TRACKS Issue 7 by Clarke & Pulman

TRACKS ISSUE 7 AUTUMN/WINTER 2023

ICON BY NAME ICON BY NATURE

MADE LOCAL: FIDDLER'S LANCASHIRE CRISPS

SANDERSON'S SPECTACULAR SPREAD-A-BALE SPREADER

JN & VL Webster's JCB iCON 4220

Discover the process from potato to packet

New and improved time saving bale spreader

C&P 20 ANNIVERSARY GALLERY TH

Thank you to everyone who joined in the celebrations at our open day

WELCOME TO TRACKS AUTUMN/WINTER 2023 Welcome back to the latest issue of Tracks magazine! It’s been a busy year for us all, celebrating our 20th anniversary, and you best believe we are still continuing to do so!

learnt all about how our favourite Lancashire crisps are made (Fiddler’s of course), and caught up with Amy Wilkinson, to see what she has been up to these past few months!

Earlier in the year we hosted an open day at our Burscough depot, raising funds for our charity of the year; Rainbow Hub. We would like to thank everyone who attended our open day, showing your support for the company, and for donating to such an important charity.

As Christmas is quickly approaching, we look forward to Rufford’s Christmas Shopping Event on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December, where there will be exclusive offers and promotions, while we celebrate the new extended store, and the arrival of their new brand, Ariat.

Speaking of Rainbow Hub, we caught up with Emma, Corporate Relations and Event Manager, to see how important our donations are and how they’re used. We’ve been out and about visiting our customers to see how they’re getting on with their machinery,

We hope you enjoy this issue, and we wish all of our customers and staff a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! THE MARKETING TEAM CLARKE & PULMAN

CONTENTS 4

M ACHINE FOCUS: JCB iCON 4220 We see if JN & VL Webster's new iCON lives up to it's name

C USTOMER FOCUS: POTATO TO PACKET We take a tour around the Fiddler's Crisp factory

M ACHINE FOCUS: FENDT KATANA FORAGER Stanworth Agricultural give us the lowdown

10 F ARMING WITH AMY 12 M ACHINE FOCUS: SPREAD-A-BALE Robert from J and M Sanderson shares his thoughts on the spreader 14 C HARITY FOCUS: RAINBOW HUB An insight into our charity of the year and the vital work they do 16 M ACHINE FOCUS: MASSEY FERGUSON 7S David from Gore Hall Farm gives us his insight

DON'T MISS! IN OUR LATEST ISSUE... FARMING WITH AMY

CHARITY FOCUS: RAINBOW HUB

Page 10

Page 14

18 F IX THE COST OF SERVICE & REPAIRS 19 B RAND FOCUS: DRAPER TOOLS 20 C HRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 24 N EW & USED 26 A PPRENTICESHIPS What does it take to become a fully qualified Land-Based Service Engineering Technician?

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Page 20

27 PUZZLE CORNER Cover image by JCB

YOU COULD BE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE! If you would like to appear in the next issue of TRACKS, just send us an email with details: tracks@clarkeandpulman.com

MACHINE FOCUS

We spent some time with Neil from JN & VL Webster Farming, to find out why everyone loves driving their JCB iCON 4220 In April 2023, JN & VL Webster took delivery of their brand new JCB Fastrac iCON 4220. We dropped by to have a chat with Neil, to see how him and his team was getting on with it. Based near Holmeswood, JN & VL Webster farm around 800 acres of land, 500 of which are potatoes, while the remaining 300 acres are wheat and barley. After Neil decided he wanted a new machine, our sales rep Tom Clarke took him to the JCB factory in Uttoxeter for a test drive of the new iCON. Neil was instantly impressed; “JCB really upped their game. The iCON is a proper tractor, with really good software. I was keen to go with JCB as they are British made, they have a good warranty package, they offered a competitive price, and a good finance scheme.” Versatility The 4220 iCON was designed to be a versatile, all-in-one solution for farming tasks across the board. “We use the iCON for everything”, Neil told us. “We use it for lots of trailer

work, ploughing, cultivation, and much more. It’s great because the 4220 iCON never needs altering, it’s easy to switch between different implements for different jobs.” The iCON has a high-capacity hydraulic system, allowing it to handle a wide range of implements and attachments, improving efficiency and productivity on the farm. 50:50 weight distribution also optimises traction without requiring excess ballast, both in the field and on the road. The cab is highly customisable, allowing the operator to change various settings for the engine, hydraulics, and linkage, which can be saved to their individual profile, which they can easily access next time they use the machine. You can also save implement profiles, which allows the operator to quickly switch between different tasks without needing to manually adjust settings each time they change implements. This not only saves time but also ensures that the tractor is set up optimally for each task.

Comfort and the Cab “Everyone loves driving the iCON”, Neil tells us. “It fits in well on the farm and into our routine, and it’s really comfortable”. The iCON has a spacious and ergonomic cabin designed for operator comfort, with air conditioning, air-ride suspension seats, and easy-to-reach controls, which reduce operator fatigue during long working hours. A mid-mounted cab position provides additional comfort and excellent 360° visibility, as well as a smoother ride both on and off road, due to its unique all-wheel suspension system. “The name says it all, it really is an icon! I’m very impressed, I’d really like another!”, Neil told us. Experience Neil reflects on his experience with Clarke & Pulman and JCB; “I’m in good hands at Clarke & Pulman the girls in the Aftersales Hub are always ringing and keeping an eye on my tractor! I also have a really good relationship with Tim at JCB. I know I can ring him anytime and he can help me with any issues I have.”

ICON BY NAME ICON BY NATURE For more information about our range of JCB machinery, contact our Sales Team on 01995 640302 or drop the team an email at saleshub@clarkeandpulman.com

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" JCB REALLY UPPED THEIR GAME. THE ICON IS A PROPER TRACTOR."

JCB iCON 4220 SPECIFICATION Rated Power: 218 hp Max Power: 235 hp Torque: 1,000 Nm Max Speed: 60 kph 3-point linkage lift capacity: Rear options: 7,000 kg or 8,000 kg Front (optional): 3,500 kg Max hydraulic flow: 195 l/min

POTATO Makers of Fiddler's Lancashire Crisps, the Fiddler family have been turning their home grown potatoes into delicious crisps since 2011

PACKET 6

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CUSTOMER FOCUS

Potatoes grown on the Fiddler's family farm are washed then brought across the yard to the factory to be checked before being sliced and fried in small batches

Fiddler’s crisps are a firm favourite in our office, so when the opportunity arose to pay them a visit and see how our favourite Lancashire crisps are made, we couldn’t say no! So, we called round to see Robert Fiddler Snr and his wife, Linda, for a cup of tea and a chat, all about crisps! The Fiddler family started farming in 1956, after Robert Snr’s father decided to rent a farm near Mere Brow. The family originally farmed around 23,000 hens to sell their eggs, along with a mixture of vegetables, including early carrots, early cabbage, and of course potatoes. The family then bought Brick Kiln Farm in Rufford, in 1975, and have lived there since 1981. The idea of making crisps has always been in the family. Robert Snr remembers his father talking about the sale price of potatoes, versus the sale price of crisps, which he worked out to be significantly more! The family finally made the leap in 2011, as they saw making crisps as a way to add value to the few potatoes they grew. After showcasing their crisps at Southport Flower Show and Clitheroe Food Festival, the farm slowly increased the number of potatoes they grew and processed to around three or four tonnes per week, as they gained popularity. Today, every potato grown on the farm goes to

making crisps, which is now around 20 tonnes per week! Fiddler’s use Lady Rosetta and Lady Claire varieties, due to their early maturities, high dry matter content, and low sugars. The Crisp Making Process Firstly, the potatoes are washed, before being transported across the yard to the main crisp factory. Inside, the potatoes are quality checked by head fryer Paul, with any green potatoes discarded. The potatoes are then sliced, before

inspiration from their surroundings. Fiddler’s currently offer eight flavours; Lancashire Sauce, Sweet Chilli, Sea Salt, Black Pudding and English Mustard, Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper, Sea Salt and Ellsey’s Malt Vinegar, and Simply Spud (Robert Snr and Linda’s favourite). Last year, Fiddler’s released two limited edition Christmas flavours; ‘Pigs in Blankets’ and ‘Turkey and Stuffing’, which will definitely be returning for Christmas 2023!

EVERY POTATO GROWN ON THE FARM GOES TO MAKING CRISPS, WHICH IS NOW AROUND 20 TONNES PER WEEK sliding into a large vat to fry. The crisps are fried in small batches, as this makes the crisps harder and crunchier. Frying the crisps takes around 10 minutes, with the whole process from potato to packet taking less than 20 minutes. After frying, the crisps are left to drain, and are quality checked, before heading over to be flavoured. The crisps are then packaged and boxed, ready to be delivered all over the country. Fiddler’s use as many Lancashiremade products as possible to flavour their crisps, and are always taking

You can grab yourself a bag of Fiddler’s crisps at Booths, Spar, and Co-op, as well as a variety of pubs, cafés, and delis across Lancashire. You can also order online at fiddlerslancashirecrisps.co.uk/shop Looking ahead to the future, the Fiddler family are thinking about introducing even more flavours, so watch this space! The farm also has an onsite bakery, which is open Wednesday-Saturday, serving cakes, jams, bread, and much more! You can find it at Brick Kiln Farm, Brick Kiln Lane, Rufford, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 1SY.

After frying the crisps are left to drain and go through quality control before being flavoured, packaged and boxed ready to be delivered all over the country.

MACHINE FOCUS

COMFORT & CONSISTENCY Ed Swindlehurst with machinery operator Mark Fiddler

Kemper grass header follows the ground well

We caught up with Ed from Stanworth Agricultural to see how he's been getting on with the very capable Fendt Katana 650 forager Delivered and put straight to work, Stanworth Agricultural received their Fendt Katana 650 selfpropelled forager in July 2023. Farming 390 acres at Black Moss Farm, on the edge of the Ribble Valley, Stanworth Ag. currently milk 390 cross-bred dairy cattle on a flying-herd system. While the cropping system at Black Moss is predominately grass based, with some fields reserved for summer grazing, some whole-crop wheat and maize have been harvested also, allowing the team to put their Capello disc header and 10-row Kemper maize head to work. Aiming to future proof their investment, near infra-red (NIR)

crop sensing system has also been specified to provide nutrient analysis of the crop in real time. The model number of the Katana 650 logically relates to 650hp maximum power output of its 15.6-litre, six-cylinder MTU engine, while a 28-blade chopping cylinder offers theoretical chop lengths 3.7mm-20.7mm.

NIR crop sensing – crop nutrient analysis in real-time

To get a first-hand review of the Katana, we spoke to farm manager Ed Swindlehurst, who has been putting the forager through its paces since it arrived. He adds. “Arriving just in time for second cut silage we were keen to get our hands on the forager. We

Controls are logically laid out and the screen offers simple adjustments on the go

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" SOIL CONTAMINATION IS MINIMAL THANKS TO HOW WELL THE GRASS HEADER FOLLOWS CONTOURS, AND WE’VE GOT PLENTY OF THOSE ON THE FARM!" have some interesting terrain in places up here, but the Katana has impressed us so far for being both agile and comfortable in the field.” This comfort described by Ed is largely due to the suspended rear axle, along with the large, quiet cab.

“The consistency of crop going into the clamp is good, so it should return us good quality silage when we open the pits up for feeding. Soil contamination is minimal thanks to how well the grass header follows contours, and we’ve got plenty of those on the farm!”

“When you are up early to milk and then spend all day chopping, you need a comfortable environment to work in, and the Katana impresses here. Noise levels are pretty quiet, there is good visibility to the header and trailers, and the fridge does a cracking job of keeping your pop and butties cool on a hot day.”

“Consistency was even maintained when we put it in some older, lumpier swathes of grass. The screen is simple to use and uses similar logic to those on our Fendt tractors. I can easily make adjustments to chop length, header height settings and additive flow rate, which is ideal in changing crops and conditions.”

It's not all about comfort though, he says: “Cattle here are fed a total mixed ration (TMR) or predominantly grass, whole crop and maize, so chop length and consistency are crucial. This is something the Katana manages well with its six feed rollers.

Previous to the purchase of their Katana 650, a neighbouring farm would carry out the chopping at Black Moss, with mowing, raking and carting duties shared across the two farms. However, a return to all in-house policy has seen the farm

acquire a fleet of Fendt tractors, Kverneland grass equipment and Stewart silage trailers from Clarke & Pulman. “Maintenance access around the machine is top notch, the panels all move well out of the way, and the onboard compressor is handy to blow the machine down at the end of a day's chopping. Adjusting the shear bar is also simple to do, as is inserting and removing the cracker for processing grains.” A new feature to the Katana is how its sharpening stone automatically adjusts as it passes over the knives, rather than adjusting at either end to provide a more consistent sharpening. “While we haven’t had any major issues, Matt Lund has been on the end of the phone and out to show us round the forager and help us solve any niggles straight away.”

If you want to find out more about the Katana, call the Sales Hub on 01995 640302.

CLARKE & PULMAN AMBASSADOR

FARMING WITH AMY Local farmer, Amy Wilkinson, updates us on life on her Southport farm during harvest...

It’s been a busy few months both on the farm and off. I have officially moved out, and so have half the cows who are currently out on the marshes! We have also had the yard concreted, and we are more than halfway through this very catchy harvest. Luckily for us, harvest this year does not feel as stressful as last year – which is strange to say when the weather has been horrendous, and the yard has been torn up and put back down again during this time. The reasons we aren’t running around losing our minds just yet is firstly, this year we have aimed to have a more stretched out harvest, with different crops having different combining windows and not having

everything come ready all at once. For example, this year we are growing beans again, which will be harvested last towards the end of September. Our reasoning for this is that they are a brilliant protein source for our cattle, especially as we have seen the cost of bought-in protein skyrocket over the past few years, and they are generally just a great break crop. But the main reason we aren’t tearing our hair out is that we actually have less to do – last week we put 150 acres of spring cereals to whole crop, which we harvested in just two days. Can you imagine if our 18ft header and combine could go at that rate… there would be no stress at all!

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The contractors themselves were quite surprised at the rate they got through it all, with them being more used to hilly areas, with trees and other obstacles in each field. They finished the first forty-acre field and were stopping for lunch and a brew. My Dad was trying to hurry them along as there was a lot to go at yet, but the contractors explained they average forty acres in a day usually – “down here is incredible”. Apparently, the vast openness and flatness of Halsall Moss was the easiest job they have ever had and surprisingly, no one got stuck. You may ask why we have gone to whole crop but it's simple really. Under new schemes, you now actually get paid more for over winter stubbles on whole crop stubble, than on combinable stubbles. And seeing as we have always harvested our barley, dried it, milled it and then fed it out to our cows with its baled straw going in the feeder wagon alongside, this was a good option for the business and made sense for us to have a go at it. It has been a massive learning curve for us, trying something new will always be that way. But I do believe

if you aren’t trying new things then you aren’t moving forward. The biggest thing we have learned is that 150 acres of whole crop is a LOT. We had put up a new clamp to store it in, however this very quickly filled up. So, we had to go New Zealand style and pile the rest on the field next to the yard and let me tell you, it’s a BIG pile! We will have to see how it feeds out, but we now have a better idea for next year. Once it was all in, it came time to sheet up and this is nothing new to us on clamps, with us having a maize clamp to do every year. So, we started with the one we knew how to do, and I’m not very pleased to report that on only the second bucket load of tyres, I took a direct hit to the face of the dreaded tyre water. The most humbling of experiences for all who have gone through it, I think you would agree, haha! Then it came time to attempt the mountain next to the yard. While running low on tyres, Dad had the idea of half filling some old chemic drums and using them to weigh the sheets down. Now I knew my Dad was a hoarder of chemic drums, but the extent of his problem was

" THIS YEAR WE HAVE AIMED TO HAVE A MORE STRETCHED OUT HARVEST, WITH DIFFERENT CROPS HAVING DIFFERENT COMBINING WINDOWS AND NOT HAVING EVERYTHING COME READY ALL AT ONCE." learned that day, and he should probably be featured on one of those TV programmes. All the drums were stacked up in the corner of the shipping container that we use as the chemic store, the same store my dad jokingly complained about me keeping furniture in, whilst I was renovating my house! My brother was bringing the drums out, I was filling them, and Dad was loading the telehandler bucket with the filled drums. Now, when I said this process went on and on, my Dad asked my brother surely, are we nearly done? But my brother replied with “about halfway”. By the end, I was feeling high as a kite from the fumes, and we had filled…. Drum roll please…. 171 drums!

Don’t get me wrong, they all came in handy, but I think we can all agree that’s excessive; the store feels twice as big now its empty, and I got moaned at for having a deconstructed table in there. The cheek! Now sheeting the pile was definitely the hardest work of the whole process, with us actually abseiling down it at times! My Dad was actually blown off it and tumbled down it in quite the Indiana Jones manner, leaving me to hold up the massive weighted green sheet solo and stop it slipping down. It was all quite dramatic, but we got there in the end. But we will just have to see how this learning curve turns out.

MACHINE FOCUS

We caught up with Robert from J and M Sanderson to find out why their new Spread-a-Bale is a big improvement on their previous model J and M Sanderson farm around 400 acres of land, where they milk 400 dairy cows. They purchased their new Spread-a-Bale after running one previously for around ten years. They use the Spread-a-Bale to bed around 150 cattle on a straw yard twice per day. In the past, J and M Sanderson ran a trailed straw chopper, but found it slow, difficult to load, and it created a lot of dust. So, when the Sanderson’s had a demo of the Spread-a-Bale (almost 10 years ago!) and saw how it compared to their previous machine, it was an easy switch. The Spread-a-Bale was designed and

INCREDIdeveloped by dairy farmer, Michael Hughes, who wanted to reduce running costs by saving time, money and straw, and reduce the amount of dust produced.

“The Spread-a-Bale doesn’t overprocess straw like some of the other machines do. It is gentle and doesn’t chop it too fine, which means the straw beds keep their shape and don’t go mushy”, Robert tells us. “There is minimal dust too because the straw isn’t being chopped, it’s just being pulled through the beaters”. Dust can lead to pneumonic conditions, eye infections, and injuries for both cattle and humans, so minimising this risk is important.

attachments. This saves us a lot of time but also means we don’t have to tie up a tractor too!” Robert told us.

Robert has noticed some improvements on the new model, compared to their previous Spreada-Bale, “On the old machine, when you shut it up and pulled the beaters down, straw would often get stuck, so the beaters couldn’t sit flush at the bottom. The new machine can’t physically do that, so we no longer have a build-up of straw which is good. Better still, maintenance of the Spread-a-Bale is minimal, if you use it correctly, there is not a lot that can really go wrong”.

“We have the Spread-a-Bale Maxi, the largest they offer. We can put any size of bale in it, we can even put two bales together, which really speeds the job up because we spend less time loading!” The Spread-a-Bale is said to spread a 700kg rectangular bale in 45 seconds – faster than any other spreader on the market.

Robert usually uses the Spread-aBale on their JCB TM320S, which they also purchased from C&P. “The Spread-a-Bale is great to use with the TM320S, as it is easy to switch

The Spread-a-Bale Maxi can disperse bales of various shapes and sizes, including round bales up to 1.8m in diameter, with rotors measuring 1.3 meters in height, the

" MAINTENANCE OF THE SPREAD-A-BALE IS MINIMAL, IF YOU USE IT CORRECTLY, THERE IS NOT A LOT THAT CAN REALLY GO WRONG." 12

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- BALE

SPREAD-A-BALE MAXI SPECIFICATION Model: Standard Rear Mounted Size (W x L): 1.74 m x 3.65 m Height: 3.65 m Weight: 1,086 kg Max. Bale Width: 1.2 m Max. Bale Length: 2.5 m Max. Bale Height: 1.3 m (rectangular) Max. Round Bale Diameter: 1.8 m Max. Bale Weight: 600 kg

Spread-a-Bale is equipped to handle even the largest rectangular bales. The Spread-a-Bale comes as rear mounted as standard, or can come as side mounted, which is ideally suited to smaller loaders and for discharge to one side.

Final Thoughts “I would totally recommend the Spread-a-Bale if you’re looking for something to process straw for bedding yards, especially if you need to process a lot and you have a loader that can handle the weight. It’s always a pleasure to deal with Clarke & Pulman too. It’s always a very good service, and they always come straight out if we have a breakdown.”

SPREAD A 700KG RECTANGULAR BALE IN 45 SECONDS!

If you would like more information about the Spread-a-Bale, get in touch with our Sales Hub by calling 01995 640302 or email saleshub@clarkeandpulman.com 13

CHARITY FOCUS

RAINBOW HUB We spoke to Emma, Corporate Relations and Event Manager at C&Ps charity of the year for 2023, Rainbow Hub in Mawdesley

As our chosen charity, we’ve worked closely with Rainbow Hub over the past year, helping to raise money to fund such an important cause. Rainbow Hub is a one-of-a-kind charity that offers a diverse range of rehabilitation services aimed at improving the physical, social and emotional well-being of children with disabilities, as well as reducing isolation and stress in their families. Rainbow Hub has a purposebuilt site located in Mawdesley, Lancashire that offers a safe, accessible, friendly environment in the beautiful countryside. During our last visit, we interviewed Emma, Corporate Relations and Event Manager, to learn all about Rainbow Hub and how we, as a community, can help with fundraising and volunteering. When was Rainbow Hub established, and why? Rainbow Hub (originally Rainbow House) was established in 2001 by a mother who felt she didn't have support through existing services, to help support her special needs son. We started in a small premises in Eccleston, but moved into the present purpose-built centre in 2007, which continues to expand and develop more services.

In it's beautiful countryside setting, Rainbow Hub is a safe, accessible place for children with disabilities

What kind of services do you offer? We have a fantastic purpose-built building and an incredible team of qualified, experienced staff that offer high-quality services. Each service is set out to change the lives of the children, helping them develop skills in all areas of learning, but also allowing each child to live more active and independent lives. Rainbow Hub provides services such

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events, marketing, administration, to helping with fundraising collections and assisting staff in supporting the children and young people. How do your donations get spent? Most donations are spent on service delivery and charitable activities that improve children's and young people's lives.

Rainbow Hub helps children increase in confidence

as, Conductive Education (bespoke movement programmes), Stay and Play, Communication sessions, Family Support, Holiday Fun Clubs, and Rainbow Hub Nursery. How do the children benefit from your services? Our services hugely impact all aspects of the children’s day-today lives, from helping children improve emotionally by increasing their self-esteem, confidence and aspirations, to essential life skills such as communication, movement, and positive relationships. These services allow the children to socialise and build relationships. Learning doesn't just occur in the classroom; Rainbow Hub has a wheelchair-accessible kitchen and outdoor play. How many children do you help? Last year alone, we helped 135 children and young people, and their families. We hope this keeps growing in the year ahead. What age range are the children you support? We support children from 2 years up to young adults. How many members of staff do you have and do you have volunteers? We have 25 members of staff (a mixture of full-time and part-time). We have an amazing group of volunteers dedicated to helping in many ways. From wrapping Christmas presents, helping keep the grounds tidy, assisting with

What are your expansion plans? We are set to open a school specialising in teaching children with special needs. We have received the necessary planning permission to build the school on-site at Rainbow Hub. Families can struggle to find appropriate education for their children, who are able to learn but struggle with physical disabilities, as authority schools are not able to meet their needs. These children, many locals, deserve access to knowledge and skills personalised to their needs, which will allow them to live as full and independent lives as possible. How can our readers donate/help Rainbow Hub? If you would be interested in donating or fundraising for Rainbow Hub, you can visit our website: www.rainbowhub.org or email: e.parish@rainbowhub.org Follow Rainbow Hub on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram: @rainbowhubnw If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Tracy Daglish at 01704 823276 or email: t.daglish@rainbowhub.org for more information.

A little message from the team at Rainbow Hub At Rainbow Hub, we support families as well as children. We understand how difficult life can be for families and want to do everything possible to make things easier. Here are just some ways in which we help: •A ttending hospital/school appointments with families if they need support •S ignposting to find other services for their individual needs •F amily events (so parents can relax with other people who understand how they feel) • Stay and Play session • Grandparents Coffee Mornings •B reaktime Holiday Club (ages 5–16 who have been awarded break time hours through the Lancashire County Council scheme) No one is forgotten, but if we can't help, we will find someone who can. Our door is always open. We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Clarke & Pulman for choosing to support Rainbow Hub as your charity of the year! As a local charity, it means the world to receive your support and the wonderful donation of £2,450 from your Open Day.

RECYCLE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE Rainbow Hub will collect and recycle your real Christmas tree to save you time and hassle! Collection on Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th January 2024, from the following postcode areas: PR6, PR7, PR25, PR26, WN6, WN8, L39, L40, Blackrod, Tarleton & Hesketh Bank. To book your tree collection, fill out the online form at rainbowhub.org before 10th January 2024. Tel: 01704 823276

Email: e.parish@rainbowhub.org

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MACHINE FOCUS

David and his brother Richard are the seventh generation of the family to farm and run their family business. The family farms around 400 acres; growing iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, little gem lettuce, celery, and indoor lettuce – which is grown in computer-controlled glasshouses. The family have always had Massey Ferguson tractors, from the moment horses were no longer used to farm the land. The farm currently runs a fleet of 26 Massey Ferguson tractors, ranging from the MF 135, all the way up to the 7S.210 – all of which are used for different tasks on the farm. The 7S in particular is used mainly for cultivation and marking beds out with a Lemken Power Harrow. The 7S is the latest addition to the fleet, with the Cropper’s acquiring it in March 2023. When deciding which Massey Ferguson model to buy next, David found the 7S to be an easy choice, as he particularly liked the cab. “The 7S is much comfier as there are more driving positions due to the adjustable steering column”, David explained. The Cab Described by Massey Ferguson as the ‘Field Office’, the 7S has been designed to offer the ultimate comfort. The cab has been designed ergonomically, so everything you need is in one place, in a convenient and logical layout. The cabin, as well as all major controls are easily accessible on the right armrest, which increases your efficiency and boosts productivity. The adjustable steering column can be adjusted both vertically, and telescopically for precise operator positioning, as well as optimum comfort. An air-suspended seat boosts comfort and is equipped with a Dynamic Damping System with lateral stability suspension, to ensure a more stable ride on bumpier terrain. The 7S offers the option of a heated seat for those colder days, whilst a new air conditioning system means the cab’s cooling capacity has been enhanced by an additional 4°C, to keep you cooler on those hotter days. The 9” touch-screen display is now brighter and clearer, to reduce glare, whilst new homepage shortcuts make it easy to navigate.

MASSEY The Croppers have owned Massey Ferguson tractors since they replaced horses. We went to see David Cropper at Gore Hall Farm, Banks, to get his thoughts on their MF 7S from C&P The 7S also offers a choice of three different roof types, allowing you to tailor the visibility and ventilation of your machine. The Visio Roof in particular provides a great view of your loader through the whole lift range. LED lights, along with a bonnet lightbar, provide optimal visibility in the dark. The 7S features a new multi-pad lever and comprehensive control armrest, which is linked to the seat. The controller is easy to use, ISOBUS-compatible, and places everything conveniently to hand, including linkage control rocker switch, cruise settings, driving mode pre-sets and MF Guide activation. It also houses a micro joystick to operate two electric spool valves. Massey Ferguson have also introduced a new multifunction lever, to provide easy control of a loader and front linkages, as well as allowing the operator to change direction, and tractor speeds. Powerful Performance With its 210hp, 6.6 litre AGCO Power engine, 2.88m wheelbase and standard Dyna-VT transmission,

the new MF 7S.210 presents an ideal power-to-weight ratio tailored to its sector. This configuration ensures exceptional performance, manoeuvrability, and efficiency, all while minimizing soil compaction during fieldwork. Simultaneously, this robustly constructed tractor is perfectly suited for heavy-duty load carrying and transportation tasks. The 7S is powerful, but all whilst continuing to meet the latest, stringent Stage V emission regulations, using it’s ‘All-in-One' system. The system combines a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and a soot catalyst (SC) in one compact unit, that is discreetly placed beneath the cab, ensuring there is no compromise on visibility. Experience The Cropper’s have been customers of Clarke & Pulman since it was first established in 2003. “We have always been loyal customers to Clarke & Pulman because they have always looked after us.” You can find Gore Hall produce in a multitude of retailers, including Sainsbury's, Booths, Spar and Tesco.

Described by Massey Ferguson as the ‘Field Office’, the 7S has been designed to offer ultimate comfort

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FAITHFUL

" WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN LOYAL CUSTOMERS TO CLARKE & PULMAN BECAUSE THEY HAVE ALWAYS LOOKED AFTER US.”

MF 7S.210 SPECIFICATION Max Power: 210hp Max Power EPM: 220hp (with EPM) Engine: AGCO Power 6.6L, 6 Cylinder Transmission: Dyna-VT Max Torque: 925Nm (@ 1,500 RPM with EPM) Lift Capacity: 9,600kg

SERVICE+ CONTRACT

FIX THE COST OF OWNERSHIP SERVICE+ is Clarke & Pulman's money saving contract that you can sign up to today, completely free of charge! Start saving now...

On our SERVICE+ contract, you can benefit from a free machine health check at every service, 12 months warranty on parts and labour, and of course; fixed hourly rates on servicing and repairs, meaning you could save up to £40 per hour, depending on the age of your machine. With our SERVICE+ contract, you will receive dedicated support from our Aftersales Hub, as well as full access to our team of manufacturer trained technicians, who use genuine parts and have full access to our in-house diagnostic equipment. SERVICE+ customer, Harry Roper, explains, "The back-up and service at Clarke & Pulman is very good, and there’s always someone at the end of the phone no matter what time of day an issue or question may occur.”

No Service Contract Any age of machine

£ 93 PER HOUR

With SERVICE+ Machine age: 0–5 years

£ 73

PER £20 HOUR

With SERVICE+ Machine age: 5–10 years

£ 63

PER £30 HOUR

With SERVICE+ Machine age: 10+ years

£ 53

PER £40 HOUR

SAVE

EXPERT TECHNICIANS MANUFACTURER TRAINED

We provide assistance to SERVICE+ customers on their premises or ours, where our service experts can be with you in next to no time

For more information, please call our Aftersales Hub on 01704 897 507 18

clarkeandpulman.com

BRAND FOCUS

HELPING YOU GET THE JOB DONE SINCE 1919 When conditions are tough and productivity is everything, Draper’s got you covered. Draper has been supplying quality tools, backed up by expert support, for more than a century. From machinery maintenance to fencing and groundworks, Draper helps you get the job done. A family owned and run business, with excellent-rated customer service and multi-award-winning products, the company is proud to be a leading supplier to the agricultural sector. Whether you need a quality socket set to see you through a range of jobs or a torque wrench that’s tough enough to withstand farm life, all Draper hand tools come with a lifetime warranty.

Choose the Draper Expert range for a series of tools designed for heavy-duty use. Highlights include the Draper Expert 127 Piece Toolkit and the Combined MM/AF ¾ Square Drive 26 Piece Socket Set – with these amongst your tool selection, there's no job you can't take on. Every tool in the Expert range is innovatively designed for maximum durability, safety and performance. Draper’s dedicated Quality Assurance team works continuously to ensure every tool meets and exceeds industry standards, so you can be sure you’re getting the very best quality. In fact, quality is so important to Draper that the team has more than 100 years combined service and expertise. Not only that, but the company’s UK headquarters has over 100 different pieces of equipment for assessing tools, including a torque tester which tests up to 1,800Nm.

CURVED JAW SELF GRIP PLIERS SET (3 Piece) £15.39 +VAT HYDRAULIC BOTTLE JACK 20 Tonne £62.98 +VAT

• Established in 1919. Proud to be family owned and operated. • Comprehensive range of tools: over 11,000 products • Lifetime warranty on hand tools • Excellent rated customer service: with a dedicated product support helpline. • Strong aftersales support with a wide range of spares available. • Rigorous quality control: meeting and exceeding industry standards. • Committed to sustainability: Recycling, reusing, cutting plastics, working towards a net zero future.

DRAPER EXPERT MECHANIC'S TOOL KIT (127 Piece) £145.57 +VAT CHISEL AND PUNCH SET (12 Piece) – £30.59 +VAT DRAPER EXPERT HI-TORQ® METRIC COMBINATION SPANNER SET (14 Piece) – £50.37 +VAT

PNEUMATIC RISE RATCHETING AXLE STANDS 3 Tonne (pair) £95.55 +VAT

COMBINED MM/AF SOCKET SET 3/4" Sq. Dr. (26 Piece) £234.54 +VAT EXTRA-LONG FOUR TRAY CANTILEVER TOOL BOX 495mm, Blue – £57.40 +VAT

DRAPER EXPERT TX-STAR® HEX. & SPLINE MECHANIC'S BIT SET 3/8, 1/2" Sq. Dr. (40 Piece) – £31.59 +VAT

COB/SMD LED RECHARGEABLE INSPECTION LAMP 7W, 700 Lumens, Blue, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x USB Charger £30.77 +VAT

IMPACT SOCKET SET 3/8" & 1/2" Sq. Dr. (32 Piece) – £67.17 +VAT

POCKET DIGITAL MULTIMETER 500V, AC/DC £16.45 +VAT

Available in our depots or call Burscough 01704 897507 / Garstang 01995 640302 19

GIFT GUIDE

K L AS UA N F L D B O J C N C T I V AT FU .99 + £ 29

JCB TIPPED £22. 10 +VAT

POLO

MASSEY FERGUSON 830 COMBINE MODEL 1:32 £58.73 +VAT

EN ' S DT M FE N IRT T-SH 6 +VAT 3 £22 .

T E N D LE R PY F I HAP AL TR A A N I M 3 + V AT 1 £ 14 .

A N CE D X A DV R G E R G X 1 5 E R A P S A RY CH BAT TE +VAT 6 .2 4 £17

MILWA U R E C H A K E E L 4 H L 23 R £71 .50 G E ABLE HE 01 600 LUM ADL A M EN + V AT P

MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL HEDG E TRIM MER 60CM £201 .50 +VAT

TE R WA N O S R A KE RG U Y F E N D B RE E S I S M A SEX W U N I 8 9 + V AT . £ 57

ORDER NOW! VISIT OUR 20

35 0 RN A PW HUSQVA WA SHER E R PRE S S U +VAT £270.0 0

P RO

BRITAIN S D E F E N D L A N D R OV E R ER PL AY SET £24.99 + VAT

GARSTANG OR BURSCOUGH DEPOTS clarkeandpulman.com

FE NDT 21 1 FRONT LO VARIO WITH A £179.76 +V DER RIDE ON AT

MA SSE Y FERGUSON BORN TO FARM HOODIE £59.04 +VAT

LD T CH I FE ND T R I T-SH 6 £18 . 2

REN ’S

FE ND T ADJU 942 VARI O WIT S TAB LE £194.8 H 9 +VAT SE AT RID E ON

TO R R AC AL T DE ON D E P I J CB A I LE R R & T R 3 + V AT 5 £9 5 .

P ORTEK EZ Y £45.76 +VAT SPR AY

70 B 542- 1:32 INS JC L BRITA R A LOADAL T A G R X + V AT £35.0 0

O N 7 7 26 R F E RG U S E M A S S E Y A C T O R & L OA D R T L A D E P VAT £17 7.91 +

CALL OUR PARTS DEPARTMENTS GARSTANG: 01995 640302 BURSCOUGH: 01704 897507

USO F E RG Y E T S M A S T-SHIR S KI D ' 1 2 £1 5 .

CHAINSAW SPECIALISTS HUSQVARNA 135 MARK II £274.17 +VAT

HUSQVARNA 455 RANCHER £565.83 +VAT

Robust, reliable and easy to use saw with ample cutting performance for homeowners. The perfect garden chainsaw.

An ideal saw for landowners and part-time users who require a high-powered, heavy-duty workmate for all cutting conditions.

• 38 cm³ Cylinder displacement • 1.6 kW Power output • 16.8 m/s Chain speed at max power • Bar length 14” • LowVib provides effective anti-vibration • Powerful and Efficient X-TORQ® Engine • S ide-mounted chain tensioner makes chain adjustment quick and easy

• 55.5 cm³ Cylinder displacement. • 2.6 kW Power output. • 20 m/s Chain speed at max power. • Bar length 18” • S ide-mounted chain tensioner makes chain adjustment quick and easy. • Effective inertia chain brake. • Smart Start Technology

HUSQVARNA 435 MARK II £399.17 +VAT

OREGON STEEL LOG SAWHORSE £39.99 inc.VAT

Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, ideal for those looking for a domestic chainsaw for the garden or a small amount of land.

Sturdy, lightweight, and portable steel log sawhorse’s design lets you confidently cut wood with a chainsaw.

• 40.9 cm³ Cylinder displacement • 1.6 kW Power output • 17.3 m/s Chain speed at max power • Bar length 15” • S ide-mounted chain tensioner makes chain adjustment quick and easy • Effective inertia chain brake • Features Air Injection

• Serrated teeth clamp onto the wood, maximizing cutting stability. • Folds for carrying and storage.

GET READY FOR WINTER WITH OUR COLLECTION OF FIRE ACCESSORIES Hearth & Home Metal Shovel with Wooden Handle, 9 inch £5.99 Hearth & Home Ash Pan £5.99 Hotspot Stove & Grate Polish £9.99 Hotspot High Temperature Grate Paint Matte Finish £8.99 Hotspot High Temperature Grate Paint Silk Finish £12.99 Quickfire Fire Lighters £1.79 Hearth & Home Fire Grate £22.99 Bartoline Premium Paraffin £12.99

RAMAGES DIY, BURSCOUGH 43 Liverpool Road North, Burscough, Lancashire L40 0SA Call 01704 892384

OPENING TIMES Mon–Fri: 9:00am–5:00pm Sat: 9:00am–5:00 pm Closed Sundays

RAMAGESDIY

SHOP ONLINE AT CHAINSAWSPECIALISTS.CO.UK clarkeandpulman.com

LOCAL MOT, TYRES, VEHICLE REPAIRS & SERVICING ON ALL MAKES & MODELS OF CAR AND VAN

STOCKISTS

INTERIOR SHAMPOO 500ml £6.83 + VAT

GLASS SPRAY 450ml £7.01 + VAT

All professional tyre services for car, van, agricultural & commercial vehicles

INTENSIVE TAR REMOVER 325ml £7.08 + VAT

• Engine Diagnostics from £42 incl. VAT • Air-con re-gas from £59.95 incl. VAT

HYPER FRESH GOLDEN SUNSET 450ml £7.53 + VAT

• Vehicle Repairs: Quick fit repairs including brakes, exhausts, batteries and clutches

CLEAN WHEELS 500ml £8.25 + VAT

New High Performance Tyres from all major brands: Maxxis, Nexen Tyre, Pirelli, Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, BF Goodrich, all with Lifetime Tyre Guarantee (T&C’s apply) HYPER FRESH CRUSHED BERRIES 450ml £7.53 + VAT

MICROFIBRE INTERIOR CLEANING CLOTH £4.17 + VAT

MOT FROM

.95

TYRE REPAIRS

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

NUMBER PLATES

FROM

18.00

incl. VAT

54.00

incl. VAT

10.20

GARSTANG TYRE SERVICES 119 Garstang Road, Claughton On Brock, Preston PR3 0PH

LEATHER CLEANER 500ml £6.67 + VAT

LEATHER CARE BALM 500ml £10.75 + VAT

BODYWORK SHAMPOO CONDITIONER 1l £6.83 + VAT

incl. VAT

OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday 8am – 12 noon Closed Sundays

Call: 01995 640196 Email: info@gtsservices.co.uk

NEW

FENDT 5275C 5 WALKER COMBINE

HONDA PIONEER 520

USED USED

USED USED KV 3M POWER HARROW

KV CLC 3M CULTIVATOR

JCB FASTRAC 4220

O JCB FASTRAC 4220

NEW NEW

NEW

KV 863 STRAW BEDDER

NEW

KV 6M FOLDING POWER HARROW

KV TL1875 GEOSPREAD

-D EX

NEW

KV 3M COMBINATION DRILL

SPREAD-A-BALE MIDI

MF 410

KV ES250 5 FURROW PLOUGH

JCB AGRI 1.5M 3 BUCKET

MF 1755 & MF 1520

USED

O -D EX

MF 8S.305 DYNA VT

HONDA TRX520CC AUTO QUAD

NEW

EX DEMO: MF 6S.180 DYNA 6

NEW

-D EX

NEW

KV 3300S 5 FURROW PLOUGH

NEW

FENDT 312 VARIO POWER AND LOADER

NEW

FENDT 211 VARIO POWER AND LOADER

NEW

NEW & USED MACHINERY

MF 7718 DYNA 6

clarkeandpulman.com

GRASS KIT FENDT FORMER 801 TWIN ROTOR RAKE

FENDT LOTUS 770 6 ROTOR TEDDER

KV 2628 PLAIN DISC MOWER

KV 2832 PLAIN DISC MOWER

Get ready for the season ahead with our selection of in-stock grass kit! 01995 640302

saleshub@clarkeandpulman.com

FENDT ROTANA 160V XTRA VARIABLE CHAMBER BALER

GRASS KIT SALES CONTACT OUR SALES HUB FOR OUR UP TO DATE STOCK LIST

CALL 01995 640 302 FENDT 130F XTRA FIXED CHAMBER BALER

MF RK662 TWIN ROTOR RAKE

MF TD524 4 ROTOR TEDDER

MF TD676 6 ROTOR TEDDER

MF DM316 PLAIN DISC MOWER

MF RB130F XTRA FIXED CHAMBER ROUND BALER

MF TD776 6 ROTOR TEDDER

MF TD1310X 10 ROTOR TEDDER

CALL OUR SALES TEAM FOR MORE INFORMATION TOM CLARKE 07799 896290

RICHARD BAMBER 07766 738391

MARY WALLBANK 07823 349653

TOM FORSHAW 07557 358690

MARTIN VALENTINE 07825 737013

RICHARD BRADLEY 07584 218267

GARY ABBOTT 07799 242501

RICHARD PINDER 07741 910951

AMY BARBER 07393 790834

STAFF FOCUS

APPRENTICESHIPS At C&P, we offer both AGCO and JCB apprenticeships, to become a fully qualified Land-Based Service Engineering Technician AGCO Apprenticeships • The course is four years long, and is fully funded by C&P. This time is spent 80% on the job, learning from our experienced technicians, whilst the remaining 20% will be spent at Moreton Morrell College in Warwickshire, where you will learn the fundamentals of engineering.

CONNOR COOPER APPRENTICE TECHNICIAN

• Earn whilst you learn; you will be paid a full-time wage whilst on the job, and at college, and we will also cover your expenses whilst you are away, including food and accommodation.

“I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship. I have learned so much since being here and I really like working on the different machines and problems. The team at C&P are really helpful, whenever I ask a question or need a hand, someone is always happy to help!”

Connor has just entered the third year of his apprenticeship at C&P. Since starting with us, Connor has expanded his knowledge and learned how to diagnose and fix machines, service machines and more.

• You will be mentored by our highly skilled and experienced Service Manager and senior technicians. • Course modules include a wide range of subjects including health and safety, workshop practices, engines, electrics/ electronics, hydraulics and transmissions. One of the most important skills to start developing is complex diagnosis which includes inspection and testing of mechanical/hydraulic/ electronic systems used on landbased machines and equipment. The apprenticeship delivers both theoretical and practical based sessions in industry standard training facilities.

“ THE TEAM AT C&P ARE REALLY HELPFUL, WHENEVER I ASK A QUESTION OR NEED A HAND, SOMEONE IS ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP!"

Qualifications

College

Congratulations to our Marketing Apprentice, Elle Walsh, who won the Rising Star Award at the Lancaster & Morecambe College Apprentice Awards 2023.

- Level 3 Land-Based Service Engineering Technician Apprenticeship which includes Theory and Practical exams, then a professional discussion with a Land-Based Industry Assessor. - AGCO Core Technical Training. - AGCO CVT and Hydrostatic type Transmissions - AGCO Power Engines. - AGCO online training.

Nestled in an expansive countryside campus, Moreton Morrell College is home to specialist land-based learning facilities. The College works in partnership, with a range of industry and awarding bodies to ensure that the content is relevant to the industry. Whilst at college, you will also undertake Manufacturer Technical Training at AGCO’s training academy nearby.

Elle has been with us for just over a year and has become a crucial member of the marketing team. From designing flyers, posters, and banners, to managing our social media accounts and email campaigns, Elle has flourished at Clarke & Pulman, and we can’t wait to see how much further she goes. Well done Elle, we are all so proud of you!

clarkeandpulman.com

MAZE

CAN YOU HELP MYLO FIND HIS WAY TO THE DOGGY TREAT JAR?

WORDSEARCH

GET COLOURING!

CAN YOU FIND THESE WORDS? MACHINE HAY–BALE DAIRY SNOW LEAF BARN

FEED TRACTOR ROPE PICKUP FEEDER

D W

B W

O H

Q W R

I'm dreaming of a country Christmas Christmas Shopping Event SATURDAY, 2 ND DECEMBER Open from 9am – 5pm

SUNDAY, 3 RD DECEMBER Open from 10 am – 5pm Join us at our Christmas Shopping Event, where there will be exclusive offers and discounts on your favourite country brands, including Fairfax & Favor, Holland Cooper, Barbour, Ariat and many more! There will also be food and refreshments, as well as an exclusive competition in aid of Rock FM’s Cash for Kids!

Join us at our newly extended store in Garstang! RUFFORD'S COUNTRY LIFESTYLE 119 Garstang Road, Claughton on Brock, Preston PR3 0PH T. 01995 640790 info@ruffords.co.uk Shop online at ruffords.com

We will be joined by a representative from Ariat on Sunday 3 rd December, to help with boot fittings and answer any questions.