Landscape & Amenity Product Update January 2017

Industry awaits outcome of inquiry into future of parks

HLF’s Head of Landscape and Natural Heritage, Drew Bennellick, has called for collaborative action to deliver new ways of funding and managing public parks to avert a crisis in the sector.

He was giving evidence on behalf of HLF to the Communities and Local Government Select Committee as part of their enquiry into parks.

Representatives from HLF, the National Trust, the Parks Alliance and other bodies from the parks sector joined for the session. The results of the enquiry will be released in early 2017.

The Communities and Local Government Select Committee launched its inquiry into public parks in July 2016. In September, HLF published its second report into parks, State of the UK Public Parks 2016, which showed a growing deficit between the rising use of parks and the declining resources available to manage them.

HLF and Big Lottery Fund have invested over £850million of

National Lottery players’ money into parks since 1996.

The State of the UK Parks 2016 report shows that 57% of people use parks regularly and that use of parks is increasing. This figure is particularly high among young people and ethnic minorities.

Through the Parks for People programme, HLF and Big Lottery Fund have invested over £850million of National Lottery

players’ money into parks since 1996. Of this, 80% has gone to areas outside London. However, HLF is not able to fund all 27,000 parks across the UK. Based on surveys of park managers, independent park trusts, park friends and user groups, and the general public, the findings show that while parks are highly valued by the public and usage is increasing, park maintenance budgets and staffing levels are being cut.

“While new ways of working and generating income are showing potential, more support, shared learning and collaboration are needed to support those that manage parks,” he said.

“Research shows that there is no one model that is good for all parks; a ‘blended finance’ solution which is specific to each park is required to take into account the different facilities/ needs of each park.”

Park sector skills are under threat: there are not enough staff, and remaining staff do not have the correct horticulture skills to protect sufficient park quality. This is particularly crucial as the sector deals with and transitions to the new innovative models and structures they need to adopt in order to survive.

HLF Enquiry 1

Major investment into LAPU Electric horsepower at The Helix

TSP Media’s expansion plans for its industry-leading title Landscape & Amenity Product Update are now in full swing as we enter 2017.

The magazine’s new, quarterly Professional Groundscare supplement is launched in this issue, providing in-depth technical articles, product innovation and industry news for this vibrant sector. The supplement also includes a comprehensive preview for BTME 2017 in Harrogate.

Professional Groundscare sits alongside the established Play & Activity Today quarterly supplement and the regular sector and machinery spotlights provided by respected writer Jane Carley.

The new-look format is complemented by a fresh, creative

new look for the magazine itself, with a redesigned front cover.

David Stiles, Publishing Director for TSP Media, said: “Landscape & Amenity Product Update has been a leading title for 15 years and the investment we are making will cement its position as the must-read title for the industry.”

Alongside the new designs for the magazine, TSP Media has also invested in a dynamic new website that will incorporate both Landscape & Amenity Product Update and pH Professional Horticulture + Landscape Design. The website and magazine will also feature a brand new recruitment section.

For more information visit www.tspmedia.co.uk

Falkirk Community Trust manages some of the most attractive parks in central Scotland, one of which is The Helix with its landmark horse

sculptures, the Kelpies. Fitting ideally with the ethos of an outdoor recreational ecopark, one of the service vehicles chosen by the Falkirk Council

Fleet Services is a Polaris EV, the first true 4 x 4 electric UTV, which was supplied by local authorised Polaris dealer Agricar.

The Polaris EV is used by the park’s cleaners, park attendants and as a general runaround during the summer, becoming an adaptable 4x4 off-roader in the winter months, when it’s working in the woodlands and off the normal paths.

Symbolic of the sustainably enduring qualities the Helix stands for are the statuesque Kelpies, the Andy Scott sculptures of mythical water horses that reflect the heavy horses of industry and economy of the area, pulling wagons, ploughs, barges and coal ships that shaped its structural layout.

Polaris Enquiry 2

It’s a new year and 2017 promises to start with quite a bang.

Along with the expected buzz generated by BTME 2017 in Harrogate on January 17-19, the eagerly anticipated report into the Commons’ inquiry into the future of our parks and green spaces is expected early in the year.

Both these events could go a long way in shaping the rest of 2017 as the industry looks ahead to a post-Brexit future and hopefully a more solid foundation for our parks and green spaces. Above all, they could help generate the sort of wider recognition our industry deserves.

For the team at TSP Media, the start of the year also provides an exciting new challenge. With our agreement with the IOG to publish The Groundsman coming to an end in 2016, we have invested in Landscape & Amenity Product Update.

Along with a new-look for the front cover of the magazine, January also sees the first of our new quarterly Professional Groundscare supplements published. We aim to showcase the UK’s world-leading groundscare industry – from the expertise of those charged with managing venues to the companies providing leading edge products. A Happy New Year to you all and hope to catch up with some of you at BTME 2017.

Paul Groves

Planning guidance for protecting landscapes now available

As part of its efforts to halt the alarming decline of traditional orchards, conservation charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species has launched an online Planning Protection Toolkit.

The new resource is designed to help individuals and communities protect orchards and other wildlife-rich sites when development threatens.

Since the 1950s the UK has lost around 90% of traditionally managed orchards, and nearly half of those left are in a poor condition. The root causes for the decline are neglect, conversion to modern intensive farming methods, cheaper imports from abroad, and development.

PTES Orchard Biodiversity Officer Steve Oram said: “Habitat conservation is one of our top priorities at PTES, and orchards are frequently in the crosshairs of development, so we created the Planning Protection Toolkit to help individuals or communities mount a strong defence.”

The Toolkit is part of a suite of resources developed by PTES to promote good orchard management.

These include:

• a series of practical guides and videos to encourage orchard owners to manage their orchards in a way that is sympathetic to wildlife and that helps improves their condition,

Stewart Garden to present new launches

Stewart Garden is returning to the Garden Press Event in 2017 in London in February.

The company is bringing a wide range of products to the event, including many new launches first seen at Glee 2016. On show on its stand, G104, will be: the Varese

low bowl, a new addition to the popular Varese planter family; the Versailles family, which echoes design themes often seen in formal, structured garden designs and planting arrangements where geometric shapes, symmetrical lines and neatly clipped edges prevail; and the Lead Effect 32cm

covering everything from pruning and grafting fruit trees to grass management;

• FruitFinder, a searchable online database of fruit varieties, including where to buy native or heritage varieties;

• a grants scheme to help individuals or community groups plant new trees on their sites and improve habitat condition; the PTES Traditional Orchard and Fruit Tree Survey apps, which can be downloaded for free from your usual sources;

• an online community orchard map, which people can search for their nearest community orchard.

PTES Enquiry 5

The finalists of the BIGGA Awards 2017 revealed

The BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition returns this month, with more than 5,000 turf managers, greenkeepers, golf club owners and industry decision makers expected to head through the doors of the Harrogate International Centre.

One of the highlights of the exhibition will be the BIGGA Welcome Celebration, where the winners of the prestigious BIGGA Awards will be revealed.

Presented by BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty and featuring entertainment from stand-up comedian Ian Moore, the awards recognise the year’s outstanding greenkeeping performances from association members.

The finalists of the BIGGA Awards 2017 are:

Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year sponsored by GBR Technology:

• Phil Chiverton and the team at The Grove for preparing and maintaining the course during the British Masters supported by Sky Sports from 13-16 October 2016.

• Lee Bishop and the team at Burnham Beeches Golf Club for preparing and maintaining the course during the English Senior Women’s Open Amateur Strokeplay from 14-16 June 2016.

BIGGA Young Greenkeeper of the Year sponsored by Jacobsen:

• Dan Waring, Greenkeeper, Ashbourne Golf Club in Derbyshire

• David Stewart, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Walmley Golf Club in Warwickshire

BIGGA Greenkeeping Achievement of the Year sponsored by Rigby Taylor:

• David Langheim MG and the team at Wimbledon Park Golf Club

• Ben Kebby and the team at Temple Golf Club

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton said: “Greenkeepers are never the first to shout about their own achievements, but when you see the incredible dedication and hard work they put into preparing the nation’s golf courses for the enjoyment of others, perhaps they should be.

“The BIGGA Awards represent my favourite time of the year, when we are able to give something back to those members who epitomise the very best our industry has to offer.”

round planter, the newest launch in Stewart Garden’s Lead Effect range

Stewart Garden Enquiry 6

Major new funding to keep nation active

Sport England is to invest nearly £88 million of National Lottery and Government funding in 26 national governing bodies of sport (NGB) in addition to opening two separate open funding programmes.

The investments and work will come into force in April 2017 and follows detailed discussions with each governing body about what contribution they can make to our new strategy.

Every investment made follows a new customer-led approach,

where the needs and wants of the player, athlete or participant come first.

Around one third of people (14.9 million) are currently in sport’s ‘core market’ – the people who have a strong affinity with sport, including talented athletes trying to reach the top. Sport England wants to continue to support them and help grow the market by reducing drop out.

Key investments include: gymnastics (£8,333,000); hockey (£9,030,000); cycling (£17,310,000); badminton

(£7,250,000); cricket (£7,600,000); para-swimming (£850,000)

Sport England will also invest heavily into governing bodoes and Phil Smith, director of sport, says: “These investments allow governing bodies to reach the customers they know best, and provide them with their regular sport in the way they want it.

“These are investments in clubs, in coaches, in matches and in competitions – the ‘core market’ of sport.”

Sport England Enquiry 8

Luxury patio inspires new build buyers

An exclusive housing development in Halifax, West Yorkshire has used sandstone paving from Natural Paving Products (UK) Ltd to create an attractive additional selling point with a luxurious feel.

Comprising of six luxury fivebedroom detached houses in the prestigious Savile Park area of Halifax, the development is a shining example of state-of-theart modern living. Adding to the generous indoor living space,

each property has a large garden featuring a wrap-around patio and summerhouse.

Installed at the development will be nearly 1,000 square metres of Natural Paving Products Rydal Premiastone Sandstone across the six properties. With a smooth, honed surface and a mix of calm tones, Rydal sits well next to a vast range of colours and materials.

Rydal is also extremely durable with a flexural strength rating

of 20-30 MPa and a high frost resistance of less than five per cent reduction in MPa – making it particularly suitable to cooler climates in the UK. In addition, Rydal has a water absorbency of less than two per cent, meaning it is less susceptible to moss, mould, pesticides or salt.

Natural Paving Products Enquiry 9

BIGGA Enquiry 7

Gardens Trust joins mounting calls for Government to act on parks crisis

The Gardens Trust has launched a report Uncertain Prospects: Public parks in the age of austerity, celebrating a renaissance in public parks which has been achieved since the campaigning efforts of the GHS and Vic Soc. in the early 1990s, but warning of the desperate future many now face as a result of local authority spending cuts.

The GHS was among the first to draw attention to the problems facing historic urban parks in the early 1990s when it produced Public Prospects with the Vic Soc. in 1993.

Long-standing members of the Garden History Society will recall Public Prospects: Urban parks under threat, the report on public parks which we published jointly with the Victorian Society in 1993. It played its part in raising awareness of the historic importance of parks and the threats they were facing.

In July, the House of Commons Communities and Local Government Select Committee announced a new inquiry into the

state of public parks, with terms of reference that comprised:

• The impact of reductions in local authority budgets on parks

• What the administrative status of parks should be in light of declining local authority resources for non-statutory services

• How new and existing parks can best be supported

• What additional or alternative funding is available and what scope is there for local authorities to generate revenue from park users

• What the advantages and disadvantages are of other management models, such as privatisation, outsourcing or mutualisation.

The Gardens Trust submitted a memorandum, prepared by Dr Katy Layton Jones, and has also been asked to appear to give evidence in person, which is a great privilege and opportunity.

“We draw attention to the mountain of evidence of the social, environmental and economic benefits of well-maintained parks; the wonderful effects of the Heritage Lottery Fund and the

renaissance it has overseen; and the dire effects of the cuts made in the name of austerity since 2010,” said a spokesperson.

“Among other points, we express our support for local authorities as the best bodies to own and manage public parks, and recommend that maintenance be put on the same footing as those duties which are statutory.

“We stress the importance of nonregistered locally significant parks as well as the nationally important, and we urge that the government be pressed to reinstate a champion body to succeed CABE Space, thrown on the bonfire of the quangos in 2011. The inquiry runs until December and the Committee’s report is expected around February.”

At the end of November, the new report Uncertain Prospects, warns of the desperate future many now face as a result of local authority spending cuts.

“The effect of these varies widely between authorities – some are predicting an end to parks maintenance within the next couple of years, others are seeking to make parks self-financing, while others are throwing their weight behind the voluntary sector,” added the spokesperson.

“It is a tumultuous time and it seems right that we should issue a campaigning document in defence of these historic landscapes.”

Timberwolf reveals chipper winner

Timberwolf has announced the winner of their 2016 ‘Win a Chipper’ prize draw as Amy Prentice, from Lincolnshire.

The market research campaign reached over 130,000 people from the industry and Amy Prentice was chosen at random to win Timberwolf’s market leading TW 230DHB.

The campaign was launched at the APF 2016 show and Guy Marshlain, Timberwolf Marketing Director said: “Timberwolf constantly collects owner and user feedback through our Dealer Network as well as directly.

“From the results collected, it is clear what users want to see from our machines, this information will

be used by our engineering team in the development of new products”

Bloxham School continues to choose SISIS

Bloxham School, in Oxfordshire, has recently purchased three new SISIS tractor mounted turf maintenance machines - the Powaspred, the Variseeder and the Flexibrush.

With a plethora of synthetic and natural grass sports pitches at Bloxham School, grounds manager Glenn Davies and the rest of the grounds team have their work cut out. It is safe to say that their armoury is full to the brim with a range of market leading turf maintenance equipment – with one particular brand featuring prominently.

After seeing excellent results from his existing SISIS products

- the Auto Rotorake MK5, the Quadraplay, the SSS1000 Sweeper and the SISIS Twinplay implement frame – Glenn decided to increase his fleet of SISIS machinery even further when he purchased the Powaspred, the Variseeder and the Flexibrush.

The SISIS Flexibrush is a tractor mounted brush which is equally effective to disperse top dressing and remove excess material on natural turf and on synthetic surfaces, keep infill mobile to prevent surface compaction.

The SISIS Variseeder is a versatile easy to use tractor mounted seeder with a variable seeding rate ideal for sports field

maintenance. It is renowned for its extremely fast work rate and low maintenance – something which Glenn is particularly impressed with.

Boasting infinitely variable spreading rates, accurate placement and an oscillating base plate to prevent bridging, the SISIS Powaspred is a unique top dresser which spreads a wide range of materials at the desired rate with an even and consistent spread.

SISIS

Enquiry 12

Perennial’s 2017 Special Events programme bolstered by sponsorship

Perennial’s 2017 line up of private garden tours, lectures and special events has been bolstered this month by a new raft of dates and a major headline sponsorship agreement.

Hartley Botanic has agreed a 2017 sponsorship deal to fund the production of marketing materials and help to spread the word about Perennial’s annual programme of events.

From an exclusive tour and dinner at Belmond Le Manoir

aux Quat’Saisons, which features a fabulous Hartley Botanic greenhouse, to an evening with multi-award winning designer Roger Platts in his private garden and nursery, the Perennial Special Events programme has something for everyone who loves gardens and gardening.

Perennial has long been associated with the great country houses and gardens of Great Britain, having been established by a group of philanthropic land owners as a pension scheme for retired

gardeners. Its annual Special Events programme reflects its continued support from garden owners large and small.

Perennial relies on the support of the UK horticulture industry and all those who loves gardens and gardening to continue its work. Perennial offers free and confidential advice, support and financial assistance to all those who work in or are retired from horticulture.

Enquiry 14

Graden Trust Enquiry 13

Timberwolf

Perennial

Housebuilder launches campaign to overcome shortage of landscapers

Housebuilder Barratt Homes is launching a new campaign to encourage more people into the sector.

With landscaping roles particularly hard to fill, Barratt Developments, which encompasses the Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes brands, is launching the Constructing Futures campaign, with an aim to bridge the skills gap and encourage more people to consider working as landscapers within the housebuilding sector.

An estimated 230,000 construction jobs are set to be created throughout the UK in the next five years, but the industry is struggling to keep up with the pace of change, Barratt Developments believes the skills shortage is holding back housebuilders across the country back from meeting the Government’s ambitious housebuilding targets.

As well as the need for young people to consider a career as a landscaper, Barratt Developments believes that existing construction firms in the industry need to consider taking on more business from housebuilders and to reap the benefits of being a subcontractor in the industry.

The call comes after BALI recently launched its GoLandscape initiative aimed at encouraging the next generation of landscapers and also provide an opportunity for career changers to move into the industry.

Barratt Developments is calling on firms to join them at their Constructing Futures events, which will see the housebuilder addressing common concerns about working in the industry and offering firms practical advice on how to get their foot in the door and managing their subcontractor business. Barratt Developments will also be working with schools and colleges to deliver talks and

practical workshops to showcase the career opportunities available in the housebuilding sector.

Steve Mattinson, Construction Director at Barratt Developments Yorkshire East, commented: “It’s fantastic that the Government has ambitious aims to boost housebuilding, but the simple fact is that the UK will never have the number of homes it needs if we don’t have the skilled people required to build them.

“It isn’t just about encouraging more students to train as painters and decorators, even though this is a worthy aim. Children leaving school and college are unaware of the opportunities available to them, but existing construction firms also don’t realise the sheer potential in the housebuilding industry. What we want to say to these firms is that the Government plans to build 25,000 new homes by 2020 and as a result businesses across the county have a unique

John Deere firsts for apprentice training

John Deere’s first female and forestry technicians have been registered in the latest intake for the company’s award winning apprenticeship scheme, managed by training provider ProVQ, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

A total of 34 apprentices have signed up to begin their first year

of training in the work-based Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech advanced apprenticeship programmes, including Zoe Parker of dealer Ben Burgess Coates and Matthew McPherson of John Deere Forestry in Carlisle.

John Deere’s apprenticeship scheme was the first land-based agricultural and turf machinery programme to deliver training in the workplace, at the sponsoring dealership, with assessment and guidance from ProVQ’s team of expert assessors. Additional block release training takes place at the new Apprentice Training Centre.

The three-year Ag and Turf Tech apprenticeships lead to IMI Level 2 and 3 Diplomas in Landbased Engineering.

Each year group trains at the centre for eight weeks a year in four blocks of two weeks, with some days spent at Langar when working with larger machines such as combines and selfpropelled forage harvesters.

The two-year Parts Tech apprenticeship, leading to a Level 3 Diploma in Vehicle Parts Competence, is mostly workbased at the sponsoring dealer,

opportunity to take advantage of this supported growth.

“We know that some firms might have reservations about investing and getting involved, so as part of the Constructing Futures campaign we are aiming to dispel some of these myths and to showcase the fantastic opportunities available to hard working people who want to work in the housebuilding sector.

“In partnership with this, we will also be teaming up with schools and colleges across the UK to educate youngsters on the wealth of career opportunities available within the construction industry, to ensure we have enough skilled people to build the homes of the future.”

Barratt Developments will be launching the Constructing Futures events in 2017.

Barratt Enquiry 17

JANUARY

New Machinery

with four weeks of training taking place at Langar.

Graduating apprentices can then complete three free courses to gain the John Deere Diploma and start their adult training at the John Deere University (JDU), using the knowledge and skills gained from their initial one-, two- or three-year apprenticeship. After additional training and experience, they can ultimately go on to achieve the highest possible LTA4 Master Technician accreditation.

John Deere Enquiry 18

Glyphosate still the weed control key in 2017

Amenity contractors can continue to offer their clients the best possible weed control service with glyphosate in 2017, confident that they are acting responsibly and within the law, says Monsanto.

Since the extension of registration of glyphosate was agreed in the summer, the active ingredient has received significant media attention.

But little has actually changed, explains Monsanto’s Technology Development and Stewardship Manager Manda Sansom.

“Here in the UK, the Plant Protection Products

(Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 have already been rigorously implemented and require pesticide use to be kept ‘as low as reasonably practicable’,” she said.

Also of relevance to the amenity sector, the Regulation also required Member States to ensure glyphosate products do not contain tallowamine surfactants, which will result in the phasing out of all glyphosate products containing tallowamine. However Monsanto amenity Roundup products have been tallowamine-free since 2014.

The glyphosate registration renewal process should be

concluded by the end of the 2017, adds Monsanto Technical Development Manager Barrie Hunt.

Amenity Forum chairman John Moverley suggests that

Don’t slip up

Long Rake Spar are one of the UK’s premium suppliers of White Marine and Pink Rock Salt which is used for De-icing footpaths, drives or communal areas.

White Marine Salt provides a cleaner solution for retail areas, municipal buildings and office car parks as it leaves little or no residue after use, thereby avoiding the product

transferring or migrating into internal areas.

Pink Rock Salt also provides excellent de-icing qualities and offers a more cost efficient alternative whilst being more suited to the domestic market. Both de-icing salts are fully compliant with British Standards BS3247 and are supplied pure, with no added gravel or sand,

contractors should demonstrate to the public and clients their commitment to best practice by being a member of the Amenity Assured Scheme.

Monsanto Enquiry 19

Mid-Size Pro-Pedestrian 48” Hydro Zero-Turn Rotary Mower C/W Agric Twin Wheel Kit (Choice Available) • Year: 2012/2013 From £1,950 11011535 Ransomes Parkway 3 4WD Triple C/W 6 Blade 10” Units, Lights, Beacon, Mirrors • Year: 2016 Hrs: 29 £22,995 11011748 Ransomes Highway 3 4WD Triple C/W 4 Blade 8” Units, Lights, Beacon, Mirrors (Choice Available) • Year: 2015 Hrs:436 From £14,000 14/006/07 Ransomes HR6010 Diesel 4WD Ride-On Triple Deck Rotary Mower (3m), Lights, Beacon, Mirrors • Year: 2014 Hrs: 1096 £11,500 14/015 Ransomes HR300 Diesel 4WD Outfront 60” Rotary Mower, Lights, Beacon, Mirrors • Year: 2014 Hrs: 943 £9,750 15/007/08 Kubota F3090 Diesel 4WD Outfront 60” Rotary Mower • Year: 2015 Hrs: 879 £8,450 14/003 Kubota

thereby ensuring maximum performance at all times. Order your rock salt early to ensure availability and competitive prices. With depots across the country we can ensure the very best prices with prompt deliveries for both marine and rock salt in either loose loads, bulk bags or our premium pre-pack bags.

Long Rake Spar Enquiry 20

Clive Pinnock first in industry to be granted LTA Level 4

Reesink Turfcare’s Clive Pinnock who has been in the industry for over 32 years is the first in the turfcare sector to achieve a level four in the Landbased Technician Accreditation scheme (LTA), one of the highest training accolades there is.

Clive completed all his training through Reesink, which was recognised as an assessment training centre in 2016 by the administrators of the LTA scheme to offer training to level two and three.

Neil Adams, commercial training manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “Clive has been granted LTA four status by the engineering council for his services to the industry over the last 30 years, which is a fine achievement. By gaining this LTA four award Clive is now recognised as both an associate member and a Master Technician by the IAgrE.”

The LTA scheme is supported and developed with the backing of the major manufacturers

of agricultural, horticultural, forestry and groundscare equipment and is administered by IAgrE on behalf of the industry.

It provides a common means of benchmarking, monitoring and assessing, while also providing encouragement and recognition for both employers and technicians and other employees who voluntarily commit to continual professional development in pursuit of technical support excellence. Neil says he hopes this LTA four award “will highlight the importance of loyalty to others not only to the LTA training scheme but to the industry and its organisations as a whole.”

Clive says this training will complement his “lifetime of experience” and he hopes it will benefit those he trains on the cutting technology and after-cut appearance training programme at Reesink: “I wanted to add to my practical experience with the training qualifications I strongly believe in, so when Reesink was made a training centre it made

absolute sense to go through the training pathway here and it’s been a great experience.”

Neil adds: “Clive is an inspiration, he is determined to keep learning and sharing his knowledge with others. His enthusiasm for both the industry and the Toro brand is evident in how he delivers our training. Even now he’s partially retired, he still delivers our training programme with such enthusiasm attendees can’t help but be motivated.”

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 22

Council saves thousands on weed control with RigbyTaylor

Doncaster Borough Council is saving at least £186,000 a year on weed control after switching to the use of Rigby Taylor’s Chikara residual herbicide.

The use of the product, used as a tank mix in conjunction with a glyphosate, is not only producing financial savings on the local council’s treatment of 100 hectares of vegetation management, but it has also eliminated the use of strimmers and their associated health and safety issues of White Finger (HAVs).

Makita UK marks 45 years in power tool market leadership

This year will mark the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the UK sales, training and distribution centre for global power tool manufacturer Makita Corporation.

An unbroken record of annual sales growth confirms that today the Makita brand is market leader in the UK’s competitive professional power tool league. Since 1972 Makita UK has delivered a consistently successful and ever expanding range of power tools for the professional tradesman. Today,

there are more than 600 tools in the Makita UK range and exceptional product innovations such as the valuable AVT –Advanced Vibration Technology

- which dramatically reduces HAV risks for operators.

Makita UK Enquiry 24

Charged with vegetation management over an area of 100 hectares, council operators formerly combined Controlled Droplet Application (CDA) of

glyphosate with the regular use of strimmers, a regime that was costing £225,000 per annum.

The problems identified with these methods involved repeated visits to treat the areas, as well as the maintenance and replacement of strimmers plus the White Finger issues.

Working with Rigby Taylor, the company at the forefront of supplying innovative products for the successful management and maintenance of amenity areas and turf surfaces, the council looked at the alternatives with the objective of eliminating strimmers. It concluded that the use of Chikara as a tank mix with Trustee (a clean label

glyphosate), would provide major cost benefits.

Chikara is a post-emergence herbicide with a high level of residual activity and combined with the clean label glyphosate, weeds that are present at the time of application are killed. Also, the product’s long-term residual activity prevents the germination of seeds from those weeds and others still in the soil.

The result is that the council has slashed its total annual cost of vegetation control to just £39,000 a year.

Rigby Taylor

Enquiry 23

Iseki TG Series on show at LAMMA

Iseki has introduced a new series of TG tractors, ideal for municipal and grounds maintenance applications as well as light agricultural use.

The new range of tractors will be showcased at LAMMA 2017 at the East of England Showground in Peterborough. Iseki mowers and tractors are distributed in the U.K and Europe by Ransomes Jacobsen, the Ipswich-based manufacturer of turf maintenance equipment.

The new TG6 series, which replaces the TG5, features a range of four compact tractors –the TG6370 IQ, TG6400 HST, TG6490 IQ, TG6490 HST, TG6620 HST and TG6670 HST.

The TG6 series is very competitively priced for landscape and professional grounds care contractors as well as greenkeepers and groundsmen.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 25

Keeping safe in extreme conditions

New to Haix range of safety boots, for cold weather the Groundsman XR21. This boot has the same qualities as the Groundsman X21, with the extra addition of a woven fur lining to help keep your feet warm in cold weather.

The inside of the boot still has the Gore-Tex® Performance, 4-layer Gore-Tex® laminate combined with woven fur lining. This makes the boot waterproof and breathable, with optimized climate comfort even under extreme conditions?

Kevlar® puncture resistant sole making this an S3 boot, with antislip rubber/PU sole, a robust street tread. Compliant with EN ISO20345:2011.

The Haix AS System has optimal support with shock absorption within the arch provided by an anatomically formed last.

The Groundsman XR21 boot from Haix, is made to the high standards that is expected from all of Haix footwear, with exceptional customer services.

Iseki Tractors behindthe-scenes at Olympia Horse Show

Ransomes Jacobsen, the European distributors of Iseki tractors and mowers, recently loaned several Iseki tractors to the Olympia Horse show for the second year running. The show was held at The Grand Hall in Hammersmith, London.

The tractors on loan included the new TLE3400 with loader attachment, a TH4335, a TG6370 IQ, and both the TG6490 HST and the TG6490 IQ variants.

The Iseki tractors are used to move all of the equipment, such as the show jumps, in and out of the arena areas. The TLE3400 is Iseki’s new premium economy

tractor. It features a three-speed hydrostatic transmission and an impressive lift capacity of 1000 kg, making it suitable for a range of tasks, including lifting and towing.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

29

Stay warm and dry with Snickers underwear

Snickers Workwear is pioneering the design and development of amazing ‘First Layer’ underwear that will keep your body dry and comfortable throughout your working day.

There’s long and short sleeve T-shirts, Long Johns, Stretch Shorts, Micro Fleece Pullovers and Socks. All the garments work with highly effective fabrics that transport moisture and sweat away from your body to keep you warm and dry all day long.

The Merino Wool underwear is extremely lightweight and soft for natural warmth and comfort in really cold conditions.

Snickers Enquiry 30

Ground Control enjoys awards hat-trick

Ground Control won three Principal BALI National Landscape Awards in the categories Regeneration Scheme, Community and Schools Development and Employer Excellence Award.

The Principal Awards, which are BALI’s highest accolades, are presented to those BALI members whose National Award winning schemes are deemed by the judges, above all entries in the category, to

display exemplary levels of professionalism, workmanship and client satisfaction that bring credit to the landscape industry.

Ground Control’s Managing Director, Marcus Watson, explains the magnitude of the award wins: “Being a Principal Award winner demonstrates how we are ahead of the competition not only in delivering the highest quality service, but also in providing the best possible experience and quality to our customers.”

Ground Control’s Principal Award winning schemes include the £1.3m regeneration of Alexandra Road Park in the London Borough of Camden, and a project at Woodhouse Urban Park in South Kilburn, London, to make the area a better place to live by offering an accessible and welcoming environment for the existing and wider community along with the general public.

Ground Control also achieved the highest recognition for its

Etesia dealers rewarded with trip to Japan

Three lucky Etesia UK dealers recently jetted off to Japan for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, as part of the company’s Attila sales competition.

With a total of twenty places on offer, entry was open to all Etesia outlets across the whole of Europe.

In announcing the UK winners at the Etesia UK ‘Partners in

Excellence’ awards held last month, Etesia’s operations director, Les Malin said: “Competition has been fierce throughout the year, so I am delighted that so many dealers from the UK have responded to the challenge and won a chance to visit Japan. Their achievements reflect the increasing success of

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Play area at Royal Botanic Gardens Kew is slip-free thanks to JB

The world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew at Wakehurst Place has completed its new children’s play area using JB CitiDeck from Marley Eternit.

As part of a move to attract more families to Kew’s country estate in West Sussex, the internationally important botanical research and education institution wanted to open a new children’s playground which was safe for children, robust enough for wear and tear and also had a natural feel to blend in with its woodland surroundings. The design of the play area also meant the material chosen needed to be easy to cut into rounded edges to wrap around the shape of trees and have large, overhang structures.

JB CitiDeck from Marley Eternit, with its characteristic smooth profile, was specified as being ideal for the job and easy to clean, well-suited for areas of heavy usage such as schools and play areas.

Iain Parkinson, conservation and woodlands manager at Kew, says: “As well as meeting the safety requirements it was also very important the wood weathers well and blends into its surroundings and lasts a long time. We opened the play area in May 2016 and the wood turns a lovely yellow colour in the sunshine, blending in with the oak trees.”

Marley Eternit Enquiry

New anti-flyposting litter bin

Leafield EnvironmentaI’s Classic boasts traditional styling and and anti-fly poster dimpled surface makes it ideal for streets, parks, seaside resorts and local attractions.

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Attila ride-on and pedestrian brushcutters in this country.”

UK dealers who joined Etesia’s party were: Bartram Mowers; Ron Smith & Co; and RT Machinery. The itinerary included visits to the Orec and Toyota factories.

UK Enquiry 33

The circular design of the Classic creates a robust structure holding 90 litres of waste. The secure locking lid comes with a stubber plate and double apertures providing easy ‘walk by’ access and is easily lifted off for emptying. It also includes empty ballast cartridge, gold or silver banding and steel liner.

Available in a choice of colours and standard black base made from 100% recycled plastic (subject to availability). Optional extras include; lock, personalised label and fire extinguisher.

Leafield Environmental Enquiry 34

exceptional growth and excellent staff retention by winning the Employer Excellence category.

Ground Control Enquiry

Etesia

Continue to Learn at BTME 2017 launches with largest-ever offering

The largest-ever programme of education at a turf industry event in Europe has been unveiled by BIGGA.

Continue to Learn at BTME 2017 will feature more than 250 hours of education with guest speakers such as Neil Cleverly, Superintendent of the Olympic Golf Course in Rio, and the Course Managers and Superintendents responsible for hosting the last four Ryder Cups.

An integral part of the UK’s largest festival of turf management, Continue to Learn encompasses events for Course Managers, Deputies and all levels of Greenkeepers.

Workshops and sessions also cater for Golf Club Managers, Directors of Golf, Golf Club Owners and Committee Members, ensuring there is an education event for

everyone working within the sports turf industry.

More than 3,000 attendees are expected to descend upon the Harrogate International Centre and The Crown Hotel, Harrogate for the four-day series of events.

Hosted by BBC presenter Naga Munchetty, a highlight of Continue to Learn and BTME will be a talk on The Ryder Cup – Past, Present and Future. The event will feature the Course Managers from Ryder Cup venues Celtic Manor (2010), Medinah (2012), Gleneagles (2014), Hazeltine (2016) and Le Golf National (2018).

BIGGA Head of Member Development Sami Strutt said: “After nine months of detailed planning and consultation with BIGGA members, we are proud to announce the

launch of the hotly-anticipated Continue to Learn at BTME 2017 education programme.

“BIGGA takes great pride in being able to offer our members and other golf industry professionals access to the best educational opportunities possible, and so I am delighted that we are able to offer our best-ever programme of events. There really is something for everybody.”

BIGGA members can once again benefit from seminar prebooking and preferential rates for education events, which can be further reduced by purchasing a Booking Bundle.

New events introduced this year following member feedback include: Dealing with Stress; Project Management; Introduction to Soil Microbiology; PA2 Refresher; Sustainable Grass for Golf; Greens Renovation; Irrigation design. Many other topics are also covered and can be found by accessing the full Continue to Learn brochure. Continue to Learn at BTME 2017 will take place at Harrogate International Centre and The Crown Hotel, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, from Sunday 15 to Wednesday 18 January 2017.

Booking tickets for this year’s event has been made even

easier through BIGGA’s partnership with the ticketing platform Eventbrite. A link to Eventbrite features on every BTME event page on the BTME and BIGGA websites.

Meanwhile, Wrexham Golf Club’s Acting Deputy Head Greenkeeper John Parry won BIGGA’s annual photography competition ahead of the 2017 exhibition

The photograph, taken on his Samsung Galaxy S2 smartphone, shows a silhouetted greenkeeper installing a hole on the club’s 6th green at dawn one morning.

BIGGA Enquiry 36

Dennis and SISIS announce 2017 cricket seminar IOG promotes 2.5 per cent salary increase

Dennis and SISIS will be holding their hugely popular cricket seminar on February 16 at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club.

Groundsmen from all levels of cricket will be able to refresh their education on a variety of topics including spinning pitches, frustrations of a cricket groundsman, spring maintenance on a budget and pre-season in a marquee.

The day will conclude with a Q&A session including five county head groundsmen. The impressive line-up of speakers also includes Chris Wood of the ECB.

Dennis and SISIS have been joined by key partners within the groundscare industry including Boughton Loam, CricketWorld. com, Limagrain, Poweroll,

Stuart Canvas and local dealer Lister Wilder, ensuring that this event is not to be missed for anyone responsible for cricket pitch maintenance.

Attendance to this informative seminar is free and seats are

expected to be filled extremely fast. To register your interest please contact Roger Moore at Dennis & SISIS on 01332 824777 or email Roger on roger.moore@dennisuk.com

Dennis & SISIS Enquiry 37

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is recommending a 2.5 per cent increase in grounds staff’s national minimum salary bands for 2017. This compares to a recommended two per cent increase for greenkeepers, made by the Committee for Golf Club Salaries.

The suggested uplift - in salary bands across all grounds staff categories - reflects the uncertain economic climate and higher than expected levels of inflation, as well as the general level of pay settlements across the markets, says the IOG.

But while the rise is unlikely to ensure that pay growth keeps pace with inflation, it is of the same scale as the majority of recent awards (between median and upper quartile) and strikes the correct balance between affordability and a competitive market rate.

Based on independent industrywide research, the IOG also suggests percentage extensions to each pay band – five per cent for grounds managers, three per cent for head groundsmen and two per cent for all others - to not only allow for additional professional development and career progression, but also to bring parity with equivalent professions.

The IOG call upon employers to ensure they meet their obligations in terms of maintaining a healthy worklife balance and ensure fair payment for overtime worked – by agreement about the balance between overtime pay, time off in lieu or flexible working. This is especially recommended in the current times of financial restraint and economic uncertainty.

IOG Enquiry 38

Two TYM tractors help golf club with winter workload

Childwall Golf Club, in the Gateacre area of Liverpool, has bought two TYM tractors to help maintain the 18-hole, 6607-yard, parkland course.

Known to be one of the very best courses in the area, the two TYM tractors formed part of a onepackage replacement programme alongside Toro.

Delivered in the spring of 2016, now’s the time that head greenkeeper Dave Macavay has been most looking forward to when it comes to putting the new T433 and T503 tractors through their paces.

Dave says: “We have of course been using the tractors since they arrived in April, it has been ‘all hands on deck’ for every item in the package with us

hosting the Four Counties Junior Tournament and wider general course maintenance, but now we’re entering the time of year when the tractors will be working more than the mowers.

“So far we’re really pleased with the performance of the tractors, but in autumn and winter the work gets harder and heavier, so that will be the real test.”

The T433 is a good choice for pulling equipment over a sizeable distance, it’s big on power and performance and is being used primarily by Dave for verti-draining and spiking. The T503 on the other hand is perfect for big projects.

Dave says: ”We have numerous projects on at this time of year. We’ve been building bunkers

and putting drains in and we’ve the front and back buckets on the T503 most of the time as it seems we’re constantly trenching, loading and moving earth around! Both machines are definitely getting well used.”

Dave explains why the club opted for TYM, the first they’ve had: “There were a lot of factors that

led to us choosing TYM and the fact that we’d made the decision to go with Toro in a fleet replacement deal and how well TYM work alongside Toro machinery was instrumental. Together we have what I consider to be an excellent and reliable fleet.”

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 40

TurfBreeze fans create an air of confidence

The installation of eight TurfBreeze fans at Wembley has allowed FA Head of Grounds and Estates, Alan Ferguson, to seize control of the stadium’s micro-climate and reduce the risk of turf disease by almost 58%.

Supplied by Bernhard and Company, the fans form part of a one-million-pound investment program to upgrade pitch support equipment, which also

includes the addition of SGL grow lights, and replacing the existing aeration equipment with a SubAir System, another Bernhard and Company product.

The iconic sporting venue is host to major prestigious international football matches, cup finals, Tottenham Hotspurs’ Champions League matches, rugby and NFL games, not forgetting the concerts. A packed and varied

fixture list, coupled with a closed stadium environment, create tricky conditions for cultivating healthy turf.

Although an attractive architectural feature, the depth of the stadium bowl allows very little air flow at pitch level. This impacts transpiration. The plant can’t breathe effectively. Reduced air flow also increases the risk of heat

stress and prevents the effective evaporation of morning dew. These damp, oxygen deprived conditions create a breeding ground for fungicidal and bacterial infection.

“The air flow at pitch level is poor, before we started using the fans it would be difficult to keep moisture off the sward in the morning, preventing us from cutting,” said Alan. “But now once we’ve cut on a match day we can irrigate to aid ball movement during the game.

“The reduction in dew means the leaf is drier, making it healthier having removed the moisture that acts as a vehicle for the spores. That has lowered the risk of disease by as much as 58%. We’ve seen a reduction in disease occurrence already, which is a real boost for us as we look to produce a stronger plant in a healthier sward.”

Bernhard Enquiry 42

Daniel Madsen wins trip to Wembley with Jacobsen

Turf equipment manufacturer Jacobsen and local dealer Svenningsens co-sponsored the prize that included a trip to work alongside the groundsmen at St George’s Park, England’s national team training facility, and a tour of Wembley Stadium with Head Groundsman Karl Standley.

Daniel is the grounds manager at Telia PARKEN Stadium, the home of F.C. Copenhagen and the Danish national football team. Daniel has played a crucial role in preparing the pitch for every game played at the stadium which includes Champions League fixtures.

New

Foley United has introduced a range of brand new grinders into the UK.

The top of the range 653 fully automatic reel grinder and the 673 bed knife grinder, and the first in the UK, has been installed in The Grove Golf Course in time for the recent British Masters.

The grinders are supplied through the Foley United importer for the UK, ProSport UK.

Managing Director of ProSport Ian Robson explains: “Foley presented their newest table-top spin, relief and “auto-index” 653 AccuMaster and 633 AccuPro reel grinders and the all-new 673 bed knife grinders at the Golf Industry Show in San Antonio this year and they have taken the American golf industry by storm.”

Autism school unveils new MUGA

A new multi-sports pitch for children with autism has gone down a storm at its official opening at an Essex special school.

The MUGA at Doucecroft School in Colchester was opened last month after supporters raised the £60,000 target to install the pitch.

Contractors Sportsafe turned to MTA Leisure for the fencing, who specified steel fencing manufacturer Zaun’s

Zaun Enquiry 41

Daniel Madsen is the latest winner of the Jacobsen New Groundsman of the Year award.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 43

3m-high Duo8 Super Rebound twin horizontal wire panels, which are highly durable, low maintenance, ‘graffiti-proof’ and offer great rebound properties similar to a wall.

The new MUGA was put through its paces at the opening ceremony in a number of football matches between Doucecroft and another SEN partner school nearby.

ICL keep standards high at Leigh Sports Village

Leigh Sports Village is a multi-

use sports, retail, education and housing development in Leigh, Greater Manchester, in the North-West of England. At the centerpiece of the development is a 12,000-capacity stadium which

is home to professional rugby league team Leigh Centurions and Manchester United FC U23’s

“I’ve been using ICL products for a number of years now, all throughout my career from being a contractor and a groundsman to where I am now at Leigh Sports Village,2 he said. “I use the products throughout the whole year from pitch renovation all the way through the playing season, until we scrape the pitch off and renovate it again.”

During the establishment phase he’ll apply Sportsmaster Mini CRF Start 19-19-5 followed by Sierrablen Plus Active 19-5-18 to give a consistent and healthy balanced growth over a three

Dennis G860 is star of The Galaxy

A demonstration of the G860 was quickly organised through CS Trading – the North American distributors for Dennis and SISIS; and one feature of the mower which instantly made an impression on

month period. Two weeks later and Keith will apply SeaMax soluble seaweed.

As part of his turf programme, Keith also relies on Primo Maxx – the market leading plant growth regulator.

“All of the ICL products are good products but when you use them all together as part of a programme they become even better products,” he adds.

“It’s tough to pick the best product out of all of them because they all do a great job for me and that’s why I use them.”

ICL Enquiry 46

Shaun was the interchangeable cassette system.

The Dennis G860 features an interchangeable cassette system, giving options to fit a variety of heads including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers, and slitters as well as 6 or 8 bladed cutter cassettes. The operator can use just the one mower for a number of tasks with a simple oneminute changeover of cassettes.

The G860 certainly ticks the box in terms of Shaun keeping weight off the pitch - lightweight at just 166kg; it is easy to manoeuvre and comfortable to operate. The handlebar console houses the controls - throttle, park brake, switches and cutter clutch and only the forward drive handle needs to be held in by the operator which reduces operator fatigue.

The mower also features a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper which has been designed for a precise height of cut control, giving an excellent finish on every occasion.

Votex B40 Blower clears the copses

Campey Turf Care Systems has provided a remedy for an ongoing leaf and debris problem at Cotswold Hills Golf Club in the shape of the Votex B40 Blower.

Every one of the 18-holes on the Cotswold Hills course has at least two copses of varying sizes running along the fairways or around the greens, making this a very prevalent issue, and one which Wayne is very pleased the Votex B40 has been able to solve.

The power the B40 blower comes from the intuitive design that is applied to all the models within the Votex range. The blowers are designed according to the ‘forced air guidance’ principal and have a double-sided air inlet. This enlarges the air intake without enlarging the turbine.

Though the capacity is high, the weight of the rotating parts is

extremely low. This low weight prevents overcharging of the power train of the tractor when thrown into gear. The blower can fit several PTO speeds and directions.

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 47

GCMA celebrates 25 years of training course

The Golf Club Manager’s Association (GCMA) has celebrated 25 years of running its Introduction to Golf Club Management training course – a period that has seen at least 1,200 delegates attend the weeklong residential training course, which was most recently delivered at Aldwark Manor, near York.

The eighteen delegates attending the 89th instalment of the course came from a wide variety of backgrounds – some were newcomers to the profession of Golf Club Management, others existing managers, secretaries or assistants, who wanted to bring themselves up-to-date with current management practices.

There were also a number of golf industry professionals looking to move into club management, and

several more currently working outside the industry, but looking for a career change.

The course gives a grounding in the fundamentals of Golf Club Management and offers context of how the office works, and its challenges, and is invaluable for understanding the industry, and the complexities, challenges and frustrations of the role. It also highlights the difference between running a golf club compared to other businesses.

The 2017 courses will take place in Harrogate on 15 – 17 January (a 3 day condensed course, aimed primarily at greenkeepers, as part of BTME), Gloucester on 20-24 March, and Warwickshire on 9 –13 October.

Keith Porter - Head Groundsman at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester - has praised ICL for meeting his exceptionally high standards.

Shaun Ilten, Director of Turf & Grounds at the StubHub Center, has had the privilege of seeing some of Britain’s greatest stars grace the turf at the home of Major League Soccer’s LA Galaxy.

“I went to a number of great stadiums across the pond and the one thing that they all had in common was that they were all using Dennis mowers and in particular the Dennis G860,” says Shaun.

Dennis Enquiry 48

Winter maintenance completes the annual cycle for golf courses

Taking advantage of fine spring, summer and autumn weather is helping boost golf course incomes. But it leaves an increasingly short window for greens staff to carry out essential winter work.

Golf courses are living organisms that require both air and sunlight to create food and grow. Therefore dealing with the fallen leaves, as well as the tree, is of vital importance.

Allowing thick piles of leaves to gather on your course will not only prevent sunlight from reaching the surface, it creates a micro-environment which is warm, dark and damp which is conducive to disease occurrence. When the ground is softer, it is important to avoid excess contact with the sward which will only further enhance stress and potential damage.

A Trilo blower, such as the B7, is a lightweight yet effective method which can be used to move the leaves to an area off the course. The risk here is that any wind may blow the leaves back onto the course, which is obviously not ideal. Once cleared to a surrounding area, a heavier vacuum collector such as the Trilo S3 can then be used, without causing damage to the surface.

With any winter maintenance activity, be it feeding and spraying or a mechanical process such as scarifying or aerating, it all must be timely – delivered when the plant needs it and when it will be at its most effective. With that in mind, keeping the ground free draining as much as possible is always going to reap rewards especially given the higher rainfall figures we normally get. A deep aeration programme with your Charterhouse Verti-Drain will keep the entire soil profile best prepared to give the plant the most benefit of any beneficial

breaks in the weather - perhaps to include Linear aeration in the form of the Verti-Quake with use of the Verti-Knife in the top surface.

A light and gentle scarification can also help rid the canopy of organic matter and prevent moisture retention which could in turn lead to the plant being susceptible to pests and disease especially at this time of year.

Though the greens do become more dormant during the winter months, growth will still occur meaning the greens will still require cutting, albeit on a less regular basis. As the plant is less able to counteract wear from players and cultural practices, it is therefore prudent to minimise all other forms of potential stress such as practicing very low cutting heights and over-zealous vertical mowing. Moving over to hand cutting with an INFiNiCut from ATT in the winter is generally less stressful on both the green and the surrounding area and the use of their vibration rollers, SMARTVibe, to smooth the green surface and quicken pace, is a good technique to offer better putting surfaces without inducing stress. Ensuring the green surface is kept hygienic from foreign bodies such as leaves and pine needles is also a definite plus and the employment of decent rotary brushes set non-aggressively is recommended – again a cassette from within the SMART range available for the INFiNiCut.

At a time of year when we know turf disease is common, the aim of any nutritional approach should be to help to minimise its incidence. A programme to maximise plant health going into winter can have a hugely positive effect on reducing the level of turf disease, and can help the turf to emerge stronger and healthier in the spring, encouraging a denser, more vigorous sward going into the new growing season.

The now well established Headland ‘20/20/30’ mix of specific plant hardeners and elicitors has shown excellent results over the last ten years, both in STRI trials and in the field. The tank-mix forms the backbone of many late season disease management programmes. The programme utilises a tank-mix application of three liquid plant health products alongside a liquid fertiliser at rates of 20L/Ha Liquid Turf Hardener, 20L/Ha Turfite and 30L/Ha Seamac ProTurf. Controlling Dew and keeping the sward dry is another key element as some diseases, especially as pathogens such as Microdochium nivale, move in water. Dewcure, was specifically designed for dew suppression and has shown to be effective for up to four weeks in lower temperatures where leaf elongation and cutting has ceased.

With the nesting season well and truly over, and other routine maintenance such as mowing taking place less frequently, the winter months are a good time to complete the maintenance cycle and perform tree work around the course. To get the best from the trees they must be managed effectively.

The resultant woody waste needs disposing of but the Environmental Protection Act, along with the Clean Air Act, considers the burning of waste as inappropriate.

Within the GreenMech chipper range are models of all configurations and sizes that all come with the revolutionary Disc-Blade chipping system -providing up to 150 hours of chipping before the blades require re-sharpening.

Many courses including Sunningdale, Beaconsfield, Stoneleigh Deer Park and Northwood have all benefited from adopting ‘chipping’ as their means of woodland management.

Getting to grips with Stage V engine legislation

It has never been more important for OEMs to select the right engine for their machinery requirements. Daniel Grant, business development manager for Kubota UK engines, outlines these changes and discusses some of the options available.

Kubota Engines’ global R&D infrastructure and field experience in different markets has proved vital in staying ahead of the competition within the European marketplace.

We are leading the way in providing innovative solutions on each side of the Atlantic, allowing both territories to learn from one another to deliver the best possible value and flexibility for our dealers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Although the US EPA Tier system is different to Europe’s Stage system, there are clear synergies. With the regulation criteria becoming more aligned, Kubota’s significant market presence within the US has allowed our European counterparts in the UK, France and Germany to integrate proven Tier 4 solutions into Kubota’s Stage V preparations. Therefore, this global presence and our consistent forward thinking has meant that Kubota’s European Engine Division has made significant strides in preparation for the legislation changes coming in 2019.

As a manufacturer, Kubota is committed to investing in technological advances to ensure equipment is powered by the most efficient and cost effective diesel and spark ignited engines that will exceed upcoming emission regulations, whilst also providing a host of viable alternative fuel options. These innovations have the potential to deliver significant cost base benefits, due to the expected impact on exhaust gas after-treatment required for diesel after 2019 within the lower power categories.

On the diesel side, one key development is the Kubota V3800-TIEF4B industrial diesel engine, which exceeds compliance for EU Stage 4 emissions regulations whilst delivering a power output of 86.4 kW at 2,600 r/min. Kubota’s early commitment to diesel particular filters (DPFs) has allowed us to have field experience and refine the design and capability of the DPFs that have been deployed within the new V3800-TIEF4B, alongside the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to reduce NOx and diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), all sitting within the integrated emissions technology.

One new product line from Kubota is our new Diesel Power Pack options, such as the V3307-CR-TE4B-EU-Z5, specifically developed and designed to provide OEMs

with an additional solution for 2019’s EU Stage V emissions regulations. With a power range up to 55kW, the models feature common rail fuel technology and state-of-the-art exhaust gas after-treatment.

Alternative fuel engines, such as Kubota’s WG Series WG2503G/L/N-E3 offer gasoline, natural gas, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and CNG (compressed natural gas) fuel type alternatives, all of which could be installed and considered as a potentially differing solution to conventional diesel fuelled engine options.

This is part of Kubota’s ‘One Source Multiple Solution’ approach towards 2019 which will inevitably challenge the diesel engine industry as a whole, meaning end users and OEMs will start to evaluate alternative fuel types as part of their decision making process.

Training facilities upgraded with help from Topsport

Sports surface specialists, inscapes, turn to topsport to supply materials for state of the art drainage solution.

In order to kick off its 2016 promotion challenge Plymouth Argyle Football Club identified its training facilities as a key area that could be improved.

Poor drainage had limited the use of Plymouth’s Harper’s Park training ground in the past, especially during the winter months, so the club was in need of a swift solution to provide year-round playability.

Having worked on the installation of Argyle’s new pitch at the club’s Home Park ground

in 2010, commercial landscapers and sports surface specialist, Inscapes, were asked to address the drainage issues affecting two training pitches at Plymouth’s Harper’s Park training facility, located next to the ground.

After assessing the site, the decision was taken to lay additional drainage channels across the pitch to remove standing water from the playing surface as quickly as possible and limit the potential for soil saturation, ensuring maximum playing time during periods of wet weather. However, sourcing the volume of specialist sport sand and gravel required by Inscapes to deliver the desired levels of drainage was a key

logistical hurdle that needed to be overcome, given the club’s farsouthern location and the region’s limited geological assets.

Having previously worked together on a number of successful projects, Inscapes turned to Tarmac’s Topsport team to help inject a new lease of life into Plymouth Argyle’s training facility.

“Time was of the essence for the Plymouth Argyle project as the work had to be undertaken in the off-season, and any completed installation would need to be left for a minimum of four weeks to bed in and allow for adequate grass growth. It was therefore crucial that the material could be sourced in the South West to keep timescales as short as possible,” commented Joe Evans of Tarmac’s Topsport team.

“The geological make-up of Plymouth and the surrounding area meant that the raw materials Inscapes required to create the drainage channels were not readily available locally. With Topsport having supplied specialist materials to

a number of training pitches for Premier and Football League clubs previously, we knew how important it was to get the right aggregates in place from the beginning.

“Fortunately we were able to source 750 tonnes of specialist medium-fine sand from Tarmac’s Avonmouth Wharf, after initially supplying various samples to Inscapes to determine the right product for the installation. We also worked with the contractor to find a further 750 tonnes of suitable gravel to complete the drainage system.”

Once the material supply had been confi rmed, the Topsport team were then able to work closely with Inscapes to facilitate the creation of the new drainage systems across the two training pitches.

Ross Keeble, Inscape’s Foreman at Plymouth Argyle commented: “Tarmac’s Topsport team have been brilliant, I can’t fault them. We gave them a call to get the sand and stone ordered, they gave us a delivery date and they got it spot on.”

Bannerman aerator is a four-in-one solution

Bannerman’s BA-4 Air-Ject Aerator is a commercial grade self-propelled, walk behind machine that can be fitted with a total of three different tine configurations - core, fracture and slitter - plus an over seeding spiker tine reel.

This makes BA-4 a truly “Four in One” aerator and powered by a Honda GX120 engine, fitted to a 6:1 reduction gear box, the unit boasts a powerful and reliable drive system.

The BA-4, supplied by UK importer Blade Machinery Ltd, is a compact unit that allows easy and safe operation in confined areas, with less operator fatigue.

The tine reel assembly allows a smoother operation and more holes / slits per square metre. Ballast weights maintain maximum pressure for tine penetration and operator balance.

Blade Machinery Enquiry 59

Groundsman praises SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid

Derby County head groundsman Nathan Scarff has praised the SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 tractor mounted aerator for all-year-round use to keep the playing surface at the iPro Stadium in peak condition.

The Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 from SISIS not only aerates with a vertical action, but also injects air into the root zone at a fast working rate, creating thousands of fissures. The cam trigger mechanism ensures that the air is always expelled at the bottom of the tine penetration, enabling treatment to be targeted precisely and consistently.

The 10mm diameter ‘tipped’ tines are spaced at 75mm (3ins) with depth of penetration, infinitely variable, to a maximum

of 127mm (5ins). These air injection tines are specially designed to use the maximum air available from the compressor and produces clean, fresh, air at a constant rate of 88 litres per minute, while surface disturbance is kept to a minimum.

“We use the Javelin Aer-Aid every time we get a decent break in between games and that is all about trying to keep the pitch regulated in terms of how hard and how soft it is,” explains Nathan. “We can aerate the pitch in under three hours and it can be played on immediately afterwards.

“The option of the air injection has proved to be invaluable to us. In a stadium environment we don’t get a lot of natural air movement or sunlight so

the water movement isn’t particularly good. Being able to inject the air helps prevent any problems like black layer and it also great for helping to reduce the compaction from using the heavier machinery on the pitch.

Alternative tines for other operations, such as hollow coring before top dressing, are available to make this SISIS a truly versatile aerator.

SISIS Enquiry 60

Spring into summer with Classen

The combination of three Classen machines, the Aerator, Turf Rake and Overseeder are precisely what turf professionals need as the late spring grass growth puts on a spurt towards summer.

Aeration is needed to improve the air exchange between the soil and the atmosphere, to help relieve compaction, reduce water run-off and puddling.

The Classen RA 21 Aerator offers a choice of solid or hollow tines so the groundsman can choose according to the work to be done. The core tines reciprocate at 450

revolutions per minute allowing the operator to cover 26,000 square feet in an hour. Selfpropelled and quality engineered, the aerator is designed to punch cleaner holes in tough soil without additional weights. Each of this trio of machines, which Schiller Grounds Care term the Classen Spring Turfcare Collection, comes with a twoyear warranty and provide turf professionals, contractors and hire companies with a year-round grass maintenance system.

Schiller Grounds Care Enquiry 61

Air2G2 wins prestigious golf innovation award

Campey Turf Care Systems and GT Air Injection Air2G2 have jointly won the prestigious HSBC Golf Business Forum Innovation Award for the revolutionary Air2G2.

The category saw applications from all over the world before going to a judging panel, with the award giving the industry the opportunity to recognise the great talent that’s driving the game forward.

Through its three probes injecting compressed air to either 6”, 7”,

9” or 12” (depending on probe fitted) deep from a lightweight unit, the Air2G2 has made itself an invaluable tool to every greenkeeper and groundsman that has used it.

Play can resume instantly on any area it works on because there is no surface disruption, whilst it’s also the perfect tool for use on areas that are too saturated for a tractor to operate on.

Richard Campey said: “It is a massive honour for ourselves and everyone at Air2G2 to receive

this award from the Golf Business Forum. Just to be in the top five is testament to the product and all it has done for those that have used it so far, so to actually take the top prize is fantastic.”

The Golf Business Forum offers keynote speakers, expert panels, networking and industry recognition with the aim of connecting the global golf community.

Campey Turf Care Enquiry 62

Toro keeps London Stadium in top condition

London Stadium 185, the company in charge of managing the Stadium at London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, has welcomed a Toro ProCore 648 aerator and three other machines to its fleet, as the much-loved venue permanently reopens.

A subsidiary of VINCI Stadium, the operating company saw the new Toros delivered in early

June this year; around the same time London Stadium officially re-opened.

Formerly known as the Olympic Stadium, the venue was temporarily open to the public during the summer of 2015, hosting major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup and the Diamond League Meeting. This year, the arena has

been transformed into a multi-use venue, becoming the new home of West Ham United FC and the National Competition Centre for athletics in the UK.

Greg Bolton, head groundsman at London Stadium 185, whose groundsman career has seen him work at Fulham Football Club’s Craven Cottage and Reading Football Club’s

Madejski Stadium, said: “The ProCore is great and a machine that I’ve actually used before in previous roles.

“I’ve used the ProCore at the last three venues I’ve worked at. It’s a simple-to-use machine that’s equally effective for spot areas and the entire pitch.”

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 63

Wiedenmann UK launches Terra Spike SL

The 11th aerator in the Terra Spike range arrives in the UK this month after being launched in the US.

Wiedenmann UK’s new Terra Spike SL can tine down to 210 mm on fine turf making it more than twice the match for some shallow aerators.

The SL introduces a built-in tine return system and additional shock absorbing facility never seen before.

The engineering development helps keep the SL’s weight to just 470 kg even though the aerator is a handsome 1.4 m wide.

Suited to compact tractors from 20 hp with 600 kg lift capacity, it has a very light footprint.

In keeping with other Terra Spikes, it features much of the patented class-leading technology synonymous with the Wiedenmann brand: VibraStop which prevents vibration travelling to the operator or the machine and tractor; QuickSet which enables tool free adjustment of both tine depth and heave with settings visible on a large scale; QuickChange which allows tine heads to be exchanged with only one screw and TwinDrive where the crankshaft is powered from two symmetrical sides and impact is absorbed by the special v-ribbed belt on either side.

Exceptionally quiet and smooth, fewer moving parts mean less wear, less maintenance and fewer greasing points.

Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 66

Promote growth with Plugr

The colder months can have a significant impact on turf and, if not looked after properly, grounds could struggle now spring is here.

Plugr aerators from Billy Goat offer a solution to this that can improve drainage and promote new growth by making holes throughout the turf that allow air circulation through the roots. The results being healthy grass growth and stronger turf.

The Plugr aerator range consists of four products. These are the PL1800 (with either a 205cc Briggs

& Stratton engine, or an 118cc Honda engine), or the PL2500 (with a 163cc Honda engine, or a 196cc Honda/Hydro Drive).

The PL1800 has an 18” working width, along with four tines and weighs just 109kg. It is ideal for smaller properties or rental scenarios, and places cores 2.75” deep and aerates 22,000 square feet per hour. It has an easy folding handle that allows for compact use, transportation and storage.

The PL2500 is perhaps suited for more intense usage. It has

a 25” working width and eight reciprocating cam driven tines that punch to core depths of 2.75”. Billy Goat products are exclusively available in the UK through Henton & Chattell dealers nationwide.

Henton + Chattell Enquiry 68

Basic tips to effective aeration from Charterhouse

It is well documented that aeration is a key task for any turf manager.

It can take many different forms - from using a VertiDrain; linear aerating with a Verti-Quake or indeed VertiCoring – all available from Charterhouse Turf Machinery.

However, all have the same aim to allow air movement through the surface providing a healthy environment for the grass plant. Although it’s been said on many occasions, when it comes to effective aeration, timing is the key.

During the winter months, deep aeration to say 12 or 14” during any relatively dry periods will help to keep surfaces playable; draining and free from puddling. Thought should also be given to the top profile which may have become saturated and requires helps to rid itself of excess water. As soon as you can get

a machine onto the surface, without causing issues, aeration should be conducted.

Heading into spring, lighter VertiDrains such as the 1513 or 1517 from Charterhouse, can be mounted behind a small compact tractor and deliver the results required to keep the surface free draining. It can also help to link up with the deeper aeration work done over the winter. Any holes will allow the plant to take advantage of available oxygen and nutrition which will help to deliver an improvement in overall sward vigour.

If a wet spring is on the cards, the linear aeration provided by the Redexim Verti-Quake is a good alternative. The rotary motion, combined with the forward speed sets up a wave action which helps decompaction to take place. However, it should be used with caution in dry conditions as slit lines can shrink and open up if the ground is too dry. Again, timing is essential.

For the drier conditions we’d expect as we head into summer, needle tines are the most effective way to keep the surface open, helping to maximise the effects of irrigation and nutritional programmes. Again, aerating at the right time will reduce costs associated with irrigation and feeding, maximising the utilisation of any rainfall, while creating minimal disruption to the surface.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 67

Terrain Aeration on course for success

Terrain Aeration has been receiving a marked increase in the number of golf courses requesting their specialist soil compaction and aeration service.

Normal aeration on fairways such as Verti-draining is a fast, short term solution but for many courses recent weather patterns have resulted in the need for much deeper aeration than the usual six to eight inches vertical draining.

Such has been the experience at over fifty golf clubs both private and municipal.

Terrain Aeration offers a deep drill service. Used principally on golf greens and tees, the Terralift machinery drills 16mm diameter, 250mm deep holes

on a grid pattern, removing the spoil and facilitating a degree of soil replacement.

The deep drill treatment improves gaseous exchange and drainage in the top 250mm of the soil beneath the turf, improving turf rooting firmness, rooting depth and durability.

The Terralift machinery used by Terrain Aeration is purposebuilt to ensure excellent results without surface disruption

or any loss of availability for play. This specialist treatment improves drainage, cures anaerobic conditions and results in improved firmness and rapid drying, ensuring the surface is always available for use.

These improvements typically last between ten and 12 years, making the treatment costeffective, longlasting and completely mess-free.

Terrain Aeration Enquiry 69

Strain relief kit converts Terra Rake to synthetic use

Wiedenmann’s Terra Rake, a hugely popular scarifier and thatch remover on natural grass, can now be easily deployed on artificial surfaces. An optional ‘strain relief’ kit is available and can be retro-fitted.

Mountable to the top of the frame, it features a spring assister which provides a parallel load path to take tension away from the four rows of tines. With seven separate settings it can readily be amended to suit.

The 5 mm diameter spring tines on the Terra Rake are made of tungsten steel are very fine and agile. When they move at speed over natural turf they tease out thatch incredibly well.

If a synthetic pitch get lots of play and is infrequently maintained the rubber crumb binds together and becomes compacted. This leads to reduced shock absorption and over time the drainage can become affected and the carpet might need to be replaced sooner.

Koppl Hydro Compact Easy set to revolutionise turf care

PSD Groundscare, the leading distributor of professional machinery, have announced the launch of a new range of interchangeable products which are designed to revolutionise groundscare by minimising the need for several different machines, thus reducing storage space and costs.

The Koppl Hydro Compact Easy, with its space saving design, is a flexible and convenient unit for all professional needs and multiseason use. It also boasts a range of attachments specifically for synthetic groundscare, including various sweepers and brushes.

Unlike other synthetic turf care products, the Compact Easy’s

clever design means instead of having to purchase a number of machines for different tasks, you simply buy the attachments to fi t the base unit, avoiding the expense of different standalone units.

Chris Gibson, managing director of PSD Groundscare said: “We’re excited to be able to offer such a unique product to the professional groundscare market. The Koppl range is renowned for its high performance and outstanding quality and our customers are overwhelmed at what the range can achieve.”

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 74

The Terra Rake’s spring tines are designed to loosen and tease the infill particles or rubber crumb apart. This instantly improves the shock

TigerTurf completes the first RFU Rugby Turf project

TigerTurf has handed over the first Rugby Football Union (RFU) Rugby Turf project at Hornets RFC in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset – one of a planned 100 3G rugby pitches that will be built as part of its Rugby World Cup legacy plans and revised National Facilities Strategy.

Having been awarded two of the five pilot Rugby Turf projects, TigerTurf and Framework partner, McArdle Sport Tec,

have undertaken an 8140m2 installation of TigerTurf’s new Rugby 360 surface.

The RFU will manage the facility at Hornets RFC, providing access to a first-class 3G pitch for training and competitive fixtures not only for the host club, but also for other rugby and sports clubs from across the county.

TigerTurf Enquiry 75

How to make an artificial turf pitch go further

It is a common misunderstanding that a synthetic pitch has no maintenance requirements.

Whilst the maintenance does not need to be complex or costly it does need to be consistent and effective whether the surface be sand dressed, sand filled or 3G.

The footfall on a synthetic surface will compact the infill and flatten the fibres; the surface will become hard under foot, drainage ability will be reduced and if the fibres are no longer supported they will lay horizontal.

If left like that, and play continues, the most vulnerable part of the fibre is exposed to loading and UV - causing premature wear and breakage to reduce the overall expected life.

“When calculating a maintenance regime it is important to tie it to the usage - the idea of brushing every ten hours refers to the entire pitch area being used in the normal fashion by, say, 22 players,” explains Synthetic Specialist for Charterhouse Turf Machinery, Curtis Allen. “Though this may not always be the case as the surface can sometimes accommodate up to three games of 18 players each which increases the total pairs of feet to 54 (plus staff, referees and parents).”

After 10 years of testing and development Redexim Charterhouse now offer a broad range of machinery to clean, brush, de-compact, remove and install synthetic turf. The portfolio now spans 35 products with the majority of new product developments coming from industry advancements and customer demands. Machines such as the Verti-Top are setting industry standards by ensuring surfaces are safe while ensuring longevity expectations are met.

The maintenance of any synthetic turf facility is crucial but developments in the industry now mean there are tools and support available to support those tasked with the maintenance of a surface; whether it is contacting the Charterhouse office for support and information or trialling machines such as the RTC or the Verti-Top.

Charterhouse supports a number of specialist courses designed to empower and engage with those maintaining synthetic turf - this is always a good way to develop skill sets and ensure the correct maintenance regime is taking place.

absorption values and helps returns it back to the required standard.

Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 73

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 76

Replay ‘rejuvenate’ their website

Replay Maintenance has recently launched a newly revamped website.

The new site has been designed to offer a more user-friendly experience and provide a comprehensive guide to the many products and services Replay offer.

It has a clean uncluttered design, improved functionality and enhanced content covering the maintenance services Replay provide for synthetic sports surfaces and athletics tracks, as well as covering topics such as pitch surveys, industry guidelines and details of Replay’s industry partnerships.

Another new tool launched on the website, and exclusive to Replay, is a maintenance calculator to provide a guide to the ‘Actual Hours’ of play taking place at a facility. When a carpet is installed, it will come with a guide to its lifespan based upon the number of hours of

play taking place. However, one hour of play doesn’t necessarily always mean one hour; depending on the number of players and the nature of the sport being played upon the surface.

The new calculator, based in the website’s ‘Green Room’, can provide a more accurate guide as to the amount of play taking place which should also determine the amount, and type, of maintenance being conducted. Existing customers of Replay also have the option to store their ‘Actual Hours’ calculation on the Replay Reportal system.

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 80

All-in-one solution from SCH

SCH (Supplies) Ltd have developed an all-in-one, economical solution to artificial surface maintenance needs.

Their ASM Package comprises of a new or pre owned towing tractor (dependant on budget), with a choice of attachments such as a grooming rake, a de-

compaction unit, drag mats, brushes, a chemical applicator and more.

The company is currently developing a variety of new products for the synthetic surface market.

SCH (Supplies) Ltd Enquiry 82

McArdle Sport Tec selected for rugby pilot scheme

McArdle Sport Tec has been selected as contractor installing the new “Rugby 360” thirdgeneration artificial turf.

Several rugby clubs are included in the pilot scheme which aims to continue the RFU’s Rugby World Cup 2015 legacy of delivering over £50m investment over four years into the development of one hundred artificial 3G rugby

pitches across England – 60 on rugby club sites and 40 on community sites.

The scheme has been devised by the RFU to offer superior all-weather playing facilities across the country, with the RFU pledging to invest in 100 floodlit artificial 3G rugby pitches for the grassroots game across the country over a four-year period.

The major driver for installing artificial pitches is to sustain and grow participation in the game whilst overcoming increasing pressure on natural turf pitches, the impact of wetter winters resulting in postponed matches, changing player expectations and competition from other sports investing in artificial pitches.

McArdle

Enquiry 79

Technical Surfaces restores St. George’s Park pitch

Technical Surfaces has completed a large-scale renovation of the ‘David Beckham’ community pitch at St. George’s Park, and in the process has enabled the surface to qualify for The FA’s 3G Football Turf Pitch Register.

The pitch, one of only two outdoor artificial surfaces on site, is now around 14 years old and plays host to a wide variety of matches and training sessions.

The pitch was being maintained regularly by site staff, and

although it suffered no issues with drainage, the rubber crumb had become heavily contaminated throughout, clogged with soil pollutants, dust and fibre fragments.

Rubber levels were also very inconsistent across the surface, and infill was beginning to break down, trapping and flattening the turf fibres. This compacted and contaminated rubber infill created a playing surface that was hard underfoot, with rubber dust particles leaving unsightly black marks on players and footballs.

The centre’s first thought was to replace the surface. However, following discussions with Technical Surfaces, they

opted instead for our patented Rejeneration procedure – the extraction and replacement of the rubber crumb infill being the best way to deliver a consistent playing surface, whilst providing value for money and extending the life of the existing surface.

Work began with the extraction of around 200 tonnes of infill, replacing it with fresh, clean rubber to help restore and improve playing characteristics such as traction, ball roll, rebound and force reduction. A defining feature of 3G pitches is their infill levels, typically 4060mm, compared with 20-25mm in sand-filled surfaces.

The extracted rubber was not landfilled, but rather was re-used

STM and partners deliver 3G pitch

Synthetic Turf Management (STM) had a very busy summer with Abraham Guest Academy among those to benefit from a brand new 3G pitch

This school based in Wigan needed a full resurfacing of their previous 3G pitch. Over time the surface had reached the end of its lifespan and the school decided to call in STM for a full replacement.

STM worked with British manufacturers and fellow SAPCA members TigerTurf to deliver a high performing sports facility that would benefit all pupils within the school.

The new 3G surface would be predominantly used for football as this is a hugely popular sport within the school however touch rugby markings were also included to optimise the space taken up by the surface and offer a wider variety of sports available.

This MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) was installed with Total Turf 40 XQ meeting both FIFA and FIH standards and a perfect turf type for the needs of Abraham Guest’s (8 hours’ usage a day). This is because it is guaranteed for a huge 20,000 playing hours.

The 6404 square metres of this product was part filled with rubber and sand to deliver a durable surface that would withstand the tackles and skills practised in these sports.

on site to reinforce running paths and routes across the park.

The Rejeneration created a refreshed, softer surface with improved playing characteristics. The softer playing surface was evidenced by improved readings in force reduction and vertical deformation, as well as a reduction in vertical ball rebound.

Traction was also reduced, owing to the looser state of the new rubber infill. The carpet fibres that had previously been trapped beneath the infill were now recovered, and the test results confirmed an increased ‘free pile’ height, allowing for reduced ball roll.

Technical Surfaces Enquiry 81

Now the pupils can benefit from a 3G pitch to optimise their performance in a variety of sports. The pitch will also be available for the local community too.

This is a facility that will be available for so many people, hoping to encourage them to enjoy sports and take up something they perhaps haven’t tried before.

STM Enquiry 83

QUICK-CLEAN

Specialists in installing artificial turf and sports surfaces,

Sherriff Amenity feature new products and free education

Not only will Sherriff Amenity be launching two new innovative products on stand B34 at BTME 2017 but they will also be offering 12 months free education and be showcasing a live working demonstration.

BTME 2017 will see the launch of two new products in the Evolution fertiliser range – Xtra and Controlled. Evolution Xtra is a slow-release outfield fertiliser which provides up to three months release and helps avoid volatilisation of Nitrogen.

Evolution Controlled is a premium coated fertiliser with a range of granulation sizes and analysis to suit a wide range of application requirements. Also featuring on the stand will be the latest offering of SeaVolution - a

cold processed seaweed and biostimulant range.

Sherriff Amenity has always been a big advocate of education within the turf and amenity industry and many have benefited from being a part of the Sherriff Academy. This online platform is ideal for learning more about the amenity business as users can participate in courses to enhance knowledge on a wide range of topics such as disease and the correct products to use.

Visitors to Stand B34 will also have the opportunity of seeing a live working demonstration of the Bayer easyFlow - the first closed transfer system for crop protection products in canisters.

Sherriff Amenity Enquiry 86

Sweeping the board with new innovations

Greenkeepers looking for the latest product advances to aid integrated pest and disease management shouldn’t miss the new innovative product launches from Bayer at BTME.

Conscious of the need to find new solutions, Bayer will be officially launching a new fungicide to the market at the event. This product will offer the first new chemistry to be developed in ten years, giving greenkeepers more tools in their armoury and helping to mitigate the threat of disease resistance.

The latest update to the TurfXpert app now helps users

to calculate product requirements by mapping out a specific area, using GPS technology to accurately calculate the exact amount of product required to treat the chosen area.

On top of this, any applications that have been made can be recorded in the sprayer log section with the option to forward on the details via email.

Bayer has also added a new weather feature to the updated TurfXpert app, which not only provides the user with the most accurate local weather forecasts, but also advises on dew formation, frost incidence, and soil surface temperature.

The new product and the updated TurfXpert app will be officially launched on Bayer stand A46.

Something very new from Headland Amenity

Making its debut on stand B39 will be TeMag Elite, a threein-one, water-soluble product, containing a full range of chelated micronutrients and Headland’s Elevate Fe, complexed iron, as well as the unique plant elicitor Harpin.

The inclusion of Elevate Fe is significant as its chemical structure prevents the iron from oxidising after application so it is non-staining with no risk of wheel marking when applied at the manufacturer’s suggested rates. It also means TeMag Elite is fully tank-mixable with liquid fertilisers, biostimulants and pesticides including many currently available fungicides.

Harpin Protein contained in TeMag Elite is a plant elicitor that works by stimulating the plant to grow better whilst under the effects of stress, disease and/ or nematode damage. It does not

directly affect a pathogen, nor does it enter the plant.

In addition, Headland will introduce a brand new product at BTME 2017. This exciting and innovative organic product will be of particular interest to the golf market and is designed to maximise the effect of applied liquid treatments, bringing even more consistency to plant responses whatever the conditions.

Headland Amenity Enquiry 93

New duo from Grillo

Grillo will display two new machines at this year’s exhibition.

Pride of place is taken by the FD2200TS, the company’s flagship model.

Powered by a 48hp Yanmar engine its loaded with features such as: 4wd with auto difflock; two speed grass turbine; a huge 1400 ltr grass box; and a diagnostic display.

Alongside will be the FD1309 out-front with its all new

155cm deck, which now comes with push button height of cut adjustment.

To see these two remarkable machines visit Grillo on stand B1.

Grillo Enquiry 87

Wiedenmann UK opts for optimal seasonal kit

Rough management and aeration are Wiedenmann UK’s focus for BTME.

The versatile Super 500 is a turf sweeping, flail mowing, grass collecting phenomenon, powering through dense grasses collecting tightly and tidily as it goes.

ATF Trenchers supply the world’s leading venues

AFT Trenchers Limited manufactures a wide variety of trenchers specifically designed to work on golf courses, sports fields and amenity surfaces.

The company’s equipment is used by leading contractors, golf clubs and sports facilities across the globe and we are proud that our machines have made invaluable contributions to many outstanding sporting venues including World Cup Football, the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. The AFT45 for compact tractors,

refined and improved over more than 15 years, is still the most versatile sportsturf trencher on the market today.

For larger tractors over 70HP, the AFT100 with our unique soil clear-up two tier conveyor system offers high speed, accurate trenching, up to 10 times faster than a backhoe or excavator

The WizzWheels 55 and 75 are the undisputed leaders in their class for the installation of intensive sportsturf drainage systems and can cope with exceptionally hard and stony conditions as well as soft and wet grounds.

AFT Trenchers Limited Enquiry 89

Simply choose its mode for the task in hand. Paired with a 1.7 m or 2.3 m Terra Rake, whose aggressive spring tines can rip out unwanted matter, these two units are the ultimate rough managers favoured by greenkeepers and contractors alike.

Wiedenmann’s Terra Spike range of aerators now has 11 machines from 210 mm to 400 mm. Meet the latest and lightest, the Terra Spike SL for fine turf that weighs less than 470 kg. See Wiedenmann UK at stand C58

Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 88

GKB showcases range of machines

GKB Machines will show the Sandfiller and SP100 Sandspreader, two machines from the company’s range of equipment specifically designed for the maintenance and renovation of golf courses and sports pitches.

The SP100 has been developed on the back of the success of GKB’s trailed versions and to meet customer needs with easy mounting onto turf trucks, such as the John Deere Gator and Toro Workman. The GKB Sandfiller is built to

tackle the problems of surface drainage and aeration, especially on golf course greens. The Sandfiller simultaneously aerates and fills the topsoil with sand, creating the right conditions for excellent root growth.

The Sandfiller and SP100 Sandspreader can be seen at BTME on stand no. A12.

GKB Machines Enquiry 90

Free fertiliser efficiency appraisals from Germinal

Germinal will be challenging greenkeepers to scrutinise the nitrogen efficiency of their existing sward nutrient programmes with a free fertiliser appraisal.

The company will also be showcasing its latest perennial ryegrass cultivar which has topped the Turfgrass Seed booklet’s 2017 Series L list with a fineness of leaf score of 8.8.wCabrio is the most recent

addition to Germinal’s portfolio of perennial ryegrass cultivars for use on golf tees and green aprons. Formally introduced as a new cultivar last year, Cabrio sits at the top of the Turfgrass Seed booklet’s Series L list for 2017 thanks to a fineness of leaf scoring which is half a point ahead of its nearest rival.

Germinal will also be challenging visitors to examine the nitrogen

efficiency of their current turf nutrition programme and to reconsider their fertiliser choice.

“The key remit for any golf or amenity nutrient plan is to ensure that the fertilisers used provide a consistent and long-lasting supply of readily available nutrients to the rootzone with the minimum of losses,” Germinal Amenity Sales Manager Richard Brown explains.

“Whilst an increasing number of turf professionals have moved away from conventional quick release fertilisers in favour of more technologically advanced slow release products, it would be wrong to assume that all slow release fertilisers are equal.”

Germinal Enquiry 92

Bayer Enquiry 91

ClearWater is number one

Highspeed Group is focusing on its number one product ClearWater and sees BTME 2017 as the ideal platform to build on the last twelve months success.

Highspeed Group’s joint MD David Mears commented:

“BTME is always an excellent show for us and 2016 exceeded expectations with us taking a record number of ClearWater enquiries.

“For BTME 2017 we have made ClearWater even better with

some specification changes, free upgrades and an exceptionally attractive price! The time to buy and comply could not be better, particularly for those that have been fortunate enough to receive VAT refunds!.”

Highspeed’s stand (C12) will feature a mini ClearWater display unit to demonstrate some of the new features. There will also be a deal on diesel refueling tanks and an attractive waste management package WasteAway.

Highspeed Group Enquiry 95

New products and rewards for ICL

ICL will be launching a number of exciting new products and showcasing an increased portfolio of qualifying products and new rewards in their Turf Rewards loyalty scheme for 2017 on stand B54.

A new range of H2Pro performance led wetting agents designed specifically to meet the needs of the modern turf manager will be of particular interest to visitors.

Utilising advanced polymer and surfactant technology, the new range of three specialist wetting agents; TriSmart, FlowSmart and AquaSmart have been

carefully formulated and tested to achieve better control of moisture management. Supported by research and backed by end-user testimonials, the new range will be on view for the first time at BTME.

ICL will also be showcasing their new Vitalnova range of biostimulants and turf conditioners: Vitalnova Stressbuster is a unique liquid formulation pre-conditions turf against stress and helps generate quick recovery; Vitalnova Amino Boost is a liquid fertilizer which has been specifically designed to enhance turf quality and support a healthy plant; and Vitalnova SILK is a specially formulated

liquid fertilizer containing high levels of potassium silicate which rapidly increases leaf and stem strength and also helps to produce a cleaner cut.

It will also be an exciting time for customers who make the most of the Turf Rewards loyalty scheme.

Kubota sets wheels in motion

Kubota UK will be showcasing its extensive range of high performance groundcare solutions.

Visitors to stand M22 will have the opportunity to see a wide range of the company’s market leading machinery and also find out how these are backed up with first class aftersales service, including Kubota Finance and Kubota Care.

At the show, Kubota will be celebrating their 40-year

landmark partnership with leading groundcare dealer, GGM Groundscare, and will also be announcing the further expansion of their operations throughout the North West.

Featured on stand will be a host of machines, including Kubota’s popular GL40 Series of 35-59HP mid range tractors, the rugged and versatile RTV-X900 utility vehicle and a number of the company’s mower solutions, from

its out front F Series, the ride-on G26-II (High Dump version) and two walk-behind mowers (W821 and W819). The company will also be showcasing one of its zero turn mowers, the ZD326.

Kubota UK Enquiry 98

Johnsons drive for the top spot in fine turf

Golf clubs looking for high quality turf surfaces need look no further than the 2017 Johnsons Sports Seed line-up.

DLF will be launching Siskin, the new top rated chewings fescue cultivar on the latest independent Turfgrass seed trial list.

Siskin, along with a number of other new cultivars, feature in the latest line up of revised mixtures from Johnsons – which visitors to stand A20 will have

the opportunity to acquaint themselves with.

Siskin is a new, versatile cultivar developed in response to greenkeeper requests.

It combines top visual merit; the highest disease resistance score listed, with incredible shoot density – all of which correlate to improved turf quality and reduced maintenance budgets in terms of fertiliser, fungicides and poa control.

It also has exceptional salt tolerance making it ideal for use on links courses where salt spray can be an issue. Siskin is included in the new formulations of J Green, J Fescue, J Links and J Premier Fairway.

The golf offering from Johnsons Sports Seed is further enhanced with the opportunity to purchase leading mixtures with the ProNitro coating.

DLF/Johnsons Enquiry

Exciting times on the RT stand for 2017

Innovative products, new techniques and maybe a major product launch are promised by Rigby Taylor.

Also on display will be the new Tetraploid Technology and ‘R’ range grass seed mixtures, Germin-8 liquid seed dressing and innovative fertilizer formulations, including a new low sulphur range.

New top performing cultivars feature in ‘R’ range mixtures R9 for cricket & tennis and R14, R14CR & R140 for sports pitches and racecourses, all with Germin-8 seed treatment for faster germination and establishment.

For cold temperature repairs, R314 Rye, R140 & R25CRT germinate from just 4 degrees C to help keep surfaces in play this winter.

Notable success was had at Wembley with the mixtures of R140 and R14CR producing exceptional early germination and establishment.

The same mixtures were used to produce superb playing surfaces

The Headland approach...

The first step to solving any turfgrass problem is to identify the issues affecting it.

Next, it’s essential to understand your needs and requirements before giving any advice and support.

Then, and only then, can a structured plan be built to improve plant health and turf quality.

But that’s not the end.

Our support continues with weather information via ‘weathercheck’ - a forecasting package tailored for the turf industry and mapped to your specific location.

www.headlandamenity.com

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at England’s training complex for Euro 2016.

Germin-8 seed treatment is a potent liquid coating that stimulates and supports accelerated germination and emergence. At germination stage, the emerging seedling has immediate access to a highly beneficial package of targeted nutrients, sugars and micronized mycorrhizae. As a liquid coating, each individual seed is coated, there is no shedding of powder residues, no requirement to increase seeding rate due to extra weight of the bag.

The amazing Ground Water Dynamics surface drainage

system will be showcased at BTME as will Impact Pure, the first totally biodegradable line marking paint.

Visitors to the stand will be able pick up a series of independently compiled cost saving Case Studies and participate in interactive onscreen presentations and talk with the company’s technical and commercial teams over a freshly made, complimentary cup of coffee from the on-stand barista’s - a visit to the stand that won the SALTEX best in show award is a must.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry

99

Charterhouse brings new products to Harrogate

Highlights of the Charterhouse Turf Machinery stand will include an innovative new development from the Graden portfolio, as well as firm favourites from Redexim such as the Rink Disc Top Dresser.

On show in the UK for the very first time will be a new innovation in the Turf Iron market from Graden.

Where traditional rollers are commonly hitched up to a utility vehicle during transportation, the new machine from Graden is ‘self-contained’ eliminating any health & safety issues caused by the hitching, lifting and positioning of a traditional roller.

It features 4 wheels which are raised when the roller is in use, then lowered to allow for quick and easy movement between greens. Fitted with a 23hp v-twin engine and tapered rollers to minimise creasing, it’s a real

step forward for the speed and efficiency of greens rolling. Charterhouse welcome visitors to come and look at the prototype model on show at BTME, and welcome comments and feedback.

The Redexim Rink DS800 top dresser, which compliments the company’s range of Verti-Drains, will be another popular highlight.

The Rink DS800 can be either trailed behind a 30hp compact tractor with the benefit of 4 wheels on an articulating axle, or fitted to a John Deere Pro Gator or Toro Workman truck for a light foot print.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 100

ATT’s simply advanced equipment on show

Advanced Turf Technology (ATT) can be found in Hall M, stand M7, under its own name for the first time.

The company has become recognised as one of the foremost innovators in the turf industry, with agronomic based product designs that continue to push the boundaries.

The unique TMSystem is universally regarded as one of the best engineered products on the market and unlocks the full potential of all main-stream makes of triplex greens mowers and lightweight fairway mowers.

The range of SMART cassettes available offers the Greenkeeper a solution based approach to managing fine turf surfaces - whatever type of grass is present, and at all times of the

year. One such cassette, the SmartUltraGroomer, is worth particular mention with its unique design being able to reduce the onset of puffiness, grain issues and a general reduction in organic matter accumulation. This can all be achieved without undue stress to the plant, or negatively affecting putt quality and the players overall enjoyment.

Rapidly becoming the company’s flagship product is the all new electric INFiNiCut.

ATT Enquiry 102

Superior line-up for Dennis & SISIS

Whether you need a scarifier, slitter, aerator, top dresser, mower or have any other natural and synthetic maintenance requirements, Dennis and SISIS will have the solution on stand A5 at BTME 2017.

Appearing on a newlydesigned stand, the innovative British manufacturers will be

showcasing an extensive range of leading turf maintenance equipment which is relied upon by turf professionals all over the world.

Headlining the range of innovative equipment is the SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 and the Rotorake TM1000 – both of which are set to attract a lot of interest from visitors who are looking to maintain their sports surfaces to the highest standards.

The all-stellar line-up from Dennis and SISIS also features favourites such as the SISIS Rotorake 600HD, the SISIS Dart, the Dennis FT510 and the Dennis Razor Ultra 560.

Time to re-engage with the Trilo range

Visitors to stand M6 will be able to discuss the many products from their machinery range that find a home on golf courses. One such product of particular interest will be the new second generation S4 vacuum sweeper.

The new Trilo S4 contains many new features including an improved drive line, bigger wheels and a higher tip for convenient emptying of the 4m3 capacity hopper.

One of the main changes is the switch from hydraulic to mechanical drive meaning a flail scarifier attachment can be fitted. With this it is possible to cut and collect in one single pass.

It also utilises the hood from the recently adapted Trilo S8. The S4 is fitted as standard with a 1.8m wide suction hood and a 5m long, 250mm wide wander hose to allow for greater cleaning capacity in those hard to get to areas.

Also on display on stand M6 will be the VCU 120, from Trilo’s VCU series of verticutters. Greenkeepers are well aware of the benefits of removing thatch and unwanted lateral growth on fine turf but finding the right machine can be tricky. Weighing in at just 225kg whilst offering a working width of 1.2m, the VCU 120 makes a sensible choice for greens and tees, teamed up with a compact tractor.

The slightly offset design means scarification can take place right up to the edge of the green or tee without risking damage by the tyres. The rugged tungsten tipped blades, spaced at either 25mm or 50mm, can easily handle thatch build ups down to a depth of 50mm.

John Deere launches new fairway mower

Combining higher capacity mowing with premium cut quality and after-cut appearance, John Deere’s new 8900A

PrecisionCut fairway mower is the latest addition to the company’s award-winning A Model family of fairway, rough, trim and surrounds mowers.

With the new 8900A, which is the widest John Deere PrecisionCut fairway mower yet, users can now maximise both productivity and cut quality while having more control over how the machine performs.

The mower offers a choice of 26 or 30in (66 or 76cm) wide cutting units, both 7in (18cm) in diameter, which provide an overall cutting width of 114 or 130in (2.9m or 3.3m) together with exceptional contour following. Both units offer an optional verticutter

attachment for increased versatility and convenience.

The 26in (66cm) cutting units are available in five, eight or 10 blade versions, with optional fairway tender conditioners and rear roller power brushes to further enhance cutting performance. The larger 30in (76cm) cutting units have five or eight blades and allow higher capacity mowing. Precision adjustment of both these units is a simple task thanks to the ingenious SpeedLink system, which is proven on John Deere’s existing fairway mower range.

John Deere Enquiry 103

Complete Weed Control brings new service

Complete Weed Control will be at stand C48, where visitors will be able to find out more information on the company’s new Complete Artificial Grass service.

Complete Artificial Grass has perfected the art of installing premium artificial grass using the finest products on the market. Their experienced national teams can simulate the look, feel, and performance of natural grass in virtually any commercial or domestic environment and under the most extreme soil and weather conditions.

There are six products available in the range that will not only look wonderful all year round, but can also be installed to be impact absorbing for play areas with the installation of a shock pad.

Complete Tee can be installed to provide an unrivalled realistic playing surface facilitating play all year round. Complete Green has been designed to be durable while still providing a true and realistic playing surface. Complete Pathway is the solution for those looking for an attractive and extremely low maintenance solution for pathways, and cartways.

Complete Weed Control Enquiry 104

Perennial Ryegrass Blends

Eight superb grass seed mixtures featuring Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrasses, all with Germin-8 liquid seed treatment

Double the number of chromosomes compared to diploid perennial ryegrass Increased cellular chloroplast boosts chlorophyll production for energy absorption Provides a robust, healthier plant with improved stress and recovery capability

Fas t ger mination from 4°C

Super ior winter wear

Increased chlorophyll production

Stronger, deeper, denser roots

Great drought tolerance

Excellent disease tolerance

Superb colour

recommended mixture for every grass

face for the construction renovation

seeding and repair across a wide range of sports, golf and landscape applications

Dennis + SISIS Enquiry 105

Trilo returns to BTME 2017 with a bigger stand and a brand new location in Hall M.

Trilo Enquiry 106

Ecoplugs go to work on sensitive site

Monsanto’s Ecoplug Max is helping a specialist contractor manage a tricky tree project on a sensitive wildlife site.

LanGuard Ltd offers an amenity and industrial vegetation control service to clients including local authorities and highways contractors, the

nationwide company fi nds that Ecoplug Max is increasingly meeting specifications for a clean, safe way to deal with unwanted tree growth.

Development Director Alisdair Mason explains: “Ecoplug Max is not only a very effective way of treating cut stumps to prevent

regrowth, but also gives clients the reassurance that the specified trees have been treated, as they can see the plugs in place.”

Ecoplug Max delivers glyphosate directly into the tree stump, killing its root system and preventing re-growth using a patented method which

minimises the risk of herbicide exposure for the operator and environmental contamination through spillage or run-off.

Each plug contains 300mg of granular glyphosate which is released inside the stump ensuring that all of the active ingredient is carefully targeted where it is needed. The glyphosate is translocated through the stump and down to the roots preventing new growth sprouting and leaving the stump to gradually rot away.

Plugs are simply placed into holes drilled into the stump using the Ecoplug drill bit, and hammered in forcing out the sides of the plug and releasing the glyphosate into the phloem.

Timberwolf strengthens dealer network

Timberwolf has further strengthened its UK and Ireland dealer network with the appointment of Leinster Turf Equipment as their dealer for Northern Ireland.

This new appointment builds on the existing success Leinster Turf Equipment have achieved with the Timberwolf brand over the last 3 years as the dealer for the Irish market.

“We are very much looking forward to working with Timberwolf in both Ireland and Northern Ireland markets” explained Derek Inglis, Director Leinster Turf Equipment. “We have already received significant interest in Northern Ireland

following the recent launch of TW 280TDHB, TW 280TFTR and TW 160PH products”.

The news, announced by Timberwolf’s Sales and Marketing Director, Guy Marshlain, follows on the heels of the recent expansion of territory coverage for Spectrum Plant and Green Lay.

Spectrum Plant’s Timberwolf’s territory expands to include Harrogate, Whitby, Wakefield and Selby with Green Lay take responsibility for the Durham, Darlington, Redcar and Cleveland area.

Timberwolf Enquiry 109

Chainsaws to tackle the toughest tasks

The Husqvarna Battery Chainsaw - 536LiXP (pictured) is a high performance, lightweight chainsaw.

Whatever the application this heavy duty battery chainsaw will help you get the job done fast. The Husqvarna 536Li XP battery chainsaw has many benefits over a equivalent performance petrol model.

As the chainsaws use Husqvarna designed and engineered brushless motors which reduce vibrations, weight and noise generated by the chainsaw, this allows a professional chainsaw user to start earlier and finish later and extend operational use in residential or urban areas where noise emissions are an issue.

Powered by 36V Li-ion integrated or backpack batteries, a Husqvarna battery chainsaw offer a performance exceeding that of their petrol equivalents,

and a class leading maximum chain speed of 20m/s. Husqvarna battery series all use the same batteries, and as a consequence batteries are interchangeable between products. Extremely easy to use and start thanks to an intuitive key pad, this rechargeable chainsaw also offers a power saving mode suitable for less demanding tasks, extending the runtime of the batteries.

The new Husqvarna 550 XP TrioBrake is developed for tree care professionals and skilled land owners. The saw has a ground breaking design and is loaded with innovative solutions for efficient, convenient operation.

Husqvarna’s unique X-Torq engine technology provide more power where you need it, up to 20% less fuel consumption and 75% less exhaust emission.

Husqvarna Enquiry 110

Monsanto Enquiry 108

Haecksler UK distributor revealed

Haecksler, a Dutch company who produce some of the finest professional compact chippers, has announced the appointment of Upson Mowers Ltd as the exclusive distributor for Haecksler sales in the UK.

Upsons has over 45 years’ experience of providing high performance, reasonably priced, ultra-reliable machines to customers. Upson Mowers is confident the the market is

ready for the new machines and feedback has already been positive. The company has employed extra staff to cope with demand and to ensure that the professional mower side of the business continues to thrive.

It also plans to announce another exciting development involving a market leading brand in the grass cutting sector soon.

GreenMech showcases new machines and British manufacturing

British woodchipper manufacturer GreenMech has delivered an update on the company’s progress – including the launch of new machines and continued investment in the company’s in-house design and production facilities.

Sales Director Martin Lucas said GreenMech had enjoyed a very successful and busy two-year period, which includes new additions to the product range as well as upgrades to, the Arborist and QuadChipmachines.

The company has also launched GreenMech Finance and introduced a new blade sharpening unit – which provides customers with the control to sharpen their own disc blades. A key area of interest was the number of new dealer partnerships established both in the UK and overseas.

Committed to the dealer route to market, GreenMech have a home market and export split of 40/60, with international trading in 30 countries. The latest on that list include Poland, Turkey, South Korea and Russia.

The newest product in the range is the Arborist 200, joining popular favourites such as the QuadChip 160 and the company’s unique Safe-Trak unit.

Enquiry 114

Tree protection from Wrekin

Wrekin Products has a comprehensive range of tree root and grass protection geosynthetics.

The Wrekin Tree Root Protection System has recently been unveiled.

Building on its recent success with the ProtectaWeb Tree

a specially engineered geocell and geotextiles to enable development with damaging existing trees.

Customer service and technical support has been a major factor in the success of this extremely effective solution for tree root protection.

Polaris models

Polaris will officially announce at the LAMMA show that all new Polaris ATVs and Side by Side vehicles (excluding the Youth range) will be fitted with the CESAR ATV System.

Security for ATVs and Utility vehicles has become a growing concern and as Europe’s leading All-Terrain Vehicle manufacturer, Polaris has taken this positive action towards protecting customers’ vehicles.

The company has formed a new partnership with the CESAR Scheme - the official security initiative of the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) and the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association) and Datatag, who are the technology partner behind CESAR.

CESAR, is already widely recognized on larger construction and agricultural equipment and since launch over 225,000 machines have been registered and are protected with CESAR.

The CESAR System is fitted to new Polaris vehicles by authorised Polaris dealers, and comprises both visible and covert markings which are a real deterrent to the prospective thieves. Should a vehicle be taken, quick police access to the CESAR database provides an instant trace on stolen equipment via Datatag’s 24/7 UK Secure Contact Centre.

The system is recognized by national and local government agencies and supported by the Home Office and National Police Chiefs’ Council.

Polaris Security Enquiry 116

Upson Mowers Enquiry 113

GreenMech

AS Motor has solution to high grass on steep slopes

Samurai arrives in the UK

Battery powered tools from Bosch

For over 50 years, AS Motor has been working continuously on new technologies.

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 brushcutters 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 now has the solutionthe new 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 remote-controlled 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 39° (ride-on operation 23°); and emergency stop.

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 119

ICB Plant & Machinery Ltd has been granted the exclusive distributor rights to market the Japanese Canycom range of brushcutters in the UK and Ireland.

Marketed under the Samurai brand, we believe these are the only mechanical 4WD – Shaft Driven deck equipped all terrain brushcutter mower in the UK marketplace. The unique shaft

drive means that 100% of the power from the industrial Subaru engines is transferred to the cutting blades.

ICB Plant & Machinery Limited holds the exclusive distributor rights in the UK and Ireland for Canycom construction tracked machinery.

ICB Plant & Machinery Ltd Enquiry 118

Machine for difficult terrain

The STIHL FR 460 TC-EM backpack brushcutter uses the powerful, advanced and fuelefficient STHIL 2-MIX engine.

The softly padded carrying system distributes the weight of the engine ergonomically over the user’s shoulders and hips, and a flexible coupling between the engine and tool’s shaft makes the brushcutter more manouevrable, even when working uphill. STIHL has even set a tool bag into the backpack’s support frame

so accessories like extra cutting tools are ready to hand.

It is equipped with the M-Tronic electronic engine management system as standard. M-Tronic precisely regulates the ignition timing and fuel mix in every machine operating state, optimizing performance and efficiency even at changing temperatures and altitudes or when running on varying fuel grades.

STIHL Enquiry 120

Aching fingers and joints, headaches and smelly fumes could be a thing of the past as traditional petrol powered tools make way for battery power.

The Bosch range of professional cordless garden tools includes a mobile power unit, brushcutters and a longer-life 36v 9.0Ah weatherproof battery.

All products in the Bosch Professional range share the same concept - powered by Lithium-ion batteries they perform as petrol equivalents but with low noise, low vibrations and savings on running costs. They are also more convenient to use and maintain than petrol models and easy to start up.

Joao Barufi, who leads the Bosch Garden Tools division in the UK. “We’ve now applied our award-winning battery technology across a wide variety of cutting-edge professional tools to complete the range. The convenience and low-vibration of our quiet cordless products, coupled with top-end petrol performance is sure to impress.”

A serious issue for regular users of powered garden equipment is

known as White Finger or HAVS (Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome) and is virtually eliminated by the low vibration electric tools.The entire range benefits from low noise emissions with new models quieter than some domestic vacuum cleaners. Not only do they provide peace and quiet when used in public spaces, but also offer higher user comfort; extending the hours in which gardeners can work.

The batteries are weatherresistant and compatible with all products in the range – mowers, hedgecutters, leaf blowers and brushcutters. They feature a fast 42-minute recharge time for the 6.0Ah batteries, and a 64-minute recharge time for the 9.0Ah.

A key addition to the new range is the GEN 230V-1500 Professional Mobile Power unit which provides off-grid power for all-day working. The unit has twin AC sockets and allows for simultaneous charging of 2 batteries, or direct running of 2 electrical appliances. An LCD display presents real-time status information and enables the user to manage remaining “tank” capacity.

Mitox packed with pedigree

The Japanese-made Mitox represents a formidable range of commercial brushcutters. The new Mitox machines, formerly Kawasaki, still boast Kawasaki engines and quality Japanese manufacture, yet at lower prices in 2015 than you would have paid for the equivalent Kawasaki brushcutter in 2014.

At the top end of the brushcutter range is the Mitox heavy-duty 5300UK PRO for the professional who is using a brushcutter all day in harsh surroundings

Bosch

ECHO is the professional’s choice

The SRM-420TES from ECHO’s high torque range, designed and built exclusively for professional operators it utilises multiple technologies to enhance user productivity and comfort.

With a 1:2.07 gear reduction ratio, the SRM-420TES’s high torque gearbox spins the cutting head one-and-a-quarter turns per engine cycle and delivers 50% more torque than its predecessor. This extra torque means that, when fitted with heavier line, the brushcutter can make short work of even dense bramble or brush without losing head speed.

The cutting head on the 420TES has been upgraded too. Now with an extra 7.6cm of cutting radius, operators can cut wider swathes, reducing the number of passes required to complete the job at hand. Coupled with ECHO’s ‘Tap & Go’ quick line release system, the SRM-420TES can quickly work through larger areas with few stops to load new line.

The 420TES benefits from a new engine design. Now stage 2 emission compliant, the 41.5cc engine boasts a power output of 1.78kW, over 10% more than its predecessor. Engine performance has been further enhanced thanks to a new air filter design.

Positioned at the rear of the machine, away from flying dirt and debris, filtration has been greatly improved, allowing for smooth and efficient engine performance. Access to the filter is toolfree and the cover can be removed and fitted by hand, even when the operator is wearing work gloves.

A newly designed quick hook-up and release harness is features on this U handle brushcutter. This allows the operator to easily detach themselves from the machine quickly should the need arise.

126

Etesia launches SKD ExxDrive

The Etesia Attila mower has become synonymous with cutting high, dense vegetation in difficult terrain. Now, Etesia UK is pleased to announce it is available as a fully automatic robotic mower with the use of an iPad.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive has been developed with partners FeBroLift GmbH and is a completely new type of external operating concept that allows the user to operate the device reliably and precisely by means of a gesture-controlled operation

via an app on an iPad - without having to sit on the mower itself.

All functions, which the device contains serially, can also be accessed via the tablet, including the permanent use of the ‘deadman button’ during use which ensures safety at all times. If an emergency does occur; the device can be switched off via a secure emergency stop function.

The biggest advantage of the Etesia SKD ExxDrive is that it can be fitted with a dual wheel kit and be used on steep slopes where

mowing work can be carried out with a low risk to the operator, who can stay at a safe distance and avoid risks of being injured, while still ensuring a high productivity in difficult terrain.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive retains all of the features of a standard SKD mower including an 85cm cutting width and cutting decks with steel reinforcements specifically designed to withstand different mowing conditions for a long period.

Etesia Enquiry 124

Makita’s back-pack brushcutter

The Makita EM4350RH backpack brushcutter is designed for use by grounds care contractors where large areas of rough vegetation need to be cleared.

Powered by a 43cc 2hp version of Makita’s advanced MM4 4-stroke engine, this back-pack brush cutter

weighs just 12kg. With the fully padded harness it is comfortable to operate and vibrations are minimal.

With the engine effectively separated from the carry frame by four isolating springs, which damp out any vibrations, the vibration effect on the operator is greatly

reduced. Operator controls are at the handgrip position controlling throttle opening and cutting drive.

A useful accessory pouch is fitted at the back of the harness for carrying replacement blades and the required multi-tool spanner.

Enquiry 125

CAMON’s 4-stroke brushcutters prove a hit

Trimming up after the mower, edging lawns, clearing vegetation from trees, posts and the base of hedges and mowing in areas that can be inaccessible for bigger machines, the brushcutter is an indispensable tool for professional landscapers and homeowners.

CAMON brushcutters from Tracmaster are designed to satisfy the needs and working demands of all users. Features include anti-vibration and adjustable handlebars for perfect weight distribution, market leading engines, safety goggles, bump feed head and grass blade as standard.

Tracmaster also supplies a large range of alternative cutting heads, from clearing saws to the fantastic Nylsaw Speed heads.

Three different models of 4 stroke brushcutter are available,

including the Combi HO25 with brushcutter, hedgetrimmer, chain pruner and a 75cm Extension for longer reach.

Tracmaster

Enquiry 127

Makita

ECHO Enquiry

Lantra joins City & Guilds as part of Reesink Turfcare training

Reesink Turfcare is delighted to be working with Lantra, the national awarding organisation, to provide its biggest range of vocational training for landbased disciplines yet.

Lantra joins the City & Guilds training already on offer through Reesink Turfcare as well as Toro and TYM manufacturer-backed turfcare machinery training, which is also new for 2017. All this, with nine courses in total means there is more choice than ever.

Neil Adams, head of turfcare training at Reesink, says: “Whether a turf professional

at a golf club, sports stadium, amenity and parkland setting, school or small holding, Reesink works closely with Toro and TYM to provide a wide range of courses. These are delivered by nationally recognised quality assured trainers and assessors to develop skills and competency in the use of mowers, spraying units and tractors.

“Partnering with Lantra further strengthens our offering and position as a full training provider.

“Now with our new Toro and TYM manufacturer-backed training to level one and working

with accredited training bodies such as Lantra and City & Guilds to level two, we have a comprehensive training offering to suit everybody.”

Available by post from Reesink, or via reesinkturfcare.co.uk, all course details can be viewed in a new bumper 16-page guide. These include the popular turfcare mechanic course and sprayer technician course to level one and the recently added compact tractor driving award to both level one and two, as well as pesticides application course to level two.

Neil continues: “The new range of courses and levels of training on offer means we now provide training not just to the novice, but the more experienced, too, and demonstrates our belief in continuously improving standards in the industry.

“We’re continuing to make training convenient with some courses again optionally delivered at the trainees’ working premises, using familiar equipment in a familiar environment. This set-up means it could not be easier for customers to develop and invest in their employees.”

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 130

Can-Am takes new Defender to the max

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is enhancing its side-by-side vehicle (SSV) range in 2017 with the addition of the new Can-Am Defender MAX DPS.

The innovative SSV has been designed to combine the comfort, control and power of the original Can-Am Defender with the ability to carry six passengers, providing a larger versatile workhorse vehicle that can handle the rigours of multiple terrains and applications.

The unit is powered by either the 50-hp HD8 or 72-hp HD10 Rotax V-Twin engine. Both have been designed with work in mind by Rotax’s engineers and offer the user the right amount of torque, performance and power when riding the trails or towing and hauling goods.

This latest addition to the Defender line-up features a new high rigidity chassis made from

high-strength low alloy (HSLA) grade steel, which ensures the SSV has a solid design that allows it to handle the strain of heavy loads easily.

The Defender MAX DPS has also been fitted with lightweight cast-

aluminium wheels and Maxxis big horn tyres, which allow it to respond effectively to rugged terrains, from rocky assents to boggy fields and marshland.

Green Stripe Garden Machinery joins TYM dealer network

Green Stripe Garden Machinery is the latest in and concludes an extensive list of dealers to take on the distribution of TYM Tractors’ product range in the UK in 2016.

The North Lincolnshire firm, which celebrates 20 years in the business in 2017, has opted to be an exclusive TYM dealer because the tractors not only “excel in comparison to the alternatives” says managing director Gavin Bird, but also because of the strong relationship with Reesink Turfcare and in particular TYM sales manager Steven Haynes and product manager Scott Turner.

“We had a very good demo with the TYM Tractors, finding them to deliver in all areas. We’re in a rural setting where there aren’t many chimney pots and our customers are predominantly

top-end domestic users with a lot of land to tend. The demo proved that the compact range of TYM Tractors will suit their requirements perfectly. It was also clear TYM would suit across the board for the rest of our customers’ requirements in the landscape community and contractors, caravan parks and some small-agriculture holdings, too.

“Cementing the decision is the fact that it is important as a small, but successful family-run company to work with the best in the business and for us that meant working with Steven and Scott at Reesink.”

This agreement concludes a successful year for Green Stripe with one highlight being nominated by its manufacturers and reaching the final eight in the nationwide Service Dealer Awards.

Also

Steven Haynes, TYM sales manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “We’ve broadened the dealer base, to include those with access to the hobby farmer and small-holder, the equestrian customers and also large private houses and estates.

“The TYM product range has models that are perfectly suited to meet and exceed the expectations of all of these customers.”

joining the TYM dealer network in 2016 are Oakley Garden Machinery in Somerset, Curtis and Shaw in East Sussex, Riverlea Tractors in Pembrokeshire and Revill Mowers in Gloucestershire, further strengthening the geographical availability of the TYM product and the support network behind it.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry

Koro TopDrain saves time and money for Bourne Amenity

Bourne Amenity has seen a dramatic increase in the speed they can carry out drainage works along with time labour and time savings since purchasing a Koro TopDrain 1500 from Campey Turf Care Systems.

The decision to obtain a machine from Campey came after consistent recommendations for it to be used on projects by varying consultants, prompting contracts manager, Alex Lingard, to research the TopDrain.

After carrying out this research, comparing it to their previous machine and speaking to Campey directly the decision was made to make the purchase. Bourne Amenity’s new TopDrain has already been booked for use on rugby and football pitches as well as at East Sussex National Golf Club, and Alex is looking forward to what it will offer other clients in 2017.

The TopDrain beats conventional methods because of its unique multifunctional process. During one pass it trenches, removes spoil, injects sand and re-compacts the surface, with significant material and labour saving, faster processing times and less surface contamination. It completes three trenches in a single pass, giving it a superior edge on other machines on the market.

Pellenc launches smart Battery Park Management

Pellenc has announced the launch of an intelligent smart Battery Park Management (BMS) system, which will allow users to charge up to ten batteries simultaneously.

On the front of the cabinet is a user friendly touch pad

that allows the operator to individually control all of the batteries charging input. You can choose from standard preprogrammed or maintenance charges, and enter in to the system, the cost of electricity and cost of petrol.

Over the preceding weeks and months, the system will calculate the savings made – both in fuel and electricity, while also

showing the amount of Co 2 that has been offset which will become even more important in this environmentally-friendly conscious age.

Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Johnsons of Whixley supplies multi-million pound park

Etesia UK Enquiry 149 Johnsons of Whixley, the leading supplier of plants and trees to the amenity sector in the UK, has supplied a contract grow worth £138,000

Brooke Park, located near the city centre, has recently been reopened after a £5.6 million regeneration project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Stormont executive.

GB Landscapes, a 70-strong landscape contractor team

soft landscaping, construction works and commercial and public authority landscapingappointed Johnsons of Whixley to supply a variety of plants to the scheme. The contract included 13,000 shrubs, 14,500 herbaceous and grasses, 4,300 rhododendron and azalea, 1,300 roses, hedging and 130 trees.

Johnsons of Whixley Ltd is one of the largest commercial nursery businesses in Europe and a trusted supplier of plants and trees to the amenity sector.

Johnsons of Whixley Ltd

Bourne Amenity Enquiry 148

to supply a historic park in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.