasslands, an unusual habitat which, in the UK, is very rarely found outside the south east. The thin, chalky soil can support an incredibly diverse range of plants and animals, including rare breeds
like the greater yellow-rattle flower, small blue butterflies and meadow pipits, many of which cannot thrive anywhere else. The cattle, which will be on the Downs for 3-6 months, will be looked after by welfare experts from the Heritage Lottery Funded Old Surrey Downs Project and will live in a secure enclosure, which members of the public and dog walkers will be free to use. Anyone who wants to help check the cattle, please visit biodiversity@sutton.gov.uk to find out how to get involved.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 09
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USED
John Deere 5090 PowerShuttle, only 197 hours, air conditioned. John Deere 5620 F/Linkage & PTO,P/quad, 1430 hours, used for grass care. MF 275 c/w Tanco loader, Roll bar, 16.9 x 30 tyres, only 1552 hours. MF 372 4wd. Turf tyres, 12x12 Shuttle, 3950 hours, ex Council. MF 4455 4wd. 12x12 Shuttle, 2894 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres, 98hp. MF 6455 Dyna 6, F/Linkage, 823 hours, Air cond.cab, 16.9 x 34 tyres. MF 6490 Dyna 6, Suspension, 2696 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 3 speed pto. MF 6499 Dyna 6, Suspension, 3330 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres, trailer air brakes. MF 8480 Dyna VT, F/Linkage, 2154 hours, 800/70 x 38 tyres. New Holland TSA115 24x24 Powershift, ‘56’ reg. 2880 hours. New Holland TD90 c/w Chillton loader, Only 228 hours. New Holland TD5050 4wd. 12x12 – 40kph. 2009, 1135 hours, 540/1000 pto. 95hp. New Holland TL90 4wd. 2003, 5260 hours, P/Shuttle, air cond cab. New Holland TM140 R/Command ‘56’ reg. 2644 hours, weights. New Holland T5060 P/Shuttle 24x24, 360 hours, air cond.cab, 2011. New Holland T6010 PowerShuttle 4wd. 1845 hours, 2008, air cond.cab. New Holland T7040 P/Command, 50kph Suspension, 2008. New Holland T8040 Terraglide, 2007, 3800 hours, 40kph. Claas Ares 826RZ, 2006, F/Linkage, Weight block, 2347 hours. Deutz Agrotron M620 Suspension, 50kph. Creep, trailer air brakes, 2010, 1150 hours. Fendt 820 Vario TMS F/Linkage + PTO. Trailer air brakes, 1720 hours, 55kph. 710/70 x 38 Michelin. Kubota ME9000 on Turf tyres, only 193 hours lawn cutting. Air cond.cab, shuttle gearbox. Valtra T152 Versu 50kph. 870 hours, Creep gears, trailer air brakes,18.4 x 38 tyres. CaseIH Mx135, Suspension, 2002, 600/65 x 38 Michelin 60% Front Linkage, 7378 hours. CaseIH 895XL Duo two wheel drive, Only 1938 hours, 16.9 x 34 Michelin. CaseIH 4230 + Quicke loader, 1997, 16.9 x 34 tyres, 3rd service. CaseIH JXU 75 two wheel drive, 24x24 P/Shuttle ‘12’ reg. only 3 hours, Case Subsidised finance subject to terms & conditions . CaseIH Warranty. CaseIH JXU 75 4wd. 1155 hours,
TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT
16.9 x 34 tyres, 3 spd.pto. weights. CaseIH JXU105 4wd. Only 44 hours, 24x24 P/Shuttle, air cond.cab. 3 spd.pto. weights, 16.9 x 34 tyres, Just like new. CaseIH JXU1100 + Quicke Q40 loader, P/Shuttle, air cond.cab, 3 spd.pto. 16.9 x 34 tyres. CaseIH MXM140 c/w Quicke loader, 2005, 3800 hours. NEW CaseIH CVX 150 Suspension 50kph. Weights, 5 hyd.valves, 4 spd.pto. CaseIH CVX 160 F/Linkage, 5200 hours, 650/65 x 38 tyres, trailer air brakes. CaseIH CVX 195 Suspension, 3350 hours, 710/70 x 38 tyres, trailer air brakes. CaseIH Maxxum 100 + Case loader, 2010, 2774 hours, cab suspension, air cond. Cab, 40kph. 540/1000 pto. CaseIH Maxxum 140 MC + Quicke loader, 2009, 2550 hours, suspension. CaseIH Maxxum 140 MC , 2007, 3990 hours, Suspension, 50kph. 600/65 x 38 tyres. NEW CaseIH Maxxum 140 tier3 PowerShift. CaseIH Maxxum 115 cab suspension, 2012, 207 hours, 3 spd.pto. 600/65 x 38 tyres. CaseIH Maxxum 140 Suspension 50kph. Trailer air brakes, 3 spd.pto. 5868 hrs. CaseIH MX135 Suspension, 2002, 5900 hrs. Air cond.cab, weights, fenders. CaseIH Puma 140 MC. 2010, 553 hours, Suspension. CaseIH Puma 140 Suspension, 2011, 569 hours, 40kph. CaseIH Puma 155 Suspension, 2010, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 1200 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 155 Suspension, 2009, 650/65 x 38 tyres, 2600 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 165 Suspension, 2010, 520/85 x 42 tyres, 2600 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 165 Suspension, 2010, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 418 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 195 Suspension, 2008, 710/60 x 42 tyres, 976 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 210 Suspension, 2010, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 585 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 225 CVX Suspension, 2010, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 785 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Puma 225 CVX Suspension, 2009, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 2334 hours, 50kph. CaseIH Magnum 225 Suspension, 2360 hrs. 50kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres, weights. CaseIH Magnum 310 Suspension, 1747 hrs. 50kph. 800/70 x 42 tyres, weights. CaseIH Magnum 310 Suspension, 3416 hrs. 40kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres, weights. CaseIH Magnum 335, 2773 hrs. 40kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres, AFS Screen, weights. CaseIH Magnum 340, 436 hrs. 50kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres, Accuguide, weights.
Trailer air brakes, cab suspension. CaseIH STX Quadtrac 480, Linkage + pto. 2006, 5030 hours, 30” tracks. CaseIH STX Quadtrac 500, Linkage + pto. 2005, 5312 hours, 36” tracks. NEW Puma 140 tier3 Powershift 40kph. NEW Puma 170 Suspension 50kph. NEW Puma 215 Suspension 50kph. NEW Quantum 65c 2 wheel drive. NEW Quantum 65c 4wd. NEW Quantum 75c 4wd. NEW JXU85 4wd Synchro Shuttle. NEW JX95 4wd PowerShuttle. NEW JX90 4wd. NEW JX90 4wd + NEW Chillton loader. CONSTRUCTION JCB JS130, 4300 hours, buckets, cab guards. JCB 8045 ZTS, 1590 hours, quick attach. Takuchi TB125, 2007, 2146 hours, buckets. JCB 2cx Streetmaster, 1997, Extradig. JCB 3cx 4wd. 1994, manual gearbox. JCB 3cx Turbo Sitemaster, 2005, 4900 hours. Case 580 SLE, 2001, 4544 hours, a/cond.cab. Case 580 Super R, 2007, 998 hours, air cond. Case 580K Turbo, PowerShuttle, 4467 hours. Hitachi ZX Zaxis 210LC-3, 2010, 938 hours. TELESCOPICS JCB 535-95 PowerShift ‘60’ reg. 280 hours. JCB 540-40 Compact, 2007, 1043 hours. JCB 520-50 Compact, 1997, 4950 hours. JCB 528-70, 2156 hrs. ex water Authority. JCB 310s, 2010, pallet forks,hyd.latching. Manitou MLT 634-120 LSU Turbo, 2008. Manitou 420 Buggiescopic, 4200 hours. Manitou M26-4 forklift, 3022 hours. Merlo P25.9, axle sideshift, hyd.latching. Caterpiller TH330 PowerShift, 2006, 5430 hrs. HEDGECUTTERS NEW PA6570 Revolution, linkage. NEW PA5455 XTC. 1.2m head. NEW PA55 XTC, 1.2m head. Used PA93e Hi Power, 1.2m head. Used PA95 switchbox, 1.2m head. Used PA35 switchbox, 1.2m head. TRAILERS Weeks 3 ton dropside, very clean. Marston 4 ton drop side. Henton 10 ton Sileage.
Marston 14 ton grain, 2010, hyd.door, Air & hyd.brakes, super singles. COMBINES Demo CASEIH 5088, 2011, 35 hours, 20’ vario + trolly, side knives, ready to go. CASEIH Warranty. CASEIH Subsidised Finance. NEW CASEIH 7088, 2012, 25’ Vario + trolly, side knives, ready to go. CASEIH Warranty. CASEIH Subsidised Finance. NEW CASEIH 9120 AFS, 2012, 35’ Vario + trolly, side knives, ready to go. CASEIH Warranty. CASEIH Subsidised Finance. CASEIH 9230 AFS, 2012, 35’ Vario + trolly, side knives, ready to go. CASEIH Warranty. CASEIH Subsidised Finance. Finance offered subject to terms & conditions. John Deere 1177 c/w 816 header, Chopper, Spreader, trolly. John Deere 9780 CTS Hillmaster, 22’ header & trolly, 1560 hours, 2002. Claas Dominator 76, 13’ header. CULTIVATION EQUIPMENT Knoche 938 cultivator, tines,discs, crumble roller, 2002. FarmForce 4 metre trailed press, Tines, cast rings & L/ board, Hyd. Fold. Vicon 6.6m air drill, Suffolk coulters, Electric controls. Simba Horsch 6m drill, 2003, hyd.fold, Tram lining, pre emergence. Vaderstad 600P drill, rigid tine, hyd. Fan, 1997. McConnel 7 leg Shakerator, flexicoil, Wide depth wheels. McConnel 3m Discearator, 7 legs, Demonstrator. Lemken 5 furrow vari width plough. Gregoire Besson 12 furrow semi-mounted Plough, reversible, 2003. Gregoire Besson 6+1 semi-mounted Plough, reversible. Amazone 3 metre Power harrow/drill Combination, levelling board, drill stand. Vaderstad Carrier CR300, 2004, weights, 3 point linkage mounted. DEMO McConnel PT270 topper, Last one for this season. NEW McConnel PA6570 hedgecutter, 1.5m head, telescopic, linkage mtd. Revolution controls, EDS, Hyd.roller. NEW McConnel PA5455 hedgecutter, 1.2m head, linkage mtd. XTC controls. NEW PA55 XTC controls, 1.2m head, Linkage mounted, 5.4m reach. A.S. Marston 14 ton + capacity, 2010, Air brakes, hyd.door, fast axles, Grain door, excellent condition.
Website with photographs : www.startintractors.co.uk
10 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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Boumatic presents a full range of BLUEMAX® Teet Dips BouMatic, a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of high quality milking systems and dairy equipment, is pleased to announce the launch of its full range of BlueMAX teat dips. ur BlueMAX family of teat dip products are among the dairy industry’s strongest weapons in the fight against mastitis-causing bacteria,” said Hugues Legrand, Associate Hygiene Brand Manager. Dairy experts agree that healthy teat skin is an essential part of overall teat and udder health. Our BlueMAX range of 5 products offers a full answer to the dairy farmer’s needs in teat dipping before and after milking” he adds. The BlueMAX family consists of 5 teat dipping products: Premium (pre and post dip), Xtrem (post-dip), Barrier (protection between milkings) and two pre-dipping products BClean and DControl. Each product has beneficial characteristics and comes in various application options such as foaming, dipping or spraying. This allows the dairy farmer to choose the product that suits his particular farm
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conditions the best. One thing that sets the BlueMAX products apart from the competition is the Chlorine Dioxide ready-to-use formula, it doesn’t need to be mixed before use. The BlueMAX Premium and BlueMAX Xtrem are well known for their all-in-one formula which reduces cost, increases efficiency and offers the germ-killing results that the dairy farmer demands. “BlueMAX teat dips are packed with emollients – the special skin conditioning ingredients that keep teats smooth and soft and replace natural oils lost through disinfection and milking. Each BlueMAX Teat Dips uses a combination of 3 types of emollients for the healthiest teat skin. First, the humectants absorb air moisture and transfer it to the teat skin. Second, the occlusive agents prevent water from evaporating off of the skin. Finally,
the moisturizers add water directly from the emollient to the skin. Combining the properties of these three types of emollients into one BlueMAX teat dip provides more effective teat skin conditioning than any single emollient can deliver on its own.” Legrand explains. “In the end our goal is to strive for healthy dairy cows and quality milk” he concludes. “We want to help the dairy farmer to grow his profitability with the best products for his particular farm”, Legrand concludes. All of the BlueMAX family products are suitable for organic farming. The teat dips are available through the BouMatic dealer network.
Good cause also raises awareness of food waste Produce World teams up with FareShare to feed the needy for the second consecutive year. roduce World, the UK’s largest grower and supplier of fresh vegetables, will be working with food distribution charity FareShare for a second consecutive year. The partnership will see Produce World and FareShare join forces to help feed those in need, while raising awareness of food waste in the supply chain. Last year saw Produce World Marshalls, based in Boston, host a gleaning day. Charity volunteers and Produce World staff worked together and harvested the fields, producing 120 trays of vegetables for FareShare, which were sent to
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Trafalgar Square in London to provide a free lunch for 5,000 people. Due to the success of last year’s event, Produce World Marshalls will once again be welcoming charity workers and staff to participate in a similar gleaning day on Monday, 12th November from 9 a.m. Produce World Marshalls’ trial fields will be gleaned and it is predicted that around one tonne of fresh produce will be harvested and distributed by FareShare in Hull to its beneficiaries, including homeless shelters, mental health charities and elderly day care centres.
The trial fields at Produce World Marshalls are some of the largest in East Anglia and contain over 100 different varieties of brassicas in numbers which are too small for them to be commercially feasible. The trial fields allow Produce World to continually innovate, while constantly assessing viability. William Burgess, Produce World CEO, said: “At Produce World we are committed to reducing waste in the supply chain. As far as our business practice is concerned, none of our fresh produce goes to waste. Produce that is not sold into retail due to specification is
used for processing or for livestock feed.” Lindsay Boswell, FareShare CEO, said: “We’re delighted that Produce World has decided to support our charity again this year. It’s impressive how Produce World strives to eliminate all waste in its business practice and we hope that events such as this will help to raise awareness of food waste in the supply chain. We are incredibly grateful for Produce World’s donation and we’re sure that those who receive the fresh produce will be delighted.”
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 11
| Education
Rural career top of the timetable Farming and the countryside as a career choice for young people will be put firmly in the spotlight for teachers and careers advisors from across the region at a conference on Thursday 8th November. he event, which will be held at Askham Bryan College, York will aim to show that there’s far more to a rurally orientated career than driving a tractor or looking after animals. It is organised by the Food, Farming and Rural Network in conjunction with the College, Science City York and the Yorkshire Agricultural Society. Entitled: "A Future in Food Farming & The Environment, A Career to Consider", it follows last year's successful conference which was attended by more than 100 delegates. And a number of new sectors have been added. Steve Willis, Chair of the Food, Farming and Rural Network said: "There's a misconception that choices for a career in the countryside are quite narrow and of course that’s not the case. There’s huge choice out there – from working in agricultural research to becoming a vet to developing new food products. There’s huge potential for talented young people and by talking to careers advisors and teachers, we want to get that message out there.” Ellie Harrison of BBC TV's Countryfile will launch what will be the third careers event. She will
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address business leaders and careers advisors from across the North of England with delegates representing a range of interests – from Cambridge University, to secondary Yorkshire schools to the Youth Support Service in the East Riding. After Ms Harrison’s introduction, delegates can tour the college campus where options and career paths in five sectors are presented "From Farm to Fork" – which highlights the many and varied aspects of food production, "Going Green" - for careers in the environmental sector; and careers in the business, the equine industry and science. Representatives from businesses and organisations across all the sectors will be available to give more detail and talk through the opportunities. Pre registration is required. Lunch is provided. For a free place and for further information contact 01904 772269 or email marketing@askham-bryan.ac.uk The conference is organised in partnership with The Yorkshire Food, Farming & Rural Network, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and SCY, formerly Science City York.
Ellie Harrison, of BBC TVís Countryfile who will be the keynote speaker at the event
Agricultural students to benefit from Centenary Award Five postgraduate agricultural students from across the UK have been selected to receive a bursary from The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust – the ‘Centenary Award’. he award scheme, launched by large rural insurer NFU Mutual to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2010, gives annual bursaries to pay 75% of course fees for selected post graduate students in agriculture. 2012 was the third year of the scheme, and the following five students have been selected for the award this year: • Francine Gilman, MSc Livestock Production Science, Writtle College • James Hill, MSc Rural Estate Management, Royal Agricultural College. • Lynne Harbison, MSc Agricultural Development Economics, The University of Reading. • Stephanie Collingbourne, PhD in Agriculture (pig genetics), Writtle College. • Georgia Mitrousia, PhD in Life Sciences (prevention of disease in oilseed rape), The University of Hertfordshire. In talking about the award, Richard Percy, NFU Mutual Chairman, said: “At NFU Mutual we recognise the crucial role students in agriculture play in the future of the industry. Our
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12 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
aim for the Centenary Award scheme is to create a long-standing legacy for the future, and highlight our commitment to young people and the countryside.” The award was open to students who had gained, or were expected to gain, a 2:1 or above in agriculture or a closely related degree, and had been accepted on a Masters or PhD course in agriculture in the UK. To select the students, the award’s judging panel looked for applicants who were not only excellent academic performers, but were also committed to the future of agriculture. The objective was to select potential rural leaders of the future, so that the bursary payments will not only help the individual students, but also benefit the agricultural industry at large. Mr Percy added: “As a rural insurer, with its history interwoven in farming, NFU Mutual recognises the challenges facing the agricultural industry such as climate change, food security, and international agricultural development.” In response to this, the NFU Mutual
Charitable Trust specifically identified three topic areas of interest for the 2012 award – which had to be a main part of the student’s course: • Sustainable agriculture • Climate change and agriculture • International agricultural development The Centenary Award is a long-term scheme, and bursaries will again be available in 2013. Next year a new topic area will be added to the award criteria - the application of science and innovative technology to the agricultural industry. Applications for the award next year will be invited from the start of January 2013 Information about the scheme can be found on the NFU Mutual website: www.nfumutual.co.uk In the meantime, prospective post graduate agricultural students who would like to find out more about the award can contact centenary_award@nfumutual.co.uk.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Education
Countryside Management students flourishing Superb progress makes staff proud. he futures of Walford and North Shropshire College students who completed the Countryside Management course in 2012 are truly looking bright. Staff at Walford are thrilled with the superb progress their students have made in just a few short months. Eighteen-year olds, Alex Joseph from Brecon, and Lara Eyke from Oswestry, have both progressed on to a degree programme at Harper Adams University College. They have settled into university life very quickly and are really enjoying the experience. Alex says, “Having lived in halls at the Walford Campus, I had a good idea of what to expect when I moved to Harper. My tutors at Walford were superb. They knew that Laura and I wanted to study at university and they really pushed us to achieve distinctions in our BTEC to enable us to do this.” Alex and Laura can be confident
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that the quality of teaching will remain just as high at Harper Adams; Zoe Jones, their tutor whilst at Walford, also teaches on the degree course at Harper. As well as recently securing the coveted position of Trainee National Park Ranger for Northumberland National Park, 19year-old Josh Higgins from Wem was also interviewed by John Craven for a recent BBC Countryfile programme. Josh puts his success entirely down to completing the two-year Diploma in Countryside Management course at Walford. Josh says, “The course was absolutely brilliant. I’d recommend it to anyone. The tutors were wonderful. They were always there to help whenever you needed them. Thanks to that course I had eight weeks’ work experience, with three different National Parks and I gained seven practical professional qualifications; including use of a
Improve stock skills
Chainsaw and Brushcutters. These extra qualifications were really important in helping me to obtain my current position.” Paul Roberts, a mature student, from Chirk Bank, is making good use of the knowledge and skills developed whilst at Walford by doing superb work as a volunteer with the British Mammal Society. Paul was responsible for working with the Society and the College to host the recent, very successful, BioBlitz event, when delegates were thrilled to see a huge range of wild mammals flourishing on the College estate.
Paul O’Hagan Course Tutor comments, “All the staff are delighted with our students’ achievements. They are real testaments not only to their efforts and commitment but also to the range of challenges they have undertaken on this course; challenges that have perfectly prepared them for the next steps in their various careers.” For more information about Countryside Management courses please visit the website at www.wnsc.ac.uk or telephone 01939 262100
With help from a new Meat for the Market training DVD, funded by Defra for the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC). he useful tool will mean Young Farmers can get to grips with the basics of stock judging to develop their skills at home, on the farm and for YFC competitions. The 20-minute film, produced by EBLEX, explains which parts of the animals are most important and how to judge them both alive and as carcasses. It also explains how to give reasons during judging, using both live and carcase examples. The DVD will be available to members on the NFYFC website and EBLEX has funded the production of 1,500 copies of the DVD for NFYFC to distribute to counties for members who cannot access the online resource. Good stock judging skills are increasingly important in livestock farming because of the constant pressure to match animals to market demands. The DVD is just part of a range of materials and training that NFYFC and EBLEX are working on together. The two organisations have also produced a Guide to Stock Judging, which is available in print and on the NFYFC website,
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and they are currently running free Meat for the Market training, with a beef event taking place on 18 October in Chesterfield. Helen Reeve, Agriculture Chairman, said: “The Agriculture committee works with industry to ensure that our farming and competing members have up-to-date knowledge for the market they are producing or training for. Our competitions and training provide a good route for knowledge transfer and this is validated by backing from Defra. The working relationship with EBLEX is valued and of great benefit for YFC members and future farmers.” Katie Brian, Project Manager, EBLEX said: “EBLEX has given our time to help produce this for the next generation of farmers because it is a core area, and selecting stock to meet market demand is very important. We felt it was important to produce some hard copies of the DVD for those members who have limited or no access to the internet. We hope the clubs and counties find it a useful learning tool for both current and new members over the coming years.”
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 13
| On Topic
On Topic
“I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Roof!” Renewable Resources helps fruit wholesaler significantly cut energy bills with installation of solar technology. ore and more businesses in the agriculture field are looking for ethically sourced goods and reduced carbon emissions from their partners up and down the supply chain. Being environmentally conscious itself, Ivan Wood and Sons – a family-run fruit and potato wholesaler – saw growing interest from its customers in such credentials. For the company, which supplies all types of fresh products and owns most of the resources used in its production process, it was a natural progression to shift to renewable energy. Ivan Wood and Sons worked closely with Scotland-based Renewable Resources (Energy Solutions) Ltd to select and install the ideal roof-mounted solar energy system on its facilities. In partnership with solar market leaders, Renewable Resources offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy solutions to help its customers lower carbon
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emissions, improve long-term energy security, and ultimately reduce electricity costs. The company has an extensive expertise in roofing technologies and an outstanding track record in rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations throughout the UK. Renewable Resources completed two installations for Ivan Wood and Sons – a 3.68 kW system on the roof of the family house and a 40kW system on the refrigerated warehouse. The panels have produced more than 35 kW of power in 2011, decreasing the company’s electricity bills by 75% and protecting it from rising energy costs. Additionally, the business’s carbon footprint was cut by 18 tonnes per year, giving the company strong statistics to share with customers to demonstrate its commitment to reducing environmental impact. Always Fresh Ivan Wood and Sons supplies fresh fruits and vegetables to the
large number of hotels, restaurants and universities throughout Scotland. The firm was set up by Ivan Wood Snr in 1970 and now employs 30 staff members in the towns of Eastfield, Navity Farm and Ballingry in Scotland. The two brothers, Ivan Jnr and Malcolm, set out plans to expand the business further, while upholding the company’s commitment to ethical and environmentally friendly principles. “At Ivan Wood and Sons we look after the environment and try to minimise our negative impact. We employ environmentally conscious staff and work with likeminded customers. It is increasingly important for both of these important stakeholders to see the real difference to our footprint”, said Ivan Wood Jnr, Director, Ivan Wood and Sons. “We produce fresh fruits and vegetables, have our own water source and buy products from local farmers. It was a logical decision for us to turn to
Solar technology is down but not out
About Renewable Resources Established in 2008, Renewable Resources has supplied over 300 homes and businesses with renewable energy solutions. In 2012, the company successfully completed 6.9 Megawatts (MW) PV installation at 115 Sainsbury’s stores across the South of England. To capitalise on the enormous growth in the PV sector in North America, Renewable Resources also launched its US branch in 2012. The company now employs over 100 people and is fully accredited through the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). For more information, please contact John Devlin on Tel: +44 (0) 7818 402575 or visit www.rr-ltd.com/commercial
About Ivan Wood and Sons Ivan Wood and Sons is a family run wholesale fruit and potato company. Established in 1970, it now employs 30 fully trained staff to meet the requirements of some of the most prestigious hotels and restaurants throughout Scotland. Ivan Wood Jnr and Malcolm Wood inherited the business from their father, Ivan Wood Snr, rapidly expanded and moved it into the current premises at Eastfield, Navity Farm, Ballingry. The company offers its customers raw and ready-for-the-plate fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as freshly squeezed orange juice. The farm meets the standards of the ISO 9000 Operating Certificate.
14 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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| On Topic
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the results,” said Wood Jnr. “Our average energy bills are reduced by 65-90% monthly depending on the season. With such a strong financial return I am anticipating fully recovering our initial investment within six years of the installation”. “I just wish we had a bigger roof”, added his brother. Renewable Resources’ solar solution not only makes a big difference in the energy consumption but also significantly decreases the merchants’ carbon footprint. The farm is now offsetting 18 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. This installation of solar panels is a part of the wholesaler’s wider commitment to reduce the environmental impact of operations. More than Just an Installer Renewable Resources acted as a partner rather than just an installer in helping Ivan Wood and Sons to evaluate the options and design the system that met the company’s individual requirements. The proximity of Renewable Resources and the responsiveness of the team enabled them to act fast in evaluating the wholesaler’s needs and proposing the best available solution. “My main requirement was to find a company that is fully accredited to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme. I contacted three different solar PV installers that day. One of them had never got back to me, another one phoned back 3 weeks after the installation was completed, whereas Renewable Resources were at my farm the very same afternoon,” said Wood Jnr. “Renewable Resources turned out to be an extremely knowledgeable team to work with. Paul Gribben, the Chief Executive of the company, has a background in roofing and dropped by himself during the consultation stage”. Renewable Resources works with market leaders to provide its customers with the most efficient and highest-quality solar
technologies. Mitsubishi panels used on both the family house and warehouse were chosen due to their outstanding weatherability, high load capacity and double corrosion resistance to ensure the systems withstand extreme weather conditions of Scotland. The solar modules offer up to 15% efficiency through their lifetime and are ideal for pitched roofs. Renewable Resources’ commitment to highly reliable and durable technologies allowed the company to provide a 25-year guarantee. The installation took place in early winter and one of the challenges was to complete it before the snow. Easy integration of the solar panels on the warehouse ensured a rapid, fourday installation process with no disruption to business operations. “Renewable Resources offers full installation services from survey to aftersales support without using subcontractors,” said Paul Gribben, Chief Executive, Renewable Resources. “It allowed us to complete the installation at the Ivan Wood and Sons farm within days, while also ensuring the best quality with our highly experienced in-house team of experts”. Going Green The solar PV installation at Ivan Wood and Sons farm shows that by investing in green technologies, SMEs can significantly reduce carbon emissions and electricity costs, while creating a better environment for both customers and suppliers. Since 2010, Ivan Wood and Sons’ business has grown and the brothers are looking to expand it even further. “From now on we will use solar PV systems for our personal and business energy supplies as much as possible and we are planning to continue working with Renewable Resources”.
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renewable energy to meet our electricity demands”. Rising electricity bills became a significant concern in the past few years, emphasizing the company’s need for alternative power sources. The main requirement for the wholesaler’s products is freshness and therefore its large refrigerated warehouse operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year, contributing to the high energy costs. To reduce these costs, Ivan Wood and Sons decided to explore alternative energy sources. Investing in Renewables While looking into renewable energy options, the Wood brothers explored wind turbine and solar PV roof-mounted panels. Due to benefits in terms of engineering restrictions and maintenance requirements, the two brothers decided in favour of the latter. “The wind turbine has to be 102 metres from the nearest building and we had only 99 metres”, commented Malcolm Wood, Director, Ivan Wood and Sons. “I am so glad we were not able to implement the wind turbine, though. The turbine stands out too much and requires constant maintenance. The only maintenance we do for our solar panels is annual cleaning”. The Wood brothers turned to Renewable Resources for expert advice. With a fully trained inhouse team of surveyors, consultants, design engineers, installation and commissioning staff, Renewable Resources offered Ivan Wood and Sons a turnkey solution specifically tailored to suit the farm’s needs. During the first testing stage, Renewable Resources installed solar panels on the roof of their family house. The 3.8 kW system was completed within just two days, followed by the larger installation of 175 panels on the refrigerated warehouse. The company’s energy bills more than halved almost immediately. The solar panels generated 35 kW in 2011, or 60% of the company’s daytime energy consumption. The system output was originally estimated by Renewable Resources at the level of 31.5 KW per annum, which means that it is actually overproducing according to original estimates, adding to the return on investment. Monthly warehouse electricity bills were reduced by 85 per cent, from £1,500 to around £200, saving £10,000 to £15,000 a year and eliminating significant exposure to fluctuating energy bills. Ivan Wood and Sons receives additional benefits from the UK Feed-in-Tariff payback scheme that is set at the rate of 43.3 pence per kW for home installations and 32.9p per kW for commercial applications. “We are extremely pleased with
“Renewable Resources offers full installation services from survey to aftersales support without using subcontractors,” said Paul Gribben, Chief Executive, Renewable Resources.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 15
| Security
Smile..you’re on CCTV Some thoughts on what to consider when installing CCTV on your farm. ore and more CCTV systems are springing up on farms as rural theft is on the increase. It is worth noting that CCTV systems not only help catch the intruders on video, but cameras that are visible can act as a deterrent. A few things to consider when buying and installing a CCTV system: • Set out your objectives on what you want your cameras to protect, i.e.: diesel tanks, entrances to yards and barns, roller shutters, farm machinery, to record uninvited vehicles etc. • Consider what budget you have. Systems can be upgraded at a later date and you may want to start with 4 cameras, to cover the most vulnerable areas. Choose an 8 or 16 channel DVR recorder, so more cameras can be added at a later date. • Choose cameras that have a varifocal lens with day/night vision. The camera range is manually adjustable for short or long range views. • For a good quality image, look at the camera’s specifications for the
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resolution; choose a minimum of 540 TVL. The higher the TVL number, the better the resolution of the image. • From dusk, the cameras switch to night vision and the colours will be seen in monochrome. A high number of infra-red LED’s gives a better night vision. You may want to consider sodium flood lights, these will show images in colour at night. • Some cameras are designed to capture number plates, however, they can be quite expensive. Standard cameras will “white out” numbers plates at night due to the IR LEDS being bright. • Cabling cameras on farms can be expensive due to the length of cable needed. It is worth considering wireless systems. Line of sight between transmitter and receiver has to be good. You need a transmitter/receiver set per camera. It is worth asking about the difference in cost between wireless and hard wired camera installations. • Do not position cameras too high, you will lose distance, but again, not too low where they can
be vandalised. • Secure the DVR recorder in a locked ventilated cabinet, hidden out of sight. • The DVR recorder should have a 500GB hard drive suitable for recording for 28 days. • All DVR recorders currently have smart phone and remote access from a PC. These features are very
useful to check your property whilst you are off site. We have installed many CCTV systems on farms with all the features mentioned above for as little as £2000. We will be happy to carry out a survey free of charge, call 4Sightcctv on 0844 248 107 to book an appointment.
Up tto o £70m of far farm m machiner machineryy is stolen st every year!
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16 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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| Security
Digital security solutions Curb rural crime More cost effective wireless alternatives to traditional cabled CCTV systems.
Affordable and complete packages from the security experts at Agri-cctv Ltd.
ocated in central Hampshire, IDS Solutions Ltd specialise in providing bespoke and innovative digital security solutions for farms, and agricultural sites, providing a wide range of effective solutions to protect rural environments. Our product range covers everything from a small standalone workshop alarm to our flagship AgriWatch digital farm security system. Our systems can be tailored to your individual requirements and
gri-cctv Ltd operates nationwide providing professional yet affordable rural and agricultural security solutions. Over the last two years we have seen an increase in farm installations of cctv equipment due to ever increasing rural crime such as fuel theft . With over 200 farm installations and counting we believe we know and understand what is required to ensure the correct equipment and cost is achieved in delivering your project. Agri-cctv Ltd have and continually work with machinery rings and cattle markets to provide knowledge and the understanding of cctv equipment and its limitations within a farming environment. We offer affordable complete turnkey packages at a set cost. All our packages include everything from full installation, networking and warranty. Complete farm security packages from ÂŁ1,900 Ex VAT including: main entrance No plate camera, full external 360 Deg dome camera, 2 x fixed lens
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are designed to grow if required. They are low-cost, reliable and robust, offering many smart features, such as video motion detection, which allows you to track and record unwelcome yard activity remotely. We deliver clear views of your yard to your home PC. Cameras can be set to sound an alarm or switch on security lighting to deter intruders. Automatic email or text notifications can be sent to your phone or PC alerting you to yard activity. Our solutions utilise the Internet and mobile phone networks and by taking advantage of wireless technology cabling requirements are minimised leading to significant cost savings in comparison to traditional solutions, such as Analogue CCTV. We offer an agile and flexible approach; providing a full design and installation service. Alternatively, all of our solutions and products are available in preassembled kit form for DIY installation. Contact IDS on 01962 732044 or visit www.ids-solutions.co.uk
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cameras for key areas complete with night vision from 50-100m 19� flat screen monitor 1Tb hard drive, remote networking for smart phones computers laptops fully installed with 1 years warranty. For more information visit www.agri-cctvltd.co.uk or call James on : 07970882984
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 17
| Buildings
Animal housing ventilation Good design should not be ignored when it comes to the health and well-being of your stock. oncern has been expressed about the extent to which farmers understand the importance and value of providing adequate and appropriate ventilation in livestock buildings. It was mooted to more than 50 members of the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA), most of whom are agricultural building contractors, by Jim Loynes, former ADAS buildings design specialist and now assistant head of engineering at Harper Adams University College. Mr Loynes, BSc (Hons), CEng, MIAgrE, was talking about the natural ventilation of livestock housing to RIDBA’s quarterly council meeting, held at Patshull Park Hotel, Golf and Country Club in Pattingham, in the college’s home county of Shropshire. In his presentation Mr Loynes said that a “general purpose” building was invariably what a farmer felt he could afford and paid for, when what he really required could only be provided by good design. He said the design of appropriate natural ventilation openings needed to start by calculating the outlet area at the ridge of a building (the gap required to allow stale air out) and then consider how this area can
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be replicated at the inlet (openings below eaves to allow fresh air in). The size of the inlet gaps or open ridge needed to be based on the building’s dimensions and expected stocking densities, with a main concern being that rain could enter the building through an open ridge. However, this had been solved with the development of a protected open ridge. “The open ridge and protected open ridge have both been available for some time now. However, either farmers don’t know about the benefits of good ventilation or don’t want to pay for an open ridge or protected open ridge to be installed. Or is it a question of ease of installation?” he asked the RIDBA members. In his opinion, alternatives to the open and protected open ridges, such as “crown-cranked” or “twopiece” ridges, did not provide adequate outlet area for most livestock housing densities, even though sufficient inlet area could be formed using spaced (often referred to as Yorkshire) boarding. Suppliers such as RIDBA members needed to know exactly where the building will be positioned, particularly in relation to other buildings and potential wind breaks, as well as how the farmer intended to use the building and what animals he intended to house in it (in terms of numbers,
breed, housing period, feeding, bedding, slurry system and so on). An additional consideration now-adays and perhaps more importantly, will be which QA scheme (such as the ‘Red Tractor’) the farmer aimed to satisfy as this may influence the building layout and design in a way that could affect the ventilation of the building. “Unless you know exactly this, in my opinion there is no way you can provide a building with adequate natural ventilation openings in it,” said Mr Loynes. “Furthermore, when considering stock housing, a general purpose building, which may be a relatively cheap solution for the purchaser as it can be adapted to meet his immediate needs and may be flexible in use, but, if he does not consider all the factors involved it will, most likely, not satisfy the needs of any stock housed in it.
Therefore, when considering ventilation openings, over-design may be a better solution at the start as it is easier to ‘close-up’ a building than to open it up to ventilation at a later date.” A well-designed ventilation system (natural or mechanical) helps to remove dust, excess moisture and bacteria from a livestock building while providing a minimum air flow rate and a draught-free lying area for stock. He referred to RIDBA’s Farm Buildings Handbook which includes an updated version of the SFBIU’s design guide which caters for larger livestock, and is available to farmers through www.ridba.org.uk. Farmers requiring more advice about ventilating their livestock buildings can contact Mr Loynes on jloynes@harper-adams.ac.uk or RIDBA on secretary@ridba.org.uk.
Cemsix provides cover for new dairy farm Cembrit’s corrugated sheeting proves to be the ideal solution. new large dairy complex just east of the small town of Nairn, Scotland, is providing the perfect showcase for Cembrit’s Cemsix corrugated sheeting. The farm is located on the Moray Firth in the north of Scotland so the farm needed a roof that was able to withstand the often demanding weather conditions. With its durable and robust qualities Cemsix was the perfect solution and its discreet, grey colour perfectly complements the natural surroundings of the farm. Nairn is an attractive seaside town 16 miles from Inverness, on the coast of Moray Firth. Recent expansion at the farm generated a requirement for six new buildings to house a 700 head dairy herd, calf housing, extra machinery and equipment for the dairy milking process. Local company Brian Hewitt Construction BHC Ltd, one
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of the leading structural fabricators in Scotland and beyond, was tasked with the large scale project, and chose Cemsix as the roofing for each building. “We knew we would need a strong, hard-wearing roofing material so as to withstand the harsh coastal weather,” explains Bryan Cathcart, General Manager at BHC. “We have worked with Cembrit before so were confident of the weatherproof qualities of Cemsix and we were also able to benefit from Cembrit’s excellent after-sales service during the project.” Cemsix is a suitable roofing material for agricultural buildings for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is slightly porous which means high levels of water or humidity within agricultural buildings can be absorbed by the sheets and gradually released into the atmosphere, rather than
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condensing on the under side of the roof and dropping into the building. Also, it is not affected by destructive fungi, vermin or insects, ensuring it will not rot or rust. Furthermore, no maintenance is required to preserve the strength of the sheets. Cemsix is available in natural grey, matt black and ten attractive pre-coloured options in a standard imperial 6 inch profile. It is strengthened with strategically placed polypropylene reinforcement strips which are
incorporated within the fibrecement sheet to comply with BS and H&S requirements for site safety and fragility. Cemsix also conforms to the necessary fire safety requirements being a Class 0 surfaced material with an EXT.S.AA rating. The range also offers a wide range of corrugated sheet accessories including ventilation to satisfy any roof design. Cemsix has full BBA certification: 03/4049 and a warranty is available on request.
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| Buildings
Designed for longevity
Pyramid Monovent
Livestock farmers opt for low maintenance and long life.
Care, comfort and cleanliness for faster weaner growth and maximum returns.
attle, sheep, pigs, horses – whichever livestock you have on your farm, Shufflebottom has a tailor-made solution. Latest buildings include an airy shelter for cattle, with a vented-ridge gapped roof, supplied to Lee Witchell Agricultural Services for Hendon Manor Farm, Idehill in Kent, and a unit for British Quality Pigs on Stephen Cowper’s Leys Farm, Wimpstone, in Warwickshire. The pig unit has galvanised steelwork and the fibre-cement-clad roof has open protected ridges. The 12 Shufflebottom buildings for dairy farmers John Pollock & Sons in Bonnybridge, Stirlingshire, Scotland, include a clear-span cattle court 135 feet by 98 feet, and a milking parlour 120 feet by 60 feet. Galvanised steelwork, and the Shufflebottom galvanised eaves beam gutter system, are features of a livestock building 135 feet by 45 feet, on Lord James Prior’s Brampton Farms, Beccles, Suffolk. This is the third Shufflebottom on Brampton Farms. Galvanised frames, and the galvanised eaves beam gutter system, are popular
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choices in 2012, as farmers seek to minimise future maintenance costs.
Shufflebottom buildings, made in Wales, are designed for durability, longevity and low maintenance, with details to suit each farm’s requirements. This year the company was the UK’s first specialist manufacturer of steel-framed buildings for agriculture to receive the CE Mark, signifying conformity with all relevant European Union regulations, and also received a Gold Award from RoSPA, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, for occupational health and safety. Quality standards attained include ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001.
he Pyramid Monovent is naturally ventilated monopitch building designed for farrowing through to finishing. The focus of our buildings is to provide: • Lower production costs with modern housing • Low maintenance with high quality building products • Faster growth – pigs grow fast and lean with top performance achieved when an ideal environment satisfies their natural desire to grow quickly with low food consumption. The Pyramid Monovent offers these benefits by providing warm, well ventilated rooms, offering care, comfort and cleanliness to encourage fast, cost effective growth and reduce the cost of live weight gain. Weaners that grow faster continue to do so right through to slaughter and these growth rates lower capital investment in buildings and stock. In an ideal environment less food is wasted in maintaining warmth: faster to slaughter means less food and therefore increasing
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net profit. A vital part of future success is healthier pigs. With demand for All-in, All-out stocking rooms matched to group sizes the Pyramid Monovent provides this and allows quick easy cleaning. A clean environment means less chance of cross infection resulting in healthier pigs, lower mortality rates and reduced vets bills. For more information telephone: 01751 477918
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 19
| Buildings
Increase cow comfort and health Invest in the right solution. aving adequate ventilation in your building should be a top priority to make sure your herd benefits from the optimum environment to improve health and wellbeing. It is important to maintain circulation of fresh, clean air in your buildings, minimising the risk of disease and heat stress for your cows. A Galebreaker Ventilation Solution can provide this ideal environment, allowing fresh air into the building using one of our side wall solutions, and providing sufficient exhaust for stale air through the Galebreaker Light Ridge. A Combination of side wall system and light ridge will provide you with a healthy and light environment for you and your cows. Galebreaker side systems start with the simple clip on Bayscreen to take the place of traditional cladding materials and work up to the Variable Ventilation System (VVS), which can span the entire length of a building and be
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Made-to-measure piggery panels Using only machine in UK.
opened and closed as the weather conditions dictate. For complete peace of mind, the VVS can be fully automated using a weather station so that, no matter where you are or what time it is, you know that your livestock are in the best environment possible. The Galebreaker Light Ridge adds the finishing touch to the Total Ventilation Solution, providing a covered air outlet to remove the stale air from your building. Designed to be an “active system”, the light ridge uses its wind walls to help draw air out of the building, maintaining the flow of fresh air through the building. The roof panels of the light ridge are made from toughened PVC that allows high levels of light into the building the ridge can be fitted to new or existing buildings and come in widths of 1m, 2m and 3m. For full details of your ventilation solution options, please contact Galebreaker on 01531 637900 or your local representative.
20 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
uffolk equipment manufacturer, Quality Equipment, has invested in a specialised plastic welding machine to enable the company to supply pig farmers with Paneltim plastic panels in nonstandard sizes. These panels, manufactured in Belgium, are widely used within the pig industry for pen divisions and gates because they are strong, hygienic and quick to install compared with traditional block walls. However, many farmers require different sizes from the standard 2.6m x 1m. Previously, this has involved either cutting existing panels, inevitably resulting in waste, or sourcing non-standard sizes from Belgium, with a delivery time of or around four weeks. “The new welding machine — the only one of its kind in the UK — will enable us to supply made-to-measure panels at very
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short notice and this will also reduce waste keeping costs down,” said Quality Equipment director, Graham Baker. Welded panels are as strong as the originals, with only a fine line indicating the join. Another advantage is that the ends are sealed. Such is the popularity of this product, Graham Baker says that around 80 per cent of the gates and partitions supplied by the company are now of Paneltim. For further information visit www.quality-equipment.co.uk
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| Buildings
SMP build solid reputation Cow health a highlight with see-through wall Unique pre-cast concrete products prove a hit. fter a very successful show at this year’s Livestock and Dairy Event at the NEC in Birmingham on the 3rd & 4th September, SMP Concrete Products Ltd continue to gain ground in the agricultural housing sector with their unique range of pre-cast concrete products for both beef and dairy farmers. Established in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone in 2001, SMP Concrete Products entered the agricultural precast market with a revolutionary portable cubicle system which has been developed over the last 12 years to gain it prominence in today’s agri market place. SMP have developed a unique cubicle bed whereby the entire cubicle steelwork, either for the portable cubicle or adjustable cubicle system can be easily installed and removed from the concrete bed with minimal effort which now holds UK, Irish and European patents. Over the past number of years the product range has increased to include cattle slats, pre-stressed wall panels, cattle drinkers, slurry channels, feed troughs and the
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recent development of the concrete ‘ feed block ‘ system.
Cheaper to adapt older buildings than build new. ivestock producers could improve animal health and slash electricity costs by installing an innovative seethrough wall on cattle buildings. While many farmers have traditionally relied on spaced timber boarding to clad shed walls, it often provides insufficient ventilation, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases. However, a few simple changes can make a massive difference even to older buildings, as Devon dairy farmer Andrew Luscombe discovered. “The existing cubicle house at Wolford Farm, Dunkeswell, had a low roof with tin sides, and cubicles that were too small for modern dairy cows,” he said. So he removed the tin to allow for larger cubicles, and replaced it with a unique see-through ventilated wall called Highlight. Installed along the length of the shed, the colour coated metal wall is 25% voided with tiny holes, allowing plenty of light and air in, without the wind or rain. Mr Luscombe also opened up the roof ridge to draw air through the
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The ‘feed block’ was designed to easily create a feed trough where an existing feed barrier is in place with minimal labour, cost and disruption. The ‘feed block’ is simply placed at the required distance to suit stock size and feed capacity, from and existing feed rail or barrier. One block is usually placed in line with the supporting posts for the feed rail or barrier and timber is slotted into the block to form a trough. Each ‘feed block’ has a threaded socket cast into the top to allow a lifting ring to be screwed in for ease of fitting or removal. For further information on our products please visit our website www.smpconcrete.co.uk
building, and replaced the cubicle beds and mattresses. “It’s worked brilliantly well – we get a lot of foggy days up here in the hills, and even then the shed stays nice and dry. The cows definitely prefer lying on the side where the light and air is coming in, and our electricity bills should benefit as well,” he added. “It just proves that there is still life in these old sheds – and it has to be cheaper to adapt them than to build something new.” www.unitedroofingproducts.com
or call 01884 839302.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 21
| Buildings
Secure windbreaks Versatile solution for optimum animal health. ctive airflow by natural ventilation is essential for maintaining animal health and is vital in the successful rearing of young stock. Natural ventilation allows clean fresh air to
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flow into a building whilst warm, humid air rises up and out of the housing carrying with it waste gases like carbon dioxide , ammonia and methane. This positive airflow also effectively removes airborne pathogens, dust and mould spores. If your barn has a problem with insufficient airflow then use Secure Windbreaks to replace solid side panels or if cold draughts are a
problem Secure Windbreaks can be fitted above exposed doors or feed runs. The windbreaks are made in a range of sizes from the same tough knitted material as our Secure Covers and can be fitted rapidly and held in place with a simple hook & ratchet system. In no time at all Secure Windbreaks convert a draughty open shed to a comfortable, airy livestock shelter. At Upper Criggie near Stonehaven (only 3 miles from the sea and at 450ft elevation), Scott and Bruce Begg wanted a system to improve the comfort of their housed beef herd during the harsh wet winters. Scott Begg reported that, ‘Secure Windbreaks have done a great job. The building is now sheltered but airy and the rain no longer blows in so we’ve saved on bedding.’ Secure Windbreaks are also used in workshops, straw & hay stores or equestrian buildings. For more information or to find out what other farmers say about Secure Windbreaks contact:Thomas & Fontaine Ltd. Tel:- 0800 7832804 or visit www.securecovers.com
22 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
Tunnel vision still top McGregor Polytunnels: The best way to house your sheep. heep farmers have been using polytunnels as an affordable system of housing sheep for the last 34 years. Revolutionary, when originally conceived by Ewan McGregor of McGregor Polytunnels it has, over the years, become increasingly recognised that the environmental benefits the polytunnel sheep house provides, make it a candidate for the best system for housing sheep. Sheep are outdoor animals and do not normally take naturally to being housed. The polytunnel has over come this with it’s excellent ventilation characteristics. Ventilating through stock netting at ground level and therefore through the flock and not over their heads and with the gull grey semitransparent polythene roof cover the polytunnel provides a light and airy environment perfectly suited to sheep. One of the main advantages says Ewan McGregor is that the 33% heat/light reflective roof cover is that transparent to UV light. These factors make a major
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contribution to the sterilisation and maintenance of a dry bedding in which little straw is used. Typical characteristics of the polytunnel sheep house. Says Mr Clive Hawes of Grange Farm Bicester “ My large flock of pedigree Charollais do exceptionally well in my two McGregor Cheviot 9000 polytunnels. The in-wintered ewes love it and consequently milk well, producing for me a very even and level crops of lambs. I left the polytunnels open to my December born ram lambs, through-out the summer. They did so well I have already sold them all!” Simple and quick to install and built to last from a galvanised steel frame, the sheep polytunnel, now found all over the world, remains remarkably unchanged since its inception 34 years ago. To find out more about McGregor Polytunnels visit www.mcgregorpolytunnels.co.uk or call 01962 772368
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| LAMMA
LAMMA Show offers an unbeatable range of products and services for visitors One of the favourite exhibition events for professionals in the agricultural arena boasts over 750 stands for 2013. he ever-increasing popularity of the LAMMA Show amongst the farming community nationwide, has in the past few years led to a tremendous increase in both visitor and exhibitor numbers. For LAMMA 2013 over 750 exhibitors have booked stand space for the event which will take place on 16th & 17th January 2013, at the Newark Showground, on the Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire border. From the outset the primary aim of the LAMMA Show was to offer a low-cost shop window for small manufacturers to display their products. More than 30 years later, this is still the case and the success of this policy is evident from the large number of small companies, from all parts of the country, taking part. Combine this fact with the presence of all the major players in the farm machinery, equipment and services sectors, and it becomes evident why so many farming
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decision-makers, from all parts of the UK and from further afield, view the LAMMA Show as an important date for their diaries. Its growing reputation and popularity has meant that, over recent years, the character of the Show has evolved from being predominantly focused on arable machinery, parts and workshop equipment, to one which now includes a wide range of horticultural, amenity and livestock equipment, as well as ‘green energy’ products, seed suppliers, agro-chemical, farm management and financial advisory services. In addition, a number of companies specialising in re-cycling and construction equipment will be an attraction to both re-cycling and construction professionals, as well as farmers seeking ideas for diversification projects. As far as visitors are concerned, the growing diversity of exhibits has attracted visitors from all regions of the UK and a number of trade representatives from across
Europe and as far afield as India, China and Australia are expected to visit the Show. With traffic management playing a very important role in speeding up access to the Show for visitors and minimising delays to local and through traffic not attending the Show, extensive consultations with the Highways Agency, Police, District and County Councils and the Showground owners have resulted in the development of a comprehensive traffic management plan and visitors are requested to follow the local Event signage in order to minimise delays. The ever increasing popularity of the LAMMA Show indicates that it is now placed high on the list of favourite exhibition events for professionals in the agricultural and associated industries. We look forward to welcoming our regular visitors and, of course, we extend an especially cordial invitation to those who have yet to enjoy the LAMMA experience. As an added
incentive to ‘early-birds’ making for the Show, the car parks will open at 6.00am and visitors arriving between 6.30 and 8.00am will be able to enjoy a full English breakfast at a discounted price. Additionally, the Show will this year officially open at 7.30am on both days. As in previous years, both admission to the Show and car parking are free of charge.
Sowing Success…
www.vaderstad.com
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November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 23
| LAMMA
Latest ARION makes LAMMA debut Centre stage on the CLAAS stand at the LAMMA Show in January will be the new CLAAS ARION tractor, which will be on national display for the first time. nder the bonnet the new ARION range features the latest engine technology in order to fully comply with the TIER 4i emissions regulations whilst also offering enhanced performance. However, of particular benefit to operators will be the new ARION cab, which incorporates many features first introduced last autumn on the high horsepower AXION 900 range and will set a new standard for this size of tractor. The new ARION range comprises seven models, which are available in either CIS (CLAAS Information System) or CEBIS versions, with maximum power outputs ranging from 145hp for the new ARION 530 up to 184hp for the ARION 650. The ARION is powered by the latest DPS Powertech PVX engines which use DOC and DPF emissions treatment technology to meet TIER 4i standards. The engines feature 4-valve technology, a variable geometry turbocharger, intercooling and a new common rail injection system that operates at a higher pressure of 2000 bar, compared to 1320 bar previously. The ARION also features the new VISCTRONIC electronic fan control system first introduced on the AXION 900. This provides precise control of the cooling fan, ensuring that noise level and power requirement is kept as low as possible, so helping reduce power requirement. With its combination of a short
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wheelbase and low operating weight, the 4-cylinder ARION 500 has proven to be an exceptionally versatile tractor, and especially ideal for use with a front-end loader. Thanks to the latest technology used on the 4-cylinder, 4.5 litre engine fitted to these models, the most powerful model in this range now has a maximum power output of 163hp, making this one of the most powerful 4cylinder tractors on the market. The larger ARION 600 range has proven to be extremely versatile, being light enough for top work, yet powerful enough for heavy cultivations when weighted up properly. The new ARION 600 is no exception with maximum power outputs from the new 6cylinder 6.8 litre engine ranging from 158hp up to 184hp on the ARION 650. All the new ARION models retain the well proven and reliable CLAAS HEXASHIFT transmission which DLG tests have shown offers extremely high levels of power transfer to the driving wheels and PTO, resulting in increased output and a corresponding reduction in fuel consumption. One of the most striking features of the new generation ARION 600/500 range is the cab, which sets a new standard for this size of tractor on account of its space and comfort. The new cab is an adapted version of that used on the new AXION 900, which was named ‘Machine of the Year’ at last year’s Agritechnica Show.
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The cab is positioned slightly further forwards and to provide greater all-round visibility has only five pillars, compared to six on the previous ARION range. The cab features a curved rear window which has allowed the two rear ‘B’ pillars to be moved forward, so providing the operator with greater rearward visibility over wide implements whilst on the offside there is a single piece door providing superb visibility. The cab on the new ARION is also fitted with the unique fourpoint adjustable cab suspension system, which is still recognised as being one of the best cab suspension systems on the market. Internally, the ARION features a new slimline dashboard that is mounted on the adjustable steering column, which can be fully folded up out of the way, allowing for easy entry and exit from the cab, and precise adjustment for ease of use. The operator also now has the choice of five different seat options from either Grammer or Sears. As previously, the new ARION 600/500 is available in either CEBIS or CIS (CLAAS Information System) variants. On CEBIS models, the screen has now been incorporated into the armrest which also follows the design of that introduced on the AXION 900. All the main transmission, linkage, hydraulic and GPS steering functions are controlled using the new CMOTION multifunction control lever, which fits comfortably into the right hand and can be operated using just three fingers. The armrest console can also incorporate an
ELECTROPILOT joystick control for the hydraulic functions. In common with all other CLAAS tractors, the new generation ARION features a long overall wheelbase, but within compact overall dimensions, with an almost equal weight distribution between the front and rear axle providing excellent comfort, stability and traction. Aside for ensuring optimum traction for greater output and reduced fuel consumption, this provides the ARION with the versatility of being light enough for top work such as fertiliser spreading, but when weighted up to have the traction to utilise the power and torque for heavy cultivations. Three-point linkage capacity has also been increased with the ARION 640 and 650 both having 8.0 tonne capacity rear linkages, whilst the smaller ARION 530 and 630 have 6.9 tonnes capacity linkages. Factory fitted front linkage systems and front loaders are also available, carried on a half-frame mounted between the front-axle carrier and the transmission. All new ARION models are fitted with a 110 litre/minute loadsensing hydraulic system and the standard specification also includes PROACTIV independent front axle suspension, and there is also now front axle braking on 50kph models.
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RDS presents WEIGHLOG α10 on-board weighing system at LAMMA 2013 | LAMMA
LAMMA 2013 will see RDS Technology Ltd exhibiting its extensive range of on-board weighing scales including the WEIGHLOG α10, which has been specifically designed for agricultural loaders. he WEIGHLOG α10 incorporates a 4.3” colour, hi brightness resistive touchscreen display and additional physical keys providing a userfriendly on-board weighing system that can be used for trailer & hopper loading, batch blending or check weighing. Suitable for use with up to 10 different attachments e.g. buckets or forks, the system can be retrofitted onto compact wheeled loaders, telescopic handlers, forklifts, skidsteer type loaders and tractor loaders. The system measures hydraulic pressure using up to 4 sensors at a certain position on the lifting cycle compensating for pressure changes in the system. Enhanced stores capability comprising 30 products, 30 customers and up to 5 different recipes designed around animal
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feed mixing, dispensing and grain handling enable accurate record keeping and traceability. The system provides communication and data storage via SD card reader and USB 2.0 host allowing quick, safe and efficient uploading and downloading of data. Also on show will be the Combine Moisture Meter 100. Using the same moisture sensor technology as the renowned RDS Ceres yield monitor, the Combine Moisture Meter 100 eliminates the need to make regular stops during harvesting to test grain moisture content and helps to quickly identify if conditions are, or are becoming, unsuitable for combining. Monitoring the moisture content of the crop helps to indicate its ripeness, enabling more timely harvesting decisions to be made in
the field. Knowing the grain moisture content also allows it to be stored in the optimum location according to drying or cooling requirements. LAMMA 2013 will also see RDS Technology Ltd exhibiting its wide range of monitoring and measuring instruments for farming applications including the Artemis variable rate seed drill control system, the Ceres 8000i yield monitor system for combines, and
the Delta 34i and Spraymaster 200 sprayer regulation and control systems. For more information on how RDS can help improve your farming operations - visit us at Lamma, go to www.rdstec.com or call 01453 733300.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 25
| Energy
P & D Engineering Fleet Lane, Bredon, Tewkesbury, Gloucester Gloucestershire, GL20 7EF Tel: 01684 772912
Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon, Leicester LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191 Fax: 01530 249199
Day & Coles (Agricultural) Limited Park Farm Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Tel: 01933 673900 Fax: 01933 675858
E.A. Clayton Limited Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton On Tees, Cleveland TS21 1EB Tel: 01740 630254 Fax: 01740 631097
Hayward United Farmers Limited Heliport Site, Ellough, Beccles, Suffolk NR24 7XD Tel: 01502 475111
Keith Davies Agricultural Hem Manor Farm, Hem Lane, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840
26 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
Romsey Agricultural Machinery Limited Shorts Farm,Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6DX Tel: 01794 323159
Craggs of Conder Green Thurnham Mill Buildings Conder Green, Lancaster Lancashire LA2 0BD Tel: 01524 751405
TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310
Cranworth Farm Services High Common, Cranworth, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 7SX Tel: 01362 820391
Yorkshire Handlers Limited Unit 4-5, Fryors Close, Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel: 01904 489988
Andrew Curtis Tractors Limited Pensford, Nr Bristol BS39 4DB Tel: 01761 490372 Fax: 01761 490004
Fax: 01362 820077
Fax: 01904 489061
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| LAMMA
BDC Systems teams up with T.H.White Companies supply new, modern grain storage at large organic farm. DC Systems has played a major role in the upgrading of the grain store at the Wookey family farm at Rushall in Wiltshire. Working for main design and build contractor T H White Installation Ltd, BDC Systems has supplied Akron hoppers, ventilation and Skandia handling equipment in the major modernisation of the farm's plant. Nigel Wookey has around 2,500 acres devoted to the organic production of wheat, barley, oats, triticale, rye and spelt. The farm's grain store comprised of 16 concrete block silos some 60 years old and these had not only shown signs of their age, but also provided insufficient storage capacity. Taking the decision to upgrade the facility, Nigel Wookey once again turned to the expertise of contractor T H White to design and install the new storage facility. The existing dryer and cleaner have been incorporated into the new layout, and the storage hoppers all feature temperature monitoring and automatic low volume ventilation. Much of this plant has been supplied by BDC Systems with whom T H White has a close working relationship. David Huband, Project Engineer at T H White commented:� We worked with BDC Systems from the outset of this project and have appreciated the technical support they have provided throughout. They have a wide range of products and a good knowledge of them. BDC Systems is UK distributor for the
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renowned Akron/Svegma brands. The company supplied 25 three x three metre and 26 four x three metre Akron hoppers, and 3 four by three metre Svegma hoppers as pre-drying silos. Together these provided a storage capacity of nearly 2000 tonnes. Intake to the pre-drying silos and the drier is at up to 60 tph capacity and the storage hoppers are filled and discharged at up to 40tph. All new chain and flight conveyors installed were manufactured by Skandia. During the design of the new storage facility the requirement to establish a safe means of constructing the hoppers was addressed. As a result of the discussions between T H White and BDC Systems a new design of hopper cone was developed by Akron. Rather than being pre-welded they are manufactured from galvanised steel. They are supplied in panel sections to facilitate fast and easy installation on-site. Posts and panels are erected first and the hopper cone is bolted on afterwards. This enables safe working access to both sides of the wall panels with scissor lifts. Work began on the project in autumn 2011 in order to have the new store ready for the 2012 harvest. This aim has been achieved and Nigel Wookey also now has the capability and capacity to offer grain storage facilities to neighbouring organic growers, some of whom are farming too small an acreage to justify their own stores. Nigel Wookey reports that he has been
pleased with the project and both the expertise and support of T H White and BDC Systems. With his son now also joining in the running of the farm, five generations of the family have now been involved in this highly successful enterprise which now has a first class storage facility that will meet their requirements for the foreseeable future. More information is available at www.bdcsystems.com and from BDC Systems Ltd, Prospect Farm, Broad Road, Monxton, Andover, Hampshire, SP1 1 7DA. Tel: +44 (0) 1264 710987, Fax: +44 (0) 1264 710987, email: info@bdcsystems.com
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 27
| LAMMA
New Holland’s new FR range The benchmark in chop quality and productivity. he launch of the new FR range of forage harvesters sees New Holland accomplish the complete renewal of its line-up of professional harvesting products. The five model FR range delivers between 450-824hp and offers industryleading chop quality and consistency, which, when combined with the range’s unsurpassed throughput, provides the most efficient and productive package on the market. Innovative new features such as productivity enhancing ECOBlue™ SCR technology, the ultra-wide IntelliView™ IV colour touchscreen monitor, and a new high performance grass pick-up header have been combined with renowned FR features including the VariFlow™ and HydroLoc™ systems in a strikingly distinctive New Holland styling package, to offer
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professional contractors and large cooperatives unsurpassed quality and throughput. “The latest
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generation of FRs represents the pinnacle of forage harvesting technology, and is the culmination of over 50 years of pioneering forager firsts.” Stated Hedley Cooper, Head of Harvester Product
Management. “In 1961, New Holland revolutionised the world of forage harvesting with the Model SP818. Today, over half a century later, yellow blooded engineers are hard at work at our Harvesting Centre of Excellence, in Zedelgem, and the home of the FR, to provide today’s high output contractors and cooperatives with the productivity, efficiency and reliability they require.”
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| Energy
AGRATECH NW LTD Unit 8 Dale Mill, Burnley Road East, Lancashire BB4 9HU Tel: 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk LW VASS (AGRICULTURAL) LTD Springfield Farm, Bedfordshire, MK45 2AX Tel: 01525 403041 www.vassgro.co.uk CENTRAL CROPSPRAYERS LTD Unit B, Sandford Ind. Park, Shropshire SY13 2AN Tel: 01948 840187 Mob. 07850 744335 AGRITRAC (WILLITON) LTD Unit 5, Roughmoor Ind. Est, Roughmoor, Somerset TA4 4RF Tel: 01984 633005 www.cropsprayerparts.com FLOWGRO LTD Barton Turns Farm, Barton under Needwood, Burton on Trent, Staffs DE13 8ED Tel: 01283 712172 www.flowgro.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 29
| Energy
Farmstar Limited - Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786 Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk Sharnford Ltd -Monthly Lutterworth, Leicestershire 30Tractors | Farming | November 2012 LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk
Anker of Coates - Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777 Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk Ravenhill - Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| LAMMA
New 6M Series tractors from John Deere Available from December 2012. *Existing models remain in range for 2013
ohn Deere’s versatile 6M Series tractors provide more power, functionality and operator comfort than their 6030 Series predecessors, offering new levels of efficiency and performance from a standard tractor range. The newly styled 6M Series (see table) includes tractors from 115hp to a new top of the range 170hp (EC 97/68), and a 140hp model featuring the highest power level yet from a John Deere fourcylinder tractor. The existing 6130, 6230 and 6330 Standard Cab models from 85 to 105hp will remain in the range for 2013. John Deere 6M Series tractors feature a full-frame design, three wheelbase sizes, optional Triple Link Suspension (TLS) and an optional front axle brake to deliver maximum braking power with minimal pedal force. The 6115M, 6125M, 6130M and 6140M models are equipped with Stage IIIB compliant 4.5-litre four-cylinder PowerTech PVX engines, while the larger 6150M and 6170M are powered by Stage IIIB 6.8-litre six-cylinder PowerTech PVX engines – the
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same as the premium 6R Series tractors. All models feature a rated engine speed of 2100rpm (reduced from 2200rpm), a new cooling system and an increased fuel tank capacity of up to 405 litres. Using field proven technologies to meet the latest emissions standards, these fuel-efficient diesel-only engines feature exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an exhaust filter. This last component includes a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The enhanced cab offers numerous improvements, including a newly designed dashboard with an integrated onboard display to facilitate machine settings. The display can also be used as a performance monitor. The proven PowrQuad and AutoQuad Plus 40kph transmissions allow
Previous 6030 Series Standard Model
New 6M Series Model
6130 (85hp 4cyl)* 6230 (95hp 4cyl)* 6330 (105hp 4cyl)*
6115M 4cyl Small-Frame
6430 (120hp 4cyl)
6125M 4cyl Small-Frame
6534 (125hp 4cyl)
6130M 4cyl Mid-Frame
6630 (135hp 6cyl)
6140M 4cyl Mid-Frame
6830 (145hp 6cyl)
6150M 6cyl Mid-Frame
6930 (155hp 6cyl)
6170M 6cyl Large-Frame
smooth gear changes on the move, assisted by a standard declutch button. Thanks to the newly available EcoShift mode, engine rpm is automatically reduced when reaching high speeds, thus improving the tractor’s fuel efficiency and further reducing noise levels. More power, faster response times, increased operator comfort and enhanced efficiency are provided by the 6M Series’ improved hydraulic system. Fourcylinder models feature an 80 litre/min pressure compensated system, with the option to fit a 114 litre/min pressure and flow compensated version, which is fitted as standard to sixcylinder models.
Other options designed to provide additional versatility and performance include larger tyre sizes of up to 2m diameter, an exfactory front hitch and pto, and a choice of John Deere front loaders designed to match individual tractors. In addition, the optional iTEC Basic headland management system helps the operator to automate multiple functions simultaneously. John Deere 6M Series tractors can also be optionally fitted with GreenStar and ISOBUS ready wiring, to further improve productivity, and come fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and integrated immobiliser systems.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 31
| Buildings
32 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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| LAMMA
Has there been a better time to Buy and Comply? Are you meeting legal requirements? ith the screw turning ever tighter on compliance with anti-pollution legislation, the current special offers on-line and, of course, Single Farm Payments, the time surely is right to renew old and illegal fuel and oil tanks! Be it steel or plastic tanks for fuel, oil, water or AdBlue, there are some really good offers on the web right now and Bundedtanks.com is no exception with a very comprehensive range of tanks, accessories, spill products and more. With the farming and agricultural communities ever in mind Bundedtanks.com has recently expanded their range. Take, for example, the CEMO range and particularly the portable dispensing tanks, under the name DT Mobil Easy, for diesel and AdBlue, now up to 600 litres and ADR approved. These sturdily built, quality tanks are available in a variety of specifications to suit the needs of most: Hand or battery operated pumps, with or without security lid and assorted sizes from 125 litres to now include 600 litres. There are other new models due in the New Year from CEMO too, including more portable petrol storage. Also of interest will be the additions to the Carbery range, including the new Super Slim 1000 litre oil tank. At just 650 mm wide, this tank will fit through pretty much any doorway! With a keen price of £775 plus VAT delivered and a free Apollo Ultrasonic Gauge to keep an eye on the contents, this surely has to be one of the best offers around. The Carbery 1350
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Fuel Point is also a steal at just £799 delivered whilst the 6000 litre model is sure to appeal to those needing a larger capacity. Other bunded diesel dispensing solutions are available on Bundedtanks.com too in vandal resistant steel, if security is an issue, or in plastic with a variety of sizes from 1300 to 10,000 litres. Then there is CEMO’s 1000 litres Unitank plastic in steel package deal. Bespoke steel tanks are available and can be up to 80,000 litres with sizing to suit your requirements. To answer growing concerns over ever increasing fuel thefts, particularly in rural areas and remote locations, Bundedtanks.com’s Tank Accessories and Security section includes pumps, filters, gauges, hoses and, of course,
the frequently asked for and all-important fuel tank security items. Come and visit the Bundedtanks.com and CEMO stand at LAMMA 2013. For further information visit www.bundedtanks.com, E-mail: info@bundedtanks.com or call 0845 600 3572
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 33
| LAMMA
Kubota proves its worth Five years of faithful service & more to come. irencester Golf Club in Gloucestershire is set in the picturesque Cotswolds, a mixture of parkland and open rolling country. The terrain includes some steep climbs and a deep valley between the fourth and fifth hole, so Kubota’s RTV900 utility vehicle is very much at home at the club. Course Manager Richard Louisson explains: “We undertake a lot of our construction work ourselves in the winter months, and we need a vehicle capable of moving materials about that can get into restricted areas. We had an older petrol utility vehicle, but after a very good demonstration of the RTV900 by our dealer, we knew it was the machine for us.” The RTV900 was delivered at the end of 2007, and has given five years reliable service since. “I liked the size and power of the RTV900, yet it is still highly manoeuvrable,” Richard comments. “It has a good size bed with a half-tonne capacity, and the hydraulic tip is a big bonus as it means we can easily move sand and stone around the course.” Used on a daily basis, the RTV900 has already clocked up 2200 hours, and Richard comments that it does the work of a tractor while accessing places that a tractor could not go. The bench seat in the spacious cockpit means that up to two greenkeepers can travel together to a job needing manpower, and the windscreen and roof give
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protection from the elements while allowing them to jump on or off quickly at the work site. “It’s really well built and robust with generous ground clearance, which means it can easily cope with more challenging terrain, and feels safe and stable,” Richard comments. “The chunky tyres are good too, providing plenty of traction without marking the turf.” The RTV can also pull a trailer to move hand mowers around the course and an optional front hitch was added allowing a five basket collector to be fitted for picking up range balls. “That’s quite a lot of weight when full, yet the Kubota handles it well even on a steep slope,” he says. All maintenance is carried out in the club’s workshops, using a service pack provided by their dealer, and Richard comments that access for maintenance is very good. “But the RTV900 has been so reliable we have had to do little to it except routine maintenance,” he points out. After five years faithful service, the RTV900 is still in good order and Richard comments that he would expect it to last at least another five. “I would thoroughly recommend the RTV900 as an ideal utility vehicle for golf courses. We’ve also got a 4WD pick up as a run around, but the Kubota is so much lighter – there’s plenty of grip but it is also gentle on the turf,” he adds.
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| LAMMA
Custom made all-rounder Case IH to launch new Farmall U Pro, an all-rounder precisely matched to modern requirements of mixed and livestock farms omprehensive market research and field testing on a scale rarely seen before on an all-round Case IH tractor has driven the development of the newly-announced Farmall U Pro, a new tractor concept designed by Case IH engineers to meet consistently the requirements of today’s mixed and arable farms. During the tractor’s test phase, more than 1,000 European farmers were asked about their exact operating requirements. That was followed by numerous customer clinics at which prototypes and concepts were tested early on for their practical feasibility. "What we discovered is that what European farmers require of a versatile all-round tractor has changed considerably in recent years,” says Remo Müller, Product Marketing Manager Europe for Farmall U. “Operating conditions are more varied, and application scenarios in terms of the equipment combinations used have become more professional. "Powerful engines with high torque boost and lower fuel consumption, a comfortable working space, good terrain compatibility and an ideal partner for loader work are the most important requirements mentioned by farmers in our research. In the field, customers are also looking for flexible working environment at the front, rear and sides of the tractor, while they need tractors that can handle mounted implements that are getting larger and require higher performance from hydraulic systems.” Based on this up-to-date application profile, the new Farmall U Pro was developed completely from the ground up in St. Valentin, Austria, over a 12 month period. At
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the Case IH international dealer meeting in September 2012, this modern all-rounder will be unveiled to European Case IH dealers for the first time. With the Farmall U Pro, Case IH presents a new all-round tractor that from the beginning has been developed to meet changed requirements for a versatile tractor to perform transport jobs, aroundthe-farm tasks and heavy tillage, as well as harvesting work. Power comes courtesy of the latest engine technology. A 3.4 litre common rail engine with EGR and DPF delivers powerful outputs with minimal fuel consumption while complying with current emissions standards. To begin, three models in the new series will be available, with engine power outputs of 95, 105 and 115 hp. In addition to the latest engine technology, the new Farmall U Pro also sets new standards in terms of equipment. The transmission has been developed in a joint project with ZF and features innovative details in this tractor class. For the first time in a Case IH tractor of this class, a 32+32 Eco gearbox is used with four-speed load shifting. A maximum speed of 40 kph is achieved in Eco mode at reduced engine rpm, making a considerable contribution to fuel savings. The Farmall U Pro is also equipped as standard with a fourspeed PTO with 1,900 rpm Eco speed – ideal for fuel-saving operation of PTO-powered machinery such as balers while still benefiting from full power.
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| Energy
Morris Corfield & Co Limited Benthall Works, Shropshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01952 881000
Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Tel: 01923 265211
Newton Street, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9PJ Tel: 01588 673325
A14 Telford Road, Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Tel: 01869 329988
Westington Works, Docklow, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0SJ Tel: 01885 488884
Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Tel: 01582 727111
Wilfred Scruton Limited Maxwell House, Riccall Grange, King Rudding Lane, Riccall, York YO19 6QL Tel: 01757 249799
Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552
Providence Foundry, Foxholes, Driffield, E. Yorkshire YO25 3QQ Tel: 01262 470221
Bellard Court, Platts Lane, Duddon, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 0EU 36 |Tel: Farming 01829 Monthly 749391 | November 2012
Nigel Quinn (AMS) Limited 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston Lancashire PR4 6JR Tel/Fax: 01704 822272 Mobile: 07973 519491 www.nigelquinnams.co.uk
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| Finance
Significant finance savings for farmers Reliability and trustworthyness make farmers a low risk propersition. t’s been a challenging year for our farming clients in all sectors. With variable weather (including a years rainfall in the space of 3 months) resulting in a poor year for food production, an on-off badger cull, and a campaign by the NFU to release the pressure exerted on dairy farmers by the UK’s supermarkets, farming issues have been hitting the headlines throughout 2012. With several banks revising their agricultural lending targets for the year downwards despite the government and RBI calling for increased lending to the sector, many farmers are looking for alternative means of raising the funding they need to see their way through the winter. Some of the problems they face will be beyond their control. Dairy farmers face a grim time as a combination of high feed costs and low milk prices that at one point looked set to plunge further this year. But other issues can be more easily solved. Many of the problems faced over the coming months will involve tax, with farmers forced to
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compromise their spending in other areas in order to meet these. With the removal of 100% capital tax relief on plant and machinery purchases in excess of £25,000, farmers can no longer buy their way out of profit to mitigate this. Nationwide Corporate Finance have been speaking directly to our customers in the farming sector and have put together a range of financial packages aimed at easing them through difficult times. We’ve been lending into the sector for over a decade, and have a specialist team advising farmers from across the UK on how they can use their existing assets to release capital, or work with suppliers and lenders to make sure they get the equipment they need without delay. The reason we are able to offer specialist treatment to farmers? It’s quite simple, they make the best customers. With excellent track records for staying out of arrears, low fraud rates and realistic expectations, farmers make reliable, trustworthy customers. That low risk means we can pass on significant savings.
Insurance best advice: review your cover annually David Orrell from Chartered Loss Adjusters Agrical gives some sound advice on how to avoid insurance pitfalls. nsurance is one of those things – an unavoidable expense – but it comes into its own when you have a crisis – theft, flood or fire. The best piece of advice we can give farmers is to review your cover annually and choose a specialist broker with access to the agricultural insurance market, to ensure competitive premiums and a choice of supplier and cover. Underinsurance A major problem we encounter is underinsurance, not only on farm buildings, but on machinery, livestock and produce. Farmers need to be aware of peak values of crops or livestock and check that sums insured are set appropriately. In our experience, losses from fires are most common in autumn, when produce levels are at their highest. And remember, that in the event of underinsurance, the policy condition of ‘Average’ may apply. Check policy limits and warranties, especially stack limit in relation to hay and straw where insurers limit their liability to a certain value or size. Farm buildings Our advice is use a professional valuer and not to set a sum insured based on the cost of supplying a kit form building as advertised in the farm press. We’ve seen cover arranged on this basis but it doesn’t take account of construction costs, services, concrete, demolition/debris removal or professional fees.
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Most insurance policies will offer farm building insurance on either a modern materials or reinstatement basis. If buildings are listed or in a National Park or a Conservation Area reinstatement cover is required to cover repairs or rebuilding in traditional materials. Motor Check your cover for ATVs, mules and farm bikes and be aware of the policy conditions particularly regarding theft. There may be a warranty requiring that keys are kept in safe storage and the vehicle must be chained to an immoveable object. Business interruption Speak to your broker about the benefits such as protecting future revenue. This is quite common for intensive risks, such as pigs and poultry, but as beneficial in other areas. This policy would not only protect reductions in revenue following an insured event, but also provide valuable increased costs of working cover, for example, hiring storage facilities or off-site grain drying in the event of damage at the farm. Think how long it would take your business to fully recover following a major insured event and consider the indemnity period - 12 months may, at first glance, appear to be a reasonable period, but we suggest 24 months should be selected.
Environmental Standard Farm Combined policies may not pay out in the event of an escape of a hydrocarbon product - kerosene or diesel - or chemicals on your own land. Specialist environmental liability cover is required to protect you against such costs as your own land clean-up and disposal of contaminated material. This will be combined with a hefty bill from the Environment Agency fulfilling a statutory duty to investigate and assist with on or off-site remediation. And finally, please declare all diversification, otherwise your insurance policy could be seriously jeopardised. David Orrell: david.orrell@agrical.com www.agrical.com
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| Finance
Don’t leave your finances to chance Falling profits and rising tax bills can be mitigated to some extent with careful planning and proper advice. hat a year it has been thanks to the weather! Just when arable farming results were becoming easy to forecast, we have experienced one of the most difficult harvest periods for a long time. 2012 harvest yields were down 20% to 40% and there has been poor establishment for the 2013 harvest. Budget yields will again be lower than the five-year average for most farms. As accountants for over 500 farming businesses across the East Midlands, we are also having to give further bad news regarding tax. Just as profits drop, we have to warn that tax bills may rise. Capital allowances on plant and machinery have been cut back significantly. Now it is only the first £25,000 which will attract 100% relief, with anything over this getting 18% reducing balance. This effectively spreads the tax relief over the life of the machine, so it is quite reasonable and back to where we were ten years ago. The accelerated capital allowances since 2008 have caused most businesses to have a very low machinery pool in their tax computations. Some even
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have a zero pool. Typically we see a 400 hectare business with machinery:
Market Value Accounts Value Tax Value Any sales without replacement made will be taxed at the marginal rate, probably 40% in most businesses now. The second reason for future tax increases is the payment on account (POA) system. POAs are paid in January and July, with a balancing payment made in the following January. Although good profits were made for harvests 2010 and 2011, we clever accountants have kept tax bills quite low by using farmer’s averaging to reduce taxable profits and therefore reduce POAs for the following year. POAs are due assuming a similar taxable profit is made by the business the following year. Most people experienced higher profits in their 2012 accounts (based on harvest 2011) and so will have a higher balancing
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payment due in January 2013. Due to capital allowance changes, taxable profits to April
£250,000 £150,000 £0 2013 may also be higher, giving even higher balancing payments to pay to HM Revenue & Customs in January 2014. Please spend time this winter looking at your own situation regarding future tax bills. There are a number of things that can be done. One that is proving popular at the moment is to introduce a limited company as a partner in the business. Careful planning is needed but small companies pay tax at 20%, which reduces the tax burden overall. Duncan & Toplis have ten offices across the East Midlands but also act nationwide, so please get in touch if you would like to discuss your own tax situation; Mark Chatterton on 01636 640321 or email mark.chatterton@duntop.co.uk www.duntop.co.uk
Mark Chatterton
Mark Chatterton FCA BSc (Hons) is based in Newark and specialises in agriculture. He advises over 150 family farming businesses in the East Midlands. Mark comes from a farming family and has gained a degree in agriculture. His experience includes assisting businesses with change and understanding all financial and taxation issues and he is often involved with agricultural joint ventures. Mark lives in the Vale of Belvoir and is a keen horse rider and Treasurer of the Flintham and District Agricultural Society.
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| Finance
What is more important: Ownership or useage? Depending on an individual’s circumstances, an Operating Lease product may be the way to go. ith the cost of raw materials rising, unfavourable exchange rates and the changes to Capital allowances which came into force at the start of the current financial year, expenditure on capital equipment along with affordability is a topic high in people’s mind. Equipment costs are high and farmers need to ensure that equipment purchased is the most effective equipment operationally as well as financially. There is definitely more consideration being given as to how to fund new equipment requirements. Traditionally the agricultural market has wanted assurance of title to the equipment, and therefore if funding was used, hire purchase has been the finance product of choice. At Hitachi Capital Business Finance we are seeing increasingly more enquiries for Operating Lease in the market. Why? Customers are starting to question whether it is ownership that they need or usage. Should they consider an Operating Lease product that reduces their payments, or alternatively allows for the same payment as the payments on hire purchase agreement would have been, but customers can finance more expensive equipment with a higher specification, rather than what the budget in borrowing on a traditional product would allow? Put simply, an operating lease is designed for hirers who want to use the equipment without any of the risks and rewards of ownership. There are a number of key features associated with operating leases, all of which are based around the principle that the hirer pays rentals based on the equipment cost less a projected future disposal value. Hitachi Capital have a very experienced asset management team, who research the agricultural market thoroughly, and they will assess and underwrite the residual value (the amount that we value the equipment to be at the end of term), and as the owner, we will take full risk on this. In addition, whilst with traditional hire purchase agreements, the full VAT on the asset cost and a significant deposit might be required, this is not generally the case with operating leases so the initial outlay is significantly reduced, usually to one monthly rental plus the VAT associated to that rental. The period of hire and the rentals are fixed in advance, normally between 36 and 60 months. VAT is paid on each rental as it falls due, and all rentals paid are normally fully allowable as a business expense. Rentals can be calculated seasonally to reflect the income of the individual customer. Flexibility is greater, if the equipment is to match a specific contract and then the contract is not renewed, with an operating lease you simply return the equipment, rather than being left with equipment that no longer generates income. An operating lease arrangement offers a considerable benefit to the customer’s cashflow, which has become more important over time. An operating lease arrangement can substantially reduce the rentals, because the projected residual value is offset against the equipment cost. Equipment that has strong used resale values tends to support attractive
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Marie Dunkley, Head of Sales, Hitachi Capital Business Finance
pricing terms when operating lease is opted for. Operating lease enables businesses that make intensive use of machinery (for examples contractors or farms with a large acreage) to take advantage of the latest technological advances. The fixed period of hire and rental costs associated with this help to ensure that customers can budget extremely accurately for new machinery, confident that the cost can be covered by operating revenues, and that there is no risk of unforeseen losses or shortfalls on disposal, since these are born by the lessor. As well as fixed rental costs, maintenance can also be collected alongside the rentals, again at a fixed cost, alleviating the chance of costly surprises! For limited companies, there is the added advantage that assets acquired and used under an operating lease do not appear in the balance sheet. With the Annual Investment Allowance for the current financial year falling to £25,000
(compared to £100,000 for the previous year), operating lease will become more popular as a financial product, proving attractive to businesses which have or are planning significant annual expenditure in new machinery which exceeds this amount, although your accountant’s advice is important in reaching that decision. The key question remains though, what is more important to you, ownership or useage?
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| Pests
Grain fumigation Ensuring stock levels are maintained. he repercussions of the recent poor weather conditions are likely to be far reaching, with crop yields seriously reduced. In early October the National Farmers Union (NFU) warned that wheat yields could be reduced by up to 15% on the 5 year average, with productivity down to 1980’s levels. This year’s crop is more precious than ever, so don’t take a chance on it being decimated further by pest activity. We are all aware of the damage that rats can do to stored crops. For every kilo of product consumed by rodents, 10 kilo of produce destined for human or animal consumption is
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contaminated with their urine and droppings, rendering it useless. But what can be the results of insect infestation on an already reduced harvest? Infestations of grain pests such as the Saw Tooth Grain Beatle and Grain Weevil can be devastating. Unchecked infestations will decimate stored grain and render it useless. As always, in such situations, prevention is better than cure. By cooling the grain to temperatures of 15c you can slow down and eventually stop insect breeding and development. Complement the cooling of grain with regular inspections to product and storage areas by a suitably qualified person, and you will ensure that infestation will be spotted early and that insect activity can be dealt with before any major damage occurs. If you do find evidence of insects, rapid action is required and fumigation with a metallic phosphide will usually be the most suitable course of action. However, remember that the fumigants currently available for fumigating grain are highly toxic and can kill. There is no antidote to phosphine, the gas that is released by metallic phosphides and in the hand of an unskilled operator, these products can be deadly. It is
essential that you put the process of fumigation in the hands of a skilled contractor who understands the pest, the product and the treatment site. This will ensure that you, your staff and your animals remain safe during the fumigation process. When you require the services of a Fumigator to inspect or treat grain, always use a Fumigator who holds the British Pest Control Association (BPCA)’Certificate of Proficiency for Fumigation Operators’, and whom is preferably a current full servicing member of the BPCA. Our members meet strict membership criteria, and are regularly assessed, and our training is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive. When you have a fumigation carried out on site by a trained operator, it is essential that you follow the advice and instruction of the company to ensure that the fumigation is ultimately successful without putting people on site at risk. You should never remove sheets or enter fumigation areas before they have been declared safe by your contractor. Should you require further information on BPCA Fumigators in your areas, or to ensure that your current Fumigator is suitably qualified to carry out the work they are doing, please contact the British Pest Control Association on 01332 294288 / or visit www.bpca.org.uk
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| Pests
Fight back with Fuminex Rodent season for farmers Recent weather conditions have resulted in increased grainstore pest issues which require professional attention. ave you been unfortunate enough to have experienced a problem with insect infestations in your grain stores? Insect activity can be directly related to weather conditions. Cold spells reduce insect activity, however, this will only be for the short term. When temperatures rise, insect activity & metabolism will increase & infestations will progress, thus increasing chance of rejection & increased haulage costs. With circumstances beyond our control contributing to this problem (warmer climate, more stringent sampling etc) at some stage, no matter how well you manage your grain store (cleaning & insecticide treatments), you could still find yourself with a troublesome infestation which left untreated will cause deterioration of grain quality and thus reducing the value of your crop. This can result in the inconvenience of not being able to market your grain when planned. How can this be mitigated?
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After new crop grain is in store, we recommend the use of pitfall & probe traps plus temperature checks with monthly monitoring to ascertain the levels, if any, of insect infestation. If hot spots are detected further investigation needs to be carried out to eliminate infestation as being the root cause. Fuminex recommend that the sooner the problem is dealt with the more efficient & cost effective the treatment will be. Fuminex a company fully committed to serving the agricultural & cereals sector. Contact us for a rapid, reliable & honest fumigation solution. Telephone: 01977 684002, Mobile 07968 739872 or visit www.fuminex.co.uk
Wet weather sees increase.
utumn is not just a busy time for farmers trying to ensure the harvest is collected. Colder weather conditions and the lack of food left in the fields encourages the movement of rodent pests such as the Brown Rat, away from external harbourages and towards farm buildings, where food and livestock are housed. When rats gain access to, and settle in, farm buildings, a number of issues arise that make their presence unacceptable. Rats are capable of spreading a wide number of viruses, bacteria and parasites that can have a detrimental effect on the health of both humans and animals. Approximately 10 people and a number of dogs die from Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) every year as a direct result of contact with Brown rats and their urine, so control is essential. Due to their gnawing habits, rodents can also cause heavy damage to farm buildings. Their constantly growing incisor teeth require wearing down – rodents achieve this by gnawing items such as brick, wood, and even steel. Electrical wires, gas pipes, and water tanks are all easy pickings for chewing rodents, and all can cause wholesale damage and destruction if gnawed. Fires in farm buildings can often be attributed to rodent infestations, and the small print of your insurance documents may exclude rodent caused damage from your policy. Not only will rats damage and contaminate stored grain and food for human consumption, they will also decimate animal feed, incurring heavy costs and further threatening the wellbeing of farm animals. The average rat will eat 50 grams of food across a 24 hour period, and can contaminate 10 times more product with their droppings and urine. If you consider how much damage a
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population of 20 rats could do to food and feeds across the winter months, you could quite easily experience the loss of several tonnes of stock. So what action can you take to help discourage rodents from your farms and buildings? You may have already noticed a rise in rat activity as the pests are displaced by the unusually high rain fall that we have endured this summer. But it is still not too late to take action. Always remember that rats especially are animals of habit. They like to feel comfortable in their environment, and the less it is disturbed, the better it is for rodents. So if you have been meaning to tidy up, or have some long standing items around the farm thrown away, now is an excellent time to remove such items. By doing so you will start to remove areas where rodents can live, and you’ll deter them from moving in to the farm areas by continually modifying their environment. When you do get signs of actrivity, act upon them as soon as possible. If you do use rodenticide to control infestation, make sure you are using enough to control the infestation and you are visiting the bait on a regular basis to ensure that it is replenished as required, and there has been no spillage likely to contaminate non target species. Remember that there may be changes to the labels of the rodenticides that you are using on a regular basis, so make sure you are checking the product labels to avoid any legislation breach. If you would like further information regarding pest control, or would like to consult with a professional pest control company that is a member of the UK’s leading Trade body , please contact the British Pest Control Association on 01332 294 288, or visit us at www.bpca.org.uk.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 41
| Pests
Rodent control: A professional necessity or a bodge job?
There are more rodents around than usual...
Would you have a pest controller planting your fields and looking after your cattle? No? Sometimes, it’s just easier to ‘bite the bullet’ and secure the services of an industry professional. ike it or not, effective rodent control on your farm has to be carried out. If you don’t put in the necessary effort and investment, rats and mice can rapidly cause enormous damage to your produce, property and profits. This is going to be even more important when climatic conditions mean there are more rodents around than usual – which appears to be the case this year. As with any work, however, you can either bring in a professional to do it for you, or you can do-it-yourself. When money is tight, the second option can appear very attractive. But, if you go down this
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route, make sure you know what you’re doing. There’s a great deal more to rodent control than whacking down a bit of bait. The legislative environment surrounding the use of rodenticides is changing all the time and is undergoing big changes at the moment. Resistance to the products used in both rat and mouse control is growing all the time. It is very easy to damage your local environment with the very persistent pesticides that are used, laying yourself open to legal consequences - and remember that ignorance is no defence in Law. Demonstrating that you are ‘taking all reasonable precautions’ to do things properly requires an adequate paper trail. Doing-it-yourself properly will
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require in-depth training and you will need to make sure your competence is maintained over the years. Your local agricultural college will be able to help with this. The alternative is for you to focus your time on doing what you do best and getting a professional pest controller in to do what they do best. The difficulty is in choosing who to employ. The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) has the largest number of independent Members throughout the country. Membership requires that technicians are properly trained and insured. An elite part of the Membership, the ‘Accredited Members’ are also audited regularly to make sure
they are working to Industry Best Practices. You can also check whether specific technicians are members of the industry’s CPD scheme, the Professional Register of Managers and Pest Technicians (PROMPT) which is administered by BASIS. Having a professional, with a local reputation to maintain, that you can rely on to help you in this increasingly complex issue, could well turn out to be the most costeffective approach to this problem. Why not contact the NPTA for further information about their Members in your area. The National Pest Technicians Association can be contacted on 01773 717 716; e-mail: office@npta.org.uk; web site: www.npta.org.uk
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Pests
Birds a flocking nuisence Scare’m away There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. own through the ages man has done battle with birds to keep them away from particular areas, in times gone by this would often have been food crops or food storage areas. Today things are different, birds are considered a nuisance or even a hazard in many different places, farms, factories, shopping centres, fish farms, airports, food outlets and a myriad of other places. For many, the scarecrow was the archetypal bird scarer, built to resemble a human but modified numerous times over the years, different shapes, iridescent material, movement and noise have all been tried in an effort to improve efficiency with varying degrees of success. Over the years many methods have been tried, some more successful than others, using trained creatures such as hawks or dogs to get the birds to leave has been used and works very well,
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however when the creature and handler are not present the birds return, which means it can be expensive if long term clearance is required. A similar method, though not using live deterrent creatures is model aircraft, flown around the bird infested area, again this will
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require the flyer to be present for as long as needed to clear the problem. Balloons and kites are available with differing shapes and colours and can prove a relatively inexpensive method of bird control, although they may be tricky to use around airfields. Devices that create noise are popular, often because they are automated, probably the best known one is the 'banger', a propane powered gas gun that produces a loud explosion at intervals. This method is often not popular with local residents. Repellers using digitally recorded sounds of distress calls and predators can be effective as they can be programmed to automatically change the sounds, the duration of the sounds and how often they are played. This can help prevent the birds from becoming used to the sounds and ignoring them. Any system that uses noise should be used carefully in order to avoid noise pollution and the possibility of incurring the wrath of the local authorities. For smaller areas where audible sound cannot be tolerated, high frequency or ultrasonic sound can provide a solution, however a clear line of sight is required for this method to be effective. Lasers can work
Designed by a farmer - for farmers - to quietly patrol and protect your fields. he self launching bird scaring kite is without doubt the leader in its field. Not only is it the strongest and toughest on the market but it is designed by a farmer for
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farmers using only the highest quality materials. It quietly patrols your fields 24 hours a day. The new hawk protects even more acres than the standard kite. The hawk is very realistic and a natural deterrent to many birds from Pigeons and Rooks to Geese and Cormorants. Scarem comes in a complete kit and is so easy and quick to assemble and to move from one field to the next in a matter of minutes. It really works! Please visit us at the Lamma 2013 where we will be showing the new Vineyard/Orchard Scare’m. Contact Scare’m! at Tawney Barn, Tawney Common, Nr
Epping, Essex CM16 7PX Tel: 01992 524991 Mob. 07802 628011 or email: john@gallowayfarms.org website: www.scarem.co.uk
“Designed by a farmer through extensive self testing. About eight years ago we were having trouble with pigeons on the farm along with every other arable farmer in the country. We have found since using the Scare’m on our oil seed rape crop our yields have increased massively along with our profit margins.”
effectively for some species of birds, but can prove tricky to set up with ambient light levels having a bearing on the efficacy. With all methods there are advantages and disadvantages and there is no 'one size fits all', every situation has to be evaluated in order to come up with the best solution. Contact Martley Electronics on 01905 621313 or visit www.martleyelectronics.co.uk
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 43
| Sheep & Lambing
Health, handling and housing NSA offers sage advice on the ‘three H’s’. hile the ‘Three F’s’ – feed, fertiliser and fuel – are completely outside the control of all farmers, at least the same is not true of the ‘Three H’s’ – health, handling and housing. While it would be nice to have a bottomless pot of money to put up purpose-built sheds and fancy handling systems, a lot can be done without spending a fortune. And the same goes for health – the basics can go a long way to making a difference. Health The list of ailments affecting sheep can seems endless, making it a daunting task to have a proactive plan to protect your flock from all of them. So while ‘flock health plan’ may not be an exciting phrase, it is important to speak to your vet/advisor and create something that works for your farm. At the very least it can identify key risks and where the biggest gains can be made, so view it as an investment – preventing just a few losses at lambing time, or finding you can
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reduce wormer use by faecal egg counting, can be a real pay-back. Some vet practices will even base their bill on how many extra lambs you finish each year, so look at some of the alternative options out there. Handling Efficient handling is less stressful for sheep and less stressful for you. And while you can spend a fortune on shiny hurdles and expensive kit, sometimes really cheap solutions make all the difference. For example, good handling system rely on open sided races in some places and closed in others – so just putting a bit boarding up and restricting certain views can massively speed the job up. It doesn’t matter whether you are starting from scratch or modifying what you have, the trick is to take the time to stand back and think what will work best for the amount of time and range of activities you use the handling system for. There is so much information out there about what works well, so take
advantage and use the literature already out there from Eblex and other organisations. Housing When it comes to housing, the range of options is so huge – from never housing stock to having top-of-the-range indoor lambing systems – that the only rule to apply to every flock, it that the best option is what suits your flock, you and any staff you have. Tripping over loose hurdles during a late-night lambing check isn’t going to help you or the ewe, so however much events might conspire against you in the busy run-up to lambing, take the time to get the shed right beforehand. And remember, it doesn’t have to be beautiful to be functional.
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| Sheep & Lambing
Daltons for price, quality Making the most of EID & service and your product Actions speak louder than words - try us.
Don’t settle for avoidable wasteage - maximise returns.
t Dalton ID we pride ourselves on producing high quality tags across a broad range of animals such as, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats even seals, yes seals. Producing animal ID since 1947 means we have a wealth of knowledge and expertise available ensuring our products meet latest industry requirements whilst our efficient manufacturing processes guarantee high quality tags at industry busting prices. So confident are we in the quality of our tags that we will replace any Supertag cattle ear tag that fails FREE of charge*. At £1.30 for a
M Handling Systems Ltd has been building quality conveyor systems for over 17 years now. The reason we developed the weighing conveyor system 17 years ago was in order to stabilize lambs for an ultra-sound back-fat scanning system for consistency in the commercial sector. There is a market place for every lamb, its just getting the right lamb into that market place, take for example, if customers buy 130 lambs to fit an order of 100 because they factor in a percentage of wastage of the wrong specification which is why I always tend to drift towards backfat scanning as it seems to be a cure for waste. Knowing what grade your animals are live could increase your profits as it allows you to target the right market place which in turn will reduce waste. Once an animal is hanging up, there is nothing a farmer can do. Although EID sounds scary at first, it was just as scary as when
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large plastic/metal cattle combo you get a great value deal, whilst sheep slaughter tags start at £0.10 for visual and £0.56 for EID slaughter. Need an applicator? Not a problem, you could well qualify for a FREE applicator too! At Dalton we understand that words are easy to say but actions are what really count that’s why our commitment to you is “Price, Quality & Service”. Dalton, ask for it by name or Freephone 0800 838882 for more information. *see website for terms and conditions.
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pregnancy scanning was first introduced. Until you see the benefits of your investment, it's hard to buy into it. EID allows you to record singles, twins, triplets etc during the pregnancy scanning which is vital statistical information in order to maximise your livestock. UK farmers have a superior product and in order to be competitive in the global market we need to consider all the available technology to maximise our livestock.
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| Animal Health
Your first step to increased profitability Bimectin Plus: Take control of Liver Fluke, Stomach Worms and Lungworm in one injection. t is that time of the year again; Housing is just a few short weeks away. It must be borne in mind that cattle have spent the summer grazing in the wettest conditions we have seen for many years. These conditions have been ideal for development of a number of parasites including stomach worms (Trichostrongylosis), lungworm or husk and liver fluke (Fascioliasis). Liver fluke (Fascioliasis) is caused by a specific flatworm, known as Fasciola hepatica. This parasite has a complicated life cycle that typically takes from 9-20 weeks to progress from beginning to end. Immature stages of the liver fluke are also able to survive in a cyst-like structure, similar to Dictyocaulus. The encysted fluke can survive in this state for up to 2 years, particularly over mild winters. This has knock on effects for control measures as it means that once fluke is established, control programmes must be followed year-in, year-out. Liver fluke levels have been rising
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consistently in the UK over recent years and farms on all types of land, including those on traditionally drier land must now ensure fluke surveillance and control strategies are in place. The mild weather of last winter coupled with the record rain fall of this summer have being ideal for high fluke and snail levels this year in particular and many abattoirs are reporting high levels of liver condemnation than previously seen. Remember that sub-clinical fluke in cattle causes reduced profitability due to lack of thrive, reduced food conversion efficacy, lowered fertility and reduced milk yield. So just because your stock do not have obvious symptoms such as bottle –jaw, diarrhoea and weight loss does not mean your stock are fluke free. Trichostrongylosis (Ostertagiosis) is caused by a family of roundworm parasites. One of the most notable parasites in this group is Trichlostronglus Ostertagii. These parasites cause Parasitic Gastroenteritis (PGE), of which there are two types. Type 1
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PGE is caused directly by the presence of large numbers of roundworms within the intestine, each feeding on the intestinal lining, thereby depriving the bovine host of nutrients. Type 2 is caused by immature worms burrowing into the lining of the intestine and re-emerging in large numbers mid-winter. Type 1 PGE is the type most commonly encountered during the summer grazing season. These parasites typically develop from egg to adult within 21-28 days, in warm weather 21 days is more common. Lungworm or Husk (Dictyocauliasis) is caused by a roundworm which effectively lodges itself within the windpipes of the bovine host. This leads to obstruction of the airways, along with collapse of the air sacs (known as alveoli) within the lung. It is not uncommon for bacterial or viral pneumonia to develop secondary to lungworm infestation. Lungworm is most commonly seen in young grazing stock which, cough when excited or roused. The duration of the life
cycle of these worms is similar to that of the roundworms. However, part of the development is spent on pasture within a cyst-like structure, where the immature worm can quite easily overwinter. This allows the infestation to persist from one grazing season to the next. Lungworms, stomach worms and liver fluke can all have a devastating economic effect on the cattle herd. Bimectin Plus is the recent addition to the Bimeda product range which can help you to control all three parasites. Bimectin plus contains Ivermectin and Clorsulon, two potent anthelmintics. Clorsulon is a potent flukicide, causing adult liver fluke to become unable to metabolise sugar and to die of starvation. This powerful combination allows you to control adult liver fluke, stomach worms and lungworm in one injection. For more details on Bimectin Plus or any of the Bimeda product range please go to www.bimeda.co.uk or ask your local stockist.
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| Sheep & Lambing
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| Energy
Wind energy – generating clean electricity By Rob Norris, Head of Communications, RenewableUK e are passionate about wind energy. We want to generate as much clean electricity as possible, by harnessing the power of nature. We want to escape from the stranglehold of dirty, expensive, polluting fossil fuels, so that we can leave a lasting legacy for the UK - a better environment for our children and grandchildren. RenewableUK is the trade association representing the wind energy industry. We were founded in 1978 as the British Wind Energy Association, and we’ve been growing ever since. The UK’s first wind farm was built in Delabole, Cornwall in 1991. Since then, onshore wind energy has established itself as a mature, clean and productive technology. It is now the UK’s largest and cheapest source of renewable energy generation, helping to keep consumer bills down, as well as earning money for farmers and landowners. Research conducted by RenewableUK and the Department of Energy and Climate Change has shown that for each installed megawatt of wind-energy , around
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£100,000 per year stays in the community during the 25-year lifetime of a project. Onshore wind farms reduce carbon emissions and provide energy security – meaning we don’t have to rely so much on importing expensive supplies from abroad. Onshore wind works well in the UK because of the excellent wind resource – we are the windiest country in the whole of Europe. So far, we have an installed capacity of over 5,000 megawatts of onshore wind – enough to power over 3 million homes. A modern 2.5 megawatt turbine, on a reasonably windy site, will generate 6.5 million units of electricity each year – enough to make 230 million cups of tea. The UK generates about 10% of its electricity from renewable energy sources – about half of that comes from onshore and offshore wind energy. Opinion polls consistently show high levels of support for onshore wind in the UK, with higher support in rural areas. About twothirds of the public say they want more wind
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energy installed. In the UK, there are more than 340 onshore wind projects, ranging from single turbines to larger, multi-turbine schemes. Projects are developed by an increasingly wide range of people, from large energy companies and independent developers, to farmers, community groups and small businesses. In the right location, a 20 metre tall wind turbine can produce the vast majority of the power your building uses. A 50metre wind turbine could supply enough energy for 60 homes, a small business, or a farmstead. There are a number of steps to go through to ensure the correct siting of a wind turbine, including wind speed analysis and consultation with local planners. The financial incentives from schemes like the Feed-in Tariff can be very rewarding. The FiTs are a government incentive, aimed at encouraging the deployment of small scale renewable electricity generation. Since its introduction in April 2010 the FiT scheme has provided significant stimulus for small and medium wind developments in the UK. When installing an officially-accredited wind turbine, the scheme guarantees payment for the electricity you generate and use, and an additional payment for any surplus electricity you export to the National Grid. The
scheme provides 20 years guaranteed revenue, with a return on investment within 3 to 8 years. Generally the better sited the turbine, the faster it will pay back the initial investment. If you need extra information: RenewableUK has produced a guide called Generate Your Own Power, which shows farmers how to cut your carbon footprint, reduce your bills, and make money selling the electricity you make back to the grid by installing a small wind system: www.renewableuk.com/en/publicat ions/guides.cfm/gyop1 We also have a collection of case studies which illustrate a range of applications that are possible for wind power generation by individuals, farmers and communities: //www.renewableuk.com/en/public ations/guides.cfm/GYOP_STUDIE S If you are a farmer or landowner interested in hosting or developing a commercial wind farm on your land and you would like to get involved with an interested wind energy company, RenewableUK offers a free advice service on our website: www.renewableuk.com/en/renewa ble-energy/wind-energy/onshorewind/interested-landowners.cfm
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| Energy
Evance Turbines power milking parlour In Derbyshire a family run dairy farm has turned to wind power to generate energy and cut costs by nearly 50%. he Fox family has been farming for decades and the rising cost of energy to power their 135 cow milking parlour and listed farm house prompted Steven Fox to investigate the potential of renewable energy. Mr Fox undertook a lot of research into the wide range of renewable energy solutions available. Attending a local farm tour about wind power provided him with invaluable insight into the potential benefits of investing in wind turbines. He decided to purchase two small wind turbines which for his situation would provide greater efficiency than one larger machine. “I was motivated by the significant cost savings and also the non-polluting nature of wind power. After looking at several suppliers, I decided to purchase the Evance R9000 turbine due to its reputation for reliability, being
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made in Britain and the recommendation by neighbouring farmers,” said Mr Fox. The Evance R9000 turbines, on 18m towers, were installed in March this year. “The whole project went according to plan from the planning permission process to installation”. “Overall we are really pleased with the results and from a business perspective we are excited about the prospect of the turbines reducing our energy costs by nearly 50%.” “During the last few years farmers have had to look seriously at the overheads of running a farm, and like many, reducing energy costs was top of the list for me. I can honestly say it has really changed my views on energy in a positive way and it feels good that we are supporting the environment. That’s why we are hoping for lots of windy weather!” concluded Mr Fox.
Agricultural businesses benefit by harnessing the power of wind Installing wind turbines can earn money and make you greener. armers can reap huge benefits from the newest small wind turbine to complete certification for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Feed-In Tariff (FIT) scheme. As well as being eco-friendly it will save money on energy bills and earn an income. The certified Kestrel e400nb can produce 3,922kWh annually, and with the FIT scheme paying 28p per kWh produced, you can earn £1,098 per year. It is verified by design to be a class one small wind turbine which means it has withstood 156mph winds making it ideal for the windiest UK cities. Conducted by MCS Certification (MCS) on behalf of the UK Government, it focuses on ensuring the quality of renewable technology installations and products. Solid returns from renewable energy, new technology and improved Government incentives, makes it easier to become less reliant on fossil fuels.â⇔ Commented Kestrel Director Leon Gouws. The UK Government's target for 20 per cent of the
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energy to be produced from renewable sources by 2020, and the certification process means people can support this vision, with knowledge their turbine is robust enough to withstand the toughest of winds, and is reliable to ensure consistent energy production. The Kestrel 3.5kW small wind turbines are ideal for homes or small businesses with the available space for installation. Tested by TUV NEL in East Kilbride, Scotland, the small wind turbine was tested and withstands winds of 156.6mph. The small wind turbines can be used both on and off the grid, and also can be part of a water pumping system. A quick science lesson Electricity produced by the turbine is processed by an electronic inverter and fed into the grid. The property is then preferentially supplied by wind power, and any shortfall during peak demand is supplied by the grid. The result is that your energy bill is reduced by the amount of wind energy that is harvested. Your chosen installer will be able to recommend your potential energy production, earnings and return on investment using your property's co-ordinates. For further information visit www.kestrelwind.co.za or www.microgenerationcertification. org.
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| Energy
Please quote FM11 when enquiring
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| Energy
Wind turbine completed in Lincolnshire Construction has been completed on North East Lincolnshire’s first 500kW wind turbine which has been erected on a farm close to Grimsby. he turbine, which stands 50 metres from ground to hub and has a 54 metre rotor diameter, has been built by farmers and property developers M F Strawson Ltd in Great Coates. The turbine will provide a long term energy solution (20 years) to the business. The construction of the turbine is part of the farmers’ commitment to produce energy from renewable sources. Great attention to detail was given as part of the feasibility, planning, and construction process to minimise the impact on local residents and businesses.
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“M F Strawson Ltd is a family owned business integrating traditional farming and land management with property development. It is run by the two brothers from the farm offices at Pyewipe Farm and was formed over 70 years ago by their grandfather.” Paul Strawson, director of M F Strawson Ltd comments “We are a traditional farm business that has been established in the region for
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around 70 years. We wanted to secure our long term energy production at a time when future energy resources are looking increasingly uncertain. We received very few objections to the project which allowed us to push ahead with the development and reduce our carbon footprint.” Chartered surveyors and renewable energy consultants Fisher German dealt with the stakeholder consultation, planning and turbine procurement process. Darren Edwards, partner at the firm, comments “We faced many development challenges along the way due primarily to this being a groundbreaking project within North East Lincolnshire. I am delighted to have worked with M F Strawson Ltd on this project and to have enhanced their green credentials as a longstanding business in the area.” M F Strawson Ltd is a family owned business integrating traditional farming and land management with property development. It is run by the two brothers from the farm offices at Pyewipe Farm and was formed over 70 years ago by their grandfather. The company farms and concentrates its activities in the East Midlands area and has completed a number of development schemes across the region. The
wind turbine has been chosen to offset the electricity use of both the farming and property development businesses.
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| Energy
Cornwall Farmers launches green energy range Cornwall Farmers has launched a range of green energy products available through its network of 13 Country Stores across Devon and Cornwall. he agricultural co-operative has teamed up with Barnstaple-based Earth Elements, one of the leading providers of renewable energy technologies in the South West, to launch CF Renewable Energies. CF Renewable Energies is offering small scale wind turbines, solar energy, biomass, LED lighting and heat pump systems to domestic and commercial customers via Cornwall Farmers’ store network. The partnership combines the strengths of Earth Elements' expertise in the renewables industry with Cornwall Farmers’ 90 years of experience serving the farming and rural community in Devon and Cornwall. Cornwall Farmers’ chief executive Simon Birch said: “Earth Elements is a natural fit for Cornwall Farmers and means we can offer our
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customers a full range of green energy products and know-how through our network of Country Stores, which is the biggest in Devon and Cornwall.” Pete Collingswood, who founded Earth Elements with fellow director Chris Lenehan, said: “This exciting partnership will bring the rural communities in the South West an opportunity to get expert advice and access a range of technologies to save money, generate income and reduce carbon emissions.” On-farm and domestic energy generation is becoming increasingly popular as the cost of technology continues to fall and people take advantage of green energy tariffs from the Government. CF Renewable Energies was officially launched with the opening of a showroom at Cornwall Farmers’ country store in Launceston,
Success in renewables New event to help businesses overcome complexities of renewables. usinesses with renewable projects in the pipeline can get expert assistance to help turn their vision into a commercial success at an upcoming event in Leeds. Success in Renewables is hosted by the low-carbon expert company CO2Sense, which has invested over £11m in renewable projects in the north. The event is principally sponsored by Addleshaw Goddard and is taking place on 29th November at the Queens Hotel in Leeds. By attending the event, developers of renewable projects can learn about the different channels of renewable energy investment and gain an understanding of which option will help them achieve their business objectives. This is the only event in the north to explore renewable energy investment options in such detail. Key note speaker is Alasdair Grainger, head of feed-in-tariff at Department of Energy and Climate Change, who will discuss the policy landscape and future of government incentives. Delegates will also hear from financial and legal experts and from businesses about how they financed their current projects. It will also feature a ‘Question Time’ style paneldiscussion. The event will also focus on the technical aspects of wind, biomass and anaerobic digestion during an in-depth round-table session. Jemma Benson, principal consultant at CO2Sense, says
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“The benefits of developing renewable projects are crystal clear. Investing in renewable energy is an extremely effective way to reduce a business’s energy bills and generate a healthy return on investment. However, turning a renewable energy plan into reality is far more complex. Securing planning permission is only the first step and many businesses find that the hardest part is financing and installing the project. “Through this event we aim to unlock the barriers by providing access to industry experts with extensive experience of turning renewables into a success”. Richard Goodfellow, partner at Addleshaw Goddard, says: “"This region has huge renewables potential, but a key blocker remains presenting projects in a form that investors want to invest in. There are also a lot of sources of finance in the market and a key part of what the day will do is explain how to access that finance" The event is taking place from 09:00 – 16:00 on 29th November at The Queens Hotel, City Square, Leeds, LS1 1PJ. Tickets are priced at £60+VAT and includes lunch and refreshments. To book please visit www.co2sense.co.uk/events. A limited number of free places are available for community groups, charities and farmers, to find out more please contact Emily Reid on 0845 872 0102 or email emily.reid@co2sense.co.uk
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and the products are available through all its stores. For more information call 01271 570049, or alternatively, you can send us an email at renewable.energies@cornwallfarmers.co.uk
German expertise 3-MW Biogas plant built in Uraguay. milk powder producer from Uruguay has engaged WELTEC BIOPOWER for the construction of a 3-MW biogas plant. The building work at the site north of Montevideo will begin in January 2013. In the first development stage, WELTEC will set up an 800kWel plant. The full output of 3 MW is to be installed by 2015. Due to factors such as the high requirement profile and the needed quality standards for the production of the milk dry matter, the contract was awarded to WELTEC BIOPOWER. The customer has commissioned the setup of two stainless-steel fermenters with a capacity of 5,000 m³ each. Moreover, WELTEC provides the client with a high degree of international experience and flexibility in scaling plants, also in the industrial range. Of course, WELTEC also attracted the Latin American investor‘s attention with large biomethane parks it constructed, such as the one in Könnern, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The entrepreneur, who produces its milk products for the Asian market, will also run the biogas plant. He will be able to use the electricity as well as the accumulated exhaust heat in his manufacturing and packaging processes. With his 8,000-odd dairy cows and the feed production, he covers significant parts of the entire value chain. As the establishment of the subsequent development stages of the biogas plant is to be accompanied by an increase in the number of dairy cows to approximately 14,000, there will be enough cow manure as substrate
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for the plant. All in all, the agricultural industry in Uruguay has a huge potential in the field of raw material for the production of bioenergy. What is more, it plays a key role in the national economy, contributing almost 10 percent to the gross domestic product of the country with its population of 3.5 million. Currently, Uruguay‘s primary energy needs are still being covered by crude oil. However, at least half of the energy consumption is to be covered by renewable sources by 2015. For this reason, the government in Montevideo has formulated the goal of using at least one third of the agricultural waste for the generation of energy. The legal framework conditions for this goal were established in 2010: Until 2030, a feed-in tariff is to ensure a plant population with a capacity of 200 MW. Since mid2010, the operators have been able to feed in the green power into the grid of the state energy provider UTE or sell it directly to UTE. Due to the growing need for energy, the climate goals, and the desired independence from energy imports, Uruguay‘s energy policy focuses on a broad energy mix and the involvement of domestic energy resources. The implementation of these strategies in conjunction with the investmentfriendly environment offers experienced enterprises like WELTEC BIOPOWER favourable operating conditions. The project could serve as a reference example for the country as well as the continent as a whole.
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| Grain
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November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 53
| Poultry
And the winner is.... Finalists chosen for Pfizer Poultry Trainee of Year Award. wo of the poultry industry’s most promising young workers from Shropshire and Suffolk have been chosen as finalists competing for the 2012 Pfizer Poultry Trainee of the Year Award. The award, which recognises ability, enthusiasm and commitment to training, is sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health in conjunction with the magazine Poultry World and for the first time the British Poultry Council. The
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winner, who will receive a £2000 training grant, will be announced at the BPC annual awards presentation event at the House of Commons on December 4. The finalists were chosen by a judging panel comprising Philip Clarke, editor of Poultry World; Richard Griffiths, senior executive officer of BPC; John Newton, senior poultry consultant of ADAS, and Stuart Andrews, poultry technical manager for Pfizer. The finalists are:
New co-ordinator for KellyBronze Farmers scheme Nicola has more than 10 years experience in business administration. icola Tremain has been appointed co-ordinator for the KellyBronze Farmers franchise scheme which enables farmers to develop a new seasonal enterprise that benefits from the reputation of the premium Christmas turkey. Nicola joined Kelly Turkeys at their Danbury, Chelmsford, office last year and takes over from Maiken Haaden who has retired after running the franchise since 2006. She has more than 10 years experience working in business administration, most
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recently with a building control company at Chelmsford. She lives at Danbury and as a keen rider is a member of the East Essex hunt. The KellyBronze franchise scheme was established in 1994 and now involves farmers in most areas of the country, providing a locally produced supply of the award-winning turkeys. This year four new farmers have joined the scheme and newcomers can now have their birds processed regionally rather than on the farm.
Greg Pennington Greg Pennington began working part-time for Oaklands Farm Eggs at Telford In Shropshire while at school, then started full-time four years ago in pullet rearing. Last year he became responsible for managing several rearing units, then moved to the unit at Harper Adams University College at Newport where 66,000 hens live in enriched colonies. He is researching their behaviour and performance through the 24hour cycle and comparing this with hens in a barn system at Oaklands. He has now secured a place at Harper Adams to begin a degree in agriculture. Elwyn Griffiths, financial and technical director of Oaklands Farm Eggs, said winning the award would reward Greg for the hours he’d put into research as well as providing a great boost of confidence.
Expert masterclass KFC businessman and US governor to inspire young poultry professionals. business entrepreneur who built KFC into an international success will share his expertise with some of Britain’s most promising young poultry professionals. John Young Brown Jr, who has also served as Governor of Kentucky, will be talking to 20 delegates on the Poultry Industry Programme, a joint initiative by the NFU and ABN. Mr Brown bought the worldfamous chicken restaurant chain from its founder Colonel Sanders in 1964 before selling off for a large profit seven years later. He is expected to give advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur and how to take a local product to global markets. Programme lead and broiler producer Kinsey Hern said: “You don’t get much more successful in
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Rachel Almey Rachel Almey started in the Vion Food Group’s poultry processing plant at Eye, Suffolk, in 2009 after working in several jobs including a garage. She became a supervisor but realised her real interest was with chickens on the farm. After a period on broiler farm at Foulden in west Norfolk, she was given the opportunity to manage one of Vion’s oldest farms at Laxfield in Suffolk. She made an immediate impression, breaking the company’s record for performance with her first flock. “Rachel does not miss anything and this is what makes her such an exceptional farm manager,” said Werner Strydom, Vion’s regional broiler manager. If successful, she would like to pursue her interest in bird welfare and learn more about genetics and the veterinary side of the business.
the chicken meat industry than what Mr Brown did in turning KFC into such a global brand, and one which is still hugely successful today. “His immense business acumen is sure to rub off on those taking part in the course and we hope they will learn a lot and be inspired.” The son of a US congressman, Mr Brown has also owned several professional basketball teams and worked with country and music star Kenny Rogers to set up another chicken restaurant. The Poultry Industry Programme will run over seven months and aims to give delegates a more in-depth insight into the poultry meat and egg sectors, in the hope of creating future industry leaders
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| Grain
Moroccan millers and buyers given wheat update HGCA has visited Moroccan millers and wheat buyers to give them an update on the coming season as well as to check out future opportunities. CE, HGCA’S export arm, which aims to stimulate the demand for wheat grown in the UK, visited Casablanca to update millers and buyers on the UK market, where they also presented in French, as part of their Outward Missions programme. The group, made up of farmers and traders, and supported by the British Embassy also visited Moroccan biscuit manufacturer Bimo - to present on the latest data on uks wheat. The delegation then went to Casablanca mill Moulins du Maghreb to talk with millers about specifications and varieties, and also visited First Foods in Morocco milling around 2,000 tonnes per day, and which imports 1Mt of wheat a year. George Forbes, BCE Chairman, said: “We have been coming to Casablanca for five years, it is a very important market for our uks wheat variety, as biscuit and cake consumption is increasing here, and there is a demand for it. Of the total wheat imported typically 60 to 70% is used for standard/blending flour, and 7 to 8% for biscuit flour, which is huge, considering that uks can be used for blending. “By coming here as an independent body we make sure everyone is up to date with the crop situation in the UK. In a year such as 2012 where we are struggling with quality it is important to be honest and maintain relations with millers so they know we are still a potential source of wheat for next year.”
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For the first time plant breeder Julie Seekings joined the mission to talk to millers about soft milling wheat and the methods used by the industry and breeders to help predict biscuit quality. She flagged up the importance of needing to understand the requirements of the miller. Nick Burchell, from the BCE Committee spoke to delegates about the 2014 crop, although too early to predict, he told Moroccan milers that more “very promising” varieties are in the pipeline. He also talked about the specifications for milling wheat and feed wheat. Dozens of delegates were also told about the success of last year’s BCE’s Bread Baking Workshop, where Moroccan millers come to the UK each February and use uks to bake their national bread. The BCE mini-site was also shown to delegates, who can use the French tailored website to access market updates and information on exporters in the UK. Delegate Rachid Chamcham, Director of Production at Moulins Du Maghreb, said: “In Morocco there is a market place for the biscuit industry, and it is quickly gathering speed, but our weakness is that we don’t have a wheat that is soft and we sometimes have to add protein to adapt it. Uks wheats are more apt to meet the needs of the biscuit makers, which is why we should work closely together, and why we need events like this.” Morocco has 80 large industrial mills most of
which are concentrated in urban areas such as Casablanca, Rabat and Fes. In recent years, the UK has made significant progress capturing a share of the Moroccan biscuit and bread market. In 2010/11 48,500 tonnes of UK wheat was exported to Morocco and 25,000 tonnes in 2011/12. BCE have also visited millers in Madrid, Spain and Porto, Portugal earlier this month, and will go to Algeria on 26 to 27 November. The event took place on 17 – 18 October. For more information on BCE visit www.hgca.com/BCE
Jonathan Lane, Gleadell’s trading manager, comments on grain markets.. arket continues to firm as declining crop prospects in Australia and Argentina provide underlying fundamentals to support the market. Egypt reentered the market yesterday for end December shipment and, surprisingly, enough Russian wheat was purchased along with French and Romanian. However, this may be just about the last we see of the Russians for a while. The appearance of Russian wheat and news that the Ukraine
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may be ’softening’ its position on a wheat export ban may raise eyebrows and provide the bears (if any are left), with a ray of hope! Little has changed regarding the UK situation, with the import pace set to increase as more UK Millers switch away from UK supplies due to quality issues. After harvest delays this season, and adverse weather conditions, growers are attempting to increase the pace of winter sowings which may extend the planting window
into December and beyond. For the moment a big question mark hangs over the extent of UK wheat plantings for 2013 . Prices for the 2013 harvest have also risen, supported by the expectation of lower UK plantings, by the rise in old crop values and concerns over dry conditions in the US. Plantings are behind the pace in mainland Europe, although in Russia and the Ukraine the winter sowing campaign is almost complete, with higher
expected acreage. Old crop fundamentals should support higher values, but at already high prices, any demand rationing may invoke profit-taking. 2013/2014 could provide the world with a crop back on the scale of a few seasons ago, something that the world is in need of, but a repeat of this year’s crop size would surely ignite the blue touch paper.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 55
| Arable
BCPC Weed Review highlights technology solutions to compensate for product losses Over 80 delegates attended the 49th BCPC Annual Weed Review chaired by Dr Gordon Anderson-Taylor, Bayer CropScience, and held at PGRO, Peterborough on 24 October. The Review addressed technology solutions for product losses. espite the various regulatory challenges, loss of herbicides and ongoing build-up of resistance to current products the presentations made at this meeting demonstrated a range of innovative approaches being taken to address all of these critical issues,” said Gordon. “Weed control remains one of the most important factors to maintain sustainable food supplies and our landscape environment, and whilst a somewhat neglected area for funded practical research, both researchers and the industry in general are clearly investigating and in some cases adopting new technological approaches in order to ensure that we can maintain adequate control of weeds in the future.” Peter Lutman, Rothamsted Research set the scene by assessing the weather conditions affecting farming during the 2011/2012 season. Drought and poor performance from preemergence herbicides caused problems with weed control in the autumn. Although the spring started well, a cold, wet April meant early sown crops failed to grow and slugs were abundant. With cool wet weather continuing into June and July this affected crop growth and grain set. Peter assessed current funded research projects on weeds and weed control. “Only a very few substantial projects are now being carried out, funding is limited, there is no long-term strategy for projects and about 30% is shortterm work being done by PhD students,” he said. “It is now time for us to consider how we get more strategic funding into weed research.” The review then considered a completely different approach to weed control in oilseed rape with the recently introduced ‘Clearfield’ Production System. “Here we use high yielding herbicide tolerant
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hybrid seeds which have the ability to resist certain herbicide modes of action not otherwise used in rape,” explains Jon Williams, BASF. “Rather than a preemergence / post-emergence programme, this programme uses one application of a metazachlor plus imazamox product plus an adjuvant, post-emergence up to growth stage 18.” “This has great benefits as it shifts the timing of application away from the really busy time on farm, it also plays a key role in good establishment of oilseed rape,” says Jon. “More importantly, it targets emerged weeds and offers excellent control with the broadest weed spectrum, including cruciferous weeds, compared to current herbicide standards. It is critical that the metazachlor plus imazamox product is only used on Clearfield hybrids and it is also important that best practice is adopted in rotational management to minimise seed losses.” There is concern over the potential risk of water contamination from some key active ingredients for weed control in oilseed rape. Ron Stobart, NIAB TAG, outlined a project that evaluates a new approach using carefully-directed control methods between crop rows. Using simple shielding and guidance systems plots were treated inter-row with glyphosate using a narrow nozzle. Trials were also done integrating inter-row treatments with an overrow selective application. This delivered excellent weed control between and within the rows with little or no crop damage. “The results have been encouraging and no impact on yield has been seen in our studies,” says Ron. “We now need to look at width of equipment and speed of application. This is an alternative approach of controlling weeds in oilseed rape which could well be considered for other products
56 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
used inter-row.” Bracken covers an area of about 1.5m ha in the UK. It causes problems not just to agriculture by taking out grazing, but it also obstructs footpaths, harbours ticks and disease and creates a monoculture threatening biodiversity. The bracken’s underground extensive rhizome system is the biggest problem, sending up new fronds. “The current control system comprises a two-stage process,” explains Simon Thorp from The Heather Trust. “Primary control is to spray asulam by helicopter with a followup treatment using hand lances in the second year. Asulam is unique in terms of its selectivity for bracken and that it can be sprayed from the air but due to concerns about the impact on water and the environment it failed to gain approval after appeal in September 2011 – the end of the use-up period is 31 December 2012.” “Leaving bracken to run rampant is just not an option,” says Simon. “Alternative control options are ground based spraying; weed wiping; cutting; crushing; low level equilibrium grazing and biological control methods but asulam has always been very effective in providing long-term control. We hope that the formation of The Bracken Control group will help raise awareness of the threat posed by bracken and that there will be sufficient support to enable the continued supply of asulam products from the start of 2013 until re-registration of the product can be achieved in the future.” 2011/2012 has been a particularly difficult season with thick stands of black-grass being seen around the country. Lack of control has been attributed to tough environmental conditions and increasing resistance. “The bad news is that resistance does not go away,” warned Richard
Hull, Rothamsted Research. “The good news is that there are things that can be done. Delaying drilling for example has been shown to give a 39% reduction in blackgrass plants. Results from spring cropping are even more significant, reducing plant numbers by 88%. The main thing is to assess your black-grass problem and know what works on your farm”. A session on bio-herbicides concluded the Review. “We have an interest in finding bio-rational solutions for controlling weeds between rows and in organic preplanting/drilling weed management,” explained Emma Garrod from Produce World, leading grower of fresh vegetables. “Hand weeding options are very labour intensive and costly so engineering application systems and bioherbicides are the best solution for our farming business.” Lynn Tatnell, ADAS Boxworth went on to explain a new research project SCEPTRE (Sustainable Crop & Environmental Protection – Targeted Research for Edibles). “The aim of the project is to fill the gap from the loss of actives, identify crop safe actives and develop sustainable integrated pest management systems,” explained Lynn. “We found that perennial weeds are particularly challenging to bio-herbicides; however, from the pot work trials, one or two products look very promising. We will extend the work into field trials next year with repeated applications and also look at bacteria based products and mixtures.”
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Arable
Late drilled oilseed rape needs nutritional boost Many late-sown oilseed rape crops could benefit from a micronutrient boost this year to enhance growth, rooting and photosynthesis, suggests ProCam UK Agronomy Manager Nick Myers. any winter oilseed rape crops are quite backward and relatively small compared to last year,” he says. “A bit of extra help in creating a good rooting system and the optimum plant structure could really benefit future yields.” Zinc ammonium acetate growth promoters have been shown to increase root vigour, root mass and root length by increasing auxin production and they also increase chlorophyll concentration in the leaves, stimulating photosynthetic activity. “These products would be particularly helpful this year in backward crops on lighter soils and in later drilled crops and should be applied between 2 and
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6 true leaves of the crop, with the optimum being 4 true leaves.” Phosphites (PO³), have also been shown to stimulate root growth and mass by increasing the number of root hairs. “Struggling crops need support to establish a strong root structure. As well as improving root development, phosphites also stimulate the plants ability to scavenge nutrients more efficiently from the soil and improve overall plant health and vigour.” Best results come from using them in a programme starting with an autumn application followed by follow-up treatments at stem extension and flowering, Nick Myers says. “An additional benefit from
phosphites is that they have a positive effects on downy mildew through promoting the plants’ own defence mechanisms by stimulating phytoallexin production. “Downy mildew is at high levels this year and can be easily found on cotyledons or first true leaves. Backward crops with this disease will benefit at more than one level – disease control, root enhancement and increased vigour.” A multi-micronutrient product containing boron, magnesium, sulphur, nitrogen and molybdenum can also enhance crop growth. “Flowering structures are laid down in oilseed rape in the
autumn and the plant needs to be supplied with sufficient boron to help this process. Ideal timing is when the crop is between 4 to 8 leaves.” Nick points out that any of these three nutrient products can be mixed with other inputs such as graminicides for volunteer control or Phoma fungicides, making their application more easily justified. For more information contact ProCam on 01763 261592 or visit www.procam.co.uk
Light leaf spot fungicide trials’ results available Fungicide performance results for light leaf spot are now available from HGCA. November is an important month for monitoring this disease and spraying if risk is high. ight leaf spot has become more prevalent in England in recent years and this is set to continue according to Rothamsted Research. If the disease was well established on farm before harvest in 2012 then there is a there is a high risk of further problems in 2013. HGCA fungicide performance trials, which started in 2009, show that good control of light leaf spot is difficult to achieve. Azoles are the leading fungicides but reduced sensitivity to these products may
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be affecting performance. There have been some differences between products and prothioconazole remains leading active. Product choice will also be affected by the need for plant growth regulation and phoma treatment. The trials showed no improvement in control with more than half dose rate application so high doses are unlikely to improve control. There are prospects for improving control by better timing as many crops are treated when
the disease is already well established. Growers should spray in autumn at high-risk sites. After the autumn treatment growers should inspect crops for light leaf spot regularly on a field-by-field basis. If phoma sprays are being used, check crops in winter and early spring to determine if the sprays have given adequate control of light leaf spot. Before stem extension in spring, apply fungicide as soon as light leaf spot is found. The findings
also suggest that during the early stem extension stage growers should spray when 15% of plants are affected. The full summary report of this research is available at www.hgca.com Full details of fungicide performance in oilseed rape, wheat and barley are being presented at the Agronomists’ Conference in Peterborough on 11 December. For more information visit www.hgca.com/events
Nitrate warning as new NVZ map looms Farmers are being urged to act now to avoid the risk of falling foul of planned changes to the Nitrate Variable Zone (NVZ) map. he map, which shows the 59% of the country where strict rules on the use of nitrates apply, was re-drawn in the summer. It comes into force from 1 January 2013 and will affect the majority of English farms – some for the first time. Farms within an NVZ must observe restrictions on the quantity of fertiliser and farm yard manure that can be spread and the times of year it can be spread in order to prevent nitrate pollution to water supplies. Strict rules apply to recordkeeping and reporting to ensure farms can prove to Defra exactly what they have used on their fields
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and when. Failure to comply with the new reporting regulations could result in fines or even prosecution. Nigel Parsons, MD of rural software specialist Landmark Systems, said: “Farmers who have land within an NVZ are required to keep detailed records of all fertilisers and manures applied to land and they must be in a position to present that information to the authorities on demand. “This can be a complex and time-consuming operation, particularly when you take into account the need to calculate average application strengths over the course of a year, and farmers
are advised to consider using software which is specifically designed to capture and present NVZ data.” The potential administration costs of the revised scheme are significant. For livestock farmers new to an NVZ area, for example, they have been estimated at £8.70 per hectare for year 1 falling to £3.75 per hectare in subsequent years. Further costs are likely to be incurred because of new rules on the storage of slurry. Chris Spiby, who runs a 500 strong dairy herd in Chichester, said: “Farmers like myself who are going to find themselves under the new NVZ regime really need to
think hard about what the new regulations mean for them. “The administration costs are huge and the penalties for getting it wrong are extremely serious. We have also calculated that it could cost us up to £200,000 to ensure our storage complies with the regulations. “Now is the time for farmers to ensure that their recording systems are in place and operating to provide correct information.”
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 57
| Anniversary
Sixteen years in print Farming Monthly National forges ahead through good times, bad times and the end of the world...
h those pesky Mayans. If you believe their prophecy then don't bother getting ready for next season. December 21st will supposedly be the end of the world - so drop everything, sell the farm and head off on that cruise of a lifetime. More seriously, it's felt like the end of the world on a number of occasions in recent times: foot & mouth, avian flu, TB and biblical weather...it's all been happening and we've always survived it. The deepest recession since the Second World War is not helping matters for anyone and climate change sits on our very doorstep. The unprecedented wet weather has brought chaos to many of our readers - losing crops and losing time. I don't think I've spoken to one farmer locally who isn't well behind schedule for this time of year. It's certainly no bed of roses at the moment. Input prices rise, returns
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plunge lower - I'd better stop there as it's all getting far too depressing. Sixteen years on in our publishing history and whatever the current problems may be, the world seems to trundle on relentlessly. Is it me or does time seem to be steadily speeding up? There's never enough of it these days as one year seems to merge into the next, forever meeting one deadline and chasing the next. But there is always a positive side to every dark story. We have gained new readers, visited more shows and forged more new relationships and partnerships this year than ever before. And we'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support, both readers and advertisers alike, because without you...well, you know the score. And when all said and done, somehow I've got a strange feeling that we'll be here the
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same time next year celebrating 17 years in print and thanking our readers and advertisers for their support over the years and wishing them every success as we look to the future. So your copy of Farming Monthly National will continue to drop on your mat...and you, valued reader, won't be taking that cruise. Let’s call it a prediction. Andrew Poulton (Editor)
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Forestry
Government restricts imports of ash trees to tackle disease Restrictions on the importation of ash trees into Great Britain to combat chalara dieback of ash are being imposed with immediate effect, Owen Paterson, Environment Secretary in the UK Government, has announced. he disease, caused by the fungus Chalara fraxinea (C. Fraxinea), leads to leaf loss and tree death. It has already affected trees in England and Scotland, and killed trees in parts of mainland Europe. A consultation which ended last Friday showed strong support for import restrictions and action to prevent the disease spreading. Movement restrictions within Great Britain will also be imposed, so that ash trees, plants and seeds may not be moved to other places in Great Britain. The restrictions are being put in place before the main tree planting season gets under way in late November. Dr John Morgan, Head of the Forestry Commission's Plant health Service, welcomed the move, saying, "This is a sensible precaution to protect Britain from further introductions and internal spread of the disease while we assess the overall situation. "We and our colleagues in the Food & Environment Agency (Fera) and the Scottish Government plant health team have stepped up our efforts to tackle this disease. For example, we have redeployed all our woodland officer staff in East Anglia to survey the region for signs of infection after infected trees in established woodland were found there. "I would once again urge woodland managers and other tree professionals to familiarise themselves with the symptoms illustrated on our website, inspect
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their ash trees frequently for signs of ill health, and report any suspicious cases to us. "I am encouraged that although awareness of Chalara dieback has been high among these groups, we have received very few reports of ill health in ash trees in the wider natural environment." The legislation prohibits: * all imports of ash plants, trees and seeds into Great Britain except from officially designated pest-free areas (areas declared free of C. fraxinea) until further notice. No such areas have been designated to date; * all movements of ash plants, trees and seeds within Great Britain until further notice (in the absence of officially designated pest-free areas in Great Britain); * movement within Great Britain of logs and firewood from sites with confirmed C. fraxinea infection which have been served with a Statutory Plant Health Notice; The following activities are permitted to continue: * importation from European Union countries of logs, woodchips and firewood, which pose a very low risk of disease transmission, especially when they are kiln dried. In the unlikely event that this material is found to contain infection, action such as destruction will be ordered; * movements within Great Britain of sawn ash timber, which poses a very low risk of disease transmission; and * importation of sawn ash timber from certain countries
under existing regulations against the forestry pest emerald ash borer, provided such material originates from a pest-free area for emerald ash borer. These regulations require the material to be accompanied by official phytosanitary (plant health) certificates declaring that the material either originated in areas
known to be free of EAB, or that the wood is bark-free (which addresses the Chalara risk as well) before entering Great Britain. Further information, including a pictorial guide to symptoms and videos about the disease, is available at www.forestry.gov.uk/chalara.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 59
| Groundcare
Reclaimed wood cheaper, Autumn leaf clearance eco- friendly and suitable C for a wide range of farming usage
When leaves start to fall and pile up on the ground they can be a real chore for home and land owners.
A social enterprise is offering farmers and smallholdings reclaimed wood at cheap prices which is suitable for a variety of uses.
t Albans Wood Recycling in Hertfordshire collects unwanted wood from building projects over a 30-mile radius, denails it and sell it to to farmers and others needing wood at a competitive price. The wood available comes in a range of sizes from 2x2” through to 4x2” for posts and joists and plywood and other sheet materials are also stocked. Pallets are also available free of charge, which can be put to a variety of uses including firewood and using as bases for storage. The project also produces a large quantity of firewood suitable for wood-burning stoves. Geoff Deans, 48, founded the not-for-profit business in 2008 after quitting a City career, and it became an independent Community Interest Company in 2010. He said the wood the project sells costs around half the price for similar wood from local timber merchants. “At the end of the day, farmers just want wood that does the job. The wood we provide is obviously reclaimed so it will have nails holes and signs of wear and tear but it’s sound timber well-
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learing leaves off the lawn prevents suffocation, letting it rest and breathe for a healthy spring; and whilst leaving them on beds and borders can eventually create useful mulch, they make an unsightly and slippery mess on yards, driveways, pavements and paths. So what is the best way to clear fallen leaves in areas where you don’t want them to pile up? For a real work-out use a manual rake, or spend a satisfying couple of hours with a leaf blower or vac. Powered leaf blowers and vacuums relieve the strain of clearing drives, pathways and lawns, and the latest STIHL range makes seasonal leaf clearance an absolute breeze. Each STIHL blower offers its own distinct benefits and with a choice of petrol, electric or battery power there is a model to suit most budgets and scales of task. The STIHL blower range includes handy handheld models plus powerful backpack machines which are ideally suited to larger scale clear-ups around farms, streets and parks. More quality clearers from
STIHL include a choice of petrol and electric handheld vacuum shredders which collect masses of leaves in no time at all. Each vacuum model is truly versatile and can be used as both a vacuum and blower thanks to the choice of tubes supplied as standard. What sets these vacuums truly apart is their shredding capability; reducing gathered leaves finely as they are gathered up maximises the volume of material in the large catcher bag and means it is all ready for composting or mulch. Lawn clearance One of the quickest and easiest ways to clear leaves off a lawn is to simply run over them with a lawn mower. The lawn mower must have good suction power and be a collecting model (with a box or bag). VIKING collect lawn mowers and lawn tractors for example, are ideal for the task thanks to their impressive suction performance. Visit the STIHL website : www.stihl.co.uk for more practical advice plus handy composting tips to help turn leaves into gardeners’ gold.
seasoned timber with a lot of life left. It’s also eco-friendly and a offers farming businesses great savings, which as we all know is pretty important in the current climate,” said Geoff. St Albans Wood Recycling operates by collecting waste wood from the construction industry and other producers of wood waste to help reduce the amount needlessly going to landfill. The wood is sorted and anything reusable is sold to the community at affordable prices. The wood is also made into products such as simple furniture, planters, wood ornaments or other products which are sold in the wood shop, based on-site and at Scallydogs on the city’s Hatfield Road. Timber that cannot be reused is sold as firewood or gets chipped for use as biofuel. Geoff also provides work, learning and training opportunities to those facing barriers to gaining paid employment and for people who enjoy working with wood. The business works with local agencies such as the CVS, job centre restart schemes and the probation service to provide work experience, learning and training opportunities.
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www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Groundcare
Oregon’s breakthrough cordless chainsaw helps farmers save time Claims a number of advantages over traditional models. lount, the world's largest manufacturer of saw chain, announces the launch of the OREGON® CS250 36V Cordless Chainsaw, the world’s only chainsaw with integrated PowerSharp® chain sharpening system. When the chain dulls, it is sharpened by simply pulling the PowerSharp® lever for 3 to 5 seconds. No need to ever cut with a dull chain again. Oregon chose 36V Lithium Ion batteries as the power source due to the inherent advantages over petrol or corded electric saws; Cordless battery saws are much quieter in-use, feature lower vibration levels and do not emit the fumes that petrol saws do. There is no fuel to mix or to store or to transport around in a vehicle, all important considerations for any user at home or work. The high-capacity 2.4ah battery in the CS250 and its 14” bar allow it to power through logs up to 12” diameter, deliver no-fade power throughout the job and cut up to 250 branches on a single charge**.
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A PREMIER supplier of
With high power, instant starting and instant sharpening, it is the only chain saw that is truly “Always Ready”. Product Features: • Built-in PowerSharp® precision chain sharpening system • 36V* (40 volts maximum) – high-capacity 2.4ah lithium ion battery pack • 14-inch bar length • TUV safety certified Saw Kit Includes: 36V* Chainsaw, 14-in Guide Bar, PowerSharp® Chain, Lithium-Ion Endurance Battery Pack and Charger – £395inc. VAT For more information please visit www.oregoncordless.com and www.oregonchain.co.uk
Find your nearest dealer at: Love Lane Industrial Estate Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 1YG 01285 652 272
White House Farm Spencers Wood Reading Berkshire RG7 1HR 01189 884 888
Henwood Road, Henwood Ind. Est. Ashford, Kent, TN24 8DH 01233 619 290
STOCKIST OF OREGON® PRODUCTS OREGON® CORDLESS DEMO MACHINE AVAILABLE
NE Lincolnshire - 01472 825328 - ldlawnmowers.co.uk
Small Engine Services GROUNDCARE AND GARDEN MACHINERY DEALERS Lodge Farm, Broughton Road, Frolesworth, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 5EH Tel: 01455 202639 - Fax: 01455 202566 www.sharnfordhorticultural.co.uk
SES Garden Machinery Ltd, 4 Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0DA TEL: 01249 824944 t FAX: 01249 248487 www.small-engine-services.co.uk
GARDEN MACHINERY AND TRAILER CENTRE ESTABLISHED 1987
Honeydon Road, Colmworth, Bedfordshire MK44 2LY
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Tel. 01234 376513 Fax. 01234 378157 www.bri-ag.co.uk
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 61
| ATV
Slug it out on a TGB! ATV & electro-broadcaster package on offer. e imagine that like us, you are probably well and truly fed up of the weather and of what miserably passed as a British summer this year. There will be no respite moving into autumn and winter this time round and to make matters worse, the sheer amount of moisture on the ground has bought out some very unwelcome visitors. The most disgusting of terrestrial gastropods. The archnemesis of many a farmer’s crop and gardeners vegetable patch. The leaver of horrid shiny trails all over our beautifully manicured lawns. Yes that’s right. Slugs. But fear not! TQC are here to the rescue with their fabulous range of ATV electro-broadcasters and in particular a very special offer. Perfect for spreading slug pellets far and wide and putting a stop to the little blighters before they get too cosy in our damp and sodden fields. They can also be great for spreading fertiliser, grass or clover seed or herbicide. To make things really easy for you, we have put together a shiny
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new package to get you off to a great start: A brand spanking new TGB 500SL IRS 4x4 and mounted Logic electro-broadcaster for just £4999 + vat. Or if you already have an ATV, we have some very competitive prices for the electrobroadcaster alone. Call us for more details and we can recommend the best product for your particular needs. With over 25 years in the ATV industry we know what we’re talking about! Don’t forget we have a great selection of ATVs and side by sides in stock including the Polaris Ranger diesel, check out our website for great end of year deals! In fact we can help you look after your land all year round, so why not take a look at our website or contact us with your requirements, we would be delighted to hear from you!www.thequadcentre.com 01280 817350
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FARR more models now available Fully road legal additions to range revealed.
ARR All-Terrain Vehicles are pleased to announce the release of 3 new models; a 300cc ATV, 400cc ATV and the all-new 400cc UTV as shown above. All of these models come as standard with a high/low range gearbox and are fully road legal. With prices starting from £3299.99 + VAT, these represent excellent value for money.
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Finance can be arranged through UK Asset Finance and is available on all machines. Please visit our website www.farruk.com or our Facebook www.facebook.com/farrquads for further information and to find your nearest dealer. Alternatively, please call our Exeter main office on 01392 444 887.
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| ATV
Get trained and wear a helmet for ATVs Agricultural workers in the South West should have proper training and wear a helmet before using quad bikes on farms and roads or risk being prosecuted, warns rural insurance firm Cornish Mutual. he insurer, which has Members across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, is highlighting the issue as part of its ‘FarmSafe’ campaign in a bid to cut the number of deaths and serious injuries from operating allterrain vehicles (ATVs). There is a legal requirement for employers to provide adequate training in the safe use of ATVs and it is now mandatory to wear appropriate safety helmets, with chinstraps and eye protection, when riding a quad bike. Cornish Mutual is also reminding farmers that it is illegal for 16-year olds with a valid tractor licence to drive either an ATV or a handler on the public highway until they reach the age of 17 and have a full licence. To drive a quad bike on a public road in the UK requires a B1 licence, as well as tax,
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insurance and registration. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), on average, two people die and more than a thousand serious injuries happen as a result of quad bike accidents every year. Cornish Mutual has handled a number of claims around ATVs in recent years and there have been some high-profile deaths and accidents in the UK involving quad bikes, young children and farm workers. Major causes include a lack of proper training, inexperience, inadequate protective clothing, excessive speed, carrying passengers, the towing of excessive loads and unsafe or unbalanced loads. Philip Wilson, business development manager for Cornish Mutual says, “Safety is a really big issue with quad bikes and they are
potentially lethal if they are not driven in the right way. They offer very little protection, so wearing a helmet is really important – helmets can prevent deaths or serious injury and are quite literally life-savers. Most accidents are the result of the vehicle actually overturning, landing on top of and crushing the driver. This can happen so quickly and easily if people are not careful.” He adds, “It’s all about education, maintenance and taking simple precautions – ATVs have very different handling techniques and characteristics to other types of vehicles, so proper training in how they are operated is vital to ensure safety at all times. “Passengers should only be carried on ATVs that are designed to carry passengers, and only when it is safe to do so. For many work activities, it would be
inappropriate to carry a passenger, even when the machine is designed to carry one, because the passenger affects the performance of the machine, the rider's ability to control the machine (particularly on slopes) and the rider's ability to work.” Cornish Mutual has now issued some guidelines for operating ATVs which include always wearing head protection, checking for the CE mark, avoid carrying passengers unless the machine is designed for this and complete pre-ride checks including tyre pressure, brakes and throttle. The firm also says manufacturer guidelines for weight, towing capacity and drawbar loading limits must always be observed. For more information about Cornish Mutual’s ‘FarmSafe’ campaign, visit www.cornishmutual.co.uk/farmsafe
Day & Coles Agricultural Ltd
Southam Agricultural Services
Newton Close, Park Farm, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Telephone: 01933 673900
Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH Telephone: 01926 813426 www.southamagriservices.co.uk
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 63
| ATV
Polaris 0% finance. There’s nothing to it. If you are in the market for an ATV or UTV look no further. olaris has announced a new interest-free finance scheme for all Polaris ATV’s and UTV’s that will run until 31st December 2012. Business users can arrange 0% finance on all new Polaris ATVs and Rangers from the 1st September through Polaris’ finance partners Rural Finance. Nothing could be easier. The scheme offers payments over 24 months at 0% up to a maximum
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80% of the Recommended Retail Price and will include an accessory subsidy of up to £1000.00, excluding VAT, on genuine Polaris accessories. Polaris is a world leader in ATV’s and Side x Side utility vehicles with the widest choice of proven AllTerrain options and accessories. The legendary Sportsman quads promise the hardest working, smoothest riding, most powerful and rugged ATVs for all
types of work, with Value, Premium and 2-up models available. The Ranger Side x Side utility vehicles with the Midsize, Full-Size and CREW offer versatility and muscle, in petrol, diesel and electric 4x4 versions. A ProSteel™ Cab for the Ranger, Polaris Winch and Lock and Ride accessories complement the hallmark Polaris features of ondemand true All-Wheel Drive and smooth ride.
As this is a limited period offer Polaris recommends contacting your nearest Polaris dealer as soon as possible for full details and any special deals available. NFU members also benefit from a special 5% discount. The availability of the 0% finance is subject to status and terms and conditions. Further information from Polaris Britain on 0800 915 6720 or visit
A trailer for all reasons Two solutions in one with Wessex RT 740. nyone with an ATV is more than likely going to need a trailer to suit the purpose. A road-going trailed, a tipper, a high sided or stock trailer will probably top the list. The Wessex ATV range of equipment offers all these with various options to suit your needs. Working in demanding or remote locations, for example, an ATV may be the only vehicle to use, but the problem is, getting it to the job. A Wessex RT 740 road legal trailer offers two solutions in one. The heavy duty tailgate doubles as a ramp and you use the trailer to transport the ATV, then attach the trailer to it when you get there
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and away you go for off-road use. There’s a hard top conversion as well for moving livestock. If you’re moving stock around on your own land the Wessex ST160 stock trailer is versatile for carrying sheep and calves, with a heavy-duty ramp tailgate which incorporates a full height door for ease of entry and exit. A removable mesh dividing gate is useful for handling ewes and lambs and the high sides fold or remove for access to livestock for inoculations. The Wessex high sided TR900 ATV trailer is ideal on the farm for hauling livestock, animal feed or fencing materials. It’s equally at home on the golf course for
64 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
transporting tools, equipment and materials, or for multi-purpose use on the private estate. When you need to tip, the TT430/TT900 trailers offer a high tipping profile for complete emptying of the trailer, with a spring assisted tip making the process effortless. The 900mm high sided option gives you greater load-carrying capacity, for
carrying bales, green waste and other bulky materials. Wessex off-road trailers feature durable galvanized construction throughout, with swivelling ball hitches for safety and bolt-on stub axles, so no bent axle headaches. Balloon tyres complete the practical advantages for off-road use. Broadwood International 01420 478111 www.broadwoodintl.co.uk
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| ATV
Rural crime partnership Suzuki's Trade-In Offer returns Honda works with police to tackle criminals in the country. onda (UK) has recently loaned East Herts Rural Special Team one of TRX420 ATV and accessories with the aim of helping the force tackle and reduce rural crime in the area. The ATV has been used daily in patrols in rural locations by Specials and regular officers, having a very positive effect - both in responding to incidents, and acting as a deterrent. Would-be criminals are put off by seeing the ATV and knowing what it’s capable of. Since starting patrols in a particular area on the ATV, for example, complaints about crime and anti-social behaviour in that area have dropped significantly. Additionally, at this year’s Sawbridgeworth Fayre the ATV enabled an officer to reach all areas of the park quickly and as a result assisted in the arrest of a wanted man. Police teams also used the ATV at the GM crop protest in Rothamsted, Harpenden. The bike was used to patrol large areas of land which were
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cordoned off, and as a result, helped to prevent protestors from entering prohibited areas. The partnership came about as the result of a discussion between East Herts farmers and rural crime officers at a Barn Meet earlier in the year where the idea of using an ATV to help patrol some of the areas of land which are inaccessible to normal 4x4 vehicles was debated. Honda Authorised Dealer, Taylors Tools (based in Herts) has also donated the Rural Special Team a trailer for the ATV and will also look after servicing and maintenance. “Rural crime is a big problem and we are very happy to support Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Rural Specials,” said Phil Webb – Head of Honda (UK) Power Equipment. “These officers face many challenges in the course of their work, but despite everything that’s thrown at them, they do a fantastic job - all in their own time – and provide an essential service to rural communities.”
Take advantage of this offer before December 31st.
ue to the success of last year's trade-in offer, Suzuki is pleased to announce the re-launch of the campaign. Customers are able to receive £300 off a new Suzuki KingQuad 400 or 500 when they trade-in their used ATV, regardless of the make, model or condition. The scheme is running from 1st October to 31st December 2012, which comes in time for the difficult conditions and tougher terrain that the winter brings. The trade-in campaign gives customers an incentive to upgrade their ATV in time for the busy season ahead. Gareth Lumsdaine, ATV Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzuki GB commented, "We were extremely pleased with the success
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of the trade-in campaign last year. Its popularity amongst customers convinced us to relaunch the offer." The offer is available on the KingQuad 400 Manual, KingQuad 400 Auto, KingQuad 500 and KingQuad 500 Power Steering. In addition to the trade-in campaign, Suzuki is also offering customers a free branded workwear kit upon the purchase of a new Suzuki utility ATV. Customers can also take advantage of the courtesy ATV scheme, whereby a new Suzuki ATV is loaned to a customer when their utility ATV is taken to an authorised dealer for service or repair work. For further information on Suzuki’s promotions, please visit www.suzuki-atv.co.uk.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 65
| ATV
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| Motors
Dacia UK car market ‘clean-up operation’ in full swing Over 1,000 Duster pre-orders have been taken. he warning signs for other car firms have been there for several months, when Dacia confirmed the “shockingly affordable” prices for its Duster SUV, from £8,995. In crushing news for the competition, but smile-inducing for value-conscious Brits, the ever ambitious Dacia marque has already smashed the 1,000 UK pre-order mark for Duster. Three months before it even launches in showrooms properly. And, the best bit? It’s achieved the impressive feat before a single buyer has driven a right-hand-drive UKspecification car on British soil. Duster fever “sweeps” across the nation Dacia’s only been on the scene in Western Europe for a few years, but its already taken the market by storm. Something plenty of holidaymakers will no doubt testify to, having seen hordes of privately-owned Dusters and Sanderos zipping around everywhere from the chic streets of Paris and Berlin, to the Med. After an anxious wait, Renault’s “smart buy brand” is now looking to shake up the UK car market. In a big way. How’s it going to do it? Simple. By offering Duster, a compact SUV, priced from £8,995, for less than many entrylevel superminis. Even its higher end dieselengined versions with 4x4 ability, are thousands of pounds cheaper than other all-wheel-drive alternatives. As if that’s not enough to send its rivals running for the hills, to ram home its stunning affordability, its just announced prices for its sister model, the all-new Sandero. Not to be outshone by its bigger sibling, this smartlooking five-door supermini sports an equally jaw-dropping price tag. From £5,995, it’s the most affordable new car on sale in the UK. Bar none.
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“We always knew Dacia had the potential to tap into a stagnant UK new car market. Our Duster flagship is off to a great start even before we’ve received our first right-hand-drive shipment.” It’s safe to say that Duster fever is already sweeping the nation. In little more than 100 days since pre-orders opened via www.dacia.co.uk and its 135 UK Dacia Retailers, Europe’s fastest-growing automotive brand has already bagged 1,000 pre-orders. In fact, at the rate orders are coming in, it’s looking like the £100 refundable deposit paid by the initial batch of canny Duster buyers might be the wisest investment they’ve made all year. They’re not the only ones to spot the SUV’s appeal in its latest markets either. Renault’s Indian subsidiary, where the UK’s Dusters will be built, has already taken over 20,000 orders of its own in just three months. To say they’re selling like hot naans would be a slight understatement. What makes the UK order tally so remarkable, is that savvy buyers are so eager to secure their high-quality, yet affordable Duster, that they’re willing to part with their cash before they’ve even got comfy behind the wheel. It’s unlikely they’ll be disappointed,
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given the stack of awards the brand’s flagship has collected since launch. But, even so, until now the only potential customers who’ve had the pleasure of driving Duster in the UK, are a lucky few who won the chance to sample German versions at the Moving Motor Show when it launched at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier this year. Duster – wide-ranging appeal The high Duster UK pre-order figure is one thing. What makes equally compelling reading are some of the buyer patterns which are emerging. Whether it’s the contrast between rural and urban buyers, or even the high demand for top-spec versions, including 4x4s, Dacia’s SUV seems to have oodles of classdefying, not to mention kerb, appeal. Contrary to what you might expect, given its striking £8,995 entry price, the highest proportion of orders to date are for top-of-therange Lauréate versions, to the point that they make up well over half of the total. It’s a similarly rosy picture with 4x4 orders too. This hasn’t come as a surprise to Dacia, given that these high-specification versions, packing several in-demand items, like air conditioning and alloy wheels, still come at mid-range supermini prices, starting from as little as £12,995. It also mirrors the success story in other Western European countries. In each of them, buyers have tended to treat themselves, either because it’s their first brand new car, having only been able to stretch to a used one before, or, more worryingly for other car marques, because they’re downsizing from more expensive products, but still hanker after certain features. At the other end of the parting with your cash scale, lots of buyers seem quite taken with the prospect of owning a new, trusty workhorse for as little outlay as possible. Ample proof that there’s a gap in the market for a functional car with a good-sized boot and interior, the £8,995 Access is already accounting for nearly a sixth of total orders. So far, this budget-conscious ideal seems to cover everything from a second car on the driveway to double up as a first car for a new driver, right through to a bread and butter, frugal family car for the school run and supermarket load-up. Duster and the rough stuff Unlike many a rival compact SUV, Duster is inherently capable of more than just “Chelsea tractor” duty. Showing that its buyers clearly have every confidence in its off-road ability, and that many aren’t just going to be climbing kerbs in suburbia, a substantial one third of current orders have been for the mud-plugger. Mind you, that’s not a huge leap of faith. Firstly, Duster boasts a proven 4x4 system. Secondly, like every Dacia, it’s designed to be extremely tough. It comes as second nature to a car which is built to take the wild extremes of global weather and terrain in its stride, in destinations as far flung as Brazil, Columbia, India and Russia. Duster’s “cleaning up” right across the UK
As well as the intricacies of individual buyers, one of the most intriguing aspects to the Duster preorders is where they’ve come from. In fact, Duster’s reputation seems to precede it whether you live in Londonderry or London. Topping the sales chart, and by quite a healthy margin, are the Welsh, with Cardiff and Swansea postcodes dominating. Whether that means their SUVs are going to be a common sight up and down the Gower coastline, or the kerbs of the Kingsway in the latter, who knows. But, one thing’s for sure. Much like its national rugby union team’s Grand Slam earlier in the year, the Welsh are off to a flyer. Mind you, the canny Scots aren’t too far behind either. On the back of Duster’s recent Scottish Car of the Year hat-trick, including the overall title, they block out three other places in the top 10. In England, Liverpudlians seems to have fallen for Duster’s charms hook line and sinker. Closely followed by an eclectic mix of wannabe owners up and down the country, from as far afield as Brighton, Kettering, Middlesborough and Yeovil. Completing the picture are the Northern Irish. Unsurprisingly, there the largest Dacia Retailer, Belfast, is leading the charge. Dacia– the ‘smart buy’ approach One of the cornerstones of Dacia’s success, is its elimination of the unnecessary. By doing so, it gives customers the chance to just pay “for what they value”. It’s already working well for Duster in the UK. The first signs are clear for all to see in the huge demand for options, accessories and extended warranties. A whopping two thirds, for example, have ticked the box for one or more accessory on their new pride and joy. Commenting on the brand’s impressive early UK success, Dacia’s Marketing Director, Phil York, said, “We always knew Dacia had the potential to tap into a stagnant UK new car market. Our Duster flagship is off to a great start even before we’ve received our first righthand-drive shipment. We’ve jealously watched our European neighbours sell Dacias by the thousand over the last few years, so it’s not just great for us, but more importantly for British buyers, that there’s a new “smart buy” in the car market. “And it doesn’t stop there. We’ve just taken the wraps off the eagerly-awaited new Dacia Sandero supermini, ready for it to tempt customers into Dacia Retailers in January alongside Duster. All at “shockingly affordable” prices, with attractive styling, frugal and efficient engines, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that we’re confident the British public will take Dacia to their hearts.” For the latest information on Dacia’s UK prelaunch activities, interested customers are invited to sign-up at www.dacia.co.uk. Further details are also available on twitter @daciauk, www.facebook.com/daciauk or by calling 0800 99 11 99.
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| Motors
Isuzu D-Max launches eye-catching ‘vision’ pack Even greater refinement and luxury for the tough, off-road pick-up
n response to customer demand, Isuzu UK has launched a new audio, navigation and communication upgrade pack for the all-new Isuzu D-Max pick-up, designed to appeal to trade and recreational users alike. From late October, buyers of the Isuzu D-Max Yukon and Utah models will be able to specify the ‘Vision’ pack, which comprises of a Pioneer Satellite Navigation unit, a rear-view parking camera and enhanced audio capabilities, all for just £900 (+VAT). The launch of the Vision pack is further evidence of Isuzu’s intention to become the number one pick-up brand in the UK.
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The new unit also features significantly increased audio capabilities, including CD/DVD playback; MP3 compatibility; micro SD; USB, iPod and Parrot Bluetooth hands-free connectivity; and Bluetooth media streaming. Full functionality of steering-wheel controls is maintained.
The rear-view parking camera aids driver visibility when reversing. The camera is mounted to the rear bumper, and integrates with the new head unit to automatically display the camera image on the screen when reverse gear is selected. The touch-screen Pioneer unit comes complete with custom-built surround and replaces the factoryfit unit, fully integrating into the dashboard of the pick-up. William Brown, General Manager at Isuzu UK commented: “The addition of the ‘Vision’ pack adds even greater refinement and luxury to the already highlyspecified Yukon and Utah models, without compromising the brand’s legendary reputation as a manufacturer of tough, off-road pick-ups.” The new Isuzu D-Max range includes single, extended (with rear-hinged side access panels) and double cab body configurations. Double cab models are available in four specifications: Isuzu D-Max, Eiger, Yukon and Utah. Prices start at £14,499 (CVOTR) for the entrylevel Isuzu D-Max 4x2 single cab and rise to £21,999 (CVOTR) for the top-of-the-range Isuzu D-Max Utah 4x4 double cab automatic. The Isuzu D-Max is fitted with a completely re-engineered, 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel engine and is available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The D-Max is covered by a five-year / 120,000-mile warranty.
70 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
al dealer Contact your loc
Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Devon - 01364 652302 devon-isuzu.co.uk
Victor Wood (Isuzu) Lincolnshire - 01476 512460 victorwoodisuzu.co.uk
Maple Garage Ltd East Yorkshire - 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk
Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear - 01912 573309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk
Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire - 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk
R. Hunt Isuzu Hampshire - 01264 860532 www.rhunt.co.uk
Bulldog Twyford Berkshire - 0118 9321 331 bulldogtwyford.com
York Van Centre North Yorkshire - 01904 470170 www.yorkvancentre.co.uk
Duckworth Isuzu Boston - 01205 725700 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk
Sheaf Motors Derbyshire - 01246 296969 isuzusales@sheafmotors.co.uk
Duckworth Isuzu Market Rasen - 01673 841410 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk
Alexander & Duncan Herefordshire - 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk
Hammonds of Halesworth Suffolk - 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk
Shukers Isuzu (Shrewsbury) Shropshire - 01743 873900 www.shukersisuzu.co.uk
Holdcroft Isuzu Staffordshire - 0800 881 5546 holdcroftisuzu.com
Culverwell Cars East Sussex - 01580 880567 www.culverwells.co.uk
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| Motors
Auto Services Perth Ltd 6 Bertha Park View, Inveralmond Ind. Est., Perth, Perthshire PH1 3EE Tel: 01738 210000 www.autoservicesperthltd.co.uk
Bob Gerard Ltd London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE8 9GF Tel: 0116 259 2224 www.bobgerard.co.uk
72 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
Brenwood Motor Co Unit 2, Waverley Road, Kirkaldy, Fife KY1 3NH Tel: 01592 655550 www.brenwood.co.uk
David Cook Motors Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham, Lancashire OL9 9LA Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk
John Pease Motor Group Manor Street, Braintree, Essex CM7 3BH Tel: 01376 545540 www.johnpeasemotorgroup.co.uk
NMG 4x4 Centre Wroxam Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR7 8TN Tel: 01603 401044 www.nmg-uk.com
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| Motors
New Korando Sports Pick-Up SsangYong announces prices and specification. orando Sports brings a new level of refinement to the market place, blending the suspension, engine and cabin finesse of a passenger car, the silhouette, space and seating for five that’s typical of a double cab, and the rugged workmanlike ability of a commercial pick-up. This new Korando Sports will appeal to those who need a working vehicle, the practicality of 4 wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 2.3 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car. Whether towing a work trailer or horsebox, ferrying the crew to site or the children to school, Korando Sports will meet a range of different demands. “As you would expect from SsangYong, the new Korando Sports is both keenly priced
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and comprehensively equipped,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “From just £18,295 (incl VAT) you not only get a lot of vehicle for the money, but also a 5 year limitless mileage warranty. SsangYong is the only manufacturer to have that much confidence in its pick-up, which will give customers complete peace of mind. “SsangYong has a growing reputation for building extremely competent off-road vehicles, and the new Korando Sports builds on this pedigree. It’s an honest, reliable and highly capable vehicle, and pound for pound will
outclass many more expensive rivals.” Two models - SX & EX There are two models from launch. The SX is extremely well appointed and comes equipped with 16” alloy wheels, tinted glass, air conditioning, leather covered steering wheel, remote central locking, Kenwood MP3 CD & RDS radio with a USB & auxiliary port and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX features the luxury touch of leather upholstery with heated front seats, powered driver’s seat, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors and rear parking sensors. A 6 speed automatic transmission with cruise control is also available as an option.
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 73
FREELANDER 2
4HE CALM BEFORE DURING AND AFTER THE STORM
With all the performance and reliability you’ve come to expect, the latest Freelander 2 with a remodeled interior. Features such as touch-screen audio and phone, a redesign items, make the Freelander a pleasure to travel in.
Call us today to book a test drive. Barretts - Ashford
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01484 516016 www.rocarmoo
Barretts - Canterbury
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01227 475 475 www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk
0118 404 0077 WWW LANCASTER READING LANDROVER CO UK
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08430 225 688 www.colliers.landrover.co.uk
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2 sets new standards for driver and passenger comfort, ned centre console, and improved stowage for small
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0844 324 1720 WWW HARTWELL OXFORD LANDROVER CO UK
01422 363 340 www.copley.landrover.co.uk
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01205 722 110 www.duckworth.boston.landrover.co.uk
08433 833530 www.kentdale.landrover.co.uk
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November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 75
| Motors
Subaru offers customers free winter health check Subaru UK has launched a free winter vehicle level check and top-up of essential fluids for all Subaru models at its nationwide dealer network. ecent research from the AA suggests that 80% of roadside breakdowns could be avoided if fluid levels were checked and topped-up regularly, and Subaru is offering this service to customers, absolutely free. The inspection, carried out by trained Subaru technicians, includes checking tyre pressures, and topping up engine and gearbox oil, the engine coolant and screen wash. A full visual health check will also ensure that cars are operating to the best of their abilities. Haydn Davies, Marketing Director of Subaru UK, commented: “Winter brings more hazardous driving conditions, with cold temperatures, damp or icy roads and poor visibility. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is already designed to keep our customers as safe as possible whatever the weather, while an enviable reliability record helps keep owners mobile, too. At
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the same time we like our dealers to have regular contact with our customers so we hope many of them will make use of this latest offer.” Subaru UK’s latest offer for the
season comes on top of the opportunity to store wheels and tyres at the dealer over winter, as part of the ground-breaking ETC aftersales package. To find out more about Subaru’s
winter health check and to find your nearest Subaru dealership, visit www.subaru.co.uk.
available as a no-cost alternative. As well as changes to the range of interior colours, interior trim elements and Colour Lines, the selection of exterior paint finishes will also be given a refresh in autumn 2012. New additions include the suitably expressive colour shades Brilliant Copper metallic and Blazing Red metallic. Plus, a restructuring of the equipment packages on offer to customers will make it even easier to customise the MINI Countryman to reflect their tastes. Customers can choose from six engine variants for the MINI Countryman. The three petrol and three diesel units produce outputs stretching from 66 kW/90 hp to 135 kW/184 hp. Beyond these, there is also the ultra-sporty MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, powered by a turbocharged 160 kW/218 hp engine. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system fitted as
standard on this top-class performance variant is also available as an option for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman. All models, with the exception of the MINI One D Countryman, can be ordered with a six-speed automatic gearbox as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual. The impressive efficiency of the engines and gearboxes along with extensive MINIMALISM technology ensure all the MINI Countryman variants achieve an exemplary balance between driving fun and fuel economy. Added to which, from autumn 2012 manual versions of the MINI One Countryman and MINI Cooper Countryman will meet the stipulations of the EU6 exhaust emissions standard due to come into force in 2014.
The Mini Countryman Model update measures for Autumn 2012. n the two years since its launch onto the world’s car markets, the MINI Countryman has developed into a driving force behind the continuing growth of the brand. The transference of hallmark MINI qualities and values into a new vehicle segment has won over new target groups worldwide to the brand’s unmistakable style. Autumn 2012 will see the British carmaker’s first model to offer allwheel drive benefiting from an extensive round of modifications which will further enhance the allure of its boundless driving fun. Detailed refinements to the car’s design and the selection of materials available for the interior shine the spotlight even more brightly on a premium character none of the MINI Countryman’s rivals can match. The spacious five-door’s optimised ease of use underlines its very modern appreciation of practicality. The modifications designed for the MINI Countryman will be rolled out across all model variants from November 2012. Open one of the front doors and the newly designed rings encircling the Centre Speedo and four air vents immediately stand out. They will
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now be presented across the board in the colour shade Carbon Black and also have an inner ring in high-gloss black or – as part of the Chrome Line Interior option – in chrome. Both in standard trim and with options specified, the fresh appeal of the colours and materials adds further lustre to the high-quality character of the MINI Countryman interior. Newly designed door inserts also help to enhance the car’s premium ambience, comfort and practicality. Remodelled door armrests provide even more comfortable support for the arms, and the controls for the electric windows are now also positioned in the door trim. A full control panel is integrated into the door armrest on the driver’s side. The switches clustered here include the controls for all the windows, the deactivation facility for the rear window controls and adjustment for the exterior mirrors. Moving the window controls away from the centre console also optimises access to the larger storage compartment below it. From autumn 2012 the MINI Countryman will come as standard with a three-seat rear bench, while a pair of individual seats will be
76 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
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Holdcroft Subaru Leek Road, Hanley Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire Tel: 0800 881 5546 holdcroftsubaru.com
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Culverwell Cars Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG Tel: 01580 880567 www.culverwells.co.uk
Newcastle Subaru 53 Queen Alexandra Road -West, North Sheilds, Tyne & Wear NE29 9AA Tel: 0191 257 3309 www.newcastlesubaru.co.uk
Shukers (Subaru) Shrewsbury 7 Battlefield Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 4AE Tel: 01743 450045 www.shukerssubaru.co.uk
November 2012 | Farming Monthly | 77
| Motors
Eco luxury
VW shows Taigun
Low Carbon Leather chosen for all-new Range Rover.
Compact SUV concept unveiled at São Paulo motor show.
ridge of Weir Leather Company, part of the Scottish Leather Group, has been selected to supply its award-winning low carbon product for the interior of the all-new Range Rover, recently revealed at the Royal Ballet School, London. Selected for its unique low carbon manufacturing process, and outstanding environmental record, the high performance EcoSoft semi aniline leather supplied for the all-new Range Rover is locally sourced and exceeds all technical criteria for such a cutting-edge vehicle. The Range Rover promotional materials state: “Having constructed such a cutting-edge car, the interior materials choice was crucial in order to increase its sustainability without compromising luxury. Leather is one of the original recycled materials – for millennia it has been a by-product of farming, but its manufacture has been highly resource intensive. However, supplier Bridge of Weir has created one of the most sustainable manufacturing
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olkswagen’s latest concept car, the Taigun, has been unveiled at the São Paulo motor show, and previews the look of a possible small SUV based on the New Small Family platform, which underpins the award-winning up!. Just like the up!, the Taigun is small on the outside – at just 3.86 metres long and 1.73 metres wide – but big on the inside, thanks to a generous 2.47 metre wheelbase. These dimensions give the Taigun short overhangs (708 mm front and 681 mm rear) and purposeful proportions, while the clear, concise exterior styling follows the unmistakable Volkswagen design DNA. Powering the four-seat Taigun is a new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 110 PS at 5,000 rpm and pushing 175 Nm (129 lbs ft) of torque through the six-speed manual gearbox. The engine is based on the latest EA211 series, and with the use of direct fuel injection and turbocharging it is able to return a combined fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100km (60.1 mpg), despite being able to take the 985 kg Taigun from zero to 62 mph in 9.2 seconds and on to 186 km/h (115 mph) top speed. The look of the Taigun is deliberately styled to emulate that of its SUV siblings, the Tiguan and Touareg, as is evident in the rugged side panels, underbody protection and practical roof rails with LED spotlights. Wide tracks (1,473 mm front and rear) help give the Taigun a purposeful look, while 17-inch alloys with 205/50 R17 tyres, high ground clearance and plentiful torque enable it to
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processes in the world. The factory has its own Thermal Energy Plant providing 70% of its needs, with a target of 100% by 2015. In addition, all waste products of the tanning process are recycled, with oils being converted into biodiesel and ash used to make house bricks. Even the offcuts are recycled into clothing accessories such as belts. The carbon footprint of leather in the all new Range Rover has been reduced by 46% per square metre.” Jamie Davidson, Bridge of Weir sales director, says: “We have worked very closely with the Land Rover design team over a number of years to achieve a product that is just right for this outstanding new vehicle. It is a soft and sumptuous luxury leather, but low carbon, very technically advanced with superior performance and durability attributes as well. It is our flagship leather product for the world’s most refined and capable SUV.”
78 | Farming Monthly | November 2012
deal with rough surfaces. This is, however, very much a vehicle for the urban environment: the high driving position gives the driver an optimum view in traffic, while there’s plenty of room for luggage, thanks to a practical 280-litre loadspace that increases to 987 litres with the rear seats down. What’s more, the tailgate is split, with the top two-thirds opening upwards and the bottom third folding down, making loading even easier. The interior of the Taigun is simple and spacious (headroom is 1,036 mm in front and 980 mm at the back), with controls pared back to a minimum. The front air nozzles, for example, not only individually control the direction of the air flow, but also the blower speed and the temperature, which is displayed within the nozzle. Meanwhile the central infotainment system can pair with the majority of smartphones, providing an intuitive interface. Above this are mounted auxiliary instrument gauges that display oil pressure, coolant temperature and turbo charge pressure. Volkswagen will be monitoring public reaction to this vehicle before taking a decision on whether to put the Taigun into production.
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