Landscape & Amenity Product Update December 2019

Research reveals a skills and recruitment timebomb for groundscare industry

New independent research by the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has identified concerns about future opportunities to play sport on well-maintained natural turf pitches. Research findings highlight the fact that the number of young people embarking on a career in groundsmanship is in decline – and with over 40% of the workforce over the age 50, this is a worrying trend.

The report also shows that investment is urgently needed in adequate training and education to ensure groundscare professionals and volunteers are able to maintain safe, quality standard pitches to allow for increased demand for sports participation now and in the future.

As a result of these findings, the IOG has launched the Grounds4Sport campaign that calls on Government, sports bodies and industry to work together to bring about change, and to invest in natural turf pitches and the people who maintain them.

Grounds4Sport is targeted to give natural turf sports provision the re-boot it needs. The campaign will work to create: better pitches; more investment; more and better trained and qualified groundspeople; and raise the status of the profession. According to the findings of the IOG’s industry-wide survey ‘Groundsmanship – Sports Vital Profession’, the UK sports turf groundscare sector employs more than 26,000 people, is supported by at least 37,000 volunteers and is worth more than a staggering £1 billion a year to the economy. But the research also highlights areas of concern that, if not addressed, are a ticking time bomb for the industry.

“Local authority austerity and budget cuts have had, and continue to have, a damaging effect on grassroots grass pitches,” says the IOG’s chief executive Geoff Webb. “The steady deterioration in the quality and the overplay of many pitches is impacting on the playing programmes of some sports.

“The research findings show that two of every five grounds professionals are over 50 years old and 20% of those could retire within five years. With less than one in five groundscare staff below the age of 30 and our discovery that some employers are choosing not to recruit new, replacement staff when an existing member leaves or retires, we have a crisis looming.

“The time bomb issue doesn’t just apply to professionals.

“Our research identified that over two thirds of community grounds volunteers are over 60 and almost all are over 50.

“We applaud the commitment of these volunteers, and we are grateful of the support of our partners The Football Association, the Football Foundation and the England & Wales Cricket Board, but volunteers need more help, support and training.”

Insititue of Groundsmanship

The IOG’s research also reveals that the turf industry (in England and Wales alone) plays a significant role in the economy with:

• A direct staffing paybill (including on-costs) of around £588 million plus the volunteers’ in-kind paybill of more than £120 million;

• An operating budget (including grassroots and local government contractors) of around £478 million;

• A capital expenditure of around £600 million over the past five years; and Supports almost 5,000 businesses which employ at least 37,000 people.

Etesia launch new Hydro 80

Etesia chose SALTEX to officially launch the new Hydro 80 MKHP5 ride-on mower ahead of its official 2020 release.

The Hydro 80 MKHP5 can cut and collect in all conditions with the added benefit of a differential lock. The new model joins the popular Hydro 80 range and will give operators extra traction and stability on difficult, uneven and undulating terrain by reducing wheel spin, reducing damage to the grass and aid in cutting presentation.

The versatile mower also benefits from a mulching insert included as standard. The 80cm cutting width, 240 litre collecting box and impressive

Kawasaki FS481H 11.7 kW engine give it the cutting performance and raw power to impress while operating.

Thanks to a range of additional accessories including a snow plough, users are able to

extend the versatility of the machine so that it is ready for any scenario 365-days-a-year.

The Hydro 80 MKHP5 cuts and collects both long and short grass - without clogging.

Etesia

Winners of this year’s LI Awards 2019

As extreme weather - from flooding and intense storms to wildfires burning on several continents - becomes the new norm, the way we manage our landscapes is becoming even more important.

Many of the winners of the 2019 Landscape Institute (LI) Awards have tackling the climate and biodiversity emergency at the heart of what they are doing.

Announced at The Troxy in London, the winning projects showcase a range of crucial interventions: better managing water resources, using natural

methods to mitigate hurricane damage, reclaiming streets and green spaces, improving air quality, connecting our communities and restoring habitats.

Alongside the winners, Sir David Attenborough also attended the ceremony, where he was awarded the Landscape Institute Medal, recognising his phenomenal contribution to educating and to connecting people, place and nature over multiple generations. Sir David was also awarded Honorary Fellowship of the LI.

Landscape Institute

Disposing and shredding

Green Waste certainly can bring it’s challenges with many machines easily getting blocked up from leafy, wet green waste and taking time and money to get back up and running. Also the newly disposed material can be re-used on the ground as mulch, putting nutrients back into the ground.

PSD Groundscare offer robust and highly efficient Green Waste shredding solutions whether you’re a landscaper, local authority or arborist. Our extensive range is from 2 of the biggest industry names; Eliet and TS Industrie including self-propelled, PTO powered, tracked and towed models and suitable for material up to 21cm.

The range of Green Waste shredders from highly innovative Belgium manufacturer Eliet offer a range of self-propelled, PTO driven, tracked and trailed models for shredding material up to 16cm.

ELIET CHOPPING PRINCIPLE™: LET THE WOOD DO THE WORK –ELIET have developed and patented a unique shredder system, the Chopping Principle™. Just like a wood axe, the blades hack through the wood by going with the grain. The green waste is converted into small chips/shreds in a splitting and cutting cycle. This creates shredding material with quick-composting properties. Even shredding leaves and moist material is no problem for these shredders:

Welcome...

As we come to the end of another busy year the industry has continued to face a number of serious challenges throughout the last 12 months.

On the whole, 2019 has proved to be another hugely positive and successful year and there is undoubtedly growing recognition of the vitally important role the industry plays across the UK and farther afield.

One recurring issue throughout the year has remained skills, training and encouraging the next generation of worldleading professionals to cement their career within the industry.

The year has ended with important research and studies into the current education and training provision, including influential reports from the likes of the IOG, BALI and HTA. There has been significant progress in improving access to high quality skills training and education provision, but these latest reports also highlight how much work still needs to be done.

There are opportunities to improve skills training and education in 2020 and beyond the industry as a whole must continue to work together to ensure the progress continues.

A big thank you to everyone who came to see us on our stand at SALTEX 2019. It proved another successful show, with plenty of exciting new products and services unveiled during the two days at the NEC Birmingham. And early indications are we can expect more of the same at BTME 2020 in Harrogate next month.

This month we have our regular Play & Activity supplement, along with a review of SALTEX 2019 and a look back at some of the new products launched during 2019.

The team at TSP Media would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.

For larger material, the Green Series range from innovative German manufacturer TS Industrie offers a range of all-purpose and efficient trailed and PTO-driven shredders that are capable of shredding branches, shrubbery, and any green material up to 21cm. The efficiency comes from the patented mixed rotor that combines blades and hammers.

Benefits include:

• Six-fold reduction in volume

• Compared with a simple rotor with hammers, the additional blades achieve great results

• The additional hammers are used to shred the green material, thereby ensuring a longer service life for the blades

• The excellent air supply guarantees excellent discharge of green material, even when moist

A TRIED-AND-TESTED SYSTEM

If the diameter of the wood is too large, the hammers can move out of the way and the blades cut the material. Sections of branches and green waste then pass through the hammers to be discharged, largely shredded, out of the rotor. The scope of the hammers is greater than the scope of the blades, therefore the hammers work first, reducing wear and tear on the blades. The hammers experience less wear, as only the screwed inserts need to be replaced.

Paul Groves, Editor

in Landscape & Amenity Product Update, the publisher does not accept liability for errors and omissions, printing or otherwise, that may appear in this publication. The journal includes photographs provided and paid for by suppliers. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or any retrieval system without the consent of the publisher.

shredding

demonstration:

BE BLOWN AWAY

POWERFUL & EASY TO USE

Well-balanced and powerful handheld blower for professional use. The patented X-torq engine technology in combination with the special fan and housing design means high blowing capacity that is easy to control. The anti-vibration system Low Vib makes work less strenuous – even during long shifts. With intuitive controls, such as Cruise Control which contribute to efficient and convenient operation at all times.

For more information and to locate your local Authorised Husqvarna dealer visit: HUSQVARNA.COM/UK

525BX PETROL BLOWER

Powerful, ultra-low vibration handheld blower with high blowing capacity.

• 25.4cm³ Displacement

• 4.3kg Weight

• 1.2m/s2 Vibrations

• 13m³/min, 70m/s

Rain Bird’s root watering system protects the investment

Not every new tree or shrub that is planted will survive and thrive. The reasons are varied, but unless roots successfully establish themselves in the surrounding ground, failure is always possible.

Protecting the investment in trees and shrubs should be high on the priority list in any landscaping project.

Rain Bird’s Root Watering System (RWS) is a highly effective solution. Thousands of openings in its perforated tube construction ensure vital water, oxygen and nutrients bypass compacted ground and are delivered directly to root systems. Subsurface, deep root

horizontal watering and aeration using RWS full circle bubbler technology ensures tree health and encourages deeper, broader roots for a stable foundation.

One or multiple RWS units can be connected by pipe to a valve which in turn is connected to an irrigation controller. This manages watering programs that can be set for specific frequencies and lengths of time.

With Rain Bird’s LNK Wifi module, irrigation schedules can be changed using a smartphone or tablet. RWS comes as a ready to install as a plug and play solution.

UltraScape’s BS 7533 compliant Mortar Paving System makes a new attraction ship-shape

Whitby’s latest family tourist attraction is The Endeavour Experience, this visitor experience focuses around the HM Bark Endeavour, the only life size replica of Captain Cook’s ship in the northern hemisphere.

In order to develop the attraction fully, the selected 1500m² dockside area surrounding the ship required paving and cobbles to be reinstated.

A robust, long-life, cost effective mortar solution was required to secure the paved and reclaimed cobbled area, with the capacity to cope with a heavy tourist footfall and saltwater conditions with precipitation. Additionally the area needed to be safe and slip resistant for pedestrians, yet sympathetic to the historic surrounding environment. Speed of application was another key requirement for the project.

Pre-blended for ease of use, it can be laid from 10mm – 75mm, is shrinkage compensated and can be opened to foot traffic in just 12 hours, allowing contractors to move on to the next part of the project quickly. It was supplied in 1 tonne bulk bags in this instance; perfect for large pedestrianisation projects.

Formulated to provide an exceptional bond between a paving element and pro-bed HS, pro-prime slurry primer is formulated to eliminate costly failures caused by general wear and tear and heavy load bearing.

Ideal for large scale projects, flowpoint rapid set flowable grout is available in three varieties and two colours – Charcoal and Natural Grey. With an initial set after just 15 minutes and a walk on time of one hour, flowpoint provides fast application, costeffective and robust jointing.

High capacity litter bin with traditional style

The new Square Heritage XL 240L litterbin from Leafield Environmental is designed to reduce the number of individual litter units required or decrease the frequency with which bins need emptying.

It houses a 240 litre wheelie bin which makes emptying an easy proposition while reducing the risk of injury by manual handling and speeding up the overall collection process.

Made from 100% recycled, UV stabilised medium density polyethylene (MDPE), the Square Heritage 240L has a double-skin wall structure for ultimate rigidity and durability while the lack of a base floor makes locating and removing the wheelie bin an easier proposition.

A moulded-in ground fixing facility enhances stability while the ribbed exterior discourages flyposting and graffiti.

The large front ‘lift and drop’ door provides safe and easy access to a standard 240litre wheelie bin. It has ‘slam

shut’ multi-point locking mechanism, a heavy duty, automotive grade, corrosion free lock and a concealed hinge with a flush finish.

The curved hood prevents waste being left on the top of the bin and discourages climbing. It incorporates a metal stubber plate and the underside provides the housing for an optional fire extinguisher.

Four large, moulded through apertures ensure there are no rough edges to cause injury to users. A separate stubber plate can be affixed to each aperture if required.

Each face of the bin has a facility for attaching posters and a separate area for litter/dog waste signage and to enhance the overall appearance, optional decorative gold banding is available.

Leafield Environmental

sprayer with tank capacities from 100 to 400 litres.

UltraScape’s BS 7533 compliant Mortar Paving System was selected by Scarborough Council for the job, to be laid by Wilf Noble Construction & Plant Hire Ltd. This effective system comprises of pro-bed HS fine bedding mortar, pro-prime slurry primer and flowpoint rapid set flowable grout.

UltraScape pro-Bed HS is a fine bedding mortar formulated to meet and exceed the strict requirements set out in the British Standard.

Projects incorporating BS 7533 compliant materials can be relied on to reduce failures and considerable whole life cost savings.

All products in UltraScape’s Mortar Paving System have been independently tested by an UKAS accredited laboratory to assess their performance capabilities. This method removes the uncertainty of site batched mortars and offers a minimum construction life of 40 years.

Instarmac

Rain Bird

Snickers Workwear’s new Hoodies and Sweatshirts

The new range of Hoodies and Sweatshirts for craftsmen and women are probably the most comfortable we’ve ever designed.

The ‘Full Zip’ or ‘Overhead’ Sweatshirt and Hoodie choices are ideally combined with Snickers’ First and Second Layer Undergarments and can comfortably be worn under a jacket on chilly days.

Street-smart and great for onsite or leisure activities there’s a

range of styles and colour options to choose from.

They’re made from a cosy, durable polycotton fabric for extra ruggedness and have a softbrushed finish on the inside for extra comfort plus handwarmer pockets at the front.

They also feature an unmistakable Snickers logo and are ideal for company profiling.

Architect-designed home with customised automatic irrigation

Rosewood Irrigation Services of St Albans is seeing increasing interest from the residential sector for professional irrigation systems, including the owners of a new architect-designed family home on a half acre plot.

Rosewood decided to use Rain Bird products exclusively, sourced through Landscape Watering Services. An automatic irrigation system managed by Rain Bird’s ESP- ME controller was designed.

Surface dripline was specified for the flower beds and borders so that irrigation could be provided exactly where needed, close to plants’ roots and minimising the risk of wastage through water run-off. 90º and 180º pop-up sprinklers work in tandem covering the grassed areas.

A Rain Bird Root Watering System protects investment in new pleached hornbeam screening, providing essential irrigation in the infancy of the trees’ life. The ESP-ME has provided the facility to create the 14 different irrigation zones with three different timed watering programs.

A Rain Bird rain sensor monitors rainfall levels and automatically overrides the controller to curtail irrigation cycles when appropriate.

Festive support available from Perennial this Christmas

Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture across the UK, is ready to support families and individuals this Christmas who are feeling the festive strain or struggling with unexpected or life changing events such as redundancy or health issues.

The charity is offering people who work in or are retired from horticulture and are struggling financially this Christmas with up to £100 worth of supermarket vouchers.

They can be used to help with food and presents for children who would otherwise go without.

Perennial is also reminding everyone in horticulture about their wide-ranging tailored, oneto-one support this Christmas.

Julia Hayne, Director of Services at Perennial, says: “Christmas should be a time of fun and festivities for everyone working in horticulture but often the reality is very different which can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety and loneliness.

“Many people feel added pressure at this time of year with more demands on their already stretched financial resources, anxiety about meeting everyone’s expectations or feelings of isolation from those around them.

“If you are struggling in the lead up to Christmas, you’re not alone. Please get in touch with us to find out how we can support you and your family.”

Perennial

choice The new GM3000 series

Rain Bird

Snickers

A secure base for Christmas markets

The Historic Hitchin Market paving refurbishment and repointing for Christmas 2010 was carried out using GftK’s vdw 850 plus Paving Joint Mortar, following extensive evaluations, trials of all available products for 12 months by the responsible engineers.

Now in 2019, just as in the inspection two years ago, after 10 years in full service, it is still look good, performing in all weather conditions and under frequent heavy trafficking in this busy market square.

a very different and far more demanding environment for paving and particularly the pointing, since their original installation many decades and even hundreds of years ago.

This is due to the much higher and greater frequency of very heavy-duty loadings and all sorts of modern traffic exposure, plus frequent mechanical street cleaning.

November weather. This unique pointing material is based on ideally graded, water dispersed, epoxy resin coated and bound, alluvial, no-fines quartz sand.

As town centres and market squares around the country hold their annual Christmas markets again, the story of the historic Hitchin Market Square will likely be of interest to local authorities, their professional advisors and contractors as they review their facilities and begin preparations for 2020 and beyond.

This is particularly important in relation to areas of loose and otherwise dangerous, dodgy and frequently repointed paving stones in these areas.

In 2017 a detailed eightyear durability evaluation of the Granite Sett Paving was carried out in Hitchin, with site inspections by the team from PavingExpert.com.

This Hitchin Town Centre Paving Refurbishment Inspection Report can be viewed in full here: http://www.pavingexpert.com/ point_ncc06.htm

Like many historic town centres and market squares around the UK, these are now

However, by working in phases and without closing the popular weekly markets, this project was completed on time for the Christmas markets and celebrations, and it was completed on budget.

The repointing work was able to continue as programmed, by using GftK’s unique vdw 850 paving joint mortar, even despite the cold, wet and unpredictable October and

No-fines means that no-dust is produced during the mixing process, which is another very important advantage for such repointing works in occupied streets with the adjacent shops, businesses and their customers continuing to operate with minimal disruption.

Equally, the contractor could continue to work with no disruption due to the weather and having to put additional barriers, sheeting and other protective measures in place.

This is all in addition to the fact that as the authority’s engineers had found in their pre-contract testing, any traditional or prepacked, cement based, or single-pack paving pointing mortars would all effectively be useless and doomed to failure in these conditions of application.

As a result this month after a full 10 years in service, the historic granite sett paving of Hitchin Market Square repointed with GftK’s vdw 850 from NCC Streetscape, is still looking great and is a valuable asset to the Town, most importantly it will also continue to do so for many more years.

NCC Streetscape

Report pushes for urgent investment in public playgrounds

The APPG on a Fit & Healthy Childhood has released its 14th report: Mental Health Through Movement and says that ‘movement is the mainspring for children’s mental health’.

The Association of Play Industries (API) has been delighted to contribute significantly to the report, outlining how children are pulled indoors by the power of digital culture and pushed away from outdoor play due to severe cuts to playground provision.

API Chair Mark Hardy says: “Over 1100 parents responded to our Play MustStay survey through Mumsnet telling us loudly and clearly that this is an issue they are extremely worried about.

“All scientific evidence points to the fact that movement is vital for children’s mental health and for normal, healthy development. We have now a generation of children who are being deprived of free, unstructured, outdoor play and as such, a troubled generation.

“Parents know this instinctively. Over a quarter of those parents surveyed who have children with mental health difficulties said that the lack of local playgrounds had played a role in their children’s problems. This result was replicated also for those children experiencing issues with their sleep.

“Frustratingly, one of the core solutions to the mental health crisis is a simple and relatively cheap one: as most children live in urban areas, playgrounds often represent their only opportunity for outdoor play.

“Unless the alarming cuts to playground provision uncovered in our Nowhere To Play research are reversed, and more playgrounds created to secure future outdoor play, the mental health crisis will spiral yet deeper.

“There is now an urgent need to restore outdoor play as the primary leisure activity for children, replacing indoor, solitary and sedentary screenbased time.

“Children sit for hours on end, not moving or socialising and this is having a devastating impact on their mental and physical health.

we have to ‘catch’ children and imbue in them a sense that outdoor play is the norm, so ensuring that movement becomes a lifetime habit.

healthy children, in body and mind. Playgrounds need to be abundant, accessible, safe and convenient to truly meet the needs of communities.

“Free, community playgrounds are absolutely key in this. We must not take them for granted; once a playground is lost it is usually lost for good. As the report points out, this is not about a nanny state interfering, it is about empowering and supporting parents in their endeavours to raise fit and

“We are calling upon the government for urgent and sustained funding for public playground provision; a relatively modest investment now will pay great dividends for this and generations to come.” API

Playscheme calls for public playground investment Thousands of children go out to play for Playday 2019

The playground creators at Playscheme are getting behind the Association of Play Industries (API) “Play Must Stay” campaign, which highlights alarming trends in playground closures and increases in children’s screentime.

The API’s research shows that more than one public playground is closed every week, with a 44% decrease in spend on play facilities forecast by 2020/21 when compared to 2017/18.

Simultaneously, parents are highlighting that having access to playgrounds would make their child more active and that nearly 50% of parents are struggling to persuade their child to leave their screen behind. As API members, Playscheme is echoing the Association’s call for urgent and sustained investment in public

play provision. Steve Danby, Playscheme Managing Director, said, “The API’s research shows that increasing local play provision encourages children to play outside more and to move away from their screens.”

He adds: “As well as sustained local and government investment, we believe there’s a need for us all to play our part in encouraging children to be active. We can set good examples ourselves, and we can also call on those who

“Our research shows that, as early as age 8, children are starting to shun outdoor play in favour of screen time, and by the ages of 10 to 12, 69% of them prefer screens, with parents finding it difficult to persuade them to go outside. There is a critical period when have influence – such as social media companies – to do their part. Today, for example, if you want to post a status update to Facebook to say you’re “playing”, the lead icon that pops up is a games console. If you search for social media gifs on the theme of “play”, you’ll find plenty of cat videos, but scant evidence of children playing. In our view, this does little to encourage children to be active.”

Playscheme

Thousands of children and young people from across the UK went out playing, celebrating Playday – the national day for play – in August. Hundreds of local and regional play events are taking place to promote the importance of children’s right to play. Having plenty of opportunities to explore and play outdoors is essential for children’s physical and mental health, as well as their happiness, learning and development.

The Playday 2019 theme – Play Builds Children – highlights the many ways play is good for children:

• Play Builds Friendships –playing allows children to interact with others, develop relationships, deal with

conflict, and learn respect and tolerance.

Play Builds Resilience –playing boosts children’s confidence, creativity, problem-solving skills and perseverance, enabling them to cope with stress and challenges throughout life.

• Play Builds Health and Wellbeing – being active through play helps children physically and emotionally, contributing to their health and happiness.

• Play Builds Communities –playing allows children to learn about the world around them, make connections, and develop a sense of identity and belonging.

Playday

New play area for Birmingham Children’s Hospital

physical and interactive games against each other. Exercises and games are created with the E-Wall via a simple to use app. Children then answer the questions by running and jumping, hitting appropriate flashing satellite buttons.

The play area is finished with colourful wet pour surfacing which includes a train track with train and carriage for imaginative play. Surrounding the space is a huge bespoke mural featuring train tunnels and rolling countryside to let children’s imaginations run wild!

Nursery helps trio of local primary schools to bloom

Commercial nursery Johnsons of Whixley is helping to nurture the next generation of gardeners by donating plants and bulbs to three local primary schools.

Johnsons provided more than 600 daffodil bulbs, 12 bags of compost and 300 pots to Kirk Hammerton Church of England Primary and Tockwith Church of England Primary Academy, where greenfingered pupils will plant and tend the bulbs. Four members of the Richardson family, which owns Johnsons, attended Kirk Hammerton primary school, which is just a mile and a half from the company’s main site.

space for children who wanted ‘quiet time’.

The project was the culmination of several months of design and development between the Wicksteed in-house design team and the Hospital.

The previous play area didn’t offer the children enough play value and would only keep them engaged for short periods.

Children can spend long weeks/ months as patients in the hospital and the play area is an important area for them to enjoy their free time. It was vital that the design for the hospital was inclusive, colourful and packed full of sensory play features.

Birmingham Children’s Hospital now has a play area which caters for a wide age range of children of all abilities. The design features inclusive items such as the Swirl Roundabout and Mini Basket Swing and a football/ basketball area for ball games.

The hospital specified a sensory area so that there was a

The sensory area has an artificial grass surface with seating, musical items and activity panels.

As well as an abundance of exciting new play equipment such as slides and roundabouts, the new play area at the hospital now features our innovative electronic play equipment.

The Wicksteed E-Wall allows children to play educational,

Birmingham Children’s Hospital is our second successful project working alongside the NHS this year.

Adding colourful spaces where children can, for a couple of hours at least, escape to fantasy worlds and go on their own adventure or even just get a bit of quiet time to read their favourite book makes all of our jobs here at Wicksteed tremendously worthwhile.

Wicksteed Playgrounds

In addition, the company donated 60 plants worth £150 to Coppice Valley Primary School in Harrogate, where Johnsons’ client Ray Skeltons (Harrogate) Ltd is carrying out a landscaping project. Among the plants gifted to the school were Lavender Hidcote, Hebe ‘Red Edge’ Photinia ‘Red Robin’, Euonymus ‘Emerald Gaiety’, Skimmia rubella and Choisya ternata ‘sundance’.

This latest round of donations brings the total value of plants given to local schools this year to nearly £4,000. Included in this was a donation of plants worth £2,500 to Springwater Special School, Harrogate, lavenders worth £540 to Tockwith Church of England Primary Academy and £50 of plants to Roecliffe Church

of England Primary School.

Justin Reeve Headteacher at Tockwith School said: “Thank you so much to Johnsons of Whixley’s for giving every child in the school the opportunity to add a bit of colour to their own gardens by donating a daffodil plant. We are very grateful for this generous offering and the chance for our children to plant and tend to the bulbs.”

Emma Meadus Headteacher at Coppice Valley Primary School said: “We are so grateful to Johnson’s of Whixley and their generous donation. With their help, we are working towards redeveloping the space at the front of the school into a community garden with space for enjoying nature and growing food.

“The beautiful plants from Johnson’s have become part of our wellbeing space for all the community to enjoy.”

Kirk Hammerton

“We are so fortunate to have

of Johnsons of Whixley who provided daffodils bulbs for all of the children. The children are patiently awaiting a break in the weather so that they can plant the bulbs in our wilderness garden. We all look forward to them appearing in the spring!”

Eleanor Richardson, marketing and sales co-ordinator at Johnsons, said: “We love helping out local schools and charities where we can, especially when there’s a chance of encouraging the next generation of gardeners.I remember planting bulbs the same way at Kirk Hammerton Church of England Primary School, so it’s great to be providing bulbs in the same way over 18 years later, I always thoroughly enjoyed seeing them pop up in the spring.”

Johnsons of Whixley

Wicksteed was delighted to see the opening of the new inclusive play area at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

primary school added:

the support

Coastal hit for Gerflor at Atlantic Academy with Taraflex®

The contribution of the school environment to a child’s development with daily physical activity through sport and physical education (PE) cannot be ignored.

The role that sport now plays in the ‘Academies’ environment is proving to be a fundamental building block in the overall pupil’s experience.

Atlantic Academy’s brand-new building at Bucks Cross in North Devon finally opened its doors in September 2018. As part of the overall curriculum Atlantic Academy aim for all students to excel, both in lessons and through extra-curricular activities which includes a huge focus on sport and fitness.

In specifying the new facilities, the team at the main construction firm Willmott Dixon recommended sports flooring that would not only be of the highest quality, but would also be suitable for multiple uses, would be fit for purpose and deliver a future proof solution which is so vital in the education sector.

It would be a challenge wellmet by international flooring specialist Gerflor supplying 621m2 of their world-renowned Taraflex ® Comfort sports flooring in Blue for the sports hall and 582m2 Multi-Use sports flooring in Wood Grey for the performance space.

Specifying Gerflor’s Taraflex® was the ideal choice in terms of delivering a speedy installation, together with providing highend sports performance that the successful school basketball team required as well as the required safety and comfort for players.

The Construction Manager Michael Mackey from Willmott Dixon commented: “This was a Scape 3 Project which we tendered for back in 2012. The tog value of the cushioned vinyl sports flooring needed to be a certain rating in order to achieve the output performance specification for the underfloor heating.

“The Gerflor chosen sports floorings are performing really well and delivering exactly the results we wanted.”

The Taraflex ® ranges have been used by the largest international sports federations (volleyball, handball, badminton, table tennis) for decades. Through partnerships with these federations Gerflor has been present at the Summer Olympic Games since 1976. It’s an Olympic pedigree stretching back over an incredible 43 years.

Taraflex ® sports floorings are not only associated with international sporting events but continue to be a popular choice in a vast array of education markets and applications.

Gerflor understands how important it is to future proof school, college and other learning building interiors, therefore their solutions offer optimum safety, comfort, performance and are competitively priced to meet the needs of most education budgets.

Taraflex® Comfort is a P3 category sports flooring, ideal for a variety of sport and leisure activities.

Offering the highest level of shock absorption, minimising the force of impact on the body and reducing long term injury risk. Taraflex® Comfort is available in 17 colours and three wood-effect designs as standard.

Taraflex ® Multi-use is a P1 category sports flooring designed with both sport and non-sport use in mind, making it ideal for multi-purpose areas including school halls.

It protects players with excellent shock absorption and impact protection. Yet it’s tough enough to protect itself against non-sport demands often found in schools such as tables and chairs.

Taraflex ® Multi-use being available in 5 wood-effect and

2 concrete-effect designs. Both products are available in an extra 110 solid colour options with a 500sqm minimum order quantity.

The products are also treated with Protecsol, which renders

polish redundant and is triple action meaning no polish is ever required, it contributes to easy maintenance and is anti-friction burn and slide/grip.

Spadeoak creates outdoor gym from recycled knives

A majority of the equipment featured in the park in Brixton, South London, is made from recycled knives. It is the latest project from Steel Warriors - a charity that aims to reduce the number of young people carrying knives in the UK through melting down knives that haven’t been used in conflict and creating spaces for exercise.

Spadeoak laid the sub-base, kerbs, equipment and foundations and rubber cumb top-layer on the project, and those involved are delighted to have played their part in such an important project.

Mounted spreader with adjustable stainless steel deflectors and manual or hydraulic shutter control. Available in 250 litre, 560 litre and 750 litre hopper capacities.

See our landscape mainenance range at www.kuhn-amenitypro.co.uk

Gerflor

Contractor Spadeoak has completed work on a new outdoor calisthenics gym with a difference.

The Steel Warriors project aims to create 20 gyms in total, is supported by the Co-op and contractor Harry Grover, and boasts patrons like former world heavyweight champion boxer Anthony Joshua.

Spadeoak

Building a robust maintenance program is vital for the preservation of play

The nation’s parks are in peril. With the rate of playground closures at an all-time high, maintenance is in the spotlight with high ongoing costs being identified as the primary cause of playgrounds being decommissioned.

With the health of our children at risk, it is more important than ever that doorstep play facilities are available for all, and addressing the issue of maintenance is a key element of the ongoing preservation of play.

A large scale research program carried out by The Association of Play Industries (API) recently highlighted the alarming rate of closures. By 2020 there will have been a 44% decrease in spend on play, and around 500 play areas will have been closed nationally.

Cash strapped local authorities do not have the manpower or the budgets to ensure that the play areas are being kept in a safe condition, so the alternative is simply to rip out the equipment.

Paul Collings, Managing Director at Timberplay comments: “Maintenance should be a key consideration in any play development. Typically clients focus all of their budget into the initial design, creating a play area that delivers the ‘wow factor’ without any consideration for how this will look a few years down the line.

Whereas this is understandable, it is a shortcoming that needs addressing, particularly when local authorities are struggling with diminishing budgets.”Of course maintenance costs will vary from project to project, but in terms of ball park figures, it is prudent to allow between 5% and 10% of the initial cost as an ongoing maintenance budget.

German play supplier, Richter Spielgeräte manufactures some of the most highly regarded play equipment in the world.

Although the initial cost is high, great efforts have been made to ensure that the product will perform over the long term. However, wear and tear is unavoidable, which is why they try to isolate the parts that are likely to deteriorate so that these elements can be easily replaced, minimising the repair costs and ensuring longevity of the products.

Timberplay have a dedicated maintenance service, which clients can sign up to at a level suitable for the usage of their play area. Although waterplay is one of the most beneficial sources of play it can also be one of the most susceptible to maintenance issues.

Maintenance Manager, Steve Juggins comments: “To a certain extent waterplay is a victim of its own success. The popularity and

fantastic play value of this type of equipment can sometimes result in unexpected repair costs. The likelihood of this scenario can easily be avoided if the parks management adopt the policy of pre-planned, routine maintenance.

The main problem occurs when the recommended winter decommissioning procedure is not implemented. Freezing conditions can have a detrimental effect on the internal parts of the equipment which often lead to the failure of that particular valve. When the potentially problematic weather has passed the equipment can be re-commissioned the following spring.

Timberplay and Richter therefore strongly advise that park managers follow these recommendations in order to preserve longevity and reliability of the equipment.”

In addition to offering a

Safety first at major shopping venue

Westfield Shopping Centre, the largest shopping centre in the UK, recently contacted RTC Safety Services with a unique request.

Dave Green, Technical Production/Project Manager at Westfield Europe Ltd required 309 square metres of beige wet pour to be installed directly onto DPC membrane to create a curved pathway in the centre of the shopping centre.

What made this project unique, was that the wet pour safety surfacing was in fact installed as part of a summer event display. As over 20 million people are expected to visit Westfield Shopping Centre throughout the year during daytime hours, this unique installation proved to be challenging.

de-commissioning / recommissioning service for Waterplay, Timberplay are more than happy to instruct the park managers and staff on how to carry out this procedure as a one off at no extra cost.

The rate of playground closures currently happening on a National Scale represents a failure of our children and young people. With emerging health issues on the rise with our younger generations, playgrounds serve a

very significant purpose, and one that Public Authorities cannot undervalue.

For many children, a visit to a neighbourhood play park is one of the only physical activities they regularly participate in, moreover play areas also provide a fundamental space for building community interaction. A nation without play spaces will be a poorer place for everyone.

Timberplay

With a detailed design and numerous phone calls, the RTC team were able to fulfil the demands initially without a site visit due to our technical knowledge and expertise.

From the initial enquiry to the completed installation, RTC was able to meet additional requirements with a turnaround in less than a month.

What also challenged the team was that this brief required an overnight installation as the shopping centre’s customers caused near impossible access for us during the day as RTC had to take into account the Health and Safety implications.

Over three night shifts, the installation was completed comprising of beige wet pour

laid to a curved path design in London’s biggest mall. The wet pour pathway became part of The Beach Club event.

Dave Green commented: “We chose RTC because of their obvious experience in the field, and their impressive portfolio online. It was also obvious to me that they would be able to fulfil our stringent health and safety requirements.

“RTC supported us at a budget level and were very attentive in a relatively short lead time. The team onsite were courteous, pleasant and cooperative, which is even harder on a night shift. RTC will be our first choice in another similar challenge.”

RTC Safety Services

Lilly Elbra, Marketing Manager at Timberplay takes a look at the current climate for play, and the threats it is facing.

Say goodbye to ordinary ball courts and hello to familyinclusive zones

When we think of a ball court, we tend to picture a grey, rectangular, asphalt area with a set of goals or hoops at either end – usually with some kind of wired caging around the perimeter.

Pretty uninspiring, right? Well, that’s all changed… thanks to the vision and mission of a leading innovator –Playinnovation.

Playinnovation, one of the world’s most exciting playground equipment designers and installers, has spent the past 10 years redefining the ball court to create a new type of recreation space; one that enables all ages and abilities to enjoy being active – bringing friends, families and communities together.

Breaking from tradition, Playinnovation divides its ball courts into different, familyinclusive zones to provide something for everyone.

Using its unique target games (both fun and educational), basketball hoops with supercool backboards, and bespoke surfacing, it creates vibrant and inspirational environments, unlike

anything you’ve seen before. What’s more, Playinnovation offers an all-in-one solution for basketball and football with its innovative, multi-purpose goal.

Whatever your vision, Playinnovation has the creativity and expertise to bring your ball court to life.

Playinnovation

Going green for primary school project

Vicar’s Green Primary School approached Creative Play looking to develop a blank grassed area to introduce a selection of physical equipment to challenge KS2 children, along with a seated area.

We visited the school to assess the area understand the requirements of the school.

Following the visit, we sat with our design team to create an area that offers physical play through a variety of equipment such as one of our Jigsaw Play Towers that provides many play features to allow multiple children to enjoy at one time, a selection of Trim Trail including items such as a Tyre Crossing, Zigzag Beam and Overhead Ladder.

To keep in line with the appearance of the surrounding area we have laid artificial grass beneath and around the equipment – this also guaranteed the area to meet BSEN standards.

One of our Octavia Shelters was also incorporated to offer a seating area for children to take that well deserved break but also encourages children to take shelter from the sun during peak

times and provides a resource to take learning outdoors and using it as an outdoor classroom.

The area has been completely transformed to offer many benefits and includes so much play value for children to enjoy for many years to come – it is amazing what you can do with a blank area you think has no use!

A Flywheel first

Eythorne Parish Council has become the first playground in the UK to install our innovative new Flywheel roundabout.

The Elvington Play Area in Kent is the proud owner of the roundabout that has room for up to nine children to enjoy at once. The Flywheel features a central seating area for up to six children and three support bars to allow three more children to stand up. The bars also enable three children at once

to generate movement creating an exhilarating ride.We added the Flywheel alongside a new seesaw to an existing playground to improve the play value of an already much-loved playground.

Suzanne Collins from Eythorne Parish Council says: “We love the new equipment and we’re delighted that the children in our community are the first to enjoy Sutcliffe Play’s new Flywheel. The response has already been fantastic and it’s a

pleasure to watch children playing together on the new equipment.”

Modern roundabouts are a playground classic that come in many different forms and whilst children love the fun and speed they add to playgrounds there are many other benefits. Roundabouts help children to develop a better understanding of risk, they improve balance and encourage teamwork.

Sutcliffe Play

Creative Play

ECHO’s resounding success at SALTEX

ECHO’s range of commercial products for groundscare and landscaping professionals featured the ECHO X Series line of products which redefine standards with low weight and high power.

Two new products in the series were introduced, the ECHO CS-2511WES rear handle chainsaw and ECHO’s latest and most powerful backpack blower, the PB-8010.

“We had ECHO’s busiest ever SALTEX over the two days this year,” says Matt Wilson, AriensCo UK Sales Manager, “with great interest in the X Series and 50v battery products we displayed. Visitors to the stand were knowledgeable and the sales leads were good quality.”

Power to weight ratio is where the emphasis lies in the ECHO CS-2511WES professional chainsaw, the lightest and most compact rear-handle chainsaw in the ECHO range.

Handling it at the show, visitors were surprised at its light weight.

At just 2.6kg (dry weight), it’s ideal for use over long periods without fatigue and yet, with its premium-grade ECHO two-stroke engine, it packs a powerful output of 1.1kW.

AriensCo distributes the ECHO products across the UK through a network of authorised dealerships.

ECHO

Walker Mower success at SALTEX

Out front mower manufacturer Walker Mowers representatives from Belgium, Switzerland and the US Head Office in Fort Collins – met with their UK colleagues to launch the new R21 model for the first time in Europe at the SALTEX Exhibition.

The new model aimed at the consumer market includes all the features and benefits of their commercial machines, benefits that show a reduction in time and effort when mowing the lawn, with mulching mowers that give that well-groomed finish.

Dealers visiting the Walker stand gave the machines a thumbs up and the first orders have already been placed with the UK sales force.

UK Country Manager Steve Egerton said: “With the introduction of this new machine it suddenly opens up a new market for the out front mowing concept from Walker. Our dealers have shown a real liking to the construction, mower deck options and the affordable price tag.”

Walker Mowers

EGO saws to the top at SALTEX 2019

EGO displayed its new selfpropelled mower and chainsaw, featuring a world’s first autotensioning chain, and the new Rotocut attachment at SALTEX this year.

and prevents debris from being thrown, making it ideal for use in built up areas.

EGO’s range offers professionals a solution to issues many of them face every day, such as the importance of using environmental and user-friendly equipment, whilst providing a high-quality result.

Gkb machines, taking our knowledge of contracting to supply the best possible machine solution. Be it a natural, synthetic or hybrid pitch.. we have a machine to suit your needs.

Gkb machines, taking our knowledge of contracting to supply the best possible machine solution. Be it a natural, synthetic or hybrid pitch.. we have a machine to suit your needs.

our knowledge of contracting to supply the best possible machine solution. Be it a natural, synthetic or hybrid pitch.. we have a machine to suit your needs.

www.gkbmachines.com / tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88 36 17

www.gkbmachines.com / tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88 36 17

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Also joining the range is the new 10Ah battery, providing even longer run-times and a bristle brush attachment to be used with the industry leading Multi-Tool.

A chainsaw demonstration attracted passers-by showing how easy and powerful the new chainsaw is to use, boasting its auto-tensioning chain with an impressive 20m/s chain speed and quiet brushless motor.

Answering a strong demand in the market, EGO’s new Rotocut attachment cuts through grass, weeds and moss on concrete, pathways and verges with ease. Featuring two counter-rotating blades, it maximises run-time

Steve Roskell, Marketing Director EMEA at EGO, commented: “Interest in EGO continues to grow significantly, firmly establishing us as the cordless specialists. It’s encouraging to see so many dealers and users embrace our battery technology and move away from petrol-powered products. This trend will only intensify as health and environmental issues are put front and centre.”

EGO

New residual herbicide brings resistance management benefits

Bayer has brought a new residual pre-emergence herbicide to the UK market, adding another product to the amenity contractor’s armoury.

Lewis Blois, Bayer national account manager, says Valdor Flex (MAPP:19033) contains a unique new formulation.

“The pre-emergence herbicide contains two active ingredients, that prevent the emergence of a broad spectrum of weeds for up to four months, reducing the frequency of traditional herbicide applications,” he explains.

“The product provides excellent residual control for even the hardest to manage weeds on a wide range of surfaces, including open soil, gravel and industrial areas.”

The combination of active ingredients, Valdor Flex acts

as a valuable tool for resistance management within the weed control sector.

“The herbicide provides good control of numerous weeds, while the two active ingredients, diflufenican and iodosulfuronmethyl-sodium, help to minimise the risk of resistance with two different modes of action,” he adds.

“Valdor Flex can be used as a stand-alone application on bare ground before weed emergence. But if weeds are present it can be mixed with glyphosate, which provides the initial knockdown, while Valdor Flex will provide residual control preventing subsequent weeds emerging for up to four months.”

Lewis says the correct amount of product should be mixed to cover the given spray area for that day.

However, he explains Valdor Flex is stable in water for at least 24 hours, so if for some reason there is any spray solution left in the tank it can be used the following day.

Bayer

Snickers Workwear’s new Loose-fit Stretch Trousers for maximum mobility on-site

Hi-tech stretch fabrics and ergonomic designs ensure close quarter mobility at work.

With a range of new AllroundWork stretch trousers available throughout the UK, there’s plenty of flexibility for every professional craftsman and woman to stretch their performance on site comfortably.

The new stretchy work trousers for men have a loose fit for a classic Snickers Workwear look and feel, with stretch Cordura for increased durability as well as improved ventilation and close quarter mobility.

What’s more, the new slim-fit work trousers for women are shaped to fit the female anatomy.

The ergonomic ‘women’s fit’ includes wider hips and a narrower waist for a streetwise, fashionable look with optimal comfort and freedom of movement built-in.

Snickers

Reesink’s range of small tractors got bigger

Intelligent Marking ready to reveal the enhanced Intelligent One

Intelligent Marking is ready to showcase its advanced robotic line marker and PROSTRIPE line of field paint to the sports turf industry on stand CO10 and at the Live Demonstration area.

The Intelligent One (IO) has led the field in accuracy, reliability and ease of use since being released in 2016 and was awarded the SALTEX Innovation Award in 2017 when it was first presented to the UK market. Since then it has seen further advancements to its GPS system and software to maintain its industry leading specification.

The PROSTRIPE field paint has been carefully formulated to match

the requirements of every type of customer, including Premier League venues. It is currently being used to great effect by our American customers, including grass-root clubs, professional sports teams and universities. It comes as a ready-to-spray (RTS) paint in three variations: permanent grass

paint, semi-permanent for artificial grass and easily removeable chalkbased paint. Each variant comes in white, blue, yellow and red as standard, with other bespoke colours on request.

Intelligent Marking

Reesink Turfcare’s range of small tractors got bigger in March with the introduction of the nimble TYM T194.

With the agility of a mower and the additional features and practicality of a small tractor, the T194 adds a completely new dimension to the TYM range.

The T194 joins the popular subcompact TS25 to bring customers who don’t need a larger framed mid-duty model but need the most amount of power, productivity, versatility and efficiency one compact package can offer, more choice.

Designed to appeal to customers looking to more commercial alternative to the ride on lawn mower and those wanting a small multi-purpose product, the T194 takes this to the next level and more.

TYM had simplicity and practicality in mind when designing the T194 and because of this they have equipped it with features which customers are sure to appreciate, such as a powerful dual range HST transmission which includes the fatique busting “auto throttle” system which conveniently links the HST pedal to the engine throttle.

A simple and easy to understand dash panel is fitted to give the operator an overview of all of the tractor’s functions. In addition, TYM has worked on the overall control layout on this new model to ensure the tractor is easy to use with all key controls falling neatly to hand.

The T194 is equipped as standard with a 54-inch mid-mounted deck, with cutting heights from one to four inches. Mowing heights can be adjusted from the operator’s seat

via the onboard height-of-cut lever which is easy and intuitive to set.

In addition, the T194 can also be specified with a front loader, further enhancing the uses for this small but powerful machine.

Reesink Turfare

ISEKI improves popular range with new outfront mower

The New ISEKI SF224 mower offers the most economical way to cut grass commercially with high productivity plus the added benefit of the new 22.5hp engine enabling customers to save on fuel costs and initial purchasing costs of their machinery.

Offering a range of decks to suit the various customer sites and cutting cycles., customers can choose from the tried and tested Wessex, ISEKI and Muthing flail decks, or the new ISEKI outfront rotary deck.

The new ISEKI 60” (1525 mm) outfront rotary deck with three blades ensures that no grass is left uncut even when undertaking tight turns. The cutting height can be adjusted from 25mm to 125mm (1-5”) in 12.5mm (0.5”) increments as required.

Product Manager, Richard Tyrrell commented: “With the new SF224 operators can be more effective and productive with their time, taking all the equipment with them in the large storage bed on the back of the mower, keeping items safe with the operator, eliminating the need to keep going back to the van to empty bins or change tools.”

These high-performance out-front mowers are highly productive and manoeuvrable, designed to facilitate grass cutting in difficult areas. The mowers are equipped with easy to use two-pedal hydrostatic transmission and automatic or selectable 4WD. There is also a lockable differential for use when

conditions demand. To ensure efficient engine cooling the radiator is fitted with an automatic reversing fan so preventing the blockage of the grill.

Operators are well catered for with a spacious, comfortable platform, ergonomic controls and

excellent visibility. The steering column is easily adjusted to suit the operator. Routine maintenance and servicing is easily carried out thanks to excellent access to the engine, radiator and service points.

ISEKI

Telephone 01473 599266 sales@iseki.co.uk www.iseki.co.uk

Earlier this year Trimax Mowing Systems announced the launch of the Snake Series 2.

Developed specifically to meet the requirements of hard-pressed groundsmen, the Snake is the accumulation of over 30 years of Trimax innovation, manufacturing and customer insight.

With its high manoeuvrability and floating deck design, which handles undulating turf without scalping, Trimax Snakes success has been unparalleled. This beautifully engineered solution is revolutionising groundscare maintenance and can now be found in the arsenal of many of the world’s leading golf, sports field, public space and fine turf maintenance providers.

Trimax designs and builds machines which deliver low total cost of ownership and long commercial life.

Greasing, cleaning, servicing, washing and adjusting all eat into active mowing time. Trimax’s mission is to minimise or eliminate down time wherever possible saving you money and keeping your mower doing what it was bought for –cutting grass. In fact, due to its many low maintenance features the average annual upkeep of a Snake is an impressive £245. That’s 50% less than a dedicated self-propelled unit.

With upgraded features such as the LocTEK Roller Retention System, thicker roller tubes, auto belt tensioning and maintenancefree pivot bushes, it’s no wonder Trimax Snake is so popular.

The Trimax Snake S2 is a formidable performer. See firsthand what it can do on your patch of turf.

Trimax

See

Passport365 Gains Global Success

An app to simplify the process of repairing, maintaining and managing multi-sports assets worldwide has had global success after launching in April this year.

Passport365 is a mobile application that has been developed over the last two years, thanks to the drive and determination of Garry Martin, Managing Director of sports facilities maintenance company Replay Maintenance.

The innovative app had early success in the UK, enabling grounds maintenance teams to book in jobs, record their daily activity and upload images from the sites they manage, which can be viewed by asset managers in head offices across the globe in real time.

Tuff Group Holding Pty Ltd heard about the app soon after its launch and after trialling the software was immediately impressed by its potential benefit to his company, which specialises in the design, construction, installation and maintenance of synthetic grass and all forms of sport and recreation surfaces across Australia and New Zealand.

In September, Tuff Group Holding Pty Ltd signed a sixfigure deal for the Australian and New Zealand rights for exclusive use of the app. Garry Martin said: “It’s been a hectic 12 months for Passport365, having launched for global sale in April this year.

“Our early adopters have given us amazing feedback and we’re now supplying the software to clients who are managing everything from single-use sports facilities all the way up to those running hundreds of surfaces across the UK and global companies working with synthetic grass in a number of different settings.

“Having all of the information about any one site, in one place and accessible on the go will help teams manage the assets they install and service and will eliminate the need for paperwork – halving administration time and connecting teams to their customers for the lifetime of the surfaces.

“Passport365 allows everyone working on or managing a site to be able to view, update, share and collate reports from the app either through their phone or on their desktop and will display in real time through the bespoke portal application or on mobile if they are away from their desk.

“Most importantly, app users can check on each of their sites or team members while they’re hundreds of miles away at head office or even in another country.”

The application, which can be customised with individual client branding, boasts a reporting system, making data, statistics and images available at the touch of a button and eliminates the need for storing physical paperwork.

Replay Maintenance

The integration of alternatives into weed control programmes

The concerns around the use of chemical spraying techniques to control weeds in the urban and green space environments have continued to rise over the course of the last few years.

This has especially been the case as litigation is on the rise in relation to the use of glyphosate in the USA.

Councils in the UK are experiencing an increase in freedom of information requests and complaints with regard to how unwanted vegetation is controlled in their public spaces

All this has led to professionals and officers seeking to find alternative methods of weed control that can assist them in reducing or replacing the conventional chemical methods. Increasingly, councils are seeking to adopt a more integrated approach to their weed control programmes that incorporate a host of techniques to maintain their green spaces, streets and highways.

They have found that there are a range of options available to them: manual, mechanical, electrical and thermal (like Foamstream). By most measures, the alternatives available today require councils and green space managers to change the way their spaces are managed.

This includes the need to invest in areas that have previously not required such attention.

Alternative methods can prove more costly, either from a labour, capital outlay, or consumables perspective. This cost is balanced against the need to respond to public demand and demonstrate that alternative methods are being trialled and subsequently implemented to provide the public and clients with the chemical-free weed control that they demand.

Weedingtech has recently launched its most competitive product yet – the Foamstream L12. The L12 was launched this year at SALTEX and was selected as a Top 10 product of the show.

The L12 is a leap forward in the evolution of alternative weed control, providing the maintenance team with a simpler, more efficient and cost-effective method of weed control that can be more easily integrated into land managers’ programmes.

The L12 also boasts a range of low and high-pressure cleaning functionalities suitable for street furniture, paving, chewing gum removal and graffities.

Weedingtech

GreenMech unveils the Evo 165

GreenMech has introduced its much-anticipated revolutionary new woodchipper series, the EVO 165.

Capitalising on GreenMech’s engineering prowess, this new range has been designed in direct response to industry demands to deliver more aggressive torque, more powerful bite and more throughput.

The EVO 165 combines a wealth of new features, together with some of GreenMech’s proven innovations which have seen their chippers become the preferred choice with many industry professionals. Its wide infeed chute, together with twin horizontal rollers and GreenMech’s ‘No-Stress’ control system mean the Evo 165 efficiently grips timber and brash

and controls its lateral movement to provide maximum bite and unparalleled processing power via its new, heavy-duty flywheel and re-flowed exit chute.

Optimised outputs from a diesel or petrol engine option provide usable power that matches budget with operational needs, alongside maximum fuel efficiency and compliance with Stage V Emission requirements. The EVO is the quietest machine GreenMech have produced to date, beneficial for both operators and neighbours alike.

GreenMech have fitted the Evo with a new safety bar system to minimise nuisance tripping while offering a better inflow of material.

GreenMech

Makita launches more 36v cordless professional chainsaws

Makita chainsaws are renowned amongst forestry professionals for power,

Back in February, the new Makita DUC355Z and DUC405Z twin 18V Brushless LXT Chainsaws supply energy to the powerful 36V DC motor drive system inherent in these models. Combining the power and market-leading features that the industry has asked for, these new chainsaws are expected to be well received.

Compact and lightweight, these rear-handled chainsaws, with bar lengths of 35cm and 40cm respectively, can utilise twin Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries that generate a 1100 watt output to run the 3/8th inch chain over the 35cm and

40cm bars at up to 20 metres per second. This exceeds the performance of Makita’s mains powered machines.

The Brushless motor ensures longer runtime, substantially greater power and overall lower maintenance.

Recognised as an industry benchmark these new models feature the main power switch with the Auto power-off function making them ultra-safe in use.

This function automatically turns the machine off, to protect the operator from unintentional start up should the switch trigger not be pulled for a period of a few seconds after the main power switch has been turned off.

Success continues for upgraded Swift

Already renowned for its reliability, simplicity and performance excellence for over 25 years, the upgraded Major Swift mower launched at SALTEX 2018 has seen an extremely successful year.

They are ideal for use on smaller compact tractors thanks in part to the use of Strenx high-yield steel in the construction of these mowers. The machine is hotdipped galvanised for increased lifespan.

The clean, striped cut that the Major Swift delivers is very impressive. The driveline is powered entirely by custom designed gearboxes which eliminates the use of belts.

This ensures consistent cutting regardless of grass height and weather conditions. Grass clippings are chopped finely enough to be quickly absorbed back into the soil.

H & I Kelly Landscape, based in Dorset is just one grounds maintenance firm using a Major Swift to deliver a first class mowing service to its clients.

“Our 2.4m Swift leaves a finish that is equal to any cylinder mower, without leaving windrows,” said Chris. “It’s easy to set the height of cut between jobs, easy to maintain and is a very strong machine.”

Major Equipment

True grit from Wessex

Wessex International chose SALTEX 2019 as the venue for the launch of PolarOne, their new range of professional salt and grit spreaders for winter maintenance.

Built in the UK to take on the harshest winter conditions, the spreader is constructed using stainless steel components and fixings together with powder coating for anti-corrosion longevity. Durability and weight saving are also the thinking behind the self-supporting design of the polypropylene hopper and integral liquid brine tank.

PolarOne can be trailer or vehiclemounted. There are two models, the WS-900 (900L) and WS-1200 (1200L) and each has three options.

The PolarFlo vibration system is a patented auto vibration control to manage consistent material flow, which is totally new and unique to the industry. The spreader is suited to a wide variety of vehicles with its adjustable spinner height coupled with a convenient fold up feature.

Wessex have achieved a unique, low maintenance design with the PolarOne spreader using no engines, belts, chains or grease points. The in-cab digital controller, with GPS connectivity, will adjust material delivery according to your vehicle speeds to maintain a consistent application rate.

Wessex International

STIHL updates the MSA 161 T

STIHL has launched a series of updates to its cordless arborist saw, the MSA 161 T, providing professionals with a more ergonomic and robust tool.

The MSA 161 T is STIHL’s lightweight professional chainsaw that succeeds the MSA 160 T. As well as boasting a 40% higher chain speed (16 m/s), it also delivers a 15% increase in engine performance, making it ideal for removing deadwood, crown maintenance and light reductions. The cordless nature of the tool means that the MSA 161 T is so quiet in operation that any disruption is kept to an absolute minimum.

The improved MSA 161 T is now designed with three different trigger combinations that can be used with the new ‘trigger switch lock out’ feature, including a combination ideally

suited when performing multiple cuts consecutively. These new uses have been created to be convenient to operate while also ensuring user safety.

On the updated version, the ergo lever – located under the palm of the hand – has also been enhanced, meaning it can now be fully pushed in flush against the handle, which prevents impact induced damage as well as improving user comfort. Other changes to the MSA 161 T include a revision to the chainbrake with new metal thread screw joints.

performance, reliability and great value.

Makita

STIHL

Mowers for tough customers

Spearhead

further safeguarding for the gearbox which now comes with a five-year warranty.

One of the most significant changes is to the rotor gearbox. Designed by Spearhead in the UK, major components are increased by up to 30%, with horsepower

Spearhead strengthened the rear axles on the new Multicut series to withstand more challenging terrain, fitting walking axles as standard.

Wheels are offset and pivoted, so they can roll with the contours of the ground. Stress transfer is greatly reduced, ensuring reduced wear and shock loading.

The lift system has also been improved, with the removal of linkages. Each wheel arm now has individual lift, so changing height is faster and easier.

Starcut blades are fitted as standard, delivering more chops per rotation, a faster forward speed and lower fuel consumption. Enhanced baffling ensures an even spread, so mulch disperses evenly and incorporates into the soil faster.

A new name to the market is Razorback – although the company has a strong heritage in maintenance machinery as its managing director Martin Lole also founded Spearhead Machinery.

The Razorback Auto-Level 550 is a next generation reach mower with a smart self-levelling Co-Pilot device designed to offer increased productivity, a superior finish and significant cost savings.

Initially launched with a 1.5m safety rotary head and a 5.5m reach, the Auto-Level 550 can easily tackle two to three-year-old hedge growth, says Razorback.

The rotary safety head option has been fitted with three four-blade rotors on a vertical axis.

A rotary motion design means the blades are in contact with the growth during their entire 360deg cycle, producing a faster and cleaner cut and improved mulching technique.

The rotary action and side deflectors ensure that the debris is efficiently contained by the hood with considerably less material throw onto the road or the tractor cab.

The rotary head is lighter and has a lower power and maintenance requirement than a flail, and comes with hydraulic front hood and rear roller making it easy to adapt to different stages of growth.

The Auto-Level 550 is also available with a 1.2m belt driven flail head.

Automatic levelling Co-Pilot technology ensures that the head and the main frame of the machine remain level at all times, irrespective of the tractor angle in relation to the undulating ground.

As standard, operation is via electronic proportional controls which incorporate a three-axis joystick.

Latest addition to the range is the RD 220 DS heavy duty offset mower, suited to verges, hedges and ditch maintenance, featuring an anti-shock rotor and heavy hammer flails to tackle dense overgrowth and thick hedge vegetation.

An adjustable rear roller and full-length adjustable skid shoes are used to set the cutting height.

Downtime is kept to a minimum by an easy access design allowing rotor bearings to be replaced without the need to remove the entire rotor from the assembly, while a double skin chassis and mechanical shock absorbers boost durability.

McConnel has launched a new 60hp version of its popular 55 Series Power Arm. The new PA5555-60 comes with reach of 5.5m and an additional five horsepower increase over the standard PA5155 and PA5455 which have 5.1m and 5.4m cutting reach respectively and 55hp hydraulic system.

In addition to the step-up in reach and hydraulic horsepower, the three-point

linkage mounted PA5555-60 also gains an integrated oil cooler for increased longevity, redesigned rear guards for easier service access and highvisibility LED lighting.

McConnel ’s parallel-arm and Hy-reach geometry is standard, as are seam welded c-section arms and fully bushed pivot points to reduce stress and ensure greater durability.

Hydraulic Power Slew enables safe transport and provides operators with the flexibility to cut precisely in tight corners.

The new PA5555-60 is available with either cable controls or Motion control - McConnel’s electronic proportion control system.

The company has also introduced new belt-driven grass flailheads for high output verge mowing operators, designed to offer improved longevity and reduced maintenance costs.

Lighter than the existing designs, the new units have an easily-replaced Polyethylene inner liner and a weld-free single piece front hood made from Hardox steel.

Also new is a polyurethanecoated, large diameter 165mm rear roller, lighter and stronger with large rounded end caps to resist debris build up.

End bearing housings are sealed against long grass, wire and debris contamination while other easy maintenance features

include countersunk fasteners to reduce risk of contamination and damage, a wrap around front flap attached via six easy access bolts, Hardox skid kit with weld-on pads, a slim, flat belt cover with recessed bolt head attachment and bearing seal relief to prevent damage from excess greasing.

Available in 1.20m and 1.50m working widths and with a choice of 65hp or 85hp drive

motors, the new heads are to be offered with the existing choice of flail rotors now with Hardox steel flail carriers.

“The new grass flailheads are designed for high output verge mowing specialist, with a number of developments to help reduce maintenance demands”, says Wayne Brown, McConnel Marketing Manager. “The move to a waveform single skin one-piece

main hood, with easily renewable liner, is a key development that will not only reduce service costs but also weight. New bearing seals will help increase component longevity.

“Performance is enhanced too, new wrap around flaps delivering excellent containment of cut material for a better finish and improved debris control.”

Plenty of developments in the hedge and verge mowing area should help hard-pressed operators dealing with thick vegetation from the wet conditions while keeping a keen eye on the budget, reports Jane Carley.

High capacity mowing

has launched a new generation of Multicut rotary mowers, featuring a number of developments made with the help of customer feedback.

rating climbing from 111 to 165hp. Double lip seals and a reinforced seal protector offer

Razorback

Spearhead

McConnell

Upgrades for Ryetec’s SL range of compact side arm flail mower include the option of the Ergo full joystick control, designed to take up less space in a compact tractor cab than the standard cable control levers and offers a degree of control comfort normally associated with larger machines.

The trademark extending counterbalance tank on the SL range makes these machines stable on the most compact tractor whilst retaining the ability to access narrow areas. The counterbalance can now be specified with a hydraulic option to extend it from the tractor seat.

Customers with heavy duty grass cutting operations can also specify the larger SL420 with a choice of power variants: standard head power is 18hp, but 25hp and 40hp versions are available for really tough cutting jobs.

The recent introduction of a boom mower attachment extends the use of the Ventrac 4500 compact tractor - which can tackle inclines of up to 30 degrees - for maintaining hedges, roadside verges, the edges of ponds and riverbanks in safety.

Its reciprocating cutting head, with a reach in excess of 2.74m, features a double action 91.4cm sickle bar with an autolevelling system which keeps the head at the desired angle of cut for consistent operation.

Its out-front mounting system improves visibility and comfort for the operator.

Maintaining verges beside highways is always an issue, usually resulting in lane closures and other safety measures, so time is of the essence. The Ventrac 4500 with its choice of mowing decks is a productive combination allowing large areas to be mown.

Rupert Price, Managing Director of Ventrac’s UK distributor, Price Turfcare says: “We had considerable interest in the boom mower when we demonstrated it at Turf Maintenance Live back in October.

“We were asked by the grounds manager to trim the hedge behind our demonstration plot and it quickly did a very acceptable job.

“It was very wet on the final day, but with a ground pressure of just 6 psi, we left no marks whatsoever.”

Blaney Agri offers a range of hedgecutters from the Compact trimmer to a telescopic Contractor machine with 6.5m reach.

The Blaney Compact hedge cutter is equipped with a cutterbar trimmer, featuring a low friction, self-lubricating design which reduces wear and associated maintenance costs. This also gives enhanced performance even on older tractors with less oil flow.

Blaney Agri developed their Power Shredder technology over 12 years ago which is incorporated in Blaney hedgecutters as well as the Blaney Power Shredder mowers and excavator heads.

The HDX Excavator Cutting Head is the latest innovation in Blaney’s power shredding technology, featuring a high torque piston motor for increased power, especially effective for modern excavators with higher operating pressures.

The HDX head uses a high speed dynamic rotor which works in combination with integrated shark fin blades, resulting in material that is chopped to a finer grade. Blaney recommends this model for hedge cutting and tackling rushes, even on wet ground and areas difficult to access with a tractor.

The 3-in-1 Power Shredder is designed to cut and shred dense vegetation such as gorse, rushes and heather, offering a multiposition action to cut in positions from directly behind to fully offset with the ability to angle up and down.

he 3-in-1 can be used not only for topping and shredding but can also act as a hedgecutter for facing hedges and cutting verges and embankments.

Kuhn’s range of equipment for landscape and roadside maintenance includes four hedge cutter models that are designed to accept a variety of different shredder heads.

The compact, Agri-Longer is the smallest Kuhn hedge and grass cutter, with straight arm and mechanical arm safety. There are two models offering a horizontal reach of 4.30m (4334 ML) and 4.80m (4834 ML), both with a 34hp motor.

Agri-Longer hedge cutters have a 1.2m direct drive flail head with 220-degree flail head rotation. The Agri-Longer can be controlled by remote cable or electronic joystick.

The Poly-Longer 5557 PAL has a parallelogram pivotmounted straight arm and a horizontal reach of 5.00m (or 5.50m with the optional Shift Rail System – SRS), with a 51hp motor.

The Poly-Longer also offers the option of a 1.5m flail head, with 28 T-flails instead of the standard 24. With a semi-leading arm for improved visibility, the Multi-Longer GII 5757 SPAL has a a 5.7m horizontal reach and a 57hp motor.

Heavy duty construction, using very high yield steel for the whole machine is a feature of the Pro-Longer hedge cutter, which also comes with a semi-leading arm and a 5.7m horizontal reach and 80hp motor. Operation on these three larger ranges is through a fourfunction joystick with electric proportional control

Poly-Longer and Multi-Longer now feature hydraulic rollers to provide greater control when operating on verges, ditches and riverbanks, and allow a rapid switch between operational modes.

These two plus the Pro-Longer ranges use the latest Stabi-Link axle mounted frame offering

Blaney Kuhn

Ryetec

increased stability as well as fast mounting / uncoupling to allow tractors to be freed up for other work.

Sales for flail mowers and mulchers continue to grow into the UK through the successful partnership between Teagle Machinery and Italian manufacturer Berti.

UK Sales Manager Jim Squires points out: “The long-standing relationship between the two family businesses at Berti and Teagle means that long after the initial purchase, outstanding after sales service is assured.”

A comprehensive range of verge mower models, aimed at amenity and local authority applications, offer the greatest flexibility. These models can be used in a vertical position for hedges, horizontal for verge or pasture mowing, or any angle in-between for banks and drainage channels.

The Teagle range of verge mowers consists of 31 models with working widths from 1.152.5m, suitable for compact tractors from 25hp to agricultural tractors of 200hp.

Berti recently extended the TA/ PS verge mower range to provide greater machine offset, reducing the proximity of the tractor to steep banks or verges. thereby improving operator safety.

Teagle also distributes a wide range of hydraulic drive mulchers for skid steers and excavators from 1.5 tons to 30 tons. “Where contractors or

councils have capital tied up in plant which is not heavily utilised this is the ideal way to make the most of assets.

“Models are available for all applications, whether simply managing grass or hedges, clearing sites or managing areas where accessibility is limited, for example for railways or waterways,” explains Jim Squires.

The Wessex CHT-120 1.2m hedge cutter is designed for trimming small trees, hedges and verges, and is suitable for compact tractors of 15hp and above. This model features a 1.2m cutter bar, vertical reach of 4.1m and horizontal reach of 2.6m and comes complete with cable controls. It is powered from the tractor’s hydraulics.

Wessex also offers the T-350-S and T-350-SI sickle bar reach mower designed for compact tractors up to 50hp and ideal for working in confined spaces. It has a 4.6m reach and 1.5m cut width and can work on both the left and right-hand side of the tractor; versions are available with cable or joystick controls.

Simon Richard, UK agent for the Reform tractor, Muthing flail and Woods Batwing mower ranges says, due to reduced funding, there has been a radical shift in thinking by a large number of UK local authorities in favour of more versatile equipment.

He says, “Budgets are under pressure and cutting less often in our public areas is the norm.

“The requirement now is for smaller fleets that will be employed year-round on a wide range of tasks, deliver on lifetime cost and also address operator health and safety concerns.”

“The Reform Metrac range offers safe working at angles of up to 45 degrees and when combined with a Muthing flail is proven to deliver a quality finish on longer, wet grass, giving authorities a range of options to deliver the cost savings and quality of finish required.

“The flail is an extremely versatile piece of equipment and ticks a number of municipal boxes. They can provide a rough, fine or smooth cut finish, the latter being particularly suited to golf courses, cricket wickets and football playing surfaces.

“Cut quality has greatly improved and smaller, lightweight versions are now finding employment on fine-turfed areas.”

Fox on the run

Launched at SALTEX, Ryetec’s new Robofox offers heavy duty commercial flail mowing capability in a compact, tracked, self-propelled power unit, with full remote control, able to operate on steep banks up to 55deg.

The Robofox comes as either the Electra, a fully electric battery powered machine able to operate for up to three hours on a single charge, with the possibility to change batteries or recharge in as little as 2 hours, it can also be supplied as a hybrid version with a 28hp petrol engine to drive the flail deck whilst still retaining the electric track drive system of the Electra.

The battery powered Robofox Electra is free of any oil-based systems and can operate in ecologically sensitive areas including waterways without risk of contamination, and thanks to the large rubber tracks, with minimal disturbance on soft ground.

The 150m range remote control system means the machine can be used in situations too dangerous for manned machinery, i.e. close to busy highways or on river banks while the operator keeps a safe distance away in full control. At 560kg and just over 2m long the Robofox can be transported easily between sites on a pick-up or small trailer.

Teagle

Wessex

High performance and engineered for mowing slopes

For 60 years, AS Motor have been working continuously on new technologies and the consistent further development of their extensive range of mowers.

The AS 1040 Yak ride-on flail mower from AS-Motor Germany GmbH & Co. is a major innovation for ride-on mowers and is the latest addition to the AS Motor family which includes both 4WD and 2WD models.

In high grass, flail mowers are particularly impressive due to their high work rates, robustness in the event of unseen foreign objects and offer consistent cutting results.

The AS 1040 YAK 4WD’s newly developed 100cm wide robust flail mowing unit is a superior alternative to conventional rotary mowing units. It offers significantly less risk of damage and also ensures operator safety.

It has balanced weight distribution – 45% on the front axle and 55% on the rear axle which ensures outstanding traction and safe working irrespective of the terrain and is suitable for operating on slopes up to 21°. Also available from PSD Groundscare is the AS 940 Remote Control brushcutter for mowing areas where walking is difficult! Mowing on steep and difficult terrain has always been a challenge for the machine operator and the AS 940 and AS 940 XL ride on brushcutter have been especially developed for this demanding application.

Equipped with 27hp, 4wd, limited-slip differential and cross blade, the AS 940 easily mows dense, high grass and undergrowth on terrain where other mowers would have been forced to give up. With ride-on brushcutters, steep slopes can be mown conveniently and economically.

However, there are always areas where mowing is very unpleasant or unsafe for the operator, including steep terrain, loose substrate, mowing under trees and bushes, along hedges and even areas around wasp nests.

AS Motor have the solution - the AS 940 Remote Control which offers all the benefits of the standard AS 940 but with the option to convert to remote control when required. The main remotecontrolled functions include:

• Professional remote control unit with 300m range

• Adjustment of the cutting height Engine on/off function Mower deck on-off switch

• Steering via remote control

• Maximum incline transverse to the slope in remote control operation 33° (ride-on operation 20°)

• Emergency stop of the machine

Walk-behind and remote control options

For angled verges, such as motorways and reservoir embankments, STM have two main machine configurations to offer:

The pedestrian SCAG SWZ machine from STM Co Ltd is available with a twin rear wheel set-up on the driving wheels, giving increased grip, wider footprint and effectively a lowered centre of gravity.

This is a well-established and popular approach to such conditions, with many units sold per year for use by Councils, estate management providers and hire companies.

SWZ pedestrian mowers are available with 0.9 1.2 and 1.31m rotary cutting decks, and the twin wheel attachment is an optional extra, as is also flail cutting at 0.76, 0.9 and 1.2m widths.

The RoboFlail remote control mower is an alternative approach from STM Co Ltd –especially for steeper verges.

The unit can be operated from as far distant as 300m, and the twin-track configuration allows for very concise turning in between cutting operations.

RoboFlail machines come in 25hp diesel and petrol formats with 1.2m rotary or flail cutting head options.

PSD Groundscare

Grangers no strangers to Toro

Marking a 20-year relationship Grangers Ground Maintenance, based in Hitchin, has taken delivery of two new Toro machines.

Since its inception in 1986 company director Martin Granger has built Grangers Ground Maintenance up from a solo enterprise to a company now employing over 25 people and for most of that time Toro has been aiding its growth.

The company, which provides services to local authorities and associations, has chosen two Toro zero-turn rotary mowers for grounds contracts in the east of England.

Martin picked the Groundsmaster 7210 with durable heavy-duty sevengauge deck construction and the industry’s toughest spindle assembly for guaranteed longevity and the Z Master 7000 for its multi-use productivity.

This joins the Toro STX Stump Grinder already part of Grangers Ground Maintenance’s fleet.

“We chose the Z Master 7000 because it really impressed us at a demonstration,” Martin says. “It’s an incredibly well-built machine with an impressive

ground speed that allows it to cover a lot of area quickly.

“The biggest benefit though is probably its size – as a smaller model it’s able to get into some tighter spaces and manoeuvre within them effectively.

“We’ve been able to use it in places where we’d normally be using a walk behind mower, so it’s saved us time and made the team more productive!

“In fact, the time savings we’ve seen with the new Toro machines is really quite impressive. We’re currently down a member of the team, but getting the same amount of work done, thanks to how productive these machines are.

“When we’re back to full capacity, we’ll be finishing each job well within our timeframe which will be a big bonus for our customers.”

And it’s the perfect combination of the quality of Toro machines and the excellent back up service from distributor Reesink Turfcare that sees this relationship continuing, says Martin.

Reesink Turfcare

Tis the season for… repairs and renewals

The nights are drawing in, the fairy lights are coming out, ‘tis the season for… repairs and renewals.

This is the time when grounds maintenance professionals across the country are bringing in their machines to give them a little TLC so they’re be ready for the new season.

Redstone endeavours to give customers everything they’ll need to maximise the uptime of their machines and that includes a superb range of repair kits, tyre changers, tyre sealant and all the workshop sundries they could need.

First European zeroturn mower built in Oxfordshire

The first zero-turn mower to be manufactured in Europe has been produced at the AriensCo factory in Great Haseley, Oxfordshire.

The decision by the US-owned company to build in Britain follows industry analysis which showed exceptional growth in demand for zero-turn mowers in the UK and Europe in recent years. Until now, zero-turns have

mainly been imported from the US.

A number of CE zero-turn models will be produced for European markets and close collaboration with the US will be maintained to match up to Ariens’ reputation for manufacturing quality, says the company.

Demo proves Toro ‘best for the job’ at Haven Seashore

A demonstration of the Toro ProLine H800 for Haven Seashore Holiday Park was all it took to bring improvement to the grounds of the 57-acre site in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.

As part of a national portfolio of 40 holiday parks and with a rolling investment programme to bring improvements to all, the timing for the ProLine coming on board and resulting in the quality of the grounds having never been better according to site manager John Zoet, is exemplary.

“The company has invested more in Seashore after seeing how well the park has been doing,” says John. “We have a new swimming pool and restaurant among other additions, and now there’s pressure to raise the bar of the park’s grounds in line with the improvements to the park’s facilities. With Toro on board that has been easy to do – the ProLine has definitely improved the grounds here; in fact they’ve never been better.”

As a direct collect rotary mower, the ProLine H800 combines the precision cutting expected of a Toro rotary mower with an added high volume 810 litre hopper allowing customers to cut more and stop less. Resulting in hassle-free grounds maintenance and minimised downtime, the features of the ProLine have certainly impressed at Seashore Holiday Park.

“The ProLine H800 picks up all the cuttings while still leaving a beautiful cut,” John explains. “It’s absolutely the best mower we’ve got, and the quality is incredible. We normally go with another brand for our maintenance equipment, but then we had a demonstration and saw the ProLine in action. It was eye opening to see.

“The way the ProLine H800 works is just perfect for us. After mowing we can easily tip the contents of the hopper into any skip we have on site,” continues John.

Reesink Turfcare

TLW TLB

Ariens

Redstone

Simple, economical mounted sprayer with tank capacities from 100 to 400 litres.

Reesink adds refresher training for 2020

Reesink Turfcare has added 12 practical refresher courses to its machinery and equipment training offering for 2020.

These one day operational and service courses are for those who need the latest knowledge or have previously completed the relevant two-day course, but need to refresh their skills to ensure they remain fully up to date, as well as learning about any new developments that are related to the job they do.

There are 12 refresher courses in total. Six are provided by LANTRA, the leading body for land-based and environmental training, and relate to operational aspects of turfcare machinery maintenance, such as equipment installation training, the safe use of ride on mowers, compact tractor driving, the safe use of pesticides and the sprayers and handheld applicators used in administering these chemicals.

Then, there are another six manufacturer-backed training days from Reesink and Toro in relation to Toro diagnostics and info centre training, plus training on the customer’s choice of any greens, fairway, rotary, cylinder or flail mower or utility vehicle.

Neil Adams, head of turfcare training at Reesink, says: “We’ve introduced these refresher courses based on what our customers are telling us they want – a reminder of the key points and skill set update.

“They are incredibly good value, being done on either a one-to-one basis or as a group if there’s more than one operative requiring the course.

“All the courses are delivered by nationally quality assured trainers and assessors and include a mixture of practical and theory work.”

These new refresher courses join the 11 already offered by Reesink and bring the full range to a total of 23. It is without question says Neil the biggest

from a turfcare machinery and equipment distributor in the country.

Double launch for ISEKI at BTME 2020 with new mower and tractor

ISEKI is excited to be showcasing a new compact tractor alongside their renowned tractor range, plus a new game-changing mower at BTME 2020.

Joining the established and reliable TH range of ISEKI compact tractors is the brand new TH5420, coming complete with a Stage V compliant engine, low emissions and a new range of accessories.

It’s impressive 1,200kg lift capacity with 3 speed hydrostatic transmission allows for ease of control whilst powering implements. High torque and low fuel consumption along with 2-speed rear PTO, 2 mode engagement and autostop function, plus a mid PTO allows for a huge range of turf maintenance equipment to be used on the golf course.

All of this can be done whilst in the ultimate comfort of the factory fitted cab with air conditioning.

For keeping the rough pristine we have the top of the range SF450, a powerful, large capacity centre collect mower which is now also available with a Muthing Flail deck, making it the ultimate combination of quality and reliability.

Its large outfront deck and 1300litre high tip collector allows you tackle the thickest of grass whilst collecting and leaving a pristine finish everytime. The SF450 is able to take on whatever the weather throws at it.

Comes and visit ISEKI on stand 145 to see the new products for yourself.

Reform Metrac H7X delivers safety and performance

Through the Blackburn based Stuart Taylor International dealership, contractors Green Valley Arborists have taken delivery of a Reform Metrac Hydrostatic, 4 wheel drive, 70hp H7X bank tractor, particularly for M6 motorway banking maintenance, between Preston and Carlisle.

Simon Richard UK Agent for the Reform range says: “The four cylinder H7X covers all eventualities for the amenity, utility, contractor and golf sectors.

“It is compact, highly manoeuvrable with four steering modes and comfortable, with excellent visibility.

“A range of optional implements, combined with Metrac’s light footprint and ‘crab-steer’ mode, for working on sloping terrain, give a multitude of work options from the one machine and also address operator health and safety issues.”

selection

Reesink Turfcare

Simon Richard UK

ISEKI

Green-tech supply landscaping materials for new sustainable-living neighbourhood

Eddington is Cambridge’s newest neighbourhood with something for everyone. It is promoted as ‘a whole new area of Cambridge, designed for twenty-first century sustainable living’.

The site is being built in eight phases stretching over 10 years with open public spaces featuring high in the University’s plans.

Six times BALI Grand Award Winner Willerby Landscapes, a leading commercial landscaping company is involved with the development and selected Green-tech as one of their soft landscaping suppliers for this high-profile prestigious project.

Phase one included informal open land in the western edge of the development, representing a major piece of the new parkland. Over 2,400 trees were planted by the time the first phase of the development was completed in 2017. There are over 24 hectares of open space

in Phase 1, and over 65 hectares in the entire development.

Green-tech provided key materials as part of Willerby’s established, valued and trusted supply chain. As well as tree planting materials we have supplied more than 500 tonnes of Green-tree amenity tree soil; a load-bearing, fertile soil which is designed especially for use in urban environments. 100 tonnes of Loksand Rootzone was supplied to reduce compaction and improve stability of sports pitches and grassed areas that will be subject to heavy trafficking.

In excess of 500 Mona irrigation systems with accompanying Aria inlets, Mona Relief Vente and Piazza inlets were supplied to deliver water directly to tree and shrub roots at a consistent level.

In the region of 800kg of bespoke John Chambers grass seed and John Chambers Wildflower Seed was supplied for the green

spaces and to create the stunning displays which will also provide a habitat for wildlife and encourage biodiversity.

Green-tech

Stratford-on-Avon Golf Club gets the Total Solution from Toro

Stratford-On-Avon Golf Club in Warwickshire has chosen Toro for its new irrigation system, adding to its full fleet of Toro machinery and becoming a Total Solutions customer.

Having spent years building up a complete Toro fleet to maintain its 18-hole parkland course, Stratford-On-Avon Golf Club knows the value of investing in the brand, which is why course manager Chris Bromley opted for Toro again when it came to club’s irrigation needs.

“We’ve had Toro Infinity sprinklers installed across the course on the fairways, greens, surrounds, approaches and the larger tees, as well as T5 sprinklers for the smaller tees and then the Lynx control system with weather station to top it off,” says Chris.

“To put it simply, Toro irrigation provides everything we need. The sprinklers are easy to maintain and easy to use, particularly the Infinity sprinklers.

They’re top accessible which makes any maintenance simple, plus changing the arcs, nozzles and trajectory is all quick and easy to do.

“With Lynx, everything you need is all on one screen. With the click of a button you can set up the irrigation for your whole golf course and control watering to the second which has had a big effect on water savings. We also opted for the weather station, which is great, because it allows us to monitor the course more accurately and irrigate precisely.”

With the club’s previous system coming to the end of its life, the new irrigation system was a welcome addition. Since the quick and seamless installation by Full Circle Irrigation completed in May this year, it seems Toro has more than proved itself to be the right system for the club.

“From start to finish it’s been great,” he added. “The installation and service from both Full Circle Irrigation and Reesink have been very good and the course has massively improved.”

Reesink Turfcare