October 2011 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2011

Inside this issue...

Solar Energy Feature A guide to solar energy

Hedge & Verge The best machines to get the job done

SsangYong are back New Korando model launched

Competition Win BBC Good Food Show Winter tickets

The leading directly distributed UK national agricultural magazine

Contents

October2011

UK PUBLISHING 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

ADVERTISING Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter To advertise please call TEL: 02476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

News

04

PRODUCTION Production Team Steve Wilson Andrew Poulton

Updated gun guidance ............................17 National Trust Awards................................23

Saltex

8

Buyers rain down on IOG Saltex ................8

On Topic

16

Solar Education

47

John Craven at Walford ............................47 The food crisis ..........................................16

Grain

18

Machinery

48

Reeds and Dieci - hand in hand................48

UK Grain 2011 ..........................................18

SDF rescue charity ploughing match ......50

Grain dryer maintenance tips....................19

John Deere updates 8R Series ................58

Moisture meter for combines ....................22

Red Tractor

24

Groundcare

60

New Stihl MS 241 chainsaw ......................60 The new clip-on Powersharp ....................61

Competition

63

Win Good Food Show tickets....................63 What’s new in Food Assurance? ..............24

ATV

64

New Honda Foreman ................................66

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Keep up with the latest news about Farming Monthly National by following us on...

40

Solar PV guide ..........................................40

Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com

CHANNELS

Free seminars at RenewableUK ................37 Weltec in biogas plant record ..................38

FINANCE

1 Year (12 issues) £18 To subscribe TEL: 02476 353537 or alternatively email subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com

37

Potato Council and ‘small potatoes’ ........04

EDITORIAL Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries TEL: 02476 353537

Energy

Buildings

25

Energy efficient redevelopment ................26 RIDBA holds CE marking seminars ............27

Feature

Polaris 0% offer..........................................67

Motors

71

28

Eggshell quality genetic code cracked ....28

Dairy

29

Dairy Event post report..............................30 Dairy Spares win award ............................31 New C4 Aircross ........................................73

Hedge & Verge

32

Spearhead Twiga Pro ................................32 New McConnel Power Arms ....................33 When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

Tillage

34

SsangYong launch new Korando..............78

Next Month…

Pest control

Tillage 2011 post report ............................34 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 03

| News

Spud stars of the small screen go on tour Potato Council teams up with ‘Small Potatoes’ otato Council and TV production company Little Airplane Productions, the team behind 3rd & Bird and The Wonder Pets, have joined forces to take ‘Small Potatoes’ on an interactive tour of the country, and introduce children and their parents to the enjoyment of potatoes this autumn.

The ‘Small Potatoes’ series, which is shown on CBeebies, features four adorable animated spud stars who travel the world and sing about different topics in each episode. The programme takes young viewers on an exploration of imaginative play and builds an appreciation of a variety of music genres.

Recognising that the small potato characters held a real affinity with its young audience, Potato Council reached an agreement with Little Airplane Productions for them to be a part of its consumer roadshow and family focused activity.

While parents will be invited to join a registered dietician for sessions including meal demonstrations and sampling,

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Ten Top Tips for happy and healthy eating, quick fire Q&A’s and advice, the children will get to meet the two of the ‘Small Potatoes’ characters ‘Ruby’ and ‘Nate’. Here they will be encouraged to take part in singa-longs, games and colouring competitions. The winners will receive a specially customised ‘Photato’ image.

The costume characters and Potato Council promotional vehicle will be stopping at eight venues across the country during October and November*.

Fully equipped with a kitchen, classroom facilities and seating, the unit will be fully branded with a mix of ‘Small Potatoes’ and healthy eating message boards.

Caroline Evans, Potato Council head of marketing and corporate affairs, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have the stars of ‘Small Potatoes’ joining our autumn roadshow.

“As parents are educated about the health benefits of fresh potatoes and inspired with tasty recipes, pre-school children will be entertained by the fun

04 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

characters – after all it’s never too early to be introduced to the delights of potatoes!”

“We are thrilled to be joining forces with Potato Council by taking our Small Potatoes' stars Ruby and Nate out on the road to help encourage families to eat healthily," said Josh Selig, President of Little Airplane Productions. “Any friend of the potato is a friend of mine."

The roadshow dates and venues are:

Date

Venue

Town/City

13th October

West Quay Retail Park

Southampton

14th October

Gun Wharf Quay

Portsmouth

20th October

Fort Shopping Park

Birmingham

21st October

Chapelfield Shopping Park

Norwich

27th October

White Rose Centre

Leeds

28th October

Monks Cross Shopping Park

York

3rd November

Castle Street

Edinburgh

4th November

Fort Shopping Park

Glasgow

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Wild bees key to boosting quality blackcurrant yield East Malling Research trial offers best practice advice to growers for maximum returns.

rials by scientists at East Malling Research (EMR) have revealed that wild solitary bees and bumblebees are key to high yield blackcurrant harvests and larger more uniform berry size.

This was found to be especially important in bad weather.

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“Good pollination leads to well-formed, high quality fruit which must be every grower’s aim.”

Honeybees, however, were not found pollinating flowers on the nine plantations surveyed, and so play little part in the contribution to blackcurrant pollination.

The EMR team, led by entomologist Dr Michelle Fountain, has been growing Ben Gairn and Ben Hope blackcurrants in a series of 12m long flight cages. The team has been closely monitoring the success rates of different, native pollinators.

“The results are clear,” said Dr Fountain. “With just our wild bees, we achieved maximum pollination in warm, sunny weather on our Ben Gairn trials.

“In the year of the trial, Ben Hope flowered later, during a period of poor weather with low temperatures and between 10 and 15mm of rainfall. The fruit set of the blackcurrant was up to 40 per cent lower in the open

pollinated bushes compared to those which were supplemented with bumblebee nest boxes.”

“This is because the poor weather made wild bees less active.”

The study has so far identified 13 species of bee foraging for pollen and nectar on blackcurrant.

Dr Fountain is now keen to see guidelines drawn up to assist blackcurrant and other fruit growers to maximise pollination levels by developing good local habitats for previously underrated wild bees.

“Good management of local biodiversity and the wider environment plus considered use of pesticides could make all the difference to pollination levels and the quality of harvests.

“Good pollination leads to well-formed, high quality fruit which must be every grower’s aim,” she said.

EMR advice includes careful use of insecticides, especially around the time of flowering when native wild bees may be foraging within the crop.

Other crop management techniques suggested include ensuring native bees have access to the different environments they need for nesting, raising their broods and overwintering; encouraging a wide range of wild flowers and plants on field margins; mowing flowering alleyways before applying insecticides to avoid spraying foraging bees; and nurturing sustainable hedgerows to encourage biodiversity.

“The blackcurrant trials, funded by Defra, GlaxoSmithKline and other industrial partners, have told us a great deal about pollination.

However, they have also opened up new areas of scientific challenge which we are keen to pursue to provide our fruit growers with even more information to ensure maximum pollination and quality of their crops,” said Dr Fountain.

“With just our wild bees, we achieved maximum pollination.”

‘HOT & COLD PRESSURE WASHERS & AIR COMPRESSORS’

Sellarc

For full details, phone today: W. Bateman & Co Garstang Road, Barton, Preston, Lancs Tel: (01772) 862948 Fax: (01772) 861639 www.bateman-sellarc.co.uk

06 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

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| News

Euro exchange rate for SPS 2011 confirmed Farmers should see positive outcome from figures. he Euro Exchange Rate for Single Payment Scheme (SPS) 2011 has been confirmed by the RPA (using European Central Bank official rate) as €1 = £0.86665 NFU single payment scheme adviser Richard Wordsworth said: “We are pleased to see the 2011 rate more favourable than last year’s. This will have a positive impact on those SPS payments that will start to be made in December.

“This will generate a payment above expectations for some and for others it will soften the fall in entitlement values as we move towards flat rate in 2012. It will also help businesses absorb higher input costs which we have seen over the past 12 months.

“With the release of the CAP reform proposals expected soon, the use of a single reference date needs to be considered to ensure non-Euro member states are not adversely

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affected by the currency markets.

“The NFU continues to monitor and raise its concerns over the delivery of SPS payments which our members will turn their focus to as we approach December 1. There continues to be many issues that need resolving and we hope the minister and RPA will address our concerns in the coming months to ensure prompt and timely payments for all eligible 2011 claimants.

“Finally, our members should be reminded that they need to ensure that the RPA has correct and up to date bank details to avoid unnecessary delays in receiving their 2011 payment and should contact the RPA if they have any doubt.”

Do Farm Stay UK make the most delicious breakfasts?

Winners announced on November 14th. hristine Ryder from Scaife Hall Farm, Blubberhouses, near Otley in Yorkshire has been named as one of three finalists in the Deliciously Yorkshire Breakfast Awards for 2011.

The winners will be announced on November 14 at Rudding Park, Harrogate. The finalists are to be judged by an independent panel of more than 20 food connoisseurs, including Radio 2’s Nigel Barden, Stephanie Moon, Tim Bilton and former chef at 10 Downing Street Mathew Benson-Smith. Matthew Benson-Smith is now the chef at Dean Clough Cooking School where in May, Yorkshire Farm Stay members enjoyed a day’s cookery course which was part funded by Yorkshire

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Forward.

Rosemary Hyslop, Regional Director of Farm Stay UK comments: “In 2010 the Deliciously Yorkshire Breakfast Award was won by another Farm Stay member, Katrina Gray of Wold Cottage, Wold Newton, Driffield, so we have great hopes that another Farm Stay member will win this year’s award. Good luck Christine!”

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 07

| Saltex

Buyers rain down on IOG Saltex exhibitors The visitor ‘quality’ theme continues as exhibitors report a high number of serious enquiries at popular show.

espite the inclement weather during this year’s three-day IOG SALTEX turf and open space management show, exhibitors were reporting a high number of serious enquiries – and sales leads – starting right from the first few hours of the exhibition.

D J Turfcare was among a number of companies that reported sales almost as soon as the show opened. David Jenkins, Managing Director, announced that he had sold a

D

Plugger PL855 Pro HD aerator which was being launched at the show. And Gary Mumby of BLEC Global reported the sale of a BLEC Laser Grader. Gary said that “despite the heavy rain during day one, I still took lots of serious enquiries”, which will be followed up after the show. As the show closed, Gary added: “IOG SALTEX was a terrific show; we sold eight machines from the stand (including our new Shakervator, Stumpgrinder and Blecavator) and took

08 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

dozens of enquiries.”

Day one was also a good time for The Grass Group, as Managing Director Tim Merrell, reported: “A national contractor came to our stand last year and expressed an interest in a Trilo vacuum/sweeper. On the first day this year he came to the stand and ordered the machine.

What a start! We’ve seen a good mix of visitors – including local authorities, schools and colleges – and took an order from a golf club for a SmartCut.” It is no surprise, therefore, that DJ Turfcare, BLEC Global and The Grass Group were first among the almost 70 per cent of exhibitors which have already rebooked for next year’s event.

The 9,500 visitors (unaudited) from across the open space management sector had plenty to see on the 360 stands that housed a total of 429 companies: the showground was dominated by new products, details of many being shrouded in secrecy until the show opened. Etesia, for example, unveiled no less than

15 new products – including the Bahia M2E, the world’s first fully electric ride-on cut and collect mower.

Numbers aside, it was clear that many exhibitors were, of course, focused as much on the quality of visitors who attended – and IOG SALTEX did not let them down.

Nick Darking, Sales Manager at Charterhouse Turf Machinery, led the plaudits: “We’ve seen a good quality of visitors, ranging from local authorities, schools and colleges to golf clubs. There’s been a lot of interest in our new products, and we’ve seen an increase in the level of enquiries for our synthetic surface maintenance equipment.”

Ian Howard, Managing Director of Dennis/Sisis, added: “Fantastic! We’ve had a great response. We’ve seen a lot of dedicated Sisis customers and we’ve had some very complimentary comments. IOG SALTEX was particularly critical for us this year and I’m pleased to say that we’ve seen visitors

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Saltex from local authorities as well as bowling, cricket and tennis clubs – a good variety. We’ve seen some overseas visitors as well, with good export potential.”

And Greenmech was celebrating the success of its new Quad-Chip/-Trak wood chipper, which was pronounced as the winner of the EDGE (Expo Demo Green Europe) Product Innovation Award. This will now go forward to be judged internationally with the overall winners.

With a busy programme of outdoor live demonstrations and special feature areas including the BTS-organised World of Arb, the Polaris 4 x 4 off-road course and the Education Zone (embracing the Sports Turf Skills Village), visitors could also tap into an equalled fount of education and learning, including the free seminar programme.

The comments by one visitor - Tony Bolton, Head Gardener at Ackergill Tower – summed up the mood of delegates to the education programme. Tony, who travelled all the way from Caithness in Scotland, commented: “I attended a number of seminars and all were excellent.

I also spent some time in the

Skills Village, including the demonstration on mower safety given by Ransomes Jacobsen.

These were fantastic sessions.

Grounds staff and gardeners alike are missing out on a wonderful learning experience and wealth of knowledge from industry experts at these seminars and demonstrations especially in the back-to-basics skills village".

Back out on the showground it continued to be a case of ‘busy, busy, busy’, as Chris Harris, Managing Director of TYM Tractors UK, confirmed: “The traffic flow of visitors has been greater than expected and has led to more positive leads and business that we had anticipated.”

And the visitor ‘quality’ theme continued with Rob Norton, Managing Director of Artificial Grass Maintenance. “We’ve seen some good quality visitors,” he said. “Interestingly, we’ve had quite a few positive enquiries from councils and local authorities, which somewhat bucks the trend of local authorities not having any money to spend.

We’ve had such a good show that we’ve already booked for next year and have taken more space.”

Next Auctions on Monday 3rd October 2011 & 7th November 2011 commencing at 10.30am

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October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 09

USED

TRACTORS Claas Xerion 3300 Trac, 2008, 1098 hrs.

F/linkage, air brakes, 335hp.

Claas Ares 826RZ Suspension 40kph.

F/Linkage, 170hp. 2347 hours, 2006.

Claas Ares 836RZ Suspension 40kph.

F/Linkage, 190hp. 1975 hours, 2006.

New Holland 2120 4wd. Compact.

New Holland 3930 c/w Trima loader.

New Holland TN75s 4wd. Turf tyres.

New Holland 5635 c/w loader, very low hours.

New Holland 6635 c/w loader, very low hours.

New Holland TL80 2wd. 2002, weights.

New Holland TL90 PowerShuttle 4wd.

2003.

New Holland TL90 c/w Quicke Q40 loader, 1720 hours, air cond.cab, one owner.

New Holland TD90 c/w Chillton loader, 228 hours.

New Holland T4030 SuperSteer, 1230 hours.

New Holland TS115, 2006, 3254 hours.

New Holland TM175 Front Linkage & pto.

MF410 2wd compact, roll bar, 55hp.

MF240, cab, immaculate2400 hours.

MF 365 2wd c/w MF loader, 3600 hours.

MF 372 4wd. 3950 hours, weights.

MF 4355 c/w MF loader, 2100 hours.

MF50EX 4wd Loader tractor, low hours.

Steyr 9094, 1999, 3563 hours, 40kph.

Valtra T151 Suspension, 2010, 1073 hours.

Valtra T152 Suspension, 2009, 870 hours.

Fendt 924 Vario TMS, 2004, F/linkage.

Zetor 7211 2wd. 4149 hrs. very clean.

McCormick CX85 c/w Chillton loader.

John Deere 6320 F/linkage, 2004, 4320 hrs.

John Deere 6420s TLS Suspension, Loader Bkts. 2005, 3097 hrs.

John Deere 6620 TLS , 2004, 4120 hrs.

John Deere 6820 TLS, F/linkage, 3517 hrs.

Passenger seat, field office.

John Deere 7530 TLS 50kph. 2007, 1924 hrs.

Trailer air brakes, 710/70 x 38 tyres.

CASEIH TRACTORS JXU105 Two Wheel Drive, 310 hours.

JXU105 4wd. 2011, 55 hrs. P/Shuttle.

JXU105 4wd. 2009, 420 hrs. P/Shuttle.

JXU1100 4wd. 3500 hours.

TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT

New Quicke Q40 loaders to fit JXU. New Quicke Q45 loaders to fit JXU. MX135 c/w Chillton MX120 loader.

MXU100 ‘54’ reg. 4253 hrs. Quicke loader.

MXU130 XLine c/w Quicke loader.

New Quicke Q49 loader to fit Maxxum.

CS78 c/w Quicke 640 loader.

CS110 Special, 5500 hours.

MXM155 Powershift F/linkage & pto.

2265 hrs.

MXM 190 Suspension 50kph. 5200 hours.

Front weights, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

MXM 190 Suspension 50kph. 3378 hours.

Front weights, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

New Quicke Q 75 loader to fit Puma.

Puma 155 c/w Case loader, 2009, 1245 hours.

Puma 140 PowerShift, 2010, 263 hours.

Puma 140 PowerShift 40kph. 547 hours.

Puma 155 Semi PowerShift, 278 hours.

Puma 155 MultiController 50kph. 317 hours.

Puma 155 MultiController 50kph. 250 hours.

Puma 155 MultiController 50kph. 3193 hours.

Puma 155 Suspension 40kph. 2611 hours.

Puma 165 Suspension 50kph. 715 hours.

Puma 165 Suspension 50kph. 418 hours.

Puma 180, 50kph. 2011, Trailer air brakes, 650/65 x 42 tyres, low hours.

Puma 195 MC Suspension 50kph. 976 hours.

Puma 210 MC. 50kph. 585 hrs.

Puma 210 Suspension 40kph. 1040 hrs.

Puma 210 Front Linkage, 2008, 2900 hours.

Puma 210 Front Linkage, 2009, 3915 hours.

Puma CVX 225 F/Linkage, 2010, 785 hours, Trailer air brakes, 50kph.

CVX 1155 Suspension 50kph. 2004, 3300 hrs.

CVX140 Suspension 40kph. F/Linkage, 2007, 2859 hrs. trailer air brakes.

CVX140 Suspension 50kph. 2008, 3447 hrs.

Trailer air brakes.

CVX150 Suspension 50kph. 2007, 3518 hrs.

460/85 x 46 tyres.

CVX150 Suspension 40kph. 2007, 3066

hrs.

F/linkage, trailer air brakes.

CVX175 Suspension, F/linkage & pto.

2008, 3141 hours, 50kph.

CVX1190 Suspension 50kph. 2004, 5700 hrs.

F/linkage & pto.

CVX175 Suspension, 2009, 2600 hours.

Magnum 225 Suspension, 2007, 2300 hours.

50kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres.

Magnum 280 Suspension, 2008, 609 hours.

50kph. AutoSteer ready.

Magnum 280 Suspension, 2008, 3230 hours.

50kph. 710/70 x 42 tyres.

Magnum 310 Suspension, 2009, 461 hours, 50kph. Trailer air brakes, 710/70 x 42 tyres.

Magnum 310 Suspension, 2010, 1748 hours.

Full AutoSteer, 50kph. Trailer air brakes.

Magnum 335 Suspension, 2010, 456 hours, 540 & 1000 pto.

Magnum 335 Suspension, 2009, 4350 hours, Pro 600, 50kph.

Magnum 335 Suspension, 2011, 550 hours, 50kph. Air brakes, Accuguide ready.

STX Quadtrac 480, rear Linkage & pto.

Drawbar, 2006, 30” tracks, 4786 hrs.

STX Quadtrac 500, rear Linkage & pto.

Drawbar, 2005, 4331 hrs.

STX Quadtrac 500, rear Linkage & pto.

Drawbar, 2005, 36” tracks, 5312 hrs.

STX Quadtrac 500, rear Linkage & pto.

Drawbar, 2005, 5700 hrs. one owner.

COMBINES Axial Flow 5088 c/w 20’ Vario header.

2011, just 30 hours, Case warranty For 2012 season + Case finance.

Axial Flow 7088 c/w 24’ Vario header.

Axial Flow 9120 c/w latest 35’ header, Accuguide ready, ex Startin Farms.

Axial Flow 1660E, 16’ header & trolly.

John Deere 1177, 816 header & trolly.

John Deere 9780 CTS Hillmaster, 22’ header & trolly.

New Holland TC56 SL, 13’ header & trolly.

30’ Headers to fit Case/New Holland.

30’ high capacity New Holland headers.

CaseIH 17’ Vario header unused.

Scan to view our range

NEW McCONNEL HEDGECUTTERS In stock PA93 Super Slew, cable control, 1.2m head.

PA55 XTC controls, 1.2m head.

PA65T EDS V4 controls, 1.5m head.

PA65T EDS V4 controls, Hydraulic roller, 1.5m head.

PA6570T V4 controls, 1.5m head, hyd.roller.

USED HEDGECUTTERS Shelbourne Reynolds 7 metre 1.5m head, proportional controls.

McConnel PA65T, V4 controls, 1.5m head, Front flap kit.

McConnel PA6000, 1.5m head, 2001.

AS MARSTON TRAILERS Ace 14 Hyd.door, grain Chute, sprung drawbar.

Used AS Marston 14 ton with Roll over sheet.

Salop 9 ton tandem axle trailer.

TELESCOPIC HANDLERS/forklift Manitou 741 MLT120 LSU, 2004.

JCB 520-40, 2005, 769 hours.

JCB 535-60 Farm Special Super, 2006, 4775 hours, Air cond.

Matbro TR200, 4882 hours.

Manitou Buggiscopic, 4200 hrs.

Manitou M26-4 forklift, 3000 hrs.

Merlo MultiFarmer 30.6, late 2005, 1100 hours, rear linkage & pto.

114hp.

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT JCB 4cx Sitemaster, 1998.

JCB 8045 ZTS Excavator, 2007.

Volvo EC 140 Excavator, 2003.

Yanmar 2.8 ton Excavator, 1200 hours.

Hitachi ZX210 Excavator, 2011.

Ausa D600 swivel dumper, 2008, 428 hrs.

Neuson TD18s tracked swivel dumper.

MACHINERY New Holland 640 Round baler, Barn stored, excellent.

McConnel 7 leg Shakerator.

McConnel 5 leg Shakerator.

Vicon Greenland 6.6m air drill.

Vaderstad 6m Rigid Tine.

AS Marston Barrel spreader.

Vaderstad Carrier CR300 cultivator.

Opico Sward 5 leg/disc cultivator.

New Quicke Q75 loader.

New Quicke Q40 loader.

New Quicke Q45 loader.

| News

The last shearing competition of the season held at The Kington Show Positive outlook for top sheep skills. isitors to Kington Show in Herefordshire (10/9/11) were treated to a fine display of sheep shearing by competitors from all over the United Kingdom.

Since they started in 2006, the shearing competitions at Kington Show have become increasingly popular, and are a testament to the numbers of talented young shearers in Britain today.

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“When it’s this much fun and so popular with the public, it’s no wonder that the BWMB shearer training courses are overflowing with keen young recruits.”

“I think the standard of shearing is very good,” said Rhydwyn Price, former Champion Shearer of Wales and one of the competition’s four committee members.

Rhydwyn believes the quantity and quality of gifted young shearers in the country today is definitely due to shearing courses run by the British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB).

“I don’t think the UK shearers would be competing with the kiwis on the level that they are at the moment without the Wool Board courses,” he says.

Welsh, English and Scottish teams all managed test wins against New Zealand this season, something that would be almost unheard of previously.

A United Kingdom team also beat New Zealand in a one-off test at the Royal Highland Show in June.

Kington Show’s own ‘international’ event was the Tri-

Nations test, new this year, between Wales, England and Scotland. It was won by the English team of Steven Lloyd and Kelly Atkinson.

Witty commentary added further entertainment value to the test and other fun events, including a veterans’ competition and a shearers versus axe-men test in which two shearers managed to shear their lambs faster than the two axe-men could chop through their logs.

Until last year, Kington Show’s bar was situated next to the shearing; the shearing has now become so popular with the general public that this year show organisers moved the bar to another area to disperse the crowds more evenly over the show field.

When it’s this much fun and so popular with the public, it’s no wonder that the BWMB shearer training courses are overflowing with keen young recruits.

cn 2002 IVECO DAILY 65 C15 BEAVERTAIL FLATBED 6 TON 171K km £6,500 2006 JCB JS260 LC EXCAVATOR QUICK HITCH 2 BKT 6000 hrs £38,500 2011 NEW FARR 800 UTV NEW £6,950 2009 JCB TM310 WASTEMASTER 5492 hrs £37,000 2008 JCB 536-60 AGRI SUPER 6148 hrs £32,500 300 / 500 GALLON BUNDED FUEL BOWSERS £850 / £1,250 / £1,500 2009 JCB 240 SC SWEEPER/COLLECTOR WITH GULLY BRUSH £3,500 2010 JCB 520-50 LOADALL 2 AVAILABLE 576/608 hrs £28,750 2007 JCB 524-50 LOADALL 1200 hrs £24,500 2007 JCB 531-70 LOADALL 3100 hrs £26,500 2005 TAKEUCHI TB 145 EXCAVATOR Q / H 3 BKTS4482 hrs. £15,500 2005 JCB 520-40 LOADALL 1901 hrs £18,500 2005 NEW HOLLAND E145 EXCAVATOR Q/H NEW TRACKS 1 BKT, 4800 hrs. £26,500 2005 JCB 535-125 LOADALL SWAY, 3000 hrs

£21,000 2008 JCB JS130 EXCAVATOR H/Q/HITCH C/CONTROL, 3 BKT 3655 hrs £36,000 2005 NEW HOLLAND E145 EXCAVATOR Q/H NEW TRACKS 1 BKT 5200 hrs £26,500 2008 JCB 535-95 LOADALL 1600 hrs £29,500 2011 NEW FARR 700 EFI UTV NEW £5,750 2008 JCB 520-40 LOADALL 904 hrs £23,500 2008 JCB 533-105 LOADALL 2500 hrs £28,500 2004 CAT TH460B TELEHANDLER 4330 hrs £21,000 2003 CAT TH360B TELEHANDLER 4000 hrs £20,000 2010 JCB 520-40 LOADAL 382 hrs £28,750 2007 JCB 535-140 LOADALL 2000 hrs £27,500 2007 AUSA C150 FORKLIFT 2WD 1090 hrs £8,500 2007 JCB 526-S LOADALL 4500 hrs £25,000

JCB TELEHANDLERS URGENTLY REQUIRED NEW TALEX GRASS MACHINERY IN STOCK: TEDDERS,TOPPERS, SHREDDERS

See website for more details • All commercial & plant +VAT Similar machines always wanted! www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 11

| News

John Deere Installs Titan CLA welcomes updated FuelMaster Fuel Tanks at gun guidance its Head Office

Sensible outcome for farmers and landowners who have legitimate uses for shotguns.

Switch driven by change to ultra low-sulphur diesel.

ohn Deere, the marketleading supplier of tractors and agricultural machinery to the British and Irish farming community, has installed two Titan FuelMaster 5000 litre tanks at its head office in Langar, Nottingham.

The installations were specified by The Oil Tank Company Ltd - Titan Accredited Suppliers and Installers based in Rutland: the company offers a full maintenance service for both commercial and domestic installations.

The Titan FuelMaster tanks replaced the existing 20,000 litre single-skinned steel tanks which had become fouled and heavily corroded over time with sludge and sediment.

Both the new plastic FuelMaster tanks are bunded (a tank within a tank), and they have dual 10micron particle and water filter fitted as standard.

The fuel from one tank will be used for on-site demonstrations of the latest tractors and other self-propelled machines, while the second tank, along with another new installation, a Titan EcoSafe 5000 bunded tank, will store oil for the company’s warehousing heating system.

The switch to the FuelMaster range has been driven by the industry shift from red diesel to ultra-low sulphur diesel, which is better suited to power the modern tractor engine. Plastic tanks will not react with the diesel components, preventing the build up of sludge and residue, and the finer filters with water traps will protect the fuel system of the demonstration fleet.

“With the change to ultra-low

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sulphur diesel and the likelihood of a bio oil content within the new fuel, we had to make sure that our fuel hygiene was top of the class,” says John Deere’s division customer support manager Bob Holt. “Our previous steel tanks were decades old, and there was no point in running the risk of contaminating the fuel systems of our demonstration machinery fleet. We are simply employing best practice, and would encourage our customers to take a long hard look at not only their fuel storage facilities but also the quality of the fuel that they are purchasing.”

The Oil Tank Company has been dealing with Titan for the last 10 years – a testament, according to the company’s founder and managing director, Simon Ellis, to both the quality of the product and the customer service they offer.

He says: “Titan has long been the market leader in fuel storage; their products and service are second to none. For example, the FuelMaster range comes fully set up ready to be installed and only require connecting to an electrical supply. We then maintain the systems after installation, typically going in after 12 to 18 months to check the filters and pipeworks.”

The FuelMaster tanks were installed with new bases and firewalls and the installation is fully compliant with Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001.

For more information on the Titan Oil Storage and Diesel Dispensing ranges call 028 3838 4444, e-mail sales@titanenv.com, or visit www.titanenv.com.

For more information on The Oil Tank Company, call 01780 782255 or email sales@oiltankcompany.co.uk.

he CLA has welcomed the Government’s decision to block a proposal that would make applying for a shot gun licence as strict as applying for a rifle licence.

The Association said the Government’s updated guidance on gun law, following the publication of recommendations from the Home Affairs Select Committee, is sensible for the interests of individuals who need shotguns for legitimate professional purposes.

CLA President William Worsley said: “I am delighted the Government has rejected the proposal to legislate the same controls to shotguns as

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to section 1 firearms. Farmers and land managers rely on shotguns as a necessary means of predator control.

“We already have a proportionate and respected system of controls on gun licensing with no significant link between armed crime and legally held shotguns.”

Mr Worsley added: “The CLA looks forward to working with the Association of Chief Police Officers to guide local forces on the issues arising from the other recommendations in the Select Committee report.”

LAA welcomes support from NSA over sheep movement database Current paper system out of date. he Livestock Auctioneers Association has welcomed the support given by the National Sheep Association for a movement database for sheep.

“The present system is out of date and following the introduction of EID tags we are now in a position to provide a high quality and accurate database that can replace the existing paper movement recording process, which is inefficient and arguably not fit for purpose”, said Chris Dodds, Executive Secretary of the Livestock Auctioneers Association.

All livestock keepers are required to keep records of all their livestock movements to ensure that livestock is both identifiable and traceable.

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Currently this is done manually.

“The time is now right for a new system which involves the whole industry; the technology now exists to make this system simple and fair to all sheep farmers. We hope that the National Farmers Union will publicly support this initiative along with other key players in the interest of the sheep industry as a whole,” added Mr Dodds.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 13

| News

Working demo day a huge success at Rickerby Ltd First hand experience of machines in action proves a great success, generating a host of quality enquiries. ast month saw Rickerby Ltd host a working demo day with Abbey Machinery, Ireland's longest established manufacturer of agricultural machinery and one of the largest in Ireland today . Doors were open to all at Rickerbys Holme depot, providing attendees an opportunity to see feeders, bedders and cultivation eqiupment in action.

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“The mixing auger design allows for a much lower horse power requirement due to its gradual flighting.”

Martyn Henderson of Rickerby Ltd commented “The day has been a huge success, with the quality of enquiries generated and customers attending being excellent. This was the first day of it’s type that we’ve hosted, providing customers with an appetiser on what the machines can really do”.

The demo day itself incorporated equipment from Abbey Machinery, Belair and Opico, showing the different options available across the ranges. Belair demonstrated their silage and straw equipment, with Opico and

Heva demonstrating their aerators, seeders and harrows.

One prduct of interest was

the Tanco 170 Bale Shear, which is a radical new method for feeding baled silage. Providing a complete system that delivers on safety, speed and reliability, the 170 Bale Shear grips the outside wrap whilst splitting a bale in half. It can slice hay, straw, and silage bales with ease, while retaining the net or plastic wrap.The system is ideal for feeding directly along feed passages or into diet feeders.

Taking the limelight were Abbey Machinery with their vertical auger mixer, which is one of the best on the market, providing unique mixing ability with inherent build quality.

“With the Abbey vertical feeder range there is a host of feed out options available, the abbey vertical feeders come as standard with two doors in the SD model which can be fitted with a discharge conveyor or a hydraulic folding chute” The Abbey vertical diet feeder range is available in 3 different options - single auger, twin auger and tri-auger.

Models have capacities ranging from 7 cubic metres up to 33 cubic metres with a host of feedout options.

The Abbey vertical feeder range comes with a host of key features and is powered by a heavy duty industrial gearbox.

This unit powers the uniquely designed mixing auger which carries out the dual function of both chopping and mixing while lifting the feed ingredients up through its gently flighted auger and then drawn down along the side and the cycle begins

14 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News again. The Abbey vertical mixer range has the ability to handle all animal feed ingredients.

Roots can be chopped and mixed with other ingredients in one operation and incorporated alongside big bales of hay, straw and silage. All ingredients can be added to make a completely mixed TMR for livestock.

The mixing auger design allows for a much lower horse power requirement due to its gradual flighting. The lower auger design allows for less floor stress when adding whole hay bales, placing much less pressure on the working parts of the machines.

With the Abbey vertical feeder range there is a host of feed out options available, the abbey vertical feeders come as standard with two doors in the SD model which can be fitted with a discharge conveyor or a hydraulic folding chute, and the RD model which is accustomed to narrower feeding situations.

The FD model is a front door cross conveyor ( single door)

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Case IH new features in the 2011 model year EfficientPower – lower fuel consumption - higher performance. synergy of innovative technologies helps to enhance the efficiency of CASE IH tractors. The central element is a new exhaust gas cleaning concept based on an SCR catalytic converter system.

With the model year 2011, Case IH is introducing the new EfficientPower system in all tractor series from 130 to 600hp.

The idea behind it is to use a wide range of technologies, especially in the tractor’s drive and control system, to improve productivity, comfort and hence to substantially enhance economic efficiency.

"EfficientPower is not only a technical component, but the intelligent interplay of highly varied technical systems in the new Case IH tractors. It ranges from a new handling concept in our tractors, characterized by very simple and intuitive handling through state-of-the-art engine technology, to an innovative exhaust gas cleaning system," explains Sylvain Blaise, Marketing Manager for Case IH tractors in Europe. "Other constituents of the EfficientPower technology are the Automatic Productivity Management (APM) and our Advanced Farming System (AFS)," Blaise continues.

The engine power for all tractors fitted with EfficientPower is greater than in the previous models. In line with the power increase, the tractor designations have been adapted for the new model year. In the Puma CVX 225 for example, the maximum power has been raised from 251 hp to 269 hp,

A which comes as standard with a chain and slat conveyor fixed but can also come with a PVC conveyor and can be either sliding or sliding and raised for feeding over troughs where there are obstacles the must be adhered to.

Both Abbey Machinery and Rickerby would like to say a big thank you to everyone who attended the working feeder/bedder and cultivation demo on the 15th September.

“Taking the limelight were Abbey Machinery with their vertical auger mixer, which is one of the best on the market, providing unique mixing ability with inherent build quality.”

more than 7%. At the same time the maximum torque has been increased from 1,025 Newton meters (Nm) to 1,160 Nm, an increase of 13%.

The Intuitive Control Panel (ICP) is integrated in the armrest, complementing the Multicontroller. Several buttons for various tractor functions provide easy fingertip operation.

They are arranged logically around a tractor diagram intuitively showing even an inexperienced driver the correct handling steps. The handling concept also includes the tractors' instrumentation. In the A pillar the displays for all the important tractor functions are integrated.

A further common control approach across the new Case IH models is the precision farming system, which is controlled via the AFS. AFS monitors and controls all tractor functions including the AccuGuideTM autoguidance system with data recording and the ISOBUS-compatible units.

"Numerous practical tests with farmers have shown that this handling concept provides substantial relief for the driver, for example on long working days, thus enhancing efficiency.

Also the induction time is much shorter compared to similar machine handling concepts.

Having such a system in all tractors of an agricultural operation yields major rationalisation benefits, exploits the tractors' potential and lowers the handling error rate," according to Blaise.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 15

| On Topic

On Topic The Food Issue

How can we create 'resilient' food systems worldwide?

With more mouths to feed, is it possible to meet the challenge of increasing worldwide food production whilst combating climate change?

he major challenge for agriculture in the 21st century is how to feed the world's growing population while creating resilient - and sustainable - food systems on a global scale. We need to ensure food security for all in the context of an increasingly challenging political, cultural and socio-economic world, while combating climate change.

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“The Centre for Agroecology and Food Security is already establishing itself as one of the country’s leading agricultural research institutes.”

While at a local level sustainable approaches to food systems are being applied there are barriers to these approaches being adopted more widely. In short there is a lack of knowledge and access to information and also a lack of resources and technology.

There is a need to create 'resilient' food systems worldwide - and at Coventry University we've joined forces with the UK's leading organic growing charity Garden Organic to establish a "Grand Challenge Initiative" around Sustainable Agriculture & Food. We believe our innovative research into agroecology and food security issues can lead to the advancement of this key issue.

When we talk about

16 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

agroecology, we mean the science of sustainable agriculture, which is based on living organisms and their interactions rather than on the science of chemistry or of economics.

Coventry University’s Centre for Agroecology and Food Security (CAFS) combines over 30 years of international research experience in Europe, Africa, South America and Asia with Garden Organic’s extensive, international network of farming organisations to deliver and share best practices in sustainable agriculture all over the world.

We are committed to finding solutions to this challenge through the creation of resilient food systems which, at a UK level, support and develop British farming and encourage sustainable food production.

Internationally - especially in developing countries - we want to help combat climate change, support adaptation and low carbon growth, enhance the environment and biodiversity to improve the quality of life for people living in these regions.

Our work focuses on the following research themes: Agri-Culture and Food Democracy – to explore cultural and political dimensions of food production, food security and food sovereignty.

Stabilisation Agriculture – to enhance the ecological and social resilience of agriculture to withstand and respond to

natural and human-induced disasters.

Transitio and Transformation Technologies – to develop technologies that ensure food nutritional security and ecosystem health.

Fair Routes to Market – to enable innovative approaches to allow access to the products of sustainable agriculture.

The ultimate aim of the new applied research centre is to undertake relevant, pioneering research to influence policy and ensure that methods of food production and supply are sustainable and socially just, particularly in parts of the world with difficult political and economic conditions.

One such area is West Africa, where CAFS has identified localised organic production methods as a sustainable solution to the region’s environmental and food security problems. Producing food organically in West Africa would be beneficial not only to local farmers by reducing costs and improving yields and income, but also to the environment by cutting back on the use of agrochemicals.

Working closely with the West African Network for Organic Agriculture, Research and Training (WANOART) – a consortium of five West African universities – CAFS is aiming to facilitate the growth of organic agricultural industry in the West African sub-region by: • training skilled

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| On Topic

On Topic

personnel, who will then become the trainers of the future; • creating a unified organic curriculum for higher education which will become a framework for future training; • developing a set of organic standards for West Africa; • creating a network for cooperation.

These actions are already in motion. Each will increase expertise in the sub-region, but they are also raising awareness and demonstrating the research centre’s ability to share and influence ideas and practices in all corners of the globe.

Other ongoing work by CAFS includes the Jamaica PRIDE (Promoting Rural Integrated Development and Enterprise) project, part of which tackles the problem of declining income from banana production in rural Jamaica; a project with the UK company Tropical Wholefoods to establish fair routes to market for organic and Fair Trade berry fruit production in Uganda; and a study into agricultural rehabilitation to devise coping strategies for home gardens in post-tsunami Sri Lanka.

With this level of research activity and as a UK member of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), the Centre for Agroecology and Food Security is already establishing itself as one of the country’s leading agricultural research institutes.

At a time when there continues to be massive disinvestment in agricultural research and extension, and when other long-standing research centres are closing

down or downsizing, our new centre shows the first green shoots of a new paradigm for agriculture emerging from the ashes, and demonstrates the bold foresight of both Coventry University and Garden Organic.

“Coventry University’s Centre for Agroecology and Food Security (CAFS) combines over 30 years of international research experience in Europe.”

Communication is key to debate on role of science in food production The Food More needs to be done to promote and explain research to the public.

Issue

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cientists, food industry and politicians must do more to communicate the benefits of agricultural technologies such as pesticides and GM crops to meet the challenge of ‘sustainable intensification’ in food production.

That was the central conclusion of last months meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Science and Technology in Agriculture.

Attended by high-level representatives from all sectors of the food chain, as well as scientists, government officials and members of both Houses of Parliament, the meeting focused on the impact of the global food security crisis on attitudes to food science, including a presentation of recent consumer research commissioned by the Crop Protection Association (CPA).

Fiona Fox, director of the Science Media Centre, highlighted the importance of direct engagement with the

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media on controversial issues such as biotechnology and crop protection, since 90% of the general public get their information about scientific developments from the media.

But while the balance of food science reporting had undoubtedly moved on from the ‘Frankenfood’ headlines of the late 1990s, some felt that agricultural scientists should still be encouraged to do more to promote and explain their research in public.

Presenting the key findings of a recent shoppers survey report commissioned by CPA, Giles Shapley of Network Research highlighted the impact of recent food price rises on consumer attitudes.

This showed increasing awareness and concern among shoppers of the factors underlying higher food costs, such as a growing world population, tighter energy and water supplies, and the impact of climate change.

For most consumers, these

issues have brought a greater recognition and willingness to embrace the role of science in boosting food supplies and keeping prices down, although many still want stronger assurances on issues such as food and environmental safety.

“Effective communication is essential to build greater confidence among consumers and policy-makers that modern, science-based farming systems can improve prospects for a secure and sustainable supply of safe, affordable food”, said CPA chief executive Dominic Dyer.

“The All-Party Group meeting provided a clear message that all sectors of the food supply chain, working alongside scientists and regulators, have a responsibility to strengthen our engagement and communication with the consuming public, both directly and through the media,” he said.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Grain

Equipment and marketing advice at UK Grain Leading specialist exhibition to deliver top quality, free independent advice to visitors.

K Grain, being held at the Exec Exhibitions Centre at the East of England Showground near Peterborough on Wednesday, 2nd November combines free independent advice clinics and topical seminars alongside an exhibition of latest equipment.

UK Grain is now firmly established as the leading specialist exhibition that concentrates solely on grain drying, handling, storage and marketing. “UK Grain is a unique event, which gets to the heart of the grain business. It brings together the best advice and equipment to help farmers ensure they deliver the quality and specification required to secure the best prices,” says Andrew Newbold, of organiser Fusion Events.

The event has gained an excellent reputation for providing in-depth advice on all topics within the grain supply chain, with industry experts offering one-to-one consultations in the GrainStorm clinics, as well as the comprehensive and highly regarded seminar programme.

All this authoritative information is

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free to all visitors and included in the entry price.

In the GrainStorm advice area visitors have access to independent, private consultations with industry experts on a range of topics including: • Best grain and oilseed marketing • Strategies to reduce risks • Growing for a specific market • Storage to suit the farm and crops The accompanying exhibition of the latest grain handling, drying and storage technology and equipment brings the industry together under one roof. Now with extra space provided by last year’s move to the new modern facilities at the Exec Exhibitions Centre at the East of England Showground, exhibitors are able to display a wider range of equipment from the smallest moisture meters to the largest mobiledriers.

All the leading manufacturers and suppliers in the industry exhibit at UK Grain and can provide exactly what is required for those looking to renew, update or adapt existing facilities.

The event provides visitors with the unique ability to discuss proposed projects with the consultants and designers as well as view and examine proposals from equipment experts.

This year’s comprehensive seminar programme continues to offer some of the best independent advice available.

This is included in the entry price, providing visitors with access to industry experts and information that often comes at a high price else where.

UK Grain 2011 Seminars • Marketing – Growing for a specific market. This seminar looks at the options and examines various contracts that may help growers secure better returns and reduce the exposure to the volatility in the commodity markets.

• Storage advice – How to best protect crops in store. The latest guidance on managing stores to maintain top crop quality. How to successfully, dry, handle and store crops and what to look out for to prevent deterioration leading to losses.

• Marketing – When will the

bubble burst? Following a run of intense price volatility a period of relatively high prices and strong futures for most commodities has brought welcome relief. But what are the prospects for prices in the future?

• Practical – How to control costs. Energy consumes a huge proportion of the total costs of drying and storing grain. This seminar provides expert advice on first calculating costs and then exploring ways to make savings through better management.

• Masterclass – grow your own fine oils. We find out how one arable farmer has created a new business from cold-pressing his own oilseed rape. He explains not only how he processes the rape, but also his strategy to market and sell the oils.

UK Grain Facts: Date: Wednesday 2nd November 2011 9am to 4.00pm Venue: Exec Exhibitions Centre at the East of England Showground near Peterborough, PE2 6XE Tickets: £10 by pre-booking on-line at www.farmsmart.co.uk/ukgrain or telephone on 0845 4900 142 otherwise £15 on the day.

“Grow your business at UK Grain” The grain business event

2011

Wednesday 2nd November

9.00am - 4.00pm

Marketing, storage, drying and handling

Tickets £15 on the day Save £5 by pre-booking Quote reference:FM www.farm-smart.co.uk 0845 4900 142 admin@farm-smart.co.uk

East of England Showground, Peterborough

PE2 6XE

18 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

Don’t neglect grain dryer maintenance tasks Mecmar offer some sage advice to ensure your equipment remains up to the job. rain dryer maintenance is crucial as it ensures safe and efficient drying. Failure to clean the drier during harvest will increase the likelihood of faults, resulting in the loss of precious time.

Limiting dust around a recirculating grain drier is a difficult business. The Mecmar grain drier features many dust control measures, such as solid screens and bubble top auger and an optional aspirator. These do reduce dust emissions but around a grain drier will always create a dusty environment. Low level maintenance is essential to maximise efficiency and safety in these conditions.

With this in mind we have prepared a quick guide to some of the key areas to keep an eye on.

To remove dust or other unwanted fines from the drier use either compressed air or a brush. Checks should be made regularly, checking at each change of crop would be a minimum. If a build up of dust or fines is seen when working around the drier it is always best to deal with it straight away.

Checks should include the following key areas: Control panel - dust and electronic components do not mix. Ensure the control panel door is closed when the drier is operating. If dust does get into the panel make sure when the drier is shut-down it is thoroughly cleaned out. Be careful not to alter any settings when doing this.

Riello burner - Do not operate the drier without the burner cover in place. Ensure that the air valves and air adjustment piston are free from dust, again being careful not to alter any settings.

Electric motors - Ensure that the motors grill and

A round-up of the story so far. he dry conditions across much of the country throughout September have allowed good progress to be made with drilling crops for 2012.

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“Where seed has been drilled into dry seed beds emergence has often been delayed and uneven.�

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HGCA Crop Development Summary

ventilation passages are free from dust and any other material to avoid overheating Screen cleaner chute check it is clear so dust and screenings can pass through the pipe Intake auger - straw or barley awns can bridge the gaps on the protective grill and slow down the driers loading rate. Keep the auger clear of these to ensure efficient loading. Also ensure any moisture that may be in the intake auger is removed before loading The main hopper - do not allow significant amounts of dust or straw to build up on any areas inside the drier, this is generally limited due to the grain recirculating. Oats are particularly bad for build up of dust and straw in the drier.

The bottom boot - at the very base of the main hopper, ensure that this area is kept free from any build up of crop, dust or fines, especially if the drier is open to the elements The plenum chamber again do not allow a build up of dust or fines in this area, also ensure that the agitator gearbox breather plug does not become blocked General chassis - it is a good practise to keep the chassis, furnace, fuel tank and hopper structure free from dust. This will reduce potential risks and also improve the working environment around the drier.

This list is not exhaustive but covers the key areas.

All winter oilseed rape crops were drilled within the optimum window, with earliest drilled crops well established at 4-6 leaf stage.

Winter wheat drilling is progressing well, with most of the first wheat area now drilled and the second wheat area started.

Winter barley drilling is well underway, with the majority of crops drilled during the last two weeks of September.

The first crops of winter oats have also been drilled. An estimated 30-40% of wheat has been drilled and 20-25% of winter barley.

In most situations there is sufficient soil moisture to achieve good, fine, firm seedbeds and seeds are germinating quickly in the warm temperatures. In some areas such as the West Midlands, the soil conditions are drier and farmers are considering delaying drilling in some cases. Where seed has been drilled into dry seed beds emergence has often been delayed and uneven.

The use of stale seedbeds to aid control of grass weeds, volunteer cereals and oilseed rape volunteers is widespread, particularly where black-grass is a problem. Their effectiveness this year may be affected due to the high dormancy of blackgrass seed which will result in a prolonged germination period.

For more information contact Mecmar Driers 200 Ltd on 01427 728186 or visit www.mecmar.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Grain

UK’s first electrically self sufficient commercial grain store Biggest privately owned solar PV panel installation in the Southwest provides the power. newly completed photovoltaic solar panel electricity generation scheme for farmer and store keeper Colin Godwin at Keysley Farm, Monkton Deverill, is now the largest privately-owned installation in south-west England. It has also resulted in Keysley’s commercial grain store becoming the first in the UK to become self-sufficient in electricity.

T H White Energy has installed 1,125 solar panels on the south-west facing roofs of the 26,400-tonne grain store, that was itself a project partly undertaken by T H White last year. The array covers an area equal to 25 cricket pitches and is expected to generate 216,000kWh of electricity per year. That’s sufficient to light up Swindon every night for a month, or to put it another way, it’s enough energy to blast a large 1,000kg estate car into orbit.

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The electricity generated by the 270kWp installation will power intake drying and cooling for the entire 26,400 tons grain capacity at the store, which handles feed wheat and oilseed rape exclusively for Openfield – Britain’s largest farmer-owned grain marketing and arable input co-operative. Today the store serves more than 80 Openfield farmers and T H White was one of the businesses involved in its expansion during 2010 with partial funding from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

It is expected that the scheme will also save over 105 tonnes of CO2 per year, equivalent to annual power consumption of 45 houses, the carbon footprint of a passenger making 16 return flights from London to New Zealand, a fullyladen Boeing 777 flying from London to Cairo, or travelling 350,000 miles in a car – equal to driving eight and a half times

around the world on existing roads!

As Keysley Farm sits in the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) extra care was taken over the appearance of the scheme. Kyocera panels were chosen due not only to their excellent performance and warranty, but also because they are black cells mounted within a black frame. Also, contrary to popular thinking about solar PV panels, they actually reflect very little light.

Cranborne Chase AONB officer Richard Burden said: “The use of black panels on the roof of Keysley Farm’s grain store has actually reduced the visual impact of the building in the landscape. Schemes such as this which generate renewable energy and help to ensure that the area is sustained as a vibrant, living, working landscape are very much in keeping with the conservation

objectives of the AONB.” The scheme was also endorsed by the Energy Change and Opportunity (ECO) Team at Wiltshire Council. Senior Climate Change Officer Vincent Albano said: “Schemes like this will make a valuable contribution to the installed renewable energy capacity for Wiltshire.”

It is anticipated that the solar PV installation at Keysley Farm will cover its costs within eight years and has an operational life expectancy of at least 25 years.

T H White Energy is part of the T H White Handling & Storage Division which specialises in bulk grain storage and processing. Other diverse areas of T H White’s business encompass agricultural, dairy and grasscare equipment, Land Rover and Subaru vehicles, Palfinger lorry cranes, construction equipment and security and fire protection systems.

See us at:

Stand No. 35

20 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

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| Grain

Ag-Bag Systems offer complete storage applications The AgBag System puts unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it.

ell proven in the UK for over 30 years, the AgBag System has numerous storage applications for today’s farmer– most commonly grass, maize, wholecrop and grain (moist and dry).

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“The Ag-Bag System puts unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it. Bag can be placed to allow convenient access to the feed”

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The AgBag System eliminates the problems of traditional storage. The exterior white layer of AgBag’s unique 3ply construction repels solar heat and keeps the bag and contents cooler. The black inner lining keeps out sunlight and preserves valuable nutrients.

With UV inhibitors to resist sun damage, each AgBag is built to last two years in rugged weather conditions, although we have known contents to still be OK after 7 years!

The airtight environment

prevents growth of aerobic bacteria, moulds and insects. It eliminates the need for dangerous chemicals and fumigants and also enhances the benefits of cool fermentation with optimal levels of lactic acid, without damaging heat build-up.

The result is an easily digestible and highly nutritious feed that livestock prefer, providing higher production without expensive feed supplements.

The AgBag System puts unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it. Bags can be placed for convenient access allowing feed to be removed with a front-end loader or be self-fed. AgBags store a wide variety of feeds, grains, crop residues and byproducts. Feed rations can be blended and balanced. The low investment cost can significantly raise profit margins.

The AgBag System has all the preservation benefits associated with extremely high quality tower silage, but with less complications. The AgBags are laid down (rather than upright),

allowing easier access.

The ability to direct your best feed to the stock most capable of exploiting it, is an important bonus of the AgBag System.

First-cut silage can be selectively bagged rather than buried with poorer second and third cuts.

Our team of nationwide trained contractors offer a fast, efficient service at a fixed price, with no hidden extras. The robust AgBag machines can fill the storage bags up to 3 tonnes per minute and we use one man and a machine to carry out the job.

Fixed Price – Our prices work out between £5.50 to £7.00 per tonne of feed stored. We charge per running metre of AgBag used, which equates to around £23 - £25 per metre. Per running metre, around 4 to 5 tonnes of material can be stored in an AgBag. If you’d like further information, take a look at our website at www.agbag.co.uk or contact us on 01363-82677 or 07836-647199…..we look forward to hearing from you!

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Grain

Wheat harvest reported down for 2011 But the situation is not as bad as first feared. he 2011 cereal and oilseed harvest has not been as bad as first feared despite this year’s extremely dry weather. Final results from the NFU’s 2011 member survey have revealed a wide variation of yields across many parts of the UK with wheat yields below average, although oilseed rape production has increased to record levels.

Winter barley crops have struggled with production down on the five year average. While the later maturing spring barley crop may have started slowly in parts of the UK, much of the area planted did eventually benefit from summer rain in England and production looks set to be above the five year average.

UK wheat production for this year is estimated at around 14.67 million tonnes, down on the five-year average by 1.5 per

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cent, with plantings up 3.9 per cent. Oilseed rape production is estimated at 2.618 million tonnes, up 29 per cent, with plantings up 12.85 per cent.

Winter barley production is estimated at 2.079 million tonnes, down 18.9 per cent, with plantings down 10.1 per cent.

Spring barley production is estimated at 3.229 million tonnes, up 3.7 per cent, with plantings up 3.8 per cent on the five year average.

This year’s NFU wheat yield estimate is 7.4 tonnes per hectare and five per cent down on the five-year average; oilseed rape is 3.8 tonnes per hectare and up 13.6 per cent; winter barley is 5.8 tonnes per hectare and 9.6 per cent down; spring barley is 5.3 tonnes per hectare with no change on the five-year average.

Ian Backhouse, NFU

Moisture Meter for combines Convenient monitoring. he Combine Moisture Meter 100 is an easy to use indicator installed in the combine cab giving the operator a continuous and dynamic display of grain moisture and temperature.

Using the same moisture sensor technology as the renowned RDS Ceres system, 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.

The six separate channels lettered A to F, are precalibrated for up to six

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different crop types and each channel has an internal audible and visual warning alarm that sounds if the preset grain moisture threshold is exceeded.

To ensure the accuracy of moisture readings, the Combine Moisture Meter 100 offers a ‘nudge’ function to manually fine-tune the moisture calibration to match a reference measurement, for example at the grain store.

The grain temperature display is also available at the touch of a button.

For more information on how RDS can help improve your farming operations - visit www.rdstec.com or call 01453 733300.

22 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

combinable crops chairman, said: “The key to understanding the impact for farmers from these results is the huge variability in yields we have seen this year, far more than in recent years. Some members have seen field or even whole farm record production in 2011, while others have had one of the poorest harvests on record.

“I believe this year’s overall wheat and winter barley yield decrease was largely due to tough growing conditions last spring, including one of the lowest ever rainfall levels recorded for the first half of the year across the majority of England. However, oilseed rape and spring barley performed far better across the UK than was feared, with the rain appearing in time to save these crops for most farmers.

"However, towards the latter part of harvest there was more variability in quality with summer rains preventing many farmers keeping up with ripening crops.

Fortunately, much of the quality milling crop was already harvested and dried before exposure to prolonged rainfall.

The current spell of dry weather will be of enormous help to those still working to complete their harvests as we move towards October, from a few in the south of England right through the UK to farmers in Scotland, and for establishing winter crops for next year’s harvest.”

Mr Backhouse also stressed how important CAP support had

been for farmers that have struggled through the dry spell.

“Many in the eastern regions, where two-thirds of England’s wheat is grown, were particularly badly affected by a lack of rainfall. And for some farmers whose yields were hit most dramatically by the extremes in weather this year, CAP support has been really important as fertiliser, fuel and other input costs have continued their extraordinary rise and will have hit margins hard. This demonstrates the value of the single farm payment in shielding farmers from the extremes of climate and market volatility.

“Farmers have invested millions in drying to preserve grain quality. The Home Grown Cereals Authority (HGCA) reports that wheat quality is very good this year, with a higher proportion expected to achieve full milling specification than for a number of years. Many report crops weighing heavier and high bushel weights are partly compensating for lower volume harvested. Oil content for rapeseed is also reported as above normal and while there have been some high protein barley crops we await the results of HGCA’s survey to learn more on the national picture for malting quality.

“Following a very dry spring and rains disrupting summer harvest in 2011, farmers invested in grain drying to protect quality and overcame a challenging season.”

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| News

First rate farm producers win coveted National Trust awards The awards, now in their sixth year, celebrate the breadth and quality of produce grown. wenty-two food and drink producers from across England and Wales are celebrating this week after winning a prestigious Fine Farm Produce Award from the National Trust.

The awards, now in their sixth year, celebrate the breadth and quality of produce grown, reared or made on land owned or managed by the National Trust, including tenant farms, orchards and gardens.

A total of 33 products from 22 producers – including dressed brown crab, red Devon beef, stoneground flour and light golden ale – have received the award. They will now be able to use the coveted Fine Farm Produce Award marque on their products. This year’s winning products were chosen from a very high standard of 47 separate entries.

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“The National Trust is passionate about using local and seasonal food in its 150 tearooms and cafes.”

Five new producers won an award this year and a total of 18 new products received the coveted stamp of approval for the first time, including the Red Devon beef from Big Red Cow in

Somerset and Parke Farm apple juice.

The beef was extremely popular with all the judges who thought it was “full of flavour with a great texture”, whereas judges considered the juice to be “characterful”, with a nice sharpness and distinctive taste.”

This year’s overall winner was hand-picked dressed brown crab, fished from the seas surrounding the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales.

Steve Harrison, who runs Aberdaron Seafood with his wife Natalie and business partner Idwal Moore, said: “This has been our busiest year ever and we’re very happy to have been chosen as overall winner this year. Winning in 2008 and 2009 really made a huge difference to our business. We supply a lot of businesses locally, but we even have a restaurant in London using our crab now.

“The award really is important to us. It’s good to have the recognition from the judges and it also really helps raise our profile.”

Rob Macklin, national agriculture and food adviser at the National Trust, said: “To even qualify for judging, all products meet strict criteria of provenance and environmental and animal welfare standards, and all primary ingredients must

meet high production assurance.

“Products that successfully pass this check are subjected to a vigorous blind taste test by a panel of judges. The appearance, preparation, colour, aroma, texture and taste all have to be at least as good as a high quality, commercially available alternative, to win an award.

Judging is therefore harsh but fair.”

The National Trust cares for half a million acres of farmland across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It works closely with its properties and tenants to help them develop high quality products.

Rob continued: “Since 2006, over 150 products have received a Fine Farm Produce Award and this year’s winners will join a group of some of the very best producers that the country has to offer.”

This year’s judging panel included Henrietta Green, food writer, broadcaster and founder of FoodLoversBritain.com; Karen Barnes, editor of delicious.

magazine and Richard McGeown, chef patron at Couch’s Great House Restaurant in Cornwall.

A full list of the award winners and details of their produce can be found online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/finefar mproduceawards The National Trust is passionate about using local and seasonal food in its 150 tearooms and cafes. Many of this year’s Fine Farm Produce Award winners sell their produce either through their own farm shop, direct to customers or online.

FUW leader slams ‘shocking’ decision to end LFA recognition Welsh Government’s action will affect nearly 80% of agricultural land in Wales.

Welsh farmers' leader today said he was "extremely shocked" by the Welsh Government's decision to abolish the Less Favoured Area (LFA) uplift within the controversial Glastir land management scheme which will affect nearly 80% of agricultural land in Wales.

"This means that for the first time in over 60 years Wales has no scheme which recognises of the hardships of farming within the LFA," said Farmers' Union of Wales president Emyr Jones.

Whilst a review of the costings has resulted in an increase in the base payments from £28 to £34, those farmers situated within the LFA, whose

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payment would have been £33.60, will only see an increase of 40p, which the FUW believes is ludicrous given the natural handicaps of farming within these areas.

"The Welsh uplands are the very reason why Wales exists.

They not only symbolise Wales, but also define Wales," stressed Mr Jones, who lobbied Agriculture Minister Alun Davies at a meeting in Cardiff only last Wednesday to re-introduce the LFA scheme Tir Mynydd.

"We must not forget that the uplands dominate our country and when we talk about the future of the uplands we are, therefore, talking about the future of what defines Wales in

terms of our landscape, our culture, and our communities.

"So we were extremely shocked that our concerns have been ignored and salt rubbed into the wound by this latest announcement just two days after meeting him.

"Glastir has been dogged by controversy ever since it was announced by the then Minister in 2009.

“The FUW has consistently voiced its concerns about the scheme and this was vindicated by the extremely low interest during the first application round and the urgent review of the scheme which was, given its terms of reference, unable to make the substantive changes

required to make it a viable proposition for farmers.

“I’m now afraid that this latest announcement will mean that Glastir will have no credibility amongst farmers at all.

"We will now step up our demands for an urgent reinstatement of Tir Mynydd as highlighted at our meeting with Mr Davies last Wednesday.

I have spoken to the Minister this morning and called for an urgent meeting to discuss his announcement.

"How can farmers trust a Government who assured us that Glastir would recognise the difficulties of farming in the uplands but now seem to have forgotten that fact?"

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Red Tractor

Changes to Red Tractor Assurance Farm Standards from October 1st 2011 Farmers should check that they meet the revised standards. rom 1st October 2011, Certification Bodies started assessing Red Tractor Assurance (RTA) farm members against the revised RTA Farm scheme standards.

The revisions are the result of a regular review of the standards to ensure they continue to be in line with legislation and reflect good agricultural practice consistent

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with industry needs and expectations. The review involved experts from across the industry and farming sectors and included a public consultation in spring 2011.

All RTA farm members received notification of the planned revision of standards in the June member newsletter. In addition, they should also recently have received further

notice of the changes from their individual Certification Body or milk first purchaser.

David Clarke, CEO at Red Tractor Assurance said: ‘At Red Tractor, we’re committed to ensuring high standards in food and farming. This latest review helps to ensure that the Red Tractor standards continue to progress in line with the latest industry needs without adding

unnecessary costs or complexity’ ‘Farmers are advised to check they meet the revised requirements and prepare for their audits in advance by reading the RTA Farm scheme addendums they have been sent or downloading a copy from the RTA website: redtractorassurance.org.uk

Red Tractor approval for Delmere Dairy goat farms Interest in goat products is on the rise both locally and internationally. elamere Dairy, the UK’s speciality dairy, is the first branded goats’ milk dairy to have all its British goat farms approved by Red Tractor. Red Tractor Assurance, formerly Assured Foods Standards, aims to provide retailers and consumers with confidence about product quality attributes of the milk leaving the farm premises, including food safety,

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animal welfare and environmental protection.

Delamere Dairy collects goats’ milk from its nine Red Tractor approved, family run goat farms across England from North Yorkshire down to Somerset. The milk is used in a range of products including fresh and long-life goats’ milk, goats’ butter, goats’ yogurt and a range of award winning goats’

cheeses.

Sold in supermarkets, independent stores and health shops throughout the UK, interest in goats’ products is also on the rise from foreign markets. Delamere Dairy goats’ products can now be seen on the supermarket shelves in Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Middle East, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Cucumber Craziness!

Red Tractor celebrate The Great British Cucumber Festival.

ucumber relay races (with cucumbers instead of batons) and a search for the “World’s Longest Cucumber” were two of the more unusual activities that occurred at the Great British Cucumber Festival.

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Members of the public were challenged to take along their longest cucumber to see if they had what it takes to beat the current world record, while the 4 x 100m cucumber relay saw teams of four compete against other growers and packhouses to secure their victory.

The festival, which was hosted by Waltham Abbey Council and UK farmers and growers, was aimed at

24 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

celebrating salads, peppers and of course, cucumbers.

“Waltham Abbey Loves Food” (the Waltham Abbey Town Partnership initiative), Abbey View, the NFU and Red Tractor joined forces at the festival to celebrate the contributions of growers from Lea Valley, UK Salads, Valley Grown Salads and Glinwell.

The event was held on Saturday, 17th September 2011 in the Abbey Gardens, Waltham Abbey, where people had the opportunity to pose with a giant cucumber mascot and listen to tunes at the “Cool as a Cucumber” main stage, which

provided a fun day out for all ages to enjoy.

David Clarke, CEO at Red Tractor Assurance, the UK’s leading quality food assurance mark, said: “This was certainly an entertaining day out for families, while helping to support all of the Red Tractor growers who were present at the event. Shoppers should look out for the Red Tractor logo for confidence in the food they’re buying and the high standards met by Red Tractor farmers and growers.”

For further information on Red Tractor visit www.redtractor.org.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Silence of the plans risks Health & Safety issues building horror story with side curtains Core planning strategies in disarray for almost half of England’s Local Authorities. ew research published by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) shows that almost half of England’s local authorities (48 per cent) will be without a planning Core Strategy on 1 April 2012 when changes to the planning system are expected to take effect. This means that when the presumption in favour of sustainable development is rolled out, nearly half the country will be very vulnerable to unplanned, poor quality development.

The problem is further compounded by the fact that two out of three local authorities are facing cuts to their planning budgets, leaving many councils struggling to get plans in place in sufficient time to protect their local green spaces.

Shaun Spiers, Chief Executive for CPRE, says: “This silence of the plans risks a real horror story for England’s unprotected green spaces. When the reforms hit, any area without a local plan will be more or less up for grabs as opportunistic developers make use of the ‘default yes to development’, which will apply when no plan exists.

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“The CPRE research found that almost half of local authorities are unlikely to have a core strategy in place by 1 April 2012. A fifth (18 per cent) are still likely to be missing a year after the new guidance comes into force.”

“All local authorities need to get their plans in place. But there also needs to be enough time and money available for them to do this and to consult with their local communities.

“We hope the Government will use this consultation period to listen to the widespread criticisms of their proposals in the draft NPPF. But they must also give councils enough time and resources to draw up quality local plans based on extensive consultation with local people.”

The proposed changes to the

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Considerations need to be made by anyone supplying or manufacturing automatic mechanised side curtains. n the last two years at least three children in Europe have died by becoming trapped in the rolling portion of automatic, mechanised side curtains fitted to agricultural buildings. The Dutch Government recently issued an alert to the manufacturers and suppliers of these products in the Netherlands.

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“Accessible in-running nips must be adequately safeguarded.“

planning system mean that wherever local plans are “absent, silent, indeterminate or where relevant policies are out of date” councils will be required to approve any development as long as developers can claim the adverse impacts will not “significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in this Framework taken as a whole”. In CPRE’s view, the Framework “taken as a whole” provides little protection against sprawling, poor quality development in the countryside. Local authorities without an up to date plan in place will find it very hard to say to say ‘no’ to development.

The CPRE research found that almost half of local authorities are unlikely to have a core strategy in place by 1 April 2012. A fifth (18 per cent) are still likely to be missing a year after the new guidance comes into force.

Here in the UK, HSE advice is that anyone supplying or manufacturing automatic mechanised side curtains in the UK or Europe should consider the following: There is a risk of an accident where unguarded inrunning nips on rollable screens are accessible to the general public and children.

European evidence suggests that most accidents occur where the screens operate automatically.

Risks also arise when an in running nip on an accessible mechanised curtain is out of sight of the operator using the control panel.

Although some of these products move much more quickly than others, even a slow moving screen (including a slow intermittent automatic motion) can trap a small child causing injury or death.

Children could be killed before their absence from a safe playing area was discovered.

As well as the fatal accidents there have been injuries related to entanglement in the inrunning nip of these curtains.

HSE stress that when first placing on the market or putting into service, manufacturers and suppliers into the UK and Europe must ensure that these products comply with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Accessible inrunning nips must be adequately safeguarded.

Where products have already been supplied and fitted, that it may be necessary to retrofit appropriate safeguards.

Further information on supplying machinery into the UK can be found on the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg27 0.htmI

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Buildings

Building redevelopment Rural farm project gets goes energy efficient £10,000 support teve Macken and his wife Deborah run their own wind farm development business, Lomond Energy, from their home just south of Loch Lomond. Although the projects they are involved with are UK wide, much of their activity is centred on Scotland. This encouraged them to buy East Cambusmoon Farm, a building in a poor state of repair but with the potential for redevelopment for both home and business use.

Given their business interest in renewable energy development, they had a natural and pragmatic desire to develop the property to high energy-efficiency standards, primarily to control costs and achieve a good return on their investment, but also to reduce their carbon footprint. Steve will readily admit that his expertise is not in designing dwellings, let alone achieving high standards of energy efficiency, which involves balancing many interrelated design issues. Even for architects, usually required to meet only minimum building regulations standards, this is new territory. In conjunction with his appointed architect, Thomas Robinson Architects, Steve was keen to find a complete design approach which would take account of all the relevant factors and present him with a manageable number of options.

He was very pleased, therefore, to discover the Association of Environment Conscious Builders’ (AECB) design standards (see www.carbonlite.org.uk), which provide a selection of prescribed details underpinned by the tried and tested PassivHaus approach, first developed in Austria and Germany.

His goal was to achieve a 70% improvement in energy consumption against the current Scottish building standards. Steve calculated that for the 2500 ft² development, this added only around 3-5% in cost, which would be recouped in a reasonably short time.

Having a comprehensive understanding of all the key factors affecting energy performance is extremely beneficial. Realistically, however, most practitioners will need some clear guidance on

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applying this knowledge effectively, confident that all major issues have been considered within the overall design approach.

Fairly early on it became apparent that renovating the original Victorian farmhouse, which was in a very poor state of repair, was not a realistic option, because of the limitations of the building and cost. It was decided to construct a new timber frame house on the same site, which gave far greater flexibility in overall design, layout and materials chosen.

The project team took a practical view on energy efficiency vs design requirements. It aimed for and achieved very good standards, which could have been specified to a higher level - but at what cost and risk overall?

This Timber Solutions Case Study considers, therefore, a project from which sound, basic lessons can be learned: It is always better to learn to walk before running. Despite our keen desire to export our sustainability expertise from the UK, we really do need to get some experience under our belt first!

The project has achieved acceptable energy goals akin to Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, a pragmatic starting point for future improvement yet not far short of the PassivHaus standard.

At this level you actually achieve a good return on investment, as incremental improvements beyond this standard can present significant risks to budget. This important factor cannot be ignored in our quest for much higher standards of performance.

The project made small changes to standard timber frame construction details to achieve significant efficiency gains without the need for specialist building skills and materials.

After nearly one year of measuring energy consumption, the results show a 15% improvement on the design values specified. So it works! For a comprehensive historical journey of their selfbuild project visit www.eastcambusmoon.blogsp ot.com

26 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

Cornish Mutual deliver financial support. project in Cornwall to provide affordable housing and workspace for farming families is receiving £10,000 worth of funding from rural insurance firm Cornish Mutual.

The company, which is based in Truro, is making the significant donation to farming charity the Addington Fund to put towards supporting the conversion of a single storey building to a workshop at the Ruthvoes Farm Project, near Indian Queens.

Cornish Mutual has a long and proud history of working within the rural community and supporting families and activities in communities in which their Members live. The company has also previously given financial support to the Addington Fund.

The site was purchased by the Addington Fund from Cornwall Council and planning permission was granted for four work/live units, providing viable business options to local farm businesses and families.

The redundant buildings include an old barn that will be converted into four new family homes, an old single storey building which will become a new workshop, and alongside this there will be three more workshops.

There is also sufficient land to create a land-based business on the site. Ground source heating will provide heat for the whole site and solar panels will be installed on the roof of the new build workshop complex.

Alan Goddard, Managing Director of Cornish Mutual, says: “This is such a worthwhile scheme that we couldn’t not be involved in helping the Addington Fund to bring this

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fantastic project at Ruthvoes Farm near Indian Queens to fruition. Farming families are the absolute lifeblood of the rural community in Cornwall and as a mutual organisation; we are firmly committed to supporting any initiative that will make a real difference for future generations.”

This is the second project of its kind embarked on by the Addington Fund. In 2006, the charity successfully completed its first affordable housing development in Cornwall. The Trevorva project created five affordable homes from three redundant barns targeted at retired tenant farmers.

Ian Bell, the Addington Fund’s Director, adds: “We are extremely grateful to Cornish Mutual for their generous contribution to the Addington Fund for the regeneration of Ruthvoes Farm and would like to thank them for all their support.

We have already received enquiries from three farming families and we are confident this development will have a very positive impact by bringing four working families into a community which is becoming very influenced by second-home owners.”

The total cost of the project will be in the region of £1.2 million, with £422,000 coming from the South West RDA towards the cost of developing the workshop element of the scheme.

The charity will need to secure all funding before building work on the project can commence. The estimated date for completion is 2013.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

RIDBA holds CE marking seminars Two seminars to take place offering advice for compliance. dvice on how steel-framed building manufacturers and fabricators can minimise the cost of complying with soon-tobe compulsory CE marking is being offered in two seminars organised by the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA).

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“RIDBA members supply over 50% of the UK agricultural market and over 12% of the total single-storey steel-framed market.”

The seminars, in Carlisle on October 26th and Swindon on November 9th, will explain the CE marking issue as it affects steel frame manufacturers in the agricultural and industrial sectors, and how RIDBA can help them comply more costeffectively.

This leg-up on the legislative ladder was created by RIDBA in a link-up with TRADA Technology, the leading independent timber research,

consultancy, testing and information provider for the UK construction industry, and the Steel Construction Institute (SCI).

As well as hearing from RIDBA chairman Geoff Simpson, managing director of the awardwinning Simpson & Allinson Group, and vice-chairman Antony Lowther, managing director of AJ Lowther & Son, the seminars will also feature presentations from BM TRADA project co-ordinator Niresh Somlie and SCI associate director Dr Martin Heywood.

The link-up gives RIDBA members preferential access to the factory production control manual and the design protocol required by fabricators for the CE marking of steel framed buildings. This will markedly reduce their costs in meeting the requirements to CE Mark their frames.

RIDBA has worked closely with BM TRADA, TRADA Technology and SCI since 2009 to ensure its members are fully prepared when CE marking

SteelFramed Building Division

becomes mandatory under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) which has replaced the Construction Products Directive (CPD) CE marking is not currently compulsory in the UK but after July 2013 it will become a criminal offence to supply a frame without a CE mark. This will demonstrate both compliance with the Construction Products Regulation - which is mandatory - and that the buildings are fit for purpose under BS EN 1090 Part 2 ‘Execution of Steel Structures and Aluminium Structures’.

There are timber- based standards in the pipeline as well.

RIDBA members supply over 50% of the UK agricultural market and over 12% of the total single-storey steel-framed market. They erect more than 5,500 agricultural and industrial buildings a year and supply an area of almost 2million²m of

steel-framed buildings.

The Carlisle seminar will be held at the Best Western Cumbria Park Hotel, on Scotland Road, Carlisle, and the Swindon one at the Blunsdon House Hotel, The Ridge, Blunsdon, both between 10am and 3pm.

Tickets are available online: www.ridba.org.uk/seminar.htm

“The seminars, in Carlisle on October 26th and Swindon on November 9th, will explain the CE marking issue as it affects steel frame manufacturers in the agricultural and industrial sectors.”

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October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Feature

UK scientists help to crack the genetic code on eggshell quality SABRE research project delivers benefits on food safety and animal welfare. uge benefits in food safety and quality, animal welfare and sustainability are set to result from the findings of a major EU research project into food production.

UK companies and academic institutions played a key role in the four and half-year, €23 million pan-European SABRE project which used the latest techniques in genetic science to develop more economically and environmentally sustainable production systems for dairy cattle, pigs and chickens.

The key objectives of the project, which was made possible by a grant from the EU Sixth Framework Programme, were to deliver a range of new breeding strategies to improve animal health and welfare, minimise livestock waste and pollution and maximise food safety and quality. €4.5 million of the EU’s €13.9 million contribution was allocated to UK organisations.

The programme of work involved over 200 scientists from 36 organisations operating across 12 research, development and communication packages.

These harnessed key areas of emerging genomic science to generate new knowledge and apply it in practical breeding improvement strategies throughout Europe.

The research was conducted across a wide range of areas including enhancing eggshell quality, improving animal behaviour linked to welfare, reducing mastitis in dairy cattle, eliminating boar taint in pigmeat and improving fertility of livestock in general.

The work on eggshell quality has the potential to drastically reduce the incidence of salmonella outbreaks. Poor shell quality leads to increased numbers of cracked or damaged eggs which, in turn, encourages bacterial infections. Just 10% fewer cases of human salmonella infections across the EU would save about €400 million each year.

In addition to its importance to the consumer, egg quality is also a key concern for breeders and farmers of laying hens, as it has a direct impact on both the

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lifespan of birds and their marketability.

The team developed new tools to measure aspects of eggshell structure which underlie egg safety and quality as well as molecular tools to improve the efficiency of selection. These will enable breeders to select hens which lay stronger eggs that are less susceptible to bacterial infections.

The SABRE project was coordinated by Edinburghbased Biosciences Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN), which works to convert the UK's bioscience knowledge into innovative agricultural, food and industrial bioscience products and processes. The Biosciences KTN’s activities in the SABRE project were funded by the Scottish Government, the European Regional Development Fund and the EU Sixth Framework Programme.

UK companies contributing to the project included Aviagen, the world leader in poultry genetics, Biobest which specialises in veterinary virology, serology and DNA diagnostics and Argentix which provides commercialisation and businessstructuring support to fledgling technology enterprises.

In addition to the Roslin Institute, other academic partners included the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, the Institute for Animal Health, the University of Glasgow and the Scottish Agricultural College.

A separate programme of work was aimed at reducing the incidence of mastitis amongst cattle. An inflammatory reaction in cows’ mammary gland, mastitis is the most costly disease amongst dairy cows, amounting to an annual figure of €2 billion in Europe alone.

The SABRE research identified genes and genetic pathways involved in the immune response of dairy cows and has greatly improved understanding of how

28 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

these function in bovine mastitis.

Increasing resistance to mastitis will decrease use of medicines while also improving animal welfare, food safety, product quality and breeders’ economic returns.

Toine Roozen, International Manager at Biosciences KTN, commented: “The SABRE research has potentially enormous benefits for the consumer, for animal welfare and for the environment. The efficiency and sustainability of food production is improved year-on-year by the world’s animal and plant breeders and, because breeding is cumulative, even small enhancements to the rate of this improvement can have very large impacts over time. The use of new genomic technologies could be worth in excess of £20m a year to the UK alone.

“It’s also important to stress that, as well as the many scientific benefits which result from SABRE, there are also enormous spin-offs for UK companies working in the life sciences arena. The Biosciences KTN has become an international hub in knowledge transfer for the benefit of the UK; not only in animal genomics but also in the plant, food and industrial bioscience sectors.

“SABRE epitomises the huge value of EC research projects and has already led to Biosciences KTN attracting additional funding for two more genomic programmes - the “Quantomics”

project on the availability of technologies and tools for the economic exploitation of livestock genomes and the “3SR” project on Sustainable Solutions for Small Ruminants (sheep and goats). The UK element in “3SR” consists of research into parasite resistance in Scottish Blackface sheep.

“The UK has an excellent reputation for the high quality of its research. There is a tremendous opportunity for firms in the sector to take further advantage of the opportunities for collaboration and to maintain and enhance the UK’s position in the global marketplace.”

Dr Ian Dunn, who coordinated the research into eggshell quality at the Roslin Institute, commented: “There are obvious applications emerging from the work we’ve completed on cuticle measurement in eggs which will almost immediately help to deliver clear improvements in terms of human health and enhanced hygiene in hatcheries.

“The added value of SABRE and projects like it is the unexpected benefits which can arise from the collaborative nature of research and we’ve seen that in areas such as, for example, the improved hatchability and quality of chicks in eggs.

“These ‘added bonuses’ highlight the value both of the funding and of the collaboration which brings together diverse groups offering a range of skills.

As well as the obvious, almost immediate, benefits which will ensue from SABRE, we would expect the links which have been established to bring further improvements in the longer term.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Dairy

Morrisons to set up Focus Farms network Aiming to help farmers meet the economic and environmental challenges of building sustainable businesses for the future. orrisons, the UK’s fourth largest food retailer, is working with dairy farmers to set up a network of Focus Farm Events across Britain.

The events will focus on relevant topics selected by the farmers and the initiative has been developed by Dairy Crest Direct Forum (DCD) representatives, who have worked with Morrisons and their milk purchaser, Dairy Crest. DCD believes that a network of Morrisons Focus Farms has the potential to help farmers meet the economic and environmental challenges of building sustainable businesses for the future.

The first Focus Farm Event has been held near Stourbridge in the West Midlands, where Richard Pearman milks 240 cows and supplies his milk

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through Dairy Crest.

Each Focus Farm Event will provide a base for activities that have the potential to improve efficiency and cut costs. At the same time, the activities will be aimed at reducing the dairy sector’s carbon footprint in to order to meet UK Government targets. Neighbouring farmers have the opportunity to be part of the network, sharing ideas and best practice.

Through its Farming Programme, Morrisons will encourage the Focus Farm groups to suggest areas that would benefit from applied research. An example already completed is a pilot project with DCD members to analyse and benchmark the Carbon Footprint of 100 dairy farms in England and Wales. Also launched from this West Midlands Focus Farm

event was a project led by vet and DairyCo national specialist Karen Lancaster. This involves practical farm workshops to develop the use of Cow Signals, an increasingly popular tool to improve cow health and welfare.

Morrisons Head of Agriculture, David Evans, said: “We know that farmers learn best from other farmers and that’s why we believe the Focus Farm model works so well. I’m delighted that our Dairy Crest farmers are so positive about developing a network of their own. I’m confident these will become a hotbed of good ideas

which, backed by the Morrisons Farming Programme, can really make a difference to the whole dairy industry sustainability tackling both economic and environmental challenges.”

Commenting on the event, Richard Pearman, Chairman of the DCD Forum, said: “I was delighted to host this first Morrisons Focus Farm event at my family’s farm here in the West Midlands. The feedback from fellow farmers was positive and DCD looks forward growing the relationship with Morrisons, one of our key retail customers.”

DeLaval equips largest livestock research centre in Europe at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) Unique research environment where new technologies can be tested. t the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences´ new Swedish Livestock Research Centre at Uppsala-Lövsta, international and private enterprise researchers will be offered a unique research environment, where new animal production technologies can be researched and tested. The facility will conduct research of the highest quality in animal welfare, animal health, climatesmart animal management and sustainable food production.

DeLaval has won the bid to supply the Swedish Livestock Research Centre with equipment.

“SLU in Sweden will have Europe’s most modern facility for teaching and research on cows, pigs and poultry. SLU has a long tradition of providing

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important research for our business on how to improve animal welfare and dairy production; we believe that the new Swedish Livestock Research Centre will even further enhance the quality of the research that is done today”, says Joakim Rosengren President & CEO, DeLaval.

The new centre will work with both the DeLaval Voluntary Milking System (VMS) and the DeLaval Automatic Milking Rotary (AMR™) system in addition to a wide range of DeLaval products and solutions that are integral to the DeLaval Smart Farming concept. The DeLaval Smart Farming strategy aims at influencing and shaping the future of dairy farming today; it is about innovative and not least integrated -

decision tools and automation that support farm management.

Smart Farming aims to accelerate the transition from milking management to global farm profitability management by harnessing emerging decision tools and automation technologies for better quality milk and profits.

The HYPERLINK "http://mediatlasei.prnewswire.c om/Url.aspx?1007829x9920x18 2221"DeLaval AMR™ was developed with three key customer benefits in mind; profitability, farm management, and flexibility. The main components of the AMRTM are teat preparation, attachment and teat-spray modules, two touch screens to operate the system, automatic cup back flush, automatic floor cleaning,

and safety systems. The first AMRTM systems will have up to 90 cow/hour capacity, depending on the number of robots installed. As many as five robots can be attached to the rotary. The system will be fully operational at Lövsta in November.

“We have a long standing cooperation with DeLaval on numerous research projects. In the bidding process to supply equipment to the Swedish Livestock Research Centre DeLaval offered the most competitive solution” says Kerstin Svennersten Sjaunja, dean at SLU’s Faculty for Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science.

The opening ceremony will be in the late spring of 2012.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Dairy

The Dairy Event and Livestock Show: Building success at The NEC Event goes from strength to strength as visitor numbers and exhibitor space continue to increase. he Dairy Event and Livestock Show staged at The NEC early September built on the huge success of its inaugural event at the venue held in 2010.

Both visitor and exhibitor numbers to the two day event staged on Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 September staged by organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, demonstrated the industry’s continuing support for the UK’s leading livestock business to business event.

“The event was buzzing throughout and we were thoroughly pleased by the industry’s positive response to our developments to the event during the last two years which was reflected in trade stand space increasing by 32% and visitor numbers up 10% at a time when the number of UK dairy

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producers has declined by 8%,” comments RABDF chief executive, Nick Everington.

“Furthermore, the event has achieved a 42% increase in visitor attendance over the last eight years.

“Exhibitors, both indoors and outdoors, were busy throughout the two days, with many reporting quality enquiries and record levels of business achieved as visitors poured in to The NEC, travelling by car, train and plane. We were also pleased with our new international visitors lounge which attracted visitors from 27 countries worldwide.

“In addition, visitors were keen to take home new information and advice from the new RABDF Business Debates and New Smithfield workshops along with the Feed Science

Forums and Farm Health Planning seminars, all of which could be readily applied to visitors’ farming systems the following day. Outdoors, the new silage chopper feeders and cubicle bedder demonstrations proved to be popular enabling farmers to make comparisons of equipment available and subsequently make more informed buying decisions.”

He adds: “Both first time

New DairyCo workshops to develop dairy business strategy Invaluable business knowledge on offer to dairy farmers nationwide. airyCo is running a series of Planning for Profit workshops designed to support dairy farmers with business planning and strategy.

The workshops will take place around GB in autumn/winter with the aim of helping farmers to develop

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sound business goals and a plan for the future that will give them a greater chance to take their business forward and maximise profits.

Helen Brookes, DairyCo product manager explains: “Making business decisions is never easy, particularly when

30 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

you’re wrapped up in the day to day running of your farm.

Planning for Profit has been designed to enable you to develop a strategic business plan by taking time away from the farm and giving you the opportunity to investigate and discuss your options with

visitors to the event at The NEC, as well as those making a return visit, found the venue, with its very modern facilities, reflected the industry as up to date and progressive, in particular to retailers and processors, international visitors, the next generation and new recruits.

Furthermore it proved to be a secure platform on which to continue to not only consolidate, but build the event.”

consultants and fellow producers.”

The workshop gives dairy farmers the opportunity to test different business scenarios and is delivered by tutors with knowledge of financial and physical aspects of the industry. It is a chance to ask questions such as ‘what if I want to get 100 more cows, build a new shed, get an extra member of staff, or retire Dad out of the business?’. And it’s an opportunity to see what impact those changes will have on the business performance,

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Dairy

RABDF Livestock Machinery and Equipment Award goes to Dairy Spares RABDF created the award for exhibitors to the Dairy Event and Livestock Show to recognise the importance of machinery and equipment to the current and future profitability of the livestock farming industry. he RABDF Livestock Machinery and Equipment Award made to the product that delivers the most economic value to the livestock sector was presented to Horn’Up Farm Rechargeable Dehorner from Shropshire firm, Dairy Spares, of Whitchurch, at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show, this week at The NEC, Birmingham.

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“The judges appraised each of the seven entry’s innovation, its economic advantages to the farmer, running costs including replacement parts and prices, servicing requirements and more” before making any commitments.

Middlesborough dairy farmer, Mark Fletcher, did the pilot workshop earlier this year: “Planning for Profit gave me the knowledge and confidence to make the change that works for the whole farm,” he says.

Dairy farmers interested in finding out more about the course can contact Helen Brookes, DairyCo, on 02476 478865 / helen.brookes@dairyco.ahd b.org.uk

he profitability of the World Wide Sires (WWS) progeny on display at the UK Dairy Event received much admiration from over 600 farmers that attended the WWS stand at the show.

The four progeny on display were sired by the company’s leading bulls that collectively showcase top scores for type, production, health and fitness.

Despite travelling over 700 miles between them to the event, the animals looked on top form over the two days making a lasting impression on stand vistors.

England-Ammon Million daughter, Hillhead Million Margot, advocated the high type, production, width and power that

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“The entry was a clear winner,” commented RABDF council member, Mark Roach chairman of the three-strong judging team. “The dehorner is widely applicable to all dairy producers regardless of herd size, as well as beef farmers; it is an advancement for both animal welfare and ease of staff use, and it has economic value in terms of time saving.

Furthermore, it was very well displayed and presented to us, and it comes at an affordable price.”

A certificate of merit was awarded to Lely’s I-Flow, the company’s latest milk robot which the judges commended for its walk through design. “This was the most cow friendly robot

we’d seen which allowed the cow to walk straight in and out without encountering any obstacles thereby increasing throughput and improving efficiency,” said Mr Roach RABDF created the award for exhibitors to the Dairy Event and Livestock Show to recognise the importance of machinery and equipment to the current and future profitability of the livestock

farming industry. The judges appraised each of the seven entry’s innovation, its economic advantages to the farmer, running costs including replacement parts and prices, servicing requirements, safety features, energy usage, potential market and list price.

Dates and places are:

Where

When

Contact

Telephone

Telford

Oct 19/20

Hugh Black

01568 614310

Carmarthen

Nov 2nd/3rd

Richard Davies

01824 790214

East Midlands

Nov 14/15

Judith Stafford

01335 390023

Scotland

Nov 23/24

Heather Wildman

01290 338273

Lancashire

Dec 6/7

Karen Lancaster

01524 781750

Worcestershire

Jan 18/19

Hugh Black

01568 614310

Staffordshire

Feb 1/2

Judith Stafford

01335 390023

Feb 21/22

Andy Dodd or Shirley Macmillan

01531 890559 / 07766 402393

East

her sire delivers in abundance.

Calved bang on two-years, as the only milking Million daughter in the UK prior to the event, to be selected as one of the best four WWS animals in the country and to be transported 230 miles from Lockerbie, Scotland, speaks volumes for the Outside son.

Million has almost 2,000 registered progeny to date and over the last two months is a top 10 sire for UK registrations.

Regancrest Design sired two of the four progeny daughters, Topcroft Design Daphne VG88 3yr and Harhill Design Rhompus 5 VG88 2yr. First making an appearance on the stand last year as +10,000kg heifers, the

medium-sized pair returned to the stage as second lactation threeyear olds – evidencing the fertility, staying power and overall strength transmitted Design daughters as they mature. Out of 110 classified progeny, 77% are scored GP or better including 25 VG two-year olds, four VG88-point heifers and one VG89.

Luck-E Goldwyn Autopilot completed the group with daughter, Lovelyhall Pilot Pam. Calved 6 July, this femine, silky skinned, no-holes animal is currently giving 32.6kgs. As an exceptional health trait sire, Autopilot is the highest ranking bull in the WWS UK portfolio for combined fertility (+7.0), low cells

(-26) and transmits a voluminous +623kgs milk.

Key Account Manager, Bryan Challenor says: “The four daughters on the stand are real working cows that have had no special treatment and get on with the job themselves. Two of them are from 180-cow sized herds and the others are 130-cow and 60cow respectively, their breeders tell me that they are a pleasure to work with and enjoy having them through the parlour.”

For more information contact your local WWS Breeding Consultant or call FREEPHONE: 0800 1613371.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Hedge/Verge

Twiga Pro - the professional’s choice Spearhead has unveiled its new flagship range of reach mowers – the state-of-the-art Twiga Pro series.

hese superb new machines have been specially designed to meet the needs of professional users and offer exceptional reach, a best-ever feature set, and outstanding build quality.

So what does the new series offer to set it apart from the competition?

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Reach and stability

The Twiga Pro machines allow customers to handle even the most challenging jobs – providing a maximum reach of between 5.6m to 8.0m when fully extended. Six different models are available: The 560 (5.6m reach), 650T (6.5m reach with telescopic arm), 700T, 800T, 600 VFR, and the 650 VFR. Stability is guaranteed by three-point linkage – or optional axle mounting. The 800T features axle mounting as standard.

Each model features parallel arm geometry that allows smooth extension in a straight line without the need for constant repositioning.

“Spearhead offers outstanding precision with our new Pro Pilot control set.”

Build quality and reliability

A series of enhancements have been introduced to ensure the Twiga Pro machines offer the best in reliability – boosting the lifespan of the machine and protecting the machines through the heavy use of the professional contractor.

The machines offer a series of features to boost durability, including: Robust one-piece mainframe and tank design Wider 50mm main pivot pins with coated bushes to reduce loads and strengthen the arm Encased hoses minimise the risk of damage and give the machine a smarter, tidier new look A break-back feature that allows the arm to retract to a safe position the moment it comes into contact with an obstacle, preventing major damage And an ergonomic design that allows easy-access to key hydraulic components at the top of the oil tank for hassle-free maintenance

Outstanding feature set

Spearhead have risen to the challenge of delivering a reach arm with the kind of featurepacked specification that can meet the needs of even the most demanding professional users.

Variable Forward Reach allows an operator to adjust the position of the cutting head for peak performance and visibility.

Contractors can also work in tighter spaces by positioning the flailhead behind the wheel, or work with the head directly in line with the cab and get the best view for safer, more effective cutting.

Other key features include:

Autopilot – an advanced hands-free control system that enables the flailhead to automatically follow the ground contours when verge mowing to increase working speed and

32 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

efficiency.

High-powered, totally independent hydraulics for maximum performance A hydraulic slew for cutting directly behind the tractor And telescopic arms on our 650T, 700T, and 800T models which provide extended reach and stable extension.

Precise control

Spearhead offers outstanding precision with our new Pro Pilot control set. The system is based on tried and tested engineering technology and delivers smooth proportional control of three distinct functions simultaneously (height, reach and head angle).

Pro Pilot has been designed to withstand tough terrain and challenging dusty conditions and is operated through an ergonomic joystick which provides light, intuitive finger-tip control.

Ease of transport

Spearhead reach arms are designed to get contractors to and from jobs quickly and safely without stressing the machine while in transit.

The hydraulic slew is a key factor, allowing the arm to be rotated backwards into a safe

transport position that is just 2.46m wide, while the cushioned top link absorbs the shock load of the tractor and improves driver comfort.

Spearhead also provides an LED lighting kit as standard for added safety.

Perfect finish

The Twiga Pro series features our state-of-the-art MP2 flailhead which comes in 1.2m and 1.5m cutting widths and the HD Flailhead which offers a 1.2m to 1.6m cutting range.

The flailhead comes with belt or direct-drive options, a heavyduty rotor with a spiral flail layout, full-width sliding options for extra reach, and a choice of four different flails depending on the job to be tackled.

The HD is perfect for tackling tough jobs and comes complete with a heavy-duty steel nudge bar, and a robust roller with selfaligning bearings.

Accessories and attachments

The Twiga Pro series also offers a range of attachments, including: A four-blade quadsaw Cutterbars A ditch and grip cleaner Prices start from £29,146.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Hedge/Verge

McConnel unveils new range of power arms Quality, reliability and performance from the new 70-series Power Arms - built for for professionals. range Variable Forward Reach configuration, which improves visibility, comfort and safety.

State-of-the-art design

At the heart of the machines is a new and upgraded 70hp gear hydraulic system, which replaces the 65hp unit from the previous models. Performance has also been boosted thanks to the introduction of a highcapacity oil cooler.

Other improvements include:

cConnel has just launched the new 70-series power arms which have been specially designed for professional contractors and large-scale farmers and offer outstanding quality, reliability, and performance.

Built from super strength Domex steel, which makes our Power Arms stronger and lighter than the competition, the new

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machines offer more power, a higher specification, and the very best in build quality.

Four new models are available, with a choice of varying reach configurations starting at 5.5 and 6.0m and moving up to the 6.5m and 7.0m telescopic arm machines.

Customers can also choose between a standard fixed arm, a mid-cut option, or our top-of-the-

A new “soft-start” rotor which dramatically reduces the initial start-up loads and stresses traditionally associated with high horsepower reach mowers.

An optional mechanical rocker stop that allows full movement of the arms when they are in the working position but flips up when they are folded into transport mode to prevent excess movement which could damage the machine. The stop can be adjusted to suit different makes of tractor.

A new and improved cooling system.

Putting you in total control

Four different control packages are available on all

models, including the popular XTC proportional controls and the top of the range REVOLUTION control system, which offers more functionality and features our award winning Easy Drive System, which significantly increases working speeds.

To help customers create the perfect product to match their needs, a wide range of other options is available. Cutting attachments include a range of MultiCut flailheads with a choice of flails, a heavy-duty rotary head, a Ditch and Grip Cleaner, and a selection of sawheads and cutterbars.

A superb new look

The 70 series boasts an exciting new look – featuring McConnel’s eye-catching new livery which marks the arrival of our next-generation machines.

The new models are among the first with a yellow tank and black arm – a reverse of our old colour scheme. All new products will be identified with this colour scheme.

Retail prices start from £26,000.

McConnel bring cutting edge to Oxford City Council Oxford City Council has chosen McConnel to supply the cutting-edge technology it needs to maintain its grass and hedgerows. he council has just purchased a state-of-the-art McConnel PA6070 VFR power arm and flailhead hedgecutter to keep the city in trim, and sees it as the perfect tool for the challenging urban environment where precision, control and manoeuvrability are crucial.

The council chose McConnel because the state-ofthe-art hedgecutter comes complete with a series of hightech features which make it ideal for working in the congested conditions of the city.

These include: Variable Forward Reach, which allows the driver to position the hedgecutter precisely where they want it – whether it’s behind the tractor unit or alongside it. This dramatically improves precision, control and operator comfort.

Parallel Arm Geometry, allowing full and precise extension of the power arm in a single movement with no loss of control – a feature that speeds

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up hedge cutting and ensures a high-quality finish.

Excellent build quality. All McConnel models are precision-engineered in the UK at our award-winning factory and are constructed from superstrength Domex Steel for durability.

And precision control systems, which allow the driver to keep their eyes forward for improved safety and driver comfort.

Graham Dix from Oxford City Council’s Grass Maintenance Team has been putting the hedgecutter through its paces and is delighted with the significant upgrades the machine offers.

He said: “It’s fantastic. It’s very comfortable to use and is very precise with its cut.”

Grounds maintenance supervisor Andy Wharton explained: “Graham researched other hedgecutters and he felt it had the best features. It was the most comfortable to operate,

and will provide the best reliability – a key factor in a city environment where we constantly encounter speed bumps and work in confined spaces which have the potential to cause wear and tear issues.”

The Council also wanted to protect Graham from the risks of back and neck strain, with comfort and control key factors in the specification.

Oxford City Council

purchased the machine from McConnel distributor PA Turney of Middleton Stoney.

Turney’s sales manager Nigel Barker explained: “The council has made a very good decision to buy quality because in the long term it’s the best option – it will mean less downtime for maintenance, a faster and more efficient performance, and improved comfort and health and safety.”

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Tillage

Tillage Live 2011 Single site format and new action area prove popular. illage-Live, the national cultivations demonstration was held on 14th September 2011 near Abingdon, Oxon.

Alongside all the latest equipment at work, this year’s single-site format included new Action Areas, which provided detailed information about a range of important and topical subjects.

“In the new Knowledge Trail visitors received in-depth advice from industry experts on a range of topical issues, and had the chance to gain NRoSO and BASIS points,” said organiser Duncan Russell of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA). “Tillage-Live is the largest cultivations demonstration in the UK and is supported by AEA members as well as open to other exhibitors from the industry. It provides a

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complete overview of the entire establishment process.”

“Top farmers’ and growers’ establishment regimes are no longer focused solely on cutting costs,” added Mr Russell. “While many new regimes do, indeed, bring considerable savings, they take an inclusive approach that saves fuel and protects the soil, which also leads to higher operating efficiency.”

Examples of all the elements in these integrated systems was on show in the new Action Areas at Tillage-Live. Industry-leading advice was available on how to control black-grass with cultivation and chemical combinations and provided a close look at curing compaction, protecting soil structure and how to set equipment for the best results. Further practical advice demonstrated the most effective

ways to apply slug pellets to gain the best control while protecting the environment.

Visitors were able to not only see the latest sprayers on show, but also had the opportunity to try them out in the new working area. Here operators were also able to gain practical advice on how to rinse containers more efficiently and take part in a container cleaning survey.

Guidance and steering took centre stage in another Action Area and here, again, operators were able to get in the seat and gain practical ‘hands on’, or

rather ‘hands off’, experience of automatic steering. Allied to the availability of more affordable and highly accurate steering signals are rapid developments in Controlled Traffic Farming and at Tillage-Live visitors were able to learn all about this latest technique from top advisers and users.

Tillage-Live, the national cultivations demonstration, presented new and stimulating ideas on how to adopt new practices or adapt systems to cope with today’s cultivation and establishment challenges.

Claydon celebrate 10 years of direct drilling It’s fitting that Tillage hosts H. Walker & Sons run a Clayton SR drill. his year marks the 10th anniversary of the development of the Claydon direct drill, during which time the company has led the way in the development of UK strip tillage, which has resulted in a considerable saving in time and establishment cost.

It is therefore appropriate that this year’s Tillage-Live should be hosted by H Walker & Sons who run a Claydon SR drill. On their plot at the event, Claydon will be demonstrating the complete Claydon Strip Drilling System, running both a 6.00m Claydon Hybrid drill and the new Claydon Straw Harrow.

Such is the effectiveness of the Claydon System, aside from a considerable reduction in establishment costs, recent trials have shown a 26% increase in wheat yields compared to a conventional plough-based establishment system, helping boost crop returns by £333/ha at current crop values .

The development of the Claydon System was the brainchild of farmer/inventor Jeff Claydon as a means of reducing costs, whilst achieving improved timeliness and crop performance from his heavy clay soils at Wickambrook near Newmarket.

Whilst the Claydon drill forms a central part of the system and

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is key to creating drainage, eliminating compaction whilst retaining moisture and soil structure, the new Claydon Straw Harrow also has an important role to play in ensuring optimum results.

Claydon Straw Harrow

For direct drilling to work properly, effective weed control is essential if the weed burden is to be controlled and crop competition eliminated to ensure optimum germination levels.

Whilst creating a stale seedbed in order to encourage weed seed germination ahead of spraying off is nothing new, this has tended to rely on light cultivations, which can result in uneven weed germination if done too deeply.

The new Claydon Straw Harrow has a working width of 7.50m and is designed to be both quick, and so cheap to operate, and to only stir the top 1.0-2.5cm in order to encourage chitting for more effective herbicide control.

The Straw Harrow consists of five banks of hard-wearing double-coil spring tines, the angle of which can be hydraulically altered in order to achieve a more ‘aggressive’ action, and can typically be used at a high operating speed of up to 25 kph, so allowing outputs of

34 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

around 12ha/hour to be achieved.

Patented 2-tine strip tilling system

Central to all Claydon drills and key to providing the optimum growing environment for seeds is the patented 2-tine strip tilling system.

In developing the Claydon Strip Till System and recognising what would be needed to achieve the best results on both his heavy clay and other soil types, a key component for Jeff Claydon was the need to eliminate compaction below the seed, both for soil drainage but also to provide a free soil structure for root development.

In order to achieve this, the first element in the patented 2tine system are staggered frontraked tungsten breaker tines that can be set to work at up to 18cm. Following directly in line with each breaker tine is a winged ‘A’ blade, which is designed to lift the soil to allow the seeding boot to inject a band of seed directly under the lifted soil. Depending on conditions, typically a 17cm blade is used for most conditions and seed types, but 12cm and 7.5cm wide ‘A’ blades are also available for smaller seeds and wetter conditions. A special knife is also available for

drilling beans.

One of the greatest strengths of the Claydon Strip Tilling System is the reduction is establishment costs. A considerable saving is achieved due to the fact that routine cultivations are eliminated, with the result that the time taken to establish the crop is about a quarter of a plough based system.

In addition, by only moving the soil immediately surrounding the seed, draught requirement is reduced, so enabling the Claydon drill to be run on a less powerful tractor. Finally an additional bonus is the fact that both on-farm and in trials, there has been a positive increase in overall yields in both oilseed rape and wheat, so providing an additional bonus from increased crop return.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

B. W. Mack (Machinery) Limited Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 0AL Tel: 01366 324256 Fax: 01366 324431

Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon, Leicester LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191 Fax: 01530 249199

Craggs Of Conder Green Thurnham Mill Buildings, Conder Green, Lancaster, Lancashire LA2 0BD Tel: 01524 751405 Fax: 01524 752378

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

Andrew Curtis Tractors Limited Pensford, Nr Bristol BS39 4DB Tel: 01761 490372 Fax: 01761 490004

Keith Davies Agricultural Hem Manor Farm, Hem Lane, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840

Romsey Agricultural Machinery Limited Shorts Farm,Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6DX Tel: 01794 323159

TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310 Yorkshire Handlers Limited Unit 4-5, Fryors Close, Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel: 01904 489988

Fax: 01904 489061

Nigel Quinn (AMS) Agricultural Services 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston, Lancashire PR4 6JR Telephone 01704 822272

Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Telephone 01923 265211

Brian Robinson Machinery Limited East Cowton, Near Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Telephone 01325 378552

A14 Telford Road, Bicester OX26 4LD Telephone 01869 329988 Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Telephone 01582 727111

Brockhills of Yorkshire Dalton Lane, Dalton Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 3HR Telephone 01845 577242

| Energy

Free seminar on wind energy for farmers at the UK’s premier renewable energy conference Presenters include farming experts and industry representatives including Dr Ceris Jones from the NFU. n the 27th October, RenewableUK is running a free seminar for farmers, landowners, estate managers and other members of the agricultural community who want to find out more about wind turbines. The presenters include farming experts and industry representatives including Dr Ceris Jones from the NFU. The session will assess different types of technologies available on the market and provide valuable information on generating energy from wind.

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Entry to the exhibition, which includes over 300 exhibitors, will also be free on the 27th October.

Those interested in attending the free seminars should register as soon as possible to secure their place. www.renewableuk.com/events/annualconference/index.html The farmers seminar is part of RenewableUK 2011, the premier UK conference for wind, wave and tidal energy, which is being held on the 25th to 27th October at Manchester Central.

Whether farmers are considering a large wind turbine/s or one of

the smaller options, this is an ideal event to meet and talk with the suppliers and experts in this sector and learn more.

The recent launch of a £100 million renewable energy fund for farmers by Barclays has served to underline the attractiveness to farmers of choosing to generate their own

clean energy. In difficult economic times there can be few investments which offer the agricultural community a high level of guaranteed financial return, where disruption to existing land use can be minimal and one is also able to deliver significant environmental benefits.

Leading the way for the farming communities of East Yorkshire May family were first on the block to use wind power for energy needs.

IREY FARM, EAST RIDING – Katie and Neil May knew that, one day, they would run their farm on renewable energy.

“We always felt that we lived in a very windy site, and that we ought to harness the power that the wind was producing,” says Katie May. “We’ve always been more green than other people. It’s obviously clean energy over and above everything else. We thought it was worth our while, because in the long run, it would be saving us a considerable amount of money, especially if the price of electricity continued to go up and up.”

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“It doesn’t interfere with our daily living.”

The couple, whose 250-acre farm includes crops such as wheat, barley, potatoes and peas, installed a largely selffunded 11 kW wind turbine in 2009, and have already reaped the benefits of the government’s Feed in Tariff scheme.

Launched on 1 April 2010, the scheme means that

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licensed electricity suppliers pay a tariff to small-scale, lowcarbon energy producers for the electricity they generate, as well as an export tariff when that energy is exported to the national grid.

The Mays are now saving £2,000 a year on electricity bills, and making an average of £5, 500-6,000 annually for the electricity they produce. “If you can use all that electricity,” says May, “that’s a huge saving.”

Although she and her husband faced some initial opposition at the planning stages, May believes that local planning authorities are now coming round to the need for renewables, including wind turbines. Part of the problem, she says, was simply a lack of understanding about what small wind entailed.

“I think most people’s image of a wind turbine is one of these great big, 90-metre machines that you see in the middle of nowhere on top of moors,” she says. “They couldn’t relate to what it was going to be. People were quite surprised at how small it was going to be – I think their original image was of a huge machine that you were

going to see for miles and miles around.”

Getting planning for the turbine was, she admits, “a hard-fought battle” but one that was won “absolutely hands down. It has subsequently opened the way for every other farmer in the area who wants to be able to put up a wind turbine. I mean, farms now around here, they’re not just putting one wind turbine up; they’re putting two up.”

Now, she has enquiries not only from neighbours or farming friends: “We have people ringing up from all over the place asking about our experiences.

“We wouldn’t change it at all. To me, it’s very rapidly become part of the fixtures and fittings, and it just quietly,

silently does its job, and when it’s left to get on with it, it does it very well. You can still enjoy sitting out in the garden, you haven’t got something that is making a huge, horrible noise.

“It doesn’t interfere with our daily living. There aren’t health risks associated with it. It’s a very peaceful, gentle giant that just does its job every day as it’s allowed to get on and do it.”

Pleased to be a pioneer, May believes that renewable energy facilities are ideal for a farm setting. “I think that in years to come, I wouldn’t be surprised if one in every 10 farms had some form of power generating machine [solar or wind],” she says. “I think that more and more farmers will go down that route of having some sort of renewable energy.”

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Energy

WELTEC builds biogas plant in record time Experienced German biogas plant manufacturer establishes its fifth plant in the Czech Republic.

y 2015, biomass is to become the Czech Republic‘s primary source of renewable energy. Accordingly, there is a high demand for biogas plants among investors and operators, especially from manufacturers who have

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international experience and an extensive service network.

With its 10-year history, Vechta-based WELTEC BIOPOWER GmbH is an experienced German biogas plant manufacturer. This summer, it established its fifth

plant in the Czech Republic. The construction of the agricultural biogas plant in Příložany in the southern part of the country was completed in four months.

After casting the concrete floor slabs in March, the construction of the 2,500 cubic metres stainless steel fermenter, the combined heat and power generation plant (CHP), and the 35 cubic metres vertical dosing feeder started in the same month. The setup of the biogas plant equipment was finished in May. The gas started flowing through the pipes in early May, and the final approval of the test operation was granted in June.

The WELTEC biogas plant has a biogas emergency flare and operates without a hygienisation unit and separation unit. In the CHP, a CHP-Unit with 366 kW output produces the electricity that is fed into the grid. The plant‘s energy efficiency is high, because the generated heat is used in the facilities and stables.

The plant is fed with substrates and manure of the operator and

farms in the vicinity: pig manure, grass silage, maize silage, crop silage, and grain waste.

The EU and the Czech government provide special incentives for biogas plant projects in the Czech Republic.

One of the main reasons is that the carbon dioxide emissions per capita are rather high compared to other countries.

Czech farmers receive financial support for the establishment of biogas plants fro-m an EU environmental fund and an EU rural development fund.

Since 2005, the feed-in law for decentralised eco-power has resulted in an increase in the energy production from regenerative sources. In 2010, a share of about 10 percent of the energy was already produced from alternative sources, compared to only 4 percent in 2008.

“There is a high demand for biogas plants among investors and operators.”

Come see us at EBEC On Stand: K18

38 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

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| Energy

OFT recommendations will help AD OFT’s study leads to a series of recommendations to Ofwat and other bodies and may encourage investment.

DBA Chairman and Lib Dem peer Lord Redesdale has welcomed the publication of the OFT’s Market Study into Organic Waste.

The Market Study was prompted by the water regulator Ofwat, to explore what barriers exist to competition in the treatment of sewage sludge, and the involvement of Water and Sewage Companies in the treatment of other organic waste.

ADBA has been campaigning for changes which will help deliver the “huge increase” in Anaerobic Digestion promised by the coalition, and

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welcomed Ofwat’s decision to request the study.

The Market Study makes a series of recommendations to Ofwat and other bodies, focussing primarily on creating an economic environment which will help increase competition for Water and Sewage Companies and other waste treatment companies across the market.

Commenting, Lord Redesdale said: “I welcome the publication of the OFT’s Market Study, and would like to thank their team who have put so much work into it this year.

“The Study recognises that

competition both for sewage sludge as a feedstock for digestion is very limited, that water companies are largely not connected to the wider organic waste treatment market, and that changes have to be made to make water supply and treatment sustainable.

“The OFT’s recommendations could help lead to huge rise in investment in Anaerobic Digestion from water sector, which will help the industry as a whole, and open up new opportunities for treating sewage sludge.

“AD has a vital role in decarbonising energy

production – particularly in areas which other renewables can’t reach, such as replacing fossil fuel gas in the grid – so I hope that implementing these recommendations will help the water sector become a significant investor in the industry.

“Over the coming months, ADBA will present our view that urgent measures need to be taken by Ofwat to increase the AD in the water sector, and will discuss with the regulator how we move to a mature and competitive AD marketplace both inside and outside the water sector.”

Key facts you need to know about anaerobic digestion and biogas • The AD industry has the potential to generate around 40TWh of energy, equivalent to 20% of the UK’s domestic gas demand • The AD industry has the potential to be worth £2-3bn in the UK alone and employ 35,000 people • The NFU and ADBA share the goal of a huge expansion in AD plants on farms by the year 2020, contributing to multiple environmental goals as well as low carbon energy supply.

• Overseas potential is significant and the UK could be a world leader - with the right support now.

• Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a natural process which converts organic matter such as household food and garden waste, farm slurry, waste from food processing plants and supermarkets, into biogas and biofertiliser.

• Biogas (which is approximately 60% biomethane, 40% CO2) can be utilised to generate electricity and heat, or, upgraded to bio-methane, as a transport fuel or fed directly into the UK’s gas grids • According to the Carbon Trust the generation of biomethane would save twice as much carbon dioxide as

producing electricity by 2020 • AD is the only renewable that can be scaled up fast enough to enable the UK to reach its 2020 renewable energy target • AD significantly improves Britain’s energy security - we will soon be importing over 70% of our gas • AD reduces greenhouse gas emissions by treating organic wastes which would otherwise emit methane (landfill, slurries) and reducing our use of energy intensive commercial fertilisers and fossil fuels • AD preserves critical natural resources such as

Nitrates and Phosphorus.

Phosphorous is a finite resource for which there is no known alternative. It is critical for plant growth and world resources are already running out. Nitrates are one of the key components of fertilisers.

• Unlike other renewables, biomethane is generated constantly and can be stored in the gas grid, and biomethane is one of the few renewable fuels for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) which cannot run on electricity

Five facts you need to know about ADBA • ADBA stands for The Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association • The Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association was founded in September 2009 • Since its launch ADBA has acquired over 240 members, including AD plant operators, suppliers, local authorities, farmers, utility and energy

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companies such as British Gas and Scotia Gas Networks, supermarkets such as Waitrose and Morrisons, fleet operators such as Coca Cola and Howard Tenens • ADBA’s chairman is Lord Redesdale, former Liberal Democrat energy spokesman • ADBA’s aim is to help enable or facilitate the

development of a mature AD industry in the UK and to represent all businesses involved in the anaerobic digestion and biogas industries, to remove the barriers they face and to support its members to grow their businesses and the industry to help UK plc meet its renewable energy, climate

change and landfill targets, as well as the preservation of critical natural resources.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Solar

A guide to Solar Electricity hen electricity rather than heat is required, PV is a robust, flexible, scaleable technology which can provide energy for both houses and other buildings. The typical sized household PV system for example will provide at least 2,000 units of electricity per annum and save at least 1.14 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. PV has a proven working life of 45 years plus and modules typically come with a 25 year manufacturers warranty.

Electricity generation in the UK today is still largely sourced from fossil fuels, which causes the release of harmful gasses into the atmosphere – including CO2. The use of solar electricity generation through Photovoltaic (PV) systems will help to reduce the emission of these gases thereby helping government to meet their binding 2020 emission reduction targets.

Energy from the sun can be used to generate electricity through a PV system. Solar PV systems convert the sun’s rays

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directly into electricity through the use of solar cells. The technology can be used for domestic as well as larger industrial or commercial applications and has various applications to suit specific needs.

A large number of homes in the UK have recently been installing PV systems, and the number is increasing exponentially since the introduction of the Feed in Tariff (FiT) – the financial incentive scheme introduced by Government on 1st April 2010.

The aim of the FiT is to increase the uptake of on-site electricity generating technologies including PV.

PV Systems

PV systems can be grouped into grid connected and standalone/off grid systems.

The grid connected system allows the building in question to use a certain amount of the generated electricity, with the rest feeding directly onto the National Grid. An advantage of the grid connected system is that it allows you to get the balance of your electricity needs from the grid and it also allows you to export excess generated

40 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

electricity back to the grid.

Through the recently introduced Feed in Tariff for every unit (kWh) of electricity generated you will receive between 29.3p/Kwh and 41.3p/Kwh (generation tariff), as well as 3p/kWh for every unit exported back to the grid (export tariff). The grid connected system would have a grid connect inverter as well as a meter. The inverter would transform the DC power from the PV modules into AC power at a voltage and frequency that can be accepted by the grid while the meter would monitor the energy produced and used on site; as well as total energy exported to the grid.

Stand alone systems used for domestic and industrial applications in which a household or company is able to produce its own electricity and its yield can be matched to its demand. The electricity generated can be stored in batteries for use at a later time.

This type of system is also very useful for remote locations where it is inconvenient or expensive to connect to the grid, an example of this is in

navigation buoys. They are also used for other applications such as garden lights, parking meters, etc Domestic PV systems are usually roof mounted in an array of panels and are placed at angles best suited to receive the energy coming from the sun.

The orientation of these arrays would ideally be southerly, though PV systems will perform at almost any orientation (though output may be lower and the system should be sized accordingly). They can also be pole or ground mounted. An important consideration is that the panels are mounted in areas where there are no tall buildings or trees so as to minimise shading which will adversely affect the performance of the system.

PV System Components

The typical PV system is made up of the following parts: PV panel: This is made of cells that help to convert energy from the sun directly into electricity. The cells are made of silicon and are connected to form modules which may be either in series, parallel or both.

The modules should be durable and be able to withstand

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| Solar

y (Photovoltaics or 'PV') A robust, flexible, scaleable technology which can provide energy for both houses and other buildings.

temperature variations and humidity. There are three main types of solar cells as below: Mono-crystalline: These are cells made from pure monocrystalline silicon with a single thin crystalline structure. They are very efficient; however the cost of production is high as it is energy and labour intensive.

This would be useful for small installations or areas with very limited mounting space.

Poly-crystalline: These are made from small grains of mono-crystalline silicon. They are cheaper and easier to manufacture but are also found to be less efficient than their mono-crystalline counterpart.

Amorphous Silicon: These are cells made from thin films of silicon in a form known as amorphous silicon. Here the silicon structures are in less order than the

crystal lattice structure of the mono crystalline and the poly crystalline. Its production method though complex, is not as energy intensive as crystalline cells; however its efficiency is low. This technology is most often used in smaller applications such as calculators, or garden lights. It is also often found in multi-layer technology which increases cost, performance and efficiency typically to crystalline levels.

Inverters: PV systems generate electricity in direct current (DC), however most appliances found in the home operate on alternating current (AC). Transformation of the DC to AC is done by the inverter, and they come in various sizes depending on the user’s energy needs. Battery powered devices also work on DC whilst the mains is supplied through 230 volts AC. The inverter also has several important safety features which protect electricians and householders from electrical dangers.

Storage batteries: These are used to store excess energy produced by the system which can be used at night when the system can’t produce energy.

Alternatively, excess energy stored here can be exported to the grid. If the grid is available, it is always preferable to use gridconnected PV circuits.

How They Work

Sunlight is made of a stream of photons which are absorbed by the cells of the PV panels.

These photons interact with electrons found in the cells to ‘upgrade’ the electrons to a

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higher energy level which can be exploited as an electric current. These currents are conducted by wires to the electrical system of the building to be used for a range of appliances; directly to the grid or to batteries for storage purposes.Feed in Tariff (FiT) The use of PV systems is not only cost effective by saving you energy bills, but it is also a form of investment especially with the introduction of the Feed in Tariff.

The FiT scheme is available for people who have an electrical micro generation technology installed in their homes and this could be in form of on-site wind turbines, anaerobic digestion, hydro electricity and combined heat and power (mCHP) and of course PV.

How does the FiT work?

To qualify for the FiT, the PV system must be installed by an MCS certified installer and supplier anytime from 15th July 2009.

Benefits of the FiT

There are three ways in which the owner of the technology can benefit from the scheme. These are: Generation Tariff: in which your energy supplier gives money for every unit of electricity produced. The tariff varies depending on the capacity of the installed technology; for PV it ranges from 29.3p/Kwh to 41.3p/Kwh Export Tariff: in this case, there is a payment of 3p/Kwh for all excess generated electricity exported to the grid. This payment is currently “deemed” which means an estimated

amount of energy is exported and so receives an export payment.

Energy bill savings: by using the power from the installed technology, there is less dependence on the conventional electrical power from the grid thereby allowing savings on energy bills.

Please visit the http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/conte nt/cms/what_we_do/uk_supply/e nergy_mix/renewable/feedin_tari ff/feedin_tariff.aspx website for further information on Feed-in Tariffs.

Cost and Maintenance

The cost of a PV system would largely depend on the installed capacity, however on average one would anticipate paying between £4000 & £8000/kWp installed cost.

Please note that this is only an estimate as there are many building factors that affect the cost of the quote. We always recommend that if someone is unsure about the first quote they receive that they should then obtain another quote from another member of the Association.

PV has a proven working life of 45 years plus and modules typically come with a 25 year manufacturers warranty. These systems require little maintenance as rain water should keep the panel surface sufficiently clean. Occasional additional cleaning may be required from time to time, particularly if the panels are located near a large tree (sap & birds!)

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Solar

Conergy launches online solar systems design tool Company aims to maximize opportunities for British rooftop installations and raise industry standards. onergy, one of the world’s leading solar system manufacturers, today launched its ‘Conergizer’ tool in the UK to coincide with the start of Green Building Week.

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“Installers are expected to be the biggest users of the Conergizer: its Germanlanguage parent has already been used in some 10,000 installations in Europe.”

The online systems planning tool helps users work out the best solar solution for any roof – aesthetically, financially and in terms of pure kilowatt power generation potential.

The move is expected to enable the viability of many solar projects in the UK that have previously been discounted because buildings are not southfacing or roofs have chimneys or other obstructions, and to increase awareness of best practice in solar installations.

Available for free at

http://conergizer.co.uk, the software allows users to enter building data such as location, dimensions, roof type and obstacles (such as windows, chimneys etc.) to create an attractive 3D graphical model. A simulation of sunlight over the course of the year highlights areas of shading so solar panels can be positioned accordingly.

“Solar can be a great investment if you put the right panels in the right places,” said Robert Goss, Managing Director of Conergy in the UK. “The Conergizer will help people work out just how much they can make from their rooftops, whether they’re in Aberdeen or the Scilly Isles.”

Climatic conditions for the whole of Great Britain have been mapped, including maximum wind and snowloads, supporting decisions on what type of frames are best employed. The system then takes into account the building’s orientation and tilt of the panels in relation to the sun, as well as obstacles such as chimneys and dormer windows

42 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

and local sunlight data, to accurately forecast power generation for the year. This enables detailed estimates of the end-customer’s return on investment, based on the cost and size of the installation, its feed-in-tariff, expected off-grid energy use and energy prices, and the customer’s individual financing arrangements.

“One change to the design and the financial picture changes dramatically,” said Robert Goss. “This shows you just how important professional planning is in solar installations.

There are investors right now passing over houses in the UK because they have chimneys or they’re not south-facing. There are installers squeezing in as many panels as they can to maximize power output but that doesn’t always generate the best returns. Solar has massive potential in the UK and this tool can help deliver that.”

Installers are expected to be the biggest users of the Conergizer: its Germanlanguage parent has already

been used in some 10,000 installations in Europe. The software lists parts requirements and quotation print-outs can be branded with the installer’s logo.

Installers have reported a halving of planning times in Germany, freeing up their businesses to focus on sales.

Meanwhile investors, facilities managers, building professionals and even homeowners are using the financial planning element of the software to assess proposals from solar companies.

Robert Goss, MD Conergy in the UK: “We’re taking a stand against the Del Boys who make people’s lives a misery with badly designed installations” Training days for installers are planned until the end of the year.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Solar

Solar Power UK 2011 - Hats off to Bowler Fusing Policy and Energy Opportunity for a Sustainable Solar Future! T

Enviable reputation preceeds trusted company.

This dedicated event with a focus on solar PV comprises a full three-day exhibition, at least four specialised conferences and additional training sessions and educational seminars. n 2011, Solar Power UK is moving to Birmingham the UK's second largest city and will take place at the ICC Exhibition Centre. The event brings together all segments of the solar industry in the UK to ensure sustainable growth. As the number-one gathering of the solar industry in the UK, Solar Power UK 2011 aims to provide a vital platform upon which to communicate and drive business.

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“An official Gala Networking Event in an informal yet elegant setting will further enhance the breadth and scope of the event, offering prime opportunities to make new connections and develop business opportunities in the first and only dedicated conference and exhibition for the UK solar industry.”

This dedicated event with a focus on solar PV comprises a full three-day exhibition, at least four specialised conferences and additional training sessions and educational seminars. The Solar Power UK 2010 conference was a huge success and sold out one week prior to the event date. This year’s comprehensive main conference will explore government policy, the industry supply chain, and

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key themes to support a sustainable solar future in the UK. A dedicated conference examining BIPV will be hosted by the renowned BRE Trust and the Solar Trade Association will also co-locate their annual conference with Solar Power UK. In addition, local government and public sector stakeholders will take part in a series of meetings looking at ways in which PV and solar thermal technologies can be used in the transition to the low-carbon economy.

Due to popular demand, the exhibition has been expanded to bring together approxiately 120 exhibitors showcasing their products and services for the fastest-growing PV and solar thermal market in Europe. An official Gala Networking Event in an informal yet elegant setting will further enhance the breadth and scope of the event, offering prime opportunities to make new connections and develop business opportunities in the first and only dedicated conference and exhibition for the UK solar industry.

he Bowler Group is a totally independent organization which has been successfully trading in the agricultural sector for over 30 years. During this time we have established an unrivalled reputation for honesty, integrity and reliability.

Our interest in renewable energy started when we investigated ways to reduce energy costs on our farms. We initially invested in a few solar panels on one farm, and after recording the daily electricity output from these panels we have now installed 6 varieties of solar PV systems onto other company-owned farms.

Simply put, if you install 200 solar panels at an approximate cost of £105,000 you could generate £450,000 from the government’s 25 year guaranteed, index linked feedin tariff payment scheme.

You could earn even more income in real terms by using

the electricity on your own site which can contribute to a further £90,000 in your utility bill savings. If you think this is too good to be true, we did too!

John Bowler himself did not believe it until he employed his solicitor to investigate the government’s 25 year guarantee, and he actually had physical proof that his own systems were earning similar amounts.

We have our own planning team and solicitor that oversee all our planning applications, and we may also be able to assist in the financing of the project.

We hold open days every month so people can come and see the actual daily returns we are earning from our various systems and to see why our systems give the biggest returns.

Our next open day is Friday 21st October.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Solar

The UK’s largest Suntech Solar PV installation Berryfields Farm just outside of Coventry is the location for exceptional solar array.

olar Power Intl Ltd have recently commissioned a stunning 96kWp solar PV system at Berryfields Farm near Coventry. In doing so the Middlemarsh, Dorset PV centre can lay claim to the largest Suntech PV installation in the UK to date.

Berryfields Farm is set in beautiful countryside outside Coventry, and specialises in home reared and locally sourced food produce, some of which is sold through the Berryfields Farm shop on site.

The site itself is largely dedicated to housing the farms prized sows and their considerable offspring.

Chris Barber approached

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Solar Power Intl after reading an article in Farming Monthly, and after initial discussions was suitably impressed with the companies engineering, procurement and construction capabilities to instruct a full site survey. In light of a proven track record of similar installations and unique engineering design that provide minimum internal production losses, Chris saw the opportunity to install a system quickly in order to benefit from the current tariff payments, guaranteed for 25 year under the Microgeneration scheme.

A proposal was made to install a large 100kWp sized PV array on 750m2 of roof space, and work soon commenced

44 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

onsite. Solar Power Intl MD Yaron Reveny told us “Chris provided us with a great site on a large South facing roof, but one of our challenges on this particular site was to establish the structural integrity of the roof itself. These systems need to be in place and performing for 25 years, so we absolutely have to ensure our standards are never compromised whatever the specific site may present us with. In this instance we agreed with Chris that we would complete a structural reinforcement of the roof prior to the installation to ensure the building and the system is sound for many many years to come”.

After just 14 working days on site, a gleaming array of 345 Suntech PV modules were fully installed, together with six SMA Sunny Tripower inverters to complete the system. The system, rated at 96.6 kWp is equipped to deliver an average 86,000 kWh of power to the farm per year, earning the FiT generation payment as well as

on-site electricity savings, plus an export payment on every unit sent back to the grid. The farm has importantly largely protected itself from future electricity price rises and the system is estimated to save an incredible 48 tonnes of Co2 emissions per year.

Solar Power Intl Ltd are a specialist MCS accredited Solar PV installer based in The Dorset PV Centre. Their expertise lies within both domestic and commercial installations and their services span the entire design, supply, installation and integration of Solar PV systems.

The company is currently receiving huge interest in its Free Solar offering, where the company will install a Solar PV system completely free of charge, allowing land or building owners to enjoy a flexible array of benefits from free electricity to regular cash payments.

Call Solar Power Intl Ltd today to find out how you too can enjoy the incredible financial and environmental benefits on offer from Solar PV, on 0844 5041317!

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| Solar

Lark Energy and FE Peacock bring solar energy to Lincolnshire farm Roof mounted panels set to save thousands.

Lincolnshire farmer is set to save thousands of pounds on electricity bills after Larkfleet Group companies Lark Energy (www.larkenergy.co.uk) and FE Peacock Construction (www.fepeacock.co.uk) installed photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of a barn.

The Bourne-based

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companies installed the PV panels at Limes Farm on Spalding Road in Bourne, Lincolnshire.

The photovoltaic panels produce electricity from daylight, generating useable power even on cloudy days.

Larkfleet Group’s specialised builders’ merchant, Eco Building

EOS Energy introduces the ‘Next Generation’ Revolutionary scheme allows farmers to use money from solar investment to pay for tuition fees. ritain’s farmers are investing heavily in renewable technologies to insulate themselves from rising power bills and one solar developer is also allowing them to use Photovoltaic panels to educate the next generation.

Next year’s massive increase in the cost of college and university education is proving to be a barrier to many farmers who were hoping to send their sons and daughters to agricultural college.

However, EOS Energy, the UK’s fastest growing solar developer, has introduced a revolutionary scheme called ‘Next Generation’ that allows farmers to use money from their solar investment to pay for tuition fees.

“On self financed 30-50 kWp PV arrays, EOS Energy will not only enable the direct benefit of the Feed-in-Tariff investment, but we will also match the cost of a year's admission to a mutually agreed college,” explained Lee Summers, director of EOS Energy.

The speed with which agricultural practice changes and the increasing reliance on technology are making more and more farmers think about putting their children through agricultural college.

Investment in renewable power generation is one such factor and is becoming increasingly popular amongst

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Britain’s agricultural community.

A third of dairy farmers who took part in a recent survey by Barclays Bank said they were investigating the potential of renewable technology to generate heat and electricity for the farm and sell the surplus to the Grid.

“PV is suitable for agricultural sectors where primary energy demand is high,” said Mr Summers.

“Solar is a relatively low-cost, high-return investment when compared with new agricultural machinery.”

EOS Energy can offer farmers a complete service from design to installation and performance monitoring and are targeting 125 agricultural installations this year generating a total of about 2.7 MW. The company also offers to fund the costs of erecting an array for farmers who do not have the capital expenditure available. The company would use the returns from the sale of electricity to pay for their investment but the farm can significantly reduce its electricity bill with no outlay.

“The Government F-i-T scheme ensures that with a PV system farmers are not only assured of a return on their investment, but they are also protecting their businesses from rising energy costs in the future,” said Mr Summers

Products Ltd, supplied the 82 panels that were used on the site providing a total installed capacity of 18.9 kWp (kilowatt peak).

The completed PV array is now providing power for the farm, owned by ED & AD Cooke Bourne Ltd, helping to reduce energy costs and CO2 emissions.

The farmer will also benefit from the government’s Feed in Tariff, which guarantees payments for the generation of energy from renewable energy technologies such as photovoltaic panels.

FE Peacock managing director Karl Hick commented: “This installation demonstrates

the potential of PV for the agricultural sector – and indeed for any industrial operation with a large roof. We are delighted with the success of this project and look forward to working on many more in the future.”

As well as working on large buildings such as the one at Limes Farm, FE Peacock is also experienced in providing renewable energy solutions for residential dwellings.

Working with Lark Energy, FE Peacock offers a wide range of energy-saving retrofit solutions including photovoltaic panels, insulation of roofs, floors and external walls and the installation of mechanical ventilation and heat recovery.

ORDER YOUR PV INSTALL NOW TO BEAT APRIL’S FIT REDUCTIONS

30kWp installation, Lincolnshire

Lark Energy has installed over 40,000 solar panels providing 11MW of renewable energy already in 2011 We deliver solutions that will save you energy and generate you an income from dawn until dusk - every day of the year! We specialise in farm and commercial PV installations on tiled, metal, cement fibre and asbestos roofs and on land. We use only top quality products from leading manufacturers and look after structural surveys, planning and grid applications.

The government will be reducing Feed in Tariff rates from April so now is the ideal time to order your installation from Lark Energy to guarantee today's higher returns.

Contact us on 01778 393331 or visit: www.larkenergy.co.uk Lark Energy, Larkfleet House, Falcon Way, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 0FF

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 45

| News Solar

Energy efficiency combined with German efficiency Marking its 10th anniversary CMS GreenEnergy opens an office in the UK

armers have always constituted the main client base for the engineers of CMS GreenEnergy. Ten years ago, when the business started in a rural area in Germany, local farmers were among the first to ask for a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Over the last decade, CMS GreenEnergy’s engineering team has successfully installed solar PV systems on more than 500 farms in Germany, France and the Netherlands.

Rising energy costs and the

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introduction of a feed-in tariff have generated a growing interest in solar PV within the UK. Now is the right time to think about alternative forms of energy and sophisticated forms of energy efficiency. This is why CMS GreenEnergy has opened an office in the UK offering its services and expertise to farmers in England, Wales and Scotland.

With their own “solar plant” farmers are able to generate up to 45,000 kWh of power per year. In this case a solar PV

system of 50 kWp would help save over 25 tons per year of the climate-damaging trace gas CO2. This is also an impressive contribution towards global climate protection. The UK government is forced to reduce its 1990 carbon emission levels by 34% in 2020 to meet the requirements of the European Union for a future low carbon economy.

In order to achieve this objective, the UK government introduced a feed-in tariff for solar PV systems. Every farmer who operates a solar PV system will receive a payment for each kWh that is generated, for selfconsumed electricity as well as for every surplus that is automatically fed back into the National Grid. The current feedin tariff of £0.329 per kWh grants a farmer who generates 45,000 kWh of power a payment of £14,805 per year. Once a solar PV system is implemented, the feed-in tariff will remain fixed for 25 years.

A solar PV system is a once in a lifetime investment.

Therefore, quality and reliability have always been of highest importance for CMS GreenEnergy. “Our clients correctly place high expectations in our services. For this reason, we visit every client to personally discuss the pros and cons of a solar PV system.

We don’t have a patent solution.

Our results are individual, tailormade solutions which are environmentally friendly and economically profitable,” Oliver Reich, Managing Director of CMS GreenEnergy, said.

Since 2001, CMS GreenEnergy has proven its capability on various fields. Its portfolio includes on-roof and integrated roof systems, elevated systems on flat roofs, stand-alone systems and special solutions such as carports.

Should CMS GreenEnergy’s services have awakened your interest and for further information you can contact them by telephone on 0207 1824016 or by email to oliver.reich@cmsgreenenergy.com

New Gunson solar powered battery charger olar power is continuously gaining momentum and popularity and this new solar powered battery charger from Gunson (part no: 77108) is an effective way to charge and maintain 12 volt batteries rated at 30Ah and above.

Modern cars draw a lot of power from their battery, powering systems such as clocks, alarms, immobilizers and trackers. When the vehicle is not being used regularly the alternator doesn't get a chance to top the battery up. Returning from holiday to discover a flat battery is less than ideal. This solar powered battery charger will trickle charge your vehicle's battery, helping compensate for electronic drain and natural wastage.

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It will work in all daylight conditions and is fully weather resistant. The charging rate in bright conditions is 4W and the unit features a useful 2.5 metre cable length with crocodile clips, plus 12 volt socket adaptor for cars.

Still charges even in dull conditions and has an LED indicator to confirm that the solar powered battery charger is delivering power to the battery. Built-in blocking diode prevents battery discharge at night.

It is available now for a typical price of £33.40 but remember to check your local supplier for the best prices and special offers.

More details from www.gunson.co.uk

46 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

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| Education | News

John Craven OBE officially opens Caradoc Halls of Residence at Walford Campus Mr Craven commented that he was impressed with the facilities.

ohn Craven and the BBC were at the Walford campus of Walford and North Shropshire College on Friday (23rd Sep) filming a piece for the extremely popular Countryfile programme.

The programme, which is due to be broadcast on October 9th on BBC1, will include a piece about Hill Farming, rising land prices and how this is affecting students and their studies.

Level Three Agriculture students were filmed whilst

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undertaking a practical activity with sheep. Two of these students, Carl Trow from Worthen and Ryan Joseph from Llyswen, were interviewed about their course and their future ambitions. John also met a group of Agricultural Apprentices and talked with them about their work-based programme.

Whilst on site John formally opened the £1million Caradoc Halls of Residence. Guests at

We can offer vocational pathways to employment or University.

OPEN EVENING OSWESTRY CAMPUS Thursday 10th November 2011 6.00pm - 8.30pm

OPEN DAY - WALFORD CAMPUS Saturday 12th November 2011 10.00am - 2.00pm

Apply online today by visiting

www.wnsc.ac.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

the official ceremony included governors, staff and representatives from Paveaways and Baart Harries Newall the builders of the new accommodation. Mr Craven commented that he was impressed with the facilities and pleased there were record numbers of agriculture students currently enrolled at the college.

He said: “Things are looking a bit better for farmers after a long, bleak period and to see record numbers of young students doing agriculture at this college is a sign of growing confidence in the industry.”

Gillian Richards, vice-chair of governors, said: “John spoke about how rewarding it was to see young people coming back into agriculture and we are delighted he was able to officially open Caradoc for us.”

Toby Paul, the four year old son of Walford Shepherd Peter Paul and the winner of first prize for young handlers at the recent Minsterley Show, treated John to a demonstration of his impressive handling skills with a Lleyn ewe. Toby also presented John with a ceramic sheep, a gift from the college, after the opening ceremony.

Interestingly Anna Jones, the BBC Director on campus, is a former Llanfyllin High School Student, and her father is a former student at the Walford Campus. Anna said, ‘Dad was here 1969-70 and he now farms at Lynton, Llansillin.’

The Countryfile team visiting Walford was a fantastic experience for many, including Interactive Media Students from the Oswestry Campus, who were able to film the unveiling ceremony and get some tips from the BBC crew. John even agreed to give them an impromptu interview on camera.

Interactive Media student, Peter Aspey commented, ‘It’s been a really great day. It was wonderful to meet John Craven and have the opportunity to film him. We have also learnt a few really useful tips from the BBC cameraman. It’s going to really help our studies.’

The £1m Caradoc Halls opened back in September 2010. The Halls include 24 fully ensuite study bedrooms with private showers and toilets, full

internet and digital television access in high quality accommodation. The new halls were designed by Baart Harries Newall, the same design team responsible for the awardwinning Harris Centre, and were built by Knockin-based Paveaways Limited. The new building will be known as Caradoc Hall, reflecting the Walford tradition of naming residential halls after well known local hills.

Andrew Tyley, College Principal and Chief Executive, is delighted with the finished product: “These new residential facilities bring Walford’s accommodation up to the standard of the very best in further education. Any parent would be impressed with the standard of the new halls, which replace the very basic and dated facilities in the former Haughmond block, since demolished. Our architects have managed to design a superb new building, which enhances the campus as well as providing a really pleasant and live-able space for our residential students.’

“Record numbers of young students doing agriculture at this college is a sign of growing confidence in the industry.”

Centre of Excellence

Jon Parry, Director of Walford, welcomes the new halls as a vital ingredient to the long term future of Walford as a centre of excellence for landbased studies “With further expansion this autumn in the number of agriculture and equine students at Walford, it is more important than ever that we have sufficient high quality accommodation to house those learners living away from home.

We had tremendous praise at our last Ofsted residential inspection for the quality of care and support we offer our residents. We now have accommodation to match.”

For more information about courses at Walford and North Shropshire College, visit www.wnsc.ac.uk or call 01691 688080.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Machinery

Reeds and Dieci - hand in hand to offer the best service available For over 20 years, Reeds have striven to provide the best customer experience possible. eeds (RRH Ltd) aim to provide the Construction and Engineering sectors with the finest machinery and servicing, delivered with the very best in professionalism, efficiency and customer care. Reeds were founded 20 years ago, and we are based at our Lavington Workshops in Wiltshire, England.

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“Reeds offer a wide range of Dieci parts and a 3 year warranty on all machines.�

Reeds are highly respected in the field of plant sale, repair and maintenance. We are small enough to remain flexible, yet we are equipped and staffed to carry out major repairs and overhauls. In recent years we have also paid attention to the Supply & Hire sides of the

business, to incorporate the Hire and Supply of a varied range of Plant & Construction Machinery from New Holland construction machines and Parts to MERI Road Crushers.

Reeds Ltd are proud to present themselves as official Dieci dealers.

Dieci has been producing telehandlers since 1983 (the first in Europe) and cement truck mixers since 1962 and has thus accumulated a great deal of experience in the manufacture and construction of machines (agri machines, mixers, dumpers and telehandlers) designed specifically for use in industrial, building and agricultural sectors.

Reeds offer a wide range of Dieci parts and a 3 year warranty on all machines.

Dieci Ltd is involved in the development of machines tailored to UK and Ireland conditions. With well over 36

48 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

models in its range designed specifically for use in industrial, building and agricultural sectors.

This vast range more than competes with our rivals like JCB, Manitou, Maniscopic, Matbro, Merlo, Caterpillar, New Holland etc etc.

They have outstanding experience and skill in the design of the teleporter / telehandler dumper and truck mixer and use parts of remarkable high quality supplied by major worldwide partners.

Meticulous tests are carried out on all incoming parts, through out all production phases and on the finished product.

Fast becoming the number

one distributor of Telescopic Handlers in the UK and Ireland, Dieci have dedicated sales personnel and a focused team of highly trained spare parts coordinators and reliable service technicians.

Dieci Ltd is a strong growing company that is determined to continue expanding through out the forklift market place into the future.

So when you the customer decide on Dieci you can have peace of mind knowing that a team of Telescopic Handler specialists are with you all the way.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Andrew Marwood LTD

Newman Enterprises

Reeds

Unit 2, Full Sutton Industrial Estate, Full Sutton, Yorkshire YO41 1HS Tel: 01759 372888 www.andrewmarwood.com

The Gables, Ballards Ash, Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire SN4 8DT 01793 853807

Mount Pleasant Yard, White Street, Market Lavington, Wiltshire SN10 4DP Tel:01380 816516 www.reedsltd.co.uk

Relph LTD Johnson Bros Greenway Lane, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 8ET Tel: 01328 863812

Derwent House Farm, Broughton Beck Bridge, Great Broughton, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 0LD Tel:01900 827067 www.relphmachinery.com

L J & CA Cannings Challow House Farm, Main Street, East Challow, Wantage, Oxfordshire OX12 9SR Tel: 01235 763103 www.ljcannings.co.uk

J & S Lewis Hope Carr Ind Est, Butts Street, Leigh, Lancshire WN7 3XA Tel: 01942 682828 www.sjlewis.co.uk

RW Crawford Agricultural Machinery LTD

Short & Abbott

42-44 Cutlers Road, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelsford, Essex CM3 4DP Tel: 01245 322733 www.rwcrawford.co.uk

Mill Road, Bridgerule, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7EL Tel:01288 381485 www.shortandabbott.co.uk

| Machinery

Same Deutz-Fahr rescues charity ploughing marathon Manufacturer supplies tractor at 11th hour to save charity ploughing event.

ame Deutz-Fahr came to the rescue recently when a Young Farmers Club’s annual 48 hour charity fund raising ploughing marathon was threatened with cancellation due to the lack of a tractor. Only hours away from its scheduled start, the club was told the tractor they’d arranged to use

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was unavailable.

Help was at hand though. A phone call by Meridean YFC chairman, Tom Laight to SDF’s UK headquarters at Barby in Warwickshire resulted in a brand new Deutz-Fahr Agrotron M650 tractor being offered – an offer which was gratefully accepted.

Each year, Meridean YFC,

based at Allesley in Warwickshire, organises a ploughing marathon to raise money for worthy causes. This year it was the turn of the National Association of Colitis and Crohns’ disease and the original aim was to raise £700.

But thanks to the supreme efforts by a team of club

members who kept the 184hp Deutz-powered Agrotron M650 and its six-furrow Vogel and Noot plough on the move through two consecutive days and nights, the event managed to raise nearer £1100.

Working on land at Hollyfast Farm, Corley, near Coventry, Meridean Young Farmers ploughed a total of just over 130 acres and used 7.85 litres of fuel/acre, significantly less than the club expected and had budgeted for.

“It’s been a long 48 hours but it’s been worth it,” comments Tom. “The tractor was a joy to operate and never missed a beat - it handled the six furrow, fully mounted plough with ease.”

“Young Farmers Club’s annual 48 hour charity fund raising ploughing marathon was threatened with cancellation due to the lack of a tractor.”

Contractor uses Ryetec Gustrower Spreader to broaden his horizon Larger machine and variable rate spreading required. oahsark Ltd in West Sussex has just taken delivery of a Gustrower high capacity fertiliser and lime spreader from UK importer Ryetec. Moahsark have operated a successful and expanding lime spreading business covering Kent, Sussex and Surrey, but with increasing demand, managing director Mark Hughesdon decided a larger machine was required, not only that but requests for variable rate spreading have been on the increase and the existing spreader with its ground drive system, meant a variable rate spreading service could not be offered.

Having seen the Gustrower spreaders at the RAMSAK show in Kent earlier in the year, Mark was impressed with the chain and slat floor and its ability to spread wet lime without bridging which had been a particular problem in the 2010

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season with the existing belt type machine. The fact that the Gustrower could also easily be adapted to spread high quality fertiliser also got Mark thinking, he approached two of his biggest lime customers and asked if he offered a service to spread all their P & K fertilisers straight after the combine would they be interested, they said yes there and then. A demonstration was quickly arranged and Ryetec brought their demo unit down, allowing Mark and his operators to put the Gustrower through its paces in the field, “It was very impressive, easy to use and accurate both in application rates and spread pattern” said Mark and an order was placed immediately so Moahsark could be ready for the 2011 post harvest spreading season.

“We are now equipped with one of the most up to date spreaders in the UK which can

50 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

handle anything from high quality fertiliser right through to compost and chicken litter” said Mark, “Combine that with variable rate technology and we can offer a complete and highly accurate spreading service for any agricultural soil nutrient or conditioner, whatever the weather or product” he added.

To contact Moahsark for contract spreading in Kent, Sussex and Surrey, call Mark

on 07917 365065 or 07831 589322 Or for more information on the Gustrower fertiliser and lime spreader range contact Ryetec; 12/13 Town Green Lane, Settrington, Malton, N Yorks, YO17 8NR Tel: 01944 768232, Fax: 01944 768199, info@ryetec.co.uk, www.ryetec.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Contact your local dealer today: Redlynch Agri Engineering Ltd Deverell Farm, Milborne St. Andrew, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0HX Tel 01258 837166 www.redlynchtractors.co.uk

Redlynch Agri Engineering Ltd Redlynch, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NH Tel 01749 812628 www.redlynchtractors.co.uk

Brockhills Of Yorkshire Dalton Lane, Dalton, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 3HR Tel 01845 577242 Mobile 07792 510204

J J Farm Services Limited Far Stanley, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5HF Tel 01242 620631 www.jjfarm.co.uk

p l 0h de 11 o w 5m Ne -11 5H

ISE XIM PITAL A M CA ES UR ANC O Y W LO AL

OWE N V Y BU D SAs AN £££

Features 36 x 12 Reverse P Power ower Sh Shuttle ttl Powershift 3 Speed P owershift 40kph Tr True rue 4-wheel braking 4350kg Lift Capacity Mechanical Lower Link Sensing T Telescopic elescopic Auto hitch

The 74-110hp

5H Series Loader Package Building on the success of the PowerFarm and PowerMondial, the 5H Series now available with a pre fitted TurboLift loader will work harder for your money. Whether it’s arable, dairy or the amenity sector, this superb all-rounder will take on the challenge comfortably.

Independent Hydraulic PTO 3 Speed PTO option 102” Overall Height Option 24 x 12 Mechanical Shuttle

Call your Landini dealer today and ask about the flexible finance options to suit your needs.

Lyndon Tucker

C&M Tractors Limited

Oldwalls Garage, Llanrhidian, Swansea, SA3 1HA Tel 01792 391007

Station Approach, Oakham, Rutland, Leicestershire, LE15 6QT Tel: 01572 722355

Newman Enterprize Ltd. The Gables, Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DT Tel 01793 853807 Mob 07435 780028

AgriArgo UK Ltd., Bryans Close, Harworth, Doncaster, DN11 8RY, South Yorkshire. Tel: 01302 757550 Email: info@agriargouk.com

Stewart Morley The Workshop, Bonds Farm, Morley Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6BY Tel 01253 799124 Mob 07802 638385

www.agriargouk.com

| Machinery

New “Smart Handling” prevents SCORPION overload Automatic boom extension limiter comes into play only when safe load limit is reached whilst avoiding the “hydraulic lockout” pitfall of other systems.

Bucket mode

As the telescoped boom is lowered, the extended boom will automatically retract, regardless of the load situation, so saving time and enabling the operator to concentrate on manoeuvring.

If required, the operator can simply override the automatic retraction using the boom out function, up to the overload limit at which point the boom telescoping will halt automatically.

When the boom is fully retracted, Smart Handling is automatically deactivated, so allowing the full tear-out force and lift capacity of the SCORPION to be used for pushing-up or digging.

n order to comply with the EN15000 longitudinal stability technical standard, as from October 2011 all CLAAS SCORPION telescopic handlers will feature as standard the new Smart Handling overload control system.

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“System is practical in agricultural working environments and actually provides operator benefits.”

Unlike some Longitudinal Load Moment Control (LLMC) overload systems that rely on the boom hydraulics locking out when safe limits are reached, the new “Smart Handling” overload system on the SCORPION limits boom extension automatically as the safe load limit is reached.

Whilst further extension may be limited, retraction, lifting or lowering are all still possible provided it is safe to do so, making the whole system far

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

less restrictive to the operator.

EN15000 requires that telescopic handlers should be fitted with an LLMC to ensure that a machine can safely reach forward without tipping-up.

However, this does have drawbacks where a machine is being used for agricultural work, for instance to push up grain or muck, or for digging, where a temporary overload results in the hydraulics being locked-out impairing performance.

How does “Smart Handling” work?

The Smart Handling system is far more than just an overload protection system. CLAAS has taken the opportunity to extend the functionality of the system, so that it can be used to automate certain work sequences and hence actually benefit the operator.

Using a rocker switch on the dashboard, the operator can set Smart Handling to work in either ‘Bucket’ or ‘Forklift’ mode.

Forklift mode

As the boom is lowered it will only retract when the overload limit is reached, and once a safe position is reached the boom will stop retracting. In addition, where the boom is at an angle of more than 40° the speed at which the boom is lowered is reduced to help maintain stability.

Below 40°, the range in which most forklift handling jobs are carried out, full boom retraction speed is maintained, so ensuring that quick cycle times can be achieved. Where it is safe to do so, the Smart Handling overload system can be

• Benthall Brosley, Shropshire • Craven Arms, Shropshire • Docklow, Herefordshire • Tarvin, Cheshire

temporarily bypassed, but it will be automatically re-activated after 60 seconds.

“The new “Smart Handling” overload system on the SCORPION limits boom extension automatically as the safe load limit is reached.”

On the SCORPION 6030CP model, when in ‘Forklift’ mode and the boom is beyond 40°, whilst being lowered, as in ‘Bucket’ mode the boom will also automatically retract, but can be over-ridden up to the safety limit by using the boom out function.

Below 40° the boom will stay extended as it is lowered until the overload limit is reached, when again it will automatically retract to a safe limit.

With the new Smart Handling overload system for the SCORPION telescopic handler, CLAAS has developed a system that fully meets the requirements of the EN15000 standard , but is also practical in agricultural working environments and actually provides operator benefits.

For further information visit www.claas.com

Tel: 01952 881000 Tel: 01588 673325 Tel: 01885 488884 Tel: 01829 749391

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 53

Brian Robinson Machinery Limited East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552 Fax: 01325 378088 www.brianrobinson.co.uk

Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon Leicester, LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191

David Henderson Tractors Limited Unit 12 Acomb Industrial Estate, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 4SA Tel: 01434 601966 Fax: 01434 605855

Sovereign Agricultural Services Victoria Yard, Hepworth, Holmfirth Huddersfield HD9 1TP Tel: 01484 689986

Mason Bros.

The North Yard, Lampeter Velfrey, Narbeth, Pembrokeshire SA67 8UL Tel: 01834 831653

Short & Abbott Mill Road, Bridgerule, Holsworthy, Nr Bude, Devon EX22 7EL Tel: 01288 381485

Snowdonia Tractors Cefn Coch Uchaf, Cwmystradlin, Garndolbenmean, Gwynedd, LL51 9AZ Tel: 07961 800816

TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310

D.W. Toppin Limited Green Lane Workshops, Langworthy CA10 1NB Tel: 01768 881770 Fax: 01768 881070 E: info@dwtoppin.co.uk

| Machinery

New Holland welcomed all to its stand at this year’s Tillage-Live Show proves ideal opportunity to showcase latest innovations and features of model line-up.

ew Holland, which has an extensive dealership network across the UK, showcased its powerful new T8 and T9 models on its stand at this year’s Tillage-Live show in Abingdon, Oxfordshire.

Revolutionising farming with its compact long wheel base design, the T8 offers improved stability and enhanced

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manoeuvrability in all applications, with an unmatched 55° turning circle. Front linkage lift capacity of up to 6,290kg ensures even the heaviest equipment can easily be operated. The most powerful Tier 4A ECOBlue™ SCR tractor in its segment, the T8 offers lower operating costs, longer service intervals and New

Holland’s exclusive Ground Speed Management concept to further boost productivity.

Sitting alongside was the impressive T9, New Holland’s most powerful tractor with outputs as high as 669 maximum Engine Power Management horsepower. The engines, developed in partnership with FPT Industrial, use ECOBlue™SCR technology with AdBlue/DEF to maximise performance and minimise emissions. With up to 40 per cent torque rise, increased maximum permissible weight of 25 tonnes and improved tyre fitting for reduced soil compaction, the T9 is a best-inclass heavy-duty machine.

“Revolutionising farming with its compact long wheel base design, the T8 offers improved stability and enhanced manoeuvrability” Also on display at the show was the popular T7 range.

Renowned for its flexibility and efficiency, the T7 – like its sister models – includes awardwinning SideWinder™II ergonomic control and ECOBlue™ SCR technology, combined with an improved PTO offering and SuperSteer™ front axle for best-in-class turning radius.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Machinery

Groundcare line-up from Kubota at the National Ploughing Championships, Ireland Visitors get to see flagship tractor and comprehensive groundcare range.

isitors to this year’s National Ploughing Championships were able to see Kubota's flagship M130X tractor for the first time in Ireland as well as a comprehensive range of the company's Groundcare equipment.

The M130X and the M Series agricultural tractors were on display on Murphy Machinery's stand. Meanwhile Kubota offered visitors a special free upgrade worth €1,000 on the RTV900 allterrain utility vehicle, which was exhibited alongside a range of sub-compact, compact and midrange tractors and ride-on mowers on its stand.

Murphy Machinery is the sole importer of Kubota M-Series tractors in the Republic of Ireland and exhibited a complete line-up at the event. Unveiled last year, the 130hp, M130X is

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the largest in Kubota’s range and has been designed to offer a real alternative to both 'expensive' and 'economy' tractors. It features a fourcylinder engine, electronic fuelling and engine governing as well as Intelli-Shift 16 Speed transmission with eight-speed powershift and auto field/road modes. It can be enhanced with the new LA2253 loader, which has a lifting capacity of 2.1 tons to a maximum height of 4.1m.

This was complemented by both the M108S and the M40 Series agricultural tractors. The M40 Series won the Silver medal at the 2009 Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) Machinery Awards and encompasses four models between 60 and 95hp.

On Kubota’s own stand, the manufacturer offered a special

56 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

free-upgrade package worth €1,000 on any new RTV900 allterrain utility vehicles purchased before the end of October 2011.

The RTV900 features a unique transmission system, advanced automotive type suspension, power steering and, thanks to high ground clearance, this fourwheel drive vehicle is comfortable across even the most difficult terrain. The upgrade, which is available on all five models, includes free roof, screen, wipers and a gear lever lock.

Alongside the RTV900 was the BX2350 sub compact tractor together with the STV and B3030 compact tractor and L5740 midrange model. Renowned for their reliability, performance and economy, these hardworking, powerful, no-nonsense tractors are extremely versatile and can

tackle the most difficult jobs with ease.

There was also six professional ride-on mowers on display including the GR1600-II and GR2100-II, the G Series, ZD326 Zero Turn Mower and the F3680 with High Tip collector. All of the mowers are powerful, economical and efficient, thus enabling users to achieve an expert finish whether they’re mowing a lawn, a paddock or a football pitch.

Kubota is a world leading manufacturer that has been at the forefront of innovation for commercial tractors, groundcare equipment and ride-on mowers since first entering the UK market more than 30 years ago.

The company’s Tractor and Groundcare Division portfolio now encompasses 24 tractor models between 12 and 130hp, 13 ride-on mower models, which cater for domestic and professional users alike and five variants of the class-leading RTV900 all-terrain utility vehicle.

Kubota machines have a legendary reputation for quality, performance, reliability and ease of operation. This is backed-up by a national network of specialist dealers who provide the highest standards of advice and aftersales service.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Bredy Agricentre Limited DORSET Tel: 01305 267151 www.bredy.co.uk

C. R. Willcocks & Co. Ltd. NEWTON ABBOT Tel: 01626 332444 www.crwillcocks.co.uk

Farmstar Limited MARR, DONCASTER Tel: 01302 786786 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Limited MKT WEIGHTON, YORKS Tel: 01430 875900 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Limited BRIGG, N.YORKSHIRE Tel: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Limited LONG BENNINGTON, NEWARK Tel: 01400 283818

Ravenhill Limited HEREFORD Tel: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill-ltd.co.uk

Lower Quinton Garages Ltd STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Tel: 01789 720265 www.lqgltd.co.uk

| Machinery

John Deere updates new 8R Series tractors Various changes make these machines more powerful yet cleaner and more fuel efficient.

ollowing the introduction in spring 2011 of the new 8R Series tractors from 260 to 360hp, designed to meet European Stage IIIB emissions regulations, John Deere has announced a number of significant updates to the range for 2012.

The 8260R, 8285R, 8310R, 8335R and 8360R tractors feature the new fuel efficient PowerTech PSX 9-litre sixcylinder engine, which provides higher horsepower and torque while utilising field-proven technology to meet the new emissions standards. These new tractors each offer an increase of 15hp over the previous 8R models, with the potential to add a further 35hp boost using Intelligent Power Management (IPM) in non-stationary pto and

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transport applications.

This engine utilises established exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) technology, with the addition of an exhaust filter that contains a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), as widely used in the construction and automotive industries. This automatically cleans itself during normal machine operation.

New tracked versions of the top three models will be available from November 2011, designated the 8310RT, 8335RT and 8360RT. These machines offer increased traction, flotation and pulling power for specific applications, and feature the established AirCushion suspension system.

A new integrated front hitch with a lift capacity of 5.2 tonnes is now available ex-factory, providing enough power to lift heavy front-mounted implements such as mowers or seed hoppers. The front hitch is compatible with the John Deere intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC) system, which allows the operator to automate multiple tractor functions simultaneously.

Available in three versions, a new independent 1000rpm front pto delivers up to 175hp and is equipped with an interchangeable flanged shaft.

This gives the operator more flexibility to use both older frontend equipment and the latest available models. In addition to the front hitch improvements, the new 8R Series tractors

feature up to six SCVs at the rear, providing even greater versatility for the most demanding applications.

There is the same choice of 16/5 automatic PowerShift or AutoPowr continuously variable transmissions on all new models, wheeled and tracked, except the top of the range 8360R, which is AutoPowr only.

Independent Link Suspension (ILS) is also available as standard with the 50kph AutoPowr transmission, and optional on the 40kph AutoPowr and PowerShift transmissions.

The new range is available with complimentary JDLink Ultimate telematics plus Service ADVISOR remote monitoring and diagnostics systems for the first year, as well as a new, advanced GreenStar 3 CommandCenter cab display.

New ActiveCommand Steering (ACS), which won a DLG gold medal at Agritechnica in 2009, is also optionally available. The new John Deere 8R Series tractors are also fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key.

“The new fuel efficient PowerTech PSX 9-litre sixcylinder engine, which provides higher horsepower and torque while utilising field-proven technology.”

John W. Doubleday Ltd John Deere Sales & Service HOLBEACH, ST JOHN’S SPALDING, LINCS. PE12 8SQ Tel: 01406 540261/540293/540334 Fax: 01406 540262

Derwent Road, Malton, North Yorks YO17 0NW Tel: 01653 695094 Fax: 01653 697979 Holme Road, Market Wighton, York YO4 3EW Tel: 01430 872421 Fax: 01430 872461

Agricultural Ltd

RBM

Clarborough Hill, Redford, Notts DN22 9EA Tel: 01777 704823 Fax: 01777 710299 Westrum Lane, Brigg, Lincolnshire DN20 9EY Tel: 01652 650600 Fax: 01652 658180 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Edtate, Louth LN11 0WA Tel: 01507 617588

www.rbmagricultural.co.uk

58 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Anker Of Coates

Eldernell Lane, Coates, Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777

Units 15-17, Brook Farm, Ellington, Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk

J.T. Friskney Limited

17-29 West Street,Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 5JE Tel: 01507 523233 Dealers For Central Lincolnshire Tel: 01205 361281

Farmstar Limited

Grove Farm, Church Lane, Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU Tel: 01302 786786

Becklands Park Ind Est., York Road, Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA Tel: 01430 875900 Bridge Street, Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF Tel: 01652 654944

Ravenhill

Beech Business Park, Tillington Road, Hereford HR4 9QJ Tel: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill-ltd.co.uk

Sharnford Tractors Ltd

Lodge Farm,Broughton Road, Frolesworth,Lutterworth, Leicestershire,LE17 5EH Tel: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

| Groundcare

New STIHL MS 241 C-M chain saw The compact professional, packed with innovations and always raring to go

TIHL is known worldwide for its innovations. Particularly in the chain saw sector, where it has led the way for many years.

Now proving the point, the new STIHL MS 241 C-M chain saw is packed with a whole host of technologies, making it their most advanced compact professional ever. Firstly it is future-proofed, with the eco- and fuel-efficient 2-MIX engine ensuring it is fully compliant with upcoming EU emissions standards. Its clever M-Tronic technology means the chain saw

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is selftuning, so it is always at its best and ever raring to go. And details like a substantially longer air filter life* and vibrations so low you can work all day with the saw, make this a genuine advance in its compact class.

No wonder STIHL claims “It’s what forestry workers have been waiting for”.

Beneath the neat, compact exterior of the new STIHL MS 241 C-M chain saw lie some of the most advanced chain saw technologies available today.

The STIHL 2-MIX engine for

60 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

example, is eco-friendly and economically efficient; it not only cuts running costs by using up to 20% less fuel, it means the chain saw is future-proof, being fully compliant with strict EU emissions standards due in force soon. When it comes to performance, the impressive 2.2 kW engine also clearly delivers: excellent drive power, responsive pick-up and plenty of torque.

The engine also features innovative STIHL M-Tronic technology - a fully electronic engine management system that means the engine is effectively self-tuning, always at its best and always raring to go.

More advances in the MS 241 C-M chain saw include a new long-life air filter system with pre-separation and a newly developed HD2 air filter which is

extremely efficient. So efficient in fact that the air filter lasts substantially longer than its predecessor. And when the filter does need cleaning or replacement, the chain saw’s smooth one-piece shroud is simply removed with three quick release locks.

Another great maintenance feature, when it comes to changing the guide bar or removing the chain, the sprocket cover nuts on the side of the machine are now captive – so they will not come off (or get lost in the woods). It is a seemingly small detail that will make a big difference to users.

Working with the new chain saw is both productive and pleasurable. The saw is light and compact, with excellent handling and great manoeuvrability. The new professional grade antivibration system reduces vibrations to just 2.9 m/s2, so the chain saw is smooth handling and makes work less strenuous. It also means users can work comfortably with the chain saw throughout a normal 8-hour day.

The MS 241 C-M chain saw is available now from servicing dealers nationwide. For more details and to find local Approved Dealers, visit the website : www.stihl.co.uk, or Freephone 0800 137574.

N.B. * Compared to its predecessor.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Groundcare

Keeping the chainsaw on cut when miles from the workshop Avoid the extreme inconvenience that a simple mistake can make when cutting. armers, game keepers and land owners know that a chainsaw can be rendered useless simply by touching the chain on a stone, metal or even soil. When you are out on the land or in the woods, miles from the workshop, the ability to resharpen on the spot is now a reality, allowing the job to be completed.

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“The OREGON® brand continues to be the choice of the trade in more than 100 countries.”

The new clip-on PowerSharp® kit from OREGON® will resharpen PowerSharp® chain in a matter of seconds. The chain stays on the saw, and you and the saw are back at work in no time at all.

PowerSharp® now being

stocked by leading agricultural merchants including Ben Burgess, Ernest Dow and Lister Wilder in addition to 200 PowerSharp® stockists throughout the UK. From October 1st through to the end of December they are running a special campaign offering £5 back for your used chainsaw chain when you buy a full PowerSharp® system.

The purpose-designed PowerSharp® chain and sharpening stone, retailing from under £25, are the heart of the system and are replaced, like a normal chain, when worn out.

The secondary components, the guide bar and bar-mounted sharpener that are specially designed to work together, are for many users a one-off purchase and also start under £25.

PowerSharp® is suitable for the majority of 12, 14 and 16-

inch petrol and electric chain saws in the UK including Stihl and Husqvarna. They are available throughout the country from Blount (UK) Ltd’s dealer network. Kits are also available in the United States and throughout Europe. Find out more at www.powersharp.co.uk Blount Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of cutting chains, guide bars and chain drive sprockets for chainsaws. It is also a leading manufacturer and

supplier of outdoor equipment parts.

The OREGON® brand continues to be the choice of the trade in more than 100 countries.

“When you are out on the land or in the woods, miles from the workshop, the ability to resharpen on the spot is now a reality, allowing the job to be completed.”

FAST, EASY, SHARP The new sharpening system

Farmers don’t have time to waste.

Invest in PowerSharp® and start saving time now.

Can you sharpen your chainsaw chain in 5 seconds? Try with OREGON® PowerSharp®!

TRADE

&*SAVE *

5

£

Buy a full OREGON® PowerSharp® system

PowerSharp® is a revolutionary saw chain and sharpening tool that gives chainsaw users the power to sharpen their PowerSharp® chain, on the saw, on the job, in seconds.

Available for most major chainsaw brands.

before the 31st December 2011 and we’ll buy back your used chain for £5*

* At participating stockists.

Visit www.powersharp.co.uk to find your nearest stockist 3318/11

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Groundcare

Mitox Launch Range-Topping 62cc Chainsaw Most powerful machines in the line-up specifically aimed at farmers and landowners.

itox are pleased to announce the launch of two new 62cc Chainsaw models.

Expanding the best-selling range of domestic, landowner and farm specification saws, the new models designated 6220 and 6224 become the most powerful machines in the Mitox Chainsaw Series line-up.

The Mitox Chainsaw Series is already immensely popular with Mitox users , having earned a reputation for offering a fantastic combination of performance,

M

features, and reliability, all at incredible prices. The Mitox Chainsaw Series offers an outstanding performance to price ratio for domestic users, and the new 6220 and 6224 models are no exception: as with every Mitox Chainsaw, Japanese Walbro carburettors ensure optimal performance and reliability, whilst Oregon brand chains ensure superb cutting

capability through all types of wood. With a choice of either a 20” guide bar on the 6220 or 24” on the 6224, the largest cutting task in any domestic garden, smallholding or farm is dealt with comfortably.

At VAT inclusive retail prices of just £269.00 and £279.00 respectively, the 6220 and 6224 offer outstanding value for money. Other standard features on both models are usually only found on top end professional saws: a decompression valve greatly reduces resistance in the starter rope, whilst the oil flow rate can easily be adjusted to suit different wood types in seconds thanks to the tool-free adjuster

dial located on the top cover of the machine. Access to the air filter is also achieved without tools; making the 6220 and 6224 flexible, powerful saws that can easily be adjusted and serviced, even when away from the shed or garage. Perfect for the demanding domestic or farm user looking for professional performance at a fraction of the price.

“Performance, features, and reliability, all at incredible prices.”

Mitox products are only available through specialist garden machinery dealers, who can be found via a dealer locator found at the Mitox website www.mitoxgm.co.uk

FAST GROWING SHELTER, SCREENING, HEDGING, FUEL OR FODDER HYBRID TREES GROWING 6 TO 8 FEET PER YEAR Hybrid Willows and Poplars bred for phenomenally rapid growth of 6 to 8 feet per year. Easy to grow and tolerant of the poorest soils and sites.

They make ideal screens, hedges and wind-breaks and/or a ready log supply and goat fodder.

Willow screen 18 months after planting

All sizes available from 12 inch slips to 8 foot trees.

Prices from £46 per 100+VAT including nationwide delivery to most areas.

For further advice, and a free information pack, Phone John and Monica Spanton on 01404 812229 or write to Bowhayes Trees, Venn Ottery, St. Mary, Devon EX11 1RY Fax No: 01404 815800.

Poplar tree 18 months after planting

Website: www.bowhayestrees.co.uk

Please send for a descriptive list.

62 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

NATIONAL FRUIT SPECIALISTS Over 350 Apple Varieties on M26 8ft, and (many on M27 4ft) Ballerina Trees, Patio Trees, Upright Cordons, Family Trees of Cherry, Plum, Apple, Pear, Peach and So Much More!

Prices held for early orders

DEACONS NURSERY (FM) Godshill, I.o.W, PO38 3HW (01983) 840750 (24 hrs) Tel (01983) 522243 Fax (01983) 523575 info@deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk www.deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Competition

Websites

visit us online…

The advertisers below would like to highlight their online presence and request that you visit their website to find out more information about the products and services they offer. Also visit Farming Monthly at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

LIMEX Contact our sales team:

Tel 0870 2402314 • Fax 0870 2402729

E-mail: limex@britishsugar.com www.limex.co.uk

Win BBC Good Food Show Winter tickets!

21 years old this year! and taking place 23rd - 27th November at The NEC Birmingham.

he BBC Good Food Show Winter is 21 this year and to celebrate we have teamed up with the organisers to offer you the chance to win…. pairs of general admission tickets.

The BBC Good Food Show is

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To enter: Answer the following question: Q, Name an exhibitor that has been with the Show from the very beginning?

the biggest and best food Show in the country and has been paving the way for food Shows for the past 21 years. This year the line up is just as stellar as always with top foodie faces including John Torode, Gregg Wallace, James Martin, Rick Closing date for entries is the 28th October 2011.

Entries by post to: Farming Monthly National, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ or email: competitions@farmingmonthly.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Stein, Glynn Purnell and many more taking to the 2000 seater Supertheatre. There will be hundreds of exhibitors from Flavours of Spain to British Fine Foods and Luponde tea plus come and see some exhibitors who have been with us from the very beginning including Foxes Spices and The Curry Sauce Company. With Christmas just around the corner it will be the perfect place to pick up inspiration to make your Christmas stand out from the crowds this year and try something different!

Ticket prices start at just £20.50 To book tickets please visit

BBCGoodFoodShow.com or call 0844 581 1360 Terms and conditions for tickets and giveaways for BBC Haymarket Exhibitions All tickets are general admission excluding Saturday.

Tickets are non refundable and non-exchangeable. Ticket terms and conditions apply.

Tickets will be mailed out directly to the competition holder by BBC Haymarket Exhibitions. It is the responsibility of the competition holder to forward tickets to the winners.

Competition holder to confirm receipt of tickets and subsequent delivery to winners to BBC Haymarket Exhibitions.

Alternatively, you can usually enter on our website at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk/ competitions

Last months winner of the Dickies Wax Jacket was:

Usual rules apply and the publishers decision is final in any dispute arising from this competition.

Thanks to everyone else for their entries! There were so many!

C. Bayliss - Lincolnshire

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 63

| ATV

Suzuki ATVs make an appearance at the V Festival Ideal vehicles to serve as quick response for East of England Ambulance crews.

selection of Suzuki's readyfor-work ATVs joined the East of England Ambulance Service to make an appearance at the 2011 V Festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford on 20th-21st August.

The ATVs, which included the Ozark 250 and KingQuad 400 Auto models, returned to the show for the third consecutive year and were relied on as quick response vehicles for the East of England Ambulance crew. The lightweight 2-wheel drive Ozark

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250 and the economic 4-wheel drive KingQuad 400 provided a perfect balance of performance and practicality in a package small enough to manoeuvre through the busy grounds of the festival.

The Ozark's 5-speed with reverse transmission and the KingQuad's selectable 2 or 4wheel drive made both models ideal for navigating the different types of terrain around the festival site. With Suzuki's

64 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

ergonomic T-shaped seat fitted to both models, they also provided all-day comfort for the medical staff on duty.

Jon Moore, General Manager, East of England Ambulance Service, commented "With over 90,000 visitors at this year's V Festival, the environment presents a few unique challenges for us. The Suzuki ATVs provide us with allterrain access and their size and manoeuvrability also allows us to move around in areas where a larger vehicle would present too much of a hazard. The ATVs ensure we have a quick response to any area of the site at all times and are used in a multitude of ways to provide medical command and control as well a quick response to our patients."

Suzuki's range of ATVs have a variety of practical features such as 4-wheel drive, differential lock, power steering and fuel injection, and with models from the lightweight Ozark 250 right through to the KingQuad 750 Power Steering you can find the right tool for every job.

“A perfect balance of performance and practicality.�

To see more of the Suzuki ATV range or to book a test ride, find your local dealer at www.suzuki-atv.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Day & Coles Agricultural Ltd

D.H. Wadsworth & Sons

Southam Agricultural Services

Newton Close, Park Farm, Wellingbourgh, Northants NN8 6UW

204 Barnsley Road, Flockton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 4AB

Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 2DH

Telephone: 01933 673900

Telephone: 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

Telephone: 01926 813426 www.southamagriservices.co.uk

D.H. Wadsworth & Sons

Mid Wales ATV Centre

28 Derwent Road, York Road Industrial Estate, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6YB

Telephone: 01653 692244 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Llanefyl, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0ES

Telephone: 01938 820460 Telephone: 07919 523499 www.midwalesatv.com

The Tractor Shop Units 5&6, 25 Nottingham Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, Louth

Telephone: 01507 600051 www.thetractorshop.org.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 65

| ATV

New Honda Foreman signs in All-new TRX500 strengthens Honda ATV line up.

onda (UK) has further strengthened its marketleading product offering with the introduction of the fifth generation of its heavy-duty ‘Foreman’ ATV. Two new models will be added to the Foreman family - TRX500FM (manual shift) and TRX500FE (electric shift) – which have undergone a total redesign from the ground up, using an entirely different design procedure that places extensive customer feedback at the heart of the changes.

Taking the durability and performance for which Honda ATVs are famed, the new Foreman models now come with a raft of significant new features designed to improve rider experience, increase usability and meet the needs of the demanding utility market sector. redesigned engine – a sophisticated water-cooled, 475cc single-cylinder, OHV fourstroke engine with a higher compression ratio provides excellent ‘low down’ power -

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perfect for pulling away with heavier loads. new fuel injection system – featuring a 36mm throttle body that provides instant throttle response, consistent performance through the power range and trouble-free cold weather starting. new rear suspension – the combination of a new steel swingarm design and a single, high-quality shock absorber with 174mm travel enables wellcontrolled power delivery, as well as increased comfort, precision and work capability. adjustable pre-loading – both front and rear shocks are adjustable and pre-loadable, allowing the user to set personal preferences according to terrain and the task in hand.

The new Foreman has a different look and feel, too. All new body styling gives it a more purposeful and ‘open’ appearance and redesigned front/rear mudguards offer exceptional mud and splash

66 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

protection. Improved steering geometry, new seat design, upgraded rider position and a smoother gear change all combine to offer a first-class rider experience that is considerably less fatiguing during prolonged use.

To ease financial strain in a challenging economic climate, Honda (UK) is pleased to offer a little extra comfort in the pricing of its new Foreman models in the form of an introductory offer valid until 31st December 2011 that sees both models priced at the same recommended retail price as their predecessors – TRX500FM at £6,515.00 ex VAT and TRX500FE at £6,835.00 ex VAT. Both will be available from the Honda (UK) Authorised Dealer Network at the end of September 2011 and, as with all Honda ATVs, the new models come with a two-year warranty*.

Honda (UK) National Dealer Council representatives, Tom Taylor (Taylor ATV) and Tim Rochfort (Cleanacres Machinery Ltd.) offer the following opinions of the new Foreman: Tom Taylor: “In my opinion, the machine is very good indeed and it carries a lot more ‘punch’ than its predecessor. The most outstanding area of improvement is the increased power and torque. The steering is more positive and the ride is far improved because the

suspension is better.”

Tim Rochfort:“Significant improvements have been made to body work, rider position and comfort. The seat is softer, the steering lighter and it is a much cleaner and drier ride.

The single rear shock absorber offers a new level of comfort, control and stability that operators will really appreciate … without any of the “roll” that is more common to IRS. It’s much better for towing, too.

“In my view, it’s much easier to ride for a longer period of time - something customers have been asking for.”

Phil Webb, Head of Power Equipment at Honda (UK) comments: “We didn’t want to simply add a few new bits to the old Foreman, we wanted a completely reworked machine featuring significant changes that people really wanted. So, we undertook a comprehensive survey of customers and input their feedback into the design process and this exceptional new machine is as much a testimony to them as it is to our engineers and designers’ clever design. The Foreman has definitely evolved but will continue its heritage as a classleading, heavy-duty ATV.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

0 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Polaris offers 0% finance until December 31st It’s even harder to resist purchasing a Polaris now with genuine savings to be made and an easy finance option to ease you into the seat. olaris is offering business users 0% finance on all new Polaris ATVs and UTVs from the 1st October to the 31st of December 2011.

The 0% finance scheme will be over twenty four months and is managed through Polaris’ finance partners Rural Finance.

The deal allows for up to a maximum 80% of the Recommended Retail Price and will include an accessory subsidy of up to £1000 excluding VAT on genuine Polaris accessories.

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.

The 5% discount for NFU members is also applicable, making this an even more attractive proposition.

P

%

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 67

| ATV

The Polaris range: Never bette 0% finance offer means there’s never been a better time to try Polaris. Don’t forget your 5% NFU discount too!

68 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

er and never more affordable he new Polaris Ranger CREW diesel shares the same proven 904cc, three-cylinder YANMAR® diesel engine as the Ranger Diesel, coupled with the ability to carry six adults.

The engine is rubbermounted to transfer minimal

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extra comfort during travel and 10-inches/25.4 cm of tilt steering travel offers plenty of steering wheel position options for the driver.

The Ranger CREW Diesel’s work ethic also includes a 55 amp alternator that gives the

Ranger Side-by-Sides are known to be the smoothest riding vehicles on the market and the Ranger CREW Diesel is no exception. Its long wheelbase combined with its fullyadjustable suspension creates a very smooth ride, even when

Demand True All-Wheel Drive with VersaTrac that keeps you moving, automatically engaging all four wheels when you need more forward traction and reverting back to two-wheel drive when you don’t. When in two-wheel drive, the VersaTrac

The new CREW: now available in diesel And now available with 0% finance... vibration to the operator, and provides low-speed torque to work harder. The fully-sealed, fixed center distance clutch drivetrain keeps water out of the clutches and provides better performance than competitive models.

Inside the cab, the vehicle has the ability to carry six adults comfortably due to its superior comfort and ergonomics, including a slide-through cab design for easy entrance and exit that also provides lots of legroom.

Sloping seat backs provide

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operator the ability to run many hard working, higher electrical load accessories, such as ploughs, extra lights, cab heaters and fans at the same time. It boasts a monstrous oneton towing ability to tackle the toughest jobs and comes standard with a 2-inch hitch to tow accessories with ease. Its 1,000 lb/454.5 kg capacity rear dump box has gas-assist dumping operation and accommodates many hardworking PURE Polaris accessories that can be fitted on and off in seconds.

fully-loaded.

The vehicle’s suspension is the only four-corner adjustable suspension system that features Dual A-Arms with exclusive topmounting-point adjustability. For recreational riding, the user can adjust to a softer setting or adjust stiffer for heavy-duty work. With a suspension travel of 9.6 in/24.4 cm up front, 9 in/22.9 cm in the rear and a ground clearance of 11.5 in/29.2 cm, the Ranger CREW Diesel provides a very comfortable ride.

To complement the suspension and travel, it also features On-

Turf Mode switch unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns that won’t tear up the grass.

“Tthe vehicle has the ability to carry six adults comfortably.”

The Ranger CREW Diesel will be available in Sage Green.

0800 915 6720 www.polarisbritain.com

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 69

| News

ANDREWS OF AUTOLINKS HINDHEAD LTD Lake RoadRoad, Garage, Portsmouth Brynmawr, Hindhead, Gwent Surrey GU26 6AL NP23 4AP Tel Tel 01428 01495605544 310548 www.andrewsofhindhead.co.uk www.autolinks.co.uk

BIKER WAREHOUSE DORSET QUADS ANDREWS OF Langford Warehouse, LIMITED HINDHEAD LTD London Road, Dorchester Portsmouth Bicester, Oxfordshire Road, 07969 047502 Hindhead, OX26Tel6HG EmailSurrey sales@dorsetquads.co.uk GU26 6AL Telephone 08709 192939 www.dorsetquads.co.uk Tel 01428 605544 www.andrewsofhindhe

70 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

DORSET QUADS EXTREME SPORTS XP BIKES NORTH CORNWALL BIKESQUADS ad.co.uk BIKER Unit 5, TOVE 192939 DORSET Fleet RdENGINEERING Industrial Larkhall,XP Lanarkshire, LIMITED Lanarkshire, MOTORCYCLE CENTRE WAREHOUSE LIMITED Dorchester Estate, Unit 15, Yorks Farm Bus. Centre,ML9 2EXLarkhall, 2EX 881885 YorksNr.Farm, Hospital Rd, Stratton, LangfordHolbeach, Warehouse, Dorchester Telephone 07969 047502Bude, Spalding, TelephoneML9 01698 Tel 01698 881885 Watling Street, Telephone 07969 Email Cornwall EX23 9BT London Road, Lincolnshire PE12 8LYTowcester, Contact Ian Contact Ian Tel 01288 355162 Northants, NN12 6AD Bicester, Tel Oxfordshire 047502 sales@dorsetquads.co.uk 01406 420002 www.xpbikes.co.uk www.xpbikes.co.uk www.ncmc.co.uk Tel 01327 831584 Email www.dorsetquads.co.uk OX26 6HG www.xtreme-sport.co.uk Telephone 08709 sales@dorsetquads.c www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Juke gears up for improved efficiency Optimization programme further reduces emmissions and boosts fuel economy - at no additional cost. ar buyers opting for Nissan’s sector-defining Juke crossover are about to get even more than they bargained for. As part of Nissan’s constant drive to improve its products, both the 1.6-litre petrol and 1.5-litre dCi diesel drivetrains have undergone an optimisation programme to further reduce emissions and boost fuel economy.

Thanks to revised gear ratios, 1.6-litre petrol and 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesel models fitted with manual transmissions are now cleaner and more fuel-efficient.

The 1.6-litre petrol variant now returns 47.1mpg on the combined cycle – an improvement of 2.3mpg – and emits just 139g/km of CO2, a reduction of 8g/km. As a result of these changes, the 1.6-litre petrol model now sits in VED Band E, meaning that owners will pay £15 less to tax their cars.

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With the fuel savings factored in, the optimisation changes will save the typical owner £232 over the course of three years*.

Customers opting for the revised 1.5-litre dCi diesel see fuel economy improve from 55.4mpg to 57.6mpg on the combined cycle, and emissions fall from 134g/km to just 129g/km. As with the petrol model, the revised diesel-

powered Juke drops a VED band (from E to D), and now costs just £95 a year to tax. Over the course of three years, the savings add up to an estimated £171.92*.

The icing on the cake for all Juke buyers is that these revisions come at no additional cost. On-the-road prices have been held, meaning that buyers really can make a saving by

choosing the Juke.

Over 22,000 Jukes have been sold in the UK since it was launched on 24th September 2010, replicating the success of the Nissan Qashqai by moving out of a niche and into the mainstream. *Savings based on annual mileage of 10k per year and national average fuel prices: petrol 136.2p / diesel 140.3p.

KIA to introduce third shift at Zilina factory Rising demand leads to new jobs and increased capacity at Slovakia factory.

ia is to introduce a third production shift at its European production facility in Slovakia and recruit 1,000 new employees to keep up with rising demand. Recruitment will be completed by December to allow three-shift operations at Zilina in the first quarter of 2012.

“The creation of the third shift

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at Zilina is the latest step in Kia’s long-term process of building cars locally to best meet local consumers’ needs and tastes,” commented Paul Philpott, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe. “Strong demand for all our models and especially our new Sportage compact SUV, made here in Europe, means we

need to significantly increase production at our Slovakia facility.”

Representing an investment of more than Euro 1 billion, the ultra-modern Zilina plant is designed for maximum flexibility to accommodate new models and respond to fluctuations in overall market trends. The

Sportage, spacious Venga MPV and cee’d family – five-door hatchback, estate and threedoor – can be manufactured simultaneously on each of the final assembly lines.

Last year, Kia manufactured more than 729,000 vehicles outside Korea, with production in Europe, China and the USA accounting for 34.2 per cent of the global total of 2.1 million units. This year sales have climbed 18.7 per cent in Europe, 24.4 per cent in China and 36.9 per cent in the USA. Increased US demand prompted a third shift at Kia’s West Point, Georgia, plant building Sorento and Optima, boosting employment to 3,000.

In Zilina, the 1,000 new jobs at Kia Motors Slovakia will be across all stages of the manufacturing process and will be suitable mainly for skilled candidates with a technical background. It is also expected that several thousand new jobs will be created at component suppliers located across the Slovak Republic.

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 71

| Motors

Tow-tal victory for Volkswagen Manufacturer wins big at Caravan Club Towcar Awards. he Volkswagen Jetta Sport 2.0-litre TDI DSG has been named the winner of The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2012 awards, on top of its victory over 12 rivals in the under £25,000 class.

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“The Jetta Sport 2.0-litre TDI DSG has a 140 PS common rail diesel engine, a sixspeed DSG gearbox, and produces impressive amounts of torque – 320 Nm from just 1,750 rpm.

Despite its compact dimensions, it has a generous noseweight of 75kg.“ The Jetta was not Volkswagen’s only double winner: the Touareg Escape 3.0litre V6 TDI proved it pulls everything but punches, securing victory in both the over £32,000 class and the all-wheel-

drive vehicles over 1800 kg category.

The award was presented at a prestigious ceremony held at the Royal Automobile Club in London. The vehicles were voted for by an 11-strong panel of judges, which conducted rigorous towing tests at the Millbrook Testing Ground in Bedfordshire. Here, 30 vehicles were put through their paces to assess their towing ability, acceleration, braking, ability to cope with demanding hill starts and an assessment of usability in terms of everyday caravanning.

The judges said of the Jetta: ‘This car is as controlled as it is quick, offering stable towing both at speed and while driving around hills and bends. It steers smartly and accurately with little body roll, yet offers a welldamped ride even with a lively caravan on the back. It zooms up hills, stops on them securely and pulls away cleanly. And when you’re not driving it, it’s great to look at.’

‘A near-ultimate towcar,’ was the judges’ opinion of the Touareg. They went on to say that: ‘The Touareg flew round the bowl at Millbrook with never a twitch, even on the hill circuit.

On-rails cornering was interspersed with an apparently insignificant collection of steep gradients, including hill-stops and starts.’

The Jetta Sport 2.0-litre TDI DSG has a 140 PS common rail diesel engine, a six-speed DSG gearbox, and produces impressive amounts of torque – 320 Nm from just 1,750 rpm.

Despite its compact dimensions,

it has a generous noseweight of 75 kg.

The Touareg Escape 3.0-litre V6 TDI comes with a 245 PS common rail diesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It features permanent 4XMOTION fourwheel drive, raised suspension, a centre differential lock and a rear axle mechanical differential lock to ensure it can cope with treacherous conditions off-road.

Torque is a prodigious 550 Nm from 2,000 rpm, while noseweight is 140 kg, and overall towing capacity a mammoth 3500 kg.

G GET ET A 5 Y YEAR EAR WARRANTY WARRANT Y FOR FOR F FREE. REE.* S Subaru’s ubaru’s p permanent ermanent Symmetrical Sy mmet rical All-Wheel All-Wheel Drive Drive and and the the Subaru Subaru Boxer Boxer engines engines mean mean the the Legacy Legacy and and Outback Ou tback have ha v e exceptional exceptional performance, per formance, h handling, andling, g grip r ip a and nd c control. ont rol. Now No w w wherever herever you’re you’re heading heading and and whatever what ever you’re you’re planning planning tto o do, do, yyou ou c can an ensure ensure that that yyou’ll ou’ll h have ave e even ven more mo r e p peace e ac e o off m mind ind ffor or the the next nex t 5 years years with wi th our our free f ree 5 year y ear w warranty. arrant y.*

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Ashburton Motor K Keith eith P Price rice G Garages arages Works LTD Peartree L Llanwenarth lanwenar tCross, hC Citra i t ra Ashburton Newton A Abergavenny, ber gaveAbbott, nny, N NP8 P8Devon 1 1EP EP TQ13 7RB Tel: 01364 T Tel: el: 0 01873 1873 8 811555 1652302 1555 W Web: e b : k keithpricegarages.com e i t h p r i c e g a r a ges.com www.devon-subaru.co.uk

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Carstins Carstins C ar s t i n s 324 Common 324 324 Station SStation t a t ion Road, RRoad, oad, B Balsall aBalsall l s all C Common om mon West Midlands CV7 7EF W West es t M Midlands, idlands, C CV7 V7 7 7EF EF Tel: 01676 533145 Tel: T el: 0 01676 1676 533145 53 3145 W Web: e b: c carstins.co.uk ar s t ins.co.uk www.carstins.co.uk

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CALL CA LL IIN N OR OR C CALL A LL U US S T TODAY. ODAY.

* *For For b built-in uil t - in p peace eac e o off m mind, ind, s selected elec t ed new new Subaru Subaru vehicles vehicles marketed market ed by

by Subaru Subaru ((UK) UK) L Ltd td a are re c covered o ver ed b byy a 5 Y Year/60,000 ear/60,000 m mile ile ((whichever whichever iis ss sooner) ooner) W Warranty a r r an t y ((excluding e x c lu ding c clutch lu t c h d driven r i v en p plate). lat e). Bodywork Bod y work is is covered cover ed by by a 12 12 Year Year Anti-Corrosion A n t i - C o r r o sion W Warranty. arrant y. P Paintwork aint work iis sc covered o ver ed b byy a 3 Y Year ear W Warranty. arrant y. A Added dded rreassurance eassurance iis s p provided r o v ide d b byy a c comprehensive omprehensi ve 3 Year Year Recovery Recover y and and Assistance Assis t ance Programme Pr ogramme vvalid ali d b both o th iin n tthe he U UK Ka and nd E Europe. ur ope. 5 Y Year ear W Warranty a r r an t y o offer f f er a applies pplies tto on new ew L Legacy e gac y a and nd Outback O u tback vvehicles e hi c l e s o only nl y rregistered egis t er ed between be t ween April April 1st 1s t and and October Oc t ober 31st 31s t 2011 2011 a att p participating ar ticipating Dealers De ale r s o only. nl y. E Errors r r or s a and nd o omissions mi s s ions e excepted. xcept ed. W While hil e s stocks t ocks last. la s t.

Warranty W arrant y is is transferable. t rans ferable. Retail Re t a i l s sales ale s o only. nl y.

Legacy Legacy rrange ange fuel f uel consumption consumption iin nm mpg pg ((L/100km): L/100k m): Ur Urban ban ffrom r om 2 24.1 4.1 ((11.7) 11.7) to t o 37.2 37.2 ((7.6).

7.6). E Extra x t ra urban urban from f rom 41.5 41.5 (6.8) (6.8) to t o 53.3 53.3 (5.3).

(5.3). C Combined ombined from f rom 32.8 32.8 (8.6) (8.6) tto o 46.3 46.3 (6.1).

(6.1). CO CO2 emissions emissions ffrom r om 1 199 99 tto o 161 161 ((g/km). g/k m). O Outback u tback range range fuel f uel consumption consumption in in mpg mpg (L/100km): (L/100k m): Urban Urban from f r om 1 19.6 9.6 ((14.4) 14.4) tto o 36.7 36.7 ((7.7).

7.7). E Extra x t ra urban urban ffrom r om 3 37.7 7.7 ((7.5) 7.5) tto o5 50.4 0.4 ((5.6).

5.6). Combined Combined ffrom rom 28.2 28.2 (10.0) (10.0) to t o 44.1 44.1 (6.4).

(6.4). CO CO2 emissions emissions from f r om 2 232 32 to to 1 167 67 (g/km). (g/k m).

72 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS A new take on the compact SUV. itroën is extending its successful C4 range with the introduction of the New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS. The New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS redefines the codes of compact SUV design, bringing together contemporary styling and technological innovation.

Ideally suited to modern lifestyles, C4 AIRCROSS introduces a sense of escape into everyday driving. This new Citroën body style draws upon the brand’s technological excellence, combining the grip of an off-roader with the ride and driveability of a saloon.

Ecologically considerate, the model also boasts some of the lowest CO2emissions in its segment.

Available with two and fourwheel drive versions in some markets, the New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS will be launched in Europe at the end of the first half of 2012. The car will go on sale in the UK during the second half of 2012.

The styling of the C4 AIRCROSS draws upon the brand’s DNA, combining the vitality of other Citroën models in the range with the strong presence of an off-roader. The sculpted horizontal lines and aerodynamic vents of the front end accentuate the model’s compact appearance. The contours of the bonnet - visible from the driver's seat - the wide wheel arches and the reduced front and rear overhangs all combine to enhance the overall impression of robustness.

The distinctive light signature at the front illuminated both day and night - is created by LEDs integrated into the vertical vents. The

C

LES’ LARGES WA T

IN Est. 1988 R DE LE PEN DEN T 4X4 DEA

# Also new & pre-owned 4 door Pick-ups supplied

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shape of the large 18-inch wheels and the rear lights are directly inspired by the Hypnos concept car, reworked for optimal air flow and reduced CO2emissions. Seen from the side, the inverted shark fin at the rear also hints at the design of the Hypnos concept. The fin is decorated at the tip with a chrome compass motif to denote the model’s inclusion in Citroën’s SUV family. The sophisticated design includes indicator repeaters in the door mirrors, light guides in the rear light clusters and a reversing camera built into the chrome trim on the tailgate.

The New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is fitted with a latest generationfour-wheel transmission system, providing optimal handling in all conditions. This technology allows the car to be driven permanently in four-wheel drive mode, with the torque optimally distributed between the front and rear wheels.

Using the single control positioned behind the gear lever, the driver can manually select one of the three transmission modes: 2WD, for optimal fuel consumption 4WD, which automatically distributes the torque between the front and rear axles ‘Lock’,which provides maximum traction in severe conditions.

The C4 AIRCROSS fulfils Citroën’s ecological commitments with its HDi 110 engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. This model is one of the front-runners in its segment for low CO2emissions. In some markets this efficient Euro 5

engine will be available with four as well as two-wheel drive.

The model’s compact dimensions - 4.34m long, 1.80m wide, 1.63m high - and 10.6m turning circle ensure outstanding manoeuvrability in the urban environment. The comfort of this 5-seater is worthy of the saloon segment above, while the 442-litre boot comfortably meets the demands of modern life.

Serenely confident on the road, drivers enjoy a clear view from the raised driving position with the specially developed chassis and suspension delivering the optimum balance between comfort and road

holding. All occupants can enjoy a true sense of well-being thanks to the large panoramic glass sunroof, which fills the cabin with light during the day and is illuminated by integrated LEDs at night.

The New Citroën C4 AIRCROSS’ design is also focused on ease of use in everyday driving. A high level of specification includes GPS navigation with touch-screen, a reversing camera and USB/Bluetooth® connectivity for portable audio players.

High Noon White Mill Carmarthen Tel: 01267 290900 Fax: 01267 290100 www.geraintjones4x4.co.uk October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 73

Grenson Mitsubishi

Lewis Mitsubishi

Rodgers of Plymouth

Middlewich Road, Woolstanwood, Crewe CW2 8UY Tel: 01270 507490

Ronic House, Main Rd, Bosham, Chichester PO18 8PN Tel: 01243 574141

Brixton Road, Brixton, Plymouth, Devon PL8 2BL Tel: 01752 402623

no environment too tough

L200 Range: £13,679 to £28,974 plus VAT2 with Interest Free Finance1 Finance plans are subject to status through Finance Mitsubishi, 116 Cockfosters Rd, Barnet, EN4 0DY and are subject to status to customers aged 18 years and over.

Finance Mitsubishi is part of Lloyds TSB Asset Finance.

1. Interest Free Finance offer requires a 50% deposit, other offers are available – ask for details. Indemnities may be required.

2. List prices shown include VAT (at 20%), exclude VED and First Registration Fee. Metallic paint extra. £13,679 (VAT inclusive price £16,414.80) for an L200 Single Cab 2.5 DI-D 4Work and £28,974 (VAT inclusive price £34,768.80) for an L200 Double Cab 2.5 DI-D Walkinshaw. Model shown is an L200 Double Cab 2.5 DI-D Barbarian at £22,299 (VAT inclusive price £26,758.80). Offer is only applicable in the UK (excludes NI, Channel Islands & I.O.M), subject to availability, whilst stocks last and may be amended or withdrawn at any time. Offer available between 1st October and 31st December 2011. Specification varies by model.

| Motors

SAAB know how: A change for the better with winter tyres With winter approaching, it’s the ideal time to be thinking about switching to a set of winter tyres.

eing Swedish, Saab knows a thing or two about winter driving, and because you can’t always trust the weather, you need to trust your tyres.

Tyres are the only part of a car in contact with the road surface, making it vital that they are suitable for the road conditions. With winter approaching, it’s the ideal time to be thinking about switching to a set of winter tyres.

B

Ashburton Motor Works Devon 01364 652302 www.devon-isuzu.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Saab is offering alloy wheels and winter tyre packages from only £559 including VAT*.

Customers interested in this package should contact their local Saab dealership for more information including fitting charges and tyre storage options.

David Leighton, Business Development Manager for Aftersales at Saab GB, comments: “The average

Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire 0116 259 2224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

temperature across the country between November and March is less than 7 degrees celsius.

“At such a low temperature, winter tyres are more effective at providing higher levels of safety than standard tyres and offer increased traction on the road.

As a result, they reduce braking distances and suffer less wear and tear, thus offering not only peace of mind, but a cost-saving benefit too.”

Contrary to popular belief, winter tyres are not just suited to driving in snow. The specially designed tread patterns on winter tyres can cope with conditions such as cold, rain, ice and slush, as the compound heats up at a lower temperature, giving more grip than standard ‘summer’ tyres, which become harder in cold conditions.

Saab dealerships are also preparing for the winter by stocking a range of innovative and unique products from AutoSock to help motorists deal

Hyltons Shrewsbury 01743 450450 www.hyltons.co.uk

with driving in snowy conditions.

Developed by scientists working with the Norwegian Ski team, AutoSock Snow Socks are durable textile socks that fit over the driving wheels of a car to wick away water found between the ground and the tyres to offer a strong grip on the surface.

David adds: “At Saab, we understand how difficult it can be to drive in the snow, which is why our dealerships are also stocking snow socks as an alternative to snow chains or winter tyres.”

Available this October from Saab dealerships, the lightweight, reusable socks are ideal for storing in the car and are easily fitted to the driving wheels. Prices start from £54.95 including VAT. For further information about winter tyre provision from Saab and to locate your nearest dealership, please visit www.saab.co.uk. *Available at participating Saab dealers only

Hammonds Of Halesworth Suffolk 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk

Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear 0191 257 3309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 75

FROM £20,185‡ TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH.

Armstrong Massey Land Rover, York

Colliers Land Rover, Erdington

01937 531531 www.armstrongmassey.landrover.co.uk

08430 224354 www.colliers.landrover.co.uk

Barretts Land Rover, Ashford

Copley Land Rover, Halifax

01233 506070 www.barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

01422 363340 www.copley.landrover.co.uk

Barretts Land Rover, Canterbury

Droitwich Land Rover, Worcestershire

01227 475475 www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

01905 797777 www.droitwich.landrover.co.uk

Chipperfield Land Rover, Hertfordshire

Guy Salmon Land Rover, Gatwick

01923 263030 www.chipperfield.landrover.co.uk

01293 531222 www.guysalmonlandrovergatwick.co.uk

†On combined cycle. *Compared to previous models. ‡£20,185 is the manufacturer’s RRP. Refers to Defender 90 Pick-Up. Drive responsibly on and off-road.

EXPLORE OUR LATEST RANGE. Over 60 years ago, Land Rover created a new class of vehicle. And as our latest range shows, the pace of evolution never stops. The new 2011 Freelander 2 is faster-accelerating and more economical than ever,* offering up to 47.1mpg.† There’s a new 4.4 TDV8 engine with an 8-speed transmission for the Range Rover, and host of detail improvements across the range, from Defender to the Range Rover Sport. The range starts at £20,185.‡ Where it goes is up to you.

Call us today to book a test drive.

Guy Salmon Land Rover, Knutsford

Kentdale Land Rover, Kendal

01565 682289 www.guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

01539 814444 www.kentdale.landrover.co.uk

Hartwell Land Rover, Oxford

Lancaster Land Rover, Reading

0870 9049150 www.hartwell.oxford.landrover.co.uk

01189 658400 www.lancaster.reading.landrover.co.uk

Hunters Land Rover, Derby

Rocar Moores Land Rover, Huddersfield

01332 545000 www.hunters.derby.landrover.co.uk

01484 516016 www.rocarmoores.landrover.co.uk

Hunters Land Rover, Norwich

Shukers Land Rover, Ludlow

01603 788887 www.hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

01584 877231 www.shukers.ludlow.landrover.co.uk

RANGE OF FUEL ECONOMY FIGURES FOR THE LAND ROVER RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 12.5 (22.6) – 39.8 (7.1) EXTRA URBAN 26.3 (10.7) – 53.3 (5.3) COMBINED 19.0 (14.9) – 47.1 (6.0) CO2 EMISSIONS 348 – 158 G/KM.

| Motors

SsangYong Korando launches in UK with 5 year Korando sets a new benchmark of affordability in the compact crossover segment. sangYong is backing the launch of its new Korando into the rapidly growing crossover market with an industry leading 5 year limitless mileage warranty. “This warranty is designed to be totally transparent and give our customers complete peace of mind,� says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “With SsangYong, ‘limitless’ means just that: not the 60,000 maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.�

All the major mechanical components on the car are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor

S

driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

Furthermore, the warranty applies to the car not the purchaser, so providing the service record is maintained it can be transferred no matter how many times the vehicle is sold within that five year period.

It also includes all SsangYong approved accessories fitted by a SsangYong dealer, such as tow bars. “We believe that the

Korando’s low purchase price from just £16,995, great build quality, high specification and now a watertight warranty will be a compelling combination that anyone looking to purchase a new crossover will find difficult to ignore. We have complete confidence in this new product and believe this warranty demonstrates that clearly to our customers,� added Mr Williams.

The 5 year limitless

warranty will also apply to the 2012 specification SsangYong Rexton off roader and Rodius MPV. SsangYong UK model line-up Korando - Designed for Europe in Europe by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Ital Design, the new SsangYong Korando offers a highly contemporary look.

Powered by a Euro 5 2.0 litre diesel engine delivering excellent fuel economy and impressive 157g/km CO2 emissions, this brand new 175PS diesel engine makes Korando one of the most powerful in its class. With the choice of two wheel drive or four wheel drive and a full two tonne towing capacity, Korando offers the practicality of a 4x4/SUV, the accessibility of a family hatchback, and

KORANDO Smart decision FROM ONLY

ÂŁ16,995 M HOWROO IN OUR S !

NOW

SCAN ME!

The Smarter 4x4 :LWK SRZHUIXO HI´FLHQW HQJLQHV WZR ZKHHO GULYH RU [ JHQHURXV HTXLSPHQW DQG JUHDW UH´QHPHQW WKH DIIRUGDEOH .RUDQGR UHSUHVHQWV RXWVWDQGLQJ YDOXH

To arrange a test drive call Platts now on:

01782 599 600

Lightwood Road, Longton, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire ST3 4JG

www.plattsgarage.com/ssangyong

78 | Farming Monthly | October 2011

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

limitless mileage warranty comprehensive specification will pitch the all new Korando against competitors from brands such as Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi and Nissan.

There will be five models from launch, with the option of 6 speed manual, 6 speed automatic and a choice of trim levels - S, ES and EX. With its comprehensive warranty and low running costs, the Korando will also set a new

benchmark of affordability in the rapidly growing compact crossover segment.

Prices start from ÂŁ16,995.

the capability to go from muddy campsite to urban school run.

SsangYong’s hallmark competitive pricing and

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2011 | Farming Monthly | 79

Remove Winter Dirt with the Cleaning Power of Hot Water Kärcher’s HDS hot water high-pressure cleaners offer incredible dirt shifting performance, and clean more quickly and thoroughly than cold water machines. Our comprehensive range features the right machine for your cleaning jobs, with features designed to save you time and money. With the UK’s largest network of independent dealers, you’re never far from expert help and advice.

To find out how Kärcher can make a difference call 01295 752 142, email hds@karcher.co.uk or visit www.karcher.co.uk quoting FMOct *available on new middle and super class machines.