Farming
MONTHLY National
September 2011
Inside this issue...
Farm Buildings Animal comfort is important for productivity
Shows Dairy Event & EBEC
Competition Win a Dickies Wax Jacket
The leading directly distributed national UK agricultural magazine
Contents
September2011
UK PUBLISHING Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571
News
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Berthoud introduce E-control....................45
Dairy
EDITORIAL Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries TEL: 02476 353537
PRODUCTION
GEA relocation to Stoneleigh Park............48 Schippers continue to grow ......................51 FUW meets Wool Board............................04 McDonalds have hens covered ................08
Farm’s countryside showcase ..................44 Countrywide purchases feed business ....68
Energy
17
Barclays launch renewable energy fund ..17 Ebec & Power of 3 Event ..........................20 Introducing MT-Biomethane ......................24
New John Deere sprayer ..........................54
Vogelsang mobile solid matter feeder ......26
Tong Peal side eject box tipper ................55 New Holland and Langmead Farms ........58
Feature
28
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Claas Disco Autoswather ..........................60
On Topic
62-63
Ecology to Economy ................................62
ATV
Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com
CHANNELS
52
McConnel - the choice of champions ......14
FINANCE
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Machinery
North of England Potato Day ....................12
Production Team Steve Wilson, Andrew Poulton
SUBSCRIPTIONS
47
RABDF business debates at Dairy Event..47
ADVERTISING
To advertise please call TEL: 02476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com
41
Merlo at Tillage ..........................................43
Editor Andrew Poulton
Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com
Tillage
65
New Polaris parts portal launched ............65 Kawasaki Mule strikes delicate balance....67 The value of water ....................................28
Education
29
Hard to resist Polaris ................................69
Motors
71
Walford students in partridge project........29
Competition
30
Win a Dickies Wax Jacket ........................30
Buildings
31
Fibre cement corrugated sheet ................31 Galebreaker side curtain ventilation..........34 Asbestos roof an issue? ............................37
Feature When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk Farming Monthly September 2011
38
Amerok to the rescue ................................72 Fiat introduces drop-side truck model ......73
The agricultural land bubble ....................38
SsangYong seeks additional dealers ........78
Saltex
Next Month…
39
Kirkby Tyres to show range ......................39
UK Grain Event 3
News
FUW holds positive discussions with Wool Board A broad range of issues were tabled, including the welcome increase in the wool price. armers’ Union of Wales officials and staff have met British Wool Marketing Board producer relations manager Gareth Jones to discuss latest developments in the market for Welsh wool. Following the meeting at Meirionnydd county show, FUW president Emyr Jones said: “We discussed a broad range of issues including the welcome increase in the wool price and those issues which were likely to affect the market over the coming months.”
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“Unless it can be shown that wool has left the UK within three months of the sale, producers may be liable for a VAT charge on their sales,” said Emyr Jones. Wool prices have increased significantly in recent years with average prices in 2010 reaching £1.02 per kg compared to
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48p/kg in 2009 and 33p/kg in 2008. Emyr Jones also emphasised his support for the wool board and the central role it plays for the sheep industry. “The wool board has faced a number of well founded criticisms from the union over the years and it is our duty as producers and farming representatives to bring such concerns to the attention of the board. However, we must not lose sight of the central and important role the board plays for Welsh wool producers. “Our dairy farming members often lament the demise of the Milk Marketing Board and, while the nature of the dairy industry is very different, it would be disastrous if the wool board was to go the same way as the MMB.” During the meeting, Gareth Jones, who is responsible for developing and maintaining the board's producer relations and communications, said: “The strong demand and increased
prices look set to continue, with forecasts for the current season positive. “The enthusiasm, renewed interest and increased profile of wool as a direct result of the marketing and promotional initiative the 'Campaign for Wool' is encouraging. There has never been a better opportunity for wool as a quality natural fibre and we must all work together to ensure there is a bright future ahead for wool.” Welsh wool producers were also urged to check for any tax implications when selling wool to foreign merchants. “Unless it can be shown that wool has left the UK within three months of the sale, producers may be liable for a VAT charge on their sales,” said Emyr Jones. “If wool does not leave the UK, the transaction is a domestic
one and farmers must charge for VAT on their wool and account for this in any information they supply to the Inland Revenue. If it is exported within three months of the sale, the vat rate is zero. The correct documentation is also required by the farmer to show the wool has actually been sold and exported. “This issue should be carefully considered by farmers when they consider the prices they are offered for their wool and who to sell to.”
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
AG-BAG Systems complete sealed storage Unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it, eliminating problems of traditional solutions.
ell proven in the UK for over 30 years, the AgBag System has numerous storage applications for today’s farmer– most commonly grass, maize, wholecrop and grain (moist and dry).
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“The AgBag System puts unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it. Bags can be placed for convenient access allowing feed”
The AgBag System eliminates the problems of traditional storage. The exterior white layer of AgBag’s unique 3ply construction repels solar heat and keeps the bag and contents cooler. The black inner lining keeps out sunlight and preserves valuable nutrients. With UV inhibitors to resist sun damage, each AgBag is built to last two years in rugged weather conditions, although we have known contents to still be OK after 7 years! The airtight environment
prevents growth of aerobic bacteria, moulds and insects. It eliminates the need for dangerous chemicals and fumigants and also enhances the benefits of cool fermentation with optimal levels of lactic acid, without damaging heat build-up. The result is an easily digestible and highly nutritious feed that livestock prefer, providing higher production without expensive feed supplements. The AgBag System puts unlimited, low-cost storage capacity exactly where you need it. Bags can be placed for convenient access allowing feed to be removed with a front-end loader or be self-fed. AgBags store a wide variety of feeds, grains, crop residues and byproducts. Feed rations can be blended and balanced. The low investment cost can significantly raise profit margins. The AgBag System has all the preservation benefits associated with extremely high quality tower silage, but with less complications. The AgBags are laid down (rather than upright),
allowing easier access. The ability to direct your best feed to the stock most capable of exploiting it, is an important bonus of the AgBag System. First-cut silage can be selectively bagged rather than buried with poorer second and third cuts. Our team of nationwide trained contractors offer a fast, efficient service at a fixed price, with no hidden extras. The robust AgBag machines can fill the storage bags up to 3 tonnes per minute and we use one man and a machine to carry out the job. Fixed Price – Our prices work out between £5.50 to £7.00 per tonne of feed stored. We charge per running metre of AgBag used, which equates to around £23 - £25 per metre. Per running metre, around 4 to 5 tonnes of material can be stored in an AgBag. If you’d like further information, take a look at our website at www.agbag.co.uk or contact us on 01363-82677 or 07836-647199…..we look forward to hearing from you!
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Farming Monthly September 2011
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News
Adding value to chopped Look, no wires with RobyLink straw Improve rumen function by improving rations.
idland Feed Services are pleased to introduce a new straw chopping and treatment service using Maxammon. Maxammon is an exclusive package which raises the overall protein of the chopped straw; it reduces the non-digestible fibre fraction and converts the straw into an alkaline product. This will significantly improve the natural buffering of the rumen as the chopped straw will improve rumen function and the alkaline status will help buffer acidic based rations. Maxammon softens the straw fibres making them more digestible and as a result, increases the feed value of all types of straw. With the current high fuel
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prices, chopping straw into rations through mixer wagons is becoming ever more costly and time consuming. Therefore, having straw prechopped in a clamp can significantly reduce mixing time and improve the consistency of finished mixes. It is predicted that straw supplies will be tight in some areas this harvest, especially with little carryover stocks from last year, so treating straw with Maxammon will ensure that what you do use for feeding goes further.
For more information on this service, please contact Greg Brookes at Midland Feed Services on 01789 205391 or 07951 946 888.
he new wireless digital temperature probe systems for electronic grain store monitoring are now widely available from Robydome. The system enables farmers and store managers to assure the quality of their crops in store using Robylink™FreeLance for easier, faster and more accurate tracking of grain temperatures and condition. The floor store system simply comprises the robust wireless lance, an instore receiver and the proven Storechecksystems digital monitor. No longer are wires trailed across the floor of the storage area where they are susceptible to damage and rodent attack. The wireless system is easy to install and expandable using 2m or 3m lance probes, with up to thirty two probes per zone and up to eight zones. The probes send the temperature information via the in-store receiver to the HTM300 digital monitor or to a network interface and computer monitoring system.
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Utilising RobyLink exclusive data handling technology the system ensures the on-farm store management meets buyers’ traceability and quality assurance requirements. Suitable for cereals, oilseed and pulse crops the system represents an exceptional return on investment, identifying temperature shift at the core of the store, enabling the store manager to take early action and help prevent costly deterioration. Robydome is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of industrial grain store monitoring equipment, equipping large farm and commercial operations with state-of-the art temperature and condition tracking. The company provides advice and full support for grain store installation of monitoring systems. Tel 01787 310163 www.robydome.co.uk
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DEACONS NURSERY (FM) Godshill, I.o.W, PO38 3HW (01983) 840750 (24 hrs) Tel (01983) 522243 Fax (01983) 523575 info@deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk www.deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk
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Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Solar PV Monitoring: every installation should have one Specialist Solar PV Installer The Green Electrician reports on Solar Monitoring. nce a Solar PV system is installed on a farm, it represents a large investment offering considerable returns, providing the system is performing correctly. At The Green Electrician we don’t offer costly annual maintenance agreements, we believe that maintenance is required if the system is underperforming. For that reason we recommend that our farming customers install a monitoring system tracking output every minute of the day, so that revenue is not lost through loss of performance. Our monitoring systems compare the installed system against a predicted output. We set up an alarm that immediately notifies the customer and our technical team if the system fails to reach
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Farming Monthly September 2011
the predicted output in a 24 hour period, or if it breaks down. This means we can act quickly to rectify any internal or external problems and ensure that any loss of revenue is minimised. Sales Director, Stephen Davies said: “We feel this system is much better than costly maintenance agreements, it means that we respond to the system and actual output. If the system is performing well, then there is usually no need to go through the process of maintenance, which is often a waste of the customer’s money.” For an overview of our monitoring service, along with a live link to outputs from our farm installations visit www.thegreenelectrician.co.uk.
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News
New study shows tree cover leads to healthier hens Less feather pecking in the flock means better welfare. new piece of commercial research, conducted by the Food Animal Initiative (FAI) and McDonald’s UK, has shown that planting more trees on the range encourages laying hens to roam more freely outdoors which in turn reduces the amount of feather pecking in the flock. Feather pecking is one of the biggest welfare issues for free range laying hens and a constant economic problem for farmers who are seeing raised mortality rates as a result. The study was carried out to determine whether planting trees on the range led to a reduction in injurious feather pecking and a net increase in animal welfare for laying hens. The in-depth research, which was also supported by key McDonald’s UK suppliers Noble Foods and The Lakes Free Range Egg Company, reveals that without good
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canopy coverage the full benefits of free-range are often not fully realised. Planting a minimum of 5% canopy cover close to the hen house is both a feasible and practical method of enabling producers to reduce feather damage by feather pecking in their laying hen flocks. Lead author of the paper, Dr Ashleigh Bright from the FAI said; “Feather pecking is a constant cause for concern for free range egg producers We hope that our research findings will encourage more free range egg producers to increase the amount of good quality canopy cover on their ranges as there is both a welfare benefit to the laying hens and an economic benefit to the farmer.” McDonald’s UK Agriculture Assurance Manager, Joy Clachan, said; “At McDonald’s we are committed to improving animal welfare and our
involvement in this research is a natural extension to the work we do with internationally renowned welfare experts on an ongoing basis to ensure best practices are in place.” “The need to look into the issue of feather pecking has been widely acknowledged by the industry for some time and we’re delighted that our paper has now been published in the Animal Welfare Journal which will help to spread the word about the proven benefits of tree planting.” The study also suggests that planting more trees on the range may provide additional environmental benefits such as soil stabilisation, reduced
nutrient leaching and carbon sequestration. McDonald’s UK has been working closely with the FAI since its inception in 2001, supporting and investing in research aimed to improve animal welfare standards in a commercial environment. The company has also been using free range eggs on its menu for the last 12 years. The full paper entitled ‘Canopy cover is correlated with reduced injurious feather pecking in commercial flocks of free-range laying hens’ has been published in the August edition of the Animal Welfare Journal.
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Muddy Boots wins the Coles IT Vendor of the Year Award 2011 Australian food retailer rollout proves ‘Greenlight Quality Control’ softwares benefits. erefordshire-based Muddy Boots Software, who develop quality assurance solutions for sustainable food and farming, has won the inaugural Coles supermarket IT Vendor Award 2011. This follows the implementation of a quality management solution that improves the consistency and quality of fresh produce throughout their 742 Australian stores.
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“It has been a great experience working with Coles. They have been quick to spot the opportunity to improve their quality processes and eager to use the data to drive change for the benefit of suppliers.” Muddy Boots Software has been named Coles IT Vendor of the Year 2011 - Support Category, beating the competition of 3 other finalists. Greenlight Quality Control from www.muddyboots.com, which was implemented across Coles’ distribution centres in September 2010, was recognised by the Australian retailing giant for providing a support system that created the greatest service improvement, cost saving and enabled the greatest increase in business income over the past 12 months. Coles supermarkets is a leader in Australian food retailing, with more than 11 million customer transactions a week. Jackie Healing, Head of Quality, Policy and Governance at Coles supermarkets comments; “Greenlight QC from
Muddy Boots has given Coles first class product quality monitoring and performance reporting capability. This helps us focus our efforts in partnership with our suppliers, to achieve our objective as Australia’s leading supermarket for quality produce.” Conrad Harvey, CIO at Coles, praises the Muddy Boots team; “Congratulations on winning the inaugural Coles IT Vendor - Support Award in Melbourne. The award is testament to the partnership we have with Muddy Boots, and the levels of service we receive in the support of our implementation of Greenlight QC.” Jonathan Evans, Managing Director at Muddy Boots Software talks about the award win; “It is fantastic to get this sort of recognition from one of our key customers and this award is proof that quality management can directly impact business efficiency. “It has been a great experience working with Coles. They have been quick to spot the opportunity to improve their quality processes and eager to use the data to drive change for the benefit of suppliers and their customers. We are grateful for this global recognition of our work and we very much look forward to developing our longterm partnership with Coles and playing our part in supporting continuous improvement.” Muddy Boots’ heritage is deeply rooted in agriculture and the company has subsequently developed a strong understanding of the dynamics of the food industry from field to fork and the challenges that
Farming Monthly September 2011
companies within the food supply network face. With an expanding customer portfolio of leading brands, including Coles, Unilever, Sainsbury, M&S and Ben & Jerry’s, Muddy Boots continues to expand its operations and build increased capacity, adding a further 25% to its global workforce in 2011. The Coles IT Vendor Awards celebrate those achievements and partnerships that have
made the most meaningful contribution to the success of Coles IT over the last 12 months. Muddy Boots was recognised as being simple to operate and easy to understand with good customer training and on-going support.
“Coles supermarkets are a leader in Australian food retailing”
Next Auctions on Monday 5th September 2011 & 3rd October 2011 commencing at 10.30am
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USED
TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT
JXU90 4wd. JXU 1100 4wd. JXU 105 2wd. JXU 105 4wd. JX 1060c.
John Deere 9780 CTS Hillmaster, 2002, 22’header, chopper & spreaders.
Maxxum 140 MC 50kph. 2008, 2033 hours, trailer air brakes.
CVX1155, CVX140, CVX150, CVX175, CVX1190, CVX195.
Magnum 335, Magnum 310, Magnum 280, Magnum 225, Magnum 240.
New Holland TC56 self levelling, 5 walker combine, 13’ header.
Renault 355 Cergos, 2002, 2475 hours, one owner. Renault Ceres 436X c/w loader, choice of two.
New Holland TDD90 & Chillton loader, only 228 hours, air cond.
Fendt 924 Vario TMS, 2004, 7500 hours, 900/50 x 42, air brakes.
Mercedes MB-Trac 1000 c/w 24m Knight Sprayer, 4900 hours.
McConnel – New PA93, PA55, PA65T & PA6570 ex stock.
Puma 140 PowerShift, 2010, 263 hours. Puma 155 MultiController, 40kph. Choice of Puma tractors.
Puma CVX225 Front Linkage 50kph. 2010, 785 hours. Puma CVX180 Front Linkage 50kph. 2010, 400 hours.
Puma 165 Suspension 50kph. Puma 195 MC 50kph. Puma 210 choice of 40kph & 50kph.
John Deere 1177, 816 header, 5 walker combine, chopper & spreader.
JCB 530-70 Farm Special Super, JCB 535-60 Farm Special Super. JCB 520-40, choice of two, 2005 & 2008.
MF50EX FarmHandler, PowerShuttle, bucket, low hours.
Massey 8240 Suspension, Dynashift, 180hp. 5100 hours, one owner.
JCB 8045 ZTS, 2007, 1590 hours, cab guards, rubber tracks.
Manitou 523 Turbo, 2004, genuine 700 hours. Manitou 741 MLT 120 LSU, 2004.
Case 580 Super R series 2, air conditioned cab, 2007, 2242 hours.
Zetor 7211 2wd. 4149 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres. Zetor 6911 2wd c/w Quicke loader/fork
Claas Ares 826RZ & 836RZ, 2006, Front Linkage, low hours.
Scan to view our range
Quadtrac 500, 2005, rear pto & Linkage, also Quadtrac 480, 2006.
News
Get the most competitive insurance rates The best advice could be to seek a specialist broker. here used to be little choice as to where to go for alternate quotes as many direct insurers were not interested in farm vehicles or in providing adequate cover for these vehicles. Nowadays there are a number of brokers nationwide who specialise in farm insurance, both farm, motor and household cover. They deal with many farmers, if not predominantly with farmers. They are likely to be fully conversant with the cover provided with the various insurers in this market and are able to provide both initial and ongoing advice, no offshore call centres, no having to key your policy number into the phone everytime you ring with a query! You will generally know who
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you are dealing with and usually deal with the same people for many years to come. Home insurance is often best included with your farm cover as apart form usually resulting in lower premiums you know you have adequate cover. Furthermore a broker has the ability to research the market, able therefore to change insurers at future renewals if it is felt beneficial to so do as well as obtaining competitive premiums at inception. Brett Hannon, Managing Director, Belmont Regency Insurance Services and Independent Financial Advisers.
Farming Monthly September 2011
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News
Wealth of advice and flexible timetable at North of England Potato Day September 13th sees popular event revised to allow busy professionals more flexibility to attend. or Yorkshire potato grower Stuart Stark, the North of England Potato Day is an unmissable event. The managing director of Fridlington Farms Limited, who is responsible for 520 acres of processing potatoes grown for Walkers Crisps and McCain Foods, believes the flexibility of the programme will make it easier for growers to attend at what will be a busy time of year. The event held at Askham Bryan on September 13, will consist of a series of in-the-field interactive workshops and trials in addition to topical seminar sessions, covering a range of key areas that will appeal to farmer and staff alike. “Many growers will be drilling oilseed rape or winter cereals and some may have started lifting. But the workshop programme is repeated morning and afternoon, meaning growers can attend for two or three hours and then send their staff along afterwards.
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“That way, everyone can keep up with all the latest messages without compromising work back at the farm.” On the day, growers will be offered a valuable insight into retail and consumer trends and how they might affect the new marketing season. Keynote speaker Dr David Hughes, Emeritus Professor at the University of Kent Business School and Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, will present an overview of market trends and influences, outlining the challenges that lie ahead. The in-the-field workshops will focus on costs savings and quality and a visit will be time very well spent, Stuart maintains. “Potato growing is all about risk management these days – quality is all, and the last thing you want is rejections. This event offers all the key information you need at the right time of the year – operators can go back ready for harvest with
these messages fresh in their minds.” The bruising workshop with Eric Anderson of Scottish Agronomy and Barry Baker of Grimme will be a must-attend event for harvester operators – even the best are bound to pick up some fresh tips, says Stuart. Effective spraying with Syngenta’s Tom Robinson will be one his first ports of call. “We are spending more and more on the latest chemistry to protect our crops, so we need to do all we can to make sure it is going where it is really needed.” The desiccation demo is also high on his list, he adds. “With three agrochemical companies supporting this demonstration, there should be plenty to look at and discuss.” Potato Council’s Phil Bradshaw says other workshops likely to attract plenty of attention include soil scientist Selwyn Richardson’s soil pit, which offers an assessment of soil structure and compaction and
examples of remedial action, and of course the eight plots of variety trials. “We also have three presentations on storage, with Potato Council’s Adrian Cunnington and Adrian Briddon. Subjects include store efficiency and managing CIPC as well as coping with the challenges of a severe winter, a subject that is likely to stir up plenty of interest after last winter.” Julian Franklin from the HSE will highlight the importance of inducting and training staff, particularly pertinent as harvest approaches, says Phil. The North of England Potato Event is organised by Potato Council and sponsored by Masstock Smart Farming, SAC, Syngenta, NFU, Branston, Grimme and Cockerill. For further information on the please visit www.potato.org.uk/events or email Miya Kotecha mkotecha@potato.org.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
MEPs approve €2M for homeopathy research Stuart Agnew, MEP claims that Brussels has strayed into “Dr Dolittle territory” in new treatment for livestock.
n amendment to the EU’s draft budget for a €2 million pilot research project into homeopathy and phytotherapy for farm animals has been approved by the European Parliament's Agriculture Committee. Responding, BVA President Harvey Locke, said: “Millions of Euros have already been spent on trying to prove the scientific efficacy of homeopathic medicines. To date we have not seen any data to prove they can be effective in
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the treatment of bacterial infections. “Whilst it is unlikely that €2 million will be able to determine whether or not there is a basis for claiming homeopathic products can work, we welcome European investment in veterinary research and hope that the results of the pilot will be useful.” The measure, approved by the European Parliament’s Agriculture & Rural Development Committee, has attracted scathing criticism from Stuart Agnew MEP, the Norfolk farmer who represents the East of England. Mr Agnew said: “This idea goes beyond mere stupidity, it strays into Dr Dolittle territory. It is generally understood that much of the benefit of homeopathy comes from the
‘placebo effect’, i.e. the patient's belief that they will get better because someone has listened to them and they have been treated. I need hardly say that it is completely impractical for livestock farming. Animals do not know that they have been treated. “I would face real problems just in administering such a remedy to my 35,000 chickens. I anticipate even bigger problems in trying to have a chat with each of them, to let them know that they have been treated for their Erysipelas (bacterial skin infection) with a new homeopathic remedy! “There is no scientific proof that homeopathic remedies can
be effective against bacterial infections. Perhaps more importantly, where there is a genuine active ingredient, this will need to be licensed with a consequential stated withdrawal period for the product. After all, these birds are part of the human food chain. If licensing is not needed, then it must be proven that the effect is purely psychological, which is surely ludicrous in the context of hens and other livestock?!! “At a time of economic crisis, when many people are really struggling and debt levels are soaring, this is a scandalous waste of taxpayers' money. “I, for one, will not be talking to the animals!"
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Farming Monthly September 2011
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News
Barrier advocate Tick Control Products are 100% natural and suitable for use in organic farming systems. egularly check your animals for ticks, particularly around the head, ears and legs, as the presence of a tick is not only very uncomfortable, but can lead to skin problems and disease. There are hundreds of species of tick, several of which have been reported in the U.K. Ticks belong to the same family as spiders and are small temporary parasites that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, retiles and humans. Ticks have complicated four life stages that can take up to 3 years: Eggs that hatch into six-legged larvae, that need to feed immediately to gain strength, grow and moult to the next stage when they become eight-legged nymphs, that continue to feed and moult to the last stage, which is the adult. Visible with the naked eye at all life stages, they become active in spring, early summer and autumn, when temperatures are above 70C. They vary slightly in colour ranging from reddish to dark brown or blueblack and differ in size and
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shape from around 0.5mm to 11mm, depending on the sex, age, and whether or not they have fed. Larvae are tiny, around the size of a sesame seed, but when fully engorged can reach around 11mm. The male adult is smaller than the female, around 2.5mm. Due to the slow, blood sucking nature of a tick, they are among the most efficient carriers of disease. Ticks prefer the moisture and protection of uncultivated pasture, but can quite easily be picked up in parks and gardens. Brushed off grasses and shrubs by passing animals they spend several days as blood-sucking temporary parasites. Unable to jump or fly, they crawl into position, pierce the animal’s skin with their mouths; squirt saliva to act as an anti-coagulant and firmly fix themselves with their backward-pointing barbs, that prevent easy removal. Attempts to remove ticks without making them relax; is painful to the animal, can result in the
mouthpiece being left behind under the skin and cause infection to set in. Once engorged with blood the tick will drop to the ground to continue its lifecycle. Barrier Animal Healthcare is trusted for very high quality 100% natural, effective and affordable healthcare products for Horses, Cattle, Sheep, Poultry and Pets, and is always looking for new and innovative ways to help improve the well-being of animals. Tick Control is specifically designed, formulated and HSE licensed against Ticks on larger animals including Horses, Ponies, Donkeys, Cattle, Deer, Sheep, Goats and large Dogs. - Deters ticks from attaching themselves to the animal. - Can be sprayed directly onto ticks, to release them naturally and painlessly. - Has an anti-fungal property. - Is gentle on the skin. - Is suitable for use in Organic Farming Systems.
- Is FREE from current prohibited substances under FEI & HRA rules. - Is fully HSE approved and licensed – Licence No. 8713. - Available in a 1L quiet action trigger spray. - Is very effective and affordable. Available from all Major Saddlers & Agricultural Merchants www.flyrepel.com or call Barrier Animal Healthcare on 01953 456363.
cn 2002 IVECO DAILY 65 C15 BEAVERTAIL FLATBED 6 TON 171K km £6,500 2006 JCB JS260 LC EXCAVATOR QUICK HITCH 2 BKT 6000 hrs £38,500 2011 NEW FARR 800 UTV NEW £6,950 2009 JCB TM310 WASTEMASTER WITH BUCKET 5492 hrs £37,000 2008 JCB 536-60 AGRI SUPER 6148 hrs £32,500 300 / 500 GALLON BUNDED FUEL BOWSERS £850 / £1,250 / £1,500 2009 JCB 240 SC SWEEPER/ COLLECTOR WITH GULLY BRUSH £3,500 2010 JCB 520-50 LOADALL 377 hrs £28,750 2010 JCB 520-40 LOADALL 616 hrs £28,750 2006 THWAITES 9 TON DUMPERS 3 AVAILABLE 3000 hrs £9,000 2001 JCB 530-70 LOADALL 6443 hrs £15,000 2007 JCB 524-50 LOADALL1200 hrs £24,500 2005 FIAT KOBELCO E165 LC EXCAVATOR Q / HITCH 3 BKTS 3920 hrs £27,000
2006 JCB 535-125 LOADALL SWAY 2753 hrs £23,500 2008 JCB 540-170 LOADALL 3500 hrs £37,500 2005 TAKEUCHI TB 145 EXCAVATOR Q / H 3 BKTS 4482 hrs £15,500 2007 JCB 531-70 LOADALL 951hrs £27,000 2005 JCB 520-40 LOADALL 1901 hrs £18,500 2004 JCB JS130 EXCAVATOR HYD/ QUICK HITCH 1 BKT 5401 hrs £20,000 2003 JCB JS130 EXCAVATOR QUICK HITCH PIPED 1 BKT 6800 hrs £18,000 2005 JCB 8014 EXCAVATOR FULL CAB 1857 hrs £6,500 2005 NEW HOLLAND E145 EXCAVATOR Q/H NEW TRACKS 1 BKT 4800 hrs £26,500 2010 JCB 8085 EXCAVATOR QUICK HITCH 2 BKTS 800 hrs £38,500 2008 JCB JS130 EXCAVATOR H/Q/HITCH C/CONTROL, 3 BKT 3655 hrs £36,000 2005 NEW HOLLAND E145 EXCAVATOR Q/H NEW TRACKS 1 BKT 5200 hrs £26,500
NEW TALEX GRASS MACHINERY IN STOCK...TEDDERS, TOPPERS, SHREDDERS
See website for more details • All commercial & plant +VAT Similar machines always wanted! 14
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Peacock & Binnington win top Challenger Dealer EAME Award 2010 The Award is primarily based on volume of sales but P&B consider parts and service to be equally vital..
The presentation of the Challenger Top Dealer Award for the EAME area. eacock & Binnington modestly describe themselves as one of the top agricultural machinery dealers in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. Well now they can claim to be the best Challenger Dealer in EUROPE, AFRICA and the MIDDLE EAST, after receiving
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this prestigious award from AGCO. They have previously topped the league for sales in the UK but have surpassed even that, winning this newly created award. Les Bacon, Sales Director at Peacock & Binnington with responsibility for Challenger, was
FAST GROWING SHELTER, SCREENING, HEDGING, FUEL OR FODDER HYBRID TREES GROWING 6 TO 8 FEET PER YEAR Hybrid Willows and Poplars bred for phenomenally rapid growth of 6 to 8 feet per year. Easy to grow and tolerant of the poorest soils and sites. They make ideal screens, hedges and wind-breaks and/or a ready log supply and goat fodder.
Willow screen 18 months after planting
obviously delighted by the recognition of the success at Peacock & Binnington and explained the reasons for this. “When AGCO first took on the Challenger brand back in 2002, we could see immediately the quality of the product and how it was so well suited to the Arable farms in this fertile area of the country. We have gradually expanded our sales area especially with the establishment of a new branch at Selby and have created the back up team to give our Challenger customers the quality of support they expect.” “The Award is primarily based on volume of sales but we consider parts and service to be a vital part of our success, making sure that our Challenger customers are kept working right through the season, minimising downtime and benefiting from maximum productivity. We are the biggest 800 Challenger dealer in the UK, but are also very successful with the Challenger self propelled sprayers. We have also established a strong second hand market, which gives us a broader range of customers able to benefit from the enormous output and efficiency of the Challengers, so expanding our customer base further,” added Les. The AGCO Award presentation was made recently, by senior AGCO personnel, at P&B’s Brigg head office. As well as meeting the P&B management, sales, parts and service teams, the AGCO representatives were taken around several farms to discuss
first hand the success of the Challengers in this area. Martin Hamer, Manager, National Sales for Challenger said, “The award recognises two main aspects of P&B’s success in the Challenger market. Firstly they have been extremely successful in selling large volumes of Challenger tractors and sprayers, growing their sales over the years and expanding the business to ensure an efficient parts and service back up at the quality required.” “The second aspect is the recognition of P&B’s success to engage with the top 10% of UK agricultural producers that Challengers are so suited to. And to be able to offer the highest quality of service demanded by such a professional level of customer. You can’t mess about when big contracts with major supermarkets may be at stake, and P&B have ensured they have the trained technicians, technology and efficient back up systems to operate at this level,” added Martin. Graham Main, P&B’s Managing Director, said, “ It is great recognition for Les and the Team. Since being appointed we have sold over 120 new units with many customers now on their third repeat purchase. High praise for the quality of the product and the after sales attention that P&B provide.” “Added to this most of the used Challengers have been retailed back into the area allowing customers to make the switch of concept from wheels to tracks at an affordable price.”
All sizes available from 12 inch slips to 8 foot trees. Prices from £46 per 100+VAT including nationwide delivery to most areas. For further advice, and a free information pack, Phone John and Monica Spanton on 01404 812229 or write to Bowhayes Trees, Venn Ottery, St. Mary, Devon EX11 1RY Fax No: 01404 815800.
Poplar tree 18 months after planting
Website: www.bowhayestrees.co.uk
Please send for a descriptive list.
Farming Monthly September 2011
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News
Ceva appoints new Large New appointment boosts Worldwide Mating Service Animal Veterinary Adviser Andrew Holliday joins genetics company.
eva Animal Health has appointed a new Large Animal Veterinary Adviser for the UK. Clare Turnbull BVSc (MRCVS) enhances the company’s considerable veterinary expertise within the livestock and equine sectors. Clare, who qualified from the University of Liverpool Vet School, previously worked for a large animal veterinary practice in Cambridgeshire and has a special interest in reproductive medicine. She is based in the East Midlands where she lives with her husband, who is a farm manager and their two dogs. She said: “I am very excited about joining such a fast growing global company, with its excellent range of products.
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eading distributor of elite bovine genetics, World Wide Sires (WWS) UK has bolstered its Worldwide Mating Service (WMS) team with the appointment of Andrew Holliday as Genetic Consultant. The Harper Adams University College graduate joins the largest independent mating programme in the UK and will work with dairy farmers across North Wales, Cheshire and Lancashire. Andrew, who has a strong background in the dairy industry in Cumbria, will bring a wealth of knowledge to WMS’ nationwide team of seven Genetic Consultants. Having been employed in various sectors within the industry, including livestock auctioneers and herdsman at high profile pedigree herds, he has developed a first-hand understanding of the true commercial value of a profitable
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Special interest in reproductive medicine for East Midlands based Clare.
I am looking forward to being part of the expanding large animal team and working with vets in practice to help improve equine and livestock health and productivity.” Ceva is the company responsible for leading brands such as PRID®, Spectam® Scour Halt and Equidronate®. For further information contact Ceva Animal Health Ltd, 90 The Broadway, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1EG, telephone 01494 781510.
dairy cow. Andrew says: “I am really pleased to be joining a unique programme like WMS as it consistently demonstrates how the use of cutting-edge technology and the assessment of cows can help farmers with their breeding decisions and boost profitability.” Marion Challenor, World Wide Sires General Manager added: “I am delighted to appoint Andrew as a new WMS Genetic Consultant. Andrew’s vital skills and expertise will allow him to work objectively with customers to build a portfolio of sires that offers the best genetic return for their herd.” Andrew will be representing the company at The Dairy Event and Livestock Show in September. Contact Andrew on 07792 653804 or andrew.holliday@worldwidesire suk.com
Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy
Barclays launches £100 million renewable energy fund for farmers Martin Redfearn outlines funding development
arclays has launched a £100 million fund for UK farmers investing in renewable energy, tracking the massive groundswell of interest from farmers seeking to cut energy bills and generate new income. New figures released by the bank reveal that more than a third (37 per cent)* of the UK’s farmers are expecting to invest in renewable energy, with the majority doing so within the next year. Farmers are further expecting the investment to generate returns averaging £25,000 per year. Developed with sector
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specialists including National Farmers Union (NFU), the fund is available for solar, wind, and hydro projects in the UK, with Barclays including projected feed-in-tariffs (FIT) when assessing each loan. "For farmers investing makes sense - it's good for the environment, but for the majority it's about good business,” said Martin Redfearn, Head of Agriculture at Barclays Business. “Over the years farmers have struggled with low commodity prices and increasing costs, and Barclays has already supported many farmers as they seek new ways of making money. Renewable energy production offers farmers a further opportunity to develop their businesses and add to their traditionally vital roles of producing food and managing the countryside. "What farmers see is a winwin – lower costs and increased income, and the majority expect the investment to pay for itself in under 10 years. Meaning they are looking forward to many
Porters Farm case study ike Porter, his wife Corinne and their son James operate Porters Farm in Suffolk, an 800 acre farm contracting a further 300 acres. The farm contains wheat, oil seed rape, naked oats, vining peas and linseed. The farm has new solar panels across the entire south facing side of its grain store which were installed in July. From it, Mike Porter is looking to export 75% of their power back to the grid, creating £20K income per year, and using the other 25% to reduce their own energy bills by £5K per year. The loan from Barclays is worth £130K, and Mr Porter expects to cover the costs of the investment in the short term of 56 years. "That's why I haven't waited,"
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says Mr Porter of the short payback time. "If you are prepared to pay the capital upfront then you can save on your fuel and running costs." Just like other farms, Porters Farm has diversified their business in order to increase income, with reservoirs for trout fishing and pitches for a caravan club. "I look at renewables as a better return than diversification, which often relies on the farmer to run the new projects, while a wind turbine or solar panels doesn't take that much extra care. I think the renewables stacks up far better financially than a lot of the diversification that farmers went into over the last twenty years, like children's playgrounds. I'm surprised more farmers haven't done it.
Farming Monthly September 2011
further years of lower energy costs and a potentially new income as they sell energy back to the grid. “When looking at a new renewable project, reliable technology, competent maintenance and management are all important considerations, though of course farmers should also keep an eye on the current feed in tariff rates offered to ensure it works for their business.” Four out of five (80 per cent) of the farmers questioned recognise that renewable energy can provide significant cost savings, with 60 per cent expecting it to generate additional income for their business. In the medium term, increased investment in renewable energy appears even more likely, with Barclays predicting the costs of wind and solar projects to fall by up to 50 per cent in the next three to five years. The new fund will support the government’s recent commitment for the UK to generate 15 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. In establishing the fund Barclays has worked closely with a number of organisations
"This is actually our third renewable project. In 2006 we installed a biomass boiler which used grains tailings from our own grain that we produce. "And last year we put up a new 1,800 tonne grain store with biomass boiler. We could have used a conventional LPG burner costing £1,500 but the annual expense of the gas was going to be around £5,000 to £6,000. I did a lot of research work and found one farmer using biomass in the form of straw, so we use a biomass boiler using straw. The cost of the boiler was £15,000 and the straw is £500 per year. So we would look for that investment to pay for itself in 3-4 years." Mr Porter feels that there isn't a lot of information out there to help farmers understand what
to develop this new fund, including the NFU, Country, Land & Business Association; Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The organisations will continue to be involved with the fund in an advisory capacity, and their views will be fed in to consideration for loan applications. “The opportunities for farmers to produce renewable energy thereby helping to decarbonise the economy and contribute to the UK’s long-term energy security are there for all to see,” said Meurig Raymond, NFU deputy president. “Given the significant up-front costs of renewables technologies, commercial lending is essential to unlocking these opportunities, so it’s great to see Barclays committing to make additional funding to the sector.” More information on Barclays renewable energy fund is available through Barclays Business Managers, and is also available at The Dairy Event and Livestock Show, held at Birmingham NEC on September 6 and 7th www.dairyevent.co.uk
(*Survey conducted of 300 dairy farmers in England, Scotland and Wales in August 2011. )
the benefits and possibilities of renewable energy are, and is cautious towards a lot of the solar power offers from small scale businesses that are out in the marketplace. "Sixty years ago most farms were fairly self sufficient. Since then farmers in general have become more reliant on other people for fuels, pesticides, energy and other things. It's nice to know that we can produce things other than just food."
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Energy
Co-Operative Group unite to generate increasing wind power for the business New Cambridgeshire wind farm will see seven turbines installed adjacent to The Co-Operative’s existing eight. ork has begun this week to build a unique wind farm in Cambridgeshire, bringing together expertise from right across The Co-operative Group’s family of businesses and heralding the start of a brand new joint venture with The Ventus Funds, managed by Climate Change Capital Ltd.
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“We firmly believe that for the UK to move to low carbon economy it will require a diverse mix of energy sources.” The £18.5 million 14 MW wind farm at Coldham in Cambridgeshire, called White Mill, will see seven turbines installed adjacent to The Cooperative’s existing eight turbines all on its own farmland. As the country’s biggest farmer and ethical retailer, White Mill wind farm is a unique project
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due to the strength and expertise in bringing together The Co-operative Group’s development with The Cooperative Bank as its lender. All the energy generated from White Mill will be directly procured by the Group through an exclusive power-purchase agreement, securing a long term green energy source for the business. The Co-operative is well on the way to achieving a key element of its ethical plan to generate 25 per cent of its electricity needs from its own renewable energy projects by 2017. The seven new turbines at White Mill, supplied by REpower, will offset 26,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year and, combined with the existing wind farm, will generate in excess of 70 GW hrs electricity per year – enough to supply approx. 16,500 homes.
Groundwork has now commenced at White Mill and installation of turbines at the site will begin in spring 2012. Rob Ellis, Sustainable Development Manager at The Co-operative Group, said: “We are very pleased to have reached this point where we can now begin work at White Mill. By bringing together expertise from across our Co-operative businesses, along with the creation of a new joint venture with The Ventus Funds, we are delighted to be further increasing the amount of renewable energy we are generating from our very own wind farm and contributing to the target set out in our ethical plan. “The development of green energy projects is a major part of our social and community agenda as a Co-operative business. Most importantly, we recognise the importance of
involving local people at the outset of the project and giving them direct input into all aspects of wind farm schemes. “In addition, we will continue to support the community going forward by setting up a Community Trust and investing further in our existing environmental education programme for schools, based at our wind farm in Coldham.” James Sutcliffe, of the Renewable Energy Finance team at The Co-operative Bank, said: “This is a clear example of the Group’s family of businesses working together to take positive action on areas important to our members whilst delivering benefits for the local community at the same time. “We firmly believe that for the UK to move to low carbon economy it will require a diverse mix of energy sources. Projects such as this can make a significant contribution.”
Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy
The UK’s largest Suntech Solar PV installation Berryfields Farm just outside of Coventry is the location for exceptional solar array.
olar Power Intl Ltd have recently commissioned a stunning 96kWp solar PV system at Berryfields Farm near Coventry. In doing so the Middlemarsh, Dorset PV centre can lay claim to the largest Suntech PV installation in the UK to date. Berryfields Farm is set in beautiful countryside outside Coventry, and specialises in home reared and locally sourced food produce, some of which is sold through the Berryfields Farm shop on site. The site itself is largely dedicated to housing the farms prized sows and their considerable offspring.
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Chris Barber approached Solar Power Intl after reading an article in Farming Monthly, and after initial discussions was suitably impressed with the companies engineering, procurement and construction capabilities to instruct a full site survey. In light of a proven track record of similar installations and unique engineering design that provide minimum internal production losses, Chris saw the opportunity to install a system quickly in order to benefit from the current tariff payments, guaranteed for 25 year under the Microgeneration scheme. A proposal was made to install a large 100kWp sized PV
Farming Monthly September 2011
array on 750m2 of roof space, and work soon commenced onsite. Solar Power Intl MD Yaron Reveny told us “Chris provided us with a great site on a large South facing roof, but one of our challenges on this particular site was to establish the structural integrity of the roof itself. These systems need to be in place and performing for 25 years, so we absolutely have to ensure our standards are never compromised whatever the specific site may present us with. In this instance we agreed with Chris that we would complete a structural reinforcement of the roof prior to the installation to ensure the building and the system is sound for many many years to come”. After just 14 working days on site, a gleaming array of 345 Suntech PV modules were fully installed, together with six SMA Sunny Tripower inverters to complete the system. The system, rated at 96.6 kWp is equipped to deliver an average 86,000 kWh of power to the farm per year, earning the FiT
generation payment as well as on-site electricity savings, plus an export payment on every unit sent back to the grid. The farm has importantly largely protected itself from future electricity price rises and the system is estimated to save an incredible 48 tonnes of Co2 emissions per year. Solar Power Intl Ltd are a specialist MCS accredited Solar PV installer based in The Dorset PV Centre. Their expertise lies within both domestic and commercial installations and their services span the entire design, supply, installation and integration of Solar PV systems. The company is currently receiving huge interest in its Free Solar offering, where the company will install a Solar PV system completely free of charge, allowing land or building owners to enjoy a flexible array of benefits from free electricity to regular cash payments. Call Solar Power Intl Ltd today to find out how you too can enjoy the incredible financial and environmental benefits on offer from Solar PV, on 0844 5041317!
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Energy
ebec - where the Bioenergy markets meet to do business The 2011 event will highlight many bioenergy solutions such as biogas
ow in its sixth year, ebec provides a unique opportunity for those involved in the production of bioenergy to make direct contact with visitors who are interested in harnessing energy derived from biological sources within their organisation. The 2011 event will highlight many bioenergy solutions such as biogas, biomass, biofuel and fuel from waste sectors. Devoted to promoting British renewable energy producers and sustainable energy use, the REA has held its annual conference at ebec
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in previous years and will contribute towards a wideranging bioenergy conference this year. CPD accredited seminars will look at the latest UK government schemes to
support and promote development of the biotechnology sector and adoption of renewable energy. Guest speakers include Schmack Biogas, Envitec Biogas, UTS Biogas, Poyry, Biomass Energy Centre, Myriad Biomass and UK waste management company Biffa as well as the National Farmers Union, the Country Land
Association and the Carbon Trust will be present. Farmers and land owners either currently running a plant or looking to invest in one are sure to be attracted to key sessions such as crop use for biogas plants and the increasingly important use of biofertiliser as a replacement fertiliser in anaerobic digestion biogas production. Papers will also highlight new gasification technologies, ways to connect to the grid and ways to combat new build or retro fit challenges.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy
Industry leaders line up behind a major new event Event will bring all the on-site technologies together under one roof.
ajor names sign up including National Grid, JCB, BDO Stoy Hayward, UKTI, ABB, and Calor Gas
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“EBEC is a must-attend event for anyone in the bioenergy sector and Microgen will bring all the on-site technologies together under one roof just as the market is snowballing.” • Dozens of speakers already confirmed for FREE conference including National Grid, DECC,UKTI, BP, Carbon
Trust, Drax Power, Imperial College and Triodos Bank • REA Chief Executive calls for industry support Momentum is building behind the three co-located renewables events, EBEC, Nextgen and Microgen, that are joining forces this autumn backed by a powerful roster of leading associations including the Renewable Energy Association (REA) and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Two new events, Microgen, which serves the fast-growing sub 50kw microgeneration community and Nextgen, which covers new sources of renewable energy, will join EBEC (European Bioenergy Exhibition and Conference), already established as the UK`s leading biofuels event under the banner of ‘The Power of 3’, at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, 5-6 October. Following the recent announcement of a strategic five-year tie-up with The Renewable Energy Association
Farming Monthly September 2011
(REA), together with a deal with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), a groundswell of support has seen important companies like National Grid, JCB, BDO Stoy Hayward, UKTI, ABB and Calor Gas join the event. Other associations and leading organisations now backing the event include REAL, STA, Micropower and The Energy Institute. At the same time, Director of Content, Richard Price, unveiled much of the line-up for the major conference that will run alongside the events providing hundreds of pounds worth of content FREE to all visitors. Speakers include the National Grid`s Head of Network Strategy, senior executives from UK Trade and Investment, British Gas, The FT, Barclays and Friends of the Earth, as well as leading policy makers and associations and a compelling line-up of specialist speakers, case studies and best practice sessions in six separate streams covering Nextgen, Microgen, Biogas, Biomass and a separate
dedicated MCS Live theatre. Contact Richard Price on richard.price@closer2media.co m for more details. Gaynor Hartnell, Chief Executive of the REA says “We are delighted to have formed a strategic partnership with The Power of 3 which, with its free-ofcharge parallel conference sessions and huge exhibition, will provide something for everybody. EBEC is a must-attend event for anyone in the bioenergy sector and Microgen will bring all the on-site technologies together under one roof just as the market is snowballing. Nextgen will be the place to hear about exciting developments in renewables and debate how they may shape societies and economies of tomorrow. The Power of 3 is an event that should not be missed!”
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Buildings
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Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy
Lancashire renewables firm riding high on International AD market Extensive expansion both in the UK and abroad set to create new opportunities. ollowing a dramatic increase in turnover, profit, and further investment in working capital, Kirk Environmental has begun an extensive expansion of its Nelson offices in the UK and on its Malaysian offices in Kuala Lumpur.
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"Our transition to a low carbon economy will be a key driver of our future economic prosperity. Kirk Environmental is at the forefront of this transformation. Their innovation and expertise demonstrates why the UK is one of the best places in the world for low carbon business." Kirk Environmental a leading contractor in the Anaerobic
Digestion industry supplying Water Storage tanks, AD tanks and Biogas storage solutions has recently completed a successful recruitment drive after securing a £30million deal with Blackpool-based company Farmgen. The developments to the Lancashire based Head Office will include not only new skilled personnel but the integration of current employees from a second site in Colne which will be closing its doors on July 3rd 2011. These new developments will allow for an increase in Kirk Environmental’s manufacturing capabilities, already creating employment opportunities for skilled welders and CAD technicians. Kirk Environmental will be using the new space to continue this evolution, stepping up production in steelwork products and pipe-work, as well as BIODOME® double membrane gas holder
Farming Monthly September 2011
production. Nigel Rimmer, Operations Director said “The new site will allow a streamlining of our services with greater efficiency and tighter controls. The aim is to enhance our quality of service for our customer whilst improving the working lives of our staff.” The changes for the Lancashire-based company don’t stop there. As well as gaining an accreditation to the acclaimed Achilles Building Confidence Scheme, which has become recognised by contractors as the main standard for supplier excellence in the construction industry, Kirk Environmental has recently been awarded the highly prestigious Platinum Award in recognition of their commitment to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS). CSCS cards are increasingly in demand as proof of occupational
competence and health and safety knowledge. Kirk Environmental now has over 90% of their operational staff holding a CSCS card, creating a wider skill base and resources. Kirk Environmental has previously been praised for its contribution to the North-West area and plans to continue this boost to local regeneration. The ex-Prime Minister Gordon Brown singled out Kirk Environmental, saying "Our transition to a low carbon economy will be a key driver of our future economic prosperity. Kirk Environmental is at the forefront of this transformation. Their innovation and expertise demonstrates why the UK is one of the best places in the world for low carbon business."
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Energy
Introducing MT-Biomethane By using a biogas upgrading technology, AD generated gas can be upgraded to natural gas quality.
D plants are usually located in rural parts of the country and use the biogas in a cogeneration unit to feed in electricity. Unfortunately, the “heat” by-product can very seldom be used in sparsely populated areas without industry. Therefore, the efficiency factor of such a concept is limited to 50%. By using a biogas upgrading technology, the gas can be
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upgraded to natural gas quality and is then known as biomethane. This is being done by separation of the carbon dioxide out of the biogas. Very good upgrading technologies can reach a purity of up to 99% methane. As an infrastructurecompatible energy source the biomethane can subsequently be piped via the gas grid to the location where heat and
electricity are required simultaneously, therefore the production of biomethane is one of the highest value-added biogas concepts. This remarkably high energy efficiency is reflected in most countries through governmental aids granted for the production of biomethane. For the agricultural entrepreneur this offers the possibility to use some rich energy crops together in the mix with residual materials. In times of volatile markets for agricultural products the renewable energy can thus offer a profitable second source of income. In cooperation with a utility, a farmer can also decide only to deliver raw biogas. The utility company would then take over the upgrading and marketing part of the project. In this form of cooperation, each partner focuses on his key competence. On the one hand this reduces the added value for the farmer, but on the other hand it splits responsibilities and simultaneously maximises
security while minimising the efforts for such a project. Of the 24 projects implemented by MTBiomethan in Germany, nine were built in cooperation with utility and agricultural companies, eight were built only for farmers and seven for utilities. The size of an upgrading plant usually varies between 150 to above 2,000 Nm³ of raw biogas, which equals between 300 kW and 4 MW of electrical power. The larger the plant, the lower the specific costs of upgrading but the greater the logistical challenges. Plants starting at 250 Nm³ usually provide a good return on investment. Two key performance indicators should be taken into account when comparing the biogas upgrading technologies: Energy consumption and methane slippage. In order to run an upgrading plant profitably, one should look at a technology with the lowest primary energy consumption. Additionally, the possibility of
Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy independent sourcing of energy is of great importance. Heat can easily be produced on-site and also has a chance of being rewarded with a Renewable Heat Incentive, while the electricity can be bought from a utility. Especially in the pressure based technologies the slippage of methane in the process can mean up to more than 5% loss. This requires additional technology for cleaning the exhaust gas before releasing it into the atmosphere. But worse, this biomethane can not be sold and therefore represents a loss in revenue.
offer the experience and technology to implement a biomethane project profitably, efficiently and securely. The MTH.E.A.T technology (pressureless amin washing) is characterized by methan losses below 0,1%, very low energetic input and a biomethane purity of up to 99%.
“As an infrastructurecompatible energy source the biomethane can subsequently be piped via the gas grid to the location where heat and electricity are required simultaneously, therefore the production of biomethane is one of the highest value-added biogas concepts.” MT Biomethan has been working in the field of biogas upgrading since 2007 and can
Farming Monthly September 2011
Hestia revolutionises solar PV system design Online tool helps assess viability. n a significant development for the UK solar PV industry, Hestia, a leading UK renewable energy company, unveiled a new solar PV online application. The SolarProspector™ is a technologically advanced online tool for assessing the viability of installing solar PV on a roof - allowing both homeowners and professionals to visualise their installation and to assess the financial viability of installing solar panels on a roof. SolarProspector™ gives everyone the chance to see what their roof could be worth in solar earnings. The user-friendly design of SolarProspector™ represents a significant departure from existing market offers - giving all UK property owners the chance to assess earnings and savings from solar installations without having to commit to expensive surveys. Commercial, agricultural and residential properties can all be accurately surveyed individually for solar PV suitability, free of charge. Traditional solar PV assessment tools are either simplistic and deliver inaccurate results or require specialised knowledge to operate. SolarProspector™ is easy to use and incorporates features which significantly enhance accuracy. Single property owners can use the tool to visualise how the solar panels will look on their roof. Aerial imagery and address information identify a specific property; accurately scaled individual solar panels can then be overlaid onto the roof and arranged to fit, avoiding obstructions (such as chimneys); a full report detailing system size, electricity generation, earnings from the Feed-In Tariff and savings on fuel costs can then be produced. For larger projects and on a contract basis, Hestia can quickly and accurately assess the potential for installing solar PV on multiple properties ideal for local authorities, facilities managers, estate agencies, large property
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portfolio owners and solar PV installers. Working from a customer-supplied property address list Hestia’s expert Solar Verifiers will use SolarProspector™ to evaluate each property for solar PV suitability. This will enable Hestia to produce a list of viable roofs and prepare a comprehensive report detailing the potential system size in kWp, location of obstructions or significant overshading, estimated electricity yield, earnings from the Feed-In Tariff, potential electricity and carbon savings, and a web link to an aerial image of each property. The system has been successfully piloted on a local authority contract to examine 60,000 roofs for suitability. "I am very proud of our development team. SolarProspector™ gives everyone the chance to see what their roof could be worth in solar earnings. We are delighted to be able to make this simple online tool available for free", said Keith Bennett, Executive Chairman, Hestia. Hestia is a specialist solar PV company, providing high quality photovoltaic solutions for farmers, home owners and businesses. Operating since 1993, Hestia is an established provider of independent energy efficiency advice services and long-term contractor of the Energy Saving Trust. Hestia works with technology partners from Germany, and continually invests in developing innovative new products and tools for the renewable energy sector. “Hestia plays a pioneering role in the UK solar PV industry and we are constantly seeking effective new ways to help our customers make informed choices. We believe that SolarProspector™ provides just the uncomplicated and accurate answer they are looking for.” said Keith Bennett, Executive Chairman, Hestia. SolarProspector™ is available online at www.hestiaservices.co.uk and on a contract basis from Hestia from August 2011.
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Energy
Vogelsang puts mobile solid matter feeder on the market Mobile Feeding Unit (MFU) for biogas plants, Complete module solution for feeding a digester. ith the Mobile Feeding Unit (MFU), Hugo Vogelsang Maschinenbau GmbH, an established specialty supplier of pumping, maceration, distribution and spreading technology for the agricultural, industrial and municipal sectors, has developed a mobile and quickly connectable digester feeding unit for biogas plants. The module component is completely pre-installed, so it requires little assembly and is soon ready to use. Therefore it is suitable both for plant modernization and as an emergency unit or as a station for testing the suitability of new cosubstrates. The development of the MFU was substantially supported by Vogelsang's participation in the project EU-AGRO-BIOGAS. This project, a European initiative for sustainable improvement of the efficiency of biogas plants, examined the combination of QuickMix II and RotaCut as a feeding technology – and a prototype of the MFU has already been used here. "On the basis of numerous tests and analysis results, we have improved and further developed
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the MFU," says Markus Liebich, sales manager at Vogelsang. The product, which is now market-ready, has proven components mounted on a common frame. The BioCut, together with the Vogelsang rotary lobe pump and the RotaCut macerator, forms the pumping unit for feeding in the liquid phase; foreign objects in the liquid flow are separated here, and fibrous and coarse materials are macerated. QuickMix II mashes the dry cosubstrates with the liquid phase and brings this suspension to the digesters. The MFU also has a downstream RotaCut RCX-58G, specifically developed for use in biogas plants to treat biosuspension. The performance control unit (PCU) monitors all components and optimizes plant operation. Advantages of the modular design Unlike the conventional procedure, in which the components are installed in the biogas plant individually, the MFU is fully pre-installed. The module delivered is ready to use and offers many advantages due to its mobility.
Easy plant expansion If biogas plants are to be expanded or modernized, the MFU can be set up during running operation. Once the connection is made to the existing power lines and pipework, switching can take place and there are no restrictions. Maintaining gas production in emergencies As an emergency unit, the MFU absorbs losses in case of sudden failure of the plant's own digester feeding system. This usage is particularly interesting for operators of multiple systems or for pools of multiple biogas plant operators. The MFU is driven with an ordinary truck to the site within the shortest possible time. Additional machines for loading and unloading are not required. Necessary repairs or maintenance work can be done thoroughly, without the gas production having to be shut down. Mobile test station: trying out new cosubstrates In addition to selling the digester feeding unit as a readyto-use module component,
Vogelsang also rents the MFU as a test station so that new cosubstrates can be tested at a reasonable cost. Often the technology installed in a biogas plant is designed for just a few cosubstrates (mostly corn silage or grain). Others, such as grass silage, turnips, potatoes, onions or carrots, cannot be processed then. Just for an experiment with alternative cosubstrates, costly building projects are often needed – without any guarantee of success. Gathering experience with wet feeding Experience in the context of the research project EU-AGROBIOGAS has demonstrated the advantages of the modern form of wet feeding: Reduced energy consumption for mashing and stirring (up to 40 percent) is contrasted with a higher gas yield (up to 8 percent more than with a dry solid matter feeder). "All experience gathered in the EU experiments have gone into our new development," says Liebich. "With the MFU, each biogas plant operator can collect his own experiences with wet feeding without having to pay the expense of converting his plant."
New insurance policy for Evance R9000 wind turbine Customers in the UK & Ireland can insure against damage & loss of FiT income vance Wind Turbines, a world leading manufacturer of small wind turbines, have announced the availability of a comprehensive insurance policy for the R9000 turbine. This new insurance policy, available from Lycetts, and underwritten by ACE, covers the turbine and system for unforeseen damage, accidental as well as malicious, plus perils such as fire, lightning and storm. Also this policy, one of only a few available, covers loss of income resulting from damage
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and break down. Therefore lost income from the Feed-in Tariff scheme is recoverable, together with any additional cost of buying replacement energy, with just seven days excess. “We are pleased to notify our customers in the UK & Ireland of the availability of this comprehensive cover which enables them to insure their system and revenue stream at a very competitive premium,” stated Kevin Parslow, CEO of Evance Wind Turbines.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Energy
Wind power – the latest chapter in a 50 year tale of farming diversification Warwickshire farmer continues to embrace new opportunities to ‘stay on top of the game.’ or many people in the world of agriculture, David Eglin more or less defines farming diversification and just what it takes for many in the industry to survive. Over the last 50 years, he has battled with local authorities, motorway developers, ruined drainage systems and much else besides to turn a former airfield into a successful 205 acre farming enterprise. Today at Bramcote Mains in North Warwickshire, David mixes sheep farming with caravan storage, a small camping site, coarse fishing, using the wool from his sheep for woollen coffins, and a meat box scheme. But turning an old aerodrome into any kind of commercial success – agricultural or otherwise – has been anything but easy. When he arrived at the ‘farm’ he faced the daunting prospect of digging up miles of metal tracking, a huge lime deficiency in the soil and weed infestation. Then, just as he was starting to make progress, a motorway was built right through the farm wrecking the drainage system. He persuaded the authorities to compensate him by building a reservoir alongside the motorway and he successfully moved into coarse fishing in the mid 1970s. However, not all his plans for the farm have worked out and he has been up and down several blind alleys. Fly fishing, for instance, turned out to be a non-starter. David and his wife Sue also gave pig farming a go,
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which didn’t work either. With a background in grassland research, he finally developed the right environment for pedigree sheep. Today he is the biggest importer of Charmoise sheep from France and has a highly rated polled Dorset flock. David is always looking for the next diversification idea but with energy bills always a cause of concern, the financial incentive of wind turbines provided a natural next step. “We use a considerable amount of electricity over the year, approximately £8,000 worth what with computers, CCTV and general use,” says David. With the nearby village of Wolvey famous for its windmills, David felt that a wind turbine would be a natural addition to the farm and its surroundings. He also recognised that there were financial incentives available that would not only help combat his high energy bills, but could potentially turn a profit. David met Sitec, a specialist in the construction of renewable energy facilities, at a show. It was here that David got speaking to Sitec’s Chris Evans about the feasibility of installing a turbine. “David invited us to come and see his proposed site, in order to assess whether the installation of a wind turbine would be viable,” says Chris. “When considering a renewable energy solution, it is essential to conduct a
Farming Monthly September 2011
feasibility study to assess the site’s suitability.” The Sitec feasibility study involves thorough analysis of data gathered at the proposed site, including average wind speed, as well as any potential obstructions such as trees or buildings that would be likely to affect wind flow. “We recommended the Evoco 10kW to David based on his requirements,” Chris continues. With a peak rated output of 10kW at a wind speed of 12m/s, the Evoco 10kW is a small scale wind turbine specifically designed for high reliability and low maintenance. Capable of producing an energy yield equating to a potential income of £14,000 per annum, the Evoco 10kW is designed to provide payback over a very short period. What’s more, Evoco’s wind turbines do not interfere with livestock rearing or crop growth, making them ideal for farmers, and can be deployed on an unobstructed rural site as small as one acre. As one of the first turbines to achieve full accreditation under the UK Government’s Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), the Evoco 10kW is also eligible for Feed-In Tariffs (FITs). These are the financial incentives provided under the clean energy scheme and pay small scale and domestic energy producers for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy they produce, as well as for any electricity they export to the grid. Although the wind turbine has only been in operation for a short while, the benefits are already apparent. “Within the first month, we generated 700kWh, which is pretty much the full capacity we were expecting,” David confirms. “The savings we anticipate on our energy bills combined with the potential revenue we could realise via FITs means we expect to see a full return on the investment within six years, and maybe even before.” David was already aware of the financial incentives that were available to support wind turbine installations, and to minimise risk to the farm, he invested funds himself and obtained an interest free loan from the
Carbon Trust. According to Ryan Gill, Managing Director of Evoco, wind turbines present a great option for farmers who have the land available, and it is something that any farm should seriously consider. “Not every site is going to be suitable for a turbine, but there are certainly going to be a large number that are. However, both an MCSaccredited turbine and an MCSaccredited installer are an essential element to the process,” says Ryan.
“David is always looking for the next diversification idea but with energy bills always a cause of concern, the financial incentive of wind turbines provided a natural next step.” 27
Feature
Shortage of water – give us a break! by Hugh Fell, Managing Partner, George F White Group he scientific community may well be very excited at having just found evidence of water on Mars, but us canny lads up North can tell you there’s no shortage of the stuff up here in August 2011. The reason they’ve spent £millions on the Mars research, is of course because water is fundamental to the existence of life. You can live quite a while without any food, but you’ve soon curled your toes up without any water. I have always been interested in this fundamental ‘stuff’ – H2O - water. Playing on it and in it; its use for growing crops; for sustaining animals; enhancement of landscape; its use by industry in processing and cooling; and the significant impact it can have when there is too much – namely flooding. The World Water Development Report predicts that in the next twenty years the quantity of water globally available will decrease by 30% with world demand for water doubling. If we take you on a journey to 2050, it is generally accepted that the world population will have increased to over nine billion. Demand for agricultural goods will have risen by 70% and the water ‘consumed’ as a result of growing food, will have increased by 53%. Here’s an interesting statistic for you – it takes 1,100 litres of water to grow one kg of wheat – it takes 15,500 litres to grow one kg of beef. That’s why food is now at the top of the G8 Agenda. As we know, any ‘stuff’ that’s in short
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supply, becomes more valuable – people start to take more notice of it and ultimately fight over it. Water in the UK is something we have largely taken for granted - it is simply there at our disposal. We turn on a tap or flush the loo, and our water provider is under a statutory obligation to provide it, but have you tried living for a week without it? What a ‘hell’ your life turns into. And our perception of the value of this ‘stuff’ is fascinating. You expect to get it out of the tap for virtually nothing, BUT you are prepared to pay over a £1/litre from the shop, because it’s in a branded bottle – but if it was a litre of milk you’d be buying, you’d only expect to pay half that. In a world where this finite resource (they’re not making any more) is going to come under increasing stress from demand outstripping supply, it’s good to have plenty. The shortage is becoming increasingly evident in the UK. The South East of England has less water available per head that sub Saharan Africa. The practical reality of this will be that will be that business which need water to process or cool, or farmers needing large quantities for irrigation, will either source their own water resource, paying a lot more, or will recloate to a ‘place of plenty’. And so to the valuation challenge - to place monetary/economic value on this ‘stuff’ – water, as a separate resource. There has been
endless discussion, research and commentary about the environmental value of water and centuries’ old debate, tensions and legislation about the social/human right to receive water. However, in our modern
Branston Ltd reduce their water useage otato company Branston Ltd has installed a £1 million water recycling plant at its Ilminster site – and is already reducing its mains water usage by thousands of litres a day Branston, the UK’s leading buyer and packer of potatoes, has installed the water recycling plant and chilling system as part of its continuing commitment to the environment. Since the plant’s installation, Branston is already saving 41 cubic metres of mains water every day - the equivalent of 230 baths or enough water to fill a large swimming pool. Ian Wait, general manager at
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the Branston site, said: “To wash potatoes which come into the plant from local producers, we were using a mix of borehole and mains water. This topped around 79 cubic metres each day – so we decided to look at the way we used water on site and how we could reduce our mains water usage. “By working with several local agencies, we have successfully created a water recycling unit which, after just a few months of being up and running, is reducing our mains water usage by an incredible 52%. Branston’s new recycling system treats the waste water
from washing potatoes by removing the soil. The water then passes through a state-of-the-art membrane bioreactor for further filtration. The recycled water is then stored and used on site to wash potatoes. Branston fully expects mains water savings to increase over the coming months and is aiming for a 60% reduction. Not only is Branston now using less mains water for washing potatoes – but it is putting less effluent back into the public sewer. The recycling unit is also allowing Branston to put cleaner water back into the sewer. Branston received £55,000 in
capitalist society, you can’t get a truly balanced sustainable management of a resource until you grip the challenge of dealing with capital value. Until you place a true capital value on a resource, it will never be managed effectively. In my role as chairman of the RICS Working Group on the valuation of water, I’m having to grapple with fascinating new concepts and approaches – but we will be producing a new methodology for the valuation of water that is likely to bring about a significant rethink in one of our most precious assets, across the UK and beyond. Watch this space. It may soon be water logged. funding from the European Regional Development Fund via the Interreg project Water Adaptation is Valuable for Everybody (WAVE), a partnership project supported by Somerset County Council and The UK Farming and Advisory Group (FWAG) which is helping Branston to reduce its effluent discharge by at least 80%. Branston was the first company in produce to receive ISO 14001 accreditation at its three sites in Somerset, Lincolnshire and Scotland. In 2008, Branston became the first company in the food sector to get the Carbon Trust Standard in recognition of its environmental initiatives.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Education
Partridge Reintroduction Project Gamekeeping students will have the opportunity to study the birds in greater detail.
Andrew Lunt and Sophie Morrissey (both Gamekeeping Apprentices) holding one of the soon to be released Partridges. amekeeping Students at Walford and North Shropshire College have been getting involved with the National Partridge Reintroduction Project. Richard Norbury, Gamekeeping Tutor at the Walford Campus says “Grey Partridge numbers are not thriving. There are around 80% fewer of these birds in the UK at the moment. The project hopes
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to significantly increase the numbers of these native birds.” In the summer of 2010 Gamekeeping student Andrew Lunt, a Gamekeeper at Ollerton Grange in Cheshire, purchased twelve unrelated re-introduction Grey Partridge eggs from Perdix Wildlife Solutions based in Warwickshire. Perdix is the company that supplies the Game and Wildlife Conservation
Trust. The following spring, after a lot of careful handling, breeding, pairing and several successful hatchings, Andrew donated the birds to the College for the re-introduction project. Twenty of the parent-reared birds, all fitted with yellow leg rings on their right legs which serve to identify them as not for shooting, were released onto the College Estate on Wednesday 17th August. Anyone who sees any of the birds is being asked to contact Richard, on 01939 262130 or via email r.norbury@wnsc.ac.uk this will allow the College to monitor the distribution of the birds. Richard explains “The re-introduction project will give the Gamekeeping students the opportunity to study the birds in great detail including their habitat management. Through this they will gain invaluable hands on experience of our native game bird.
Releases in future years, of birds from similar breeding programmes, will be undertaken along with the continuation of habitat management which will hopefully result in a small, selfsustaining breeding population.” For more information about the Gamekeeping apprenticeships or other courses at Walford and North Shropshire College please visit our website at www.wnsc.ac.uk or telephone 01939 262 100
MOULTON COLLEGE NORTHAMPTONSHIRE An Outstanding Landbased College
Courses: ➤ level 2 Diploma in Agriculture ➤ Level 3 Subsidery Diploma in Agriculture or farm mechanisation ➤ Level 3 diploma in Agriculture or farm mechanisation Foundation degree or BSc in Agriculture A range of short courses also available in Pesticide Application, Use of Chainsaw and Mechanical Handling ranging from Forklifts to 360° Excavators.
For a full range of courses available visit
www.moulton.ac.uk
For further information please contact Student Services on
Tel: 01604 491131, Fax: 01604 491127 email: enquiries@moulton.ac.uk
MOULTON COLLEGE, WEST STREET, MOULTON, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE. NN3 7RR
Farming Monthly September 2011
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Competition
Websites
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The advertisers below would like to highlight their online presence and request that you visit their website to find out more information about the products and services they offer. Also visit Farming Monthly at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
SOUTHAM AGRICULTURAL SERVICES Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam CV47 2DH
Tel: 01926 813426 Fax: 01926 817908
WWW.SOUTHHAMAGRI.CO.UK
Parker Hydraulics & Pneumatics Parker Hydraulics & Pneumatics will be exhibiting the GatesHydraulic range of hose couplings and crimping machinery along with Ace Gas Springs, Festo Pneumatics and IMO electrical control gear. Hydraulic & pneumatic components and equipment Unit 5, Ashbourne Estate, Mile Cross Lane, Norwich NR6 6RY
Tel: 01603 258703 • Fax: 01603 485337 Email: davidwillimott@btconnect.com • Internet: www.parkerhydraulics.co.uk
LIMEX Contact our sales team:
Tel 0870 2402314 • Fax 0870 2402729
E-mail: limex@britishsugar.com www.limex.co.uk
COMPETITION : Win a Dickies wax jacket Resilient and stylish, a great item of protective wear which looks as good as it performs. orming part of Dickies’ wide choice of hard wearing and protective outdoor workwear is the water resistant Westfield Wax Jacket which can also be accompanied by matching trousers or leggings. This lightly quilted, resilient working jacket is woven in the UK using 100% heavy weight, wax treated, 400gsm cotton and has a 100% brushed cotton lining which allows the garment
to ‘breathe’, keeping the wearer comfortably warm in Winter or cool in Summer. A five stud storm flap, two way heavy duty plastic zip, removable hood, storm cuffs and drip strips keep the rain from seeping in anywhere and the draughts out. There are two large external pockets with studded flaps, external hand warmer pockets and an internal corduroy collar. The jacket is ideal for wearing in any outdoor situation but especially in heavy
Closing date for entries is the 28th September 2011.
competitions@farmingmonthly.com
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To enter:
Answer the following question:
Q, What is the only available colour for the Westfield Wax Jacket ?
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Entries by post to: Farming Monthly National, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ or email:
Alternatively, you can enter on our website at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk/ competitions Usual rules apply and the publishers decision is final in any dispute arising from this competition.-
undergrowth where some protection may be needed against wild foliage; worn during country sporting or leisure pursuits where silence is necessary, it has the added advantage of being rustle free. The Westfield Wax Jacket (Code No: WX11102) is repairable, can be re-waxed and comes in sizes ranging from XS to XXL, in bottle green only. For more information on this and all Dickies outdoor protective clothing and footwear, visit: www.dickiesworkwear.com
Last months winners of the JCB Workware are: A. Stevens - Somerset P. Winter - Co. Durham C. Harrison - Lincs Thanks to everyone else for their entries!
Farming Monthly September 2011
Buildings
High and dry with fibre cement corrugated sheet Ged Ferris Marketing Manager of Cembrit outlines how buildings built with fibre cement can help keep overwintering animals healthy and productive. n the last few years, the UK has experienced severe weather over the winter period; sub-zero temperatures, snow and ice have all contributed to remind us how disruptive the weather can be. For the vast majority of us, this type of weather is just a major inconvenience, but for farmers it is a reminder of how important it is to concentrate on good winter management of livestock. Over-wintering livestock in closed buildings is common practice in many areas of the country. It helps keep the animals protected from the weather, while keeping conditions constant and facilitates herd management. Understanding the demands of keeping livestock inside is an important part of keeping the animals healthy and productive. Feeding, bedding, hygiene and animal health are always important, never more so than when the beasts are confined, over a long spell of overwintering. The building itself has a role to play. The design, installation quality and construction materials all contribute to a successful construction. A well designed building needs to be functional and long lasting. If the main purpose is livestock, ventilation is of crucial importance. Typically open vertical timber boards are used on the walls (Yorkshire boarding), to allow dry air to circulate continuously. However, at the apex of the roof there are potential still/stale air pockets which also need to be ventilated. This is usually achieved by the incorporation of special accessories. Cembrit offers continuous, intermittent and open protected ridge profiles which provide the necessary aperture to allow the moist air to be vented. In addition, the building may have supplementary roles to the main purpose of sheltering animals, such as storing machinery, animal feed and chemicals which also have to be considered. This may mean that open or partially opened walls are not appropriate.
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In this case, roof ventilation is crucial. In addition to the various ridge ventilation profiles just mentioned, Cembrit also offers special corrugated sheets with upturned corrugations on each side of the sheet which allows the sheets to be laid with gaps in between (open spaced roofing) rather than overlapping as they would conventionally be installed. This method of construction has an additional benefit in that installation is generally faster than conventional sheeting as there is no mitring required. The cladding material used for the building has a vital role to play. The challenge is to choose a material that will cope with all the demands while meeting, an often tight budget. For this reason, agricultural buildings where livestock or plant is sheltered tends to be single skin as temperature controlled airtightness is not an issue as it is with say grain or crop storage. There are generally two options, steel or fibre cement corrugated sheet. One of the major benefits of using corrugated fibre cement its ability to cope with the moisture in the building. This is particularly important because the high humidity resulting from the respiration of animals creates moisture in the atmosphere which could condense on the ceiling. The colder and less porous the roof, the more rapidly the moisture will condense and form droplets which fall onto whatever is kept in the building. Metallic roofs (steel or aluminium) are prone to this. The combination of warmth, moisture and hosts/growth substrate in the form of feed or manure create a positive culture for the spread of diseases, whether infectious or fungal which can typically cause respiratory diseases, skin infections and distress to the creatures. These are easily transmitted and spread in this unhealthy environment. Corrugated fibre cement is particularly suited to animal housing. It is less dense than
Farming Monthly September 2011
steel and has an ability to absorb and slowly release this moisture over time. The ingredients used in the manufacture – cellulose, manmade fibres and cement – together create a lightweight and importantly, porous building material. This porous quality makes it an ideal for such a high humidity environment as an overwintering animal shed. Alongside moisture management there is also the question of durability to consider. The digestive processes of animals produce high quantities of urea, ammonia (from the decomposition of animal waste) and methane content of the internal atmosphere which being warm is transmitted upwards towards the roof. This corrosive atmosphere will affect metallic components and of course any thin steel sheeting which maybe used on roofing and cladding. In fact, the cladding of farm buildings comes under a “double attack” from outside weathering and from within. It is surprising that the internal environment of a building containing livestock can be more aggressive to the building fabric than the atmosphere outside! Single skin steel can need to be replaced after as little as 20-30 years in
such an aggressive environment as intensively used animal housing. Fibre cement on the other hand has been proved in use to last more than 60 years. Cembrit Cemsix is a fully accredited Fibre cement sheet that offers outstanding resistance to atmospheric and internal attack, chemicals, and corrosive vapours, and does not rot or rust, unlike metallic sheets. It is available in a series of 11 colours and profiles, including matt effect Cemscape or Sherwood, with a full range of complementary accessories. For an over-wintering shed, Cemsix is the ideal cost-effective roofing and cladding solution. It is versatile and durable and can help maintain the healthy environment that over-wintering demands. Cembrit can provide samples, a full range of design recommendations supporting information and even suggest agricultural frame manufacturers with the experience to construct compliant farm buildings incorporating Cemsix fibre cement corrugated sheet. For more information visit www.cembrit.co.uk, email info@cembrit.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 8301 8900.
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Buildings
Get in the net! Safety is Boris Nets ultimate goal. oris Net Company is a specialist netting company based in Fleetwood in the North West; the company was founded in 1958 by Boris Howard, concentrating mainly on the fishing industry in the early years. It is a family run company run by John Howard, and his daughter Jo Hawalewicz. We provide netting to the fishing, fish farming, sports, construction and agricultural industries to name but a few, no job is too big or too small. Customers will receive a personal approach which can include design and advice. Our range of netting is second to none in the UK, and we can usually find netting in stock for most applications. We source all our raw materials from the best suppliers in the UK and mainland Europe so that we can provide the best quality product for our customers. If you are looking for a cheap far eat imports then unfortunately we are not the company for you We offer safety net training
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and assessment for RIDBA members to allow them to qualify for a RIDBA safety netting card. This is increasingly becoming important due to Health and safety legislation, and as it helps prove competency and is quickly becoming a requirement for insurance companies to insure new builds. For the agricultural industry we can provide bird control nets, light weight netting for hay storage, segregation nets for poultry, pheasant netting. We enjoy new projects so if customers come to us with an idea where netting could be used then we will happily consult with them to come up with a solution.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Dairy
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Buildings
Variable ventilation side Fibre cement roof sheets curtain and ventilation have it covered light ridge systems G An excellent, value for money roofing option.
Maximise ventilation and animal performance.
alebreaker are committed to providing first class products such as our Variable Ventilation Side Curtain and Ventilation Light Ridge systems in order to maximise building ventilation and animal performance all year round. Years of experience have enabled the company to develop a wide range of products for use within the agricultural sector and beyond. Weather protection, ventilation and optimum livestock performance have always been at the fore front of their products and research methods.
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“ The products ten year guarantees reinforce the companies dedication and experience in the field of ventilation products. “ Products that go hand in hand such as the Galebreaker Ventilation Light Ridge and VVS systems are detailed below with the features and benefits of both. The variable ventilation system (VVS) is designed to allow fresh, clean air in through the sides of the building together with monitoring weather conditions both in and outside of the building. Galebreaker systems are designed as a replacement for
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traditional cladding methods and will provide three times better air flow than space boarding. A single screen can operate the full length of the building and can be adjusted to provide optimum air flow. Installations can be up to 70m in length for 3m high openings or 45m long for up to 5m high openings. Galebreaker offer two choices of drive mechanisms, cable and torque tube, and all automated systems come with an added pulse pause safety device. The Galebreaker light ridge launched in March 2011 has been designed to meet the needs of farmers and associated markets that require natural ventilation and additional light from their buildings ridge/apex. Both new and existing buildings can be fitted with the ridge and the three width choices of 1, 2 and 3m offer the same ventilation but with additional light transition on the 2 and 3 metre models. When used with the VVS ventilation system Galebreaker’s light ridge provides total ventilation control for the livestock building which reduces the risk of diseases such as pneumonia, mastitis and scours. The products ten year guarantees reinforce the companies dedication and experience in the field of ventilation products.
ood ventilation is a critical factor when looking to maximise animal welfare. Here, Andrew Brown, Technical Services Manager - Profiled Sheeting at Marley Eternit, looks at how this can be best achieved using fibre cement sheets and fittings. “The state of many existing agricultural buildings highlighted by last winter’s snow, rain and high winds has prompted more farmers to upgrade their buildings. Others are simply expanding their operations with new buildings, and common to all of these is a need to maximise animal welfare through provision of adequate ventilation.
“ Careful choice of roof covering can also have a considerable effect on both the animal welfare and the long term value for money. “ The required amount of ventilation depends on the type of animal being housed and the stocking levels within the building. One of the first decisions is to choose a ventilation system suitable for the proposed use of the building. There are four types of roof ventilation commonly in use, as follows: Open ridges – These can be designed as both an unprotected and protected open ridge ventilation system. They are effective in providing an efficient outflow of air, whilst allowing rain to be channeled away over the roof. Breathing roofs A simple and effective means of achieving natural ventilation by inserting timber battens in the end laps between courses of profiled sheeting. Breathable roofs are a very effective method of reducing condensation over the whole roof area, whist minimising weather penetration. Spaced roof This achieves a high level of ventilation and natural internal daylight by allowing a gap of 15 and 25mm between the edges of the roof sheets. The well formed edge gutters on factory trimmed fibre cement sheets
prevents water dripping into the building during heavy rainfall. Ventilated ridge pieces that can be incorporated in a run of closed ridges. The normal practice is to use one of the ridge ventilation options in conjunction with ventilation at the eaves or through the walls, such as Yorkshire boarding, and the slope ventilation is only provided where greater levels of ventilation are required. All of the ventilation systems are easy to install and are suitable for both new and refurbishment projects. When correctly designed they reduce the humidity levels in the building without creating draughts at low level. As well as incorporating these active ventilation systems into the roof design, fibre cement profiled sheeting is vapour permeable. Unlike other materials such as steel, this reduces condensation by allowing moisture to escape to the outside, which in turn can help to prevent breathing related conditions in livestock as well as protecting farm machinery. There are many other benefits to specifying fibre cement on agricultural buildings in preference to other types of single skin profiled sheets. Careful choice of roof covering can also have a considerable effect on both the animal welfare and the long term value for money – which is why most farmers are still specifying fibre cement profiled sheeting on their buildings” Fibre cement profiled sheeting is low maintenance, with a life expectancy of at least 50 years; saving money for farmers in the long run. This is due to the fact that it has no metallic content, which is an advantage when used on livestock buildings, where the heat and moisture produced by animals creates a slightly acidic atmosphere which makes roofing coverings that have steel content highly susceptible to corrosion. For more information on Marley Eternit’s UKmanufactured fibre cement sheeting, call 01283 722588, or email: profile@marleyeternit.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
Dairy
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Farming Monthly September 2011
Buildings
Asbestos Roof? Then Think SolaRoof. By Michael Driscoll, Managing Director, Switch Solar Energy Ltd.
hilst asbestos containing materials were banned in 2006 in new build properties, there are still plenty of older farm buildings in the UK where asbestos is present. This poses not only a health hazard if the asbestos is disturbed, but also gives the farmer (under duty of care legislation) added responsibilities for the management of asbestos in the buildings which they have control. So it's law, and lets face it, with such potentially serious consequences for anyone coming into contact with asbestos, the regulations are there for very good reasons. However, with the pressure that today's farmers are under, the
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legal duty to manage the risk from this material is one I am sure many could do without. Many farmers and building owners are still unaware that asbestos removal can be set against a companies profits as tax relief at a rate of 150%. So, for example, if the actual cost of the asbestos removal is £40,000, then £60,000 can actually be deducted from the property owners taxable profits. With the government’s 25 year Feed-in-Tarrif incentives for generated electricity, and with handsome incomes paid for those that do so, now is the perfect opportunity to replace the 'problem' (asbestos roof) with a new roof that includes a Photo Voltaic (PV) array.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Here at Switch Solar Energy Ltd we can install “transparent” solar panels as a total roof replacement. It is called SolaRoof™ and is primarily used as a substitute as a replacement for dangerous asbestos roofs. The advantages of SolaRoof™ are 1) The building owner gets rid of a dangerous and hazardous roof material 2The replacement SolaRoof™ generates an income by way of the Feed-in-Tariff to not only cover the cost of the roof replacement but provides free electricity. 3)The new roof lets in natural light through the panels thus reducing the need for constant and oppressive and expensive
lighting. SolaRoof™ has many other applications such as warehouses or factories and will still still receive all the benefits of FiT income and natural lighting. If you are thinking of a new roof and want to know more about SolaRoof™ or even want to know more about the Feed-inTariff, please call us on 01865 922200 or visit www.switchsolarenergy.com With a range of services from initial project feasibility and projected costs, to MSC accredited installation of partner products such as Sharp and Fischer, your PV project and roof will be in expert hands.
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Feature
Agricultural land – when will the bubble burst? Is it fair and right to say, “what goes up, must come down”? We find out from Andrew Robinson... Demand is still outstripping supply, which inevitably creates a sellers’ market. Quite simply, there are fewer farms on the market than farmers wanting to buy them. But, with interest rates expected to raise either later this year or early in 2012, this situation may change, prompting more landowners to put their land up for sale. With property developments proving difficult to shift and yielding lower returns at present, it is unsurprising that the majority of the current bids for agricultural land are from agricultural businesses rather than from institutions or residential developers.
A safer bet
ndrew Robinson of independent chartered surveyors Andrew Granger & Co looks at the agricultural land market and the reasons for its buoyant performance, making some predictions for the future.
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“The agricultural market could go one of two ways in the future: the long term demand may overcome short term market movements over the next two or three years meaning that the market continues to progress.” The economy remains in a precarious position with America’s recent credit rating downgrade, the financial implications of last month’s riots and the generally slow rate of economic growth. All these elements have combined to make it a tricky time for buying or selling property or land with one exception – the agricultural market. The value of agricultural land has trebled in the past decade, compared to a mere doubling of house prices. And this trend is predicted to continue well into 2012.
Record breaking prices
With prices topping an
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impressive £8,000 per acre, and prices rising by 2.8% between the months of April and June this year, areas of the national press are querying whether these current high prices can continue. The debate has focused on whether the high values achieved are a consequence of genuine demand, or whether the continued buoyancy is actually a consequence of the over enthusiastic actions of commodity traders in the world’s principal financial centres. Some European governments, including the UK have indicated a wish to see improved regulation of some of the more ‘imaginative’ financial instruments, which are seen by some to be artificially inflating commodity prices across the world. With global cereal stocks remaining low, these concerns have been echoed by organisations involved in promoting the supply of economically priced food, to developing countries, particularly the African continent.
The law of supply and demand
A number of factors are combining at present to sustain a strong requirement for land.
People are understandably nervous about investing their hard earned cash in the current uncertain economic climate. When compared to the performance of companies in the FTSE 100, buying land is seen by many as a more secure investment, especially when the traditional tax planning benefits are taken into account. At present, generous relief on death is still available on land; and with some judicious, well advised advance planning and accurate valuations, it is possible to avoid inheritance taxation almost completely.
Increasing costs offset by demand
Whilst farmers, like many businesses, have experienced steadily increasing costs over the last two years, there are factors in their favour. There’s no doubt that the global demand for food, particularly staples of wheat and corn and the secondary demand for meat products is likely to remain stronger than it has been for some considerable time. This year’s harvest has, for the most part, been a fair one for most UK farmers and rumours abound that the Russian and Eastern European harvest is actually better than expected. Furthermore, on a recent trip to Hungary for Andrew Granger & Co to inspect the country’s progress in the arable sector, huge leaps being made with mechanisation, input controls and drainage schemes were clearly evident.
The implications of global change
China and other eastern markets are seeing demand changes based on lifestyle
changes linked to higher standards of living. Cereal based foodstuffs, meat and meat products are likely to see improved and sustainable demand increases and lead to a firmer underpinning of the commodity market.
“The economy remains in a precarious position with America’s recent credit rating downgrade, the financial implications of last month’s riots.” The world is only just beginning to understand the longer term effects of the potential demand changes from these sectors, and the commodity market is seeing significant mood swings as a consequence. The end result is a volatile market, with concerns over rising input costs and a further review of the Common Agricultural Policy balanced by increasing long term demand, naturally optimistic farmers and the contradiction of a long term industry working in a market controlled by the short term commodity trading industry. In my opinion, this means that the agricultural market could go one of two ways in the future: the long term demand may overcome short term market movements over the next two or three years meaning that the market continues to progress. However, it looks likely that 2011 will prove to be the peak for bids for agricultural land funded by the agricultural industry. Whilst trends are difficult to predict, it seems probable that land prices will pause and flatten in the latter half of this year as the market stabilises and assimilates the effect of the continuing turbulent economy.
About the author
Andrew Robinson BSc (Hons) MRICS MARLA ICIOB, is a partner at Andrew Granger and Co, one of Leicestershire’s largest independent chartered surveyors and estate agents. A member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (UK), Andrew’s areas of expertise include the commercial and rural sectors, surveys and valuations, rating appeals and compensation claims. Andrew has also worked in the District Valuers Office.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Saltex
KIRKBY TYRES offers their widest range of turf tyres at Saltex Products for every application will be on show. irkby Tyres Ltd, from Speke, Liverpool will be showing a comprehensive display of Alliance and BKT tyres at Saltex 2011 (Stand No. R 27 A). The combined ranges of tyres and wheels for the turf and amenity markets makes Kirkby Tyres one of the largest suppliers of specialist tyres to the industry and one of the most competitive in the marketplace. Kirkby Tyres have been the sole UK & Ireland agents for the extensive range of Alliance tyres for many years and have a proven record of performance and reliability in the amenity, agricultural and earthmover markets. A wide representative sample of amenity and turf
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tyres from Alliance will be exhibited at Saltex. Also from Alliance is the Farm PRO series – initially eight new radial tyres with new modern patterns. The latest tyre to be introduced by Alliance is the 885 – a budget priced, all fabric, flotation radial tyre for light duty applications. With a strong nylon and polyester casing the 388 has a directional tread pattern, rounded shoulders and robust lugs – giving good grip and self cleaning characteristics. BKT is one of the premier manufacturers of ‘Off Highway’ tyres, offering a wide range which covers turf care, ATV, agricultural, industrial and earthmover applications. A wide selection of BKT tyres for ATV’s and turf care can be seen on the
Farming Monthly September 2011
Kirkby stand. BKT can supply ‘Armaturf’ tyres with “ARAMID” belts which are puncture resistant. Armaturf tyres allow a flatter tyre tread with a wider tread contact area giving a long life and reduced turf damage. Kirkby Tyres also offer a full range of tyres, wheels and wheel assemblies for any fitment in the truck, rowcrop, trailer, wide-flotation, hi-speed, low ground pressure, agricultural, amenity, earthmover and industrial markets. GKN one of the World’s leading manufacturers of off highway and agricultural wheels has chosen Kirkby Tyres as one of their UK partners for the O/E and replacement market in the UK and Ireland. Their product spectrum ranges from 12 – 16 inches. GKN is well known as a supplier to major OEM’s including JCB and many other
market leading trailer and implement manufacturers worldwide. Tony Rosenthal Head of Kirkby Tyres O/E wheel division commented: “We are pleased to be working with a wheel manufacturer that shares the same core quality and exacting standards as ourselves. Combining this with the range of agricultural tyres in Alliance, BKT and Michelin that we stock, we are able to supply a built up unit for almost every application” For more information or any general sales enquiries please contact the Sales Team on: 0870 242 8800 sales@kirkbytyres.co.uk www.kirkbytyres.co.uk
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Saltex
A great deal of hedge trimmers New models. Comprehensive range. Bonus Kit promotion. he hedge trimming season is upon us and no matter the size of garden and scale of the task, the comprehensive STIHL range of electric, petrol and cordless hedge trimmers means there is a high powered assistant available for every job. There is also no better time than the present to buy a STIHL hedge trimmer, with a range of Free Bonus Kits on offer with selected hedge trimmers until 30th September 2011. Bonus Kit goodies include a cap, torch, safety glasses and secateurs offered with each model in the promotion; buy one of the petrol hedge trimmers included and their great Bonus Kit is worth more than £60. Easy to use new electrics The STIHL electric hedge trimmer range has expanded this season with two new entrylevel models STIHL HSE 42 and HSE 52. Priced from just £119.00 (RRP), the new trimmers’ enduring performance and great cutting edge are sure to impress. What makes them even more appealing, they are among the eight electric models included in the promotion, all offering over £30 worth of Bonus Kit absolutely free. The new STIHL HSE 42 and HSE 52 hedge trimmers have been specifically developed for comfort in use; by minimising weight and designing a wellbalanced and ergonomic
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machine, they are very pleasant to handle. Left and right-handed use of the trimmers is possible thanks to the front handle’s wrap-around design which also allows users to comfortably change their grasp to trim both vertically and horizontally. Further benefits include safety features like the dual switch system which means the trimmers will only work with both hands on the controls, and their quiet performance which makes them ideal for use in noisesensitive areas. Low noise they may be, but they are certainly not low on performance, with their double sided cutter blades delivering a quick and clean cutting edge. Light in weight but not lightweights : new petrol hedge trimmers STIHL’s petrol hedge trimmer range now includes two of its lightest ever petrol models; the new HS 46 C-E and HS 56 C-E weighing in at just 4.3kg and 4.5kg respectively. What is important is that the weight loss has been achieved without compromising power, quality or performance; these models feature many design initiatives that ensure they are a pleasure to work with. Their easy starting innovation for example, means they start easily and reliably in just three simple steps and includes the gentle pull-start
benefits of STIHL ErgoStart. The new STIHL hedge trimmers are driven by the fuel and eco-efficient STIHL 2-MIX engine, which delivers plenty of power to tackle thick material like hawthorn or beech, and breeze quickly and efficiently through a fine conifer hedge. Sharp high quality cutters have an ultra-sharp edge; the HS 46 C-E has a 55cm (22") long cutter bar – perfect for everyday gardeners, whilst the HS 56 C-E is ideal for landowners and larger scale jobs with its longer 60cm (24") cutter bar and blades that are sharpened on both sides. These excellent light weight power tools are included in the STIHL petrol hedge trimmer promotion along with two serious professional models: HS 81 TC-E and HS 81 RC-E. Buy any of these before the end of September and receive a top of the range Free Bonus Kit worth over £60. Cordless hedge trimmers : part of STIHL’s new cordless range STIHL entered the cordless market two years ago with two battery-powered hedge trimmers whose success led the way for its complete new cordless range. STIHL cordless equipment is outstandingly powerful and easy to use; it has numerous other benefits such as being clean and very quiet, emissions- and cable-free. With a bar length of 50 cm (20"), the STIHL HSA 65 cordless hedge trimmer simply powers through
branches up to 22mm in diameter. Its larger brother, the HSA 85 has a 62cm (25") cutter bar and offers a professional performance standard – ideal for landscapers and public gardens for example. STIHL’s cordless hedge trimmers have been roundly praised since their launch; users enjoying their quality, performance and endurance in use. Endurance comes from the STIHL lithium-ion battery packs – a technology that means batteries can be charged, recharged and semi-charged many hundreds of times without any significant loss in performance; and which delivers great and consistent power to the hedge trimming tool.
Bonus Kit goodies include a cap, torch, safety glasses and secateurs. Users can select from a choice of batteries and chargers; with a two-battery package and Quick Charger option, one battery can be charging whilst the other is in use so a hedge trimmer will keep going all day long. The batteries are fully interchangeable across the complete STIHL cordless range, so once users have one they can use it to power any of the five cordless power tools. The STIHL cordless hedge trimmers are both included in the current hedge trimmer promotion – giving a Free Bonus Kit worth over £40 with each model bought.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Tillage
Tillage-Live cultivates new establishment ideas Tillage-Live, the National Cultivations Demonstration, to be held on 14th September near Abingdon, Oxfordshire
illage Live is the UK’s largest event that focuses on all aspects of crop establishment The comprehensive demonstration provides a unique opportunity to not only see all the latest equipment at work, but also discuss new ideas with industry-leading experts in the new Knowledge Trail. There is even the chance for suitably qualified operators to drive the latest sprayers in a special area as well as gain 'hands-off' experience of using guidance and auto-steer equipped tractors and machines. “Tillage-Live is organised by the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) on behalf of
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the industry,” says Duncan Russell AEA Services manager and event organiser. “Supported by many of our members, it allows visitors to talk to staff from these companies who know the machines best and have vast experience of how the equipment operates. This means the event not only provides access to the experts from all the major cultivation equipment companies, but from some leading tractor makers as well.” The realistically-sized working plots – from 0.5ha to 3ha – allow visitors to see the latest machines at work in fresh ground and feature range of equipment from ploughs and power-harrow/drill combinations
Farming Monthly September 2011
right through to the latest min-till cultivators, drills and direct drills. At the same time a new demonstration arena offers the opportunity for visitors to see a range of machines running one after the other. The Knowledge Trail, with five Action Areas offers the opportunity for visitors to gain four valuable NRoSO and four BASIS points by providing indepth
information on a range of important cultivation and establishment topics, which include: - Cultivates best blackgrass control - Herbicide performance - Focus on container cleaning - Best Practice pelleting - Focus on soil structure - Controlled Traffic Farming
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Cereals
B. W. Mack (Machinery) Limited Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 0AL Tel: 01366 324256 Fax: 01366 324431
Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon, Leicester LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191 Fax: 01530 249199
Craggs Of Condor Green Thurnham Mill Buildings, Condor Green, Lancaster, Lancashire LA2 0BD Tel: 01524 751405 Fax: 01524 752378
Day & Coles (Agricultural) Limited Park Farm Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Tel: 01933 673900 Fax: 01933 675858
E.A. Clayton Limited Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton On Tees, Cleveland TS21 1EB Tel: 01740 630254 Fax: 01740 631097
P & D Engineering Fleet Lane, Bredon Tewkesbury, Gloucester GL20 7EF Tel: 01684 772912
Keith Davies Agricultural Hem Manor Farm, Hem Lane, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840
Romsey Agricultural Machinery Limited Shorts Farm,Romsey, Hampshire, SO5151 6DX Tel: 01794 323159
TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310
Yorkshire Handlers Limited Unit 4-5, Fryors Close, Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel: 01904 489988 Fax: 01904 489061
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Farming Monthly September 2011
Tillage
Merlo at Tillage Live 2011 Once again, Merlo UK will be amazing the visitors to the Tillage event with the unique Multifarmer.
isitors will see that it is possible to combine the lifting performance of a telehandler with the draft work of a tractor. As magazine and user tests have shown, this machine is a jack-of-all-trades; but is also the master! The secret is the Multifarmer’s twin oscillating axles. Both front and rear axles (made by Merlo) are free to swing laterally about a central pivot. A hydraulic cylinder
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restrains each one. In ‘TRACTOR’ mode, the front axle is free whilst the rear is locked; just like a tractor. It can, however, still be adjusted for level with the hydraulics – very useful when turning in the headlands. A 4300kg threepoint linkage and full power mechanical PTO complete the kit. In ‘HANDLER’ mode, it’s the front one that is locked. That means that, unlike a tractor, the
full sideways stability of a handler can be used. That’s why the Multifarmer has a full 3000kg capacity and either 6m or 8.55m lift heights (depending on the choice of boom), which is quite impossible for a tractor/loader combination. The result is a very capable 3 tonne handler and a 120HP tractor, with a full hydrostatic transmission. And, Tillage Live is YOUR chance to try one!
NRoSO points for taking the Tillage-Live Knowledge Trail NRoSO has awarded the event four points for technical content. our NRoSO points are available to sprayer operators following the new Knowledge Trail at Tillage-Live, which provides the latest advice on blackgrass control techniques, slug pelleting precision, best container rinsing practice as well as information on cultivation regimes. NRoSO has awarded the event four points for the technical content of Tillage-Live, the National Cultivations Demonstration, which is being held on 14th September at Landmead Farm, East Hanney, Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Four BASIS points are also available. Alongside the usual array of the latest working machinery the new Knowledge Trail, with distinct Action Areas, adds further technical information and advice from UK leading experts.
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Features include:
Cultivate best blackgrass control: Latest BASF-funded
blackgrass dormancy results from Sarah Cook of ADAS, who will also be the implications on timing and choice of control options this autumn. She will also be previewing Dow-funded grass weed germination work, which will be released later in the season.
Herbicide performance:
Prof. Paul Miller, the UK’s leading application scientist, is explaining herbicide performance in different moisture levels in min-till seedbeds. At Tillage-Live he will be replicating the typical worked ground and different trash levels.
Focus on container cleaning:
Detailed advice on best practice container rinsing and cleaning techniques will be demonstrated by Bill Taylor, an independent spraying expert. Here operators can also test their skills to assess just how effectively they are currently cleaning cans, and see how they
Farming Monthly September 2011
Best practice pelleting:
can improve their techniques.
Improving slug pellet application precision will help make the best use of limited metaldehyde resources as well as help protect the environment. Engineers from Spreader & Sprayer Testing (SCS) will be demonstrating how to service, set-up up and tray test applicators for the most accurate results and safe spreading.
Focus on soil structure:
Cultivation machinery expert, Philip Wright, will be digging a soil profile pit to explain how to identify compaction, its causes and how to use and set various implements to remedy problems. He will also provide advice on how best to prevent damage to the structure.
wheelways in fields and how setting up a system is much easier than many first imagine. Alongside the Knowledge Trail and working demonstrations two further arenas offer the opportunity to suitably-qualified operators to drive the latest sprayers as well as gain valuable hands-off practical experience of using guidance and auto-steer systems.
“NRoSO has awarded the event four points for the technical content of TillageLive, the National Cultivations Demonstration.”
Controlled Traffic Farming:
Tim Chamen, the UK’s leading expert from CTF Europe, explains the benefits that come from confining traffic to set
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Special Offer FREE Toothed Packer Roller
Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Telephone 01923 265211
Brian Robinson Machinery Limited East Cowton, Near Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Telephone 01325 378552
A14 Telford Road, Bicester OX26 4LD Telephone 01869 329988
Romsey Agricultural Machinery Limited Shorts Farm, Sherfield English, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6DX Telephone 01794 323159
Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Telephone 01582 727111 Nigel Quinn (AMS) Limited 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston, Lancashire PR4 6JR Telephone 01704 822272
Brockhills of Yorkshire Dalton Lane, Dalton Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 3HR Telephone 01845 577242
Wilfred Scruton Limited Maxwell House, Riccall Grange, King Rudding Lane, Riccall York YO19 6QL Telephone 01757 249799 Providence Foundry, Foxholes, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 3QQ Telephone 01262 470221
Tillage
Ploughing Helps to Reduce Black Grass Plant becoming resistant to key chemical control methods leading to joint company trial. lack grass is becoming one of the single biggest threats to cereal production in the UK. The plant is becoming reistant to key chemical control methods, and numbers are increasing. 100 black grass ears per square metre, can reduce wheat yield by 1t/ha. That could equate to £200 per hectare. LEMKEN and Masstock are working together to find out how crop establishment method affects black grass populations. Started in autumn 2010, the trial will run for 5 years monitoring black grass populations
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according to crop establishment method. The trial is fully replicated, and conducted on a site which has a black grass population of up to 1,500 plants per square metre. The graph below shows black grass ear counts in year one. Ploughing has achieved 99% control of the plant, compared to the untreated part of the field. A range of min-till and direct-drill treatments achieved between 90% and 98%. Yield information will be published on this web page after harvest.
Estimated costs of establishment are included on
the graph.
TL tackles trash Ideal for root crops and vegetables in lighter soils. imba Great Plains’ new tined TL is a linkagemounted cultivator designed primarily for use on lighter soils, and is expected to find a healthy market in rotations that include a proportion of root crops and vegetables. It features three rows of spring-reset cultivating tines that can work up to 300mm deep to incorporate large volumes of trash, such as potato haulm or the remains of field vegetables. In field trials the machine has worked well doing both primary and secondary cultivations in the autumn, and will also be suitable for
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performing spring cultivations of over-wintered stubbles to open them up and help them dry out and warm up ahead of spring drilling. The 3.0m version features ten cultivating tines, while the 3.5m version has 12 tines. Both have 300mm spacing between tines (900mm between tines on the same row). Working depth adjustment is controlled via the rear roller using a set of shims. The legs are fitted with bolt-on twisted chisel points and wings, and are followed by set of sprung levelling discs. Purchasers have a choice of two different rear rollers – either
a 540mm open cage roller or a set of 550mm DD Lites. A 3m machine with cage roller weighs 1.75 tonnes and needs between 120hp and 200hp depending on soil type and working conditions. The 3.5m model with the same roller weighs two tonnes. When fitted with DD Lites
Berthoud launch E-control package Available on Tenor and Reptor sprayers. erthoud has long reconised for innovation, due in part to their in-house design and engineering facilities for major components including onboard electronics and regulators. Their new EC Tronic control panel is availalbe on Tenor and Reptor sprayers, replacing the DP Tronic on these models. The new system simultaneously displays key information on a large, back-lit colour screen, including volume/Ha, litres applied and
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pressure, are treated, mix remaining in tank and work speeds. In fact everything the operator needs to see to ensure efficient spray application. Integrated with the sprayer's standard functions, EC Tronic also incorporates boom control and sprayer set up. EC Tronic stires key data for total tracebility. An optional E-Tech package adds auto guidance, GPS controlled auto boom shut off and variable rate application. A weather station faciltiy and
Farming Monthly September 2011
cameras will be available in the near future. EC Tronic is offered with an exclusive E-Pilot wireless and ergonomic designed joystick. This 15 function unit gives total control of all sprayer's hydraulic functions, general and sequentia spray opening/closing within a 10m+ range from the EC Tronic controller. 'We are excited about the new E-Controller' says Martin Shackcloth of Berthoud. 'It once more underlines Berthoud's
the machines weigh 2.25t and 2.6t respectively and needs between 140hp and 200hp. List prices are: TL300 with cage roller - £11,495; TL300 with DD Lite roller - £13,995; TL350 with cage roller - £13,445 and TL350 with DD Lite roller £16,445.
teechnical innovation with a product that will meet the needs of today's farmers and contractors...and tomorrow's' For further details please visit Berthoud at Tillage or contact Martin Shackcloth at Berthoud, tel. 01485 520626, www.berthoud.co.uk
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Bredy Agricentre Limited DORSET Tel: 01305 267151 www.bredy.co.uk
C. R. Willcocks & Co. Ltd. NEWTON ABBOT Tel: 01626 332444 www.crwillcocks.co.uk
Farmstar Limited MARR, DONCASTER Tel: 01302 786786 www.farmstar.co.uk
Farmstar Limited MKT WEIGHTON, YORKS Tel: 01430 875900 www.farmstar.co.uk
Farmstar Limited BRIGG, N.YORKSHIRE Tel: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk
Farmstar Limited LONG BENNINGTON, NEWARK Tel: 01400 283818
Ravenhill Limited HEREFORD Tel: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill-ltd.co.uk
Lower Quinton Garages Ltd STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Tel: 01789 720265 www.lqgltd.co.uk
Dairy
New RABDF Business Debates at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show The RABDF Business Debates Subheader
new series of business debates focusing on some of the hottest topics and relevant issues impacting on farming businesses within the livestock sector will be staged at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show held at The NEC, Birmingham on Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 September. Developed by the event’s organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, the topics scheduled include financing expansion, succession planning, cross compliance, joint venturing and energy sourcing options. The forum will also provide the platform for The Great Dairy Debate, featuring representatives from the dairy chain including NFUS’s Kenneth Campbell, First Milk’s Kate Allum, DairyUK’s Jim Begg and chaired by industry commentator, Ian Potter. Fresh Start’s Alison Rickett will discuss the raft of emerging opportunities for new entrants to get in to dairy farming and how some of them can be combined
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Tuesday 6 September
with an exit route for existing producers, while the benefits of joint venture farming will be explained by Tony Evans of the Andersons Centre. Avoiding the problems of cross compliance farm inspections will be discussed by Charles Mayson of Cross Compliance Solutions. The complexity of renewable options will be examined by Farm Energy’s Andrew Kneeshaw, while how to finance them along with other business expansion plans will be covered by Euryn Jones of Barclays, the event’s principal sponsor. RABDF chief executive comments: Nick Everington. “Farming is a dynamic business with new opportunities and issues emerging virtually every day. We are pleased to introduce these 20 minute RABDF business debates to the event featuring topics designed to provide livestock producers with take home ideas and information to help facilitate their decision making.
Time Topic Speaker Sponsor 11:00 & 14:00 How to get into and out Alison Rick ett Fresh Start of dairy farming 11:20 & 14:20 Cross Com pliance is Charles Cross Compliance getting tougher - make Mayson Solutions sure you are not the nex t one to be fined 11:40 & 14:40 Financin g your business Euryn Jones Barclays for expansion or renewables 12:00 & 15:00 The Gre at Dairy Debate NFU Scotland
Wednesday 7 September
Time Topic Speaker 11:00 & 13:20 The renewa Sponsor ble Andrew Kneeshaw Far m Energy options available to farmers and how to choose between them 11:20 & 13:40 Benefits of Joint Tony Evans The Andersons Venture Farming 11:40 & 14:00 Financin Centre g your Euryn Jones Barclays business for expansion or renewables 12:00 & 14:20 How to get into and Alison Rickett Fresh Start out of dairy farming 12:20 & 14:40 Cross Com pliance is Charles May son Cross Compliance getting tougher Solutions make sure you are not the next one to be fined
A Sensible Solution to Fodder for Livestock Self-contained growing system developed to provide optimum growing conditions for sprouting seed.
s farmers endure another difficult growing season, many are now looking at more reliable sources of forage to meet their feed demands. Fodder Solutions has introduced a revolutionary new system that will provide livestock owners with fresh, clean and reliable feed solutions, no matter what the weather, all year round. Fodder Solutions
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manufacture a specialised growing system that transforms dry, dormant grains, into a lush highly nutritious feed. The growing process takes 6 days and the system provides a consistent, daily supply of fresh feed. Whilst the feed may look like spring grass, on closer inspection it is much better. It contains as much energy as many popular pelleted feeds
Farming Monthly September 2011
and grains but with very little starch, the protein levels are comparable to any quality processed feeds and there is no waste. The Fodder Solutions system is a self-contained hydroponic growing system that has been developed to provide optimum growing conditions for sprouting seed. The seed used is high quality barley but other seed can be added to provide extra protein, starch and oil to meet specific requirements. The feed can improve milk yield and quality, daily weight gain, meat quality, fertility and general health of livestock. As so much feed can be produced in a small space, it can also help increase stocking rates. Simon Hughes, who farms 500 acres near Bromsgrove, West Midlands, says “I can honestly say both the cattle and pigs are doing brilliantly on the feed from the Fodder Solutions system. We used to struggle
with ringworm, but since they have been on this feed there is no sign of it. We are weaning at 6 weeks and putting them out to grass with it and they are doing really well. It has quickly become part of our routine – it is clean and easy to do and I wouldn’t go back to miller mixing!” The range of Fodder Solutions systems available will suit anyone from smallholders to large producers, providing a cost efficient and time saving feed solutions. The price of traditional forage looks set to remain high as farmers struggle to meet demand in the wake of last year’s poor yield. The Fodder Solutions system provides a realistic and viable alternative that takes the uncertainty out of providing good quality forage for your animals For more information, visit www.foddersolutions.co.uk, or call 024 7660 8088
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Dairy
GEA continued expansion results in relocation to Stoneleigh Park Tailor-made facility currently under construction in Warwickshire. EA Farm Technologies – the UK’s leading multi-service dairy equipment business, and the company behind marketleading brands such as WestfaliaSurge parlour equipment, farm chemical manufacturer AgroServe, Royal De Boer barn equipment and the Houle range of slurry handling equipment is relocating its UK headquarters to a tailor-made facility currently under construction at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire as a result of continued expansion in its’ core markets and following a major commitment given to the park by new estate managers LaSalle Investment Management PLC. Stoneleigh Park, previously referred to as the National Agricultural Centre, is home to the National Farmers Union, The Agricultural & Horticultural Development Board and a host of other industry organisations, and is currently in the throes of a £50m investment from LaSalle,
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which will transform the site into the “Harley Street” of the agricultural world, and “the right place to be for any company operating in this industry” according to GEA Farm Technologies managing director Paul Gerrard. GEA will be relocating its’ UK sales & distribution offices, product display areas, academy training centre and parts distribution for its’ UK operation. The office comprises the fully refurbished Plot 25 pavilion building (the former JCB stand of Royal Shows gone by), with a new storage facility connected via a link block to provide the company with a full, customer focused base at Stoneleigh Park. Design and project management are by the Warwick office of Corstorphine & Wright under the direction of Paul Hughes. “This investment will result in a far more professional-looking business, providing a one-stop-
shop for dairy farmers to discuss in detail the GEA range of equipment, products and services; giving us a convenient, central base for our dealers and sales force to be better and more continuously trained and developed, while also allowing us to concentrate our parts distribution into a far more efficient operation”, says Mr. Gerrard “Our objective is to deliver our Total Solutions Strategy, and this new investment will now allow us to provide that in the UK, whatever the scale or needs of each individual milk producer. Over recent years, GEA Farm Technologies has acquired many livestock orientated businesses and there are more on the cards. This means we are one of the fastest-growing, most committed agricultural supply chain businesses anywhere in the world and we have
comprehensively out-grown our current Milton Keynes premises”, he adds “This new facility will allow us to continue our growth and development.” Paul Hughes, Project Architect and Director of Corstorphine & Wright, commented: “The well-known, existing building will have its mainly glass appearance maintained, and the link block and extension will be faced in natural cedar and silver-coloured structural panels, creating a contemporary image sympathetic to the showground site. It will be a striking-looking building.” The building is expected to be completed late August, with GEA opening the doors for business on Monday 19th September.
Agriculture Minister to open the Dairy Event and Livestock Show 2011 The NEC Birmingham, 6 and 7 September griculture Minister, Jim Paice MP will officially open the Dairy Event and Livestock Show on Tuesday 6 September, the first day of the two day event to be staged The NEC, Birmingham by its organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers.
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“This year we will be taking every opportunity to talk to dairy and livestock farmers about our desire to support investment in their businesses.” After his official duties, he will tour the event, meet with farmers and some of the 480 trade exhibitors, before moving to the Livestock Hall where over 300 cattle exhibits representing seven different breeds will be competing in the new National
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All Breed Show and the major beef breeds will be represented in the New Smithfield feature. The Dairy Event and Livestock Show will also be welcoming delegations of international guests from over 23 countries and RABDF is optimistic that visitors, travelling to The NEC by car, train and plane from throughout the UK, will exceed last year’s 16,000 mark. RABDF chief executive, Nick Everington comments: “Relocating the UK’s largest specialist event in 2010 to The NEC with its large, modern, easy accessed venue, repositioned it from being a good farming show to a very professional exhibition reflecting the true worth of the industry. “All aspects of ruminant production – dairy, beef and sheep, will be covered by the exhibitors showcasing their
latest technology and innovations all of which have been designed to improve the sector’s efficiency, while colour coded product zones will enable visitors to rapidly locate their areas of interest and making it easier to do business.” Euryn Jones, national agricultural specialist at Barclays, the event’s principal sponsor adds: "Following the great success of our principal sponsorship last year, Barclays is delighted to continue our support for the Dairy Event and Livestock Show. This year we
will be taking every opportunity to talk to dairy and livestock farmers about our desire to support investment in their businesses. In addition to our usual support for farm investment and working capital, we are setting aside an additional £100 million to support investment in renewal energy projects on farms. I would also encourage visitors to attend the RABDF Business Debates, where on both days of the event we will be offering guidance on financing farming business for expansion or renewables.”
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Farming Monthly September 2011
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Contact your local dealer today: Lower Quinton Garages Limited WARWICKSHIRE 01789 720265
Bryan Hoggarth Limited CUMBRIA 01539 729569
Bryan Hoggarth Limited LANCASHIRE 01524 730004
HJR Oswestry SHROPSHIRE 01691 610177
Day & Coles (Agri) Limited NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 01933 673900
Hayward United Farmers Limited SUFFOLK 01502 475111
Dairy
Schippers continue to grow Amalgamation of Rotech and Schippers is a positive move for farmers. chippers UK, one of the largest service suppliers for livestock farmers has seen their UK branch treble in size since taking over Rotech Livestock Equipment Ltd. Rotech, a firm based in Chichester, West Sussex specialised in artificial insemination-related products. With the amalgamation of Rotech and Schippers, Schippers UK are able to deal directly to the farmers, and can deliver a faster service as well as more competitive prices.
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“Schippers is already known throughout Europe as one of the largest service suppliers for the intensive livestock farmer.” Since the takeover in December 2010 Schippers UK, which is located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, it has taken on double the amount of staff as productivity increases. The newest specialised
representative is the ‘UK Pig Representatives’, dealing with everything to do with the pig industry, Nigel Bennet covers the UK. Nigel has been involved in all aspects of pig production, from managing a Nucleus unit for a breeding company for ten years. He has also worked as an International Production Specialist, working in Russia and the Ukraine, as well as looking after UK customers. Travelling across the UK Nigel says: “Schippers hopes to have more contact with the farmers, I think that a more hands on approach within the company will benefit both the client and us as, Schippers continues to grow.” Along with a growing UK office, Schippers has launched its new website (www.msschippers.co.uk), with important new features which will make it easier for farmers and other customers, to see the most up-to-date developments in farming, as well as an efficient way to order products and keep track of all your farming needs.
One of the Directors of Schippers and the Head of the UK Department, Harrie Schippers said: ‘This new site has been designed to help get you to exactly what you need with the minimum of fuss. A better lay out and a new improved search bar are just a few of the features now available.’ A family run firm, Schippers – whose slogan is ‘Passion for Farming’– has a "vast product range" for the livestock farmer and has been supplying European farmers for over forty years. Schippers is already known throughout Europe as one of the largest service suppliers for the intensive livestock farmer. They launched the Schippers UK branch in early 2008 making it the newest branch of the
Schippers group. Schippers UK are looking to continue to expand and are currently on the lookout for a dairy representative.
First stop for livestock tractors?...Kubota World-leading manufacturer showcases range of equipment at Event. isitors to The Dairy Event and Livestock Show looking for affordable, highly productive agricultural machines, should make a visit to Kubota's extensive stand, MA 312, top of their list. The world-leading manufacturer will be showcasing its flagship M130X and M9540 agricultural tractors, as well as the L3200 mid-range tractor and the popular RTV900 all-terrain utility vehicle. The highlight of the exhibition will be the M130X, which was unveiled last year. The 130hp model is the largest in Kubota's range and has been designed to offer a real alternative to both 'expensive' and 'economy' tractors. It features a fourcylinder engine, electronic fuelling and engine governing as well as Intelli-Shift 16 Speed transmission with eight-speed powershift and auto field/road modes. This can be enhanced with the new LA2253 loader, which has a lifting capacity of 2.1 tons to a maximum height of 4.1m.
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Alongside this will be the 95hp M9540, part of the M40 Series range of agriculutural tractors, which won the Silver medal at the 2009 Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) Machinery Awards. The M9540 combines a high power to weight ratio and excellent manoeuvrability to ensure maximum performance and efficiency. Moving into the mid-range market, Kubota will be exhibiting the L3200 tractor which has been designed for those who want a robust, straightforward standard tractor that offers excellent value for money. It is ideal for working around larger areas and offers exceptional productivity together with consistent, economic performance. And, like all Kubota machines, it's extremely easy to use. All of these tractors can be fitted with a variety of Kubotamatched attachments and large implements to allow them to handle a diverse range of tasks from ploughing, harrowing and
Farming Monthly September 2011
spraying to trailer and frontloader work. And because these implements are manufactured by Kubota, users are guaranteed optimum performance from their tractor. The tractor line-up will be complemented by the Benchseat Camo model from Kubota's range of five RTV900 all-terrain utility vehicles. It features a unique transmission system, advanced automotive type suspension, power steering and, thanks to the highest ground clearance in its class, this fourwheel drive vehicle is comfortable across even the most difficult terrain. "The Dairy Event and Livestock Show brings together everyone within the livestock sector from farmers and smallholders to large scale contractors and I'm certain that this popular event will draw a record crowd. As a result, we are looking forward to meeting with our existing agricultural customers as well as potential customers and showing them the new M130X as well as the
other products in the range," commented David Blackwood, Tractor and Groundcare Division Sales and Marketing Manager. Kubota is a world leading manufacturer that has been at the forefront of innovation for commercial tractors, groundcare equipment and ride-on mowers since first entering the UK market more than 30 years ago. The company's product portfolio now encompasses 24 tractor models between 12 and 130hp, 13 rideon mower models, which cater for domestic and professional users alike and five variants of the class-leading RTV900 allterrain utility vehicle. Kubota machines have a legendary reputation for quality, performance, reliability and ease of operation. This is backed-up by a national network of specialist dealers who provide the highest standards of advice and aftersales service. So if you want to find out more about Kubota's range of agricultural tractors and the RTV900, visit Kubota on stand MA 312, at The Show.
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Machinery
Efficient Power and Reverse Drive Puma CVX Farmer friendly advancements lead to savings in time and money - always good news for agri professionals. ase IH have a range of technologies designed to increase productivity and reduce costs for farmers including Efficient Power engines, VRS Guidance systems and a new Reverse-drive Puma CVX.
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Efficient Power
Case IH have the Puma, Puma CVX and Magnum ranges, which incorporate its Efficient Power technology that delivers lower fuel consumption and higher performance.
“Ideal for working a silage clamp, when mowing or harvesting, the change is quick and easy, allowing the tractor to be driven confidently in reverse for prolonged periods.” Efficient Power uses a wide range of technologies, especially in the tractor’s drive and control system, to improve productivity, comfort and efficiency. The central element is a new exhaust gas cleaning concept based on an SCR catalytic converter system. Developed in collaboration with Fiat Power Train Technologies, the innovative exhaust gas cleaning system is installed as a compact assembly between the engine and the exhaust. The SCR system ensures not only compliance with the stricter Tier 4a emission standards, but also substantially lower fuel consumption and
improved engine performance. The exhaust gases from the Case IH engines are now almost cleaner than the induction air and because of the optimised combustion process, the engine oil lasts longer and maintenance requirements are reduced. The SCR system works automatically and reliably, regardless of fuel quality. The user merely has to ensure that the urea solution (AdBlue) is routinely topped up. The engine power for all tractors fitted with EfficientPower is greater than in the previous models. In the Puma CVX 225 for example, the maximum power has been raised from 251 hp to 269 hp, more than 7%. At the same time the maximum torque has been increased from 1,025 Newton meters (Nm) to 1,160 Nm, an increase of 13%.
VRS Guidance systems
pass accuracy of 2.5cm. Ideal for operations outside of RTK base station coverage and those wanting low set up costs, this package enables an autoguidance complete machine to function to RTK levels anywhere in the UK without the need of a fixed or portable base station. Ideal for contractors, those working over a wide area and supplementing weak signal areas, VRS RTK was in operation on the Case IH working area at this year’s Grassland Event.
Reverse-drive Puma
A specially-developed Puma CVX tractor with Reverse Drive controls was shown earlier this year at Grassland. The Case IH approved modification has been undertaken by one of the brand’s engineering partners,
Kneidinger, in Austria. Ideal for working a silage clamp, when mowing or harvesting, the change is quick and easy, allowing the tractor to be driven confidently in reverse for prolonged periods with equipment that is too heavy for front-mounted linkage. The seat and MultiController arm of the Puma are simply rotated towards the rear of the tractor. A smaller, second steering wheel, mounted on a rail across the back of the tractor cab is then slid into place in front of the operator above a second set of foot controls.
“Designed to increase productivity and reduce costs for farmers.”
Precision farming is offering farmers great savings in fuel and input costs, as well as reducing the time taken to complete farming operations. The more accurate the positioning data, the greater range of operations that can be carried out, such as drilling, which requires a very accurate signal. Until recently only RTK base stations mounted around the farm have offered this level of accuracy but the latest VRS technology uses mobile phone coverage to carry correction signals and provides a pass-to-
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Farming Monthly September 2011
Cereals
Brian Robinson Machinery Limited East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552 Fax: 01325 378088 www.brianrobinson.co.uk
Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon Leicester, LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191
H. Curtis & Sons Stanton Wick Far, Pensford Bristol BS39 4DB Tel: 01761 490372 Fax: 01761 490004
David Henderson Tractors Limited Unit 12 Acomb Industrial Estate, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 4SA Tel: 01434 601966 Fax: 01434 605855
Sovereign Agricultural Services Victoria Yard, Hepworth, Holmfirth Huddersfield HD9 1TP Tel: 01484 689986
Mason Bros. The North Yard, Lampeter Velfrey, Narbeth, Pembrokeshire SA67 8UL Tel: 01834 831653
Short & Abbott Mill Road, Bridgerule, Holsworthy, Nr Bude, Devon EX22 7EL Tel: 01288 381485
Snowdonia Tractors Cefn Coch Uchaf, Cwmystradlin, Garndolbenmean, Gwynedd, LL51 9AZ Tel: 07961 800816
TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310
D.W. Toppin Limited Green Lane Workshops, Langworthy CA10 1NB Tel: 01768 881770 Fax: 01768 881070 E: info@dwtoppin.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
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Machinery
New sprayer heads John Deere’s trailed range Larger arable farms can benefit from the biggest model in the company’s trailed range, with the highest ever pump capacity and fitted with automated features designed to make spraying easier.
esigned specifically for larger arable farms, John Deere’s new R962i 6200-litre sprayer is now the biggest model in the company’s trailed range, with the highest ever pump capacity. Designed and manufactured at the Horst sprayer factory in the Netherlands, this high specification machine is equipped as standard with a
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number of intelligent and automated features designed to make spraying easier, more accurate, more efficient and more profitable. The R962i has been engineered for maximum stability under all spraying conditions. The main solution tank has a low-profile design with compact dimensions, despite its high capacity. An
optional wheel steering system provides accurate tracking on the headlands to reduce wheeling damage, and the new proportional steering control provides smoother operation and easier set-up in the field. Combined with the sprayer’s low centre of gravity, this hydraulic control system offers optimum stability and manoeuvrability, both in the field and on the road. Built on strong foundations, the R962i sprayer has a structurally rigid chassis featuring a malleable cast crossstructure, which spreads and dissipates chassis loads to ensure a long machine life. The machine is also equipped as standard with ProRoad axle suspension, a double-link
system featuring maintenancefree polyurethane dampers, and has a maximum transport speed of 40kph, even with a full tank.
“Powerful, high-capacity twin piston diaphragm sprayer pumps supply liquid at 560 litres/min for fast automatic filling and spraying.” A wide choice of durable steel spray booms is available, from 24 to 28m (double-folding) and 24 to 40m (triple-folding). These feature a central pendulum for boom levelling, the BoomGuard anti-yaw suspension system, vertical and horizontal boom breakaway
Derwent Road, Malton, North Yorks YO17 0NW Tel: 01653 695094 Fax: 01653 697979 Holme Road, Market Wighton, York YO4 3EW Tel: 01430 872421 Fax: 01430 872461
Agricultural Ltd
RBM
Clarborough Hill, Redford, Notts DN22 9EA Tel: 01777 704823 Fax: 01777 710299
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Westrum Lane, Brigg, Lincolnshire DN20 9EY Tel: 01652 650600 Fax: 01652 658180 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Edtate, Louth LN11 0WA Tel: 01507 617588
www.rbmagricultural.co.uk Farming Monthly September 2011
Machinery protection, and durable pivot points. The BoomGuard system also protects the spray boom during road transport by minimising shocks and vibrations through the folded boom, for increased boom life. The optional BoomTrac system provides perfect boom stability during spraying, by measuring the actual boom height 50 times a second and comparing this with the target height. When a difference occurs, BoomTrac automatically adjusts the spray boom height and boom tilt angle to ensure the optimum boom position, whether spraying in the field or turning at the headland. Originally designed for the 5430i self-propelled sprayer, the SolutionCommand automatic solution management system lets the operator accurately fill, agitate, spray and multi-cycle rinse the sprayer, and dispose of residues, at the push of a button on the GreenStar display. Alternatively, all the same liquid controls can be operated by a series of rocker switches protected by a sealed perspex panel on the front of the sprayer, which replaces the usual levers and valves. SolutionCommand is equipped as standard with AutoDilute, which allows the operator to select the appropriate rinsing or dilution programme on the display. This has been developed to meet the requirements of all EU legislation, and ensures that even less experienced operators can achieve good results every time. Powerful, high-capacity twin piston diaphragm sprayer pumps supply liquid at 560 litres/min for fast automatic filling and spraying. An optionally available centrifugal pump boosts filling capacity to 700 litres/min. For maximum productivity and accuracy, the R962i trailed sprayer can be equipped with the latest StarFire 3000 satellite receiver and advanced GreenStar 2630 touch-screen display. The StarFire receiver works at all accuracy levels (EGNOS, SF1, SF2 and RTK), and with both GPS and Russian GLONASS satellites. The standard 2630 display supports a full range of guidance, documentation, ISOBUS implement control and performance monitoring features; this and the multifunction joystick are the only two operator controls in the cab. The optional GreenStar 1800 display also offers ISOBUS
compatibility, and supports guidance systems from the entry level GreenStar Lightbar to hands-free AutoTrac. John Deere’s suite of i-Solutions includes Spray-toMap, a prescription mapping tool that enables the operator to spray variable rates of fertiliser or crop protection chemicals, following the creation of an application map on the office computer which can then be imported into the GreenStar 2630 display.
“The R962i has been engineered for maximum stability under all spraying conditions. The main solution tank has a low-profile design with compact dimensions, despite its high capacity.” SprayerPro automatic boom section control helps to minimise overlaps and misses, and avoid wasting valuable inputs. SprayerPro automatically switches the boom sections on or off when the operator leaves or enters a predefined area or the headland. The R962i is also equipped as standard with a range of other intelligent solutions for more accurate and efficient spraying. These include a tank fill calculator, a spray nozzle calculator and cross-flow check, overflow protection, digital tank level sensors for the rinse water and solution tanks, automatic pressure and flow sensor selection at low flow rates, droplet size indication for standard nozzles, programmable default valve settings to prevent overdosing after refills, a low tank level warning and agitation performance control. Using information from the tank fill calculator, the operator can swing out the generously sized PowrFill chemical inductor for safe and easy filling of liquids, powders and granular material from ground level. A spray gun at the hopper and special storage lockers for clean clothing or contaminated protective gear are standard, as well as a separate 20-litre fresh water wash tank. Further options include a BASF ECOMATIC closed chemical transfer kit for safe and convenient handling of chemicals in larger, refillable containers, and a 100 bar highpressure washer for cleaning the sprayer and boom.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Tong Peal launches new side eject box tipper
o ensure efficient, robust and reliable box tipping and to guarantee the handling process moves with optimum efficiency, Tong Peal, the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of handling and sorting equipment for the vegetable handling industry, has introduced a new side eject box tipper. The side eject box tipper has been specifically designed to keep a continuous flow of crop onto grading and washing lines, with minimal forklift movement and greater time efficiency. Capable of handling boxes up to 2 tonnes, once the tipper is loaded with a full box, an automatic control flow sensor ensures that as the box is tipped, crop is gently and evenly fed over a forward conveyor and onto the line. Once the box is emptied, the tipper returns the box to the loading position and the side eject mechanism pushes the box to the side, allowing the next box to be loaded. Like all Tong Peal tippers, the side eject tipper isfully automatic with light guards to meet the full safety requirements of EC legislation. To ensure complete and efficient emptying of boxes, the new tipper features the latest ram tipping mechanism design with enhanced linkage strength, allowing boxes to be tipped through a wider arc of up to 160°. The advanced design of the tipping mechanism also puts less strain on bearings and linkages, resulting in a stronger, more robust mechanism with significantly lower servicing and maintenance requirements. The 160° box tipping mechanism is also available
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on standard Tong Peal box or big bag tippers and the success of these tippers with UK and international customers has led to it being manufactured as part of the 2011 model of the side eject tipper. In addition to the 160° tipping mechanism, the 2011 model is manufactured with a new side eject mechanism based on a heavy duty chain and paddle construction that works by pushing the box across the floor of the tipper cradle until it meets a heavy duty rubber belted conveyor which takes the empty box away from the cradle and clear of the tipper, allowing it to be quickly and efficiently loaded with a full box. The new side eject mechanism is built on a robust, low maintenance design which can be manufactured to eject to either side of the tipper to suit the customer’s specific requirements. Simon Lee, sales manager at Tong Peal Engineering, comments: “The latest model of our side eject tipper is already proving very popular with growers and pack houses as not only does it tip a full 160° to fully empty boxes, the side eject mechanism means that the tipper can be continuously loaded and unloaded with significantly less forklift movement than a standard tipper - meaning the handling process moves quickly with reduced labour requirements and optimum efficiency.” The Side Eject Box Tipper is currently being used by Kent Potatoes Company in Kent. For further information visit www.tongpeal.com.
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Machinery
Kubota Mowers Cut Down Maintenance Time Kubota ride-on mowers make maintaining school playing fields child's play for contractors Lawns2Mow.
he company, which is based in Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire, added two Kubota ride-on mowers, an F2880 and a GR2100-II, to its fleet last year to help make light work of large turf maintenance jobs. Founded in 2006, Lawns2Mow employs two full time and two part time employees to undertake a wide variety of work from cutting private lawns and mowing grass verges to maintaining school playing fields. The company had used another manufacturer's machines, but when its largest ride-on mower was stolen, local dealer Sims Garden Machinery in Stratford-upon-Avon, recommended the Kubota F2880, part of the F Series Professional Outfront Mowers range.
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Impressed with the F2880's ability to mow large areas with ease, together with its value for money, Lawns2Mow owner, Dave Faulkner was quick to purchase the machine. He said: "As far as I’m concerned, it’s the bee’s knees. It can cover large areas in a very short space of time and because it’s a diesel, the fuel economy is excellent – it can run all day." Designed with groundsmen and greenkeepers in mind, the F2880 is fitted with four wheel drive (4WD) as standard and an impressive 28HP diesel engine. It also benefits from power steering, hydraulic mower lift, shaft driven mower and transmission. For maximum durability and power delivery, power to the outfront deck is transmitted via
shaft drive and the heavy duty two-range hydrostatic transmission system gives infinitely variable speeds up to 20km/h forward and 11km/h in reverse. What’s more, the Auto Assist 4WD works in both forward and reverse directions. This allows the rear wheels to free-wheel when turning, reducing the turning circle and minimising scuffing of the turf, and then returns the machine to 4WD when not turning to provide optimum grip. "I needed something strong, reliable and quick – and the F2880 has proved to be just that. It offers excellent straight line pace and because it’s road legal, we can simply drive it from one job to the next." And after seeing so many of his school customers being forced to close because of snow and ice last winter, Dave is now considering purchasing a snow plough attachment for the F2880. This would allow the company to clear paths and playgrounds quickly and efficiently so that schools could remain open. "Obviously for a contractor, turf maintenance is a seasonal business, so investing in a snow plough will increase its versatility and allow us to offer an additional service to our customers." Pleased with the F2880, Dave quickly purchased a second Kubota machine, the GR2100-II Diesel Garden Mower. Specifically designed for heavy duty use, it features Kubota’s latest generation diesel engine and direct grass collection and easy dump system, as well as power steering and a hydraulic deck lift. But what sets it apart from
the competition, is its Glide Steer technology, which allows the machine to turn more sharply than a conventional mower. As a result, the front tyres can turn upto 70 degrees, whilst the inner rear wheel is disengaged allowing it to run freely to eliminate turf damage. Once the wheels are straight again, the all-wheel drive is reengaged to provide traction. Servicing, maintenance and repairs are all provided by Sims Garden Machinery, though as Dave explains, he’s not had any call for repair work yet. He said: "I’ve not had a single problem with the Kubota machines. Other mowers break down all the time, so you lose money both in repairs and downtime, but with Kubota I can just turn the key and get on with my work. Without a doubt, I’d definitely recommend Kubota." Kubota provides a marketleading range of compact tractors and ride-on mowers, together with its class-leading RTV900 all-terrain utility vehicle and is the global leader in the sub 50hp tractor sector. Their machines have a legendary reputation for quality, performance, reliability, ease of operation and outstanding value-for-money and a national network of Kubota Tractor and Groundcare dealers, such as Sims Garden Machinery, provides the highest standards of advice and aftersales service. For more information about Kubota ride-on mowers, as well as its tractors and RTV900 allterrain utility vehicle, or to find your nearest dealer call Kubota Tractor and Groundcare on + 44 (0)1844 268000, e-mail sales@kubota.co.uk or visit www.kubota.co.uk.
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Lyndon Tucker
C&M Tractors Limited
Oldwalls Garage, Llanrhidian, Swansea, SA3 1HA Tel 01792 391007
Station Approach, Oakham, Rutland, Leicestershire, LE15 6QT Tel: 01572 722355
Farming Monthly September 2011
Newman Enterprize Ltd. The Gables, Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DT Tel 01793 853807 Mob 07435 780028
Stewart Morley The Workshop, Bonds Farm, Morley Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6BY Tel 01253 799124 Mob 07802 638385
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Machinery
Horticultural expertise meets New Holland technological excellence at Langmead Farms More than three hundred different New Holland machines in use.
angmead Farms is one of the most successful suppliers of leafy salad, spring onions and organics in Europe. The operation, which spans almost 5000 hectares across the farms in West Sussex, Kent and Spain, has developed rapidly over the last twenty years and now uses conventional and organic growing systems. It also uses more than three hundred different New Holland machines. The rapid expansion of the business began in 1986 when iceberg lettuce was first grown at the Chichester Farm. At the time there was a shortage of domestically grown lettuce in the UK, so the goal of Langmead Farms was to supply supermarkets, wholesalers and markets with a consistent and reliable high quality iceberg lettuce between the months of May and November.
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Over the years, as Langmead Farms has become a leader in the salad producing industry, it has also become a pioneer in terms of the innovative use of machinery and technology. And for this vitally important aspect of the business, Langmead Farms turns to its technology partner, New Holland. Langmead Farms has been using New Holland technology for forty years. Duncan Marston, Langmead Farms’ engineering development manager says that New Holland machines, through the New Holland dealership C&O Tractors Ltd, were originally chosen – and still used extensively across the farms – for their value for money and reliability: “The T7000 series of tractors are the best on the market. They give us little or no trouble and produce an outstanding
performance. We have approximately 300 different units in and around the business, in all areas, carrying out all operations, from triple bed making and triple robo hoeing to specialist harvesting rigs and hauling tractors. We work closely with New Holland, specifying tractors for each application. We choose different gearboxes, hydraulic pressures, flow rates, lift capacities and wheel size configurations. The flexibility of the range enables us to pick and choose options to suit each application.” Duncan says many of the machines are adapted for highly specialised tasks: “Our most complicated set ups are some of the harvest rigs. We drive the tractor backwards down the field carrying a 12m wide canopy with an automatic flow-wrapper and lettuce handling system. The front tractor is then used to tow a work station (a mobile pack house) as well as to power a PTO generator.” In terms of future New Holland applications, the farms are looking towards Precision Land Management and the plan is to introduce New Holland’s PLM this year: “We want to use it on four of the tractors. The New Holland
PLM system will enable us to use machines up to their full width, reducing compaction, diesel consumption, labour and wearing parts. “We plant our lettuce in irrigation pulls 56 metres wide and up to 500 metres long and the PLM enables us to use the land economically, avoiding the cultivation and preparation of areas which are not going to be used.” With the close partnership that has grown up between Langmead Farms and New Holland, it’s no surprise that the relationship is now a strong and communicative one. Duncan says the issues, when they occur, are pretty quickly resolved: “We have a very good relationship with C&O Tractors, the New Holland dealership. Our local branch looks after our tractors so we’re able to get problems solved quickly and effectively. They are flexible, so we can swap wheels, parts, front linkages, etc. around quickly if the need arises. Tractors are a huge part of our business and New Holland provides us with huge options from their large range – and of course, as I said before, they are reliable and cost effective.”
Farming Monthly September 2011
Contact your local dealer today: Redlynch Agri Engineering Ltd Deverell Farm, Milborne St. Andrew, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0HX Tel 01258 837166 www.redlynchtractors.co.uk
Redlynch Agri Engineering Ltd Redlynch, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NH Tel 01749 812628 www.redlynchtractors.co.uk
Brockhills Of Yorkshire Dalton Lane, Dalton, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 3HR Tel 01845 577242 Mobile 07792 510204
J J Farm Services Limited Far Stanley, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5HF Tel 01242 620631 www.jjfarm.co.uk
Machinery
18m into one with new DISCO Autoswather Provides the operator with a wide choice of options depending on crop conditions.
o provide users with greater flexibility, CLAAS has introduced a new Autoswather version of the 9.10m wide DISCO 9100 C triple ‘Butterfly’ mower combination, which can allow 18m of grass to be put into a single swath.
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“Drive to the discs is through a smooth running, low-wear transmission with an individual drive to each cutting disc. The discs themselves are set lower for a cleaner cut and smooth crop flow, and are mounted in a new high strength sealed double tapered bearing assembly.” Autoswather units fitted to the two outer mower units on the new DISCO 9100 C provide the operator with a wide choice of options depending on crop
conditions and the following operation. The introduction of this new addition to the CLAAS triple mower range follows an extensive testing programme, including heavy crops in Ireland during the past two years. Using the CLAAS COMMUNICATOR or any other ISOBUS compatible control terminal, each of the Autoswather units can be individually engaged and controlled, and the required settings can then also be activated via the tractor’s headland management system. Whilst potentially in heavy crops both the Autoswather units can be lifted out the way to allow the crop to be evenly spread across the full 9.1m mowing width for maximum wilting, the ability to engage either one or both units provides a wide range of options as to how the crop is left for subsequent rowing up. One particularly useful application is
the ability to move grass away from the headland to make it easier for rowing up. Also, in two consecutive passes the outside grouper can be activated to allow the 12.2m LINER 3500 to gather 18m of grass into a single swath As with all CLAAS DISCO triple mowers, each mowing unit is equipped with the P-CUT cutterbar that is designed to provide an extremely even and clean cut, with optimum contour following. The outer units feature an automatic breakback system which due to the 15 degree mounting of the pivot arm, means that when an obstruction is hit, the whole mower unit swings back and lifts to avoid potential damage. Each of the mowing units is fitted with the CLAAS ACTIVE FLOAT hydro-pneumatic suspension system, which as ground conditions vary enables the operator to adjust the suspension and ground pressure from the cab, in order to ensure a clean cut and minimise the risk of soil contamination. Drive to the discs is through a smooth running, low-wear transmission with an individual drive to each cutting disc. The discs themselves are set lower for a cleaner cut and smooth crop flow, and are mounted in a
• Benthall Brosley, Shropshire • Craven Arms, Shropshire • Docklow, Herefordshire • Tarvin, Cheshire
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new high strength sealed double tapered bearing assembly. The P-CUT cutterbar itself is manufactured from highstrength steel and incorporates robust cutterbar skids with Hardox inserts between each skid. The underside of the cutterbar also incorporates a series of groves that funnel away any build-up of soil for a cleaner cut.
“Autoswather units fitted to the two outer mower units on the new DISCO 9100 C provide the operator with a wide choice of options depending on crop conditions and the following operation.” The mowing units incorporate the unique SAFETY LINK drive protection system and are fitted with CLAAS Quick Change Knives that allow the knives to be changed without using tools. The new DISCO 9100 C Autoswather also features hydraulically folding guards, magnetic hose holders and for storage can be parked in the transport position.
Tel: 01952 881000 Tel: 01588 673325 Tel: 01885 488884 Tel: 01829 749391
Farming Monthly September 2011
Anker Of Coates
Eldernell Lane, Coates, Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777
Units 15-17, Brook Farm, Ellington, Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk
Bredy Agricentre (Dorset) Limited
Louds Mill, St Georges Road Dorchester DT1 1PH Tel: 01305 267151 www.bredy.co.uk
Farmstar Limited
Grove Farm, Church Lane, Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU Tel: 01302 786786
Becklands Park Ind Est., York Road, Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA Tel: 01430 875900 Bridge Street, Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF Tel: 01652 654944
J.T. Friskney Limited
17-29 West Street,Horncastle Lincolnshire LN9 5JE Tel: 01507 523233 Dealers For Central Lincolnshire Tel: 01205 361281
Ravenhill
Beech Business Park, Tillington Road, Hereford HR4 9QJ Tel: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill-ltd.co.uk
Sharnford Tractors Ltd
Lodge Farm,Broughton Road, Frolesworth,Lutterworth Leicestershire,LE17 5EH Tel: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk
On topic
On Topic Ecology meets Economy Peterson Sawmills
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Bananas and sawmills save the planet Mike Hillard utilises Peterson Sawmill to great effect.
ike Hillard owns a company called Tranquility Houses Ltd, in Stroud, Gloucestershire. In his eco-friendly home that costs only £60 to heat per annum, he grows bananas in his Solar Room while it‟s –8 degrees outside. Mike has now turned his attention to the efficient recovery of old trees, with an environmentally friendly portable sawmill.
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“I am hugely impressed with the Peterson WPF and have realised it is truly an environmental mill.” Fundamentally, Mike is an academic researching the Environment and then finding ways to minimise our impact on Planet Earth. He spent most of the 15 years from 1994 to 2009 researching important resources to determine the truth about how precarious our lives are and what needs to be done to protect our environment. Subjects such as „Climate Change‟, „Energy‟, „Food‟, and „Population‟ are only a few that Mike has written and published substantial papers on. Other entities such as KPMG, MENSA magazine, and Jim Hansen of NASA have either endorsed or concurred with his findings. Having understood the scale of the environmental problems we faced, Mike then built the lowest energy house in the UK (Tranquility House). The results can be found on his website www.tranquilityhouses.org.uk. To achieve this, Mike needed to constantly seek improved performance until he could not cost-effectively go any further. A
major documentary film maker is currently interested in making a 4 x 1hr series on Mike‟s housing project. However Mike has first been asked to build a new one and retrofit an existing house within a mere 6 months. The new build will include even more advanced solutions than in Tranquility, as Mike now knows how to improve on it‟s energy efficiency ratings even further. Mike also traced the source of timbers used in the whole building process. As Mike explains “I know we must make the very best use of every single tree that is felled. But unfortunately many trees in the UK and around the world are put to little or no use when felled. We bizarrely import rainforest timbers when we have lots of terrific timber here, just left to rot or chopped into firewood. Even worse as is often the case, many trees are just piled on huge treefuneral pyres and simply burnt. The bigger sticks (logs) often cost more to turn into firewood than they are worth”. Therefore Mike knew a portable sawmill was the ultimate solution, but it had to be one with a great amount of versatility as well as efficiency. Mike says “Many of the sticks (logs) we receive are relatively huge with many over 1m in diameter, some up to 1.5m diameter. We were initially expecting to acquire a „Timberking‟ B2400 bandsaw mill, but it was then suggested we consider a Swing Mill, and especially a Peterson. It so happened a local owner of a WPF no longer needed his and was looking to sell it so I went down to test run it and find what it could do”. After successful trials with the machine, Mike‟s company bought it. And he has since received great pro-active support in many ways from the UK agents – Log Logic. Mike reports “Log Logic
were very good; they were very helpful and informative with their advice and training”. So Mike is now taking sticks from often prestigious places and turning them into beautiful products – so far mostly flooring and Dining Tables. Mike‟s prime sources of sticks are The National Arboretum in Westonbirt, the National Trust, major estates, and other local woods. Prince Charles‟s Duchy of Cornwall has recently asked if they could supply Mike. In every case, Mike knows precisely where the tree grew and why it was felled, so the provenance is as good as it gets. No tree is taken if felled purely for profit. Recently the entire avenue of Aesculus Hippocastanums at the National Trust „Barrington Court‟ had to be felled as it had bleeding canker. Mike took all the bottom butts and converted them into some of the most gorgeous products he or most have seen. “Everybody drools over it”. As Mike‟s project nears maximum efficiency, the entire process from standing tree to finished product will often need no more than 20 miles of transport. Even the kiln drying will be powered by waste timber from the milling. Mike spoke of a particular job, “Two weeks ago Prince Charles gave us a native British Poplar which had been felled due to rot in the butt. The tree was located on Broadfield Farm in Tetbury, which is Prince Charles‟s main production farm. It was over 11m long and 1.35m just above the butt end. We cut it into 4 shorter logs before milling. At that time we had worked the new mill for two short days and one longer one. We had to wait for the farm telehoist to put the remaining logs in place so we only managed
Farming Monthly September 2011
On Topic
“On the band saw we have been using, we needed to cut 20 or 21mm boards to produce 12mm finished flooring.” So where to from here? Mike is already speaking of the future “I am very impressed with the WPF we are now using, but want to perfect the operation. I am sure we will want the automated ASM model in the not too distant future as pushing the WPF to achieve this volume on a continuous basis is demanding, and my personal time is too valuable to spend much time milling.” When asked to compare timber recovery efficiency, Mike provided some interesting statistics “I am hugely impressed with the Peterson WPF and have realised it is truly
an environmental mill. At first sight having a 5.8mm kerf against about 3mm for a band saw seems seriously bad news – but it isn‟t. On the band saw we have been using, we needed to cut 20 or 21mm boards to produce 12mm finished flooring. But the milling accuracy on the Peterson will allow us to cut 17mm boards from the start. Therefore the log yield, even for such thin milling, is about the same for both machines. Another benefit is that we are using less power and ending with less waste. We are now air and kiln drying considerably thinner boards from the onset, which dry faster and use a lot less kiln energy to bring them below 10%. And it doesn‟t stop there. When you are machining fatter boards through a 5 cutter, the rate at which the planing waste builds up is a big issue. With the more efficient Peterson boards, that waste is almost exactly halved. So well done; a great piece of equipment, and all who have so far seen us using it are extremely impressed. I doubt The Duchy will buy one though, as ours will surely now mill everything they want!” Mike also has quite a number of photos of Tranquility House, and exhibited at the NEC
(National Exhibition Centre) in April where they were on display. Mike says “We make a big deal about the fact we do go all the way 'from the forest to the floor' which makes most customers smile. People love the notion we can tell them exactly where each tree grew”. For more information you can visit Mike‟s website at www.tranquilityhouses.com or contact Mike on phone 01453 872840 or email contactus@tranquilityhouses.com
For more information or quote on a Peterson sawmill in the UK, you can contact Graham at Loglogic at www.loglogic.co.uk, email contact@loglogic.co.uk or phone (01884) 839 999. Alternatively you can reach Petersons‟ New Zealand factory direct for technical advice or to view their full range of portable sawmills at www.petersonsawmills.com, akalan@petersonsawmills.com, or Freephone 0800 028 0863 before 10am UK time.
On Topic
about 6 hours actual milling on the last day. BUT we milled about 6.3m3 of log (2 of them) in that time. There were two of us manning the operation – one removing the boards and me milling. All the boards milled were either 18mm for flooring; 39mm for dining table tops, or 85mm for the table legs. I was extremely impressed with the production as I assumed we would not achieve a good volume when cutting so many thin boards. And that was on only our 3rd working day!”
The Creating Climate Wealth UK summit Reducing carbon change is a business opportunity like any other, and one that is in our grasp.
ver 50% of the climate change challenge can be addressed today — and profitably — with the technology we have available and within the framework of policy conditions we have here in the UK.
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“British businesses can thrive whilst challenging climate change.” Environmental issues are seen as contrary to business interests, being costly and
inhibitive, requiring large-scale change. The Carbon War Room has been founded to challenge these misconceptions. Reducing carbon change is a business opportunity like any other, and one that is in our grasp. The Creating Climate Wealth Summit, co-presented by the Carbon War Room and The Long Run Venture, is about identifying the barriers preventing businesses and industries from seizing the initiative in carbon reduction. The purpose is to identify ways to increase flows of capital into low carbon technologies, in ways that achieve gigaton scale reductions. We call the event a summit for a reason. Creating Climate Wealth is about solving problems; you will not simply
Farming Monthly September 2011
be sitting sedately in a lecture hall, but an active participant in discussions with the best and brightest professionals from a diverse array of fields. The goal is to create a roadmap for change; a practical and achievable plan for the future. As with our powerful and engaging conferences in Washington D.C. and Sydney, we have identified seven fields in which British businesses can thrive whilst challenging climate change. They are: Aviation and Renewable Fuels, Energy Efficiency and the Built Environment, Financial Innovation in the City, Land Transportation and Service Fleets, Shipping and Ships, Smart City Systems, and Sustainable Agriculture. At the Summit in September, we hope you will join us to be part of
finding cleantech solutions for our future. To find out more about the event and the campaign, visit www.creatingclimatewealth.co mor www.carbonwarroom.com
“Environmental issues are seen as contrary to business interests, being costly and inhibitive, requiring large-scale change. The Carbon War Room has been founded to challenge these misconceptions.”
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News
The all-new British-built Wessex Country LS100 logsplitter Take the hard work out of splitting your logs. ith the arrival of colder weather upon us and homeowners across the UK looking to reduce fuel costs, the comforting warmth of the woodburning stove and crackle and glow of the open fire are back in vogue. However, the old saying of “wood warms you twice” has been well proven by anyone with experience of laborious and back-breaking hours wielding a splitting axe, or worse – the sledgehammer and splitting wedge, which invariably pings off the log at shin height. 2kg of metal connecting at speed with the lower limb is not an experience to be relished. So the arrival of the new Wessex Country LS100 log splitter is well-timed, as well as
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well-priced. Simple in design, rugged in construction – as you’d expect from a Wessex product – and low in cost, the LS100 is the perfect partner for any compact or large tractor with a category 1 three-point linkage. With a powerful hydraulically-powered vertical ram providing up to 10 ton of splitting pressure, logs of up to 18” in height are split and processed with ease, while the floor-level platform means that loading larger logs onto the splitter is safe and simple. “We’ve kept the design simple and the price low, but in no way at the expense of quality”, declares Steve James of Broadwood International, manufacturers of Wessex products. “This unit is built tough for a tough task, and as
you’d imagine it complies with all regulations, incorporating two-handed operation for extra safety.” Designed and built in the UK, and available from dealers nationwide.
Contact Broadwood International on 01420 478111 or email for info: sales@broadwoodintl.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
ATV
Are you a PROUD Polaris owner?...Yes?...Then do we have news for you! New online portal will satisfy your parts requirements. he Quad centre in Buckingham is proud to be the very first ATV dealer in the UK to offer a specialist Polaris parts website with full ecommerce capabilities. Simply put your part number into our new search box, add it to your cart and buy with a credit or debit card using our secure checkout process. Then just watch for the postman in a day or two and “Voila!” Shiny new Polaris parts direct to your door at fantastic prices!
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“Follow us on Twitter or Facebook for even more subscriber only offers, see the website for more details.” Not sure which part you need? We offer friendly advice at the end of the phone, or you can email for a fast response. Just give us a ring and we can help
you find the perfect part to get your perfect machine up and running in no time. Why not add a workshop manual or service items to your order while you are at it? We’ve got those too! So why have we decided to spoil you all with this new website? Mark, our boss has been thinking long and hard about the stresses of everyday life and realised that if he doesn’t have time to do everything from 9-5, a lot of our customers probably don’t either, so the new website enables you to buy any Polaris part 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To ensure the new site starts with a bang, we are even offering free shipping on all orders over £100 (exc vat) so be quick and take advantage of this great introductory offer, or sign up and follow us on Twitter or Facebook for even more subscriber only offers, see the website for more details.
Farming Monthly September 2011
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ATV
Day & Coles Agricultural Ltd
D.H. Wadsworth & Sons
Southam Agricultural Services
Newton Close, Park Farm, Wellingbourgh, Northants NN8 6UW
204 Barnsley Road, Flockton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 4AB
Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 2DH
Telephone: 01933 673900
Telephone: 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk
Telephone: 01926 813426 www.southamagriservices.co.uk
D.H. Wadsworth & Sons
Mid Wales ATV Centre
28 Derwent Road, York Road Industrial Estate, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6YB
Telephone: 01653 692244 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk
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Llanefyl, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0ES
Telephone: 01938 820460 Telephone: 07919 523499 www.midwalesatv.com
The Tractor Shop Units 5&6, 25 Nottingham Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, Louth
Telephone: 01507 600051 www.thetractorshop.org.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
ATV
MULE Trans achieves delicate balance Solidly engineered and reliable yet nimble and rugged.
awasaki’s MULE Trans has long been vaunted for its unique ability to quickly and easily transform from a ROPS equipped seat-belted two seater to an equally highly specified four seat vehicle in a few short moves. Now the versatile three cylinder diesel powered machine is attracting further attention chiefly for its ability to balance hard working durability with the transport of delicate or valuable items, according to Simon Riches, Product Manager of ATV and MULE product for Kawasaki Motors UK. “For the vast majority of farming users it’s the rugged, go-anywhere appeal of the MULE that first attracts them, that and the durability of the whole package. Most people comment on the fact that it looks smart in a small truck sort of way, but underneath it’s solidly engineered to deal with day in, day out use across all four seasons and in a diverse and demanding set of environments. MULE Trans customers, in particular, have identified in the 4010 variant a machine that can answer their working needs with a 499kg capacity tipping cargo bed that they can push into service for heavy duty tasks and then quickly convert for a variety of other practical uses. Sporting users, for instance, quite often transport not just valued clients but also equally highly valued antique and collectable guns to almost inaccessible shoots using the Trans. Equally, many have found that catering equipment and even vintage champagne can be ferried to clients using the MULE with the added benefit that the low ground pressure tyres leave no permanent mark or damage
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to the terrain.” Riches is correct in saying that, for many users, the environmental impact issues are of high significance, none more so than in the increasingly regulated construction industry with its swathe of health and safety guidelines and new environmental requirements. “Gone are the days when you could blithely bulldoze your way through a site and do your best to landscape it at a later stage”, says Riches. “Kawasaki dealers are now routinely used to supplying MULE Trans vehicles to building projects where the conservation of the natural environment is a requirement throughout the entire project. Along with the other measures they take, contractors – especially those with a one fuel policy - are now turning to options such as the Trans to move people and equipment around site with the least possible impact. There are many commercial contractors that I could name that started out with just one MULE as an experiment that now run a fleet across their portfolio of on-going projects. In fact one civil engineering company in the south west was so impressed they have created an additional pool of hire vehicles. It’s taken a few years for these users to really understand what a utility vehicle can do, and particularly a Kawasaki MULE. Now I am sure we are in a situation where users understand the delicate balance that exists between the need for reliability, hard work, value for money and return on investment, and that’s just where the MULE scores so highly”.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Choosing a Honda ATV Advice on selecting your ideal machine. he type of terrain that you will be using the ATV on will determine how much traction you require, and therefore the type of drive train you need. If you are using the ATV on mostly flat or only gently undulating land, then 2 wheel drive may be sufficient for your needs. In the Honda range the Fourtrax 250 or Fourtrax 420 2wd models would be suitable. However if the land is steeper, muddy or prone to flooding, then 4 wheel drive will give you the extra grip you need to perform your tasks. What type of activities will you be performing? This is probably the most important question to ask yourself when choosing an ATV. People use their ATVs for a variety of tasks and in a variety of environments, so it's important to make sure your machine is capable of doing what you ask of it. Half way up a mountain is not the right place to realise that your ATV will not be able to get you and your load home safely. Where the ATV is not being used for demanding work, the Fourtrax 250 models are more than capable of helping bring the sheep in, or getting around the stable yard. If you need to perform light to medium utility work, such as spraying or pulling a small trailer, then one of the Fourtrax range should be more than capable for most peoples needs. However if the work is of a more heavy duty nature, for example pulling larger loads on trailers, then the Foreman range would be more suited. Which transmission do you prefer? The transmission you
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choose depends on your own style of riding. The Honda range offers transmission types including manual, electric shift (ESP) or automatic. Manual shift gear changes are good if you want full control when tackling terrain. Based on technology originally designed in our racing cars, our electric shift (ESP) push button technology with automatic clutch gives you smooth and quick gear changes. The automatic transmission systems used in our ATVs give you the feeling of seamless acceleration over any terrain. Anything else ? It is also worth considering the size and experience of the person or people who will be riding the ATV the most before making your choice. The size of their body and the strength they have is an important consideration. Always make sure that you buy a model that is not too heavy or too big for the riders to handle safely.
Many bikes contain individual features and specifications that will suit one persons needs more than another. Honda's Authorised Dealers are trained to make sure you pick the right ATV for you.
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Motors
ANDREWS OF AUTOLINKS HINDHEAD LTD Lake RoadRoad, Garage, Portsmouth Brynmawr, Hindhead, Gwent Surrey GU26 6AL NP23 4AP Tel Tel 01428 01495605544 310548 www.andrewsofhindhead.co.uk www.autolinks.co.uk 68
BIKER WAREHOUSE DORSET QUADS ANDREWS OF Langford Warehouse, LIMITED HINDHEAD LTD London Road, Dorchester Portsmouth Bicester, Oxfordshire Road, 07969 047502 Hindhead, OX26Tel6HG EmailSurrey sales@dorsetquads.co.uk GU26 6AL Telephone 08709 192939 www.dorsetquads.co.uk Tel 01428 605544 www.andrewsofhindhe
DORSET QUADS EXTREME SPORTS XP BIKES NORTH CORNWALL BIKESQUADS ad.co.uk BIKER Unit 5, TOVE 192939 DORSET Fleet RdENGINEERING Industrial Larkhall,XP Lanarkshire, LIMITED Lanarkshire, MOTORCYCLE CENTRE WAREHOUSE LIMITED Dorchester Estate, Unit 15, Yorks Farm Bus. Centre,ML9 2EXLarkhall, 2EX 881885 YorksNr.Farm, Hospital Rd, Stratton, LangfordHolbeach, Warehouse, Dorchester Telephone 07969 047502Bude, Spalding, TelephoneML9 01698 Tel 01698 881885 Watling Street, Telephone 07969 Email Cornwall EX23 9BT London Road, Lincolnshire PE12 8LYTowcester, Contact Ian Contact Ian Tel 01288 355162 Northants, NN12 6AD Bicester, Tel Oxfordshire 047502 sales@dorsetquads.co.uk 01406 420002 www.xpbikes.co.uk www.xpbikes.co.uk www.ncmc.co.uk Tel 01327 831584 Email www.dorsetquads.co.uk OX26 6HG www.xtreme-sport.co.uk Telephone 08709 sales@dorsetquads.c Farming Monthly September 2011
ATV
An impressive line-up and proven durability makes Polaris UTVs hard to resist When viewed as a complete package, these tough machines offer fantastic value for money.
t's no secret that Farming Monthly has a soft spot for Polaris UTVs. With each new model year, we are continually impressed with the quality, durability and features that the range has to offer. These constant improvements demonstrate not only a commitment to the sector
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but indicate the direction that Polaris are taking – aiming to be the manufacturer of choice for farmers, landowners and agricultural professionals. And if the 2011 model line-up is anything to go by, Polaris are aiming right for the top spot. Updated styling and power plants shows these machines
Farming Monthly September 2011
mean business but it's in the details that Polaris can boast its most notable improvements. From side nets for extra safety, improved ground clearance for added mobility, new seat vinyl for better durability – even down to shot peened gears for better sound quality, it's this attention to detail that can prove to be arguably, the most important considerations when it comes to pushing the brand forward. Yes, the power plants deliver
more power, yet are more economical and yes, weight has been reduced along with suspension tweaks to provide better ride quality across the range. But it is only when taken as a complete package that the value proposition of owning a Polaris machine really comes into it's own. With a wide range of vehicles suitable for every requirement, from the Sportsman 400 HO through the Ranger, Ranger Diesel and Ranger Crew models, there is a machine for every task. And let's not forget the Ranger EV for those owners who require quiet running or are aiming to boost their green credentials. When compared to the competition like for like, it would be unwise to discount the Polaris range from any purchasing decision. We would recommend trying out a Polaris before doing anything hasty – we're sure that you will be most pleasantly surprised.
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ATV
Suzuki ATVs go to work at the 2011 World Sheep Dog Trials Hassle-free performance and reliability make Suzuki the manufacturer of choice for Event. uzuki's range of hardworking All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) have been selected by the organisers of the 2011 World Sheep Dog Trials to undertake vital work during the build-up, running and break-down of the event.
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“Although we haven’t sponsored this event before, we know it’s important to our customers.” Official Suzuki ATV Dealer, H Pigney and Son, is sponsoring the 2011 World Sheep Dog Trials in Cumbria on 15-18th September and will be supplying the Suzuki ATVs for the show organisers to use. They will also be attending the show with a trade stand featuring a display of ATVs for customers to view. The ATVs on loan include all models in the range, from the
lightweight 2-wheel drive KingQuad 750 Power Steering, and will be used by event staff to set up the site in preparation for the thousands of visitors expected over the four-day event. All of the models, including the versatile KingQuad 400 manual with a 5-speed plus reverse transmission, will be relied upon by the event marshals for personal transport and other duties around the site. The KingQuad range undoubtedly offers the right tool for every job, the 4-wheel drive is ideal for tricky terrain, especially in adverse weather conditions. What's more the power steering equipped to the KingQuad 500 and 750 models will make light work of a full day's riding. David Pigney, Dealer Principal at H Pigney and Son, commented "We are pleased to sponsor the 2011 World Sheep Dog Trials. Although we haven't
sponsored this event before, we know it's important to our customers, many of whom are sheep farmers themselves. We are confident that the Suzuki range of ATVs will provide the organisers with the hassle-free performance and reliability needed for running the show." Every model in the KingQuad range is currently available with 6 months free fuel* so make
sure you get along to see them for yourself at the 2011 World Sheep Dog Trials, Lowther Estates, Cumbria on 15-18th September. Alternatively visit www.suzuki.co.uk to find your nearest dealer. *Terms and conditions apply, six months free fuel is equivalent to £250.00, which will be loaded on to a prepaid card, visit the website for details.
Nani Roma tests the Can-Am Commander Off-road stars opinion valued by rugged UTV manufacturer.
ilot of the Raids driver Nani Roma put the Can-Am Commander 1000 XT through its paces at the new Maremoto Centre in Spain. Nani pushed the Commander to its limits and was very surprised by the handling of the vehicle.
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Nani enjoyed the special test track at the Maremoto Centre and the full day of testing this area allowed. He has since praised the incredible performance of the Commander and the power of its 1000cc twin-cylinder Rotax engine. During the testing Nani was
impressed by the extremely easy to use automatic gearbox, changing the configuration while allowing easy adaptation of any usage from sports activities to leisure. Can-Am values the opinion of a pilot like Nani Roma, who is an accomplished off-road specialist with extensive experience at the highest level, in both 2 and 4 wheels. He has many victories at the highest levels and has won several championships in 2004, with his highest achievement being winning the Dakar on a motorcycle. Nani's latest endeavor has been to enter into the select world of four wheel drivers and he has shown great potential talent for the sport. Nani has continued to evolve having the most victories at all levels, always being a strong driver to be considered. Today, within the X-Raid BMW team, he is one of the most promised drivers at the top of the main
large raids and careers of this season. We will also see him in prestigious competitions such as the Silk Way Dakar Race, where Nani already showed his competitive edge at the highest level.
Nani pushed the Commander to its limits and was very surprised by the handling of the vehicle. In his constant evolution as a pilot, Nani has also proven to be an excellent technician, a fact that particularly values the great teams in competition. One of his objectives, besides winning, is constantly improving and developing his racing products. For all these attributes, Nani is an ideal candidate for testing the Can-Am Commander 1000 XT.
Farming Monthly September 2011
Motors
Hyundai to electrify Ecovelocity with UK debut ix35 FCEV will make first appearance at low-carbon motor festival in London. yundai has today announced that the ix35 Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) will have its UK debut at EcoVelocity, the low-carbon motor festival at London’s Battersea Power Station (8th – 11th September). EcoVelocity visitors can be among the first in the world to experience future travel in a hydrogen-powered car, with passenger rides available in the ix35 FCEV. The vehicle is Hyundai’s third-generation FCEV and it demonstrates the company’s work on cutting-edge alternative fuels. Boasting the same convenience as today’s vehicles powered by traditional internal combustion engines, the ix35 FCEV has a driving range of 360miles (580 Km), a maximum speed of 100 mph and zero-to62mph time of 12.8 seconds. The fuel cell stack can operate at sub-zero temperatures as low as -25 degrees Celsius, and unlike a combustion-engined car, the ix35’s only emissions are water vapour.
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This vehicle moves Hyundai closer to the commercialisation of fuel cell electric vehicles, and the aim is to bring an FCEV to market in the next few years. Earlier this year, the Hyundai Motor Group signed a memorandum of understanding with four Northern European countries to operate test fleets of FCEVs. Test drives have already been carried out in Korea and Copenhagen. Hyundai UK’s managing director, Tony Whitehorn, commented: “We are extremely excited to be showcasing the ix35 FCEV in the UK for the first time at EcoVelocity. Hyundai is a world leader in the development of hydrogen-powered technology and is constantly researching and developing modes of transportation that use alternative fuels at the Ecotechnology research institute in Mabuk, Korea. "The ultimate goal would be to see zero-emission vehicles on UK roads within the next few years; however, the market and local infrastructure will be the
Farming Monthly September 2011
real determinant of this. In the interim, Hyundai is working hard to make internal combustion engines as efficient as possible.” Also featuring on the Hyundai stand will be the sub-100g/km CO2 i10 Blue and the recently launched i20 Blue. The i10 Blue is powered by a 1.0-litre Kappa three-cylinder petrol engine returning an impressive 67.3mpg combined. The i20 Blue is powered by a 1.4-litre CRDi fourcylinder engine with76.4mpg on a combined cycle. Due to their low emissions, both vehicles offer exemption from VED and the London Congestion Charge.
Visitors will also be able to see Hyundai’s two newest models on the stand - the allnew i40 Tourer, due to go onsale on September 8 and the Veloster coupe due to launch later this year. EcoVelocity will run from September 8 -11th at Battersea Power Station and will feature the latest green models, including electric, hybrid and low CO2-emitting cars, as well as providing test drives on a specially-constructed circuit in the shadow of the famous power station.
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Motors
Amarok to the rescue New VW pick-up demonstrates it’s versatility by serving as emergency services vehicle in Portugal.
fleet of 14 new Volkswagen Amarok pick-ups have been rescuing surfers and swimmers in Portugal this summer in one of its first uses as an emergency services vehicle. The Portuguese National Institute for Search and Rescue has chosen the robust all-wheel drive Volkswagen Amarok for its quick response team which carry essential life saving equipment. Each Amarok has been fitted with an emergency lighting bar, racking for surf boards and an exclusive exterior
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design inspired by the original Volkswagen SAR pick-up concept vehicle that previewed the Amarok at the IAA Hanover commercial vehicle show in 2008. ‘This is a great example of the versatility our new pick-up offers fleet customers and the emergency services sector,’ said Al Hemmings, National Sales Manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. ‘We are delighted to add the new Amarok off-roader to our range of commercial vehicles
this year which, with the Volkswagen 4MOTION system also available on our Caddy Maxi, Transporter and Caravelle ranges, means we now offer an extensive and versatile choice of all-wheel drive vehicles from vans and people carriers to a robust pick-up,’ he continued. The new Amarok was launched in the UK earlier this year and is available as a double cab pick-up with four doors and space for five adults. It has the largest loadspace in its class and the most efficient model in
the pick-up sector with lower emissions and better fuel economy thanks to its 2.0-litre TDI engine which produces as much power and torque as rivals still using larger engines. Retail prices for the Amarok range start from £17,995 (plus VAT). For full details of the new Amarok pick-up, or to find a local Volkswagen Van Centre, please visit www.volkswagenvans.co.uk/amarok
Farming Monthly September 2011
Motors
FIAT Professional launches new DOBLÒ Work Up New dropside version of the popular small workhorse is well specified and keenly priced.
he appeal of Fiat Professional’s award-winning Doblò Cargo van range has just been broadened with a version never before introduced by a large volume manufacturer.
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“The new Doblò Work Up is the latest evolution of a model designed to be top of its class in terms of performance and functional characteristics.”
Called the Doblò Work Up, it’s a ‘dropside’ vehicle with compact external dimensions allowing easy use in urban areas. The external dimensions are not, however, a limit to its performance. The load box is 2.30 m long and 1.82 m wide, with 4 m2 of loading area which can accommodate a payload of up to 1,000kg. Additionally, the multi-link suspension permits a rear axle load up to 1,450kg. The load box is made of high-resistance steel with a floor created from anti-slip multilayer wood and sides in aluminium alloy. Under the floor is a compartment for stowing long
tools, safely protected from the elements. In addition, on each side of the vehicle there is a small, practical step that allows the user to get into the load area. This structure has a ladder rack/door poles, load restraining hooks, and a sturdy protective grille on the rear window of the cab. All these features make the Doblò Work Up ideal for agriculture, construction, maintenance or city parks services sectors. It is ideal for the transport of frames and glass and can take, for example, three Euro pallets or 33 boxes of fruit. The new Doblò Work Up is powered by a choice of two Euro 5 turbodiesel engines: 1.3 MultiJet 90 bhp and 1.6 MultiJet 105 bhp. Both engines are characterised by excellent performance, low noise, low operating costs (fuel consumption and maintenance), reliability and environmental friendliness. Both feature the fuel-saving Start&Stop system and diesel particulate filter. In terms of security, the new Doblò Work Up is unrivalled. To ensure optimum dynamic performance, comfort and active safety, the vehicle has been equipped with innovative mechanical solutions, among them multi-link rear suspension, stability control, and ABS antilock brakes with EBD electronic brakeforce distribution. Available as an option
is ESP with Hill-holder, which assists the driver during hill starts. Front airbags complete the safety specification, while hightech equipment such as a handsfree Blue&Me system and the Blue&Me TomTom navigator are available.
“The external dimensions are not, however, a limit to its performance.” “The new Doblò Work Up is the latest evolution of a model designed to be top of its class in terms of performance and functional characteristics, its capability and ease of loading,” says Francesco Russiello, Marketing Product Manager, Fiat Professional. “Its low running costs, low fuel consumption with reduced operating costs, and equipment levels all combine with safety and comfort, to make this a commercial vehicle well worth consideration.” The new Doblò Work Up costs £16,065 (basic) for the 1.3 MultiJet 16v Euro 5 and £17,065 (basic) for the 1.6 MultiJet 16v Euro 5.
LES’ LARGES WA T
IN Est. 1988 R DE LE PEN DEN T 4X4 DEA
# Also new & pre-owned 4 door Pick-ups supplied
High Noon White Mill Carmarthen Tel: 01267 290900 Fax: 01267 290100 www.geraintjones4x4.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
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Farming Monthly September 2011
Motors
Land Rover confirms all new Defender concept for Frankfurt Motor Show 2011 The Land Rover DC100, a modern interpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender will make its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
and Rover also confirms today, that production of a new Defender is intended for 2015. Commenting on the Land Rover DC100 concept car, Gerry McGovern, Director of Design, Land Rover said: "Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a
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car that inspires people worldwide. This isn't a production-ready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century." John Edwards, Global Brand Director, Land Rover added:"Loved the world over for its simple, honest and distinctive design, we are determined that
Keith Price Garages Llanwenarth Citra Abergavenny, NP8 1EP Tel: 01873 811555 www.keithpricegarages.com
Farming Monthly September 2011
the new Defender will be true to its heritage, while meeting the requirements of a changing global market. We plan to engage with existing and potential customers to help us finalise the details of the new vehicle. One thing's for sure, it's going to be an exciting journey, and we can't wait to get going."
Carstins 324 Station Road, Balsall Common West Midlands CV7 7EF Tel: 01676 533145 www.carstins.co.uk
The Land Rover DC100 concept builds upon the essential elements of the car’s character and allows Land Rover to open the debate and inspire people to dream about the Defenders of the future. The next chapter in the Defender story will unfold at 09:15 hrs (CET) on September 13, 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Newcastle Subaru 53 Queen Alexandra Road West North Sheilds, Tyne & Wear, NE29 9AA Tel: 0191 257 3309 www.newcastlesubaru.co.uk
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Motors
SsangYong seeks additional dealers Relaunched brand offers great franchise opportunity for a range of businesses.
sangYong Motor UK, the new importer of Korean SsangYong cars, has launched its drive to increase dealer representation to 65 by the end of the year. The company is looking for dealers to take on the franchise in a number of open points across England, Scotland and Wales. (See list of open points below). The SsangYong brand is returning to Britain after a two year absence, and the company is focusing its sales and marketing effort on the launch of its first crossover, the
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Korando. Advantageously priced from just £16,995 and with a comprehensive specification, Korando takes SsangYong into the fast growing crossover segment, pitching the car against competitors from brands such as Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi and Nissan. “This is a great franchise opportunity for a range of businesses,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “The smaller multi-franchise holder, specialist 4x4 and niche dealer, and even a current used car or service outlet looking to take on their first new car
franchise will all see sound business benefits. “SsangYong is being relaunched with new products, new investment from the Indian engineering conglomerate, Mahindra & Mahindra, and new backing for the UK importer which is now owned by one of Europe’s leading independent vehicle distribution companies, Bassadone Automotive Group. “We are offering dealerselected objectives, competitive and straightforward dealer margins backed-up by a full range of support including a floorplan facility that is not linked to retail finance, and good parts supply.” Added Steve Gray, SsangYong’s recently appointed marketing and communications director: “When it comes to electronics, mobile phones and now cars, Korea is increasingly seen as the new Japan. While SsangYong may not yet be as well known as its Korean stable mates, Korando will be viewed as the clever choice for famili es and those who tow a caravan, horsebox or trailer.
“This is a tremendous opportunity. We are effectively a new company launching a new car into the fastest growing segment, which means we don’t have to be hide-bound by convention in the way we work with our franchise partners. “The SsangYong franchise offers an accessible and lowcost addition to an existing business, and while we seek professional people who will work to our professional standards, these are far from onerous; we want dealers who will enjoy working with us,” he added. For more information: www.ssangyonggb.co.uk/becom e-a-dealer or contact Ayesha Lutchman on 01252 775409 or email ops@ssangyonggb.co.uk for an initial discussion. Open points include: Inverness, Aberdeen, Borders, Newcastle, Teesside, Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield, Nottingham, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Coventry, Watford, Leicester, Reading, Exeter, Southampton, London/South East, Mid & North Wales.
Visit your local dealer today: Hyltons Shrewsbury 01743 450450 www.hyltons.co.uk
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Hammonds Of Halesworth Suffolk 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk
Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear 0191 257 3309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
News
Two decades of the Jeep Grand Cherokee With the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee, Jeep has created the benchmark, premium SUV. lmost two decades ago, Jeep® invented the premium SUV (sport-utility vehicle) segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million worldwide sales later, Jeep has comprehensively honed this winning formula and is now delivering the ultimate combination of Jeep 4x4 off-road capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. New Jeep Grand Cherokee has been designed on a new platform to deliver premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand’s legendary four-wheel drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case for extraordinary off-road
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capability and durability. The new vehicle also offers significantly lowered emissions and improved fuel economy (up to 39 mpg) with its new turbocharged 3-litre V6 CRD engine, together with a world-class interior providing luxury, comfort and enhanced safety. Despite its rugged, trail-tested off-road capabilities, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is a sophisticated, luxury SUV that can easily be driven on an everyday basis by anyone. “With the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee, Jeep has created the benchmark, premium SUV,” says Mike Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Advanced features such as
our new Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain traction control systems take the new Grand Cherokee to the next level of 4x4 capability. The new generation of the iconic Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers the perfect blend of on-road refinement, superb craftsmanship, world-class design, improved fuel economy, innovative features and legendary, real-world capability.” In the UK, new Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in two versions, Limited and Overland, both of which are powered by an all-new 237bhp 3-litre V6 turbodiesel. Pricing The Grand Cherokee range starts from £36,795
OTR with the 3.0 CRD V6 Limited, while the flagship Overland starts from £43,995 OTR. The Grand Cherokee represents an attractive proposition not only to those who are seeking a naturally capable off-roader, but also to those who want to travel in a modern luxurious, yet refined vehicle with an all-new and distinctive design, without compromise. The new Grand Cherokee has been designed to enhance Jeep’s traditional go-anywhere, do anything reputation by utilising the latest in cutting-edge technology to create a classleading vehicle that can overcome the most demanding of challenges.
Visit your local dealer.. Meridien Majestic
Chrysler Stevenage
520 Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH11 8QE Tel: 01202 525 111 www.meridien.co.uk
Gunnels Wood Road Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2BT 01438 737813 www.hertfordshirechryslergroup.co.uk
Farming Monthly September 2011
Chrysler Bishops Stortford Stansted Road, Hertfordshire CM23 2BT 01279 719300 www.hertfordshirechryslergroup.co.uk
Drayton
Drayton
Penn Road, Wolverhampton, W Midlands WV2 4HD Tel: 0844 573 8780 www.draytongroup.co.uk
5 Battlefield Road, Shrewsbury Shropshire SY1 4AB Tel: 0844 573 8752 www.draytongroup.co.uk
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