Landscape & Amenity Product Update July 2015

Landscape Amenity

Soft Landscaping Case studies

Grass Cutting Machinery

API welcomes report but urges more to get children active

The Association of Play Industries (API) is urging policy makers and head teachers to take a broad approach to tackling the physical inactivity crisis so that children of all ages and abilities are motivated to be active before, after and throughout the school day.

The API, the voice of the UK play sector, welcomes the key recommendations set out in not-forprofit health body ukactive’s Generation Inactive report, launched by Baroness Tanni GreyThompson, but is concerned that it will encourage policy initiatives that over-focus on school sport to the detriment of other important, more inclusive forms of physical activity like outdoor learning and play.

API Manager Deborah Holt says: “We wholeheartedly support the report’s recommendations for head

teachers to implement a wholeschool approach to physical activity which sees physical literacy valued as highly – and assessed as rigorously by Ofstedas literacy and numeracy. In fact we called for this in our own General Election asks.

“We also support the proposed repurposing of the current Sport Premium for schools as a Physical Activity Premium which is a logical step to ensure children are physically active during every aspect of school life, not just during PE lessons.”

“We are concerned, however, at the implications of the recommendation to introduce structured playtime activities. This will inevitably enforce participation in rigid, competitive sports activities which alienate

many children and may put them off physical activity for life.

“Children also need opportunities to play freely and spontaneously between lesson time. The physical, developmental and social benefits of active outdoor play are well-evidenced and we believe sacrificing play would have a negative impact on children’s well-being.”

The association supports ukactive’s recommendations to improve teacher training but calls to extend the scope beyond PE provision. It says that teacher training institutions should provide high quality training on effective ways to build physical activity of all kinds into every aspect of the curriculum and of the school day.

API Enquiry 1

New BIM tools aimed at landscape professionals

Specialist software provider to the landscape designers, architects and contractors, Keysoft Solutions has developed a library of free Building Information Modelling (BIM) assets.

The free tools include a practical guide, jargon buster, checklist and webinar to help them to prepare for compliance by January 2016.

The UK Government has mandated that Level 2 BIM must be used on all centrally-

funded construction projects by 2016, including landscape.

This means that to work on these projects landscape professionals need to be able to collaborate with central government departments and ensure their technology and processes are BIM compliant.

Mike Shilton, product director at Keysoft Solutions explains: “Anyone already using our software is working to at least BIM Level 1 but it is also Level 2 compliant, enabling customers to prepare the

necessary data, so it is just a matter of ensuring they have the right collaboration and information sharing processes in place.

“The most important thing about applying BIM Level 2 is the impact that it has on business processes rather than software and this is where the new library will add most value.”

Keysoft Solutions Enquiry 2

Landscape industry could do more in encouraging sustainable practice

A survey of 100 landscape professionals, garden designers and landscape architects suggests that fewer than a fifth of clients (19%) are asking for sustainability to be part of a brief.

The survey, undertaken by Palmstead Nurseries ahead of its Strictly Sustainable workshop on 16 September, questioned participants on their plant choices, carbon footprint and their clients’ knowledge and appetite for sustainability.

The results reveal that only half of those questioned were using sustainably sourced plants, with fewer than a quarter (23%) using

recycled concrete and just 39% integrating sustainably sourced water into their projects.

Half of those questioned (51%) felt that the industry was on the right track but that more could be done in terms of embracing

sustainability, while a quarter said they ‘still didn’t feel sufficiently equipped to know enough about their carbon footprint’.

Nurseries Enquiry 3

Palmstead

Welcome...

Charity begins at home, so they say, and this industry has an excellent track record of looking after its own and helping others. It is heartening, but not too surprising, therefore, to hear that Perennial’s annual fundraising appeal, HortAid, has already raised over £50,000 in the first half of the year.

The charity’s plan for a Go Green fortnight, which runs from 1 – 14 September, is likely to see another major boost to fundraising efforts.

The work of Perennial – and others both large and small – cannot be underestimated. This industry, along with many others, has suffered badly during the economic downturn. It has never been the best paid profession, but the added uncertainty of the recession has left many within the industry in a precarious position.

The way the industry rallies around those in need says everything about the type of people attracted to the profession. In an ideal world, we wouldn’t need such mammoth fundraising efforts such as HortAid. But, in reality, the likes of Perennial provide an invaluable lifeline and service that the industry needs to continue supporting.

As the sun starts to shine, the temperatures begin to rise and workloads (hopefully) start to increase, we are taking the opportunity to focus on some big and popular product areas this month.

There are special spotlights on all aspects of grass cutting machinery and the ever-expanding market for ATVs, UTVs and trailers. We also take a look at soft landscaping products and services.

We also have our usual mix of product news covering all aspects of the industry – from machinery and plant, through to hard landscaping and street furniture. There is also a round-up of the latest news and views.

We are all looking forward to what should be a long and productive summer and if that includes a spot of fundraising along the way, then best of luck and thanks for continuing to support this great industry.

Contents:

Paul Groves Editor

PUBLISHER

David Stiles david@tspmedia.co.uk

EDITOR

Paul Groves paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

CIRCULATION

PRODUCTION Charita Lala copy@tspmedia.co.uk

Olympic legacy leads to development of grating fencing

Striking new fencing installed at Olympic legacy venues has been launched by perimeter fencing manufacturer Zaun.

The Grata grating fence solution has been used at two sites on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park –the ArcelorMittal Orbit and the former hockey venue at Eton Manor, now transformed into the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.

Zaun has designed a mesh grating system that can be suitably adapted to a variety of applications, from perimeter fencing to cladding and handrails. Grating fences are perfect for the modern environment and provide

sites with a more aesthetic and contemporary appearance.

The grating fence system consists of a combination of bearing bars and filler control bars running in both directions that are pressed and welded together in one process in a pressure welder to give Grata system maximum strength.

All products are hot-dip galvanized and available powder coated in any colour. The system comes with optional sliding and swing pedestrian and vehicle gates to fit the environment in which the fence line is placed.

Zaun Enquiry 6

Bosch demonstrates the future of professional gardening solutions

Bosch has staged its first Professional Garden Tools event at Devonport House, Greenwich, showcasing and demonstrating the environmentally friendly garden tools - battery powered lawnmowers, brush-cutters and line trimmers.

The new range of batterypowered mowers, brush-cutters and line trimmers are aimed at the professional market.

By using highly efficient battery systems and eliminating servicing costs, the mowers effectively pay for themselves in less than three years of regular use.

For professional gardeners using the new Bosch cordless garden tools for up to four hours per working day, the fuel savings and

lack of servicing costs would mean that the switch from petrol to electric would save around £520 per year. Regardless of usage patterns, the annual energy cost of battery versus petrol tools is well below 10%.

The British-built products allow for all-day working thanks to low noise and low vibration levels produced by the weatherproof high performance batteries. The battery brush cutters are ideal for use in noise sensitive areas thanks to the low noise cutting blade and line. In comparison to a conventional petrol brush cutter, the Bosch Professional is at least five times quieter.

The batteries, which can be used in both the mowers and brushcutters, take just 42 minutes to

recharge, providing enough power to mow an area equivalent to an entire football pitch.

The new professional models are weatherproof and produce significantly lower noise than their petrol alternatives. Moreover, the fuel savings that flow from battery-powered technology mean that the mowers and brushcutters could effectively pay for themselves over a few years.

“Not

Bosch Enquiry 7

day.”

only does our new range provide a powerful batterypowered alternative to petrol,” said Bosch garden expert Joao Barufi, “our mower is also quieter than some domestic vacuum cleaners so professionals can get on with their work at any time of the

Conference to encourage youngsters into industry

With education set to play a major role at SALTEX 2015 (4-5 November, at NEC Birmingham) through the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) Learning Live initiative, seminar content is taking shape with details of the Young Groundsmen’s Conference the first to be confirmed.

Sponsored by Rigby Taylor and Top Green, the conference has been organised by the Institute of Groundsmanship’s Young Board of Directors and will deliver invaluable advice on how to develop a rewarding career in groundsmanship by a number of leading experts.

This conference is the second annual event for the IOG. It fits with the Young Board’s remit to promote their career, and the industry as a whole, to young people and to effectively network and knowledge share with young

groundsmen/women who already work within the industry.

Commenting on the Young Groundsmen’s Conference at SALTEX 2015, Will Graves, chair of the IOG’s Young Board of Directors, said: “Encouraging others into groundsmanship is by far the most enjoyable aspect of being part of the IOG’s Young Board and seeing young people entering the industry is highly rewarding. This conference will help prepare them for a great future in this sector.”

The IOG, together with the Young Board, are actively promoting this event to landbased colleges and to younger members of grassroots and professional groundscare teams.

Industry experts help develop new soil standard

Tim O’Hare, principal consultant at soil and landscape consultancy Tim O’Hare Associates, and Andy Spetch, manager at British Sugar Topsoil, have welcomed the recent publication of the updated specification for topsoil, BS 3882:2015.

This completes many months of input from both men as members of the BS 3882 Working Group to produce the standard’s third revision since it was first published in 1965. BS 3882:2015 covers multi-purpose topsoils,

and acidic, calcareous and other specialist soils that are moved or traded.

It sets out requirements for topsoil classification and composition, specifies characteristics such as texture, acidity and contaminants, includes information on sampling and analysis, and advises about soil handling to ensure topsoil is not degraded during excavation, delivery or placement.

British Sugar Topsoil Enquiry 13

Groundsmen focus on pitch improvements

Headingley

insight into the science behind the surfaces used at the world’s leading tournaments including the most recent FIFA World Cup in Brazil and also the problems that could face Russia when they host the event in 2018.

Perennial launches Go Green for HortAid during bumper year

Perennial’s annual fundraising appeal, HortAid, has already raised over £50,000 in 2015.

This includes over £13,500 from challenge events thanks to The Grubby Gardeners mud run and skydive and Nigel Bowcocks’s two marathons in two weeks event.

offer to those working in and retired from horticulture without the help of people across the industry. Our Go Green for HortAid campaign is a crucial part of our annual income and we’re calling on everyone to green up and dig deep this year. Let’s make it one to remember.”

Organised by Everris and Syngenta, the educational event was attended by over 50 grounds managers, head groundsmen, contractors and distributors; giving them the opportunity to engage in active discussion and debate on the merits and potential for different techniques.

Andy Cole, head of agronomy services at STRI was a key note speaker giving the audience an

Richard Walton, Everris Business Manager for the UK & Ireland, said: "The feedback we have received from groundsmen attending the day has been extremely positive, and we are looking forward to putting more educational events like this in the future."

Everris

Enquiry 11

CourseCare.net goes live for Highspeed Group

To meet increasing demand for on-line purchase, Highspeed Group Ltd has launched their new website CourseCare.net

The new web store, created and maintained by Highspeed’s Business Development Manager, Ryan Anderton, features many of the products and services Highspeed are renowned for: workwear, tools, janitorial items, safe storage, oils and associated products but new is the vast array of equipment.

A huge new Safety Catalogue is available too offering a

comprehensive range of safety products including thousands of signs for virtually every eventuality.

Highspeed Group Ltd Enquiry 14

As the summer season of flower shows and garden events really gets into full swing, Perennial is now calling on colleagues from across the industry to start planning for Go Green fortnight which runs from 1 – 14 September.

Anita Bates, Director of Marketing and Development, said: “Our Go Green theme really struck a cord last year and so we’re hoping people from across the industry will be inspired to fundraise for us this September.

“I think Tony Arnold really set the tone in 2014 with his green lipstick, stockings and nail polish and we can’t wait to hear about how horticulturists plan to top that this year!

“Perennial simply couldn’t provide the range of services we

Anything goes in Go Green fortnight but if you would prefer to join an organized event rather than hold your own, Perennial has some cracking challenge events lined up with places still available.

There are plenty of ways to get involved with HortAid 2015, whether you are an individual who loves gardens or a horticulture business keen to raise funds to help colleagues around the industry.

Go Green for HortAid 2015 and help change the life of someone in crisis. Visit www.hortaid.org.uk, download a fundraising pack for ideas and information or call the team on 0800 093 8510.

Perennial Enquiry 12

Carnegie Stadium in Leeds played host to the recent Pitch Focus event - an interactive event that showcased the latest research, development and technological innovations in turf agronomy.

Designs revealed for London’s newest public park

Battersea Power Station Development has unveiled the latest images showing the redevelopment’s new public park, designed by LDA Design.

The six-acre park shows the shareholder’s commitment to the public realm and will deliver a new public park for London.

The new public park, which secured detailed planning consent earlier this year, is due to open in phases from 2017. This new green space the size of nearly three and a half full sized football pitches will play a key role in the over-arching place-making strategy and will connect the Power Station, Circus West and

Phase 6 to the River Thames, with a riverside promenade.

The park will feature large event lawns, terraced river gardens and form a highly flexible, multiprogrammable space for use throughout the year.

Rob Tincknell, CEO of BPSDC, said: “We have always worked hard with our development team to ensure that this river front, with the backdrop of the impressive Power Station was created as a public space for people to enjoy. The new designs offer space for wide ranging activities throughout the year alongside London’s prize asset, the River Thames.”

Trade association puts invasive weeds under the national spotlight

National trade body the Property Care Association (PCA) is holding a specialised conference, dedicated to the subject of nonnative invasive plants.

‘Understanding Invasive Weeds: Japanese Knotweed, Fact and Fiction’ takes place on 23 September at The Vale Resort, Hensol, Cardiff.

It is the first conference held by the PCA’s specialist Invasive Weed Control Group and is being facilitated by Richard Newis, Ashfield Japanese Knotweed (chair), Ian Graham, Complete Weed Control and Professor Max Wade, AECOM.

As well as seeking to promote a level-headed and evidence based

approach to Japanese Knotweed, there will be a focus on other invasive weeds such as Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed, which are increasingly under scrutiny in the UK, following the issue of new EU regulations, which came into effect in January.

These new regulations will empower government agencies to issue Control Orders that necessitate the management of high risk invasive weed species from specified sites, potentially including housing construction projects and neighbouring properties.

Property Care Association Enquiry 18

The park, designed by LDA Design combines industrial references, traditional park features and London street aesthetics.

Two large lawns flank a northsouth oriented central axis and a series of garden terraces run broadly to the river, forming the northern edge to the lawns.

A riverfront promenade is located at the foot of the garden terraces and there are two lawn-level ‘belvedere’ spaces at each end of the park, plus gardens to both the west and east.

LDA Design Enquiry 17

Check out the new Snickers Workwear Catalogue

The latest Snickers full colour brochure is now available free in print or as a digital edition, featuring the world’s leading range of working.

Whatever trade you’re in, there’s something for you in the Snickers range – Work Trousers, Work Jackets, Tool Vests Shirts, Underwear, Accessories and Tool Carriers.

Complimented by Snickers Profiling and Embroidery services and the UK’s most extensive range of garment sizes, Snickers’ Workwear System delivers the ultimate solution to make every man and woman’s workday easier and safer.

To get the catalogue visit the website at www.snickersworkwear.com alternatively, call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788.

Snickers Enquiry 21

Elland road boasts Toro’s sprinkler tech

Elland Road – home to Championship football club Leeds United – is now benefitting from an upgraded irrigation system, thanks to an investment in Toro R Series conversion assemblies.

The football stadium, which is the 12th largest in England, has cost-effectively upgraded 10 existing sprinklers by replacing only the sprinkler internals and keeping the existing body and piping system intact.

“We were looking to change our heads and it was cheaper to just switch the inside workings. In doing so, we’ve gained significant advantages while not having to stretch our budget,” says Kiel Barrett, Leeds United head groundsman.

Makita provides 2-piece combo kits

Makita has introduced original cordless power tool combination sets that pair with two cordless grounds maintenance, landscaping and gardening machines – a robust 13mm Combi drill twinned with either a cordless hedge trimmer or a cordless line trimmer.

Aimed at landscapers and grounds care professionals the DHP453Z 18v LXT Combi drill will punch a 13mm hole in masonry with maximum torque of 42Nm and up to 19,500 impacts per minute.

It is paired with the DUH523Z 18v hedge trimmer from the ever expanding Makita outdoor horticultural and grounds care

range. In the alternative kit, it is paired with the DUR181Z 18v line trimmer which runs up to 7,800 rpm, has a cutting span of 260mm from the bumpand-feed line cord system and can be used on its side as a very efficient lawn edge trimmer.

Makita Enquiry 23

The benefits of upgrading include TruJectory adjustment, full and part circle in the same sprinkler, the ability to clutch the nozzle base and ratchet the riser, which allows riser positioning without riser removal, and an extra 1½” pop-up height.

“The previous ones would pause at the end of the turn, flooding the

area, and didn’t turn very well, taking five to six minutes to turn 180 degrees. The new ones take just three minutes and there is no dwell point,” explains Kiel. “They’re also easy to switch; all you need is a screwdriver and 30 seconds. And it’s easy to get an arc. If I want to go to 140 degrees, I can do that by hand, where previously I’d need a screwdriver to change the angle. Now it’s much more convenient when we need to change the angle if, for example, it’s windy.”

As well as seeing clear benefits from the upgrade, Kiel also notes how pleased he’s been dealing with Lely UK, the sole distributor of Toro in the UK and Ireland.

In fact Kiel – already an investor in Toro, with several mowers used at the club – is so impressed by the conversion assemblies that he’s just ordered a further 42 for Thorp Arch; the training ground and academy base of the club.

Enquiry 22

Earthway S15 sprayer

The S15 pedestrian sprayer is engineered around EarthWay’s high performance low maintenance ground driven pump providing effortless and effective spraying, from 2 – 5 feet via the height adjustable nozzle.

Quality is evident from the build of the S15 and proven with EarthWay’s unbeaten 5 Year Limited Warranty on the chassis and structure.

The pump not only provides even, effortless pressure but also

agitates the material inside the tank, even when stationary.

Combine the 5 Year Warranty with a full range of servicing parts and spares and you can see why the S15 is the only choice for pedestrian sprayers.

For more information about the EarthWay range, please call 0845 643 9776 or visit www.earthwayspreaders.co.uk

Aston TM Turf Garlic Spray

Provides

Toro

Generations of success

My sons and I spend our time mowing, fencing, hedge cutting and shrub trimming. To get the most out of every day, we need the most up-to-date, efficient kit on the market.

That’s why I choose STIHL.

since 1996

Find out more at your local STIHL Approved Dealer or visit www.stihl.co.uk/pro

Simon Smith Landscaper

Your Community Can with This Girl Can and Proludic

Proludic has launched a new video in support of the This Girl Can initiative, showing how high quality outdoor gym facilities in parks which are freely accessible to local communities, can be used to great effect.

In particular, all women fitness session are being run with great success on the Proludic Urbanix equipment range.

This Girl Can is a national campaign run by Sport England, launched in 2014 to promote the benefits of getting more girls and women involved in exercise and sport.

In the UK, women and girls are falling short in comparison to men on completing the required amount of physical activity. The campaign aims to encourage more women and girls aged between 14 and 40 years to get involved in sport and not be ashamed, embarrassed or frightened to do so.

Proludic supports This Girl Can as it works within the play and sport sector and is well aware of

the problem. The company has been an avid campaigner for some time for a change in providing the right equipment that all demographics can enjoy and use.

In 2008, it launched the MUSA campaign (Multi Use Sports Area) to try and positively engage female teenagers into using free and local sports equipment in their parks.

Proludic believes that by educating Local Authorities and other providers in how to provide the right equipment and showing them how different sessions can be organised and run on the equipment once installed, it can help to combat this problem and make a huge difference.

To arrange for a Proludic representative to present this video and highlight how your community can get involved please email marketing@proludic.co.uk quoting ‘our community can!’.

Enquiry 29

Lake quality maintained with new Otterbine aerators

Home to many bird species, the largest of three lakes at Rockliffe Hall golf course, in County Durham, is now benefitting from four new Otterbine aerators; maintaining quality water for the course’s irrigation system and wildlife alike.

Set in 375 acres of picturesque countryside on the banks of the River Tees, Rockliffe Hall’s trio of lakes, accompanied by eight reed beds, attract a great range of water fowl; from coots and moorhens, to geese, swans and greater crested grebe.

Golf course manager Peter Newton – whose job it is to ensure water quality across the resort – says they’ve even spotted some rare breeds of late, including bearded tits and the allusive water rail.

Since the four 3hp High Volume aerators have been installed in the main lake, which also feeds the golf course irrigation system, Peter says that, as well as benefitting British wildlife, the new additions have also impressed members.

“Previously the aerators were underwater and not visible. The new ones now create a fountain effect, while simultaneously working to purify the water beneath the surface.

In addition to creating an aesthetic fit for a Championship course, as one of Otterbine’s most powerful surface spray aerators, the High Volume is ideal for managing large water masses. And at 70,000 square metres in surface area and 130,000 cubic metres capacity, Peter says Rockliffe Hall’s main lake demands a powerful aeration system.

“With the sheer volume of water, we needed something hard-

Club selects a GreenMech after recommendations

Royal Blackheath is located in South East London and was formally instituted in 1608, making it possibly the oldest golf course in the world.

The 18 hole course is set in 123 acres in the smoke free zone of Greenwich, completely surrounded by woodland. In

order to manage this ever growing problem the club was badly in need of a wood chipper and turned to GreenMech.

Simon Brittan is Deputy Course Manager and chief mechanic. “At Royal Blackheath we have a tradition of contacting other people who have used the

machine we’re interested in,” he explained.

Most recommendations came for a GreenMech chipper so the club purchased a ChipMaster 220 after considering it to be the most suited to their needs from the range offered.

Six months in and the machine has just finished a very busy winter, being used sometimes daily, but at least every other day.

Simon has not been disappointed with it: “It’s extremely powerful and does what’s expected of it –handling everything very well. Not being able to burn waste has turned into an asset with plenty of wood chippings finding good use around the club.”

GreenMech Enquiry 30

working,” says Peter. “If not, we get algae. The main lake has lots of alcoves where it tends to build up, which is not good for the irrigation system. It blocks up the nozzles, which means you don’t get a good distribution of water and it also gives off a bad smell.

“We wanted more water movement, which the new aerators have given us. We now have more gallons go through them per hour than the previous ones and there is no algae where we usually get it. When we go out on the lake in the rowing boat, the water is very clear – you can see right through to the bottom.”

Otterbine Enquiry 28

Club signs exclusive agreement

Hainault Golf Club in Chigwell, Essex has signed a three year prefered supplier agreement with Sherriff Amenity.

The agreement covers exclusive provision of fertilisers, chemicals and grass seed. The agreement will ensure that Hainault will not only benefit from volume group purchases, but will also be provided with a high level of technical support and the latest in new product technology available.

Sherriff Amenity

Enquiry 31

100% HOT WATER WEED CONTROL

Proludic

Green-tree team expands

The Green-tree team has expanded with the arrival of Anna Wilcox who joins the team as an Operations Assistant.

Anna will be assisting and supporting the team in an administrative capacity and will be helping with orders, invoicing and general customer support.

Green-tree is the soil and substrates arm of leading landscape supplier Green-tech;

producing and supplying a range of high quality top soils, amenity tree soils, roof garden substrates and bespoke soil mixes. Greentech has recently purchased a 10-acre site and has commissioned a new purpose build to house their expanding business.

Top Marks for Limagrain from Clifton College

Andy Matthews, Grounds Manager at Clifton College, has praised Limagrain UK for helping the highly regarded boarding school keep intact with its prestigious reputation. The college has state of the art facilities and boasts two sports fields; a 60 hectare site two miles from the school and a 6 hectare site situated within the school’s grounds which plays host to a number of different sports.

Andy Matthews manages both the grounds and gardens team which consists of three gardeners, six groundsmen, a mechanic and a handyman.

“I have been using Limagrain’s Action Replay on all of my dual surfaces at the college where rugby, football and cricket are played and I also use MM50 on my cricket squares. I have been very pleased with the rapid establishment of the seed and its development. The Action Replay mixture provides

excellent value for money and good strong surfaces,” he said.

Action Replay is a product of Limagrain’s Designer range of amenity grass seed mixtures. It is renowned for extremely fast germination rapidly producing a dense hard wearing sward.

Andy uses MM50 which is a fine leaved ryegrass mix. It has fast establishment and quick recovery after play on his cricket squares which along with its high wear tolerance and excellent all round turf quality makes it an ideal mix for cricket. Both the MM50 and Action Replay mixtures have the added bonus of being treated with HEADSTART GOLD. This user friendly, non-toxic treatment can help grass get off to a great start and is perfect for enhancing performance on grass seed coatings for sports fields, golf courses, lawns and amenity turf.

Limagrain Enquiry 34

Green-tree Enquiry 33

Wet

driveways

A prestige stone driveway was created using 100mm rumbled magma granite setts that were securely jointed by pointing with GftK’s slurry applied, selfcompacting and non-staining, vdw 850 jointing mortar from NCC Streetscape.

This unique material is the ‘state-of-the-art’ and market leader in stone paving jointing today and was selected for this project by natural stone specialists, PDG Groundworks because it provides extremely strong and durable joint installations, especially for driveways and roads.

The vdw 850 jointing mortar is capable of accommodating frequent and heavy vehicle traffic loads and in service also prevents weed growth or boring

The vdw 850 jointing mortar also

has

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 37

Fibresand International lays firm foundations, naturally

Fibresand International is based and operates in the United Kingdom and extensively internationally and has been successfully manufacturing the professional and quality range of Fibresand products for over 25 years.

With a wealth of knowledge of surface solution construction, sand technology and manufacturing processes, FSI is well equipped to provide quality solutions to a wide variety of applications within the Landscaping/Amenity and Construction Industry with the Fibresand and TraffiPave products.

FSI can provide a choice of a traditional sand based surface, gravel/grass grids or a natural green solution.

Researched by the world famous Cranfield University, endorsed by the United Kingdom Fire and Rescue service and used extensively in fire access roads, car parking and high traffic pedestrianised areas throughout the world, Fibresand is a proven system capable of repeatedly handling wheel loads of up to 20 tonnes in severe weather conditions.

An insistence on inert, environmentally safe

components, and being virtually undetectable once installed, means Fibresand becomes the natural choice for environmentally sensitive projects where erosion through foot or vehicle use is a constant dilemma.

Rot-proof polymer fibres in the root zone assist the growth of healthy grass through acting as conduits for air and water to a greater depth thereby drawing the roots downwards. Fertilisers, weed killers and normal turf maintenance techniques have no adverse effect on the fibres. These properties contribute towards a genuine green amenity surface.

Fibresand's immense strength is derived from the interaction of the sand grains and millions of fibres present in the surface, making Fibresand capable of handling heavy traffic immediately after installation.

This added strength and stability also allows Fibresand rootzone to maintain steeper slopes and the fibres assist in resistance to erosion, allowing creative architects to exceed their normal design parameters and produce some stunning effects.

Fibresand Enquiry 38

GET READY TO

The national event for managing and maintaining sports pitches, parks, estates, grounds and landscapes has got even better

NEW SALTEX brings you: New exhibition format new exhibitors, products and innovation new enhanced educational seminar programme free expert advice - all under one roof - plus, for the first time, the IOG Awards

Register today for your FREE place

Design with the Elements seating range from Furnitubes

The Elements range has proved a popular choice for landscape schemes, the range designed by Furnitube’s in-house design team puts the customer firmly in control of the design.

The chassis is at the heart of the Elements seat with two options available, 12 timber slat options and six support styles. Further options include with or without backrests, anti – skate devices that can be bolted down to the chassis

Bright prospects for Metro Dome litter bins

Leafield Environmental is launching a new, economy Dome Top Metro litter bin that it claims is ideal for schools, colleges, commercial businesses and leisure use. Combining contemporary design with rugged practicality and great value from £135. The black bin body, with its ‘tidyman’ logo is made from 100% recycled polyethylene and the bright eye catching lids come in red, lime green, grey, blue and dark green to suit your preference. Used with a plastic sack and the internal sack retention device the bin has a capacity of 120 litres and 100 litres when used with an internal liner. For more information email: comms@leafieldenvironmental.com, telephone 01225 816541 or go to www.leafieldrecycle.com

Leafield Environmental Enquiry 43

UK’s first solar barrier kits unveiled

Green Gate Access Systems, has launched the UK’s first solarpowered car park barrier systems. The kits are manufactured by Italian company, O&O, with Green Gate Access Systems the UK importer.

The O&O Up & Down barriers are perfect for operation from solar-power where a green solution is required or a mains supply is not readily available. Often, providing power is the most expensive part of fitting an access control barrier, but the solar option allows security to be fitted to the most remote locations.

The standard solar panel will operate the barrier up to 100 times a day and can be upgraded to 950 operations – in a British winter. The solar systems also assume each barrier will be fitted with a GSM intercom and exit loop as standard and are rated to cover this in the solar calculations.

Managing Director, Neil Sampson, said: “Having already proved their worth with clients such as BT, DHL and the NHS, they are perfect in remote or shared power locations and can be upgraded to suit even the busiest entrance.

“Supplied with everything that’s required, including solar panels and a four year warranty, the kits are a massive cost saving when mains is more than 50 metres away.

“We have continued our solar expertise into our range of solar gate automation with a section of ram and underground automation with 10 year warranties that can be operated up to 200 times, per winter day.”

Green Gate Access Systems Enquiry

Conservation area church improves access with Brett

Expert guidance and paving materials from Brett Landscaping have ensured that the entrance to a medieval church in the town of Sedgefield, County Durham has been appropriately adapted to improve the access needs of wheelchair users and pedestrians.

Originally built in the 13th century and protected by conservation area covenants, the hard landscaping of village green at the entrance to St. Edmund's Church was in need of replacement setts, as the traditional quarried stone surface originally in place had become

worn and uneven – causing access issues for wheelchair users, parents and carers with pushchairs, and pedestrians.

Leaving the paving in its existing condition was not an option; however, any improvement works undertaken on the village green needed to be in keeping with the surroundings – a requirement which led the Environment Committee for Sedgefield Town Council to research the most appropriate solutions.

The Council’s Environmental Committee approved the use of

430m2 of Alpha Antique Burnt Oak & Charcoal, supported using a mixed pattern of Charcoal edging. Adding to its service, Brett provided a full design of the area being repaved together with appropriate laying details. Suitable pack quantities were also suggested and purposefully calculated to the nearest pack, to reduce waste and tighten costs. With installation completed and the paving work now in full use, the Town Council comment how pleased they are with the finished result.

Brett Landscaping Enquiry 47

All weather jointing mortar for stone circle driveway

A fabulous feature driveway was designed with concentric circles of Black Limestone and Raj Green Sandstone setts surrounded by Indian Sandstone slabs.

The paving was designed to be durable and attractive for many years and to accommodate regular large 4x4’s and other traffic, including visiting delivery vehicles up to 20 Tonnes.

Therefore the designer and paving contractor selected GftK’s vdw 800 paving joint mortar for all of the pointing works. This unique epoxy resin bound sand based paving joint mortar from NCC Streetscape is applied on to pre-dampened surfaces and rinsed with additional water; therefore it is not necessary to wait for areas to dry out after wet and rainy weather.

It is easily slurry applied using a squeegee and self-compacts into

the joints, and then the surface is simply rinsed brushed off – job done.

Also by using GftK’s vdw 800 the jointing work could be completed quickly and enable

access to the property for other finishing trades, without delays due to the cold, wet and damp weather that was forecast.

New surface gets to grips with slips on external steps

Thermapply, a unique non-slip surface application specifically designed to eliminate slips, trips and falls at outdoor public and commercial spaces is now available.

The product, which is manufactured in the UK by Thermedia, has been developed in response to the general state of concrete, tarmac and chequerplate surfaces and directly addresses these slip issues.

It has been developed specifically for stairs and walkways in high traffic areas and offers a tailored, ‘full step’ anti-slip solution which has been SATRA certificated to withstand one million footfalls.

In addition, Thermapply is backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee and conforms to BS EN1824.

When used in stadia and venues the product will allow any stadium to be fully compliant with recommendations made by the DDA, Access for All, Sport England, FSIF (Football Stadia Improvement Fund) and the Green Guide (Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds) and following these trials, it is now installed in venues around the country.

Thermapply’s unique composition is thermoformed insitu, cooling to a solid, non-porous state that will retain

its non-slip properties. This is because the infused aggregate runs throughout the depth of the thermoplastic material, ensuring that it remains non-slip and maintains both its looks and safety properties for at least the next decade.

Should a venue wish to capitalise on its floor space or step space, Thermapply allows surface branding to be incorporated, enabling customers to insert corporate logos, messaging, instructions or numbers to the step edging or around the step area.

Thermedia

Aitkens’ Award Ultima is top of the list at Trent Bridge

Steve Birks, head groundsman at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, is still delighted with the effects of Award Ultima fertiliser two years after he first started using it at the home of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club.

Steve and his team of eight prepare the Trent Bridge turf for the players of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, as well as international

cricketers for Test and One-day international matches.

The product was recommended to him by Aitkens sales manager, Peter Fell and since the first application has become one of the most important products on this head groundsman’s list.

The impact on colour and root density has been particularly

pleasing for Steve, who has been at Trent Bridge since 1997, after starting off as a 16-year-old at Derbyshire.

As well as having a profound difference on the colour and root depth, Ultima can also help give assured release irrespective of climatic conditions using it’s unique four-tier nitrogen combination along with providing a longer nutrient

release pattern over a 12 week period.

Steve has also noticed a massive reduction in disease since using Ultima, which he applies all year round, with the effects easy to see at all times.

Aitkens Enquiry 51

Everris provides quality and assurance at Leicester

The pitch at Leicester City’s impressive King Power stadium has exceeded Premiership standards all season with head groundsman John Ledwidge saying his relationship with key supplier Everris as being a major factor.

As part of his programme, John uses Sierrablen products as a base feed every eight weeks and Greenmaster, either a 12-0-12 or a 7-0-14, every two weeks at half rate.

As indispensable elements of John’s programme, it is easy to see why he and so many other Premier League groundsmen are so fond of these two products.

Packed with Everris’ exclusive controlled release coating technologies, Sierrablen products have been designed to meet the grass plant’s specific requirements. This controlled release technology prevents the leaching of the nutrients and guarantees a longer lasting effect with no excessive flushes of soft-growth. The highquality controlled release fertiliser also saves time and money, as one simple application can provide nutrition for up to nine months.

Everris’ Greenmaster fertiliser range, well known for its delivery of high-quality fine turf nutrition has been trusted by turf managers for decades and John is particularly impressed with its rapid action.

“We specifically use Greenmaster for its granular evenness and the way it’s taken up by the plant in such quick form,” he explains. “It really does help us get the best results.

“We try and keep the nutrition levels consistent throughout the year and we really think that these products help deliver not only the nutrition that the plant needs but also that aesthetic greenness that is expected of the Premier League as well as the standards that are expected from the players and the staff.”

Fertiliser applications for late summer and early autumn

Late summer, early autumn is the time for all turf managers to plan for the upcoming winter and spring and to ensure plant health during these difficult climatic conditions and high usage periods. Three key areas to be considered are root health, length and mass, plant durability and disease resistance.

Root development is greatly reduced in summer, and die back may have occurred in high

temperatures. Reduced rooting will affect nutrient uptake on all surfaces, and surface stability on winter sports pitches. Fertilisers that contain phosphate will encourage root development, aid germination and establishment of any late seeding projects.

Fertilizers that contain Enhanced Root Developer (ERD), humic acids and plant growth hormones work exceptionally well in the early autumn, improving root mass by more than 21% and root

length by more than 32%. Calcium is essential for cell division and cell wall formation, and if levels aren’t at their optimum in autumn, plants will be more susceptible to disease outbreaks. Disease tolerance is also improved by applications of potassium and iron.

Rigby Taylor has a number of fertiliser analyses that address some or all of these key areas.

Con-Vert 12-5-20+2MgO+4CaO

or Con-Vert 15-515+2MgO+4CaO contain phosphate for root development, high potassium for plant durability and hardiness, and calcium for reduced disease stress.

Microlite Activ-8 8-016+2Mg+4Fe and 6-0-24+2Fe both contain Activate ERD, unique to RT. This will improve nutrient uptake and stability. PolyPro 15-0-25 contains polymer coated potassium (50%

of total K), giving controlled release in excess of 16 weeks, which will improve wear tolerance and reduce disease pressure. Premier HG 3-3-32+Te and 12-3-24+Te contain Kali Vinasse, an organic source of potassium, with slow release properties improving wear tolerance, disease resistance and microbial activity.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 53

Everris

Wessex first at the finish

Dennis Premier signals new ambitions for club

Margate, the birthplace of the British seaside is undergoing something of a renaissance and the town is set to boom.

So too is the town’s football club after a new owner injected new ambitions into the team; starting with improving turf maintenance equipment with the purchase a Dennis Premier.

new machine I didn’t even look at any other mowers – I was set on Dennis.

The first of its type, the Wessex CRX MultiCut mower started a rotary revolution at the beginning of the year.

Six months down the line there is exceptional demand for the new concept, say Wessex, with the CRX finding homes with local authorities, contractors and groundscare professionals.

Combining a professional roller mower with full width rollers front and rear, a finishing mower with four fully castoring wheels, or a combination of the two, may seem like a bold move but the CRX MultiCut is proving to be a worthy addition to the Wessex ProLine range of roller mowers. A further contribution to this popularity is the fact the CRX

mowers can be front or rear mounted thanks to a reversible linkage and they can be side or rear discharge by altering the baffles beneath the deck and adding a side delivery chute. There are also the options of mulching and collecting.

As a finishing mower the high blade tip speed gives a superb cut with overlapping rotors giving a hundred percent coverage, and the castoring wheels provide exceptional manoeuvrability.

The CRX MultiCut comes in 1.5m, 1.8m and 2.4 m working widths with simple height adjustment.

Wessex International Enquiry 57

Graham Ives has been the head groundsman at Margate for four years now and when the new owner came in he seized the opportunity to purchase new turf maintenance machinery.

“I was fortunate in the sense that one of the owner’s first decisions was to upgrade the machinery,” he said. “When I was presented with the opportunity to choose a

“I’ve always used Dennis machinery, whether it be on bowls greens, cricket wickets or football pitches. We went for the Dennis Premier model because a lot of Premier League and Football league clubs use them so we know that they are used professionally at a high level.”

With an impressive 30” (76cm) or 36” (91cm) working width, groundsmen praise the robust Premier model for being highly manoeuvrable and comfortable to operate. Its six or eight bladed cutting cylinder is also extremely durable, providing a precise cut with very little maintenance.

Two wheel tractors

Tracmaster’s new addition to its two-wheel tractor range is the 660HY WS Commander, BCS’ first hydrostatic pedestrian machine.

The engines fitted include a Honda GX390 Alps 11.7 HP petrol engine, a Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 16 HP two-cylinder petrol engine and a Yanmar LN100 10 HP diesel engine prepared for use on steep slopes.

“This versatile machine is capable of many different tasks in a range of environments, particularly conservation areas, and can be fitted with a wide range of attachments, including cutter bars, heavy-duty mowers and lawn mowers,” comments Alex Pitt, Managing Director at Tracmaster.

Tracmaster Enquiry 58

“It really has made a major improvement to the pitch, the handles and the pully system on the side makes it so easy to turn; which I feel is the Premier’s best featureyou just pull the handle and it turns virtually on its own,” adds Graham.

“Presentation is very important to me and the Premier is great for

striping; it’s got the lovely heavy roller so it stripes the pitch beautifully. Everything about it is very slick; it’s the best machine I’ve used and the pitch looks immaculate.”

Dennis Enquiry 56

Take the brush with the smooth

Weeds and stubborn long grasses stand no chance against the Little Wonder Hydro BRC-26 brushcutter, available from Schiller Grounds Care.

Whilst it’s rugged and built for a tough life it’s also smooth with the hydrostatic drive making it easy to operate and less fatiguing for the user. That translates to higher productivity and with a forward speed up to

4.2mph/6.7kmh and 1.7mph/2.7kmh in reverse you can quickly cut through the work. The mower blade spindle is supported top and bottom with sealed ball bearings inside a machined steel hub, a heavy-duty welded outer flange and grease fitting to prevent moisture ingress.

Enquiry 59

Schiller Grounds Care

A range of mowers to suit all requirements

Lloyds and Co of Letchworth manufactures the superb range of Paladin pedestrian and Leda gang mowers.

Any turf professional responsible for the maintenance and general upkeep of sports surfaces, including those used for golf, rugby, football, cricket, tennis and bowls, can benefit from owning a Lloyds machine.

The Paladin brand is known across the world and holds an enviable reputation for ease of operation and robust construction. All of the products are of excellent quality and retain their simplistic but effective engineering which always delivers outstanding performance and trouble free service.

There are several models available; the Paladin, Paladin Dual and the Paladin TG in two widths of 21”(533mm) and 24”(610mm).

Lloyds Paladin Dual has been developed to give the best finish with an infinitely variable adjustment to facilitate the perfect cut.

Lloyds Paladin TG has all the features and performance of the Paladin but with the added benefit of a groomer for conditioning the turf and improving its playability. The groomer is fitted closely between the cutting cylinder and the grooved front roller and encourages healthy growth by removing the lateral grasses and other debris.

Lloyds Leda Gang Mowers range from combinations of the Standard units with 190mm diameter and 760mm wide cylinders, or Lloyds Leda Giant units with 254mm diameter cylinders 760mm long. In outfits of Trio, Quintuple and Septuple.

Lloyds & Co. Enquiry 63

EGO’s range goes head to head with petrol

Environmental issues will play centre stage as the newest entrant to the cordless sector announces that its 56volt battery powered range is going head to head with petrol equivalents.

EGO’s lawnmowers were first launched in the USA at the start of the 2014 season and are now one of the two top selling cordless brands in the whole of North America.

Prices of the lithium-ion battery powered range are competitively pitched against petrol powered equivalents and comparative cordless products already on the market.

Full UK distribution is assured as EGO had agreed sole distribution

terms with the market leading Henton & Chattell which has more than 1,500 dealers nationwide.

Batteries are totally interchangeable across the products in the range and will fully recharge from flat in just 30 minutes with the “infinity charger”. The lawnmower will cut up to 800m2 of grass on just one charge and the life expectancy of the batteries is over 1000 recharges – sufficient for more than ten years of work for the average sized garden.

EGO Enquiry 62

Cub Cadet Triloy helps with trials success

The Blenheim Horse Trials, a firm fixture in the eventing calendar since 1990, is now only a few weeks away, and work is ramping up to get the venue ready for the field of world-class competitors and thousands of spectators.

Once the course is cut, it's all about the details, and trickier areas around the jumps, or on the various steep-sided mounds can only be reached with a smaller machine

The team use the Cub Cadet Triloy self-propelled pedestrian mower CC53SPBEV, and are full of

praise for it: light and manoeuvrable, and with variable speed control, it makes short work of any task. Most importantly, the electric starter is easy and reliable; making sure the Triloy is ready to go when they are!

Cub Cadet Garden Machinery is only sold through specially selected dealers who are dedicated to providing the best before and after sales service.

Cub Cadet Enquiry 64

Reform Metrac H5X goes to Kingston Lacy

Supplied by Loxston Groundcare, the National Trust property Kingston Lacy has taken delivery of a 59hp, 4 cylinder diesel powered Hydrostatic Reform Metrac H5X tractor.

Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Reform and Muthing flail ranges says: “The Metrac H5X is a critically safe machine; manoeuvrable, versatile and wellsuited to working on slopes and for the widest range of grounds maintenance tasks.

“We are certainly seeing an increase in demand based on their multi-functionality and lifetime cost benefits. The balanced weight distribution and crab steer function are the ideal

combination to enable the operator to work safely at angles of up to 45 degrees.

“The suspended front axle ensures all four wheels provide permanent ground contact even on uneven terrain.

“Additionally an inching pedal means the operator can work around trees and shrubs, with confidence and depending on the task, selection can be made between four wheel, front wheel, rear wheel or continuously adjustable crab steering mode.”

Council makes big savings with all-new Toro fleet

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has invested in Toro for the first time as a full mowers replacement programme gets underway.

In a substantial £470,000 deal with Toro distributor Lely UK and Toro dealer the Russell Group, the local authority has taken delivery of 18 new Toro machines; 12 Toro LT3340s, a heavy-duty triple cylinder mower, and six Toro Groundsmaster 3400 high performance rotary mowers.

The delivery marks the start of a four-year supply agreement, during which the Council will take on an additional 12 machines, making 30 in total.

Prior to this deal, Andy says that the Council had a couple of Toro machines out on hire throughout the summer last year, and received excellent feedback from staff using them.

Along with high quality and positive staff feedback, Andy adds that financial savings were equally important in the decision-making process. With local authorities facing increasing pressure to save money and increase efficiency, investment in good machinery is imperative for future plans.

Allett’s new Stadium Mower finds fans

Allett Mowers introduced their new RM 34 Stadium Mower, featuring a 34” (86cm) full width rear roller for strong stripes, during the final months of 2014.

Developed in conjunction with leading groundsmen, it caused a stir in tests and has generated a great deal of interest since its official launch.

It has twin, contra-rotating blades for central collection and filling a 90 litre grassbag at the centre of the deck. The mower creates an ultra-high vacuum for debris

collection while the high tip speed of the blades ensures the ultimate cutting quality.

There is micro height adjustment between 15mm and 75mm for exact blade cut and a 5 gear speed selection for precise control. Solid to look at, substantial to use, the RM 34 is actually 55kg lighter than an Allett Buffalo cylinder mower. There is also an optional fixed strip brush available for the machine.

Allet Mowers Enquiry 67

Toro Enquiry 69

Simon Richard Enquiry 68

Turf maintenance in the Bavarian mountains

Situated in the picturesque Ruhpolding Valley, just three minutes from the town centre, Golf Club Ruhpolding, has been a loyal Jacobsen customer since 1992.

They currently operate four UKbuilt Jacobsen Fairway 405 large area cylinder mowers for maintaining their fairways and semi-rough.

Richard Jany, head greenkeeper, said: “We maintain our fairways

at 15mm, the semi-rough at 33mm and the rough at 75mm. The power of 405 engine is superior to competitor’s equivalent mowers, especially when it comes to climbing slopes, which is obviously very important to us in this location. The quality of cut is very good and it is very comfortable for the greenkeeper.”

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 73

Walk or ride with a SCAG from STM

One of the most popular selling machines from STM in recent months has been The V-Ride unit from SCAG.

It is classed as a stand-on mower; no seat, but there is a plate on the back that you can either lift out of the way and operate the machine as a walk-behind, or stand on the plate and ride-on.

Feedback has been genuinely positive about how successful this arrangement is in practice. The stand-on feature makes it less

fatiguing for the operator on larger cut areas – backed up by the ease of manoeuvring a pedestrian machine for the more intricate areas.

A further advantage is that, with the stand-on plate in place, an operator gets an enhanced view of the working area. The machines are available with four cut-width sizes: 36, 48, 52 and 61inches.

Simon Tullet Machinery Enquiry 74

Etesia UK launches two new pedestrian models

Etesia has launched two new professional pedestrian rotary mowers – the PHCT and PHCS PRO 46 Evolution models.

The two new models offer extreme versatility with the

ability to cut, collect and mulch without the need for an accessory. Users will be capable of mowing with or without collection in all conditions as well as undertake high-quality mulching.

Growing demand for radio controlled solutions

With an ever increasing awareness of the dangers associated with mowing sloping ground, McMurtry Ltd have witnessed a large increase in interest in its UK built radio controlled hybrid mowers.

Customers including local authorities, highway contractors,national heritage groups and private estates have all benefited from the minimisation of risk to personnel when maintaining sloping or inaccessible ground.

Slips, trips and falls are dramatically reduced and exposure to hand/arm vibrations eliminated.

Easy to operate and maintain, McMurtry's RC-01 and RC-02 mowers offer a solution to groundcare professionals concerned about safety and productivity.

McMurtry Ltd Enquiry 76

Built upon the DUOCUT concept of combining 100% collection and 100% mulching decks together, the new PRO 46 models deliver high performance without compromising the results of either of the functions. By crushing the grass finely, even if it is long and wet, both models excel in their collection abilities and the grass box is always filled to capacity.

With no tool or blade change necessary; simply place the removable insert under the deck if you want to mulch and remove the insert if you prefer to mowwith or without collection. The smooth surfaced insert completes the shape of the deck and enables the grass to move easily for superior mulching.

Both the PHCT and PHCS have a cutting width of 46cm with seven easily adjustable cutting heights ranging from 28-85mm. Both come complete with a grass box capacity of 56 litres.

Fitted with a powerful 5HP Honda engine, the PHCT is a single speed model and the PHCS is a push model; providing the operator with the choice according to their preference. As with all Etesia’s rotary mowers, the PHCT and PHCS offer low vibrations with ‘soft grip’ handle bars which can fold for easy transportation.

UK Enquiry 75

100% HOT WATER WEED CONTROL

Etesia

ATT INFiNiSystem helps club switch to hand mowing

The greenkeeping team at Luxembourg’s Grand Ducal Golf Club were looking to switch over to hand mowing as the greens needed some TLC and handcutting would reduce the stress on the new plants.

Leslie Cain, Head Greenkeeper, saw ATT’s INFiNiSystem on The Grass Group’s stand at BTME and after a demo day in Belgium he was hooked.

“It’s so versatile in that you could change the cutting unit over to grooming or scarifying or other uses,” he explains. “The quality

of the machine is fantastic and once it is all set up the quality of cut and the overall usability is fantastic. A green takes between 15 and 20 minutes to cut.”

The club purchased a 22” INFiNiSystem with a 11 blade SMARTCut cassette and a SMARTUltraGroomer cassette, powered by an engine generator as noise isn’t an issue – had it been they would have gone for the battery model. More purchases are in the pipeline.

ATT Enquiry 79

New medium platform mowers from Ransomes Jacobsen

Ransomes Jacobsen, the manufacturer of commercial mowing equipment, has launched the next two machines in a series of new mowers manufactured at their European headquarters in Ipswich.

Primarily targeted at the municipal sector, the MP495/MP655 range provides yet more options from a single design platform and are replacements for the Ransomes Commander, the stalwart of municipal wide area cylinder mowers launched back in 1993.

Following on from the launch of the MP493 and MP653 wide area rotary mowers last autumn, these

new five unit cylinder mowers are powered by the same 49hp and 65hp Kubota diesel engines and use a standard platform, enhancing the commonality between each machine for ease of production, operator use and maintenance.

The option of two engines enables the end user to maximise productivity by selecting their cutting parameters and then appropriately matching them to engine power, environmental legislation, fuel economy and fitting of additional accessories such as cabs.

The use of lightweight, high strength steel results in a

significant reduction in gross weight which contributes to greater fuel savings, a reduction in trailer weight requirements and reduced ground pressure.

The choice of cutting units remains with Magna 250 fixed head cylinders for general maintenance work and Sport 200 fixed and floating head cylinders for high quality turf maintenance.

The rear outer cutting units fold up and rearwards for transport providing excellent sideways visibility for the operator when driving on the road and distributes weight for improved stability and ride quality. The front units also lift and fold providing a transport width of just 1.89 metres.

Ransomes Jacobsen

Enquiry 80

Grillo emphasis quality throughout range

Grillo produce a wide range of domestic and professional grass cutting machinery with the emphasis on quality and ease of use.

The range encompasses walk behind rough cutters, ride on bank mowers plus out-front mowers with collection.

As well as being acknowledged for its premium build quality,

the Grillo professional outfront mowers set the industry standard for not only the excellent finish which they produce but perhaps more importantly their unsurpassed collection in wet UK conditions.

Grillo

Enquiry 81

Pellenc launches first professional lawnmower

Pellenc has launched their first professional lawnmower – the Rasion which is available in push and self-propelled options and offers impeccable cutting quality for all types of mowing work undertaken by landscapers and local authorities.

Thanks to its environmentallyfriendly credentials, the Rasion produces less noise than conventional petrol-powered mowers meaning users can work in noise sensitive areas at any time of day.

With no fuel management or consumption, zero CO² emissions and made from recyclable materials; this is a pedestrian mower of the future.

A new high efficiency motor of 93% for reduced energy consumption, a dual blade for a finer, more precise cut optimise the mowing time. Power comes from an ULiB 1100 Pellenc battery of 2000W.

Electronic speed setting of the blades from 3000 to 5000rpm on

the handle bars, a cutting width of 60cm, 70 litre grass box capacity and two front swivel wheels ensure the Rasion is ultramanoeuvrable. Weighing less than 20kgs and folding handlebars means that transportation between sites is effortless.

As with all other Pellenc products, the Rasion uses the ultra-high capacity technology of the Pellenc lithium battery and guarantees non-polluting, odourless operation with quick start-up and up to one day battery life.

The Pellenc ULB battery range is designed for professional tool use. Pellenc is the only professional tool manufacturer to offer a whole range of tools that operate with ultra-high capacity multipurpose batteries.

All Pellenc tools now come with a comprehensive three year commercial warranty as standard. Pellenc is sold exclusively in the UK by Etesia UK.

Etesia Enquiry

Kings Ely chooses Progressive TDR15

King’s Ely was initially established to educate the boy choristers of Ely Cathedral over 1,000 years ago.

Today it is a vibrant and dynamic co-educational school that, within its 70 acres, has over 35 acres of sports grounds/pitches.

In October 2014 they took delivery of a Progressive TDR15 tri-deck roller mower from The Grass Group. Will Temple is Grounds and Gardens Manager and Chris Young is Head Groundsman. They chose the Progressive because of its power, speed, quality of cut, finish, maintenance and the overall cost effectiveness.

Maintenance was a big factor but as the Progressive has few gearboxes, and is belt driven, maintenance is easier than the Major they had before, making it a big saver in time and cost.

Chris takes up the story: “We hadn’t done a lot of research but we had looked at it online and watched some videos and could see it was an impressive piece of kit. Also, we’d also seen other schools had purchased the Progressive from good write-ups in the press so all in all it certainly looked good to us. After the relatively short demo we were confident in the machine and went ahead with the purchase.”

King’s Ely specified the optional stabilising kit (now fitted as standard) as they would be doing quite a lot of road travelling with the machine. The two side arms could have a bit of movement in them when going over speed bumps and could lead to damage. The stabilising kit fixes that.

The Grass Group Enquiry 83

84

T4 Cruiser proves its versatility

The Gianni Ferrari T4 Cruiser has proven to be the pinnacle of versatility for Lucy Gillie, Helix Park Supervisor, who is in charge of the 350-hectare site in Falkirk.

The machine was sold to the Falkirk Community Trust and has been used across the site to help maintain the paths, roads and park spaces within Helix Park.

With such varied grass areas to maintain it was important that Lucy Gillie and her team of ten had a machine that could be used freely throughout the park and she explains the Gianni Ferrari T4 Cruiser has been exactly what they needed.

She said: “The T4 Cruiser is great because we can use it throughout the park on all of our different grass areas due to the variety of cutting heads. We generally use it for cutting, collecting and removing thatch.”

The vast area requires constant upkeep from Lucy Gillie and her team and this brings out the best in the Gianni Ferrari T4 Cruiser. “It gets used a lot when the public are in the park so the safety features are a big advantage and it’s important that the machine looks good for when the visitors are there.”

“The size of the collection tank is also brilliant because we don’t have to empty all of the time meaning we can get more work done around the site.

“The height of the machine is also good when it comes to getting under tree’s because we don’t catch any of the branches and it’s just another thing that

McConnel launches Telescopic-VFR armset

A major advance in comfort, precision and safety, TelescopicVariable Forward Reach (Tele-VFR) from McConnel enables operators to position the flailhead in front of the cab (see above) boosting visibility and reducing user fatigue.

The new armset takes the comfort and control offered by McConnel’s proven VFR technology and combines these qualities with the versatility of a telescopic extension, which can also be retracted for added manoeuvrability when working in confined spaces.

Conventional arms extend behind the cab resulting in operators having to make a series of visual adjustments from front to rear as the operator checks the road ahead, then breaks off to check the performance of the flailhead.

TELE-VFR takes full advantage of the 120-degree focal range of the human eye, allowing operators to flick simultaneously back and forth from the road to the flailhead’s position alongside the cab without compromising safety.

Conventional reach arms are not designed for cutting around obstacles such as road signs, trees, and therefore struggle to make a tidy cut without being forced into a series of timeconsuming and potentially hazardous manoeuvres.

By enabling an extended forward reach of up to 2.39m, TELE-VFR offers over 400% increase in the size of the cutting area, boosting efficiency and productivity and enabling the arm to cut behind obstacles.

makes

the

machine

so much easier to use around the park.”

Gianni Ferrari Enquiry 87

McConnel Enquiry 88

Spray time with Wessex

Once the weeds start appearing you want to deal with them quickly and efficiently and an ATV mounted sprayer is the choice method for many landscapers, groundsmen and farmers.

Accuracy is important, especially where spraying is adjacent to conservation areas for example, and durability in your sprayer is paramount.

One of the most popular choices in mounted sprayers are the

Wessex SS Sprayers with their heavy-duty 55 litre rotomoulded tanks and a variety of pump options to suit the width of boom.

The design is clever, with standard and offset nozzles and anti-drop valves giving an even spray of chemicals from 1.5m to 5m and you can choose from five different booms and three pump sizes. One particularly important feature is that Wessex SS Sprayer booms are kept within the width of the ATV, so there is no snagging on posts,

trees or other objects, and the boom height is adjustable.

An in-line suction filter and gauze on the pipe are designed to prevent pump contamination. All models come with a hand lance and hose as standard for spot spraying and there’s a handy lance clip to hold the lance securely when it’s not in use.

A brass quick-release fitting lets you easily change from boom to lance spraying. The unit itself has

built-in lifting handles so it’s easily mounted onto the ATV where it is held in place with the straps kept in position in moulded strap guides.

The Whale pump used in the sprayers is said to be twenty percent more efficient on the draw from the battery than other types of pump and the tough, rotomoulded tank is easy to clean. All of which makes life that bit easier.

Wessex International Enquiry 90

Diesel UTVs unveiled by Kioti

Built on an extended Mechron 2210 chassis the new 2230 utility vehicle model, available in the UK from RECO, is equipped with the same impressive features as found on current models.

The same class leading ground clearance and power steering feature as standard and the 2230 includes a large 500kg capacity cargo box that is 300mm longer than the standard box.

To extend the appeal of the Mechron range to a wider market Kioti are also launching a 4 seat diesel Mechron 2240 UTV. This has been designed to carry 4 passengers comfortably and carry a full load at the same time.

The Mechron 2240 UTV has been designed with front and back ‘walk-through’ design to

offer plenty of leg room for the operator and passengers.

The rear cargo box is the same as on the 2200/2100 models, with a weight capacity of 300kg. A good feature on this new 2240 model is the large under seat storage box that is split into different “handy” sized sections.

Due to the longer chassis the frame rails have been double stacked for additional strength. It has undergone prolonged high intensity testing in the US without any reports of chassis failure or damage. Hydraulic Power steering is included as standard CVT Hi + Low gear plus 2 or 4 wheel drive can be selected.

RECO Enquiry

Jacobsen’s Truckster XD is a heavy-duty

Jacobsen’s Truckster XD heavyduty utility vehicle serves as a replacement for the venerable Cushman Turf-Truckster.

The Truckster XD sets a new standard for capacity, power, strength and comfort. It boasts a massive, class-leading 1,610 Kg standard payload capacity, supported by the toughest bed in the industry, with steel up to 75%

thicker than comparable boxes and 20% more volume.

Two class-leading power units are available: the diesel version, more commonly used throughout Europe, with 24.8 hp and 71.5 nm of torque and the petrol model, which is used predominantly in the Americas and Asia-Pacific, providing 32.5 hp and 70 nm of torque.

The new Truckster XD was built to handle the daily rigours on the golf course, therefore the Jacobsen engineers have put a priority on comfort, giving the operator area 25% more room than the competition.

There are two main goals with this new vehicle: to make turf managers’ jobs easier and to satisfy their unmet needs.

Following the official launch at the Golf Industry Show, the first units will be available in the UK and Europe in the second half of 2015. A full range of accessories and attachments will also be available with kits enabling the retrofitting of existing and competitor equipment.

Ransomes Jacobsen

Enquiry 92

91

Polaris offers the best of all worlds

Polaris believes there really is not a debate about the virtues of its own side by side utility vehicle versus the ubiquitous quad bike or ride-on ATV – it is a case of horses for courses.

Coming from the makers of the Sportsman, one of the biggest selling quads of all time, it starts to make sense when you compare the two types of vehicle.

The ride-on ATV is a go anywhere vehicle that became the machine of choice for groundsmen, landscapers, foresters and anyone needing to go places off road where their 4x4 pick up will damage the ground and come to a halt. Today’s ATV is a sophisticated and no less capable mode of 4x4 transport, performing its daily

tasks to the satisfaction of the millions whose work calls for its off-road capabilities.

Then along came the side by side or UTV, a utility vehicle to facilitate carrying passengers in relative comfort, while offering similar off-road capabilities to its ATV cousins: in the case of Polaris, Independent Rear Suspension coupled with the legendary Polaris ride and handling, with loads of suspension travel, and massive pulling power.

A Polaris Ranger ETX, for example, matches many of the equivalent ATVs on the market in terms of cost and power as well as class leading towing and payload capacities. A 31hp engine with Electronic Fuel

Injection provides fuel economy with 1,500 lbs (680kg) towing capacity.

It has 1,000 lbs (454kg) payload capacity and a rear box with gasassisted dumping that carries up to 500 lbs (227kg) of materials or equipment. Ideal for a two person team to get about the park or estate with everything they need on board.

A Rollover Protection System for safety protection and the facility to fit the latest Lock & Ride ProFit cab system turns the Ranger ETX into an all-weather off-road vehicle to provide a degree of comfort simply not available with an ATV.

Polaris Enquiry 95

Heavy duty fits

Built to handle the toughest of tasks, Toro’s Workman HD Series of heavy-duty utility vehicles comprises two-wheel and fourwheel-drive diesel options.

The Workman HDX-D model offers the highest total carrying load in the industry together with

a towing capacity of up to 1588kg.

The HD Series also features the ibeam shaped DeDion rear axle. Additional features include an elevating, scissor-lift work platform with a 273kg lift capacity that can be raised from 0.96m to 2.5m.

Both the two-wheel and fourwheel-drive options also feature a 70-degree steering angle that gives manoeuvrability of a threewheel vehicle with four-wheel stability.

Toro Enquiry 96

Bobcat UTV has road homologation as standard

Bobcat’s 3400D multi-purpose diesel-powered utility vehicle now comes standard with road homologation (tractor).

Available in deluxe and standard versions, the Bobcat 3400D utility vehicle is designed to meet the needs of both work and recreational applications.

The 3400D utility vehicle offers a comprehensive choice of drive modes and dealer-installed accessories to provide the power, traction and versatility needed on a very wide variety of jobs, to negotiate all types of terrain.

Turf Mode allows the rear wheels to turn at different speeds in order to lessen the impact on

the ground (such as on manicured lawns).

The cargo bed includes tie-down points, a manual dumping lever with lift assist strut (standard

version) and an easy-to-open, foldflat tailgate. With a tow rating of 680 kg, the 3400D can easily pull trailers and other equipment.

Bobcat Enquiry 97

Gators continue to lead the way

In addition to its established range of diesel powered Gators, John Deere also offers a choice of newer petrol-engined XUV models.

Greater acceleration is provided by the four-wheel drive XUV 825i, which has been designed for customers looking for advanced off-road performance, all-day riding comfort and the ability to cope with extreme terrain.

The 825i is equipped with an 812cc, three-cylinder, liquidcooled, dual OHC petrol engine producing 50hp and a top speed of 67kph, plus a 26.7-litre fuel tank. The engine incorporates electronic fuel injection for easy starting, which together with the new continuously variable transmission (CVT) results in smoother automotive-style performance. A fully locking four-wheel drive system improves performance on

all types of terrain and power steering is standard.

The fully independent double wishbone suspension provides 203mm of wheel travel and up to 267mm of ground clearance.

The cargo box is made of a composite material that eliminates rust and dents and reduces noise. Load capacity is 454kg, while towing capacity is 680kg.

The 4x4 XUV 550 and XUV 550 S4 Gators provide a choice of two or four-passenger machines. A wide range of attachments and options are available for the XUV 550 Gators.

Deere Enquiry 99

New models boost the growing popularity of Can-Am range

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) has added two new utility quad bikes to its CanAm range, with an eye to taking on the current market leaders.

Using Rotax engines designed to offer more horsepower and torque than units of a similar capacity, higher towing capacities and keen pricing, the company is aiming to get a foothold in a relatively new sector.

The Can-Am Outlander L is available in two models – the L 450 which has a 427cc Rotax single cylinder engine delivering 38hp and the L 500 with a 499.6cc Rotax V-Twin engine delivering 46hp, both considerably more than their competitors’ models of the same size.

Towing capacity is 590kg; twoseater version can also be

specified with a longer wheelbase – the rear rack space is not compromised and it can be easily switched back to a single seater.

A 6x6 version of the Outlander has also been added to the range, featuring on-demand six-wheel drive and with the option of EC road homologation.

The Outlander 1000 6x6 can be supplied with a variety of rear cargo

boxes. It is powered by a 82hp Rotax V-Twin engine and offers load capacity of 363kg on the flat bed plus 750kg towing capacity.

The 6x6 has Dynamic power Steering (DPS) for improved manoeuvrability, and offers the extra stability to tackle more extreme terrain.

Can-Am Enquiry 100

Cub Cadet UTV majors on versatility

Whether hauling timber, maintaining large grounds or transporting people, the Cub Cadet utility vehicle has everything you need for versatility and power.

An on demand 4 x 4 system gives you the strength of 4 wheel drive at the flick of a switch. With loads of premium features packaged into every UTV, you’ll be ready for any challenge.

The Cub Cadet UTV offers a full range of accessories: lights, windscreens, winches and soft or hard roof plus such standard features such as ROPS approved anti-roll bar operator protection system and full front dual bar

brush guard, it all adds up to one great UTV. Features include: 3cylinder Yanmar diesel engine; top speed of up to 40 km/h; box frame, steel; high bed capacity; adjustable Coilover shocks; dual A-arm, fully independent suspension; 4-wheel, hydraulic disc brakes; and road legal, no additional cost to fit lighting.

E. P. Barrus Ltd has developed partnerships with major international companies representing leading brands in the garden machinery and garden tools, marine, and industrial engine markets.

E.P Barrus Ltd Enquiry 101

Work trucks to suit all tasks

Overton UK now supplies the Danish-built Stama range of battery powered work trucks, which includes four different models for groundcare work.

The scooter-style Micro Truck 24V has a 900 x 1000mm flatbed body with manual tipping and a 350kg load capacity.

The electric parking brake, low maintenance e-free AC motor with transaxle and charging unit are standard equipment. Options include a 900 x 1200mm body, removable sides, tool rack, flower or bucket shelf, padded seat or back, lights and the choice of Lithium Ion, Gel or Lead Acid batteries.

The articulated Mini Truck El 24V and compact Multi Truck El 48V are 2WD trucks with 750kg and 1000-1400kg load capacity hydraulic tipping bodies respectively and power steering.

For operations requiring a dumper truck the articulated Maxi Truck El 4WD 48V is a 4WD articulated truck has a 1000-1500kg load capacity hydraulic tipping body and power steering.

Standard equipment is two, two speed drive maintenance e-free AC motors with transaxles, digital multifunctional display, electric parking brake, adjustable sprung seat and storage compartment.

Options include a hydraulic turntable for the body, larger body, removable high sides, 20° front chute, road lights, hydraulic outlets and the choice of Lithium ion or Lead Acid batteries which are charged by a standard 3-Pin plug.

Overton UK

John

PM backs police’s latest move to tackle rural crime

Prime Minister David Cameron has backed Thames Valley Police’s latest move to tackle rural crime after the police force became the first in the UK to introduce a marked all terrain utility vehicle into its fleet.

The new police vehicle, a high performance and rugged Kubota RTVX900, is designed to handle any terrain, even in the toughest of conditions. This means the police will now to able to get to remote and challenging rural areas that were previously difficult to access.

Thames Valley Police do a lot of work to combat rural crime and approached Kubota, one of the world’s leading machinery manufacturers whose UK headquarters are in nearby Thame, to see if they could work in partnership together.

Superintendent Kath Lowe LPA Commander of Cherwell and West Oxon commented: “With this new Kubota RTVX900 in our fleet, we will now be able to reach a much higher percentage of rural crimes than ever before. This is going to help us to further improve the service we can provide our local community.”

Karen Tipping, Kubota UK’s Marketing Manager, concluded: “We know that from speaking to

“With the new RTVX900, the West Oxfordshire rural community can rest assure that

SCH leaves the rest trailing

If you are looking for a real workhorse of a trailer, SCH (Supplies) Ltd suggest that you take a close look at their range of hydraulic tipping trailers.

There are four versions currently available – a manual action hydraulic, the HTRLM, an electric, 12 volt unit the HTRLE, and two types powered from the tractors hydraulic system, the HTRL1, for tractors with one pipe, and the HTRL2 where there is a two pipe system.

Whatever the method of tipping, the trailers have a hefty carrying capacity of one ton.

The phenol faced wooden body measures 1800mm (72”) long and is 915mm (36”) wide. The headboard is fixed but the tailgate

and the sides drop down, making it easy to load and unload items.

The standard trailer comes with a clevis hitch but SCH say other types of hitch (i.e., a ball or ring hitch) are available. For bulkier loads, there is also a set of extension sides which can be supplied as an optional extra.

As well as other types of wooden tipping trailers, there are plastic bodied and galvanised trailers of various sizes. There are also several types of ATV trailers specifically designed for ATVs and quad bikes, as well as specialist use trailers such as the timber hauling trailer and the tree movers.

SCH Supplies Enquiry 105

The Kubota RTVX900 is powered by a 21.6HP, 3-cylinder liquid cooled diesel engine, featuring an advanced hydraulic transmission to boost performance and durability.

our customers in the farming industry that rural crime is a serious issue. Any measures that can help reduce these risks are therefore good news for these areas.

Thames Valley Police now have a vehicle that can tackle any terrain, whatever the conditions, meaning they will be better equipped at accessing remote and rural areas that they previously may have been more difficult to access.”

Kubota Enquiry 104

Royal St David’s invests in TYM as part of rolling machinery programme

Internationally renowned Welsh golf club Royal St David’s, set in Harlech, North Wales, has invested in one of TYM’s toughest compact tractors – the T503.

Marking part of a five-year Total Solutions package with turfcare specialist Lely UK, the T503, bought with cab, is the latest arrival from the club’s rolling machinery programme, joining two other tractors on site, along with a full Toro fleet – all supplied by Lely.

Rated within the top 50 golf courses in the UK, the club’s links manager Rhys Butler, says he evaluated comparative machinery in all key areas, including performance,

maintenance, ease of use and cost, and found TYM was the best fit.

“We tested out all of the tractor brands suitable for our needs, but TYM came top, both with myself and all six of the greenkeeping team here,” Rhys explains.

“The T503 offers great value for money and build quality. And, as well as being well laid out both inside and out, with a spacious cab, it’s also really operator friendly, with one touch PTO on/off control,” he says.

The ideal choice for tough jobs, the T503 compact tractor has hydrostatic power steering for ease of handling and also features optional tyre types as

well as a rear wiper, projection head lamps and a dual air filter.

With the switch panel for front and rear working lights and wipers being located on the right post, it also offers easy operational control, while the two selective control valves also work to connect hydraulic line components easily.

“We’ve been using it for a wide array of jobs around the club since it arrived, including vertidraining, spraying and trailer haulage,” he adds.

Lely UK Enquiry 107

Little Wonder at Longleat

Longleat, the seat of the Marquess of Bath, Longleat, is notable for its Elizabethan country house, set in 9,000 acres, and the parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. The latest addition to the grounds care team’s machinery portfolio are Little Wonder electric hedge trimmers. Longleat’s head gardener Jules Curtis and his deputy Darren Johnson opted for the Little Wonders commercial duty machines as they are lightweight and designed for comfort, featuring double reciprocating blades for faster, fatigue-free hedge cutting and sculpting.

“Working in the formal gardens we are cutting yew and box, including topiary peacocks,” says Jules. “We can get a much neater cut with electric, altogether a better job.”

The trimmers feature stamped, carbon steel blades that maintain their edge longer than ordinary steel blades and using electric there is another consideration: there are no emissions.

Bobcat loader demolishes the rest

A Bobcat S550 skid-steer loader hired from MTS Plant Hire & Sales, based in Wakefield, is part of the fleet of equipment being used by Portsmouth-based Hughes & Salvidge Demolition to demolish Castle Market in Sheffield in the UK.

Over the years, MTS has supplied the company with a range of specialist Bobcat machinery for use on many jobs. The Bobcat S550 loader from MTS has proved to be a vital piece of equipment for Hughes & Salvidge, as due to its compact size it has been able to work easily in the confined spaces inside the market, collecting debris and rubble with the Bobcat grapple attachment also supplied by MTS.

With its ability to turn around in its own length and fast cycle times, the Bobcat S550 skid-steer loader provides the

manoeuvrability and productivity needed to do more work in less time than other types of equipment.

Together with controls that allow for precise movements even in the tightest of spaces, Bobcat compact loaders such as the S550 model ensure safe, efficient operation at all times in areas inaccessible to traditional machines.

Bobcat Enquiry 110

Schiller Groundscare Enquiry 108

Swansea Council saves big with move to MAJOR

With extensive green areas to manage, Swansea City and County Council has its work cut out keeping vast swathes of grass looking lush and green.

Five years ago the parks were mown on a weekly basis with gang mowers. But budget cuts prompted a move to folding rotary mowers.

“Last July we began trialling a selection of machines better able to cope with the heavier workload brought on by the extended cutting cycle,” explained Andrew Collins, assistant central services manager for the City and County of Swansea Council Parks Department.

After some tough testing of four different mowers, it was Major Equipment’s 12000GR roller

mower that stood out for its overall performance in the tough conditions and its sturdy build quality. Mr Collins initially put in an order for two units which arrived midway through last season.

“They were put to work immediately and instantly proved themselves in heavy, wet grass,” said Andrew.

With last year’s two machines having proved themselves to be more than capable, this spring the council ordered another pair of mowers.

“So with four MAJOR 12000GR roller mowers we’ll be covering Swansea’s entire parkland area with them from this season on,” concluded Andrew.

Major Equipment Enquiry 111

Turning back the clocks with help from Redexim

Royal Cromer Golf Club is a very picturesque coastal course, 350 feet from the cliff edge.

The club has been a fan of Redexim machinery for some time and has become the first to own a 1430 Double Disc Overseeder in the UK.

Mark purchased a Redexim VertiDrain 2220 in January 2014 and uses it solely for aeration on the greens, tees, approaches and pathways to ensure the maximum amount of air is introduced into the ground.

Mark took delivery of a Double Disc 1430 Overseeder at the back end of 2014 – fitted with a wheel kit option to provide the extra weight needed to deal with the hard ground and the ‘napping’ (where

the ground ‘naps’ together) that has prevented the club overseeding on the fairways in the past.

The seeder arrived quite late in the year but they were still able to get out and do all the fairways with it. Summer season 2015 will see them able to do the fairways twice and the greens five or six times. The 30mm spacing provides a ‘no disturbance’ factor to golfers to allow quick recovery and leave a lovely finish.

Mark says the combined attributes of the two Redexim products gets the course looking natural and playing the same as it would have been 125 years ago when it first opened.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 112

Dart is on target for bowls club

According to greenkeeper, Derek Turner, of Liskeard Bowling Club in Cornwall, the green took “one hell of a hammering” after nearly 200 games.

It is for this very reason that he turned to the SISIS Dart to get the green back to its usual excellent standards.

“After seeing the machine in action at the seminar, we asked for a personal demonstration at our club and were very impressed,” he said.

The weight of the equipment was something which was extremely important to Derek. As an exmarine, most machines wouldn’t trouble him but he felt that the lightweight SISIS Dart machine would be of particular benefit to other club members who succeeded him.

The lightweight feature of the SISIS Dart is just one of many benefits the popular machine offers its operators. The independently powered vertical action aerator improves drainage,

reduces turf compaction, thatch build up and increases the health of surface.

Powered by a 6.5hp engine, the Dart has a working depth of up to 100mm which can be easily adjusted from the operator’s position using the balanced depth control lever. The unit can also be fitted with a wide range of tines to meet the operator’s requirements, something which Derek uses to his advantage.

SISIS Enquiry 115

Introducing the new tool store to adore

Leading the way in product development and design, commercial van accessories manufacturer Van Guard has revealed its sleek new Tool Store.

Incorporating improved design features in direct response to customer feedback while still delivering cost savings of up to 27%, the new Tool Store is scheduled for launch in the week commencing 22 June.

Renowned for its high quality standards, Van Guard has paid special attention to detail in its new Tool Store design, which comes in three new sizes – to accommodate tool boxes – has fewer rivets, has an improved locking mechanism and sports a sleek new look with Van Guard’s stamp of quality.

Van Guard Enquiry 116

Improving precision and reducing waste

Plantworx works for BLEC

BLEC Global report a very good response from customers at Plantworx 2015, with the main products demonstrated being the Power Box Rake and Laser Graders.

The Power Box Rake is designed for landscapers to be able to cultivate, earth move, grade and rake all in one pass. There are several configurations with walkbehind, tractor and loader versions.

The BLEC Laser Grader comes in compact, mid and heavy-duty models offering dual grading with an accurate and smooth proportional valve system. The graders are ideal for levelling sports areas, golf tees and all types of pitches.

BLEC’s Gary Mumby says: “We are very pleased with the show. We have created some new contacts and BLEC are now actively looking to extend our range of equipment to cater for the growing demand within the construction industry.”

Both the Power Box Rake and Laser Grader were sold at the show following the demonstrations.

BLEC Global Enquiry 118

The applicator can be calibrated to deliver between 8 and 250 grams of product per squeeze of the trigger consistently and accurately while the long and flexible lance enables the granules and powders to be delivered precisely where needed.

McConnel unveils control systems for 2015 power arms

McConnel has launched the new Motion and Evolution advanced control systems, helping customers enjoy the best in precise proportional control and get peak performance from their Power Arm. The new Evolution controller has been created for customers who demand outstanding precision and functionality. Evolution offers eight-function controls; joystick technology perfected by McConnel’s acclaimed Revolution system; and a robust design capable of withstanding the demands of busy professional contractors.

Five proportional and three bangbang functions are available for precise fingertip control, while the joystick enables operators to customise the controls to suit their personal preferences or the job at hand.

The Motion control system is an easy-to-master six-function proportional controller which offers light and precise fingertip control of complex manoeuvres and operations. Featuring an ergonomic control pod, purposebuilt software, and proven joystick technology, the system is rugged, responsive and reliable.

McConnel has also upgraded its state-of-the-art Revolution control system adding a redesigned control pod with a full key panel – ensuring all functions and controls are in easy reach.

Revolution remains the most advanced mainstream controller on the market with eight proportional functions, a 5.5” full-colour display, and advanced control mapping options.

A new knapsack granule applicator which delivers precise doses of powdered or granulated agrichemicals and fertilisers has been introduced by the Professional Sprayers People (part of the Spray People Group).

The knapsack granule applicator is ideal for use in areas where large scale, vehicle mounted granule applicators are not viable, or where access is restricted.

The Professional Sprayer People are the official UK distributors for the Guarany range of professional sprayers, nebulisers, powder and granule application devices.

The Professional Sprayer People Enquiry 117

McConnel

Wiedenmann Terra Spike XF6 increases playability at rugby club

A Wiltshire rugby club has taken a huge step to keep its five pitches and training areas playable all season long and minimise fixtures that fall victim to the vagaries of winter.

Royal Wootton Bassett RFC has bought a Wiedenmann Terra Spike deep aerator and sees it as a major investment that will start to pay off as early as this autumn.

With a big family ethos the Southern Counties South club runs three regular senior teams, six 13 – U18 junior teams and six age groups from Under 6-12 years. The club recently move in to a brand new facility at Ballards Ash and since then has invested heavily in the facility including new drainage on the main rugby pitches. Royal Wootton Bassett RFC applied for a Rugby

Dennis G860 for Bury FC

Michael Curtis, Head Groundsman at Bury F.C’s JD Stadium at Gigg Lane, has been at the club for almost 30 years.

With the stadium pitch and three training pitches to look after, Michael and his team have their work cut out, so it is vital they have the correct equipment to meet the demands of the job.

Michael said the main reason he purchased the G860 was because of the machines weight. At just 166kg it is one of the lightest

machines designed specifically for stadium pitch mowing on the market.

Equally impressive is the G860’s versatility; with eleven quick changeover cassette options including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers, and slitters as well as 6 or 8 bladed cutter cassettes, many day-to-day maintenance tasks can easily be achieved.

Football Foundation (RFF) grant and sought funds from a Sport England grant for grounds maintenance equipment. With funds in place and after receiving expert advice from Keith Kent, Twickenham’s head groundsman through the RFU’s ‘Groundsman Connected’ scheme, they chose a Terra Spike XF6 refurbished through Wiedenmann UK’s own workshops.

Part of the Wiedenmann purchase included full installation and a training seminar for all the Royal Wootton Bassett volunteer team who’ll be involved using the aerator with their existing New Holland tractor.

Wiedenmann Enquiry

121

British-made solutions from SCH

The Professional Leaf Suction Unit by SCH is a leaf eating machine, powered by a 9hp Honda engine.

The unit is mounted on a twowheel chassis with a towbar and can be attached to a leaf collecting trailer which can be supplied by SCH on request – or the customer can modify and use their own.

Leaves are sucked up through the 200mm wide hose. They are then

chopped by the fan as they enter the trailer which greatly reduces the space they take up and so reduces the number of times the unit has to be emptied. The wandering hose has a comfortable handle and can reach underneath rows of trees, into flower beds and up to the edges of walls.

SCH Supplies Enquiry 123

Avant compact tool carrier is the machine of choice

A company specialising in the eradication of Japanese knotweed has recently taken delivery of an Avant 745 compact tool carrier to tackle a wide variety of tasks.

Nimrod Environmental, established in 2007 by Daniel Kaye, spends approximately 60% of its time tackling invasive weeds on a nationwide basis using a variety of methods from chemical treatment to complete excavation and removal to landfill. This work is carried out not only at domestic properties but also on behalf of developers, local authorities and rail companies.

Mr Kaye said: "I was looking for a yard machine that could also be easily towed to sites behind our truck and, in my opinion, the 745 model offered the best combination of compact size, traction and overall performance to suit the services we offer which also include tree surgery, site clearance and commercial landscaping."

The 1400 kg lift capacity 745 is powered by a Kubota 4cylinder diesel engine developing 36 kW (49 hp), driving through an hydrostatic transmission which provides a

Dennis Enquiry 122

top speed of 15 km/h. The allwheel drive, articulated machine is just 1350 mm wide and features a telescopic boom

and self-levelling system as standard.

Avant Tecno Enquiry 124

Makita pole saw acclaimed as “faultless”

Jaime Bray, owner of Treetop Arboriculture and chairman of the Arborists Working Group, has been involved in tree work for more than 20 years.

He has recently passed the RFS Professional Diploma in Arboriculture, a highly regarded qualification recognised by the industry.

Jaime uses the Makita telescopic pole chainsaw in his daily tasks of tree maintenance, ornamental pruning and crown lifting, and for pruning trees away from a client’s property.

“In boundary disputes, where there is a problem with access to an adjacent property, the full reach of the Makita pole saw at 3.9 metres extended is a blessing,” he says. “Overhanging vegetation can be reached with ease, ensuring that trespass does

not occur on neighbouring property.

“The balance of this pole saw is excellent, even when fully extended. The Makita 4-stroke engine has lots of torque, it starts first time, every time, and has never missed a beat. It’s so quiet it’s a pleasure to use, and the fuel consumption is so good you sometimes hope it will stop so you can have a break.”

Weighing just 7.2kg the Makita EY2650H telescopic pole saw extends from 2.7m to 3.9m, is powered by the 25.4cc Makita MM4 4-stroke engine with pressurised oil system producing 1.03hp. The 255mm/10” bar carries 3/8th pitch, 0.050” gauge chain with a 0.12 litre chain oil tank.

Weaving compact range provides comprehensive package

The Weaving compact tractor park and garden maintenance range is produced in conjunction with Agrimaster, a European leader in the manufacture of vegetation control equipment with a proud history of offering high specification equipment at very competitive prices.

Weaving Machinery has enjoyed considerable success with the larger Agrimaster range in agriculture and amenity markets for more than 15 years and is now introducing the compact range to meet the needs of the park and garden market. Designed specifically for use

with compact tractors from 15 to 35hp, the new range of Agrimaster mowers and trimmers is well suited to maintaining the appearance of large scale parks and gardens and associated grass areas.

The new range includes the robust cat 1 three point linkage mounted XB in-line flail mowers with cutting widths of 132, 153 and 180cm.

The XB range has a manual offsetting system to facilitate cutting outside the tractor width and tight against fences and walls. An adjustable full width

140mmØ rear roller controls the cutting height while leaving an attractive striped finish. The special “scoop” flails never need sharpening and give a clean cut while leaving the chopped

material in an even carpet with no unsightly swath.

Machinery Enquiry 127

RotoSweep helps refine renovation at St George’s Park

Alan Ferguson, Head of Grounds and Estates at St George’s Park, has hailed the impact of the Imants RotoSweep with Rhea scarifier attachment as he continues to refine his renovations.

Alan has spent four years at the Football Association’s training headquarters in Burton-UponTrent and has continually developed his renovation process and on this occasion looked within the Campey’s network for inspiration.

The machine has been used at St George’s Park for three years with the full impact of using it on the pitches being seen after eight months of use, with the RotoSweep/Rhea Scarifier now a vital part of the renovation process.

“We were getting great results from our previous renovation

regime but we are always looking at ways we can improve in order to produce the highest quality pitches possible,” Alan began.

“The Imants RotoSweep with the Rhea Scarifier was brought in to scarify during the end of season renovation programme through a need to carry out a more refined variation of verti cutting.

“We wanted to explore the possibility of using it with a finer blade as a way of doing this and Campey’s were more than happy to help us put it into practice.

”The RotoSweep’s brush, vacuum and large hopper made it ideal for the job and Campey’s were as supportive as ever in helping us fit finer blades for the Rhea Scarifier and the results were superb.”

Despite the Rotosweep’s ability to remove large amounts of

debris from pitches it was the Rhea scarifier attachment that was the main draw for Alan with the improvements noticed by him and the players using the pitches.

It has resulted in improved ball movement for the players from all of the 24 England international teams and some of Europe’s elite sides.

“By scarifying with the Rotosweep with Rhea scarifier on

a more regular basis we can control the density and produce an excellent surface,” he added.

“Since starting this practice the player interaction with the surface on the pitches has been excellent. Players remark on how true our pitches are, with little or no foot slip.”

Enquiry 129

Ransomes Jacobsen UK dealer sales awards

In conjunction with their annual UK Dealer Meeting, which coincided with the launch of the Ransomes MP Series five-gang cylinder mowers and Jacobsen Truckster XD, Ransomes Jacobsen presented sales awards to their top performing dealers. Held at an evening reception in the Riverside restaurant at Woodbridge in Suffolk, the winners were TH White Ltd, Fairways GM Ltd and Turney Groundforce. TH White Ltd, with sales and distribution depots in Reading, Redditch, Tetbury and Timsbury, were the recipients of the Ransomes sales award for their exceptional market penetration in the municipal and groundscare contractor sectors.

Scottish dealer, Fairways GM, were the winners of the Jacobsen sales award. Strategically located at Inchinnan, close by Glasgow airport, Kinross in Perthshire and Aberdeen their strategy of realigning their sales team to concentrate on the two specific

core brands – Ransomes and Jacobsen – has resulted in above forecast sales results in the golf sector. Operating from two retail depots near Bicester, Oxfordshire and Wellingborough in Northamptonshire, PA Turney are one of the smaller main dealers in the Ransomes Jacobsen network. However, this has not prevented them from becoming the top performing Iseki dealer in the UK. Sales Director Rupert Price said: “In differing ways they have all demonstrated extreme professionalism in their strategic approach to gaining market penetration in their respective territories. They have all demonstrated their can-do attitude to ensure that customers have the correct machinery, the ultimate after-sales support and the most cost-effective finance packages, which is further testimony to the award of these accolades.”

Makita Enquiry 128

Weaving

Campey Turf Care Systems

Ransomes Jacobsen

Simon

Landscape Amenity

DLF spreads range in NI

DLF have appointed Orchard County Enterprises as their new distributor in Northern Ireland for the Johnsons Sports Seed range.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, Orchard isone of Ireland’s leading distributors of gardening, landscaping and sporting products and supplies.

New marketing co-ordinator for Everris

Everris UK has announced the appointment of Kevin Whitby as its new marketing communications co-ordinator.

Kevin has over 14 years’ industry experience after holding a number of similar roles. After initially starting his career in distribution, Kevin joins Everris from Sherriff Amenity where he held the position of marketing manager for a number of years.

Commenting on his new role, Kevin said: “Everris is a dynamic company and their reputation speaks for itself. I feel this is a fantastic opportunity for me.”

Replay Maintenance deliver on promises to school

Heathfield Community School in Somerset sought expert help with their full size, sand-based artificial pitch after the aging surface was starting to show signs of wear and tear.

The school turned to Replay Maintenance, who soon delivered on everything they promised.

The 12 year old pitch was extremely clogged with dirt and compacted sand and as a result the surface was suffering from constant flooding. It also had an uneven ball-bounce and complaints were arising that it was playing too fast.

The company’s popular Replay Rejuvenation process restores sand-filled synthetic turf to an appearance and performance which is as good as new. In some cases this process can double the playing life of the surface.

Replay’s fully qualified and

experienced team begin the process by operating the company’s unique Beaver machines, which extracts all of the contaminated infill utilising compressed air driven. The machine also cleans pile fibres, untangles them and restores them, whilst repairing weak seams.

A purpose-built sand spreading machine then distributes and

brushes in fresh infill to the desired depth, leaving optimum free pile. Finally, Replay’s Sandmaster machine works the infill into the surface leaving the pitch as good as it was when it was first constructed.

DLF Enquiry 147

Everris UK Enquiry 148

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 149