October 2012 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2012

Inside this issue...

Sheep & Lambing Ectoparasite control

UK Grain A look ahead to the 7th November event

Livestock Following up on last month’s event

Animal Health Pfizer Animal Health introduce new era E.coli vaccine for poultry Also Inside: Buildings | Education | Energy | Machinery | On Topic | Fencing | ATVs | Motors

Contents

14

50

October 2012

46 78

Features

Regulars

13 17 32 35 42 44 46 50

06 14 23 26 64 68

Security Security & crime prevention

Grain UK Grain Event

Buildings Agricultural buildings news

Livestock Livestock and show roundup

Fencing Fencing industry news

Diet Feeders Latest machinery

Sheep & Lambing Sheep and Lambing roundup

News All the latest need to know commentary

On Topic Farming and Countryside Education

Education Eductaion and training news

Energy What’s new in the energy sector?

ATV The essential workhorse round-up.

Motors What’s new on the road?

NEXT MONTH Farm Finance

Animal Health Latest news and developments We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or agriculture in general? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2012.

Connect with us:

Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Edward Hickinbottom e.hickinbottom@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production Team Andrew Poulton studio@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: 02476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

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Winner of the Skout Infra Red Camera was: Mr G. Woof, Cumbria....T-shirt winner was: S.Tylor, Oxfordshire - congratulations to both.

| News

Welsh farmers prepare for another tv battle S4C’s reality farming format Fferm Ffactor returns to the screen this month for its fourth series with another set of ten fresh-faced farmers prepared to battle for the coveted title and a brand new 4x4 pick-up worth almost £20k. ince 2009, a total of 40 farmers from all over Wales have taken on the Fferm Ffactor challenge, but only one in each series will survive the series of tasks to claim the Fferm Ffactor title.

In order to succeed the farmers must demonstrate an array of traditional farming skills as well as a flair for business and entrepreneurship that’s needed to run a modern-day farm.

The show’s judges, Prof Wynne Jones and farmer Aled Rees decide who stays and who leaves over a period of eight weeks, based on their performance in the wide variety of tasks throughout the series.

"Our job is to test the competitors in all sorts of areas reflecting the diversity of agriculture in Wales,’ said Prof Wynne Jones, the former Head of one of the UK’s leading agricultural colleges, Harper Adams University.

"It's not an easy competition and I always think the winner fully deserves the prize."

Isuzu UK have been the series’ main sponsors since 2009, and are pleased to offer a brand new Isuzu D-Max Yukon 4x4 pick up as the main prize again this year. In the twist to the format this year, the winner of the show’s very first task held at the Royal Welsh Show in the summer walked away with a brand new Honda ATV kindly donated by four Honda Welsh Honda dealers.

Welsh dealerships David Jones Newtown,

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06 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

S4C - Fferm Ffactor 2012 - Gethin, Rhodri, Wyn, Dilwyn, Robin, Anna, Eilir,

Daltons ATV (Lampeter), Ride on Mower & Co (Pwllheli) and Smithfield Tractors (Builth Wells) all joined forces to present the TRX420FA ATV farm bike worth £7,800 to the winner of the opening task, due to be revealed in the first episode broadcasted on October 3, 2012.

The format was originally produced by Ireland's Good Company Productions for local network TG4. Welsh producers Cwmni Da adapted the show into a BAFTA-nominated series for Welsh-language broadcaster S4C and now producers in six European territories

Geraint, Carwyn & Caryl

have optioned rights for local versions of Farm Factor.

Fferm Ffactor Facts: Wednesday 3 October 8.25pm, S4C Also, Friday 5 October 10.30pm, S4C English subtitles Website: s4c.co.uk On demand: s4c.co.uk/clic A Cwmni Da production for S4C

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| News

Rural Payments Agency introduce new processes RPA streamlines service for customers making changes to their businesses. he Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is introducing a clearer, faster process for farmers wanting to change their business structure details.

RPA has pledged to turn around any changes to business structure details within five working days by introducing a

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dedicated team and a new process. This comes in advance of proposed Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms which could see many farmers reviewing their business structures.

In line with the promises made in RPA’s Five Year Plan, the new process will set out clear

deadlines and provide consistent, proficient results for farmers, landowners and agents.

Customer Director Justin Chamberlain said: “A dedicated Customer Registration team and a new process will speed up the service for our customers significantly.

We will review and alert farmers

to what is missing from their business structure request so that, once they have provided all the details, we can swiftly action the change. We are encouraging our customers to provide us with the correct information from the start, just as you might expect when applying for a passport or bank account.”

Farmers stand firm behind TB badger cull Farmers are standing firm behind the government’s TB eradication policy, which will include pilot badger culls, despite increased intimidation and harassment from animal rights activists. he NFU has confirmed that no-one has pulled out of the trial area in Gloucestershire and is writing to all newspapers that have carried the story to set the record straight.

NFU President Peter Kendall said: “I want to get one thing clear for those who think the tactics of harassment and intimidation from animal rights activists are winning the day on the serious issue of how we deal with TB in this country.

“Farmers remain committed to helping government deliver on its TB eradication programme that will reduce TB in both cattle and badgers.

“No-one wants to cull badgers but we simply can’t go on while TB increases its vice-like grip on our family farms. In 1998 less than 6,000 cows were culled because they had TB, in 2011 it was more than 34,000. And every single one of those cows was culled to prevent them passing the disease on. It’s a fact that TB exists

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in wildlife and no amount of culling of cattle will ever control this disease while there are still badgers spreading it further.”

The proposed cull pilots due to take place this autumn are targeting two specific hotspot areas where the incidence of TB in wildlife is persistent and high in the South West, with the possibility of further culls in other hotspot areas in the coming years. Most of England is TB free and there are no plans to carry out culls of badgers in areas where there is no TB. The Government’s TB eradication programme also includes vaccination which is being used as part of the package of measures to control the spread of TB. But it is not an option in those hotspot areas because vaccine alone cannot cure an infected animal. And the practicalities mean that it is highly unlikely that enough badgers would be trapped and injected to have any impact on the disease in either cattle or badgers.

“I have two messages”, said Mr Kendall. “To

the animal rights protestors who are intent on intimidating and harassing people who are simply trying to run their businesses and look after their families I would say your tactics are not working. Your campaign is based on misinformation, scaremongering and bullying with no scientific basis.

“And to the general public, I say look at the science yourself before making up your mind. Find out for yourself the impact that TB is having on the welfare of British cattle and ask which other countries have managed to get on top of TB without controlling wildlife.

“For those in any doubt, this policy has been through two rigorous public consultations. It has also been upheld after challenges in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal. The policy is backed by scientists, vets and government who all agree that this is the best way of controlling the spread of this awful disease throughout the country.”

Single Farm Payment Rate Fixed for 2012 Bidwells Agribusiness is a leading provider of consultancy and management services to the food, farming, bio-energy and agri-investment sectors – all areas of significant growth and change. he Euro exchange rate at which the Single Farm Payment will be calculated has been fixed for 2012 at £0.79805. This is a 7.92% decrease from the £0.8665 set for 2011. As can be seen in the graph below, and as borne out by the relentless bad news from the southern part of the euro zone, the euro has been under pressure for much of the intervening period.

The rate peaked back in the autumn of 2011, and reached a 12 month low at £0.77835 on July 20th. A recent rebound in response to the ECB support for Spain saw the rate back over £0.80 on September 14th.

While the rate remains well above that pertaining in the middle of the last decade, and is arguably better than many feared when the euro seemed to be under unstoppable market pressure

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during the summer, the rate will result a significant drop in farm income in a year which has seen much of British agriculture battered by the weather. Wheat yields and quality have been hit by the lack of sunshine; potato growers are struggling with poor yields and low tuber numbers; salad and vegetable growers have seen sharply reduced production.

While some headline prices have responded sharply, both to local and global supply concerns, not all of these reach the farmer, and even they are often inadequate to cover both the shortfall in output and the penalties applied for quality failure. In addition to the impact on the single farm payment value due to the declining value of the euro, modulation in England is expected to increase, putting further downward pressure on incomes.

Our estimate of the regional average payment for 2012 is around £ 208/ha, assuming that modulation remains at 19%. The completion of the move from a hybrid of historic and regional

payments in 2012 to regional payments alone, will result in different changes in actual payments received business by business, but the euro decline will dominate.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

Building a solid reputation: L&S ECOblock Waste management company’s ready mixed concrete division produces versatile temporary building solution. &S Waste Management has been one of the leading independent waste management companies in Southern England for over 20 years, with over 30 dedicated waste collection vehicles throughout Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Wiltshire and Dorset.

We collect, treat and recycle waste along with providing earthmoving services, skip and roll-on-off containers, a full range of recycled aggregates and ready mixed concrete.

It is through our ready mixed concrete division that we have diversified and now produce the L&S ECOblock. This is a multipurpose interlocking concrete block for all your permanent or temporary storage, segregation and barrier requirements.

The L&S ECOblock is ideal for creating temporary road blocks, protecting vacant sites from unwanted visitors, preventing fly tipping and site security. The system can also be used for constructing silage clamps or storage bays of various sizes.

The L&S ECOblock has excellent environmental credentials that make it a stand out solution, not only is it produced using 100% recycled aggregate, you have zero groundwork’s to carry out. You can reuse them time and time again as they can be re-sited easily. You can earmark them for other uses instead of having to dispose of them. They also

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08 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

take much less time and manpower to construct and reduce movements and risk on site.

The units come in a range of sizes from the standard 1500mm x 600mm x 600mm unit, a 900mm x 600mm x 600mmm unit and a 600mm x 600mm x 600mm unit. This provides a system with the flexibility to construct an array of structures.

We pride ourselves in our industry knowledge and experience, and our

commitment to providing quality services. This is backed up by our customer service centre based at our head office in Fareham. We have a dedicated team who are committed to providing you with the best service around.

If you would like to know more about the L&S ECOblock system or any other products please contact us on 0800 783 4653 to discuss your requirements or visit our website at www.lsconcrete.co.uk.

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| News

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 09

| News

Farmers to help tackle Rodenticides plea winter weather Ice and snow shouldn’t be such a problem this year. n army of farmers have been signed up to plough and grit roads during severe weather this winter.

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The sight of tractors tackling snow covered roads has become a common and welcome one throughout the UK, as councils enlist the support of farmers for winter operations.

In Surrey alone, 51 have been recruited to support the county council’s fleet of gritting lorries in

the fight against ice and snow this winter. The local authority will also be using a quad bike and all terrain vehicle.

They will be able to draw upon 16,000 tonnes of salt stored at depots across the county, which will be replenished during the winter.

John Furey, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, said: “We’ll be working around the clock to keep Surrey moving during ice and snow this winter.

Our gritters can’t treat every road in Surrey which is why the support of farmers is so important.

“They are an asset to our team and they’ll be focusing on keeping disruption caused by ice and snow in rural areas to a minimum.”

Gritters equipped with GPS trackers, thermal mapping of salting routes and smart grit bins are all part of Surrey County Council’s winter plans.

10 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

Farmers’ Union of Wales’ land use and parliamentary committee chairman Gavin Williams has urged farmers to consider their on-farm rat control measures. ighlighting the work of the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU), the FUW advised farmers to evaluate their rodenticide use before livestock housing and where feed stores are already full with high value grain and forage.

“We urge farmers to be on the lookout for an early influx of rats caused by recent heavy rain and follow the instructions on the rodenticides to ensure a bestpractice and effective approach,” said Mr Williams.

CRRU recommend the development of a site map on which all bait points are marked.

This is important for monitoring treatments and helps demonstrate good practice.

“It is important to use sufficient baiting points and also ensure that bait is removed at the end of treatment,” added Mr Williams.

The Health and Safety Executive are currently consulting on the use of anticoagulant rodenticides and it is vital to

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ensure that these chemicals remain available to the industry through the adoption of best practise techniques.

The CRRU have developed a code of practice which advises farmers to: • Use a planned approach, keeping a record of actions, locations and dates.

• Use enough baiting points and mark each one on a site plan.

• Record quantity of bait at each location, including top ups.

• Collect and dispose of rodent bodies regularly.

• Ensure bait is not accessible to non-target species (including pets and children).

• Inspect every bait location regularly and replenish accordingly.

• Remove all bait from every location at the end of the treatment period.

More details of the seven-point CRRU code of practice are listed on the CRRU website (www.thinkwildlife.org.uk)

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Want to be the ice cream of the crop?

Machinery World to offer free consultations to those wanting to enter the Ice Cream Industry. achinery World, experts in sourcing and selling new and used dairy processing and ice cream machinery, has announced that it will offer, with immediate effect, free consultations and advise to milk farmers who are looking to expand operations and enter the world of ice cream manufacturing.

The new service is a result of the continuing ‘milk wars’ between supermarkets, milk agents and dairy farmers which, in some circumstances, has seen farmers almost forced to accept a price per litre that didn’t cover the cost of general production and, certainly didn’t take into account the rising cost of feed, pesticides and other welfare necessities.

The clearly unsustainable, almost artificial business model has given some producers no other choice but to seek alternative, or additional, means of income and the potential profitability of the ice cream manufacturing industry has already been identified as an attractive prospect by many of these.

Paul Crowter, managing director of Machinery World, commented: “The supermarkets have pushed and pushed milk farmers over the years and it’s reached a point where there is only minimal profit to be made.

For the hours and investment it takes to run a successful milk farm, despite many doing it for the love of the job, there has to be a financial gain at the end of the day.

“Moving or expanding operations during an already financially uncertain time is scary enough but, if the industry knowledge isn’t there then it’s just plain frightening and could put people off the idea all together. We’ve been in the industry for many years now and feel our knowledge and experience can help others and give them the confidence make the initial steps into the ice cream industry – or at the very least

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give them the information required to make an educated decision whether the move is for them or not.

“Over the years we’ve helped many people set-up in the industry; some from milk farming backgrounds and others with no dairy experience at all but, each and every one of them now has their own enterprise, with several making a lot of profit and others, even more.”

The free consultations will provide an unique insight into the industry, revealing a lot that’s only really visible to those already working in it and will cover everything from beginning to end, including initial discussions about end goals and targets, defining a niche, recipe discovery, packaging, transport, marketing, expected profit, and of course the machinery required to make it a successful and worthwhile transition.

Paul continued: “We want to help as much as we can and give a real life insight in to workings of the industry. It’s a great industry full of fantastic people but that doesn’t mean to say it’s for everyone. We’ll provide support from inception to success and everything in between. We’ll even set-up a fully-working production line so those considering making the switch can see what is involved, learn, and then make a decision from there.”

Machinery World was established in 1999 with the primary aim of providing the dairy industry with access to expertly sourced and competitively priced secondhand dairy machinery of the highest quality. Today, with over ten years experience within the industry, Machinery World has bought and sold machines in over 90 countries worldwide and has built an extremely valid reputation as a respected and professional outfit.

Furthermore, contrary to a common misconception, buying secondhand machinery

doesn’t mean that the standard of equipment is any less than that of a new machine. At Machinery World, every machine is meticulously tested and cleaned and, should any parts need replacing, then they are done so before the machine is re-sold.

Another huge advantage is the price with it not being an uncommon occurrence for machines to sell for half the price of the new equivalent.

However, if it’s new machinery that’s sought after, Machinery World can also easily fulfil the requirement. It has long acted as the sole UK agent for a number of globally renowned manufacturers including Cattabriga, Promag and the industry’s premium brand, ROKK-Processing.

“We can’t of course guarantee success but we can certainly increase the chances of it by offering guidance on every aspect of operating within the sector.” Added Paul “With the primary ingredient on their door step, ice cream production could be seen as an almost natural progression for milk farmers, and it could be the progression that offers a fresh start and ultimately, the opportunity to change their fortunes for years to come.”

To find out more about the new free consultancy service or, to book a meeting, please call 01455 220 179 or email consultancy@machineryworld.co.uk

Right business models key to success of agricultural sector Farmers need to be made clearer on their business model according to the key note speaker at the recent ICAEW Farming and Rural Business Group Conference. hristine Tacon, commentator on the farming industry, predicted that being both niche and efficient will help secure the future of the agricultural sector in the UK. Ms Tacon, a board executive in the agricultural and food sector and chair of the BBC Rural Affairs Advisory Committee, spoke to delegates about the challenges facing farming and agriculture and how the ‘perfect storm’ of an increasing population, changing diets and loss of land is impacting on the home market. Other recommendations for businesses to ensure longevity included diversification and ensuring successors are trained for the future.

The conference, which took place at Harewood House in Leeds, also covered how the CAP reform will support active farmer’s income as well as recent tax issues affecting

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the sector.

Robert Wharton, Chairman, ICAEW Farming and Rural Business Group, said: “Helping farmers understand both the negatives and positives of certain business models is a key role for accountants involved in the sector. The various reforms taking place provide the chance for farmers to help understand both the risks but also the possible opportunities, such as diversification. The accountant should be an integral part of any agricultural business and a sounding board on a number of areas.”

The Farming and Rural Business Group is a group of ICAEW Chartered Accountants who work in and with rural companies.

For further information about the Farming and Rural Business Group contact: http://www.icaew.com/en

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 11

| News

Back load LimeX now to secure your needs!

Strong demand means limited availability - so act now. he opportunity to make savings on the cost of liming and macronutrients is available now so secure your needs by taking advantage of back loading.

LimeX70 from Bury, Newark and Wissington Sugar Factories is available throughout the sugar beet processing season. There is also limited availability on LimeX45 for back loading from Cantley whilst stocks last.

Following another summer sell out, early autumn indications show strong demand as customers collect for immediate application, or take later in the season into store for 2013 spring and summer use.

The British Survey of Fertiliser Practice shows that lime applications still remain significantly lower than they were a decade ago in both grassland and arable farming systems. The correct pH is a fundamental requirement for crop yield, and the consequential yield loss from suboptimal pH can be catastrophic.

Given the extremely wet spring and early summer farmers plan your liming needs before you see

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Minimum pH

acidity compromising crop growth and potential!

LimeX is available to all farmers, and our soil sampling services include detailed field pH mapping with liming recommendations via FACTS qualified advisors for conventional and organic farming systems. We offer flexible delivery and application packages directly to our customers. Alternatively LimeX is available via our network of regional distributors.

Minimum soil pH by crop type on mineral soil

Furthermore, LimeX contains a valuable integral nutrient package; and a pH maintenance application of LimeX70 at 5/tha (2t/ac) provides a minimum of: 50kg/ha P2O5 : At P Index 2 this is sufficient maintenance phosphate for most cereals, winter oilseed rape, sugar beet, maize and some grassland situations.

35kg/ha MgO : At Mg Index 1 this adds valuable maintenance magnesium and will assist cereals,

oilseed rape and grassland.

60kg/ha SO3 : Usually 25-40kg SO3/ha is sufficient to correct sulphur deficiency in cereals, oilseed rape, field brassicas and grassland.

This package is typically worth ÂŁ75 per hectare.

For more information, visit limex.co.uk. Alternatively contact us on 0870 240 2314.

Next Auctions on 8th October 2012 & 12th November 2012 commencing at 10.30am

12 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

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| Security

Don’t lose it...track it!

Subscription free solution to help keep tabs on your vehicles and farming equipment. iso Electronics provides a subscription free GPS vehicle tracking system “Track–As-You-Go”. Just wire it in for power, top up the pay as you go SIM card that's in the box and register the unit for free on www.tisogps.com, its as simple as that.

Tiso began developing its tracking system in 1997, it was primarily aimed at fleet vehicle, since then we have seen an increase in the theft of both commercial vehicles and farming equipment. The main use for our system has changed over that time from monitoring employees movements to preventing vehicle theft and in recovering stolen vehicles.

We believe we are unique in our approach to tracking in that we design and manufacture the product in our factory in the UK and all of the website and software is written and supported by our staff in Cheshire.

Using state of the art GSM and GPS technology our system is able to provide you with real time information about the location of

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your vehicle. The device has a precision movement detector on board that will notify you by text message when your plant or machinery moves. This can add valuable seconds needed if someone tries to take your vehicle.

Our device is small measuring 85mm x 57mm x 26mm. It is easy to hide out of sight in the vehicle making it difficult to find. If the vehicle battery is disconnected the device has an internal battery that will keep working for 4 days in sleep mode or 8 hours of live tracking.

We have many major vehicle operators such as National Express using the system for realtime monitoring and sms notifications throughout the UK and Europe.

If your farm machinery is invaluable to you then the Tiso tracker is too.

Call Craig on 0161 368 0388 to find out more information.

5 top security tips Rural police officer provides good advice. farmer's property is spread over many acres with stock and equipment often portable and easy to steal. Most farms are easy to get to, making total security impossible - but a lot can still be done to reduce the risks: Grazing animals are an easy target for thieves. Regularly check fields where animals are grazing.

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Security tips:

1 2 3 4

Keep your hedges, fences and gates in good repair. Ditches form a natural barrier. Fit field gates with capping hinges so they cannot be removed easily.

5

Take photographs of particularly valuable animals.

Cattle grids should be removable and locking posts, to obstruct large openings to yards, used.

Consider using CCTV allowing animals to be watched in barns or yards from the comfort of your home. This can be useful during busy times like lambing season.

If livestock is stolen, it's important you give police an accurate description. Eartags help police to identify stock.

Freeze-branding, hot-branding or tattooing with your postcode can also help.

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 13

| On Topic

On Topic

Agriculture...

Can you, as a proud and hard-working farmer, do your part to help avert the looming agricultural ‘brain drain’?

Farming and countryside education

We have over 80 partner membership organisations. All have a commitment to educational work associated with food, farming and the countryside. We are always keen to recruit more members, from any part of the sector, who share our aims and objectives and would like to work in partnership. For more information about how to join FACE please go to the "Membership" section on this website.

There is widespread concern about the way children, young people, and their families, have become disassociated from where their food comes from and do not know what is required for a healthy diet and lifestyle. They are also unaware of the many opportunities in the countryside for leisure and social activities, and for employment.

FACE aims to meet these educational needs by working with our members and partners to promote visits to farms, and to provide easy access to a wide range of high-quality educational resources and activities to complement both school-based studies and outdoor visits.

Our work with schools and young people is highly successful because of the immediate and widespread benefits of visits to the outdoors, and of using food, farming and the countryside to support many aspects of the curriculum. For more information visit www.face-online.org.uk

14 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

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| On Topic

t is estimated that within the next 10 years agriculture will need to attract over 60,000 new workers into the industry. In addition, food production will need to grow to accommodate an ever increasing global population resulting in greater demand for labour. During a time where employment insecurity seems to be at an all time high, attracting recruits into the industry should not be a problem. Farming is not an easy job; it requires an eclectic mix of intelligence, skill and passion. Therefore, attracting the best and brightest youngsters to fill these roles is pivotal.

Does agriculture have the capabilities to attract future employees who possess the ability to deliver high standards and move the industry forward?

A recent NFU survey of the industry’s workforce found that the average age of farm workers is 46 and the average age of a farm manager is 49, by far one of the oldest workforces within the UK. Marry this with another survey which demonstrates how school pupils perceive a role in agriculture as one of the least desirable career paths and you will understand the immense effort which is needed in order to turn this negative perception around, and attract bright entrants.

Up to now the industry has had success when obtaining entrants who already have links to agriculture. However this may be where the problem stems from: is the industry too insular and inward looking? Is it time to stop preaching to the converted, and instead should the industry start spreading its circle of influence towards those who may need more convincing?

It is not all bad news. Results from the government’s first ever National Well-being survey, published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), showed that people who worked in farming were among the happiest workers in the country. So why does farming have such a bad perception amongst young people? Well, it all boils down to one thing…a lack of relevant education.

Today, teachers and careers advisors do not possess the knowledge or expertise to educate children about the numerous and diverse agricultural career paths. It is a sad fact that many young people still see farming as predominantly manual labour work. Children

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are not being taught about the more skilled roles within the industry such as those involving science, business and engineering.

Consequently, the industry must play its part in ensuring a bright future for all forms of farming.

In July, Farming & Countryside Education’s regional coordinator Brian Hainsworth attended a local Big Bang Fair. These fairs provide an opportunity for secondary school pupils to catch a glimpse of the varying engineering roles available in differing industries. After witnessing presentations from the likes of aeronautical, automotive and armed service industries, the overwhelming reaction when Brian presented the industry of poultry farming was that of confusion. What is a farmer doing at an engineering fair? Surely this is an oldfashioned perception of the industry which we need to strive to change.

Brian provided a drop-in zone to encourage young people, the majority of whom had no agricultural background, to learn about the engineering opportunities within poultry farming. The designated agricultural area was illustrated with some of the industry’s most advanced technology. Many of the pupils were amazed by the highly technical equipment and the level of skill and intelligence which goes into designing and manufacturing these machines. The outcome of the day was that the 600 pupils who attended left with an understanding that agriculture is a possible engineering career path for them.

Unfortunately, examples of the industry pushing its circle of influence towards those not involved in agriculture are limited. There are many ways in which farmers can share their knowledge, educating tomorrow’s generation about different roles within the industry. The extent of what action taken can vary; from hosting one farm visit a year to hosting one a week, to going into a school and delivering a presentation. Farming & Countryside Education (FACE) are committed to helping children and young people to learn about food, farming and the countryside, through hands-on learning activities and visits. However you choose to contribute, FACE can provide you with guidance and support.

Visit the FACE website for more details: http://face-online.org.uk/ Or email: Jonathan@face-online.org.uk

On Topic

...the secret career choice

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 15

| On Topic

Farmstar Limited - Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786 Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk Sharnford Ltd -Monthly Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH 16Tractors | Farming | October 2012 T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

Anker of Coates - Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777 Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk Ravenhill - Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

Grow your business at UK Grain THE event for comprehensive coverage in grain handling, drying, storage and marketing. he 2012 UK Grain event will allow visitors to consider post-harvest technology and the challenge of grain marketing in a difficult season. The event, being held at the Peterborough Arena on Wednesday 7th November, combines free independent advice at topical, informative clinics and seminars alongside an exhibition of the latest equipment for grain storage and handling.

Against the backdrop of one of the toughest UK harvests in decades and increasing market volatility around the world, UK Grain offers a

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comprehensive look at grain handling, drying, storage and marketing.

“UK Grain is now established as a unique event, which addresses all the issues post-harvest, and really gets to the heart of the grain business,” says Andrew Newbold of event organiser Fusion Events.

“It brings together the best advice and equipment to help farmers ensure they deliver grain at the quality and specification that will secure the best prices.”

UK Grain offers a trade exhibition with some 60 exhibitors involved in every aspect of grain storage, monitoring, drying and marketing. In addition, a seminar programme delivers timely information, and enables

participants to gain CPD points for NRoSO and BASIS. This year’s seminar programme takes two key themes: ‘Managing the un-manageable – growing crops in a changing climate and volatile market’ and ‘Grain chain collaboration – delivery value, trust and transparency for all’.

Jack Watts from HGCA, the Grain Quality Partner for the event, heads up the programme with his market insight. Matthew Read, Chairman of Red Tractor, will address the importance of maintaining crop quality through the food chain and what Red Tractor are doing to

promote this. In addition, two farmers will talk about their decisions to opt for either on-farm or off-farm storage.

Once again, industry experts will host one-to-one sessions in the Grainstorm area, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to consult on issues of concern.

These will include marketing options in a challenging season and the ability to take an independent view on proposed projects.

“Whether farmers are looking to renew, update or adapt their grain handling and storage facilities, UK Grain will provide them with insight,” says Mr Newbold.

UK GRAIN FACTS: Date: Wednesday 7th November 2012 9.00am to 4.00pm Venue: Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground near Peterborough, PE2 6XE Tickets: £10 by pre-booking on-line at www.farm-smart.co.uk/ukgrain or by telephone on 0845 4900 142 otherwise £15 on the day.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Grain

Two alternative drying solutions from Dan-Corn Have you planned your drying requirements for the coming seasons? an-Corn, appreciating the 2012 season has produced difficult conditions for cereals drying and storage, can offer two alternative solutions to overcome this issue for the coming seasons.

For those requiring additional or updated storage as well as drying, Dan-Corn silo stirrer systems are a very cost effective method of drying and storing grain offering a positive, and with their low energy consumption, economical solution to wet or variable harvests. The financial advantages of selecting a silo stirrer

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system are matched by the ease of managing the drying and storage system.

If storage is not an issue Dan-Corn can provide a versatile range of batch and continuous flow grain dryers that, with the exception of the smallest batch dryer, come with their unique heat reclaim system. By utilising a system of internal channels, heat energy recovered from the cooling section normally exhausted to atmosphere is used to pre-heat the drying air saving fuel.

The Dan-Corn dryers are very versatile being

able to operate in static or mobile applications.

With low noise levels and low dust emissions they are clean burning by using L.P.G. modulating burners and incorporate the patented “QUAD METERING” discharge system and the excellent “QUADRATOUCH™” user interface.

Dan-Corn can be seen at UK Grain 2013, stand 73 For further information contact please call Barry Sco 01223 837279/07725 039250 – bsc@dancorn.com or Stuart Tobin 07703 608014 – sjt@dancorn.com.

‘Silo Strings’ added to Barn Owl Wireless Temperature monitoring made easy with Martin Lishman Ltd. artin Lishman Ltd is offering a new feature – silo temperature monitoring – for use with its Barn Owl Wireless remote monitoring and fan control system for management of grain stores and silos.

The new feature uses tried and tested ‘Silo Strings’ which are armoured cables built around a braided-steel core, with a series of sensors located at two or three metre intervals down their length.

These hang from the roof of a silo or large flat store and provide temperature readings for the full depth of grain it contains.

They have been developed in response to demand from major store operators, says Ian ClaytonBailey, Sales Director: “Silo operators say they often struggle to detect and locate ‘hot spots’ if they are deep in a silo, because they are beyond the reach of a sensor at the top of the silo, even if it is driven well into the grain.

“Yet such hot-spots normally indicate a problem like pest infestation or mould growth that

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can rapidly the value of the grain.

Early detection is crucial to prevent the problem developing and becoming more serious and costly to rectify.

Barn Owl Wireless Silo monitoring will provide operators with a regularly updated record of the grain temperature throughout the silo, so emerging ‘hot spots’ can be located and investigated before they develop into a serious or costly issue.

“In a partly filled bin, sensors above the grain level will read the ambient temperature, giving operators a useful ‘quick-check’ – to within a couple of metres - on the level of grain fill in each silo.

“In the first season since its full launch, Barn Owl Wireless is quickly proving its potential to reduce the cost and time taken managing grain stores by enabling operators can monitor and manage store fans remotely, with some customers reporting up to 40% reduction in energy costs.

“This is proving very valuable for farmers with conventional stores, and should be of even greater benefit to those managing

18 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

larger storage facilities and silos, or managing multiple sites”, says Ian. The system works by sending temperature readings from the individual sensors or strings via a radio signal to the Barn Own Gateway unit, located in the roof or on the silo gantry.

From there they are relayed to the Martin Lishman Ltd’s cloudbased Barn Owl Wireless web

server, where it is collated with all previous information from the store, to provide a complete temperature and humidity record throughout the storage period.

Store operators can log into their own Barn Owl Wireless web page to check this information, and make decisions on whether to turn fans on or off, or re-set thresholds at which they are turned on or off automatically.

Quality matters Client satisfaction in all areas is paramount to the Robinson ‘ethos’. obinson Structures specialise in the design, fabrication and construction of agricultural steel frame buildings including grain stores, livestock buildings, hay barns, equestrian facilities and general purpose buildings, as well as industrial units and other bespoke structures. Services and products such as groundworks, roofing, cladding, doors, electrics, gates, barriers, louvres, etc are all available inhouse for a full turnkey service.

Their fabrication facility in the heart of the East Midlands is ideally situated to service the whole of the country, reinforcing their position as one of the country’s leading agricultural building contractors.

Robinson Structures provide an informal approach to their many customers, offering early design and cost advice and can also prepare planning applications. The company ethos revolves around the satisfaction of their clients with a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude.

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Robinson Structures have decades of steel fabrication experience, so customers can guarantee that the product they receive is of the highest quality with long lasting durability.

Robinson Structures will be exhibiting at both the National Fruit Show at the Kent Showground on 17th & 18th October 2012, and at the UK Grain Event at the East of England Showground on 7th November 2012.

For more information please call 01332 574711 or visit www.robinsons.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

Potential for major energy savings with a Svegma Recirculating Drier Very competitively priced when compared to other recirculating driers. ith the ability to recirculate drying and cooling air prior to the burner or other heat source, the new Svegma recirculating drier offers the potential for major energy savings. This was the prime reason for the first specification in the UK of the drier by Tim Piper. It will be used on his 4000 acre mixed farm where winter wheat, winter rape, spring barley, linseed, spring beans, forage maize, and herbage seeds and vining peas are produced as just part of the farm’s activities.

Tim’s purchase of the Svegma recirculating drier further underlines his commitment to an energy saving policy for the farm.

This has also included the installation of 49.8kw of photovoltaic panels in Autumn 2011. Plans are also in hand for the installation of a biomass boiler to provide energy from either, an

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air to air or hot water to air, heat exchanger to give a base load of approx 750kw of heat. This will then be topped up with recirculated heat, with gas providing the rest. “We also direct drill 80% of our crops, saving a huge amount of fuel and man hours as well as sequestering a huge amount of carbon,” adds Tim. The Svegma recirculating drier was found to be very competitively priced compared with other recirculating driers and further savings are made when it is operated to give a good return on the investment. The plan is to use it when necessary, but mainly for the wheat, rape and barley crops.

The energy savings achievable with the drier are down to a number of factors. Firstly, the required amount of air that needs heating from ambient to operating temperature is decreased.

Secondly, the recirculated air needs less heat input to achieve operating temperatures. The result is a calculated energy saving of up to 15% for the user.

The drier can be heated using any technology and/or fuel including standard gas, oil or bio fuel heaters, working either directly or indirectly. Stress on the heater is minimized since it does not need to work at excessively high temperatures. Akron’s RadiClean particle-separating fan technology, with its high particle-separating efficiency, also generates less dust and as there is less chance of particles coming into contact with hot surfaces.

Tim Piper decided to purchase the Svegma drier from BDC Systems because it met his

requirements in terms of energy saving technology. He also knew that the sales and technical backup team at BDC had a good knowledge of the product and the associated machinery needed to accompany it. “BDC gave me the confidence that they would be able to sort out any problems that might arise. I also have a neighbour who has run a Svegma drier for a good many years without any major problems.”

More information is available at www.bdcsystems.com and from BDC Systems Ltd, Prospect Farm, Broad Road, Monxton, Andover, Hampshire, SP1 1 7DA. Tel: +44 (0) 1264 710987, Fax: +44 (0) 1264 710987. Email: info@bdcsystems.com website: www.bdcsystems.com

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Grain

50 years of handling success Visit Guttridge at UK Grain 2012 for expertise and experience in grain conveying solutions.

Stand number 77. t UK Grain 2012 (Exec Exhibitions and Events Centre, East of England Showground, Peterborough on Wednesday 7th November) Guttridge, a leading supplier of bulk materials handling solutions, will exhibit tried and tested equipment for grain conveying applications, accommodating throughputs from 40 to in excess of 600 tph.

Guttridge is now celebrating its 50th year of successfully handling bulk materials and visitors to the stand can tap into a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Guttridge experts will be on hand to discuss all aspects of grain handling and offer advice about individual applications.

Guttridge manufactures the Carier range of solid, durable grain handling equipment for handling 40 to 100 tph. These are complemented by the Guttridge range of conveyors and elevators

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that cover the higher throughputs, up to 600tph. These are of increasing interest in many areas, particularly to companies operating large-scale grain storage facilities. Both the Carier and Guttridge ranges draw on the company’s expertise and their focus on reliable handling solutions that minimise maintenance requirements.

Guttridge also offer a growing and comprehensive service designed to handle and streamline the commissioning, maintenance and breakdown of grain handling equipment. Options range from the supply of emergency spares to system diagnostics focused on improving operating efficiency.

Guttridge are the only supplier of genuine Carier spares.

Find out more by calling at Guttridge stand 77, emailing sales@guttridge.co.uk or visiting www.guttridge.co.uk

20 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

CE the quality of Timmins Long standing company achieves building accreditation. aving been established since 1975, K.W. Timmins Ltd are one of only a handful of agricultural steel framed building manufacturers to have been awarded the coveted CE Mark in the UK. Of course, a CE Mark for all structural steelwork is going to be a mandatory requirement in 2014, raising the level of quality in this sector and providing a level playing field for all manufacturers.

K.W. Timmins Ltd like to be ahead of the game, gaining their CE Mark from Steel Construction Certification Scheme (SCCS) well in advance of this imminent legislation. If you buy a steel framed building with a CE Mark you can be assured that the building is fit for purpose and is manufactured to the highest quality.

Offering a complete agricultural building package 'in house', from planning, structural calculations (using constantly updated software provided by GTS Cadbuild) and frame design (using the latest TEKLA design software), K.W.Timmins Ltd also operate their own fabrication shop making steel

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frames and utilise their own ground-works, steel erecting and cladding teams.

The company have completed numerous projects over the years from 5000 tone grain stores to small building extensions. A large amount of agricultural building repairs are also undertaken along with alteration work including asbestos cladding removal (recladding in modern materials).

For more information call Tel: 01427 788009 or Mob: 07968 322209 or visit www.timminsengineering.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

New WEIGHLOG α10 on-board weighing system for grain handling | Grain

Master Driers range for 2012 Stand 54 at UK Grain. his year Master Driers celebrate their 30th anniversary of supplying the UK Agricultural industry with its highly acclaimed range of mobile grain Driers. From small beginnings back in 1982 supplying a small 5 Ton drier we have grown to become one of the leading Grain Drier suppliers in the UK. Our range today covers models from 12-45 tons incorporating tractor pto drive or electric drive with the option of full automation with Mastermatic control systems. Add to this dust extraction, a three stage burner system and a 450 mm diameter centre auger and you are looking at the very best in mobile grain drying.

So come and see us at stand number 54 at the UK Grain Event in Peterborough and learn more about our range. Also on display will be our brand new moisture meter that can be fitted on to your mobile grain drier.

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Improve your operation. ince its launch earlier this year the WEIGHLOG α10 has been installed on a wide variety of loaders in numerous applications, including telehandlers for grain weighing.

The WEIGHLOG α10 incorporates a 4.3” colour, hi brightness resistive touchscreen display and additional physical keys providing a user-friendly onboard weighing system that can be used for trailer & hopper loading, batch blending or check weighing.

Suitable for use with up to 10 different attachments e.g. buckets or forks, the system can be retrofitted onto compact wheeled loaders, telescopic handlers, forklifts, skidsteer type loaders and tractor loaders.

The system measures hydraulic pressure using up to 4 sensors at a certain position on the lifting cycle compensating for pressure changes in the system.

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This will provide you with the exact moisture of the crop throughout the drying cycle from loading to unloading.

For those who want upgrade your Drier next season come and talk to us about our 2013 model range together with our offers on ‘trade ins’ and financing. For those of you who value pre season Services we are offering some very special deals which can include free fitting of our moisture meter.!

Telephone: Master Driers 01787 228450 or visit: www. Masterfarm.co.uk

Enhanced stores capability comprising 30 products, 30 customers and up to 5 different recipes designed around animal feed mixing, dispensing and grain handling enable accurate record keeping and traceability.

The system provides communication and data storage via SD card reader and USB 2.0 host allowing quick, safe and efficient uploading and downloading of data.

For more information on how RDS can help improve your farming operations - visit www.rdstec.com or call 00 44 (0)1453 733300.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Grain

Optimize grain returns The Kentra HPIII Moisture Sensor saves money and reduces the risk of over drying.

entra Grain Systems Ltd, market leaders in the design and manufacture of high temperature grain dryers, have recently introduced their HPIII Moisture Sensor.

First seen at the UK Grain Event in November 2011, this innovative device, when positioned in the path of the grain flow, will constantly monitor the real-time moisture content of the passing grain. Moisture data is shown on the dryer control panel and a simultaneous log of moisture levels is recorded to provide traceability of drying load parameters.

When asked about the benefits of the HPIII Sensor, Managing Director Barry Higginbottom said “At Kentra we always look at product development from our customers’ perspective. This new

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sensing technology can improve the efficiency of crop drying, removing the chore of frequent manual sampling and saving energy by reducing the risk of over drying. This sensor is an option on all our new machines and in many cases can be retrofitted to existing dryers.”

Kentra have been manufacturing grain dryers for more than 20 years and their products are well proven in the field. Rugged and reliable, their standard modular dryer line-up provides a wide-ranging choice of throughputs from 6 to 60 tonnes/hour to suit any type of crop and all drying operations large or small.

For further information contact Kentra on 01423 330085 or visit www.graindriers.com

HGCA Grain Workshops GCA is offering growers the chance to learn more about the key drivers for the coming season as well as how to assess their business needs.

Eight HGCA Grain Market Workshops will take place from 31 October to 6 February across the country and are split into two sessions. The first entitled Market Outlook and Risk Factors, will give growers a grain and oilseed market outlook as well as a look at the coming season’s key market drivers.

The second part will be a workshop on Price Risk and its Management. This will look at gaining a better understanding of the importance of price risk management, taking the steps to develop a strategy to meet the needs and objectives of the

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22 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

business.

HGCA Sector Director Rebecca Geraghty said: “This half-day event begins with an independent view of the grain and oilseed market outlook to help growers identify the key drivers for the coming season and to give an insight into what to watch for. This will be followed by an interactive group workshop to help farmers learn more about managing volatility to meet their business needs.”

The half-day event is free and takes place in Warwickshire, South West, Borders, Aberdeen, Newmarket, Andover, Newark and York.

Book online at www.hgca.com/events, call 0247 647 8726 or email events@hgca.ahdb.org.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Education

No such thing as a free lunch? Think again!

All expenses paid study tours available through Produce Plus Project. Sign us up! armers are undoubtedly under a lot of pressure these days, with the poor summer weather adding to their woes. But there is some bright, Italian sunshine on the horizon for a few lucky ones, and they won’t even have to pay for it!

The Enterprise and Development Department at Walford and North Shropshire College are leading two allexpenses- paid study tours to Tuscany in 2013, for farmers or people closely associated with farming businesses. Only time and spending money needed, along with an inquisitive mind.

The first group heads off to experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ in June next year and a second in September, with a full programme

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scheduled. They visit a range of farm businesses, most of which specialise in various diversification enterprises. There is strong support in Tuscany for ‘Local area Provenance’, particularly for high quality organic products.

Participants will learn how these businesses operate and the techniques used to add value to their base products.

The groups will discuss the diversification enterprises that have evolved, see how they are running and how effective these are in sustaining core farm business. There will also be the opportunity to learn about the marketing-support organisations and how best to get the products from the farm to the market place.

To make it easy for participants,

First Eden Dairy Technologists graduate Twenty-five dairy technologists have graduated with a brand new Eden Foundation Degree in Dairy Technology. his specialised, world class degree has been developed by the dairy industry, working through Dairy UK, the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink and Reaseheath College. It has been designed to address specific skills shortages, and to enable the UK industry to be at the cutting edge of hi-tech dairy processing and manufacturing.

A £5 million purpose-built dairy training centre was established at Reaseheath College in Nantwich, Cheshire, to ensure that the students receive world class theoretical and practical training.

Dairy UK Director General Jim Begg commented, “The graduation of the first Eden students marks a special day for the dairy industry. These students have worked hard on what was created to be the best dairy course anywhere in the world. They can now play an important part in developing the UK’s highly efficient and globally competitive dairy industry. We congratulate them on their achievement, and hope they will inspire fellow Eden students for years to come”.

The 25 graduates are all employees of Arla Foods, Dairy Crest, First Milk, Milk Link, Muller Dairies and Robert Wiseman

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two members of staff from WNSC and a professional interpreter accompany the group, and basic language and cultural training is given prior to the visits so that everyone can get the most out of the tour.

Accommodation is organised by the host partner Orizzonti Nuovi, and ranges from farm B&Bs, to hotels or self-contained

study apartments. All travel, food and accommodation costs and even some sight- seeing/cultural visits are covered through the Produce Plus Project funded by Leonardo, Lifelong Learning Programme.

Interested? Contact Liz Donald on 01939 262 154 or email l.donald @wnsc.ac.uk

Dairies and throughout their three year degree programme have been applying their knowledge and learnings to improve activities in dairy factories across the UK. Dave Kynaston, Vice Principal of Reaseheath College, said: “The inaugural graduation of Eden Dairy Technologists represents a milestone for the industry. A significant part of their success has been achieved through the partnership between Reaseheath College as the training provider and the major dairy processors. We wish all the graduates continued success within their companies.”

Justine Fosh, Executive Director of the National Skills Academy for Food & Drink, added: “This is an exceptionally important landmark in the future development of the UK dairy industry. We congratulate every single graduate on their hard work and are honoured to have played our part in ensuring businesses now have access to new recruits with exactly the right skills to drive further growth and innovation in an industry transformed by new technology, new processes and increased automation.

“These graduates are the first of the best – with many more to come in future years.”

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Groundcare

Stihl launches its smallest, lightest chainsaw ever When it comes to pruning branches, tending orchards and young trees, and even laying hedges the traditional way; farmers, nursery managers, fruit growers and contract gardeners can now swap their handsaw for the power and speed of a chain saw with the new flyweight model STIHL MS 150 C-E. nother exciting introduction from the world-leading STIHL chain saw brand, the new MS 150 C-E is a lightweight 2.8 kg, and not only STIHL’s lightest model but also believed to be the world’s lightest available rear-handled machine.

Compact and well-balanced as well as extremely lightweight, the new MS 150 C-E is simply a pleasure to use and enables users to work for longer without tiring, increasing its safety and their productivity.

Like any great flyweight it packs a serious punch and with its 1.0kW power output it has easily the best power-to-weight ratio of any chain saw today, making it a serious contender for best in its class.

Perfect for professional pruning Light in weight the new model may be but it is certainly no lightweight when it comes to its task. Combining its power with an especially narrow saw chain means the new STIHL MS 150 C-E chain saw delivers a powerfully clean cut, and so is particularly suited to the pruning of

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branches and to tending young trees.

Gentle on the environment and on the pocket Like all of STIHL’s latest chain saws, the new MS 150 C-E is driven by the advanced STIHL 2MIX engine which is characterised by low exhaust emissions and low fuel consumption. The chain saw is fully compliant with the latest EU Exhaust Emissions Standards, whilst its low fuel consumption and long re-fuelling intervals make it both cost and time-efficient to run.

Nice and easy to use Not only is the new lightweight MS 150 C-E pleasant to handle, it is easy to use right from the start.

A manual fuel primer and the STIHL ErgoStart feature ensure the engine starts simply with a slow, gentle pull on the starter-cord.

Once in use the machine’s excellent balance and low vibrations mean it is really comfortable to work with – making it safer in use. Safety is further promoted by the chain saw’s low kickback tendency, which is the result of a particularly narrow

24 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

tipped guide bar and the special Picco Micro saw chain supplied as standard.

Simple to maintain As ever STIHL has not stopped at making this chain saw nice and easy to use; the worldleading brand has also ensured that everyday maintenance is nice and simple to do too.

Large and easy-to-access fuel and chain oil tank openings allow no-mess filling without any tools.

Chain tensioning is also simple with access to the tensioner via a single nut to release the sprocket cover, and cleaning the air filter is straightforward and tool-free, with the air filter easily accessed via a single piece shroud.

The new MS 150 C-E chain saw is available now with either a 10" or 12" guide bar – priced from £385.00 ex VAT (10" guide bar).

STIHL chain saws and its extensive range of products are available from more than 650 STIHL Approved Dealers nationwide. To find a local Approved Dealer or for more product information visit www.stihl.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Groundcare

Forget conventional chainsaws...

Oregon’s breakthrough cordless chain saw is like nothing you’ve seen before. lount, the world's largest manufacturer of saw chain, announces the launch of the OREGON® CS250 36V Cordless Chain Saw, the world’s only chainsaw with integrated PowerSharp® chain sharpening system. When the chain dulls, it is sharpened by simply pulling the PowerSharp® lever for 3 to 5 seconds. No need to ever cut with a dull chain again.

Oregon chose 36V Lithium Ion batteries as the power source due to the inherent advantages over petrol or corded electric saws; Cordless battery saws can be

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much quieter in-use, feature lower vibration levels and do not emit the fumes that petrol saws do. There is no fuel to mix or to store or to transport around in a vehicle, all important considerations for any user at home or work.

The high-capacity 2.4ah battery in the CS250 and its 14” bar allow it to power through

logs up to 12” diameter, deliver no-fade power throughout the job and cut up to 250 branches on a single charge**.

With high power, instant starting and instant sharpening, it is the only chain saw that is truly “Always Ready”.

Saw Kit Includes: 36V* Chainsaw, 14-in Guide Bar, PowerSharp® Chain, LithiumIon Endurance Battery Pack and Charger – £395inc. VAT For more information visit www.oregoncordless.com or www.oregonchain.co.uk

The CS250 is a unique battery battery-powered -powered chain saw with all the po power wer y you ou need. With an integr ated Po werSharp® s ystem y ou can k eep integrated PowerSharp® system you keep cutting with less do down wn time ffor or sharpening.

Product features •Built-in PowerSharp® precision chain sharpening system •36V* (40 volts maximum) – highcapacity 2.4ah lithium ion battery pack •14-inch bar length •TUV safety certified

PowerSharp® Po werSharp®

With Po PowerSharp® werSharp® y you ou can sharpen on the saw saw,, on the job, in seconds™ ā āŎŎ Sharp in 3 - 5 seconds. ā āŎŎ 10 - 20 grinds per chain. ā orking. āŎŎ No need to stop w working.

OREGON® OREGON® 36V Chain Saw āŎ 36V Lithium ion battery āŎ āŎŎ Integr ā Integrated ated Po PowerSharp® werSharp® āŎŎ Instant start ā āŎŎ Lo ā Low w noise For F or more more in information formation visit OregonCordless.com OregonCordless.com

BLOUNT UK LTD LTD - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - 2012

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OREGON® AND POWERSHARP® ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF BLOUNT, INC IN THE UNITED STA STATES AND / OR OTHER COUNTRIES

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Energy

Antaris show portable off-grid solar PV system The ‘eKiss’ system offers easy to use, portable electricity generation off the beaten track. ntaris Solar, a leading German provider of solar technology, showcased its new standalone, portable off-grid solar PV system, eKiss, at this year’s Solar Power UK, which took place from 2nd to 4th October at the NEC in Birmingham.

Antaris Solar’s presence at Solar Power UK underlines the company’s positive outlook and its commitment to the UK market. At booth B36, visitors could test the eKiss system and have a chat with International Sales Manager, Andrew Moore.

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“As we all know, the PV market is challenging these days and politics is doing a good job in creating obstacles that PV companies have to overcome.”

Despite reduced Feed-in Tariffs (FITs), intense competition and numerous insolvencies Antaris Solar is confident about the future of the British market and determined to increase its market

share. Thanks to efficient corporate structures, a strong balance sheet and a unique partnership model, the company is well positioned to face any potential obstacles. As part of international direct marketing specialist GOEDE Group, Antaris Solar shares resources with its sister companies. This saves costs and provides financial flexibility, which in turn translates into competitive pricing of its products and services.

Antaris Solar products benefit from the highest quality standards combined with maximum reliability and long-lasting performance.

Their 30-year performance warranty and 12-year product warranty are amongst the longest and most reliable warranties available in the solar PV sector.

An international manufacturer and wholesaler, Antaris Solar supplies the whole spectrum of photovoltaic technology. Its newly developed eKiss system and the smaller, briefcase-sized Mini eKiss, offer easy-to-use and flexible stand-alone PV systems for electricity generation and storage in off-grid locations, such as

sheds, stables, outbuildings, camp sites, hunting cabins or holiday homes. The systems are also ideal for governments, charities, individuals, aid agencies and churches wishing to fund electricity generation for families and small businesses in rural areas of the developing world.

Available in four versions covering a power range between 350 and 2,000 Watts, the eKiss system (short for energy – Keep it simple & safe) is easy to install and operate and uses maintenance-free AGM batteries for electricity storage. Depending on the configuration of the system, potential applications include washing machines, refrigerators, telephone systems, televisions, laptops, portable power tools, ebikes, electric golf trolleys and even caravans.

Andrew Moore, Antaris Solar‘s International Sales Manager, said: “As we all know, the PV market is challenging these days and politics is doing a good job in creating obstacles that PV companies have to overcome.

However, Antaris Solar proves that efficient company structures and

international market presence, combined with high quality products, innovation and competitive pricing are the key to success, even when market conditions are challenging. With our expanding partner network throughout the United Kingdom and our expert British distributors, we are confident that Antaris Solar will grow into the leading German PV supplier in the UK.“

Draft EU proposals would devastate UK biofuels industry Industry committed to technological progress, but REA warns speed and scale of proposals likely to destroy, not build on, sector innovations he UK biofuels industry stands to be devastated by draft proposals being developed by the European Commission. If implemented, the proposals would shift the goalposts for the industry so dramatically that millions of pounds of investment could be wasted, including in the most advanced UK businesses. All significant investment in the sector would likely cease and dependency on oil will increase.

Nearly £1 billion has been invested in the UK in the production of sustainable biofuels, but our industry remains small by EU standards.

The biofuels sector is the only fuels sector where mandatory sustainability standards are legally enforceable. Targets set under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) have ensured that Government and industry can robustly differentiate between sustainable and unsustainable biofuels. The UK industry has been particularly innovative in meeting these requirements, achieving average greenhouse gas (GHG) savings

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from UK-produced biofuels of 69% while increasing co-production of animal feeds. The Government’s ‘Bioenergy Strategy’ recognises the role of biofuels in meeting carbon targets over the next 20 years.

Clare Wenner, Head of Renewable Transport at the REA, said: “The UK industry is particularly vulnerable to these proposals because it is small and because investment has been hindered by the lack of clear domestic policy.

The great irony is we have been repeatedly asking for a clear pathway to 2020, not least to secure investment in technological advancement. Nobody listened.

Now Europe is planning a quantum leap which threatens to wipe us out. It is a double whammy and an absolutely galling prospect for companies that have invested millions in good faith.”

Four elements of the EC proposals are highly problematic: Ø The proposal to limit crop biofuels to no more than half the 10% target for renewable transport with immediate effect. Crop-based biofuels are an essential start in

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developing the market for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. Once that market is established then investment in the more complex and costly biofuels made from non-crop feedstocks will come on-stream. It is commercially illogical to expect investors to embrace the more expensive, technologically complex biofuels, and for consumers to pay for these, before a functioning non-fossil fuel liquid fuel market is established. This proposal will entirely derail a workable forward development trajectory for the UK industry. Ø The removal of all subsidies for crop-based biofuels post-2020.

Plants have been constructed, or are under development, based on the expectation of a post-2020 framework, and there is a clear need for market transition to second generation biofuels which will be based on the existing the biorefineries infrastructure. The shifting of the goalposts will derail current and committed investment estimated at hundreds of millions of pounds in the UK alone and provide no longevity for future

investments. Ø The proposed retrospective introduction of a 60% GHG saving requirement for all new biofuels plant in operation after July 2012.

While the REA supports the increased GHG savings, its retrospective nature will shift the goalposts for plant under construction, potentially wasting major investments made so far. Ø The proposed ILUC factors in the Fuel Quality Directive (FQD).

These will be particularly damaging to crop based biodiesel which is dominant in Europe, and risks undermining progress towards the 6% emissions savings target that the FQD requires EU fuel suppliers to achieve by 2020.

The REA believes that the proposals would damage the UK’s low carbon ambitions, leave the transport sector hooked on fossil fuels, and pull the rug from under our nascent sustainable biofuels industry. The framework for biofuels is highly complex, as are many of the issues around it, and the industry is frequently frustrated by gross over-simplifications in the biofuels debate.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Energy

Finally some good news for UK energy consumers Following yet another rise in energy prices we argue it is time to take action and join the new Micro Generation revolution.

ith Solar PV installation popping up everywhere now more and more people are becoming energy independent and with affordable prices (Funding is available) the rate of income and the level of energy cost savings will beat any other secure investment out there.

This opens up yet another window of opportunity for land owners and businesses to get their solar PV installations. However, this time round the potential benefits are massively increased due to the significant drops in PV prices. Under the current FIT rates we are now seeing Returns (ROI) figures reaching over the

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magic 15% mark. (Call for more details and pricing) If you feel ready to move forward, we would argue that there has never been a better time for this! Contact us today to make use of our FREE support service which will guarantee you gain a best quality installation.

For a FREE no obligation survey please call. 01300 345668 or Email us info@solarpowerintl.co.uk For BULK PURCHASE GROUPS in the south west! (Joining a purchase group is completely FREE and come with a time frame commitment). Please register your interest

FREE at www.solarpowerintl.co.uk. Or call 01300 345668

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| Energy

nextgen: renewable energy showcase for farmers nextgen, the UK’s fastest growing event showcasing emerging renewable energy technologies, will take place from 10th -11th October at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. ollowing a successful debut in 2011 which attracted over 3,000 visitors and 200 exhibitors, the event also encompasses ebec, the UK’s largest bioenergy show, and microgen, a show serving smallscale (sub-50kW) power producers.

With the trio of events combined at one location, nextgen makes it easier for visitors to retrieve relevant information and to establish business connections.

Farmers and land owners, will mingle alongside renewable energy producers, managers in the public sector dealing with energy efficiency, or supervisors managing food processing and waste.

Besides hosting a major international exhibition, the show also features a free to attend multistream conference delivering a range of topical and ‘how –to’ presentations and panel discussions. ebec treats farmers to the best in bioenergy The show took a major leap forward last year by almost doubling in size and increasing its

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attendance of decision makers by over 142%. Farmers from across the UK are one of the key audience groups which have travelled to the show to discover the latest insights and innovations in green technology.

In 2012, ebec has teamed up with the National Farmers Union (NFU) to deliver energy consultancy seminars at the event.

Lucy Pitt, group marketing manager of nextgen media, commented: “When we learnt the NFU were rolling out an energy service to their members, we knew it would be a great fit for the show being the leading voice for the UK’s farming sector. I look forward to providing an outstanding event that delivers for farmers and land owners who have already implemented renewable energy solutions, as well as those who have not yet decided which technology they want to work with.”

Jonathan Scurlock, NFU Chief Policy Adviser on Renewable Energy and Climate Change, will be chairing and speaking in farm related bioenergy sessions at the show.

Positive reactions from farmers Tom Kite, a mixed farmer from East Sussex, said of the show: “ebec is a fantastic event. I have a dairy and arable farm and have been looking at new income streams for many years. Three years ago, I invested in a wind turbine and my interest in renewable energy has grown since then. I came to the event to see if anaerobic digestion is for me.”

Farmer Paul Spoke, an arable farmer from Warwickshire, said he was using the event to browse for new opportunities, saying: “I have considered growing energy crops and firing up my own boiler. One of my neighbours started growing miscanthus recently and tells me he makes money from it. I didn’t believe him so I visited ebec.”

Must-attend event “We are confident that farmers visiting ebec will be able to capitalise from the highly relevant

information and advice they receive. Twinned with the networking opportunities and the opportunity to get a first look at new and exciting renewable energy technologies and techniques, ebec is clearly a mustattend event,” added Lucy Pitt.

“Bringing all the renewable energy solutions in one place at one time is a unique advantage for the show. For those undecided about which renewable energy source to select, nextgen provides essential information, guidance and support. For those ready to make an investment in a specific renewable energy project, nextgen is the perfect place to compare all of the options available from different suppliers, side by side.”

To attend nextgen for free, visit www.nextgenexpo.co.uk or call 0845 130 7753. Conference places are limited so register now to avoid disappointment!

See us at EBEC stand no. C22

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Energy

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| Energy

Renewable Energy Systems, are they still a viable investment?

With the recent changes by Government to the Feed-in tariff scheme and the delays in implementing parts of the renewable heat incentive many consumers have been left confused. any people believe that either the schemes have been scrapped or that renewable energy systems no longer make financial sense, both of these conceptions are wrong.

Whilst the changes to the schemes were handled badly by Government the need for reductions was clear as the costs of installed systems had fallen significantly. With the reduced price of an installed system the reduced tariff still gives an excellent return on and investment and at a reduced capital cost.

Brief details of the most common renewable energy systems are as follows; Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps With rising fuel costs heat pumps offer a real alternative to a traditional boiler heating system particularly if you are ”off gas” and are using Oil, LPG or electric heating systems. Heat Pumps will

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not only significantly reduce your heating bills but they will also provide you with a cash payment under the Governments Renewable Heat Premium Payment Scheme. For commercial customers the system may also qualify for an annual index linked payment for 20 years.

Solar Hot Water Heating Solar Hot water heating systems can provide up to 60% of your annual hot water and again will significantly reduce your hot water heating bills and also qualify for a tax free cash back payment from Government. These systems can be used both for homeowner installations but also for commercial applications, one of the most common is for farming where they can be used for hot water production in the Dairy sector. Solar Hot Water systems may also qualify for payments under the renewable heat incentive and again this is an index linked

payment for 20 years.

Photovoltaic (Solar Electricity Systems) The price of Photovoltaic (P.V.) systems has almost halved in the last year meaning that there has never been a better time to install a solar P.V. system. The system will generate your own free solar electricity reducing your electricity bills. In addition you will qualify for enhanced payments under the Feed-in tariff for all of the solar electricity you generate (even if you consume it all!) These payments are index linked for 20 years.

Wind Many Farms are perfect for the installation of a small wind turbine due to the average wind speeds available. A typical system is only 10 – 15m high so does not create the environmental and visual impact of large scale on shore turbines. Wind turbines have the added benefit of working in the

dark and in overcast conditions. In addition to produce your own free electricity you will also receive an enhanced payment for Government just for generating it as with solar P.V. Independent advice: As we are an independent multi technology company we can offer you free and objective advice on the renewable energy system that is best for you. We can help calculate installation costs, energy savings and advise you on any Government grants that may be available. We even have Finance and Lease options available to assist in the purchase of these systems.

Call our team on 0845 8382477 or visit our web site at solartech.org.uk for further information.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Buildings

Agricultural building maintenance the safe way Old farm buildings need constant maintenance to keep them fit for purpose and much of this work is carried out by the farmer or their work force. he problems come when it is the roof that needs work on it, to bring in a contractor to fix a leek or clean or replace the roof lights, looks to be very expensive and so many farmers are tempted to carry out the work themselves.

It is expensive because the competent contractor will use the correct health and safety protection.

The vast majority of old farm buildings roofs will be fragile, which means that although they will probably take an operatives weight, without failure, if the operative stumbles or comes down hard on his heal or falls, the roof could collapse under him like a trap door.

To overcome this we have seen operatives ‘walk the purlins’ i.e walk along the line of fixings as there will be a purlin underneath the sheeting which it is hoped will support the operative’s weight.

This is very dangerous; the roof will be sloping, probably dirty and covered in moss and in many cases wet and slippery, one false move and a stumble will mean that

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the operative’s foot comes down hard beside the purlin, tests have shown that this is the weakest part of the sheet. If the operative could see the ground many feet below them as they balanced on the purlin they would never risk it but because the drop is hidden people do risk it – out of sight out of mind.

Another way of reducing the risk of falling is to use a roof ladder to spread the load. This is all very well as long as the operative stays on the ladder but if for any reason they slip and fall off the ladder they are at risk of the roof acting as a trap door and so allowing them to fall to the ground. Again if the operative could see the ground many feet below would they risk crawling on a ladder? I think not. A roof ladder with a guard rail and the operative clipped to the rail with the correct harness and lanyard is safe but how many nonroofers have the correct kit and know how to use it.

Access is another dangerous activity, the easy way is to use a ladder and if nothing is being carried and the ladder is correctly set and footed this might be

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acceptable as a short term solution, but more often than not tools, equipment and or materials have to be carried on to the roof and doing this by ladder is very dangerous. One should always have three points of contact on a ladder and when carrying things this is usually not possible.

So other safe forms of access have to be found, using the forks of a fork lift is not acceptable.

Most roofs are slopping and so it is very easy to slip down the roof and off the eaves so to stop this risk, properly designed edge protection is required down slope of the operatives and on any other edges local to them. Again this is not something that most farmers will have to hand.

Before going on the roof of any old building the operative should look at the building as if the roofing materials are not there and ask themselves if they would still do the job if they could see the ground many feet below them.

If they do this I am sure that they will agree that the extra cost of using a competent contractor to do the work with the correct

equipment to ensure that the operatives are safe is money well spent.

“Another way of reducing the risk of falling is to use a roof ladder to spread the load.”

As an example to safely replace a roof light, it is likely that a MEWP with the controls in the basket will be required for access, edge protection to stop operatives falling off the edge of the roof and correctly rigged nets under the roof to stop operatives falling. This is expensive but too many farmers and others have been killed or badly injured falling from height we have to stop these needless deaths and injuries.

A list of competent contractors can be found at http://www.ridba.org.uk/expertsear ch.htm

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Cemsix goes with the grain Cembrit, the roofing and cladding expert, has recently provided natural grey Cemsix corrugated sheeting for one of the largest grain store buildings in the UK. ainthorpe Farm joins many other recent projects that use Cembrit’s Cemsix as its roofing material, to provide a robust and weatherproof roofing solution.

Rainthorpe Farm is located in the small village of Stainton by Langworth, which lies seven miles from Lincoln. The farm is purely an arable farm, and the new 5,000 tonne building with 2250m² of floor space, is used to store grain. It was important that the new building met the unique demands of grain storage, including; keeping the contents clean and dry, maintaining temperature whilst ensuring regular aeration and keeping birds and rodents out.

The building also needed to be durable, and robust enough to withstand the rigours of farming life.

Cemsix was the perfect solution to ensure the grain was stored properly. Cemsix has the advantage of being slightly porous, which means that high levels of water vapour or humidity within agricultural buildings can be absorbed by the sheets and

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gradually released into the atmosphere. This contrasts with steel where moisture condenses on the underside of the roof and drops back onto the contents inside. The material was also ideal because of its robust, practical qualities as it needs no maintenance to preserve its strength, because it is not affected by rust, destructive fungi, vermin or insects, so will not rot or decay.

In charge of constructing the new building was KW Timmins & Sons, an engineering company based nearby in Lincoln. The company specified Cembrit’s Cemsix for the building, having worked for many years with Cembrit’s products. “We chose Cemsix because it is a high quality material that is durable and longlasting. We recently used it on another grain store building, and were pleased with the results, so it made sense to use it for this project as well.”

Incorporating the latest technological advances, Cemsix allows designers to clad agricultural or industrial buildings in a Class 0 fire rated, rust and rot-

proof material that will last for decades. Manufactured using Portland cement, together with a formulation of superior blended synthetic and cellulose fibres and reinforced with strengthening strips and available with superior colouration systems, Cemsix is produced to the highest European standard.

Available in natural grey, matt black or matt green and ten attractive coated colour options, Cemsix is offered in a standard imperial 6 inch profile strengthened with strategically placed polypropylene reinforcement strips. These are incorporated within the fibrecement sheet to comply with BS and H&S requirements for site safety and fragility.

Using skills built up over 80 years, Cembrit offers a wide range of cladding panels, corrugated sheet and natural and man-made roofing slate. Quality levels at group factories are rigorously maintained to high standards with

“Cemsix was the perfect solution to ensure the grain was stored properly. Cemsix has the advantage of being slightly porous, which means that high levels of water vapour or humidity within agricultural buildings can be absorbed by the sheets and gradually released into the atmosphere.” many products manufactured under the control of ISO 9001 and British Board of Agrément. Cembrit UK is a member of Cembrit Holding A/S (formerly the Dansk Eternit Holding A/S) of Denmark, one of Europe’s major building material producers of fibre reinforced cement products for the roofing and cladding industry.

Further information from Cembrit Tel: 020 8301 8900 or visit www.cembrit.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Fuels

The AdBlue revolution is here!

The demands of current legislation relating to vehicle emissions have led to significant changes in vehicle engine and exhaust design and operation. o reduce NOx (Nitrous Oxide) emissions manufacturers of larger diesel engined vehicles had to adopt either the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) approach or the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) way. Most connected with the farming community appear to have gone down the SCR route. This means that all users now need to introduce AdBlue during the combustion process.

This is done automatically in measured amounts and is supplied from a small tank on the tractor, combine, etc. The tank needs topping up as you use diesel and it is important (to prevent damage to exhaust catalysts) to ensure that the AdBlue you use is good quality and is correctly stored.

As only small amounts are required (typically 5% or less of the diesel consumed), huge tanks may not be required for many farms and agricultural premises. Dedicated AdBlue storage tanks with pumps are available from most major manufacturers from around £2700 but, often a small portable AdBlue tank

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or an IBC may suffice. AdBlue portable tanks are perfect to take out on a pick-up or similar to top up combines during harvest for example and the CEMO range from Bundedtanks.com is ideal. These small tanks and other vehicle and tractor AdBlue tanks can be refilled from an IBC fitted with a dedicated AdBlue pump back at base. Beware however, don’t be tempted to use ordinary transfer pumps designed for fuel or oil, as seals and other parts will be affected by AdBlue; you must use a plastic AdBlue pump with special seals, hose and stainless steel nozzle. Check out the IBC and AdBlue pump deals on Bundedtanks.com. On offer now from £399 plus VAT delivered, they are proving very popular. Why not consider a second IBC to take deliveries of bulk AdBlue too? Refurbished models can be purchased for just £59 plus VAT delivered.

Customers buying SCR equipped Valtra tractors will only need to buy tanks when they take up the “free year’s supply of AdBlue” offer!

New tractor or not, if you are using AdBlue, check out the best storage and dispensing options, on-line at discounted prices: www.bundedtanks.com or call 0845 600 3572.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

Livestock 2012: business to the fore at The NEC Organisers hope to build on the success of the 2012 show for next year’s event rescheduled for July. usiness was to the fore at Livestock 2012, staged at The NEC, Birmingham on Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 September. “The rebranded event which attracted a record 530 exhibitors lived up to its reputation as being the business to business event within the sector, a fact which differentiates it from other shows,” commented Nick Everington, chief executive of its organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers.

“Exhibitors, both indoors and outdoors, reported quality enquiries and record levels of business regardless of the fact that many farmers had taken the opportunity to make the most of the good weather and catch up on harvesting operations after the wettest summer on record for 100 years. Furthermore,

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Livestock 2012’s international visitor lounge attracted representatives from 19 different countries ranging from Algeria to Zambia.

“In addition, visitors were keen to take home new information and advice from the 55 seminars and debates which were carefully designed to be thought provoking and practical so they could be readily applied on return to the farm the following day.

“We were particularly pleased by the industry’s response to our developments which over the last three years since relocating to The NEC have increased the event’s appeal to all farmers with livestock.

Trade stand numbers have increased during that period by 10%, and the space they occupy by 28%. We look forward to building on that success in 2013 as we reschedule the

event to the first week in July in the interests of all livestock farmers and creating the opportunity for them to get away from their farms to gain more knowledge and do business.”

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| Livestock

Dieci can handle it Machines specifically tailored for livestock farmers. ieci Telehandlers Ltd based in Dorset are a subsidiary company of Dieci srl the class leading Italian Telehandler Manufacture who exhibited at the livestock 2012 event last month. Three machines specifically tailored for the livestock farmer will be exhibited.

All Dieci Telehandlers benefit from wet inboard brakes, protected drive lines, inching pedal for controlled movements and more - just some of the standard features on all Dieci products.

The Dieci low profile compact Mini Agri 25.6 with excellent manoeuvrability at only 1800mm wide can lift a massive 2.5tons, and has a maximum lift height of 5.78 metres.

The Agri Farmer 26.6 is a 2000mm wide machine and available in three variations with lift heights up to 8.9metres, benefitting from the new Dieci ergonomic cab featuring electric window, new heating and ventilation system, superb visibility, Boom suspension, hydraulic reversing fan, Air conditioning just some of the features available, and

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now with 146’ head rotation offering best in class crowd and tip angle.

The Agri Star 37.7 part of a family of machines with booms up to 10 metres also benefits from a new boom offering a 146’ crowd and tip angle.

For peace of mind all three machines benefit from a 3 year warranty and product support package to include, cover can be extended to 4 years 6000hrs A low cost finance package is also available.

“ All Dieci Telehandlers benefit from wet inboard brakes, protected drive lines, inching pedal for controlled movements “ Dieci Telehandlers Ltd have seen tremendous growth in the last 12 months with a dedicated dealer network throughout the UK. For more information contact Dieci Telehandlers Ltd on 01258 817199 or visit our website www.dieci-telehandlers.co.uk

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| Livestock

38 degrees of separation ‘Snow joke: improve calf health with an Igloo ...with new cow cubicle from GEA & Kingshay. ingshay together with GEA Farm Technologies have revolutionised cow comfort with their new made-tomeasure cubicle system.

The M2M cow cubicle is a patent-pending design tested and developed by Kingshay, the Independent Dairy Specialists, together with GEA Farm Technologies Royal De Boer.

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Duncan Forbes, Managing Director at Kingshay, said: “The M2M design was developed after extensive research into the key elements that make a comfortable cubicle, including clear forward lunging space and a neck rail that can be adjusted to the size of the cow.”

The unique 38º angle provides simultaneous adjustment for both height and length and allows optimum space for cows to lunge

forward and sideways as they go in and out of the cubicle.

“As cows get bigger they not only get longer but also taller so the unique sloping top rail of the cubicle division ensures that the neck rail can be positioned proportionately both at the correct distance from the heelstone and the height above the bed for the size of the animals.”

The M2M not only provides superior cow comfort by providing the best positioning for the cows while lying and standing but its flexible design means it can be used in any situation too, making it the first choice for deep litter or mattress bedding systems.

GEA Farm Technologies Farm Equipment Manager, Martin Partington, said “There are a range of cubicles on the market to choose from, none of which offer the flexibility that the M2M does or has had the specialist knowledge of Kingshay helping with the development.”

To find out more call 02476 692 333 or email info.geafarmtechnologies.uk@gea .com. Alternatively visit www.geafarmtechnologies.co.uk.

Better health means optimal performance. off and Emma Roberts of Uphampton Farm Herefordshire have been using the Holm and Laue igloo system to rear calves since 2008 with huge success. “We were first introduced to the system in 2004 when we bought our first H&L 100 milk machine and fell in love with the concept of offering our calves a choice of environment” The concept was born in Germany for dairy farmers to provide a calf friendly environment that was also user friendly. It had been proven that the hutches worked but they were labour intensive so the igloo was developed which provides a well ventilated but draught free microclimate for up to 15 calves. The igloo along with a covered area, provide the calf with plenty of space to eat, rest and play and as the area can be easily mucked out the environment can stay clean. The

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building with the igloos around it is designed to be open, this allows for plenty of fresh air and reduces bacterial load but the roof keeps the bedded area dry.

Farmers who are rearing their calves in the Holm and Laue igloos have seen their calves reaching their target weights sooner due to reduced health challenges.

For more information please contact us on 01568 708380 or see www.calfigloo.co.uk

GEA Farm Equipment | Royal De Boer

GEA Farm Technologies (UK) Ltd Telephone: 02476 692 333 info.geafarmtechnologies.uk@gea.com www.gea-farmtechnologies.co.uk GEA Farm Technologies Technologies - The right choice.

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| Livestock

Straw Processing – Chop it, Shred it, Feed it

The Tomahawk Dual Chop 8150

However the farmer wants to process his straw, Teagle has a solution based on almost 30 years in the business and machines for 2012 offer even more improvements. ddition of processed straw to a feed ration, whether to improve the feed conversion factor or to provide bulk or structure to a diet is a well researched, documented and discussed subject with one common theme; ask any farmer what works best for their livestock and the answer will be different!

This is because the required characteristics of the straw content depend not only on livestock needs, but also the nature of the silage to which straw is being incorporated.

Teagle have been manufacturing straw processing machinery for almost 30 years and have a wealth of experience in tailoring our products to meet the needs of each individual user.

Experience has shown that there are three main reasons for preprocessing straw: Time and fuel can be saved by processing straw prior to it being added to the ration in the diet feeder. In some cases a smaller tractor is required for the diet feeder if it is not breaking down the complete bale.

By pre-processing straw the diet feeder does not need to mix for as long, thereby reducing the problem of over processing the silage in the ration Pre-processing can offer the user greater control of the characteristics of the straw component of the diet. Whether the desired straw length is 10mm or 100mm, milled to break down the stalk, or chopped cleanly to ensure the ‘tickle factor’ is achieved, Teagle can offer a

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solution for your feed requirements.

To meet the growing demands bought about by the ever increasing awareness of straw processing for feeding, Teagle brings two exciting new developments to what is already the most comprehensive range of feeder/bedders available from a single manufacturer.

The Tomahawk 505XLM The 505XLM is based on a mill rotor system with interchangeable screens available with 7 different hole diameters ranging from 10mm to 36mm, ideal for a consistent and fine chop length.

The mill can either be fitted with hammers, ideal for breaking up materials such as miscanthus or rape straw, or blades which increase output by up to 15% and leave a cleanly chopped length of straw.

For 2012 the machine has been fitted with an extended drum which enables a full size hesston bale to be loaded to the machine.

The Dual Chop System The Dual Chop is available in either mounted or trailed versions and offers users a greater output than the 505XLM, with a chop length down to around 25mm. This is achieved because straw that is too long to pass through a sieve located behind the chopping cassette is recycled through the blades by the crossbeater.

The Dual Chop system contains a set of retractable blades which can be repositioned at the touch of a button via hydraulic rams. This allows straw to be lightly shredded by the blades as it passes through

the cutting mechanism, or to be cut short.

For the 2012 season this machine is now available with replaceable Hardox teeth for greater durability, and an improved feed system for higher straw output.

Teagle is the UK market leader for feeder/bedders and the Dual Chop is manufactured alongside the rest of the range in it’s modern UK factory.

For further information, please contact either your local Teagle

Unique Chopping mechanism is updated for 2012

dealer or the Teagle UK Sales Office on 01872 560592.

Alternatively visit www.teagle.co.uk.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Livestock

Successful launch of UNIFORM-Touch UNIFORM-Agri was delighted with the response to the launch of their new handheld UNIFORM-Touch module at the 2012 Livestock Show at the NEC. raham Nowell of UNIFORM-Agri said “UNIFORM-Touch is an exciting new product that builds on the success of our UNIFORMMobile application. It allows you to access your UNIFORM program away from the office PC using a wifi or mobile internet connection on your smart-phone or tablet.”

He went on to say “Customers visiting our stand were excited that they can now use their Android, Apple or Windows Smart phone or Tablet to access and enter data on their UNIFORM program without

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“By having these lists on your smart-phone or Tablet you no longer have to carry and continually update paper reports and as UNIFORMTouch can work on multiple smart-phones or tablets this helps to improve communication on jobs due to be done on the farm that day or week.”

having to carry an additional device with them”.

UNIFORM-Touch has been designed to be Farmer-Friendly so that you can easily look up the Cows information away from the PC and make informed management decisions. It displays all your animal records and their current status along with Reproduction Events, Milk Yields and Cell Counts, Health Events and the Medicines used. Fertility information like Heats and Services, Pregnancy status can all be entered and you can also enter health and treatments with medicines including their batch numbers. All the data is automatically updated on to the UNIFORM program on the PC, ensuring that you always have access to the most up-to-date data.

In addition to accessing and entering data UNIFORM-Touch has been designed to provide the user with customised Action Lists on their smart-phone or tablet. These show all Cows due to be in Heat, Requiring a PD check, Due to be

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Dried Off or Due to Calve. In addition there is a specific Vet Check List showing the Cows and Young stock and importantly the reason why the Vet is due to see them and what happened last time.

Finally there is a report of Cows requiring Action which could be Cows due to be Foot Trimmed or Vaccinated or Cows currently on a Health Treatment Plan for a Health Condition showing all the animals to be treated and the medicines due to be administered that day.

By having these lists on your smart-phone or Tablet you no longer have to carry and continually update paper reports

and as UNIFORM-Touch can work on multiple smart-phones or tablets this helps to improve communication on jobs due to be done on the farm that day or week.

For more information on UNIFORM-Touch contact us on 01823 322504 or email uksales@uniform-agri.com Please see our demonstration movies at www.uniform-agri.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

Cheaper to install than conventional gates: Introducing the improved model Goosen Backing Gate system New improved backing gate with mesh barrier is electrifiable - and easier and cheaper to install.

airy Spares has relaunched an improved model of the Goossen Backing Gate – instead of rails there is a lightweight mesh barrier which is electrifiable. It is suspended from a metal overhead central track, making it simpler and cheaper to install than gates which need bolting to the collecting yard walls. The barrier can also be raised to pass back over incoming animals and save time.

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“A remote control option is also available for raising and lowering the gate” With the Goossen Backing Gate system, an alarm sounds as the

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gate moves the cows forward to the parlour. The gate can be electrified to encourage new cows in the herd to move forward, although after time, they learn to respond to the audible alarm.

The gate is controlled from a panel installed at the end of the milking pit. For safety, the gate only moves forward when a button is pressed and held. In reverse mode, the gate automatically travels to the rear of the yard without the need to continuously press the button. A remote control option is also available for raising and lowering the gate, which is useful for the driver of the scraper tractor.

The Goossen Backing Gate is custom-made for each situation: the cost of a fitted 7m (24ft) wide gate for a 24m (80ft) deep

collecting yard, would be £8,500.

For more information, dairy farmers can contact their local

stockist, or call Dairy Spares on 01948 667676.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Fencing

Electric fencing systems KiwiKit offer advice and practical tips when selecting and maintaining a successful electrical fencing system. n the current financial climate in farming, many dairy farmers and also beef and sheep farmers are looking at more efficient use of grassland to reduce costs. One of the keys to this grassland management is effective fencing whether temporary and semipermanent, conventional or electric fencing.

Electric fencing systems need to be planned and if necessary advice sought to ensure an effective system is implemented.

KiwiKit Ltd has a team of experts who are available to provide expertise and help plan systems to maximise the use of grassland.

Kiwikit is strongly linked with agriculture and has a deep understanding of the market, which has been built up from sourcing good quality realistically priced New Zealand products such as solar, mains and battery energisers, electric fencing accessories; products that really do their job. All of their products are known for their high quality and practicality here in the UK. KiwiKit recommends the following advice and practical tips

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when selecting and maintaining a successful fencing system.

FENCING TERMS: Voltage: Power on the wire that controls the livestock.

Joules; The horsepower of each fencer that drives volts along the wire.

Stored Joules; The horsepower in the fencer.

Output Joules: The real horsepower of the fencer: Approx. two thirds stored joules.

EG. 15 stored joules = 10 output joules TESTING YOUR FENCER: • No load: Voltage in the fencer.

• 500 OHMS: Voltage on wire in perfect conditions.

• 100 OHMS: Voltage on wire under grass growth condition.

Note: Voltage on fence wire should not drop below 2000 volts for effective livestock control.

CHOOSING A FENCER: • Assess whether temporary fencing with a portable battery or solar unit will suffice. For larger systems that require steel wire, mains fencers are more appropriate.

• 1 Output Joule will drive volts along 6 miles/10 kms of wire in

perfect conditions.

• Decide on the area and type of land to be fenced.

• The type of stock to be controlled.

• Choose a fencer larger than required to allow for fence additions.

ERECTING YOUR MAINS FENCER: • Place fencer unit in a cool dry well ventilated shed.

• Erect fencer out of reach of children and animals.

• Connect underground/lead out wire from fence terminal to fence wire.

• Connect underground/lead out wire from earth terminal to first earth rod.

• This is vital for the correct function or any electric fencing system whether temporary or mains.

EARTHING YOUR FENCER: • Choose an earth site that is moist and at least 33 ft, (10 metres) away from: • Any earth stake for another electrical system • Any telephone earth stake • Any water pipes including disused water pipes.

• Any building using structural steel or reinforcing metal in the ground.

NB. NEVER CHOOSE AN EARTH SITE NEAR A DAIRY OR MILKING PARLOUR. KiwiKit offers one-stop shopping for all quality fencing needs

including the extensive Strainrite range of tools and accessories.

We also supply dairy chemicals, calf rearing equipment as well as waterproof clothing. Our team of experts are available to provide advice when planning effective fencing systems.

KiwiKit Ltd products on offer can be sourced from catalogue, by phone, email or website. Call to discuss requirements and orders or request a full catalogue of all products they supply on 01584 879959 or log on at www.kiwikit.co.uk.

3 year warranty on Patura Electric Fence Energisers Specialist gate accessories and fencing supplier, Birkdale Sales, is promoting its 3-year warranty on its Patura range of electric fencing energisers. ach Patura energiser must be registered to qualify for the warranty – a simple process – and once they are, Birkdale will either replace or repair them free of charge, as appropriate, should they fail at any time within 3 years of the date of first purchase.

However breakdowns are rare: with German specification, manufacture and quality assurance, plus new generation components, Patura is arguably one of the most robust, reliable and durable electric fencing systems on the market today.

“Our energisers are designed and manufactured for tough situations”, explains the company’s Electric Fencing Product Manager, Harry Kilbey, “We expect them to be used in all conditions and to withstand anything nature can throw at them (except trees of course!).”

Birkdale can also help users with advice on how to guard against theft. “We know many farmers are worried about energisers being stolen, seeing as they’re often in remote fields away from the farm,” acknowledges Harry.

With over 20 years’ experience of developing and installing electric fencing systems, there’s little Harry hasn’t seen or resolved and he has some clever, yet surprisingly simple and cost effective, theft prevention strategies which have proved very successful in the field.

Patura is available from stockists throughout

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the UK and Ireland, supported by a full, specialist technical helpline service, on-site visits where necessary and with regular inbranch offers and promotions.

Birkdale: 0845 450 9000; www.birkdalesales.com

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| Fencing

Hampton’s XNET™ Superior fencing for Champions ‘Hampton's XNET™ fencing has proved a real winner in terms of its greatly improved strength, low profile horse friendly joints and overall performance.'

A.P. McCoy. ales of Hampton’s XNET™ have soared since its launch last year and with such endorsements as this from world champion jockey, A. P. McCoy, UK wire fencing manufacturer Hampton Steel will be well placed when they go on show with their range of equine products in Dubai at the world renowned Al Fares International Equine Trade Fair in October. In its ninth year, the Al Fares Show is the oldest equine trade fair in Asia and Africa and marks the start of the race season in Dubai.

With its low profile X shaped knotted joint locking vertical and horizontal wires tight, Hampton’s XNET™ is an impressive option for various applications including equine. The versatility of

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Hampton’s XNET™ is quite staggering, mesh sizes can be as small as 2”(50.8mm) x 2”(50.8mm) helping to protect against injury to legs, providing a safer and more secure enclosure than more traditional fencing systems. Fence heights are available up 2.6 metres and Hampton’s also produce the more labour and cost saving jumbo 500m rolls of both hinge joint and Hampton XNET™.

Hampton’s have just returned from the hugely popular APF Exhibition held at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire, UK’s largest showcase for woodland, forestry, arboriculture, fencing, trees and timber. 270 exhibitors and over 20000 visitors attended over the three days and with a vast range of products on show, Hampton’s received strong interest ‘APF was a great success for us so full credit must go to the organisers, we will definitely be rebooking for the next one. We had a huge cross section of enquiries for everything from classic hinge joint to our newest addition to the product range, Hampton’s XNET™. The feedback has been amazing but not, I have to say, surprising. We know we have a superior product to offer, it’s just great to have these endorsements from those who matter most, our customers’ Peter Matten, Sales Director of Hampton Steel Ltd You can view Hampton’s entire product range at www.hamptonsteel.co.uk or contact sales on 01933 234070

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Diet Feeders

Electronic feed management system for Hi-Spec feeders Helps in the quest to increase efficiency and improve overall production. he Hi-Spec Vertical Auger Feeder comprises a total of eight models with either a single or twin auger, and with capacities ranging from 10m3 up to 24m3. The augers are centrally located in order to provide a thorough mixing and chopping action and are fitted with self-sharpening chopping knives, mounted on steel brackets, that constantly chop the feed material during the mixing process.

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“For this autumn, Hi-Spec will have available a tandem-axle, 20m3 twin auger Vertical Mixer, complete with the Digi-Star feed management system available for demonstration. “ A particular feature of the Hi-Spec Vertical mixer range is the wide range of discharge door location options. On single rotor machines there are a total of seven door options on the front, side or rear of the mixer, whilst there are nine door options on the twin auger version.

New VHD discharge conveyor In addition to the standard chute, the Vertical Auger Feeder features the new VHD (Variable Height Discharge) Conveyor that is now available as an option.

The VHD Conveyor avoids the need for an expensive elevator and features a modular belt

44 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

system that can be offset to either side of the machine. Available for either single or twin tub models, the discharge height can be altered on-the-move over a range from 0.58m up to 1.40m. The conveyor itself is manufactured using heavy duty nylon links, similar to those used on potato machinery, in order to provide optimum reliability and low wear.

Digi-Star TMR Tracker Hi-Spec Engineering has become one of the first in the UK to offer the Digi-Star TMR Tracker feed system on their diet feeders, and this will be fitted on the Vertical Auger Feeder on display at the Dairy Event. The system will also be available on the Hi-Spec MixMax diet feeder.

The Digi-star feed system comprises of two elements, the TMR Tracker computer software that is used to create, cost and manage the ration mix, and the Cab Control system that is fitted to the diet feeder.

TMR Tracker is a powerful and versatile feed management programme that is designed to provide livestock farmers with all the information they need to accurately manage the feed ration, increase efficiency and help improve overall production.

Using TMR Tracker, information on the TMR ingredients, mixes and production groups can all be entered and stored on the computer.

Depending on requirements, three levels of functionality are available – Lite, Pro and Pro+ which can be easily upgraded online.

Using the software, having entered ingredient details, additional information such as cost, dry matter values and dry matter intake can all be stored, and various reports and costings can be compiled. In addition, this information can also be transferred across into more general farm management programmes.

TMR Tracker also provides access to online support or an international help desk.

Having created the mix, the component information and quantities are managed using the Cab Control system fitted to the feed wagon. This comprises two components, a weighing indicator and scale system fitted to the mixer wagon itself which is wirelessly linked to a second control box fitted in the cab of the loading vehicle.

The ration mix information created using the TMR Tracker software is transferred to the Cab Control unit using either a Datakey memory chip, or by using the Datalink wireless system, which provides a continuous exchange of data over a range of up to 1.5km depending on location.

When creating the mix, the Cab Control unit will display the required ingredients and qualities, appropriate to individual groups if necessary. As the mix is created, the actual weights loaded and then fed are recorded and saved, and this information can then be transferred back to the TMR Tracker software via the Datalink or Datakey.

Through the combination of the highly efficient mixing system used by Hi-Spec Vertical or MixMax diet feeders and the use of the DigiStar system, which is one of the most advanced feed management systems available on the market, this will help ensure livestock owners achieve maximum output and cost effectiveness from their ration mix.

For this autumn, Hi-Spec will have available a tandem-axle, 20m3 twin auger Vertical Mixer, complete with the Digi-Star feed management system available for demonstration.

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| Diet Feeders

Diet feeders for all purposes Harry West (Prees) Ltd can now offer the full complement of diet feeding options for your particular requirements. n our ever changing times the demand to produce more for less cost has never been more prevalent and in the dairy / beef industry this is always a very topical issue.

The range of Diet Feeders available from this North Shropshire based company cover every requirement of the progressive breeder and these include the West Diet Feeder, this paddle type mixer has won many RASE awards and is available in 12 m続 and 16 m続 capacities. This low power requirement, top quality mixing and high feed out design has been very successful and allows clamp silage to be processed to a very high standard.

For customers who require to chop material we can offer the full range of Seko machines, these top quality horizontal and vertical design machines gives us, up to the minute design and a statement of being The Best Unifeed for our market.

The Samurai 5 horizontal range of machines gives us capacities of 5 cu/m up to 30 cu/m in various configurations consisting of trailed, self propelled and stationary units. The simple design consisting of 2 augers with 4 convergent windings along with stationary and auger blades give a very good chopping and mixing effect as favoured by our many customers. Various options are available to custom build the diet feeder to your individual requirements; this along with a very competitive price structure gives you a machine that will

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benefit your prized stock.

The Tiger range of vertical tub feeders gives capacities from 9 cu/m up to 41 cu/m in either single, twin or triple auger designs, single or tandem axle options are available on the trailed machines along with side, front or rear discharge, various weigh system options, hydraulic or air brake systems, etc. to give you a machine to suit your system all at a very competitive price.

For the progressive farmer and contract feeders there are the options of purchasing a self-propelled unit, these state of the art machines are based around both the horizontal

or vertical chopper mixer units and cover the range from 11 cu/m to 20 cu/m in horizontal versions and 12 cu/m to 24 cu/m in vertical machines. Optional extras are available to configure the machine to your particular requirements.

The above, plus Harry West (Prees) Ltd commitment to product support and service parts gives you the all round package for your next purchase.

Details from James Llewellyn on 01948 840465 or John Taylor on 07753 724575 or visit www.harrywest.co.uk. Alternatively, email: sales@harrywest.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Sheep & Lambing

North-East Scotland a hotbed for Sheep Scab Recent figures released by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) show that 37 of the 76 cases of sheep scab reported in Scotland this year were in Aberdeenshire. hilst this was the region with the highest number of reported cases, parts of the Borders, Perthshire and Lanarkshire all had relatively high numbers of confirmed cases reported too. This trend is causing worries regarding farm biosecurity in these regions and farmers are warned to be extra vigilant as we enter the winter season, when sheep scab is typically most rife.

Caused by Psoroptes ovis mites that cause intense itching, sheep scab is a highly contagious condition that can cause significant production losses on sheep farming enterprises.

Affected animals continually nibble their fleeces or rub against rails and posts to alleviate the irritation.

Fleece damage and disrupted feeding patterns leading to poor live-weight gains are the most significant sources of loss to farmers. As well as this, sheep scab presents a significant welfare issue. For some sheep, the irritation is so intense, it can cause them to have fits.

Scotland is the only area in the UK that has a control scheme in

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place for sheep scab. It is based upon mandatory reporting of suspected disease by farmers and vets which allows trends to be identified. The number of cases reported this year has been converted into a map showing the regions that seem to be struggling the most with infection. The apparent geographical concentration of cases in northeast Scotland is particularly worrying as this is a region typically associated with growing and finishing lambs. Concerns about appropriate biosecurity for bought in animals on these farms have been raised as a result.

Current recommendations state that bought in animals for which treatment history is unknown should first be dosed for scab with an effective product such as doramectin (Dectomax®). This is important even in animals that are not displaying signs of the disease, as some infections are asymptomatic. A single injection of Dectomax® provides treatment for sheep already carrying mites.

The new animals should then be quarantined in one place for at

Schmallenberg Virus discovery in Wales NSA says latest Schmallenberg case must be fully investigated to aid understanding of the virus. ational Sheep Association is fully in support of a thorough and rapid investigation, following the discovery of Schmallenberg in Dyfed, West Wales, earlier this week.

Joanne Pugh, NSA Senior Communications Officer, said: “It’s disappointing to hear that Schmallenberg has been circulating in West Wales, as we thought it had not spread that far at this stage.

“We understand that investigations are going to be carried out at the farm by AHVLA and Welsh Government, and it is vital that these are carried out quickly and thoroughly, so we add to our limited understanding of the virus.

“NSA continues to push for a vaccine to be developed and licenced for UK use as quickly as possible, as we just do not know what is around the corner

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with this disease. This new case proves that point and shows how important it is for Defra and others to continue to look at vaccination options. In the meantime farmers must be vigilant to signs of infection, as it is only by seeing different cases that we can lean more.”

Commenting specifically on this latest farm to be affected, Miss Pugh said: “Our thoughts are with the family involved, as it is very distressing to be hit by Schmallenberg through no fault of their own and with no real way of knowing where the virus came from or what long-term affects it might have.”

46 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

least 17 days. This protocol ensures that there is no transfer of infection to the existing flock.

Countries such as New Zealand have successfully achieved eradication of sheep scab and the authorities in Scotland putting the disease firmly on the agenda places them one step closer to being able to boast the same.

Farmers that suspect they may have a sheep scab problem can be reassured that the tests required for diagnosis are government funded and can be confident in approaching their vet for advice. With these alarming trends emerging in Scotland already this year and the mites

responsible being more active in the winter months, vigilance by farmers is imperative to prevent dramatic spread.

Dectomax® 1% w/v solution for injection contains 10mg/ml Doramectin, Legal category POM-VPS For further information contact Elanco Animal Health, Lilly House, Priestley Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9NL, Tel 01256 353131, Fax 01256 779510 Email elancouk@lilly.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Sheep & Lambing

EID how do they do that?

EID is part of every sheep farmer’s vocabulary and in the near future likely to engage cattle enterprises too, but how do they actually work. lectronic Identification is mainly based around a carrier such as ear tags though collars and even injectables for dogs and cats use the same principles, all the carriers contain a Passive (no battery) Transponder (Fig 1) which is made up of two partsThe Chip This is the intelligence of the transponder where preprogrammed data is held. The chip requires power to release its data, its normal state is dormant/passive. The chip is tiny so is mounted on “packaging”, the accuracy of this placement will greatly affect readability of the tag.

The Coil or Antenna An essential part of the transponder, this precision engineered Air Coil- usually round and often found in tags like the Dalton I-Tag 30 and I-25, or a Ferrite Coil which is a small ferrite rod found in rectangular tags such as Dalton I-Roto. These coils and rods are have copper windings and the number of windings used is critical to the readability of the

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tag, to little or too much and the operating frequency is affected.

This frequency, 134.2mhz, is specified in ISO11784, ISO11785 and ISO24631.

The transponder is then moulded or potted (bonded) into the finished item, such as an ear tag, it is important to ensure long life and retention rather than being pressed in which can “pop” out in the future.

How is the data programmed?

All transponders are blank until programmed, for agriculture it is usually government issued numbers, but the tags could be programmed with anything!!!!

Chips are programmed using special encoders which programs the required information onto the blank chip, then, after verification, a state of the art laser printer physically burns in the details on the outside of the tag. The chips are not rewriteable.

How is it read?

Remember the transponder is passive and has no battery, so the next bit is really clever. A reader is used to activate the

tag/transponder (Fig 3) by sending out waves of energy which excites the coil to accumulate enough energy to power up the chip which in turn releases its data to the reader. Like a parent saying a child’s name until the child answers, simple! A good quality chip, well “packaged” with a

quality coil should be readable for many, many years to come. At Dalton we use the world’s best quality transponders which consistently out perform other tags on the market (see ScotEID report 2011).

Price, Quality & Service, it’s what we do!

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Sheep & Lambing

Sheep Ectoparasite control Untreated infestations can be fatal. heep can be affected by a number of ectoparasites that inhabit their skin or fleece. Ectoparasites can have a significant effect on sheep productivity by downgrading the wool quality, reducing reproductive potential leading to a poor lamb crop, and by reducing meat production. More importantly ectoparasites can adversely affect the welfare of infested sheep. Untreated infestations of scab or blowfly strike can be fatal whilst ticks can carry other sheep diseases as well as human infections The “summer� that has passed us by has had one benefit in terms of reduced fly kevels and subsequently less blowfly strike than normal .It is vital however that the responsible advisor does not forget the importance of good ectoparasite control advise to the farmer.

Maggots can often raise their head well into September, due to mild weather and parasitic scours being a suitable bed of infestation. It is therefore prudent to be vigilant and to advise appropriate preventative and curative treatment for blowfly and other ectoparasites.

Traditionally All Sheep received their traditional Summer and Winter Dip which gave good control againist the external parasites of sheep. Nowadays there is a myriad of options available to the farmer including, traditional organophosphorus based dips, and various pour on formulations with various active ingredients such as Cypermethrin, Dicyclanil and Cyromazine.

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The various options available to farmers mean that there can be confusion relating to the activity of different active ingredients and the different formulations available. This has led to increased risks of ectoparasitic outbreaks and indeed there are reports of increased incidences of Sheep Scab and lice in sheep in recent years. This is because while dipping gave control and treatment of all external parasites, many pour ons are geared toward one specific purpose and other parasites can multiply unhindered.

It is vitally important for the responsible person to know the indications, modes of action and limitations of the treatments so that they can give correct and timely advise to the farmer.

Firstly however, it is vitally important for the farmer to get an accurate diagnosis of the problem so that he can get an appropriate product from his supplier. I have recently heard a farmer complaining about a product he claimed was not working. He had treated his sheep unsuccessfully after he incorrectly diagnosed the sheep as having lice when in fact they had the highly contagious, severely debilitating and notifiable sheep scab. Such a delay in diagnosis and appropriate treatment can be difference between a mild infestation and a severe flock outbreak.

My advice to the farmer would be to consult a vet if there is any doubt about the causal agent of any outbreak of ectoparasitic disease.

The vet can use his professional judgement or can take samples for fast and cost effective microscopic laboratory examination to confirm a diagnosis. The appropriate product can then be decided on and treatment initiated.

When dipping sheep it is important to realise first of all that safety instructions on the products should be paid attention to in full.

Particular attention should be paid to preparing and handling the dips, wearing appropriate protecting clothing and disposal of the dips safely on land afterwards.

To ensure efficacy of the dip it is vital that the dip be diluted to the recommended concentration and equally it is important that the dip tank is topped up with dip and water at the recommended intervals.

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| Sheep & Lambing

When dipping plunge the head under at least twice as the scab mite has a preference for surviving in the fold of skin around the eyes and ears.

There are reports of increased post – dipping lameness in UK dipped sheep this summer. Post – dipping lameness in sheep is caused by infection with Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae after dipping in insecticidal solutions which do not contain a bactericidal agent. This increased incidence is down to the fact that due to the unusual amounts of rain falling, sheep holding facilities are dirtier than normal which is leading to increased levels of contamination in the dipping tank.

To avoid post dipping lameness ensure the tank is thoroughly cleaned before use and only fill the clean tank with water on the actual day of dipping. Also ensure minimal faecal contamination by not dipping the sheep on full stomachs. Post dipping lameness may occur when the sheep are dipped in dirty wash, or wash which has been allowed to stand in the bath overnight or longer.

This is why it is important that the dip bath should be emptied and thoroughly cleaned at the end of each day’s dipping or earlier if it becomes excessively dirty during the days dipping.

“To ensure efficacy of the dip it is vital that the dip be diluted to the recommended concentration” Dipping is my preferred method for scab treatment and control. Traditional OP dips such as Goldfleece have good activity againist the scab mite Psoroptes ovis. For the purposes of dipping against sheep scab, sheep must be totally immersed in a sheep

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bath of an approved sheep dip, and all parts of the sheep except the head and ears must remain immersed in the bath for a period which shall in no case be less than one minute.

When applying sheep pour ons on first and foremost the product must be used in the correct manner and for the correct purpose. Dicyclanil containing pour ons while effective at blowfly prevention cannot be used for any other form of ectoparasite treatment or control. To clarify, these products have no efficacy at blow fly treatment, lice ticks, keds or scab control.

Another class of commonly used pour ons in sheep, high- cis Cypermethrins can be used for blowfly treatment and blowfly strike prevention, as well as having efficacy againist lice, ticks and headflies. These Cypermethrins should be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to achieve required control of the particular parasite in question. These cypermethrin products are useful because of their wide range of indications and also tend to have short meat withdrawal periods which are useful when treating fattening labs at this time of year.

Overall there were never as many options for the farmer in for ectoparasite control. It is therefore important that those in the trade are well informed so that they can give the best advice possible and ensure ectoparasitic control is optimum. This well informed advice will help ensure maximum productivity and minimal ectoparasitic disease on UK Sheep farms.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Animal Health

Ceva injects progress Shropshire based into anti-infectives range animal health business becomes part of the Wynnstay Group W Ceva Animal Health has continued to expand its Large Animal team with the appointment of Stephenie Clarke as Marketing Manager. ith extensive knowledge of bovine reproduction, Stephenie will be primarily responsible for progressing the company’s innovative Cevolution anti-infectives range as well as their cattle reproduction portfolio.

Stephenie completed a PhD in bovine ovarian function, after which she gained considerable sales and marketing experience in the life science industry. During this time Stephenie also achieved a Professional Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

She said: “My new role gives me the opportunity to combine my

specialist technical knowledge with my marketing experience. I am particularly looking forward to launching Ceva’s new Cevolution range of anti-infectives and enhancing the ReprodAction campaign that uniquely encompasses all hormones for cattle fertility treatment.”

Ceva has a comprehensive injectable anti-infectives range which includes Marbox®, Florkem® and Cevaxel® RTU and a full range of cattle hormones. For further information contact Ceva Animal Health Ltd on +44 (0) 1494 781510 or visit www.ceva.co.uk.

Gutworm epidemic One Billion Litres of Milk Lost due to Gutworm in 2011? utworm could be reducing UK dairy farmers’ yields by as much as a billion litres of milk a year, and costing them hundreds of millions of pounds according to new figures released by Merial Animal Health. The calculations, which are based on bulk milk tank tests carried out across UK dairy farms, show that total losses over a three-year period may be as much as £827 million.

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Merial has now been supporting MOO testing – a test which measures the levels of gutworm antibodies in the milk for three years and has data from more than 650 herds. Over that period some 91% of the herds tested have proved to have a high level of gutworm challenge. Research has demonstrated that gutworms can reduce yield by up to 2.2 litres per day.1 Merial’s Veterinary Adviser

Fiona MacGillivray said: “In adult cattle, gutworm infection tends to be a sub-clinical disease which therefore goes unnoticed by farmers, but this simple test, available through their vet, can quickly show whether gutworms could be lowering production in the herd. Test results help predict whether the productivity of the herd could be improved following treatment with the wormer Eprinex®, which removes gutworm infections.

Eprinex® is the wormer which has been proven to improve productivity in cattle time and again, in those herds which had high test results in the numerous studies done across the world over the last decade. Based on an average herd size of 123 cows with a high gutworm challenge identified by the MOO test, the losses incurred could have amounted to some 82,000 litres of milk in 2011, resulting in lost income of £22,572 (based on the average farmgate price).

Eprinex® is the only wormer that has a licensed zero milk withhold period, and can therefore be used on lactating cows without the worry of lost milk sales.

MOO tests were conducted on 72 herds in 2011, 119 in 2010 and 464 in 2009. The number of litres lost was calculated on an average 305 days lactation per year, meaning that a cow with a high gutworm challenge could produce 671 litres less.

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hropshire based animal health business Whitchurch Animal Health became part of the Wynnstay Group in a deal announced on the 4th of September, and becomes the agricultural Group’s 30th retail country store.

The outlet will continue to supply agricultural products including animal health, dairy hygiene and mineral supplements and will work with the Wynnstay Group to develop the range of products and services offered to customers.

Mike Clutton, owner of Whitchurch Animal Health comments; ‘This is an excellent opportunity to develop our product offering for our loyal customer base, whilst removing some of the

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burden of paperwork and legislative compliance from ourselves. We are looking forward to working with Wynnstay to develop our business further and we are certain that the opportunities Wynnstay can provide will be of benefit to our customers’ Andrew Evans, Retail Director at Wynnstay comments; ‘This is an exciting opportunity for the Group to expand the business into the Whitchurch area to serve both existing and new customers. Mike has vast experience and knowledge of the agricultural supply industry and we are looking forward to working with him and his team, who will continue to develop the excellent relationships they have with their customers.

Barrier V1 disinfectant 100% natural - non-toxic formulation.

Will Kill bacteria Neutralise odours Reduce ammonia levels Assure operator safety Create better working conditions Be easy to apply Be quality assured

Won’t arrier Animal Healthcare, the research division of Barrier Biotech Limited, designed, manufacture & market a very effective disinfectant that contains only concentrated plant derivatives, which are entirely nontoxic - even in concentrated form.

Designed especially for use in intensive rearing units, it is the only one of its kind to be suitable for use in organic farming systems. All Barrier products fall into the exempt category of products which use only plant oils as active ingredients, as listed in Annexe II B (Pesticides) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 (as amended) and can therefore be used in organic systems.

The product has a high dilution

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Corrode metals Stain Cause carcinogenic effects Work alongside synthetic chemicals Harm spraying equipment Cause harm to the environment Barrier V1 is NOT tested on animals rate of 1:40 parts water and is ideal for use in intensive rearing units, breeding units, egg layers, hatcheries and food preparation areas, where the need for fast turnaround and immediate access / re-stocking is necessary.

For more information on all Barrier products call + 44 (0)1953 456363 or visit www.barrierbiotech.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Animal Health

New era vaccine to protect against costly poultry disease An innovation in protecting chickens against E.coli bacteria has been achieved with the launch of the first modified live vaccine by Pfizer Animal Health. he Poulvac® E.coli vaccine, which can be used from one day of age, is set to bring major benefits in safeguarding the health of broilers, pullets for egg laying and breeding stock.

E.coli is a costly, widespread problem for the UK poultry industry. It is one of the most significant bacterial pathogens found in chicks during the first week, leading to problems throughout the life of a flock including inferior performance, lack of uniformity and increased mortality.

The vaccine was developed from research beginning in the 1990s at the Government’s veterinary laboratories at Weybridge (now AHVLA) in the UK, employing genome technology to produce an avirulent strain of E.coli that induces protective immunity to the pathogenic strains of the bacteria.

The vaccine is completely non-pathogenic, and does not persist in the bird or the environment for any significant period of time.

A gene deletion in its development restricts in vivo replication and leaves behind activated macrophages ready to respond to pathogenic E.coli strains.

“Poulvac E. coli provides broad cross protection against the key serotypes of E. coli infecting chickens,” says Dr Stuart Andrews, poultry technical manager of Pfizer in the UK and Ireland. “It is the only modified live, nonreactive vaccine proven to meet the European regulatory requirements for efficacy and safety.

“Trials have confirmed that Poulvac E.coli does not persist in the bird and proves to be self-limiting. The vaccine can survive in the environment for only a short time, and spread to in-contact birds is also limited.”

The vaccine is administered as a coarse spray with onset of immunity 14 days afterwards and duration of immunity for up to 12 weeks. It can be used from day-old up to six weeks before the onset of lay, and has a nil day withdrawal period.

Field trials have demonstrated its success in protecting against many different heterologous serotypes on USA broiler farms with a history of E. coli problems, showing that identifying a strain’s serotype is not critical to its effectiveness.

Field experience in Morocco was obtained from 112,000 broilers on 15 farms vaccinated with Poulvac E. coli in the hatchery or on the first day on the farm, with another 112,000 birds kept on the same sites as unvaccinated controls.

The vaccinated birds performed better in all parameters investigated. Mortality was 7.7 per cent against 8.8 for the control birds, and incidence of colibacillosis 1.7 per cent against 3.5. Daily weight gain was up from 59 to 61.3 grams, while feed conversion improved from 2.20 to 2.16.

Significantly, too, the vaccinated flocks needed less antibiotic treatment – 0.54 treatment days compared with 1.97 for the controls.

“The commercial experience in Morocco showed clearly the reduction in lesions

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attributable to E.coli for vaccinated broilers when compared with unvaccinated controls, along with improved performance and health” says Dr Andrews. “It also proved the safety of the vaccine in line with European regulatory requirements with no demonstrable difference in either mortality or performance of the birds during the first two weeks of life.”

In another study in the USA the vaccine was given to commercial layers at one day of age and again at 12 weeks* with an E. coli challenge at 23 weeks. This showed a 13 per cent reduction in mortality compared with the unvaccinated control birds.

In a flock of 75,000 layers such a lowering of mortality could help protect 3000 hens from mortality, resulting in some 900,000 extra eggs.

In the USA where Poulvac E coli has been available for six years field experience has shown the considerable benefits. In the Midwest where average layer mortality at 50 weeks of age was 2.31 per cent, this was reduced to 1.51 per cent with three doses of the vaccine*. In Eastern USA flock mortality compared with five previous flocks was reduced from over three per cent to one per cent.

A field trial in the USA with more than 300,000 broiler breeders vaccination before lay reduced mortality from 2.8 to 1.9 per cent — with only two out of 28 flocks needing antibiotic treatment compared with 13 of the 28 unvaccinated flocks.

On a broiler field trial in Georgia over four million birds were vaccinated with Poulvac E. coli at hatch. The vaccinated birds had a better feed conversion (1.79 against 1.84 for the controls) and with condemnations at the processing plant down from 1.22 to 0.73 per cent the result was a lower production cost of 0.51¢ per lb.

In another broiler trial covering more than two million birds in Arkansas livability was improved from 95.20 to 95.77 per cent and feed conversion improved from 1.95 to 1.90, gaining 0.45¢ per lb. * It is important to note that in these studies carried out in the USA more than one dose of

the vaccine was often administered. A single vaccination is licensed in the Summary of Product Characteristics however, where clinical disease requires and at the discretion of a veterinary surgeon, the vaccination schedule may be re-started as there is no contraindication on the SPC. Impact of E.coli disease The majority of commercially produced poultry are known to have some E.coli with some strains inherently more pathogenic than others, and when mortality occurs the bacteria is often implicated. Most strains are nonpathogenic and reside within the intestinal tract as commensals, known as avian faecal E.coli.

Andrew Walker, poultry specialist at Slate Hall Veterinary Practice, reports that E.coli is the most common bacteria isolated from post mortem submissions through their laboratory at Willingham, Cambridge.

Those strains causing disease, known as avian pathogenic E.coli (APEC), have developed adaptations enabling them to live outside the intestinal tract, leading to both localised and systemic manifestations of the disease. Most of these strains are pathogenic for poultry only and are responsible for the most common infectious bacterial disease of farmed poultry.

Avian pathogenic E. coli act principally as bacterial ‘opportunists’ that affect both broiler and layer parent flocks and commercial broilers often following immunosuppressive diseases such as infectious bursal disease, chicken anaemia and Marek’s disease and primary upper respiratory disease such as infectious bronchitis, infectious laryngotracheitis or mycoplasmosis.

The most common conditions include septicaemia, peritonitis and salpingitis in broiler breeders and layers; airsacculitis and septicaemia complex in commercial broilers; cellulitis or infectious process resulting in lesions that downgrade broilers at the processing plant, and swollen head syndrome in broilers and occasionally breeders.

For more information call 0845 300 8034 or visit www.pfizerah.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Machinery

The new Deutz-Fahr Series 7 TTV Reliability, efficiency and productivity. he new Deutz-Fahr Series 7 TTV range is targeted both at contractors and large scale farmers and offers tractors designed to provide reliability, efficiency and productivity. The range comprises three models: the 7210, 7230 and the 7250, the latter rated at a maximum of 263hp.

Power is provided by a new six-cylinder Deutz TCD 6.1 litres engine which meets the Stage lll B (Tier 4 interim) emissions requirements - exhaust gasses are treated by an SCR catalytic converter.

Engine design features include four valves per cylinder, centrally positioned injectors, a turbocharger, an intercooler and a waste gate along with DCR (Deutz Common Rail) high pressure fuel injection system operating at 2000 bar. Maximum rated power is delivered at an engine speed of 1900 rpm and the power remains virtually constant between 1600 rpm and 2100 rpm.

The Series 7 TTV range is an example of Deutz-Fahr’s successful downsizing strategy which uses a high degree of technology in the design and construction of engines to scale down their size and, with it, fuel consumption overall. These engines can also run on biodiesel fuel, either blended with ordinary diesel or 100% pure.

The TTV transmission is manufactured by ZF and is a tried and tested system which is universally respected for its design and reliability within the agricultural tractor manufacturing business. It provides a top speed of 60kph and, when travelling at 40kph, allows the engine to run at a fuel saving 1300rpm. Control is via a joystick which provides infinitely variable speed variations from zero through to its top speed.

For the pto, the 7210 TTV is equipped with a 540/540E/1000/1000E gearbox with

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52 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

mechanical selection, and the larger two models have 540E/1000/1000E speeds as standard with selection made using an electro-hydraulic clutch which also provides a soft start pick-up.

An active wheel slip control operates when the tractor slows down after the accelerator is released. It is a feature which also activates automatic engagement of four wheel drive and differential lock and is designed to increase safety when transporting heavy loads on steep gradients.

Braking is catered for by the PowerBrake and there is the electronic parking brake (EPB) which provides ‘smart’ braking in response to the load and data received from the active control of the TTV transmission.

In the hydraulic system there is a separate power steering pump and a 44 litre/min pump to power auxiliary circuits. For the main hydraulic system there is a load sensing pump rated at 120 litres/min (165 litres/min can be specified) which feeds four double acting spool valves as standard and up to seven if requested. There is a further option for two spool valves to be fitted at the front of the tractor. All spool valves have timer and flow control functions and their operating levers and ports are colour coded.

Maximum lift capacity for the

rear linkage is 10,000kg, the control is handled by the tractor’s EHR electronic management system which offers functions which include quick soil engagement, oscillation damping for mounted implements, position selectable transport lock, lift height limiter, rate of drop control and maximum permissible wheel slip setting. Front lift capacity for the optional front linkage is 4500kg.

The Series 7 TTV range’s new MaxiVision cab, which will be standard on all continuous Tier 4i tractors over 120hp, has all its key operating elements for engine control, driving, ptofunctions and hydraulic control located on the new armrest along with the new joystick control.

As standard, the tractor is equipped with the new coloured work display which helps to give a clear indication of the task each function is responsible for.

This operating concept was developed by Deutz-Fahr working together with farmers, contractors and Giugiaro, the latter one of the leading design companies in the automotive business.

For the cab itself, extensive use of glass provides good unrestricted views of proceedings and high quality of materials are used throughout the cab – not least in the seating department where the driver and passenger can now enjoy even thicker padding.

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Morris Corfield & Co Limited Benthall Works, Shropshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01757 249799

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

Newton Street, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9PJ Tel: 01588 673325

A14 Telford Road, Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Tel: 01869 329988

Westington Works, Docklow, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0SJ Tel: 01885 488884

Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Tel: 01582 727111

Wilfred Scruton Limited Maxwell House, Riccall Grange, King Rudding Lane, Riccall, York YO19 6QL Tel: 01757 249799

Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552

Providence Foundry, Foxholes, Driffield, E. Yorkshire YO25 3QQ Tel: 01262 470221

Bellard Court, Platts Lane, Duddon, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 0EU www.farmingmonthly.co.uk Tel: 01829 749391

Nigel Quinn (AMS) Limited 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston Lancashire PR4 6JR Tel/Fax: 01704 822272 Mobile: 07973 519491 www.nigelquinnams.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Machinery

Ditches: No last ditch attempt With harvest over and autumn/winter upon us it’s the perfect time to look at the state of field ditches, especially as poorly maintained ditches will negatively affect the yield of the land during the year ahead. ome ditch systems lay untouched, some for decades, but let ditches fall into disrepair and they’ll provide no benefit whatsoever, resulting in disappointing crops and decreased productivity of the land, in addition to much wider land drainage implications.

In an attempt to improve the state of our country’s ditches, land drainage experts at William Morfoot Ltd are working with farmers to troubleshoot simple pitfalls and indicate how and where improvements can be made.

Justin Morfoot, Technical Director at William Morfoot, comments: “With harvest out of the way, it’s an ideal time to investigate what’s happening around field boundaries. The cleared fields allow the hedge cutters in to carry out the annual trim on field margins and uncover what lies beneath, usually ditches”.

“Ditch systems are an essential piece of infrastructure on many farms, transferring surplus drainage water away from blocks of land. This water usually enters the ditch systems through land drainage pipes or from natural seepage through the subsoil.

Ditches are vital to maintain an element of ‘freeboard’ between the ground levels in the

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field and the height of the ground water – simply put, a well maintained ditch is essential to regulate the height of the water table”.

Problems arise when foliage and hedge trimmings from the field margins decay in the ditch beds. This causes the ditch to silt up over time and as a result, the water table rises and the adjoining fields get wetter.

Some ditch maintenance systems are simply not up to scratch and as a result, farmers and landowners are experiencing problems with their crop. It’s only after these systems get to breaking point that action is taken, but William Morfoot Ltd is working with its clients to use correctly maintained ditches as a preventative method of keeping wider problems at bay.

Ditches are a vital, yet often overlooked, tool in modern day agriculture and their presence should ensure that the valuable crops grown within fields today are given

optimum conditions in which to thrive.

Simple observations can identify when ditch maintenance work is required.

Troublesome areas to look out for include: - Drain outfalls which have become submerged beneath the ditch water level - Stagnant water running through a ditch - Noticeable build up of silt - A high water level within the ditch.

- Crops performing badly - Machinery getting stuck - Fields being unusually wet If the ditch exhibits any of these symptoms speak to a reputable contractor who can sort out the ditches and, if necessary, address any additional land drainage issues. Ditch systems work best when they are regularly maintained with the old adage of ‘a little and often’ holding true for this important part of farm infrastructure.

Regular attention to the field boundary hedges to permit the monitoring of ditches, along with well maintained ditch systems will quickly increase the productivity of land and will enable fields, and therefore crops, to perform better year on year.

JC Machinery attends 35th Anniversary of Vredo Open days in Holland enjoyed by sole UK distributor. utch agricultural and grassland machinery manufacturer Vredo recently marked a double celebration; 35 years of manufacturing Vredo Overseeders and 25 years of producing slurry equipment.

The anniversary was celebrated with two open days at their Head Quarters in Dodewaard, Holland; Thursday 20th September was attended by importers and dealers, followed by a demonstration day for end users and suppliers on Friday 21st.

Director Hans de Vree and his team welcomed guests from across the globe including John Campey, whose company JC Machinery is the sole UK distributor of Vredo Seeders. He paid tribute to the company’s achievements: “We are delighted to be here to celebrate Vredo’s 35th Anniversary.” Said John “We have always been impressed with the professionalism displayed by the team at Vredo. The company has a genuine interest in the characteristics and vagaries of the

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UK agricultural sector and leads the way in the expansion and development of grassland maintenance techniques for farmers and contractors.”

Vredo had already started producing the now famous Vredo Overseeders in the 1970’s. That initial well-designed technology of 2 sharp discs which cut a Vshaped slit in the ground and precisely places grass seed into it, is a still a winner today.

54 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

The Vredo Agri series has an excellent reputation in the global agricultural market. These heavy duty but precise constructed machines are a must for every contractor who wants to offer a total package for grassland rejuvenation. Whether in spring, after heavy winters, or following the first silage cut, it is necessary to renovate and direct overseed grassland areas to create a new and healthy sward.

The new wide Vredo Agri Twin series has the capability to overseed all grassland areas at the right time, throughout the year.

For further information or a demonstration please contact John Campey at J C Machinery Tel: 01260 224568 or Mobile: 07736 953143 email info@jcmachinery.co or visit www.jcmachinery.co

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Machinery

New triple deck mowers A cut above the rest go far and wide

Kubota groundcare machines prove invaluable.

Cost efficient wide area mowing without compromising cut finish quality. essex ProLine RMX roller mowers have been setting new standards in roller mower design for many years. Now the new triple deck mowers offer the ultimate in wide area mowing, with the significant advantages of cost-efficiency without compromising cut finish quality.

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“They also stripe the grass for a premium finish” The new-generation RMX-560 and RMX-680 are the ideal choice for councils, local authority contractors, sports complexes and other large amenity areas. All the features and benefits of the widely used Wessex ProLine RMX range have been incorporated into one triple deck machine, to reduce mowing time and increase output and profitability.

Requiring no electro-hydraulics, and with no electric clutches, these professional roller mowers will leave a finish equal to a cylinder mower on fine turf, at a fraction of the cost. The patented transmission system allows wings

to be engaged and disengaged whilst in work, without a clutch mechanism. They offer versatility too. With independent wing control they are operational with one wing lifted and the folding wings can cut gradients from -30° to +30° with the middle deck remaining on the ground. All the decks have independent float and the patented linkage system allows the rear deck to follow the direction of travel, to minimise tyre and roller scuffing. Turf tyres are also used for minimum ground compaction and independent suspension is incorporated for smooth road travel.

Each deck on the triple mower has full width rollers at the front and rear that restrict airflow, creating a suction beneath the deck chamber in which the uncut grass is sucked up by the blades, leaving a superb quality cut at high speeds. There are double taper roller bearings in all rollers and they also stripe the grass for a premium finish.

The RMX triple mowers are available in 5.6m and 6.8m working widths and, as with all the RMX roller mowers, servicing and maintenance is easy, substantially reducing costs compared to an equivalent width cylinder mower.

Available for delivery in spring 2013 the machines come in the new Wessex livery, celebrating 50 years of quality manufacturing in Britain.

For further information contact Broadwood International on 01420 478111 or visit www.broadwoodintl.co.uk

56 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

imon Davies is making good use of his stable of Kubota workhorses on the family farm in the New Forest where his wife keeps competition horses at their equestrian complex covering 30 acres.

Mr Davies admits that he ‘doesn’t get too involved with the horses’, and his priority is to ensure that paddocks, lawns and other grassed areas are maintained in immaculate condition.

Five acres of ornamental lawn around the lake are cut to a top quality finish using the Kubota G23 ride-on rotary mower. Using a 23hp Kubota three-cylinder ETVCS

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water-cooled diesel engine, the mower offers plenty of power to ensure a clean, smooth cut.

“The finish is exceptional, and the mower is able to cut and collect the clippings on the first pass regardless of conditions, which was not the case with our previous machine,” comments Mr Davies. “I really like the large collector which fills completely to its 530 litre capacity, so I am not always running backwards and forwards to empty it. It also tips hydraulically so I don’t have to leave the seat.”

Cutting at a fixed height of 2in with two passes at right angles to each other, the G23 gives the

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| Machinery freshly mown lawn an immaculate, smooth appearance, he points out. But it is also versatile. “In autumn it will pick up and collect all the fallen leaves,” he says.

Clippings and debris are mixed with stable muck, making an excellent compost.

Mr Davies also picks out the G23’s ease of operation for praise: “The hydrostatic transmission means that you can shuttle backwards and forwards while cutting, and the comfort and driveability is excellent.”

The lawns are relatively flat, but some parts of the land are steeper, and a Kubota B2530 25hp compact tractor is fitted with a cutting deck to tackle the banks and other areas requiring a less fine finish.

While the horses take care of much of the grass in the paddocks, regular topping is an essential job to maintain the quality of the sward and discourage any weed growth. For this, Mr Davies uses an 8ft Kubota roller mower on one of his larger tractors.

“We achieve a superb striped finish in the paddocks with the roller mower, and along with harrowing, this really does keep the grazing in an ideal condition.”

The 59hp L5740 and 85hp M8540 are used for a variety of estate management tasks, and having a choice of horsepower at his disposal allows Mr Davies to

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complete harrowing and rolling 10 separate paddocks on 30 acres in a weekend, outside his full-time job.

Careful specification has also proved important – the versatile L5740 is fitted with a front end loader for moving muck or bales and is shod on turf tyres to protect the clay soil.

Last but not least, the Kubota RTV900 utility vehicle is a vital member of the team. The horses are housed in a machinery-friendly American barn, so stables can be mucked out directly into its 500kg capacity load bed.

“The RTV is constantly in use for shuttling around the land, shifting materials and even for ‘poo picking’ the paddocks – we’ve got a sweeper, but it is so much more convenient to shovel droppings straight onto the RTV’s load bed,” explains Mr Davies.

The entire fleet is serviced annually by local dealer Longham Garden Machinery, and Mr Davies comments that this is one benefit of sticking to one tried and tested brand.

“Longham Garden Machinery overhaul all the machinery on the farm rather than us having to take individual items to different dealers, and they give us excellent service and back-up. Plus, I’ve found that it is really good kit – those bigger tractors in particular will be around forever!”

The versatile RTV900 Kubota UTV can turn its hand to just about any task. he Kubota 22hp RTV900 delivers unrivalled comfort, safety and economy. Thanks to its unique drivetrain arrangement, the RTV900 is a utility vehicle that goes where other utility vehicles can't. Outstanding value for money, and built to endure years of gruelling punishment, the RTV900 will take you comfortably through the most difficult terrain.

With features like an advanced suspension system that offers ample ground clearance, the RTV900 will give a safe and comfortable ride over any terrain.

Utilising the same technology as Kubota's world renowned tractors, the rugged, versatile RTV900 all terrain utility vehicle delivers outstanding performance for an exceptional drive, whether work or pleasure. Meticulously developed, the RTV900's 22 HP, 3cylinder indirect injected, liquid cooled diesel engine is fuel proficient and minimises emissions for a cleaner drive.

Combining an innovative three range Variable Hydrostatic Transmission (VHT) as standard, with in-board wet-type disc brakes, the RTV900 gives outstanding climbing ability when climbing slopes, as well as dynamic braking for safer descent and automatic power boost. Key features also include power steering and independent front and semi rear suspension. The chunky tyres provide plenty of traction, but without marking turf if used in a

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groundcare environment.

Ergonomically designed to maximise safety and comfort, the RTV900's advanced features including a quick read instrument panel and conveniently positioned controls to reduce operator fatigue for longer working hours. The bench seat in the spacious cockpit means that up to two people can travel together, and the windscreen and roof give protection from the elements while allowing them to jump on or off quickly at the work site.

The RTV900 is highly manoeuvrable, but still has a good size bed with a half-tonne capacity, coupled with a hydraulic tip to easily move materials around like sand and stone. It can also pull a trailer and has an optional front hitch.

Also available is a camouflage version together and a street legal special variant equipped with bucket seats and a host of additional EC-compliant safety features.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 57

| Diet Feeders

Carrs Billington Agriculture (Sales) Ltd

Robson Tractors Ltd

Highwood

Montgomery Way, Rosehill Ind. Est. Carlisle, Cumbria CA1 2UY Tel: 01228 520212 www.carrs-billington.com

Ings Lane, Carlton Husthwaite, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 2BP Tel: 01845 501602 www.robsontractors.co.uk

Yeovil Branch: 01935 478877 Dorset Branch: 01305 266058 Shepton Mallet Branch: 01749 841651 service@highwood-ag.co.uk sales@highwood-ag.co.uk parts@highwood-ag.co.uk

58 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

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| Machinery

Case IH reveals upcoming combine updates A redesigned cab and new unloading technology on Case IH Axial-Flow combines for 2013. ase IH unveils new features on Axial-Flow combines for 2013 Cab revisions create the ultimate operator environment.

New unloading auger technology improves trailer filling accuracy Case IH has unveiled new features on its latest Axial-Flow combines for 2013, including a redesigned cab and a folding auger with an industry-exclusive pivoting spout option, helping to make these high-output machines even more productive. Guided by feedback from farmers and contractors, Case IH has taken the largest and quietest cab in the industry and made it even better.

Customers can also upgrade to an advanced ‘Luxury’ cab with an even higher level of specification.

“Our new, redesigned cabin has advanced even further to set the industry standard in convenience, comfort and ergonomics, and provides the operator with an office in the field,” says August von Eckardstein, marketing manager for Axial-Flow combines in Europe.

New cab features A slim Multifunction Propulsion Handle puts all key controls within a finger’s reach and an upgraded right-hand console with simple ergonomic controls and slide rail allows for adjustment of the AFS display, plus a cup-holder.

Convenient storage locations have been added throughout and feature brushed-chrome styling in the Luxury cab.

Operators can keep in touch with an iPad or iPod connector, and a co-drivers seat opens to reveal a convenient, portable electric refrigerator to keep food and drinks cool.

The operator’s seat has been lowered and has more seat travel giving greater legroom while a red leather Luxury cab seat option provides greater comfort. The infinitely-adjustable steering wheel provides maximum visibility without impairing the cutterbar view. Air ride suspension is standard on all 30 Series combines, while a semi-active air suspension seat is optional.

Unloading Made Simpler New auger options make onthe-go unloading more comfortable and safer with wide headers, including a new High Capacity folding 8.8m auger for the widest headers. The new 8.8 m auger option is fully cab controlled and folds out to 95 degrees for clear visibility when unloading, access to the rear service deck is unaffected when folded and the auger is within the width of the combine side panels for easier

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transport and storage.

The new industry-exclusive pivoting spout option is available for all High Capacity unloading auger lengths. The operator can accurately adjust the grain stream by simply using the controls on the propulsion handle to position the spout precisely instead of repositioning the entire tractor and grain trailer. The risk of the tractor and trailer spilling grain or coming into contact with the header is reduced and, when laying straw swaths for baling, the tractor need not run on the rows.

The electrically-controlled auger spout boosts harvest efficiency by allowing perfect grain trailer filling.

The new spout moves the grain stream by approximately 60cm to 90cm, while also providing a spillproof grain saver feature. When the unloading auger is disengaged, the spout automatically and quickly pivots upwards to prevent any grain from dribbling out. In addition to this, it allows grain to be directed straight downwards to reduce wind-blow of light crop types.

Powered grain tank covers, controlled from the cab, reduce downtime when preparing for transport or harvest.

New Enhanced Chopper and Chaff Spreader Case IH chopper packages have been upgraded to include incab adjustment of the chopper counter knife bank with knife positions adjustable in four steps of 0% to 100% insertion. It is now possible to switch the combine from ‘chop’ to ‘swath’ in under a minute. No covers need to be opened and there is no need for the operator to work in the dust.

If the emergency stop button on top of the multi-function handle is pressed, the counter knife bank will fully retract, providing an additional measure to protect the chopper and counter knife against foreign objects. Less need to reset the counterknives manually means chop quality and even spreading are maintained. An enhanced chaff spreader option, which includes in-cab adjustment of the spread distance and distribution is available.

Efficient Power, Efficient Operation From the feeding system to the patented Case IH AFX rotor with its concentric rotor cage design, Axial-Flow combines continue to create smooth crop flow, improving throughput and putting more high-quality grain in the tank.

“Case IH has been continuously improving the Axial-Flow with the AFX rotor and fuel-efficient Case IH FPT Tier 4 SCR engines, always

setting the trend as a leader in harvesting,” says von Eckardstein. “Overall, the simple and reliable Axial-Flow design, with fewer moving parts, helps producers stay in the field over a wider range of crop conditions, helping protect both yields and quality.”

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Machinery

New John Deere forage harvesters for 2013 Shown at Livestock 2012. nnovative kernel processing technology is a major feature of John Deere's new 7080 Series selfpropelled forage harvesters, which will be available for the 2013 season. The expanded range of seven models, including an additional 440hp machine, will line up as follows:

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Previous Models 7250 - 380hp 7350 - 480hp 7450 - 560hp 7550 - 625hp 7750 - 625hp 7950 - 812hp

“Other options on these new foragers include the ProDrive hydrostatic transmission with full anti-slip control, automatic diff-lock and automatic park brake, AutoTrac assisted steering and an automatic spout positioning system with nine settings.”

The new KernelStar multi-crop kernel processor is designed to enhance productivity in the field, as well as forage quality for livestock and biogas producers.

This state-of the-art concept is based on a patented bevel disc design, which provides more intensive treatment of the kernels and an improved material flow compared to straight-edged disc designs or conventional cylindrical rollers. The new system also reduces the power requirement for the same processing output.

KernelStar features contoured

intermeshing discs, which provide almost three times the effective processing width compared to previous systems. The result is significantly improved kernel processing, with visible improvements to forage quality in a wide range of crop conditions and a significant reduction of overlength crop particles.

New Models for 2013 7180 - 380hp 7280 - 440hp 7380 - 490hp 7480 - 560hp 7580 - 625hp 7780 - 625hp (wide body) 7980 - 812hp (wide body) Designed for high capacity harvesting in grass, maize and wholecrop, this newly styled forager range continues to use John Deere’s infinitely variable length of cut (IVLOC) transmission to enable operators to change chop length on the move. A new five-speed LOC transmission is standard on the 7180 and 7280 foragers only, and retains most of the IVLOC features.

The 7080 Series foragers are powered by John Deere’s latest single fuel PowerTech Plus Stage 3b/Interim Tier 4 engines – 9-litre on the smallest 7180 model, and 13.5-litre on the 7280 to 7780 machines – which feature improved torque and power characteristics, and the same exhaust gas recirculation and variable geometry turbocharger technology as that used on the company’s latest R Series tractors.

The top of the range 7980 model continues to use a Cummins 19litre Stage 2/Tier 2 engine.

John Deere’s intelligent engine speed management system helps operators to maximise the

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foragers’ performance both on the road and in the field. Headland and Harvest fuel saver modes have been proven to reduce fuel consumption by over 18 per cent, by optimising engine rpm to improve efficiency. The 1100-litre fuel tank will now be standard on all models.

In addition to the basic range, i Series foragers will also be equipped as standard with the established, integrated ‘intelligent’ package of precision farming technology. This includes HarvestLab constituent sensing, which measures dry matter and other crop constituents in real time, a GreenStar 2630 display, Harvest Monitor and Harvest Doc software, a StarFire 3000 receiver with SF2 signal (offering +/-5cm accuracy for yield mapping), and AutoLOC. AutoLOC provides automatic adjustment of the length of cut depending on the dry matter content of the crop being harvested, based on settings programmed in by the operator on the in-cab GreenStar display.

Dura Line wearing parts are also offered across the full 7080 Series

self-propelled forage harvester range. These feature a unique, high-tech coating that means they last up to four times as long as standard wearing parts. The parts cover the entire crop flow channel, and their extremely smooth surface means there is minimum resistance to the flow of material, leading to higher throughputs and lower fuel consumption.

Other options on these new foragers include the ProDrive hydrostatic transmission with full anti-slip control, automatic diff-lock and automatic park brake, AutoTrac assisted steering and an automatic spout positioning system with nine settings.

A full range of headers are available in addition to the standard 3m grass pick-up. These include the Kemper four to 12-row (3 to 9m) rotary maize headers, the 4.8 and 6.2m Zurn Profi Cut wholecrop headers, and the CRL coppice header for harvesting short-rotation coppice for biofuels.

For further information visit www.johndeere.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| DIet Feeders

Andrew Marwood Ltd

Cranworth Farm Services

Wharfedale Tractors Ltd

Unit 2, Full Sutton Ind. Estate, Full Sutton, Yorkshire YO41 1HS Tel 01759 372888

Cranworth Common, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 7SX Tel 01362 820077

Unit 1, Riffa Business Park, Harrogate Road, Pool-in-Wharfedale, North Yorkshire LS21 2XB Tel 01132 841117

Lyndon Tucker

Stewart Morley

Oldwalls Garage, Llanrhidian, Swansea SA1 1HA Tel 01792 391007

The Workshop, Bonds Farm Morley Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6BY Tel 01253 799124 Mob 07802 638385

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 61

| ATV

P & D Engineering Fleet Lane, Bredon, Tewkesbury, Gloucester Gloucestershire, GL20 7EF Tel: 01684 772912

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

Day & Coles (Agricultural) Limited Park Farm Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Tel: 01933 673900 Fax: 01933 675858

E.A. Clayton Limited Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton On Tees, Cleveland TS21 1EB Tel: 01740 630254 Fax: 01740 631097

Hayward United Farmers Limited Heliport Site, Ellough, Beccles, Suffolk NR24 7XD Tel: 01502 475111

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

62 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

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

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

TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310

Cranworth Farm Services High Common, Cranworth, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 7SX Tel: 01362 820391

Yorkshire Handlers Limited Unit 4-5, Fryors Close, Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel: 01904 489988

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

Fax: 01362 820077

Fax: 01904 489061

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

New Holland introduces the Roll Baler range A new series of professional fixed chamber round balers. he new Roll Baler range of heavy duty fixed chamber round balers is set to become the default choice for professional baling operations.

The three model line-up, featuring the standard Roll Baler 125, and two combination baler-wrapper models: the Roll Baler 125 Combi and the Roll Baler 135 Ultra, is set to redefine the benchmark in terms of bale density and wrapping flexibility. Moreover, the sleek modern design and premium construction further enhance the range’s appeal.

“The heavy duty Roll Baler has been engineered by design to offer outstanding in-field performance, uniformly dense bales, efficient road transport and bullet proof reliability. Everything professional contractors and large scale dairy farmers are looking for to boost their productivity.” Stated Bob Hatz, head of Hay and Forage Product Management.

“Furthermore, the flagship Roll Baler completes New Holland’s round baler line up, alongside the standard BR6000, fixed chamber baler and the BR7000, variable chamber models.”

Efficient feeding and precision chopping improve profitability and bale quality The 2.1m pick-up working width for both Roll Baler 125 models and the 2.2m pick-up working width for the Roll Baler 135 model ensure that every last piece of valuable crop is efficiently transferred into the chamber, even when working in heavy first cut silage or dense straw swaths produced by today’s high capacity combines. The five tine bars maintain positive contact with the crop and provide an even flow to prevent clogging. The 470mm diameter rotor features 10mm thick tines for exceptional reliability and durability to further extend machine life.

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Precision engineered rollers ensure uniform bale formation and enhance machine reliability The Roll Baler range features 18 rollers each with a 200mm diameter, for accurate and uniform bale formation. Their aggressive profile maintains contact with the crop, independent of crop type and condition, for dense core formation and uniform filling.

Overall machine longevity is enhanced, as the high number of rollers ensures that bale weight is equally spread across the entire circumference of the chamber during formation. It also eliminates excessive loading points. Roller working life has been extended, thanks to a highly wear-resistant material used in their construction.

This is perfect for operations that work extensively in particularly abrasive crops.

Flexible wrapping with both net and plastic film options Contractors can offer their customers even greater flexibility as both the Roll Baler 125 Combi and the Roll Baler 135 Ultra are compatible with both traditional net wrap and state of the art film wrap. Film wrapping offers a whole host of benefits including an improved bale oxygen barrier: this facilitates the fermentation process for higher quality forage Furthermore, once the initial film layer has been applied, during the wrapping process, the overall cost of wrap is significantly lower. This is because uniform side and end wrapping can be achieved in a shorter time with a reduced quantity of wrap.

Intuitive monitor for fingertip control The dedicated bale monitor features intuitive impulse contact buttons for true fingertip control.

An easy to read display enables operators to monitor and control a whole host of parameters

including bale density, PTO speed, net/film indication, manual and automatic tying selection and even the number of wraps per bale.

Contractors can provide accurate job reports courtesy of the bale counter which can store up to 50 individual customers’ bale counts, and farmers can accurately monitor the yield per field.

Precision hydraulic operation improves baling efficiency When used in conjunction with a tractor featuring load sensing hydraulics, the Roll Baler automatically controls the hydraulic flow, using only the precise volume required to maintain pick-up performance and pressure.

Exceptional stability and tyre configurations reduce compaction and increase transport comfort The Roll Baler range’s low centre of gravity guarantees outstanding stability even when working on the most extreme gradients and side slopes. Owners can tailor the configuration of their Roll Baler to suit their needs courtesy of the tyre offering. All tyre configurations comply with the stringent three metre transport width restriction. Super wide, 500 x 22.5 flotation tyres are available on the Roll Baler 125 that reduce compaction to facilitate valuable regrowth, as well as enhancing traction in boggy conditions. The 55/50R17 tyres

are available on both the Roll Baler 125 Combi and on the Roll Baler 135 Ultra for a silky smooth transport ride.

Easy servicing for reduced downtime New Holland knows that during tight baling windows, every second spent in the yard is a second lost in the field. That is why the Roll Baler has been designed to offer the ultimate in easy servicing. The single piece, light weight front shield provides easy access to all servicing and lubrication points. The centralised automatic greasing system assures long life as does the automatic oiling system which continuously oils all chains.

Exactly what it says on the shielding New Holland has applied its evolved numbering strategy to the Roll Baler range of fixed chamber round balers to make their performance immediately obvious to customers. The Roll Baler highlights the use of roller technology to form the bale. The numbers, either 125 or 135 denote the bale diameter in centimetres.

‘Combi’ indicates a combination baler-wrapper and the 135 ‘Ultra’ emphasises this model’s heavy duty baling and wrapping usage profile.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 63

| ATV

BRP adds to its Can-Am side-by-side line-up Power steering and all-new colour updates introduced on Commander 1000 X Limited models.

RP has recently enhanced its award-winning Can-Am Commander side-by-side vehicle line-up for 2013 with the addition of Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) and two striking colour schemes for both its Commander 1000 X and 1000 Limited packages. The Can-Am Commander side-by-side vehicles deliver even more on the Can-Am pledge to produce enthusiastinspired vehicles with cutting-edge design and meaningful innovation by offering two proven engine options, five overall platforms, including a new DPS package, and industry-leading versatility.

"The addition of DPS was a logical

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progression that blends well with our long-standing belief to offer vehicles that appeal to the end user’s brand enthusiasm and also produce the most powerful, capable and comfortable products in the industry,” said Yves Leduc, vice-president and general manager, North America. “The new Can-Am Commander side-by-side vehicles with DPS, which continue to lead the industry in terms of overall innovation, appeal, convenience and versatility, have raised industry standards once again and will enable our dealers to better achieve overall customer satisfaction.”

This new Can-Am Commander DPS package takes the base Commander and adds the

Dynamic Power Steering system with Visco-Lok QE (quicker engaging), and 27-inch (68.5-cm) Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14inch (35.5-cm) cast aluminum wheels. Returning for 2013 are the XT and Limited packages as well, adding such features like a 4,000pound (1,814-kg) WARN winch, half-windshield, premium wheels and tires and an entertainment system with integrated Garmin touchscreen GPS. BRP offers two Rotax V-Twin EFI engines (800R or 1000), which give a key ingredient to the CanAm Commander formula: power. It is,

however, the consumer-friendly features like the exclusive DualLevel cargo box, comfortable seats and ample room for two adult passengers that complete the overall package.

"Delivering a vehicle for the global market can be a challenge, but BRP meets this challenge head on with a revised Commander line-up that improves upon the Can-Am philosophy of ‘The Ride Says It All’,” said Chris Dawson, vice-president and general manager, International division. “With the addition of DPS to the vehicle, it makes the CanAm Commander side-by-side vehicle even more the versatile choice in the market for the consumer.”

In a crowded market, TGB makes a good impression Though a relative newcomer to the UK, the Taiwanese manufacturer is so confident of the brand’s quality it offers a 2 year parts & labour warranty for extra peace of mind. t may be a relatively new name on the UK ATV market, but TGB quads are certainly making a lasting impression on those who try them.

It is already the choice of many local authorities and commercial operators throughout the UK. Built in Taiwan over the past 30 years, TGB

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quads are setting new standards in ATV technology, with extremely high levels of specification and equipment as standard.

Superb ride and build quality ensure that all TGB models offer comfort and peace of mind to all users. All TGB quads are fully road legal as standard. Also as standard are front and rear racks, towbar, trailer socket, and 12 volt takeoffs. Another advantage is that all quads have a two year parts and labour warranty adding further peace of mind to potential customers.

TGB design and manufacture their own power units for all

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products in their range. 300, 400, 460, and 550cc engines all offer high torque delivery coupled to automatic transmissions, with low range, selectable 4x4, diff locks, disc brakes etc. TGB ATV’s are available nationwide through carefully selected ATV specialists, who can offer expert knowledge on selecting the right machine for you. Along with advice on equipment available for your TGB, such as snow blades, gritters, cargo cases, etc.

All in all the TGB Blade utility series delivers unrivalled value for money. For more information about these incredible machines,

visit www.tgbatv.co.uk or contact your local TGB dealer.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Polaris and more at Saltex 2012 A full line-up, including electric models combined with the Polaris 0% finance offer proved a popular draw. his year at Saltex Polaris Britain shared their stand with Goupil, the electric vehicle manufacturer acquired by Polaris’ US parent company in 2011.

The Goupil vehicles on show represented the range of electric commercial and light duty work products manufactured by the French based company.

Polaris’ own EV electric 4x4 version of their Ranger was a feature and was be put through its paces on the ever-popular Polaris off-road 4x4 track.

The hardest working, smoothest riding electric Side x Side operates cleanly and quietly with a 30hp/48V AC electric motor which is more efficient and extends its

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range up to 50 miles.

The off-road track was a major draw at the show and the Polaris Ranger Diesel also faced the challenge of the course, demonstrating the power of its ISO-mounted Yanmar diesel powerplant for low vibration and lower speed torque.

On the Polaris stand the very popular Ranger 400 Side x Side was seen with the Sportsman ATV models. The 500 Forest in green livery, the latest addition to the Polaris ATV family, features mirrors and indicators as standard, an automatic Polaris Variable Transmission gearbox with low ratio range, all wheel shaft drive and a permanent 2500lb winch.

The Sportsman XP850 Stealth, in

black livery, offers extreme performance with an 850 Twin EFI engine, the power to tow 680.4kg (1500lb) and carry a total of 163.3kg (360lb) on racks. The Sportsman 55 x2 is a versatile ATV which can switch from 1-up work mode to 2-up play mode in seconds, with a new passenger seat design for added comfort.

The 6x6 version, the Big Boss 800,

provides on demand true six-wheel drive for unmatched traction.

Polaris currently offers a twoyear 0% finance deal on all new machines. For further information contact Polaris Britain on 0800 915 6720 or visit www.polarisbritain.com *Offer available until 31st December

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 65

| ATV

Suzuki ATV incentives

JCB WORKMAX 800 D

Suzuki launches free workwear kit and courtesy ATV initiative.

The tough all-rounder hoping to replace your ATV.

s part of their latest campaign called 'The Comfort Zone', Suzuki has announced two exciting new offers for their customers to take advantage of, including a free branded workwear kit and a new courtesy ATV scheme.

Any customers that buy a new Suzuki utility ATV between now and the end of March 2013 will automatically qualify for an exclusive free workwear kit*. The kit consists of a set of high-quality Suzuki branded overalls and bodywarmer, perfect for wearing around the farm, estate or stables.

The other pioneering initiative from Suzuki is their new courtesy ATV scheme. This offers customers the use of a new Suzuki ATV when any utility ATV is taken to an authorised dealer for service or repair work, regardless of the make and model. The courtesy ATV scheme has been introduced to help minimise down time and to keep businesses operating smoothly while their ATV is serviced.

Gareth Lumsdaine, Sales and Marketing Manager ATV & Marine, Suzuki GB PLC, commented, "The free workwear kit and courtesy ATV initiatives are designed with our customers in mind and demonstrate that we understand the nature of their businesses. The new offers are in addition to the 2 year warranty and free EASI rider training that comes with every new Suzuki ATV." For further information, please visit suzuki-atv.co.uk

he JCB WORKMAX 800 D – offers 600 kg (1323 lb) maximum payload and will appeal to a wide variety of sectors including estates and land management, golf courses, sports arenas, racecourses, local authorities, utilities, shows and events, equestrian centres, garden centres and nurseries, theme parks, zoos, leisure parks and rental.

Its launch extends the range which also includes the current WORKMAX 1000 D model 4x4, which is a heavy duty machine and the WORKMAX 6x4, which is suitable for fine turf applications such as sports fields and golf.

JCB began last year by announcing the switch to its WORKMAX branding to emphasise focus on work related applications performed increasingly more by utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) than rideon all terrain vehicles (ATVs).

The choice of a 784cc Yanmar diesel engine coupled to a twospeed CVT with Kevlar belt is a deliberate move to position the 800 D model in the middle of the growing mid-range UTV volume sector. The 4x4 drive plus selectable diff lock is electronic.

In keeping with JCB's other models, the 800 D cab has a flat checkplate floor for uninterrupted access from either side, and bench or bucket seats.

The steel-construction tipping cargo deck will take 400 kg.

Underneath there's a steel plate guard for major transmission components when engaged in unpredictable offroad environments such as forest tracks. Likewise, to protect the engine during wading the air intake is mounted as high as possible, waist-high inside the front stowage compartment.

Engine and CVT are positioned further forward than is the case on most UTVs. This is to achieve an optimum 50–50 weight distribution front to rear when fully laden. . .

Many accessories are available such as the sealed cab with stable doors, soft door or hard door options, beacon kit,

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66 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

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cab radio kit, bull bar, load bed liner, front tow hitch, interior mirror, work light kit, road light kit and hydraulic lift.

Alongside the 18 month product-design programme for the 800 D at the JCB Utility Products factory, Cheadle, Staffordshire, JCB has been extending its WORKMAX dealer network to encompass as wide a market coverage as possible. A new dealer appointment project has been underway throughout last year to add specialist ATV dealers to JCB's established network covering main-line construction equipment dealers, and also specialist agricultural equipment dealers who offer a wide range of products from JCB Landpower Ltd, such as the flagship JCB Fastrac tractor.

JCB Utility Products Sales Director Keith Hoskins says: “The breadth of JCB dealer coverage, plus the scope of their competences means we are in excellent shape to develop our UTV sales and focus on the new WORKMAX 800 D in particular.”

He added: “The utility vehicle concept is still relatively new in the UK and Europe and there are a number of untapped growth sectors we want to explore and develop. It's a product which can work alongside traditional JCB machines on construction sites, and equally the diverse nature of some farm equipment sectors present important opportunities.

We are also expanding our coverage through specialist ATV dealers because we see the professional user migrating to the 'sit-in and carry' concept rather than the exposed 'ride-on and tow' concept of the traditional 4x4 quad.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Rural crime partnership FARR more models due Honda works with police to tackle criminals in the country. Two new quads and a 400cc UTV model on the way. onda (UK) has recently loaned East Herts Rural Special Team one of TRX420 ATV and accessories with the aim of helping the force tackle and reduce rural crime in the area.

The ATV has been used daily in patrols in rural locations by Specials and regular officers, having a very positive effect - both in responding to incidents, and acting as a deterrent. Would-be criminals are put off by seeing the ATV and knowing what it’s capable of.

Since starting patrols in a particular area on the ATV, for example, complaints about crime and anti-social behaviour in that area have dropped significantly.

Additionally, at this year’s Sawbridgeworth Fayre the ATV enabled an officer to reach all areas of the park quickly and as a result assisted in the arrest of a wanted man.

Police teams also used the ATV at the GM crop protest in Rothamsted, Harpenden. The bike was used to patrol large areas of land which were

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cordoned off, and as a result, helped to prevent protestors from entering prohibited areas.

The partnership came about as the result of a discussion between East Herts farmers and rural crime officers at a Barn Meet earlier in the year where the idea of using an ATV to help patrol some of the areas of land which are inaccessible to normal 4x4 vehicles was debated.

Honda Authorised Dealer, Taylors Tools (based in Herts) has also donated the Rural Special Team a trailer for the ATV and will also look after servicing and maintenance.

“Rural crime is a big problem and we are very happy to support Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Rural Specials,” said Phil Webb – Head of Honda (UK) Power Equipment.

“These officers face many challenges in the course of their work, but despite everything that’s thrown at them, they do a fantastic job - all in their own time – and provide an essential service to rural communities.”

ARR All-Terrain Vehicles are pleased to announce we are releasing 3 new models in October 2012. These consist of a 300cc and 400cc Quad Bike, as well as a 400cc Utility Vehicle; all of which are supplied with a high/low range gearbox and benefiting from being road legal as standard. With prices starting from £3299.00 + VAT these new additions are very competitively priced and expected to be very popular.

We have very competitive

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finance deals arranged with UK Asset Finance. Please call us to discuss the options and costs of this.

Our dealer network throughout the UK is constantly increasing, so please visit our website – www.farruk.com. Here you will be able to see where your nearest dealer is and to find out further information on the products we at FARR can offer. Alternatively, contact our head office on 01392 444887.

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 67

| Motors

Honda (UK) announces prices for new CR-V New British built CR-V will be landing in dealerships in October. rices will start from a competitive £21,395 OTR for the entry level 2.0 iVTEC manual S grade 2WD model and rise to £30,995 for the top of the range 2.2 i-DTEC EX AWD with manual transmission.

The introduction of the 2WD allows the new CR-V to enter the market with a lower entry price, thus broadening the sales potential for this model going forward. Honda has also improved the specifications through the whole of the range, whilst still managing to keep costs in line with the third generation CR-V. The new fourth generation CR-V offers even greater quality, practicality and refinement than its predecessor and with environmental concerns of increasing importance, both the 2.0 i-VTEC and 2.2 i-DTEC engines emit significantly less CO2. Plus, for the first time in Europe, the new CR-V will be offered with a choice of two- and four-wheel drive.

Customers still get the Tardislike interior. With the rear seats in place the boot capacity is a spacious 589 litres and this extends to 1669 litres when the

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seats are down. The practicality is further enhanced by the addition of keyless entry and power tailgate (standard on EX trim level), which makes it easier for owners to further maximise the boot space.

Generously Equipped Specifications The new CR-V will be available with four generously equipped trim levels S, SE, SR and EX. The entry-level S features 5-inch Intelligent Multi Info Display (iMID), driver power lumbar support, Idle Stop, Dual Zone Climate Control, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, fabric interior, Hill Start Assist, Steering wheel stereo controls, USB/iPod auxiliary input, one touch folding rear seats. Plus a CD tuner and 4 speaker stereo, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Antilock braking system (ABD), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) and central locking.

The next trim level is SE which includes all the equipment found in S but adds a leather steering wheel and gearshifter, rain sensing auto wipers, dusk sensing auto lights, auto dim rear view mirror,

front and rear parking sensors, rear view parking camera, onetouch power windows (also key fob operated), electrically folding door mirrors, 6-speaker stereo, Bluetooth Hands Free Telephone, front fog lights, tweeters and a CAT1 alarm The next step up is the SR featuring 1/2 leather and Alcantara interior, heated front seats, ambient lighting for driver/passenger footwell and doors, premium audio, DAB Radio, colour-coded roof rails, privacy

glass, Bi-HID lights with Auto Levelling, dynamic cornering lights, High Beam Support System, headlight washers, 18inch alloy wheels, passenger power lumbar support and manual passenger seat height adjustment The EX tops off the range with standard goodies such as smart entry, leather interior, power tailgate, electric driver seat with memory function, panoramic glass roof and integrated satellite navigation.

Ford reveals Ecosport at Paris Motor Show All new SUV combines flexibility and space with small car practicality. ord of Europe has revealed the all-new EcoSport SUV at the Paris Motor Show. Ford EcoSport combines the agility, affordability and fuel efficiency of a small car with the flexibility and spaciousness of an SUV. All-new EcoSport is based on Ford’s global B-segment platform and will go on sale for European customers within 18 months. It will be equipped with the awardwinning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and will line up alongside all-new Kuga and later Ford Edge, a larger and more premium vehicle already popular in North America.

“Ford EcoSport combines the value, quality and fuel efficiency of Fiesta, with the exciting look and feel of a modern SUV,” said Nick Collins, Ford’s global B car vehicle line director. “Its stylish design should prove a tempting addition for European customers to Ford’s B segment range, which already includes the innovative B-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle and the new Fiesta.”

All-new EcoSport is the first global Ford to be developed

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entirely in South America and was launched in Brazil this month.

Introduced in 2003, the groundbreaking first model established a new segment there and has gone on to sell more than 700,000 units in the region.The new model is expected to help drive further growth for Ford in both India and China when it is introduced in those key markets in 2013.

In Europe, the all-new EcoSport will be equipped with Ford’s 1.0litre EcoBoost petrol engine, the 2012 “International Engine of the Year”, which combines surprising performance with excellent efficiency. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine first went on sale in the Focus this year before being introduced to all-new B-MAX, with models including C-MAX, Grand C-MAX and all-new Mondeo also due to receive this innovative 3cylinder powertrain. European EcoSport customers will also be able to specify a best-in-class diesel engine.

The distinctive and aerodynamic Ford EcoSport will feature a large front grille; slim,

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detailed headlights; and cladding on the side sills and bumpers. It will be equipped with Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system, which uses voice-activation technology to enable owners to answer phone calls and select music from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB. Ford SYNC also includes Emergency Assistance, which

directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region.

EcoSport will offer a comprehensive package of driver assistance technologies including anti-lock brake system, Electronic Stability Program, and Hill Launch Assist.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

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October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 69

| Motors

SsangYong Korando Sports get set for UK launch The vehicle was first presented as the SUT-1 (sport utility) concept at international motor shows in 2011, and in production ready form at this year’s Geneva Motor show. orando Sports brings a new level of refinement to the market place, blending the suspension, engine and cabin finesse of a passenger car, the silhouette, space and seating for five that’s typical of a double cab, and the rugged workmanlike ability of a commercial pick-up.

This new Korando Sports will appeal to those who need a working vehicle, the practicality of 4 wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 2.3 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car.

Whether towing a work trailer or horsebox, ferrying the crew to site or the children to school, Korando Sports will meet a range of different demands.

“This is more a passenger car with pick-up versatility,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “Consequently, it offers refinements that few of our competitors can match.

“SsangYong has a growing reputation for building extremely competent off-road vehicles, and the new Korando Sports draws on this pedigree. It’s an honest, reliable and highly capable vehicle yet extremely well equipped, and pound for pound will outclass many more expensive rivals.”

Added Steve Gray, marketing and communications director: “To be able to launch an all-new model into the UK so soon after the Korando crossover is great news for us as the importer and our rapidly expanding dealer network, but more importantly for the growing number of motorists who increasingly appreciate the value of the SsangYong brand.

Delivering both performance and economy, the Korando Sports is powered by the latest e-XDi active diesel engine. This new 2 litre engine provides maximum power of 155PS and peak torque of 360Nm delivered between

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1,500rpm and 2,800rpm providing ample performance both on and off road, whatever the task.

The fresh exterior design has been styled to reflect SsangYong’s modern and efficient new look.

From the front, it communicates a dynamic yet sophisticated appearance, featuring a mesh grille, trapezoidal bumper and stylish black headlight bezels to provide a premium touch. In profile, the sharp belt line runs to the rear bumper emphasising a sleek, sporty stance, while from the rear the wide glass area affords excellent rearward visibility.

Inside the spacious cabin there’s a light and airy environment thanks to the large front, side and rear windows, while the careful blending of black and metallic finishes along with an LED illuminated instrument cluster has created a smart and refined interior.

With spacious accommodation for five adults - the rear passenger seats can even be reclined by up to 29 degrees - air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity ensure comfort and convenience.

There are two models in the range, and while the SX is already comprehensively equipped, the EX comes with the luxury touch of leather upholstery with seat warmers, powered driver’s seat, distinctive 18” alloy wheels, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors, and rear parking sensors. A 6 speed automatic transmission with cruise control is also available as an option.

As with every SsangYong, practicality is at the core of the new pick-up’s appeal. A large, flat rear deck provides a 2.04m2 load area complete with load deck liner and anchor points. An optional rigid hard top is available to provide weather protection and security to the load area, and

70 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

comes with a hinged rear window that closes behind the tailgate so that the car’s central locking secures and protects the contents. Styled and colour matched to complement the rest of the car, the result is a neat design that ensures form and function, and not the ‘tacked on’ afterthought of many retro-fit hard tops. There will also be a range of other accessories available from launch including two further load covers.

Constructed on a separate frame chassis, the mark of a serious off-roader, the new Korando Sports offers a very rigid structure to help protect occupants in the event of a collision. Accident avoidance and a sure footed performance off road are also enhanced by the electronic stability programme (ESP) - a rare feature on most pick-ups but standard on Korando Sports - active roll-over protection (ARP) and hill start assist (HSA).

As with all models in the SsangYong range, the new Korando Sports is covered by a best-in-class 5 year limitless mileage warranty.

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.

All the major mechanical components 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 driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

There are currently 52 SsangYong dealers covering England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with new locations soon to be announced.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Bob Gerard Ltd London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE8 9GF Tel: 0116 259 2224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

Hepworth Motor Co Ltd 208 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 3JL Tel: 01484 683172 www.hepworthgreatwall.com

NMG 4x4 Centre Wroxam Road, Norwich NR7 8TN Tel: 01603 401044 www.nmg-uk.com

David Cook Motors Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham, Lancashire OL9 9LA Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

Dow Storey Osbourne Road, Chester-le-Street, County Durham DH3 3UE Tel: 0191 388 8261 www.dowstorey.co.uk

| Motors

Mike Robinson and Isuzu create Huntsman Special pick-up Celebrity TV chef and presenter, Mike Robinson, has taken delivery of a bespoke Isuzu D-Max pick-up, to equip him as the hunting season in England gets into full swing. ike Robinson is a keen huntsman of game and gatherer of wild food, and to ensure he has the best possible tools at his disposal during the short stalking season, he worked with Isuzu UK to select a number of special modifications for his new pickup.

Selecting an all-new Isuzu D-Max to transport him around the fields will also help Mike minimise his impact on the surrounding environment. The Isuzu D-Max, with its highlyefficient 2.5-litre Euro 5compliant twin-turbo diesel engine, delivers 163 PS and 400 Nm of torque, but equally importantly, emits only 194 g/km of CO2 and returns class-leading fuel economy of 38.2 mpg (combined).

To help Mike – one of the lead presenters on ITV’s Countrywise Kitchen – make swift progress around the 20,000-acre estate he manages, his Isuzu D-Max rides on 17-inch matt-black alloy wheels, fitted with special 255/65R17 all-terrain tyres. To avoid unwanted glare in the field, Mike has had all of the vehicle’s standard chrome-finished exterior parts wrapped in mattblack vinyl – including the front grille, door handles and rear bumper.

Based on a range-topping Isuzu D-Max 4x4 Utah double cab, Mike’s model features a unique rubber tray set on the dashboard for holding his binoculars firmly in place – but still close at hand – when the terrain gets rough.

Once he’s identified his target, Mike can take his rifle from the secure gun box in the cabin, before resting the barrel of his gun on the specially-tailored rubber covers on the wing mirrors that provide greater stability and accuracy when taking aim.

For large kills, Mike’s Isuzu DMax is fitted with a unique loadbay drawer system, winch and ramp, to aid the loading of his quarry. To keep the payload

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secure and cool, it is protected by a ventilated Truckman Grand Hard Top. Mike, who has had a number of previous Isuzu’s including two Rodeos, commented: “For several years I’ve managed a country estate, keeping wildlife and game stocks controllable and sustainable. I needed a dependable workhorse pick-up and my previous Isuzu Rodeo proved incredibly robust, utterly reliable and virtually unstoppable off-road. The modifications made to my new Isuzu D-Max have all been carefully designed to make a real difference in the day-to-day life of a hardworking stalker. I can’t wait to test its capabilities in the field.”

William Brown, General Manager at Isuzu UK commented: “The new, higher specification of the Isuzu D-Max makes it the perfect choice for a keen stalker, like Mike, who needs the space, practicality and comfort a double cab model offers, as well as being highly efficient and hugely capable on-and off-road. Mike is an exceptional brand ambassador for Isuzu, and we’re thrilled that he will use his new Isuzu D-Max during filming of the new series of Countrywise Kitchen. He knows what it means to work in the country, and needs and expects his equipment to work faultlessly, whatever the conditions – that’s why he chose Isuzu.”

The new Isuzu D-Max range includes single, extended (with rear-hinged side access panels) and double cab body configurations. Double cab models are available in four specifications: Isuzu D-Max, Eiger, Yukon and Utah. Prices start at £14,499 (CVOTR) for the entry-level Isuzu D-Max 4x2 single cab and rise to £21,499 (CVOTR) for top-of-the-range Isuzu D-Max Utah 4x4 double cab automatic. The Isuzu D-Max is the only pick-up in the UK tough enough to be covered by a five-year / 120,000-mile warranty.

72 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

al dealer Contact your loc

Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Devon - 01364 652302 devon-isuzu.co.uk

Victor Wood (Isuzu) Lincolnshire - 01476 512460 victorwoodisuzu.co.uk

B & B Tractors Staffordshire - 01283 521522 www.bandbtractors.co.uk

Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear - 01912 573309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk

Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire - 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

R. Hunt Isuzu Hampshire - 01264 860532 www.rhunt.co.uk

Bulldog Twyford Berkshire - 0118 9321 331 bulldogtwyford.com

Unity Automotive Cambridgeshire - 01733 893704 www.unityisuzu.co.uk

Duckworth Isuzu Boston - 01205 725700 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

Sheaf Motors Derbyshire - 01246 296969 isuzusales@sheafmotors.co.uk

Duckworth Isuzu Market Rasen - 01673 841410 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

Alexander & Duncan Herefordshire - 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk

Hammonds of Halesworth Suffolk - 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk

Shukers Isuzu (Shrewsbury) Shropshire - 01743 873900 www.shukersisuzu.co.uk

Holdcroft Isuzu Staffordshire - 0800 881 5546 holdcroftisuzu.com

Culverwell Cars East Sussex - 01580 880567 www.culverwells.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Mitsubishi L200 adds another string to its bow...

The only truck tough enough for a 5-year / 125,000 mile warranty. itsubishi Motors in the UK is pleased to announce that the Mitsubishi L200 now comes with the longest warranty of any pick-up truck in the UK marketplace, providing customers with peace of mind for a classleading five years/125,000 miles.

The pick-up market has seen phenomenal growth in the last decade and much of that can be attributed to the continued success of the L200, and its commercial models. Despite the current market conditions, the L200 has been selling in impressive numbers and still continues to be a top choice amongst pick-up customers.

The Mitsubishi L200 provides the most

M

74 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

versatile range in the marketplace offering three cab configurations - single, club, and double – with a wide spectrum of specifications, from the no-nonsense workmanlike 4Work models, presenting durability and functionality, through to the comfort and luxury of the range topping Barbarian and Walkinshaw models.

The first pick-up truck to receive a 4* NCAP safety rating, the L200 is the only pick-up truck which has a 4x4 system so advanced that it can be driven in 2WD or 4WD, even on dry roads!

The Mitsubishi L200 remains just as rugged as ever, but with more equipment, more style, greater performance and more power. Being rugged doesn’t mean the L200 isn’t without an

environmental conscience either, with detailed improvements being made to the truck allow it to be one of the lowest emitting and fuelefficient pick-ups in the marketplace.

Mitsubishi Motors in the UK Managing Director, Lance Bradley, said: “Warranty cover for five years or 125,000 miles gives buyers of the Mitsubishi L200 peace of mind for longer than any other pick-up in the UK. The Mitsubishi L200 won WhatVan? ‘Pickup of Year’ 15 times in 18 years and is renowned as a tough and reliable truck, which is why we have the confidence to put our money where our mouth is. What’s more, the whole L200 range will be covered.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Unity Automotive Newark Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5QJ Tel: 01733 893704 www.unitysubaru.co.uk

Holdcroft Subaru Leek Road, Hanley Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire Tel: 0800 881 5546 holdcroftsubaru.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Culverwell Cars Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG Tel: 01580 880567 www.culverwells.co.uk

Newcastle Subaru 53 Queen Alexandra Road West, North Sheilds, Tyne & Wear NE29 9AA Tel: 0191 257 3309 www.newcastlesubaru.co.uk

Shukers (Subaru) Shrewsbury 7 Battlefield Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 4AE Tel: 01743 450045 www.shukerssubaru.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 75

Barretts - Ashford

Guy Salmon – Knutsford

Rocar Moore

01233 506 070 www.barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

01565 632 525 www.guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

01484 516016 www.rocarmoo

Barretts - Canterbury

Lancaster – Reading

Hunters - De

01227 475 475 www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

0118 404 0077 www.lancaster.reading.landrover.co.uk

08451 276 506 www.hunters.d

Chipperfield – Hertfordshire

Colliers – Erdington, West Midlands

Hunters – No

01923 263 030 www.chipperfield.landrover.co.uk

08430 225 688 www.colliers.landrover.co.uk

08451 236 726 www.hunters.n

FREELANDER 2 Drive responsibly on and off-road. *£22,700 refers to Freelander 2 2.2 eD4 S 6-Speed Manual

OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE FREELANDER 2 RAN COMBINED 40.4 (7.0) – 47.1 (6.0) CO2 EMISSIONS: 185 – 158 G/KM. 76 | Farming Monthly | October 2012 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY. SMART CHOICE

FREELANDER 2 FROM £22,700* With Freelander 2 you don’t have to choose between refinement and rugged capability. You can enjoy advanced technologies such as Terrain Response® and Dynamic Stability Control in luxury and comfort. r 2WD derivative: 150hp eD4 – 47.2mpg combined r Intelligent 4WD derivatives: 150hp TD4 and 190hp SD4 r CommandShift Sport mode for all 6-speed Automatic models r GS, XS and HSE feature Bluetooth® phone system and DAB radio r HSE Lux Pack option – Windsor leather, Grand Black Lacquer and 19" Diamond-turned alloy wheels r From £22,700 OTR for eD4 S 6-speed Manual Call us today to book a test drive.

es – Huddersfield

Armstrong Massey – York

Duckworth - Market Rasen

ores.landrover.co.uk

01937 531 531 www.armstrongmassey.landrover.co.uk

01673 842 101 www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

erby

Hartwell - Oxford

Copley – Halifax

derby.landrover.co.uk

0844 324 1720 www.hartwell.oxford.landrover.co.uk

01422 363 340 www.copley.landrover.co.uk

orwich

Duckworth – Boston

Kentdale – Kendal

norwich.landrover.co.uk

01205 722 110 www.duckworth.boston.landrover.co.uk

08433 833530 www.kentdale.landrover.co.uk

NGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 39.8 (7.1) EXTRA URBAN 48.7 (5.8) – 52.3 (5.4) www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2012 | Farming Monthly | 77

| Motors

Captiva named best AWD tower over 1800kg Chevrolet’s Captiva has been named 2013’s Best Tow Car in its weight category, by the Caravan Club. he national competition, which for the first time categorised entrants by Vehicle Excise Duty tax brands rather than price, had a judging panel of 10 experts who decided that the Captiva’s capabilities beat the competition in the 1800kg and over category.

Daniel Gregorious, National Sales and Operations Manager at Chevrolet, was at the awards ceremony at the RAC Club in London, where the winners were announced. He said: “This is amazing news for Captiva – Chevrolet has a long history of SUVs and Captiva is a safe and practical model for towing.

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He later added: “We launched a ‘Safe Towing Guide’ for drivers this summer which has proved very popular, and we know many people who buy Captiva do so with towing in mind. We are really pleased the judges recognised Captiva’s capabilities in this competitive sector.”

The competition attracted 23 entrants, and was carried out at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. The panel of 10 judges included journalists and committee members. Special guest Sir Ranulph Fiennes, also watched the testing process, and then presented the Class awards at the ceremony

last week.

Tests included a mid-range 30-60mph acceleration assessment, high-speed towing circuits, emergency braking, ride and handling evaluations and hill-stop and restart tests.

The vehicles were divided into four Vehicle Excise Duty classes plus two All-Wheel-Drive categories, under 1800kg and over 1800kg.

Grenville Chamberlain, Caravan Club Chairman, commented: “The Club extends its congratulations to all the winners in this Competition.”

All new Range Rover revealed at Paris Motor Show Land Rover has revealed the all-new Range Rover, the world’s most refined and capable SUV.

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he fourth generation of the iconic Range Rover made its global public debut at the Paris International Motor

Show.

The world’s first SUV with a lightweight allaluminium body, the new Range Rover takes the capabilities of the marque’s flagship to a new level, with even greater luxury and refinement, enhanced performance and handling on all terrains, and significant advances in sustainability.

Designed and engineered at Land Rover’s development centres in the UK, the new Range Rover will be produced in a state-of-the-art new low-energy manufacturing facility at Solihull, UK. Over £370 million has been invested in the

78 | Farming Monthly | October 2012

Solihull plant to create the world’s largest aluminium body shop.

Presenting the new Range Rover, John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director said: “This is a vehicle that will take us to the next level of success. Range Rover is our flagship and a true British success story, designed, engineered and built in Britain. Its distinctive design, breadth of capability and class-leading refinement and comfort have always made it unique.

“When we asked our customers what they wanted us to change, they told us ‘don’t change it, just make it better’. We set out to create not just the world’s finest luxury SUV, but the world’s finest luxury vehicle.”

Pricing in the UK starts from £71,295 for the Range Rover Vogue 3.0L TDV6 rising to £98,395 for the Range Rover Autobiography 5.0L Supercharged.

Order books are now officially open with the first months of production expected to fill up immediately. Sales of the outgoing Range Rover remain extremely strong. In the last 12 months Land Rover has sold more vehicles across its range than in any other rolling 12 month period, retailing nearly 280,000 units world-wide.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

THE NEW ISUZU D-MAX EIGER £16,995

+ CVOTR

SAVE £1,384!

Electronic Stability Control System

CD / MP3 System with Bluetooth Keyless Entry

Traction Control System Anti-lock Braking System

16” Alloy Wheels

Electronic Shift-on-the-fly

Heated Mirrors with Indicators

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Projector Headlamps

LOAD LINER TOW BAR FLOOR MATS SEAT COVERS

WARRANTY

01892 510 005 www.lifestyleeurope.co.uk

Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 8AG

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km) for the D-Max range is: urban 28.0 – 31.7 (8.9 – 10.1), extra urban 38.7 – 45.5 (7.3 – 6.5), combined 33.6 – 38.2 (7.4 – 8.4). Official CO2 emission figure: 194 – 220 g/km.

The new Isuzu D-Max’s five-year / 120,000-mile warranty comprises of a standard 36-month / 60,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty and an extended warranty provided by the importer, Isuzu UK, for up to a total of 60 months and 120,000 miles. The Price shown excludes Road Fund License, First Registration Fee, VAT charged at 20% and manufacturer delivery charged at £500.00. Model shown for illustration purposes only. Metallic paint option charged at £400 plus 20% VAT. Information correct at time of going to press.