Landscape & Amenity Product Update May 2016

Landscape Amenity

Water Management & Irrigation

Play & Activity Today

Brushcutters

Spotlight on the popular models Page 26-27

New research shows parents worried about cuts to parks

The Parks Alliance (TPA), the UK’s voice of parks, has published ‘The National Playground: growing the next generation’ on the importance of parks to family life.

The current squeeze on budgets is putting our parks and green spaces at risk and data highlighted in the report show that parents with children under 10, are most concerned about the impact of budget cuts on local parks, with 7 out of 10 worried about the prospect of cuts. In this parent group, 8 out of 10 visit parks once a month, the highest number of any park users.

Parks are an integral part of childhood. In an average month, 48% of all children in England visit local urban parks. Across the country it ranges from 46%

of children in the North East to 54% in the east of England.

Other data highlighted in the report include: park visits accounted for an estimated 827 million visits taken to the natural environment in England 2014/15; every month, on average, three quarters of children (75%) visit the natural environment with adults from their own household; and play was the dominant reason given by adults for the visits they took with children to the natural environment. 47% of children took visits that were motivated by adults wanting to play with their children and 43% took visits where the motivation was ‘to let the children play’.

Mark Camley, Chairman of The Parks Alliance, said: “Public parks have provided generations

Massive automated gates swing into action

Jacksons Fencing recently installed a 4m x 14m fully automated double leaf swing gates, as part of the ongoing security updates at the Eurotunnel Coquelles site.

With each post weighing over a tonne and each leaf measuring 7m wide, weighing 1600kg and operated by 125mm bore x 1300mm stroke, rams weighing over 200 kilos and capable of lifting over 19 tonnes / 190,000 newtons (the equivalent of a full double decker bus), so this

massive gate is anything but lightweight, yet is no slouch with the opening and closing operations completed within 60 seconds.

The new gate is one of the largest automated swing gate Jacksons have ever designed, manufactured and installed and naturally includes full safety features and is CE Marked in compliance with the EU Machinery Directive.

Fencing Enquiry 2

of young people with safe space to play and enjoy themselves.

“Parks and green spaces enable families to spend quality time together, and help with physical and mental health. The case for maintaining parks is clear but their future is under threat. Since 2010, 86% of parks managers’ report cuts to revenue budgets. The Park’s Alliance is concerned about the risk of closures, selloffs and a drop in the quality of our green spaces and calls for a public Inquiry in to how parks are funded.”

The report also features visitor data from three local parks in Crosby, Wheatley and Wetherby highlighting their importance to their local communities.

Parks Alliance Enquiry 1

Specially formulated to make grass surfaces more durable, Topsport fibre reinforced Loksand is ideal for heavily trafficked areas, including equestrian paddocks, public parks, access roads and car parks.

SALTEX 2016 attracting world class exhibitors

SALTEX 2016 continues to gain momentum after many of the industry’s leading names have confirmed their presence at this year’s exhibition, which will be at the NEC Birmingham from 2 to 3 November 2016.

John Deere, Toro, Ransomes Jacobsen, STIHL and Kubota will be returning to the show for a second consecutive year, so visitors can again expect to see an impressive line-up of top turf care equipment in addition to suppliers of leading groundscare products such as ICL, Rigby Taylor, Limagrain UK, Vitax Amenity and DLF Trifolium.

Companies such as Turftrax, Granuflex, Equisafe UK, SGL (Stadium Grow Lighting),

SALTEX event director Matthew Knight said: “Many companies that didn’t exhibit in 2015 saw firsthand how fantastic the exhibition was and this has prompted them to take stand space this year to avoid missing a great opportunity.

“If we continue to receive the same level of enquiries and bookings then there is a great chance of expanding the show even further. It is our goal to grow SALTEX year on year and early signs are extremely positive.”

SALTEX Enquiry 3

The

Aquaterra Europe, Boston Seeds, Acorn Tractors and Parnells, will all be making their first appearance at SALTEX 2016.

Jacksons

Grass surfaces last longer and work harder with Loksand.

Welcome...

Once again we feature a new survey highlighting concerns at the availability of quality parks and green spaces. And once again we cover a new story of a new initiative aimed at encouraging the next generation to become more active by providing greater support and guidance to schools and community groups.

We will continue to highlight such stories and give them as much prominence as possible. But it does beg the question, is anyone listening?

Hopefully, the answer is yes. Indeed, the Heritage Lottery Fund last month asked park managers and local authorities to take part in a survey to assess the effect of the current economic climate on the UK’s parks.

Drew Bennellick, head of landscapes and natural heritage at HLF, said: “The first State of Parks report was widely used to extol the value of public parks, and this was in a large part thanks to the time and dedication of those that completed the survey.

“We want to know how parks have fared since then. Has funding stabilised? Have new income streams helped address the challenges facing parks? Or have the difficulties become more acute since our last survey? We want to hear from as many park managers as possible to help us get a full and accurate picture of the state of our parks.”

Fittingly, given these stories, this month we have our Play & Activity Today special supplement that looks at all aspects of this important sector. As well as new product launches, we highlight case studies of play equipment and surfacing as part of API members’ efforts to encourage greater activity for school-age children.

Elsewhere, we have product features that also serve to highlight the diverse nature of our industry – these cover brushcutters, soils, treatments and fertilisers and also water management – as well as the usual mix of news, views and product announcements.

Groves Editor

PUBLISHER

CIRCULATION MANAGER Becki Everitt becki@tspmedia.co.uk

COMMERCIAL MANAGER Dave Smith david.smith@tspmedia.co.uk

Contents:

Paul

New Först woodchipper tackles the toughest slopes

Först, a leading supplier of high performance and robust woodchippers, has launched the XR8 Traxion, a brand new machine developed specifically for rail contractors and arborists that need to tackle embankments and difficult terrains.

The XR8 Traxion is a fast, powerful and exceptionally versatile 8” x 10” capacity woodchipper that has been designed to traverse banks and slopes up to 35 degrees with ease. It features a parallel linkage leg system that allows users to expand and retract legs independently for safe and stable tracking on the bankside, as well as class leading ground clearance (height of 695mm when fully expanded) to negotiate difficult obstacles.

Doug Ghinn, Director at Först, commented: “Our range of woodchippers have developed an excellent reputation in the

market for outstanding chipping performance and premium build quality.

“The launch of our new XR8 Traxion is designed to build on this and add value to the product and service offering we provide our customers. From the research we have carried out in the market, we know that there is a real need for a machine that can not only traverse banks effectively, but also has the ability to chip volumes of wood fast to save arb contractors valuable time and money. The XR8 Traxion has been developed to do exactly that.”

Powered by a 50HP, 4-cylinder Kubota diesel engine, the new XR8 Traxion produces lots of low down torque to power the large Först flywheel.

The engine also drives the hydraulic pump directly through the engines power take off (PTO),

which means all the torque is transferred directly to the tracks.

Other key benefits include Först’s unique feedroller system (FörstGrip), which ensures exceptional crushing power. The FörstGrip top feed roller climbs on an arc toward the timber, pulling material down toward the flywheel and naturally climbing butt ends to make the infeed grip exceptional to break the toughest of forks and limbs. The machine also features an ‘AutoIntelligence’ control system for simple usability and operation, which is completely water and vibration proof to protect the electronics.

As with the whole range of Först woodchippers, the XR8 Traxion comes with a three year warranty as standard for complete peace of mind and is backed up by Först first class service offering.

Först Enquiry 6

Improved cabin for P Riders

Husqvarna introduces a brand new factory assembled cabin for the P 525D Rider that lets professional landscapers continue working even in heavy rain or snow.

The new cabin on the P 525D has been developed on antivibration platform, resulting in significantly lowered vibration and noise levels, and thereby increasing user comfort. Improved fitting between the doors and cabin also increases the overall integrity of the

attachment, making the cabin more robust and durable.

Developed for professionals who need to tackle a variety of landscaping jobs over the seasons, the P 525D is extremely versatile because of the many attachments - a front-mounted cutting deck; snow thrower; snow blade; snow plough; blower; weed brush; spreader; flail mower; and broom.

Husqvarna Enquiry 7

Fiat Professional Fullback makes its debut

Fiat Professional’s all-new Fullback pick-up truck made its UK debut at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show held at Birmingham’s NEC.

The new medium-duty pick-up will join the award-winning FIAT Professional range in June 2016, along with the new Talento and Fiorino, and will be available with a practical double cab body style configuration in the UK

making it an ideal vehicle for both commercial and leisure time activities.

The Fullback is FIAT Professional’s first contender in the medium-duty pick-up truck segment. In the UK, 2015 sales in the pick-up segment were up 18% with full year registrations totalling almost 40,000 units.

Fiat Professional Enquiry 10

Twose and McConnel team up to forge unified company

Twose of Tiverton is to merge with its sister company McConnel, combining the skills and resources of two of the most illustrious names in British agricultural engineering.

The move, which will take place on 1st May 2016, will see the creation of a specialist Grassland and Arable Machinery Division resulting in a wider product offering which will generate new opportunities for growth.

Twose’s comprehensive range of cultivation and farm machinery, including its market-leading range of agricultural folding rollers will be added into McConnel’s arable and seeding machinery portfolio - enabling the company to offer a one-stop shop for all of its agricultural and green maintenance machinery products.

Gianni Ferrari 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.”

Gianni Ferrari Enquiry 12

The major benefits to overseas distributors, dealers and customers will be:

• The creation of a one-stop shop for the products of the two famous companies Twose and McConnel within a newly created Grassland and Arable Machinery

Division

• Newly formed specialist sales and technical support teams to assist all customers

• An increase in dealer coverage across the UK along with additional overseas distributors for sales, service, and spare parts

• Increased promotional activities leveraging the McConnel and Twose brands whilst respecting their proud historical heritage

• To avail additional investment in the research and development to ensure a

steady flow of new products. These changes will be seamless for distributors, dealers and customers.

All Grassland and Arable machinery will be produced at the Alamo Manufacturing Service’s multimillion pound production facility at Salford Priors, whilst the hedge and verge cutting machinery will continue to be manufactured at the awardwinning Ludlow factory.

Alamo Group Europe – UK Agricultural Division’s General

Manager Christian Davies said: “The establishment of a new Grassland and Arable machinery division is an exciting development for our agricultural group.

“The bringing together of two of our famous brands, adding in new products, the establishment of a new specialist sales and technical support teams, increasing the availability of our products more locally will bring huge benefits to all of our customers worldwide.”

McConnel Enquiry 11

Highspeed Group Ltd has launched a big discount Carbery Fuel King promotion on their Bundedtanks.com website Bundedtanks.com has launched the latest promotion featuring the two Carbery Fuel Kings (1350 and 2500 litres).

contents gauge, interior light, auto filling nozzle, lockable easy access door, flow meter, water and particulate filter and a superb five metre integral retractable filling hose. Bundedtanks.com is offering both with £100 discount for a limited period.

Highspeed Group LTD Enquiry 13

Cutting straight to the point

Cutting paving slabs and flag stones is part and parcel of a landscaper‘s working day, but doing so without compromising on your health and safety has become an evermore tricky task

The latest HSE regulations stipulate that stone and rock should be dampened with water prior to being cut, to reduce the amount of dust produced.

“With some of the nasty side effects of breathing in too much of the resulting dust including lung diseases such as silicosis, emphysema and even lung cancer, these regulations shouldn’t be flouted, particularly for landscapers who are exposed to the risks

on a daily basis,“ expalined Hyde’s John Dabb.

“Wearing a dust mask will go some way to protecting you while cutting, but many landscapers opt instead to cut dry, avoiding the use of water altogether.

“With any markings and guides made ready for cutting the material washed away, following HSE guidelines can really slow you down and even lead to inaccuracies. However, cutting dry can prove costly not just to your health, but to your bank balance too, as being caught out will result in a fine.

“The Slab Cutting Guide from Brickworker is therefore an inexpensive and all-round much

BALI strengthens its team

BALI, the UK’s largest trade body for the landscape industry, has strengthened its marketing and communications team at Landscape House with the appointment of Darren Taylor as marketing and communications manager.

He joined the association in early April, ahead of the show and event

season. Darren is a graduate in marketing and communications from Coventry University and over the past ten years his wideranging experience has included advertising field sales, digital marketing, design and print.

BALI Enquiry 17

safer alternative way of working for landscapers.

“Locking on to the slab or tile, this simple yet clever device helps achieve a fast, accurate straight cut, in exactly the place you want it. Whether you are cutting through paving slabs or natural stone your safety won’t be compromised and the job won’t be slowed down in any way.

“The patented Brickworker Slab Cutting Guide can be used to cut slabs between 20mm-60mm thick and 210mm-910mm long and achieves a clean, accurate cut in just a few simple steps.“

Hyde Enquiry 16

New investment initiates Unilog Pro sales boost

M&M Timber’s Unilog Pro landscaping timbers look set to become one of the company’s best selling products of the year, following further investment at the company’s Worcestershire manufacturing centre.

Demand for M&M Timber’s market leading Unilog Pro landscaping timbers continues to grow and this has initiated new investment to step up production output to meet demand. Stockholding has now increased dramatically after the recent commissioning of further drying kilns, used in the

preservation process of Unilog Pro timbers, enabling a competitive 7-10 day turnaround of orders.

Recommended for all commercial applications, Unilog Pro landscaping timbers are pressure treated with Tanalith E preservative in accordance with BS8417 and, significantly, are the only landscaping timbers on the market to be backed with a full written warranty by the company for a 15 year warranty, which can be extended to a full 30 years.

Latest Sandtex Trade video offers a guide to masonry paints

In the fi lm Kevin O’Donnell, Product Trainer for Crown Paints, looks at the wide variety of masonry paints available and

The information provided covers a broad subject area including the achievement of smooth and textured finishes, ideas to enhance architectural features and an insight into how to provide longterm protection against weather exposure. The first and second can be viewed at https://www. youtube.com/user/SandtexTrade

Event hosted by Emirates Golf Club in Dubai

The second Leading Edge event - the Desert Series - a unique educational, networking and social event for club and course managers, took place at The Emirates Golf Club in Dubai.

Hosted by the team at Emirates, in conjunction with GEO (Golf Environment Organization) and supported by Jacobsen, the Desert Series was an opportunity for members from senior management at golf clubs across

the Middle East to network and learn from each other and respected experts from within the golf industry.

As well as the educational aspect, two 18-hole golf tournaments were played over the two magnificent courses at Emirates, the Majlis –home to the recent Dubai Desert Classic - and the Faldo.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

24

The Snickers Solid Gear Hydra GTX safety shoe

The Hultafors Group’s new ‘Solid Gear’ brandavailable through Snickers Workwear stockists in the UK - is revolutionizing footwear on site.

Tthe new HYDRA GTX trainer-style safety shoe is a highly technical safety shoe that integrates modern design with best-in-class materials for water protection, durability and a sporty look.

Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable, while the Vibram outsole and Cordura ripstop fabric offer great protection and ruggedness. The unique BOA Closure System distributes the pressure of the fastened shoe evenly across your feet.

Hultafors Group Enquiry 23

M&M Timber Enquiry 21 Different types of masonry paint are introduced in the second episode of the ‘This Is Sandtex Trade’ video series.

how different formulations can create distinct finishes for every requirement.

Sandtex Trade Enquiry 22

Taunton School experience great results from Lebanon ProScape 20-0-5 Fertiliser

Mark Jolliffe is Head Groundsman at Taunton School and together with his team of six is responsible for looking after 14 hectares of sports fields and formal gardens.

The school accommodates cricket, rugby, football, hockey, lacrosse, netball, tennis and rounders as well as all athletic disciplines and two golf practice greens.

In addition to this, the school hosts outside lettings for summer school sport camps, including Arsenal Soccer School and Exeter City F.C. pre-season training.

After discussing his requirements with ALS Technical Regional Sales Manager Ray Hunt last spring, Mark opted to use Lebanon ProScape 20-0-5 for the first time on his outfield areas and pitches.

Mark was delighted with the results: “Lebanon ProScape has been excellent for us, delivering good initial spring growth, despite an exceptionally dry April in 2015, and a controlled release of nutrient which gave us steady growth over a three month period. This has provided excellent colour and vigour to our intensively used turf.”

Lebanon ProScape 20-0-5 +1% Fe is a fast acting fertiliser with the controlled released feeding of MESA for extended longevity.

The blend of nutrients and release technology makes it ideal to use early spring to kick start grass and throughout the spring and summer growing season. The MESA granules are blue in colour, making it easier to see when spreading, even at lower volume rates.

ALS Enquiry 27

A fine time for pine

Woodbank Timber has launched the SurePine brand as an alternative to Spruce which currently accounts for the vast majority of fence posts used across the UK.

There are a number of advantages to SurePine as Adrian Howden of Woodbank Timber explained: “The Sapwood of both Spruce and Pine species is classified as non-durable. This means that it is important to ensure this part of the timber is protected through the timber preparation and treatment process, particularly for in-ground applications.

“The defining difference between the two species is their ability to absorb the preservative solution

in order to reach the required level of durability. Spruce is a refractory species which makes it difficult to attain the required level of preservative penetration whereas Pine is far easier to treat and achieve the required 100%

“SurePine posts are dried properly before being treated with Koppers Performance Chemicals’ Celcure C65 preservative. Rigorously tested on-site, they are then quality checked within Koppers’ laboratories. The quality of penetration, as well as the checking procedures, offers peace of mind for the contractor and the end user.”

New line marking brochure

A 24 page, fully illustrated pitch line marking brochure is now available from Rigby Taylor.

The brochure details the company’s award winning paints and marking machines, together with quotes from leading industry figures such as Alan Ferguson (Wembley and Saint George’s Park) and Keith Kent (Twickenham).

The Rigby Taylor Impact paints and iGO applicators are now regarded as the leading global pitch line marking system. In 2011 the paint received the Queen Award for innovation and this year has received a further Queens award for Enterprise.

The Impact range of paints, are now are available for marking grass and non-grassed surfaces and these formulations are complemented by the extensive Duraline range that can be used in spray markers or applied by transfer wheel and some provide colour options.

A page in the brochure is devoted to Preline, the only MAFF approved glyphosate and paint pre-mix for the initial marking of lines. Within the brochure is also an easy to follow ‘at-a-glance’ product selector and nozzle flow rate selector chart.

New range of wildflower seeds

Meadowmat has introduced an array of wildflower seeds to their product range for spring 2016.

There are four distinctive seed mixes designed to complement the four most popular varieties of wildflower matting.

The boxes are aimed at gardeners wishing to create a wildflower

area on a budget. Each box of seed comes with full sowing instructions and contains 20g of seed, enough to cover 4m2. The new range includes: Traditional Meadowmat Wildflower Seed; Birds and Bees Wildflower Seed Mix: Cottage Garden seed mix: and Woodland Shade Wildflower Seed Mix.

Snickers’ ALLROUND work trousers

The Snickers’ Next Generation Workwear range are modern working clothes that combine amazing fit with hardwearing comfort and advanced functionality.

The WorkTrousers are in a new, contemporary designs packed with innovative features that focus on fit, comfort and freedom of movement using hardwearing fabrics for long lasting protection.

The new ALLROUND WorkTrousers the most modern products of their kind with superior knee protection, built-in leg ventilation and a stretch gusset for extra freedom of movement. Made from a hardwearing nylon ‘Dobby Pro’ fabric with Cordura reinforcements, they are the ultimate choice for professionals.

Snickers Enquiry 29

30

Woodbank Timber Enquiry

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 31

Meadowmat Enquiry 28

Prestige scalloped fencing –the ultimate in good looks

M&M Timber’s top of the range Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing is in high demand due to it’s ultimate good looks, superb specification and smooth sanded surfaces.

Strong and elegant, with chamfered tops, the scalloped post and half round rail fencing looks good in any application and has become the top choice for high end perimeter fencing and commercial applications throughout the UK. As suited to the entrance and driveway of a stately home, as it is to public leisure areas, such as woodland walks, heritage sites and theme parks, M&M’s Prestige fencing is also an established favourite in equestrian circles,

and is widely used in stabling enclosures, ménages and sporting venues.

Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing is recommended by professionals for its aesthetic appeal and versatility, offering a choice of specially selected light or heavy weight timbers and two, three or four-rail scalloped post options.

Kiln dried and pressure treated in accordance with BS 8417, all M&M Timber’s Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing timbers are designed to last, with the backing of a noquibble 15 year service life warranty.

M&M Timber Enquiry 34

All-weather durable jointing for stone setts

A prestige stone driveway was created using 100mm rumbled magma granite setts, by the natural stone paving specialists from PDG Groundworks, who recommended that the setts be jointed with the slurry applied, self compacting and non-staining, vdw 850 jointing mortar from NCC Streetscape. The vdw 850 jointing mortar is capable of accommodating frequent and heavy vehicle traffic loads, and it prevents weed growth or boring

insect infestations, it is also fully resistant to the use of de-icing salts and freeze thaw action, plus it is suitable for frequent cleaning with mechanical street sweepers. The vdw 850 jointing mortar also has advantages in its application, because it can be applied in cold and wet weather, it is extremely fast to apply and then it hardens rapidly

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 33

Rooftop hub decked out in Sadolin Classic

Terracing at an apartment complex in Birmingham has been restored to its former glory with Sadolin Classic. The elevated deck serves as a community hub and meeting place for residents from surrounding apartments in the Digbeth area.

Its location, on the rooftop of a multi-storey carpark, leaves the terrace exposed to varying weather conditions and Optima Community Association - part of WM Housing Group – called on Crown Paints Specification Services to find a solution to preserve and protect the space.

Following a site visit, Sadolin Classic was specified for the project. A highly versatile woodstain ideal for decking, cladding and fencing, the product

absorbs deep into the timber providing exceptional protection against the elements.

Paul Bowkett, Surveyor at Optima Community Association, has overseen the project. He said: “The restoration has taken no time at all and has gone really well.

“We’re more than happy with the product and the fact that the decking will be protected for a longer period of time.

“The invaluable knowledge we’ve received from Crown Paints has also been a major benefit.” National property maintenance specialist Novus Property Solutions, carried out the application.

Sadolin Enquiry 35

year/100,000 mile warranty, whichever model you choose, it will be fit for purpose.

Wheels of Business

StarGreen is the new name in machinery

Vale Engineering (York) Limited a leading manufacturer of winter maintenance and municipal weed control equipment has entered the amenity sports turf equipment market by launching a new brand of machinery under the name of StarGreen.

“StarGreen products are built in-house at the York factory and will be sold exclusively through dealers,” explains James Wilson, Managing Director at Vale.

“The StarGreen range will start with sprayers including tractor mounted and trailed together with truck mounted sprayers for the ProGator and Workman type vehicles and then will expand to other complimentary machinery such as top dressers and aerators.

“Due to the nature of our machines we have previously manufactured and the customers supplied we have typically sold directly, however we predict this

market to be larger and more suited to being supplied through a dealer network. We are now actively building relationships which we are looking forward to growing over the forthcoming years.”

“StarGreen machines are designed to be uncomplicated and user friendly, have a high quality finish with realistic pricing to extend to all potential markets. We have looked at our competitors and have identified various features which will help the operator without increasing the overall cost of the machine, for example we have included a boom catch to hold the booms closed and secure when in transport, hose guides to ensure the booms fold and unfold without fouling the hose and to make sure the hose doesn’t obstruct the spray pattern, bout marker droppers are secured in place with stainless steel clamps rather than just bolted on.

“Also stainless steel induction bowls and clean water tank/ clothing lockers on the pro sprayers for quality. We believe in putting thought into the design to make sure that the operator has a user friendly spraying experience and this will be what stands us apart from our competitors.”

Vale has established itself as a manufacturer of high-

quality, robust and easy to use equipment. Its reputation has been built since its inception in 1999, when it first entered the municipal market. Since then, some of the company’s products have become recognised as clear market leaders - including the PKL Spraying System and TS1200 High Speed Trailer Salt Spreader.

Vale Engineering Enquiry

New Euroflor and Solo releases

Rigby Taylor has launched two new Euroflor Urban seed mixtures for spring sowing.

37

In addition, the company is promoting SOLO, a portable spreader designed for quick, easy and more convenient spreading of a range of materials over uneven and rough ground and difficult to access terrain compared to a wheeled spreader.

Materials include both flower and grass seed as well as fertilizer and salt.

The new Urban seed mixtures include Celebrate, a 30 species mix of red, white and blue patriotic colours for special celebratory events; sowing in the

months April–May will provide flowering well into November.

The other is a special blue flowering mixture combining the four most attractive species into one simple mix “Super Blue Bee”, the aim of which is to provide an enriched nectar and pollen mix for Honey and Bumble bees. This mixture in addition to being visually very attractive is ideal for anyone with an interest in conserving our depleting bee populations as well as beekeepers.

Both seed mixtures are available in 1 kg packs enough to cover an area up to 350 sq.metres.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 38

NEED SPACE? HAVE SOME ON US.

Superior salads with Stewart Garden

When it comes to getting more space, sometimes the answer is right before your eyes. With a 1.6 tonne body and payload allowance and 2 metre cab width, the Canter 3.5t gives you the capacity to carry heavy loads to places other Light Commercial vehicles can’t. All without a special driving licence or driver training. And now with more affordable parts, it’s better for business. It’s a win-win combination.

Explore space in more detail at canter.co.uk/space or call 0800 055 6050

Stewart Garden offers planters as a fantastic alternative to buying salads at supermarkets, by growing your own vegetables without the need to dig up the garden.

High quality plastics make these planters durable and

resistant to frosts and ultra violet rays. This means they’ll keep their shape and their colour whatever weather elements are thrown at them.

Stewart Garden Enquiry 39

CWC London invests in new equipment

As business continues to rapidly increase, Simon Akerman, Complete Weed Control area manager for London South East, London Central and London North East has invested in a range of new equipment to keep operations at the highest possible standard.

Simon, who has been with Complete Weed Control for over eight years, was internally promoted to the position of area manager in 2014.

His team is now responsible for spraying four of the boroughs in London with the possibility of adding a fifth one. So he has just purchased four new vans and three new Weed-IT machines.

Weed-IT is the most advanced application equipment currently available for weed control on pavements and hard surfaces. It is a computer controlled herbicide application system

consisting of a shrouded spraying head mounted on the front of a purpose built articulated carrier vehicle.

Within the shrouded head are sensor units which detect the presence of weeds and trigger the appropriate spray nozzles to apply accurately the correct amount of herbicide just to those weeds and their immediate surroundings.

Weed-IT not only produces exceptionally high levels of weed control but it significantly reduces herbicide usage and guarantees greater safety for the operator and the public alike.

Complete Weed Control Enquiry 41

FUSO –A Daimler

Group Brand

Keep rotary blades sharp for most efficient cut

“Spring sees groundsmen tackle large areas of grass much more frequently than other times of the year; activity that can quickly dull rotary blades down.

Michael Hampton, Turfcare Parts Manager at Lely Turfcare, has advised groundsmen that sharp, well-maintained rotary blades are the key to the most efficient and productive cut.

And with the new season’s flourish of grass growth fast approaching, Michael says now’s the time to raise awareness of ensuring blades are sharp, as well as the importance of inspecting mowers for signs of blade wear.

“If councils or landscape contractors don’t have sufficient stock or aren’t visually inspecting their blades frequently, the situation can quickly lead to serious issues during spring and summer, when footfall and the use of grounds increases,” he explains.

Toro’s rotary mowers cut grass by impacting the blade cutting edge against the grass blades at a very high velocity. This cutting action requires that the blade cutting edge is sharp.

“Preparation is vital,” says Michael. “To keep on top of upkeep while mowers are being used more often, I recommend Toro users stock up on replacement rotary blades, ready for any issues that may crop up from blade wear.”

Michael goes on to outline the best course of action should signs of wear be identified during inspection, and why spares are extremely useful: “When signs of wear are identified, the blade must be immediately replaced before it’s used again. This prevents unnecessary damage to the machine and ensures operator safety,” he advises.

With the coming months being an ideal time to stock up, Lely is offering end users a 10 percent discount on any Genuine Toro rotary blades bought from 1st to 31st May this year.

Available in Atomic, Standard and Combo blade options, suitable for the entire Toro Groudscare range, end users can take advantage of the discount through their local genuine Toro parts dealer or service centre, while stocks last.

Lely Turfcare Enquiry 42

Adezz are perfect planters

The Adezz range of Polymer Concrete planters from The Pot Company is ideal for use in public areas.

The material is a moulded stone composite which is highly compressed making it extremely strong and weather resistant.

The planters are 100% waterproof meaning they are highly frost resistant and do not hold dirt. The range comes in a wide variety of styles and sizes in either black grey or light grey.

The Pot Company Enquiry 43

New Sudstech paving offers unrivalled porosity

Sudstech is one of the latest porous paving products introduced to the SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Solutions) market, with the impressive ability to transfer up to 50,000 litres of water per square metre per hour.

The highly porous, lowmaintenance material is created using sustainable products and is designed to allow the natural infiltration method of the water cycle for an easy and environmentally-friendly drainage system.

Suitable for all private and public applications, including domestic driveways, public footpaths, golf clubs and car parks, Sudstech can be used as an alternative to standard asphalt hard landscaping

materials, whilst offering the same aesthetics and durability as some of the most established products in the market, with the added benefit of a cost-effective water management service.

The porous material is created using natural stones sourced in the UK and can be specified in a wide range of colours and

finishes, offering a solution to complement or contrast with any architectural colour scheme.

The coloured stones are combined with a specially developed resin, which allows rainfall to evenly saturate through the surface into the ground and eventually finding its way to the water course.

Sudstech Enquiry 44

The Cushman 1600XD lives to conquer any job. There’s no task too big for the 22-hp diesel engine, 1,600-lb payload and massive cargo bed.

And no matter where work needs to be done, you’ll get there thanks to user-selectable 4WD, a locking rear differential and 4-wheel independent suspension. So, whether you’re moving mountains or driving over them, the 1600XD is ready for action.

Let’s Work

Toro prides itself on its secondto-none parts back up so when Lely’s parts manager Phil Bowen retired after over 35 years providing outstanding service and a wealth of product knowledge to customers, Lely knew it had big shoes to fill.

Michael Hampton has five years experience as a technical parts advisor for Lely’s Toro Irrigation portfolio of turfcare products so he had the background for the job. He had also been watching “the best at work” in Phil and was ready to take on a more involved role within the parts department.

“In taking on the mantel from Phil as Turfcare Parts Manager I knew I was taking on a key role with some big responsibilities,” says Michael. “I’ve always worked in distribution and having been at Lely for a few years I had a good understanding of the sector and was ready for the next step.”

Since Michael took on the role he has seen the department through some significant changes. “I’ve been in the role for six months now and in that time we have streamlined resources and merged our irrigation and parts support teams together. This consolidated resource allows us to focus on our relationships with our customers.”

As well as managing the department to ensure best possible service, Michael also has a focus on visiting Toro dealers and customers promoting the importance of a well-stocked workshop to keep machines in top working condition to prevent unnecessary downtime.

Michael is keen to stress that while many golf clubs have plenty of storage space, some do not, and certainly in the groundscare sector this can be an issue for councils and landscape contractors. However, with Lely’s 24-hour guaranteed delivery, unnecessary downtime can be a thing of the past for their customers in all marketplaces.

“This is an exciting new challenge and I’m keen to get to know the dealers and customers to ensure their parts needs are met,” Michael comments.

Sherriff Amenity continues to support BASIS Education

Sherriff Amenity, a leading supplier of professional amenity products and provider of specialist advice, once again demonstrated its commitment to education by hosting the BASIS Foundation Award in Amenity and Horticulture at BTME 2016.

The course covers various modules such as Professional Pesticides, Application of Pesticides, Protecting People, Animals and the Environment, Hard/Permeable Surfaces, Turf and Borders, Weeds Control, Disease Control and Pest Control.

It enables all candidates to make more educated decisions

regarding the use and choice of products they are using for a wide range of scenarios they may come across. The course is also a great stepping stone for anyone who may wish to take the full Basis Qualifi cation in the future.

The BASIS Foundation Award in Amenity and Horticulture has been a resounding success at the exhibition over recent years with an impressive pass rate. This success continued at BTME 2016, with a 100% pass rate for the third consecutive year from everyone who participated.

Sherriff Amenity Enquiry 46

CWC launches new websites

The Complete Group has launched of a range of newly designed websites for each of its unique services including Complete Weed Control, Complete Ice Control, Complete Invasives Control and Complete Moss Control.

The new websites have been designed to provide the ultimate user-friendly experience with improved navigation and functionality throughout, allowing

customers to access detailed service information and videos as well having the opportunity of geographically searching for teams closest to them.

The sites include extensive information to help customers understand the Complete Group’s comprehensive range of solutions.

Complete Weed Control Enquiry 48

Council choose Ransomes certified pre-owned equipment

Dennington Parish Council have taken delivery of a Ransomes Parkway 3 triple mower with Magna cutting units.

The new mower, which replaces the Parish Council’s existing Ransomes Parkway 2250, will help maintain Dennington’s village green and community sports field.

Longstanding Ransomes Jacobsen dealer, Bartram Mowers, delivered the mower at the beginning of this season.

Purchased using Ransome’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) scheme, the Parkway 3 has been completely refurbished at Ransomes European manufacturing facility in Ipswich, using the same parts and assemblies as standard equipment lines. All CPO equipment is given a multi-point inspection and backed by a one-year factory warranty.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

49

Lely’s parts department says a fond farewell to Phil Bowen

Lely Turfcare Enquiry 47

ANS Global expands its living walls network

Due to increasing demand in the Middle East, ANS Global - a leading market provider specialising in the design and installation of living walls - has launched its service in Dubai, UAE.

The company is working alongside Dubai-based interior landscaping company Plantscapes who facilitates the

supply and installation of the green walls at a local level.

A growing trend in Dubai, living walls of plants provide the opportunity to transform any vertical surface, inside or out, offering the ability to improve energy efficiency and, act as a powerful noise and pollution filter.

ANS Global Enquiry 52

Plantscape decorates town with a patriotic display

Plantscape has signed deals to supply just over 400 of the elevated planters to brighten Loughborough’s streets, main roads and roundabouts as part of the 2016 Loughborough In Bloom campaign.

One order, for 207 hanging baskets as well as eight window box troughs, has been placed by green space management company Quadron Services, which maintains the town’s open spaces on behalf of Charnwood Borough Council.

A further 200 of the planters, along with 25 window troughs, have been ordered by the Loughborough Business

Improvement District organisation Love Loughborough and will be situated in the town centre itself.

It will also help Loughborough to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s 90th Birthday year because threequarters of them will be planted with red, white and blue flowers, providing a patriotic backdrop to a series of birthday events taking place in June.

The flowers will be planted up in Plantscape’s nursery in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, in April and the display will be installed in June.

Plantscape Enquiry 54

New stone effect self-watering planter launched

A new self-watering planter that looks just like a stone trough but which is actually recyclable plastic has been launched this month by horticultural suppliers Amberol.

Almost a year in development, the stone trough is believed to be the only self-watering container on the market that is made of a

form of plastic, but which looks just like an authentic stone trough. It has been designed to add a classic, heritage style to fl oral displays in public areas such as parks, pavements and historical buildings.

The new stone trough is made from recyclable polyethylene,

like all of Amberol’s containers, and has the same self-watering Aquafeed technology which means that it needs to be watered no more than once a week.

The planter measures 105 cm x 60cm with a height of 44cm and has the surface texture of

real stone. Standing almost 4cm off the floor, it can be moved by forklift although the feet are hidden.

Bright Spark offer new lighting solution

The new Solar Walkway Light 500 is the latest product to be released in a range of exciting solar powered LED lights from Bright Spark Solar.

Designed for pole mounting, the Solar Walkway Light 500 provides a powerful independent lighting solution using free solar energy, and is ideal for numerous applications including gardens, parks, hotels, marinas, camp sites, holiday parks, farms and any location where connection to the mains is not readily available.

Using the latest advanced technology in solar panels, lithium-ion batteries and LED lighting, the Solar Walkway Light 500 produces a powerful 500 lumens of useful light from its 24 super-bright LEDs. When dusk falls, an integrated light sensor switches the light on at 500 lumens for five hours, then dimming by 25% until dawn.

An in-built PIR sensor triggers

the light to the full 500 lumens when any motion is detected within fi ve metres and a 120 degree field.

This professional luminaire is designed with a stylish aluminium alloy body, is weatherproof to IP65, and measures 505mm long x 227mm wide and just 164mm deep. Using the sun’s energy for free light, this independent lighting solution means that there is no need to dig trenches, lay power cables and call in an expensive electrician to wire up to the mains.

Once the Solar Walkway Light 500 is installed in an unshaded position, just eleven hours of bright sunlight is all that is required to charge the luminaire to provide three nights of continuous lighting. A 1000 lumen version of the Solar Walkway Light is also available.

Amberol Enquiry 55

Bright Spark Enquiry 53

Pub opens on time for launch thanks to NCC Streetscape

A stunning looking project that was completed and opened successfully ahead of deadline benefitted from using GftK’s vdw 850+ from NCCStreetscape Ltd.

It was specified for the landscaping works as part of the redevelopment and scheduled opening of the prestige George & Dragon Pub in Dartmouth, Devon.

Despite almost continuous rain and gale force winds the black limestone and granite sett paving was able to be completed and successfully jointed using GftK’s vdw 850+, safely in time for the scheduled VIP Reception and Opening Night in midNovember.

Paul McGeary the Managing Director of Main Contractor, Building & Design Services Ltd., said: “With any other paving grout system this would have been impossible and a disaster for everybody because of the terrible weather.

“Without NCC Streetscape’s advice and the vdw 850+ Jointing Mortar, this fl agship Gastro-Pub redevelopment by Heavitree Brewery PLC would also never have been fi nished and open for their important trading month running up to Christmas and New Year - and then we would all have still been discussing penalties and trying to get paid.”

60

Charcon materials used for flagship scheme

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has collaborated on a top London residential project, Trafalgar Place in Elephant & Castle, which is being hailed by The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson MP for design innovation and longevity.

The project, part of a wider £1.5 billion, 28 acre regeneration scheme to upgrade and reconnect Elephant & Castle with the mostly derelict Heygate Estate, saw an office block converted into a development of 235 homes.

With a brief to create a quality urban residential space, Charcon was consulted to recommend approximately 3,500m2 of hard landscaping options that would establish a strong relationship between the green spaces of both the private communal and public areas, to the adjacent buildings and edges.

A total of 1,840m2 of Charcon’s Andover Textured flag and block paving in Midnight Grey, Silver Grey and Light Grey was supplied, offering a premium quality block paving product at an affordable price. Pairing the unique three colour blend with five different block sizes specified Andover Textured offers an eye-

catching design solution that runs throughout all of the main treelined avenues of the scheme.

A further 1,050m2 of premium Appalachian flag paving in Leemoor Ground was used for an upper private courtyard podium. Incorporating up to 60% recycled and reclaimed materials, the uniquely formulated granite aggregates offer exceptional performance and durability.

Charcon’s technical specialists also created a bespoke product for the project, producing 250m2 of ‘Special’ Appalachian Leemoor. Using a double process prior to sandblasting to expose a greater amount of aggregate, the end product was a unique polished and sandblasted finish which, when laid alongside the Leemoor Ground, created a distinctive contrast of textures within the private courtyard.

In addition, 100 linear metres of hard wearing Natural Granite kerbs and radii in Silver Grey were incorporated to create features throughout the scheme, and 240m2 of Europa block paving in Brindle was the ideal solution for the heavy-use pedestrianised areas.

Charcon Enquiry 59

StablePAVE TRADE gravel grids

Hardscape Resourcing Limited announce the introduction of their new and improved gravel grids for 2016.

All are now produced in a user friendly panel size of 1.200 x 0.800 mtr with an extra strength weed suppressant membrane attached to the base and built in UV resistance.

StablePAVE TRADE for pedestrian and light vehicle

applications is available in both 30mm and 40 mm depths. Fully tested to handle compressive loadings of up to 180 tonnes per sq. mtr.

StablePAVE TRADE is an effective and competitive permeable paving solution for paths, patios, parking areas and driveways.

Hardscape Resourcing Enquiry 58

Pedestrian guardrail improves caravan site entrance safety

The owners of Stonebridge Farm Caravan Park have chosen metal railings and gates manufacturer Alpha Rail to supply pedestrian guardrail for its main entrance.

Stonebridge Farm Caravan Park is located in Banwell, North Somerset and has been in operation since the 1970s, as a diversification to the farm business.

Each year facilities are updated and improved and one of the most recent improvements included the upgrading of the vehicular main entrance to install a security gate and pedestrian guardrail panels.

The aim was to guide cars to the approved entrance and to prevent visitors from driving

through adjacent fields to circumnavigate the main barrier. The improvements have also created a safety barrier between the entrance road and a path used by pedestrians.

In total Alpha Rail has supplied 40 type M1 1050mm high pedestrian guardrails with a solid infill bar.

With nearly 30 years’ experience, Alpha Rail is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of pedestrian guardrail. Their range includes: Standard pedestrian guardrail; Optirail high visibility guardrail; Decorative pedestrian guardrails; and Pedestrian Parapet Guardrail.

Rail Enquiry 61

NCC Streetscape Enquiry

Alpha

Trailflex leads the way to historic school

New Hall School, a longestablished Catholic boarding and day school, and former Tudor palace, has recently installed a new 1.5km entrance pathway using Langford Direct Ltd’s specialist Trailflex flexible porous paving system.

Trailflex was specified for the project due to its ability to adapt to the contours of the terrain, whilst requiring very minimal disturbance to the landscape.

Applied in a Silver Stone finish, the compact resin bound material also presents a surface that complements the aesthetics of the historic site, whilst giving the illusion of a natural gravel path.

Trailflex was applied to the 1.5km pedestrian and cycle path which runs parallel to the school’s main road entrance. The tree-lined pathway carries a preservation order requiring the trees to be untouched or undisturbed during any groundwork carried out. Requiring just 150mm of digging, the application was able to avoid all damage or contact to the tree roots.

Another key benefit of Trailflex for the school is its flexible qualities, which will allow the material to flex with any movement of tree roots without creating any damage to the surface.

The material is created using recycled car tyres to give it the flexibility, if needed, to bend to 90° and cover any tree roots that may rise to the surface, for a solid and seamless finish. This not only eliminates the trip hazard of large cracks to pedestrians, but ensures the pathway will not deteriorate and compromise its appearance.

Trailflex is also SUDS compliant and offers a porous alternative to standard asphalt surfacing material. The rubber aggregate is bound using a specialist resin binder to create an unrivalled porous paving solution that can filter up to 50,000 litres of water per square metre of surface per hour to offer the fast and efficient natural drainage of rainwater.

With full 360° attenuation Trailflex allows rainwater to percolate naturally back to the water table to replenish the groundwater that is needed for the tree roots and surrounding plants to thrive, which will ultimately prevent them from rising to the surface in search of moisture.

Trailflex is a one-part cold pour system and can be applied to new or existing landscapes using minimal equipment and a time efficient process.

66

StableGRASS MAXI

grass grids

Hardscape Resourcing Limited have launched the StableGRASS MAXI Grass Grid in XL panels of 1.200 x 0.800 mtr x 50 mm deep, which facilitates very productive installations rates, and solid, heavy duty ground reinforcement for trafficked grass paving.

The large unit size substantially reduces installation time for larger

areas, and superior compressive loading capacity can handle regular to constant vehicular access with ease. StableGRASS MAXI is a sister product of the well-established StableGRASS 38 grass grid and StableDRIVE gravel grid systems.

Hardscape Resourcing Enquiry 64

Winning formula for Kelkay retailers

Kelkay’s

The Borderstone range includes many of the country’s favourite patio kits, stepping stones, edgings and walling. And retailers are maximising their sales of these products thanks to Kelkay’s innovative merchandising which includes the sophisticated See It

bestselling colours, antique and York gold. The circles look great on their own or incorporated into an Abbey Paving Patio using Kelkay’s squaring off kit.

Kelkay has extended its popular Granite Cobble Mat Sets collection with a new granite mat quarter circle. Available in both light and dark grey and ideal for creating a feature circle or decorative path,

New additions to StableEDGE range

StableEDGE flexible aluminium edge restraints from Hardscape Resourcing Limited, are now available in 8 depths, from 18mm to 150mm.

Applications ranging from asphalt paving, resin bonded surfaces and poured rubber to precast or clay pavers and gravel

containment all benefit from this unobtrusive, secure and cost effective edging solution. In addition to the standard range, HRL also offer custom made Edgings, Upstands and Raised Beds in Stainless Steel.

Hardscape Resourcing Enquiry 67

Langford Direct Enquiry

Borderstone range is leading the field in high impact, low maintenance paving.

Stormwater Management demonstrates Versicell system

Versicell is a lightweight, high strength, interlocking module that provides excellent subsoil drainage and water storage for roof gardens, planters and landscaped decks.

The benefits of Versicell include rapid capture and discharge of surplus water, along with high water storage capacity. It enables the effective return of stored water to planting

via geotextile wicks, allows greater soil depths for a wider variety of plants and is able to withstand pedestrian and light vehicle traffic

For more information on Versicell contact the sales office on 01455 502222 or visit www.storm-water.co.uk.

Mangement Enquiry 69

Otterbine’s Gemini adds striking focal point to lake

A Gemini aerating fountain from water specialist Otterbine has transformed a lake at the Ballycoolin branch of digital printing company Xerox in Dublin.

Chosen by facilities management company Acacia and supplied by irrigation specialists Aquaturf Solutions, the 3HP surface spray aerator was favoured for its dual ability to circulate the water, which was at risk of becoming stagnant when the previous 12-year old fountain broke, and provide a striking feature for the canteen diners overlooking the lake on the business park to enjoy.

Gavin Osborne, facilities engineer at Acacia who had the job of researching and finding the perfect fountain, says: “We’d been looking into the right fountain for three to four months before we were recommended the Gemini by a colleague who’d recently installed one at a local golf club. With the reference and photos he provided it was looking good that we’d found the one to fit the bill.”

Irrigatia offers automatic solution

Irrigatia is the only fully automatic solar powered watering system in Europe.

Unlike electronic timer systems that deliver water at a set time, regardless as to whether the plant needs it, this solar powered kit automatically judges their needs and waters every three hours.

The longer the daylight hours and the greater the light intensity in a day the more the system

waters. The volume of water can be manually adjusted to suit individual watering needs.

Irrigatia uses up to 90% less water than a hose or sprinkler and because the drip feeding point is at the soil level, there is no risk of scorching or burning foliage.

The water comes direct from a nearby water butt and, if these are not available, a reservoir can be purchased. Liquid feed can also be added to the watering process.

In addition to glasshouses, Irrigatia is ideal for containers, hanging baskets or street/ building displays, vegetable gardens and allotments. All that is needed is an adjacent water supply and somewhere to hang the solar panel and control box to capture maximum sunlight which it stores in rechargeable batteries.

Irrigatia

Enquiry 71

According to Gavin the Gemini ticked all the boxes: “It was important we found something with a practical purpose to maintain a clean and clear lake and provide an attractive focal point in the commercial landscape of the business park.”

As functional as it is beautiful, the power of the Gemini, which was installed by Aquaturf Solutions, allows it to move over three times more water than decorative pattern fountains, yet its simple beauty provides an appealing aesthetic.

“The level of power and spray were exactly what we were looking for,” says Gavin. “The water is kept aerated and healthy and the 1.5m vertical spray pattern is really striking.”

And with that Gavin perfectly summed up the Gemini, for with it you do not have to sacrifice the pretty for the practical.

Otterbine Enquiry 70

Rigby Taylor solves water management problems

The HydroPro-2 advanced nonionic reverse block polymer wetting agent for the control of Dry Patch and water-related problems in amenity turf has been launched by Rigby Taylor.

The application of HydroPro-2 ensures the even distribution of moisture through the soil and maintains plant usable reserves of water applied either by rainfall or irrigation.

HydroPro-2 also improves the wetting consistency between treatments to result in dry and firm playing surfaces while also controlling and preventing Dry Patch.

Research and user experience has demonstrated that a programmed approach to the application of wetting agents has proved consistently the best method for keeping the soil profile hydrated and reduces the wet/dry cycle

that promotes the build-up of hydrophobic soils.

HydroPro-2 – which contains block polymers based on ethylene oxide and propylene oxide - is supplied in 10-litre packs which will treat 5,000-7,500 m2

Rigby Taylor Enquiry

73

Stormwater

Lely brings insider knowledge to irrigation team

Lely Turfcare is set to strengthen its Toro irrigation and Otterbine aeration sales team with a prestigious new appointment.

Pete Newton, currently course manager at Rockliffe Hall golf course, is to join Lely’s sales team mid-April. Bringing with him a wealth of sector knowledge and experience, Pete will be covering North England and Scotland for Toro irrigation golf and sports sales, and nationwide for Otterbine sales.

Having begun his career as a trainee greenkeeper at Rochdale Golf Club in 1997, Pete studied for a HND in Turf Science and Golf Course Management.

After building up experience across numerous courses, including Marriott facilities Forest of Arden and Worsley Park, and the Brabazon Course at The Belfry, he joined Rockliffe in 2008 as head greenkeeper.

During Pete’s time at Rockliffe, which saw him progress to his current role as course manager, he became the 66th BIGGA member to achieve Master Greenkeeper status in 2015.

Pete’s career has seen him operate a range of Toro machinery and irrigation systems, as well as a series of Otterbine aeration systems installed in Rockliffe’s trio of lakes; all of which have

been supplied by Lely over the years.

Robert Jackson, irrigation field sales manager at Lely Turfcare, says: “Pete is very wellnetworked in the greenkeeping circles. Couple that with his background and knowledge of the industry, and we believe he’ll do fantastically well in his new role. Pete really understands course conditions, and will be able to advise from an agronomic and irrigation point of view.”

Mirroring Robert’s sentiments, Pete adds: “I hope my overall greenkeeping experiences, not only in irrigation but across all aspects of the job, will help people improve their surfaces. The greenkeeping community are great at helping each other with new ideas, so I look forward to advising others and passing my knowledge onto other turf disciplines.”

Continuing, Pete explains what attracted him to the role: “The chance to remain working within the turf industry, yet with a more diverse range of sports, is what initially attracted me to the job.

“Also, knowing how good the range of Toro irrigation systems is, especially the Infinity sprinklers, drew me to the position.”

Lely Turfcare Enquiry 75

Early start stops stress

Starting wetting agent programmes earlier this spring will aid faster recovery of turf quality, and ensure plants remain healthier through the summer.

Syngenta turf technical manager, Marcela Munoz, highlighted the benefit of deep and even soil moisture holding in the root zone early in the season would be especially important where prolonged dry spring weather in recent years had seriously affected root growth and plant recovery.

Using the company’s new Qualibra technology combines the chance to create firmer, faster playing surfaces, along with improved growing conditions for turf.

“Furthermore, Qualibra will help turf plants make the most effective use of available moisture where turf managers are reluctant to initiate early irrigation, for fear of creating

soft surfaces or triggering disease,” she added.

Where the unique formulation of Qualibra performs differently to other wetting agents is the combination of moving surface water down, to maintain firm and fast surfaces, along with holding soil water lower in the root zone to enhance conditions

for root and plant health. New 2016 recommendations for Qualibra use on fairways advises starting the programme at 20 l/ ha, and then repeating at six week intervals at a lower rate of 15 l/ha. This early-start approach ensures turf and soils get the same beneficial total application rate, but over an extended season for consistent results.

Trials have shown that Qualibra programmes can give an 11% improved uptake of applied nutrients – which is beneficial to the plant and reduces any environmental loss through groundwater.

Syngenta

Enquiry 74

Speedcut contractors help play continue

Speedcut Contractors have helped play continue at The Club Company golf courses after installing drainage at three of the sites.

Chartham Park, Benton Hall and Castle Royle golf clubs all underwent drainage improvements on problem areas, helping to reduce the threat of course closure across the courses.

Speedcut discussed, surveyed and then designed specific drainage schemes to match the needs of all three courses, whilst considering budget requirements and finding the optimum time to carry out the work to cause the least disruption.

Contractors Enquiry 76

Speedcut

Spaldings introduce new ranges of spreaders and sprinklers

Spaldings have introduced a range of SPYKER heavy duty commercial push spreaders.

The quality and range of these spreaders is unrivalled in the industry and offers a choice for every size of project or job.

This powerful, quality driven line features the option of stainless steel frames and hoppers. They are matched with metal gear systems (with a life time warranty) and durable hardware to provide years of smooth and consistent performance.

ACCU-WAY ( a SPYKER innovation) supports the proper consistent distribution of material

being applied. Adjustable in seconds ACCU-WAY assists you in preventing overspreading and striping of turf.

SPALDINGS have also introduced an extensive new range of GEKA sprinklers renowned throughout the industry as being the best there is. With outstanding precision manufacturing the end user is given a high quality sprinkler for medium and high density watering for many professional applications.

new Spaldings ranges have it all covered.

School gives their wickets a kick into spring

St Paul’s School, in South West London, is a selective independent school with abundant sports areas, including three cricket squares.

James Pope, Grounds Manager, took charge in May 2014 and realised that there were opportunities for a more comprehensive maintenance programme.

All the sports facilities at the site are high multi-use sites. Cricket dominates the summer term, but despite the level of activity the squares had to endure, James felt that there was scope for a more rigorous fertiliser programme.

Alex Hawkes, of Headland Amenity, recommended MultiVerdo, micro-prilled

potassium nitrate which was first applied in March 2015 to give the ground a much needed boost. The results were just what was expected, providing even growth, fantastic colour and a dense sward and James was really happy with it.

For the winter feeding regime, James turned to Headland’s 20:20:30 mix to maximise plant health, colour and minimise disease and Multigreen 120-43 temperature controlled release fertiliser to give spring carry over. Both MultiVerdo and Multigreen are sulphur free products, ideal for James as the soil analysis revealed high levels of sulphur on the squares.

Headland Amenity Enquiry 79

A new gem for weed control

Pearl is a brand new herbicide to hit the UK market this spring which will offer more choice for operators across the country.

Agrigem Managing Director

Kieran Would explains: “With the spotlight well & truly on glyphosate, & operators looking at alternative products, now is the ideal

time to be considering the application or Pearl.

“Pearl contains 150g/l glufosinate ammonium which offers excellent control of most annual, perennial & grass weeds, along with a useful recommendation for Horsetail control. Its rapid knockdown means that results can be seen within 48 hours which is around 5 times quicker than most glyphosate based products.

“Although Pearl is mainly a contact herbicide, there is also some translaminar movement within the plant (moving around the leaf). Stems of trees & shrubs are largely un-affected by a treatment of Pearl, although care should be taken as some speckling may occur. This can be especially useful when negotiating around wanted vegetation.

“Pearl is the only glufosinateammonium product on the market that will be available in

Green-tree Topsoil

500ml & 5L containers which can offer savings & flexibility to operators.

“We are also running a competition to give away a free set of Pearl earrings, all you need to do is answer 5 questions about the product. Details can be found on social media.”

Pearl™ is readily available and can be dispatched overnight for delivery across the UK. Quick facts:

• Glufosinate-ammonium is the only product approved for Horsetail control on hard surfaces

• Safer than glyphosate when sprayed near wanted vegetation

• Line marking approval

• Non-glyphosate based total weed killer

• Effective results within 48 hours

• Available in two pack sizes

The

Spaldings Enquiry 78

Agrigem Enquiry 80

today play&activity

New hub to support Schools Get Active

Poor quality playgrounds and outside spaces may be holding schools back in the battle to tackle physical inactivity and childhood obesity.

Well-designed, high quality facilities for outdoor play and learning, sport, PE and physical activity make a huge impact on school life, children’s educational experiences, health and wellbeing.

To help schools provide more opportunities for children to be active, the Association

of Play Industries (API) has created Schools Get Active – an online hub packed with useful tips and advice guides, resources and inspiring case studies.

API Chair Mark Hardy says: “More and more schools are approaching API members asking for creative solutions to get children moving more throughout the school day, not just in PE and sport.

“We wanted to provide a great place for schools to find

advice and inspiration to help them make the very most of their outside spaces. We’re surprised that some schools still risk using non API play companies.

“Choosing an API member guarantees peace of mind because it means working with a professional, reputable, experienced and financially stable company, backed by a professional association that is committed to raising industry standards.”

Recent research by the API showed that more than six in ten (61.4%) parents feel that schools should be given more funding for better playground facilities and equipment.

The API is the lead trade body within the UK play sector and campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition for the value of play.

Holiday Park adds Timberplay cliff top play park

Located just a ten minute walk from Whitby’s iconic Abbey, perched upon the cliff top you will find Whitby Holiday Park.

With magnificent views across the North Sea, Whitby Holiday Park is busy throughout their entire season.

Seeking to differentiate themselves from the many alternative holiday parks in the area, the park management decided that children’s play was a very effective way in which they could increase their appeal to family visitors.

They came to Children’s Play Specialist, Timberplay, to create a play area of distinction, and one that was durable enough to withstand the extreme weather of their cliff top location.

With a budget of £90,000 they managed to create a

play area with extensive play opportunities including water and sand play, challenging pieces like the Hexagonal Tower, and high energy

elements for example the Whirlwind, or the Sailing Boat, moored at the play marina with play huts and springy stepping stones and

New play area to be built at

Grafham Water

Sutcliffe Play has been appointed by Anglian Water Services to design and install a £35,000 playground following an extensive design and build tender process.

Work starts on the play area at Grafham Water in May, and will become a key attraction at the Visitor Centre appealing to young children and families as a destination picnic and play area

Sutcliffe Play’s design features ’Sand Play’ equipment suitable for a wide age range, including inclusive play facilities for children of all abilities to play side-by-side, and will complement the natural surroundings of the play area.

The play area will include a Sandwork multi-play unit, to encourage interactive and social play, with sand diggers giving children of all ages the

freedom to excavate and create in the sand. Springy pods, designed specifically to develop balance and coordination, and Kinderland stilts to offer more challenging play, will complete the play area.

“At Grafham Water Park, we are extremely excited to be working with Sutcliffe Play to create a fantastic new children’s play area just in time for the summer. The new ‘sand play’ area is sure to be a big hit with thousands of families which visit Grafham Water on an annual basis.” Says Angela Tarry, Grafham Water & Northants Parks Manager.

The new play area is conveniently located near to the current play area in Marlow Car Park, the Visitor Centre and Cycle Hire Centre. Work is scheduled to begin May 2016.

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 85

Your essential guide for Sports & Playground Equipment in association with

'This is a great example of families being able to exercise and get healthy together. What was a derelict area of tarmac, has had this spectacular makeover and is now going to be great for all generations, for generations to come' Councillor Vivienne Lukey, London borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.

seaworthy enough to take to the stormiest seas.

Timberplay Enquiry 84

The evolution of Snug

Sutcliffe Play has given Snug, the large scale, flexible, loose parts play system a comprehensive makeover with a new name, a new colour scheme and a new piece of equipment.

Working with Snug & Outdoor, the original designer of the playground equipment, Sutcliffe Play has relaunched the kit as Snug Evolution.

Snug Evolution’s new colour scheme will transform playgrounds into dynamic and creative playscapes for children to explore, create, discover and learn.

The kit is designed to encourage social interaction, co-operation and problem solving and comprises 10 inter-related, colourful shapes which can be moved, joined and arranged by children to create new environments for play every time it’s used.

Sutcliffe Play has also introduced even more play opportunities with the introduction of a new piece of equipment. The Cog can be used to create pathways or can be linked to other elements using Snug Noodles. It can also be used as a building block as it fits over both the Bump and the Cone easily.

Andy Love from Sutcliffe Play says: “Snug launched 8 years ago and was the result of a 15 year process of research and evaluation by Snug & Outdoor into the way that children behave, react and play in specific environments.

“Since then Snug has transformed many playgrounds across the world including in schools, leisure attractions and even hotels.

“We’ve also seen Snug play an important role in schools as part of Physical Literacy from foundation to key stage 2. With the addition of our Physical Literacy Resource kit, Snug Evolution stimulates natural exercise and embodies fundamental movement skills.”

Snug Evolution is weather proof and requires no installation or safety surfacing. It is soft and tactile yet robust enough to withstand the rigours of the playground

Andy Love concludes: “Snug Evolution allows children to take control of their play and helps them to learn through physical and imaginative play.”

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 88

Timberplay introduces Vica SL as their new skate partner

Timberplay are pleased to announce that they are partnering Vica SL, one of the UK’s top manufacturers and installers of skate and sports equipment.

Both Timberplay and Vica SL are both part of Create Partnerships, the umbrella brand established to bring together the best in urban design for the external environment.

Vica SL is one of the UK’s top manufacturers and installers of steel skate products and thanks to the new partnership are now the country’s sole supplier of the pre-cast outdoor skate range, Concrete.

The steel range includes a large number of traditional skate ramps, from quarter pipes and half pipes to grind rails and wave ramps – all of which can be designed to form a bespoke skate park depending on the customers’ needs and budget.

The German-manufactured Concrete products have been

on the European market for over 18 years and its modern appearance have made it a popular choice within many countries. The TP Group have been supplying the range within the UK for the past 4 years through Timberplay, however going forward Vica SL will be the lead supplier of the product.

Vica SL now represents the sports elements for Create Partnerships which includes skate and multiuse games areas (MUGAs). Other companies within the group include Timberplay, the children’s play specialist, All Urban, the UK distributer of the Santa & Cole street furniture range and specialist early years play company, Playgarden.

Paul Collings, Managing Director of Create Partnerships said: “This recent partnership gives the group an excellent coverage of the highest quality products across a wide range of public outdoor sports, play and Leisure facilities.

“Having the companies as separate independent businesses allows them the flexibility to cater for the unique demands of each product sector. This suits our group ethos of selfdetermination where each brand can create their own unique identity and culture while remaining true to the group ideology of pursuing excellence across its range of products, and exceptional quality of customer service.”

Mathew Reeder, Managing Director of Vica SL Ltd said: “Vica SL becoming part

of Create Partnerships is a great step forward for all the companies involved. Our product ranges complement each other and are of the highest quality.

“The sector knowledge we now have within the group is unparalleled with Vica SL specialising in the provision of sports fencing from MUGAs through to sports specific facilities meeting national and international standards.”

Adventure playground nominated for Child Friendly award

Staff at Grass Hoppers Adventure Playground at Tong Garden Centre are jumping for joy after learning of their nomination in the Child Friendly Leeds (CFL) Awards.

The adventure playground, which opened last year as part of a series of improvements at Tong, was nominated in the ‘Best Place for Children and Young People in Leeds’ category of the awards that took place earlier in the year.

Tong’s Marketing Manager, Jo Dales is delighted with the news: “The team at Tong works really hard to deliver a family friendly play experience for all of our visitors so it’s really rewarding that their efforts have been acknowledged with this nomination.”

Due to the success of the playground since launch, there are plans to make Grass Hoppers Adventure Playground even bigger in 2016.

Child Friendly Leeds is a Leeds City Council initiative that is designed to bring people together to put children and young people at the heart of

the community and to make Leeds a child friendly city.

CLF Enquiry 89

Brilliant colours with Miroad safety surfacing

Miroad Rubber is your new one stop shop for sports and playground safety surfacing.

The company has 19 vibrant colours of EPDM granulate in UK stock now for immediate delivery, plus our own PU binder in 20kg and 220kg kegs.

The EPDM starts at just £1.05 per kg and our binder at £2.25 per kg. You can order online and select your delivery time including next day delivery for orders placed before 12.30.

Miroad can also supply rubber kerb edging and a

wide range of rubber tiles and pavers.

With its excellent reputation for quality, Miroad supplies some of the biggest names in leisure all over the world, including Disney and Legoland (pictured).

It also has IAAF certification for use in top level sports arenas. And now it is available in the UK. If you have any projects coming up this summer, give Miroad a try. The company says it can offer you substantial savings.

Miroad Enquiry

92

Playforce teams up with Sports for Schools

The UK’s leader in the design and creation of innovative, curriculum linked play environments for children, has teamed up with Sports for Schools, providers of inspiring events hosted by GB athletes at primary schools across the UK.

Sports for Schools runs GB & Olympic athlete-led physical activity events to inspire children to do more physical activity, raise money for PE equipment in schools (almost £2m to date), and support GB and Olympic athletes financially.

Sports for Schools visit over 1,300 Primary Schools each year across the UK, inspiring over 350,000 children and giving them direct access to

extraordinary GB Olympic & Paralympic athletes.

Playforce is a perfect partner for Sports for Schools; the year-round partnership will include an inter-school fitness challenge for staff, opportunities to win prizes including equipment, priority booking for Playforce customers when signing up to a Sports for Schools event, and cocreated content.

Emily Northin, Head of Inside Sales and Marketing at Playforce commented: “Playforce has always championed the need to embed fun, physical activity into the school day from an early age in order to instil healthy behaviours for life.

“So, when we met Sports for Schools we were delighted that they shared this same passion. We’re really excited about the ways in which we can work together over the next 12 months, support schools in inspiring children to be physically active and ultimately make a positive difference to the health of children across the UK.”

Michael Ledzion, Chief Sportivater of Sports for Schools, said: “We just love the way Playforce makes playgrounds that excite kids to get active, so we’re working together to put physical activity at the heart of the primary school curriculum.

“We think it’s as important to be physically active and

healthy as it is to be good at numeracy and literacy: We know that more physically active children achieve better academically in school. Working with Playforce will help us deliver that vital message, and achieve a lasting legacy for all our children.”

Hannah Hanley, Senior Account Manager at brandmeetsbrand, added:

“We’re delighted to have secured Playforce as an official sponsor of Sports for Schools, adding to their portfolio of existing partner brands which all have a lovely synergy with Sports for School’s audiences, and offer them real value.”

Enquiry 94

PlayGuard is top choice for playground timbers

M&M Timber has long been regarded as the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber products for playgrounds, educational and other outdoor leisure applications.

Its specially developed PlayGuard range opens up exciting new possibilities in innovative design projects that combine flexibility with durability and ease of maintenance.

Utilising only timber selected from high quality Radiata pine, which has inherent lowsplit properties and therefore minimises finger traps, the PlayGuard range is kiln dried, fully sanded and treated with Tanalith E for durability and long service life. PlayGuard is available in a choice of Standard or higher grade premium ranges.

M&M

Timber Enquiry 93

Making sure public fitness areas do not fail

Public fitness areas are designed for the 10% that already works out and not the 90% that we need to encourage, excite and motivate to live a healthier life, according to Playworld.

With the NEOS Fit 360, Playworld’s systems engages people of ages and abilities with its modern design, blinking lights and sounds.

NEOS Fit 360 moves the gym outdoors and makes it available for everyone. We can make obesity and health epidemics a thing of the past as if we think outside the box and makes public spaces relevant to today’s generation and excite the society of tomorrow…

Playforce

RTC Safety Surfaces unveil two new websites

Leading surfacing company have launched two new websites to convey their expertise and knowledge of

products that they bring to the play industry. RTC Safety Surfaces Ltd are one of the largest established wet pour

contractors who work tirelessly to protect children from serious head injuries when exploring play equipment. As

shown on their new website, they install safety surfacing in parks, schools and nurseries across the globe.

Their specialist division, Billy Bounce has also had a website make-over. Designed to inspire the education sector, the refreshed site not only stresses the importance of safety surfacing but also how designs can encourage outdoor learning.

Both websites now promise to bring an enhanced customer experience with extensive downloads to educate schools and nurseries, contractors, architects and local authorities of the importance of safety surfacing in playgrounds. They also share testimonials, case studies, and galleries to inspire all of the benefits and quality of their workmanship

Nicole Yeardley at RTC Safety Surfaces says: “Our websites

tend to be the start of our customer’s experience. They set the tone of the brands and are where people go for initial information. That’s why we’ve taken the step to revamp both of our websites. We want to communicate to our customer’s that we are trusted globally because of our product knowledge and impeccable service.”

RTC Safety Surfaces invite schools and nurseries to explore www.billybounce.co.uk whilst contractors and architects will find valuable, product specifications for download on www.rtcsafety.co.uk.

Safety Surfaces Enquiry 98

Proludic provide a treasure chest of great design

Proludic know the power of great themed design. Their skilled and creative designers like to craft a story for every play area they work on, no matter how big or small the

In February, Proludic completed a spectacular pirate-themed inclusive play area in Tower Gardens, Skegness, ready for the summer holiday season.

The existing play space was in need of refurbishment and East Lindsey District Council wanted to create a themed space that not only inspired but would rejuvenate the whole park.

The seaside provided the perfect backdrop for this play space – even the surfacing had nautical elements on it to further enhance and encourage role play!

“Proludic fully understood our requirements and delivered a unique ‘pirate themed’ play area,2 said a spokesperson for East Lindsey District Council.

“They consulted with us throughout the project and completed the work in a timely and professional manner. We are delighted with our new play area and Proludic have continued to provide support even though it is now open to the public.”

The play area has had such a positive effect on the local community that a nearby caravan park saw the Tower Gardens design in their local newspaper and were so impressed they decided that they wanted a similar design.

With a smaller budget Proludic also crafted a unique play space for the caravan park.

Proludic Enquiry 99

RTC

eibe set to soar at Birdworld

Birdworld has been one of the South East’s most popular leisure attractions since it first opened in 1968.

The thriving Hampshire enterprise includes the adjacent Forest Lodge Garden Centre and the nearby Garden Style Nursery just a short distance away, all set in the beautiful surroundings of Alice Holt Forest.

Plans to develop the park further are always at the forefront of the business and in the early part of 2016 the team has added a brand new £32,000 area, Parrot Island Adventure Play, to attract a

new breed of younger visitor, courtesy of eibe Play.

The Amazon Climbing Unit was the product of choice of Park Manger, Mark Anderson. The eibe design team designed and manufactured the additional parrots to fit in with the theme.

The overall look is cosmetically eye-catching with the added benefit of a piece of equipment that is crammed full of play value with climbing, swinging and balancing an integral part of the unit’s appeal.

eibe Play Enquiry 101

Notts Sport’s new practice area wins praise

Notts Sport, the world’s leading supplier of synthetic cricket surfacing systems, has resurfaced Leicestershire County Cricket Club’s indoor training facilities to provide a bespoke solution that’s been a winner with players and coaches alike.

The work has seen the threelane practice area in the Mike Turner Cricket Centre at Grace Road transformed, with the former synthetic carpet – which had been laid over concrete – removed and replaced with NottsTurf Indoor top surface installed over NottsPad Indoor

shockpad base for enhanced performance.

Notts Sport’s Design & Advisory Service sets its surfacing solutions even further apart from other artificial pitch providers, by creating tailor-made facilities in line with individual requirements. Notts Sport offers free condition checks for any existing artificial turf cricket facilities and its firstrate systems can be designed as pitch refurbishments or new installations.

Notts Sport Enquiry 103

Plane sailing at RAF Marham

Encouraging development through play has always been a focus for play equipment company Monster Play @ Caloo.

Monster Play recently completed a project for RAF Marham in Norfolk, a densely populated military housing area – home to many families. Working with the Client the main aim was to install large units that could accommodate lots of children and enhance their imaginations. It was a priority that at least one unit could accommodate Wheelchair users. The site needed fencing and the existing play area was to be converted into a separate Skate Park aimed at Teenagers.

Two fantastic adventure play units were installed, the ‘Oakley Estates Supermax’ for older children containing 11 activity areas and the ‘Clipper Pirate Ship’ for younger children with 14 activity areas. These two units

are Gold Award products for encouraging communication, sensory, physical and cognitive skills through play. Cradle and flat swings, seesaws, an accessible whirl and a new skate park were also installed to provide additional

opportunities for play. Safety surfacing was installed around each piece of equipment alongside furniture and fencing for the whole site.

Monster Play@Caloo Enquiry 102

New pitch donated free by SIS Pitches

Former Premier League chairman Sir Dave Richards joined Sheffield Wednesday footballers Fernando Forestieri and Modou Sougou and Sheffield Sharks basketball team captain Mike Tuck to officially open a local school’s new artificial grass pitch. In one of the most deprived areas of Sheffield, Valley Park Community School has more than 450 pupils and 20 languages spoken, with children forced take lessons in corridors.

But the kids show colour, fun and laughter always shine through, when they dreamed

up their own design for a vivid yellow and red striped 3G artificial grass pitch and playzone. Then the Football Foundation and UK sports surface giant SIS Pitches stepped in to make it a reality.

SIS are part of a joint Framework Agreement, which was developed by the Football Foundation, The FA, Rugby Football Union, England Hockey and Sport England to ensure that the procurement, manufacture and installation of new 3G AGPs always represents the best valuefor-money and quality.

SIS

Pitches Enquiry 105

Ecocept is a new generation of pitch recyclability

TigerTurf UK has unveiled TenCate Ecocept, a pioneering new system which makes use of recycled plastics and old artificial surfaces in the construction of brand new artificial grass pitches (AGPs).

Providing a comprehensive solution to the issue of what to do with ageing AGPs, the environmentally-friendly base layer from the manufacturer’s parent company TenCate also carries a host of benefits for ground stabilisation, drainage, sports performance and overall environmental impact.

Ecocept has been specially developed to prevent as many used materials as possible from going to landfill, with up to 90% of the product made from otherwise landfilled products such as end of life plastics and rubber crumb.

Not only does this offer the option of closed-loop recyclability, but it has the potential to save as much as 140 tonnes of materials

from going to landfill - the equivalent of £30,000 in costs - compared to traditional installations.

Additionally, the carbon footprint of each new pitch is further reduced by the layer’s high load-bearing capacity – meaning fewer truckloads of soil are removed at the installation stage – whilst Ecocept™’s impressive drainage properties help to avoid costly trenched drainage below the field, making the solution as cost effective as it is useful.

Given that the new base layer is compatible with many of TigerTurf’s synthetic turf products, the manufacturer can now offer a complete and ecofriendly solution for investors looking to reduce their impact on the environment without compromising on performance.

TigerTurf UK Enquiry 106

Pupils inspired by all-year outdoor PE

Outdoor PE all year round is now a reality at a primary school in Greater Manchester since the installation of an allweather sports pitch.

Oakfield Primary School in Hyde wanted to improve their outdoor play provision in particular giving greater opportunity for their children to be able to play a range of sports in a designated area away from the main playground.

They appointed Farnboroughbased Fawns Recreational Services Ltd to install a 20m x 12m Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) with polymeric surface.

The new court has allowed the school to run PE lessons

outdoor all year round and has reduced pressure on the playground during break and lunch times with the ball court being used for free play as well as curriculum activities. Fawns, which supplies inspirational play for parks, schools & nurseries, turned to sports fencing expert Zaun for the MUGA fencing.

The MUGA incorporates Zaun’s Duo6 and Duo8 twin wire fencing range, with recessed goals hiding exits from the ends and basketball posts, backboards and hoops at either end above the goals.

Clamp bar covering panel ends ensures a safe playing surface with no sharp edges.

Bespoke play from Wicksteed

Wicksteed is the forerunner of bespoke play design and equipment in the UK and has the facilities to be able to create unique, one- of-a-kind play areas that can be tailor made to suit any environment and space.

Wicksteed has over 95 years dedicated play experience in knowing exactly what children want and what they find exciting and engaging at all ages.

Its award winning play scheme designs can incorporate bespoke elements to totally transform areas and follow themes such as woodland, seaside, dinosaur or fantasy

to reflect an individual site’s history or location.

Stuart Wetherell from Wicksteed commented: “Our team of experienced designers know what is creatively possible within a designated play space and can bring the most ambitious and complex design concepts to life, from giant stone aircraft climbers to an impressive dragon’s head slide.

“We work closely with our clients to ensure that our designs are not only eyecatching but also that the play experience is the best it can be for all ages and abilities.”

Proludic Ltd is now represented directly in Scotland

PROLUDIC LIMITED has extended its direct representation throughout the UK by bringing its services to the Scottish play market back in house.

Rob Baker, Managing Director at Proludic UK explained that Jupiter Play & Leisure Ltd has been the Proludic brand agents in Scotland for the last 15 years but as both companies have seen some evolvement in management and strategy in the last 12 months, it now seems a natural time for Proludic to make this step for independent representation.

“We are committed to giving our customers 100% focus on

the suite of products available within the Proludic portfolio,” he added. “In addition, the range of other services we make available to our clients, such as funding, design & aftersales advice will also be offered within Scotland.”

Proludic Ltd will be represented in Scotland by Roy Auld. Roy, has 18 yearsexperience in the Scottish play industry, having previously worked for both Russell Play and Jupiter Play so we hope clients from Proludic will have a seamless transition.

Proludic Enquiry 111

New kids on the Bloqx

A recent management restructuring at KOMPAN Ltd has seen the appointment of a new and dynamic Senior Management Team focused on growth and delivering exceptional customer service.

Milton Keynes-based, KOMPAN Ltd, one of the UK’s leading outdoor playground and fitness equipment and indoor play and furnishing solutions’ providers, has appointed a new Senior Management Team.

The Team, headed up by new Managing Director, Steve Sylvester, is responsible for raising the company’s profile in key markets (Local Authorities, Town & Parish Councils, Schools & Nurseries, House Builders & Property Developers, Leisure and Tourist Attractions in

England and Wales), and increasing KOMPAN’s market share within them via organic growth and through securing ‘new’ business.

A key component of KOMPAN’s new business strategy is an emphasis on providing best-in- class customer service.

His Team comprises four newly appointed senior managers: Mark Crawford (Commercial Leader); Nick Morris (Head of Installation); Deborah Chambers (Regional Sales Manager – North), and Steven Williams (Regional Sales Manager – South), along with, Chris Dixon (Education Sales Manager), who has been with KOMPAN since 2004.

Play areas transformed by Wicksteed include:

• A magical fairyland theme was created for Walton Hall Gardens in Warrington with brightly coloured flower safety surfacing

• A huge colourful dragon’s head slide has breathed life into a play area in Cambridge which led ingeniously onto a timber play structure as part of its body

• An impressive bespoke timber galleon was launched in Oban Community Park for Argyll and Bute Council

• Haigh Woodland Park is

proud to provide children with a woodland themed play area which features two towering Tree Houses complete with slides

• To mark the history behind an old wartime airfield, an iconic Spitfire rockscape landed at Hornchurch Country Park.

Wicksteed provides a free quotation and design service to ensure your play area becomes the talking point of the community and gives all children a memorable play experience.

Wicksteed Enquiry 110

Key Benefits of NEOS®Fit 360.

• Work your cardio vascular, reflexes, hand eye co-ordination, memory and problem solving skills.

• Lights and sounds adds entertainment for both contestants and spectators of all ages while scoring allows you to monitor progress.

• The fully accessible arena enables individuals or teams to compete in one of eight exciting exercises

NEOS 360 embraces technology to create an arena for fun and exercise where people will meet, compete and have a laugh while getting healthier

“Exercise just got more fun...”

New ride-on brushcutters from Grillo

Grillo Agrigarden Ltd have released details on their new exciting range of 4wd ride-on brush cutters, and after extensive research and testing these machines are now in full production.

The range consists of two models the 10/22 & 10/27 both using the same robust powder coated tubular chassis.

Each model features a heavy duty hydrostatic transmission with integrated diff-lock for increased traction on slopes and is controlled by an ergonomic lever.

A heavy duty single blade with swing tips is enclosed in an exceptionally robust steel cutter housing with rear & side discharge facility with the height of cut regulated via a gas strut assisted lever.

Front drive units have the added protection of steel shrouds to prevent against accidental damage to them. A folding roll bar, front and rear tow hitch and front light come as standard fitment.

The Climber 10/22 has a deluxe padded seat with arm rests

whilst the 10/27 comes with a high quality Grammar seat and spring damper assistance for exceptional comfort.

During the machines design, operator requirements were given careful consideration so that a very low seating position and exceptional leg room were conceived both for comfort and safety.

Cutting widths are 93cm for the 10/22 and 98cm for the 10/27 with an estimated hourly output of 1.85 acres per hour.

Engines are from Briggs & Stratton in 656cc and 724 cc configuration respectively.

Large aggressive tractor type tyres are employed with the front being puncture proofed.

Grillo,s long experience in the manufacture of this type of machine has now culminated in these two outstanding models.

Suggested retail for the 10/22 is £8290 and £9290 for the 10/27 plus vat.

Grillo Agrigarden Enquiry 115

Battery powered tools from Bosch

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

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

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

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

A serious issue for regular users of powered garden equipment is known as White Finger or HAVS

(Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome) and is virtually eliminated by the low vibration electric tools.

The entire range benefits from low noise emissions with new models quieter than some domestic vacuum cleaners. Not only do they provide peace and quiet when used in public spaces, but also offer higher user comfort; extending the hours in which gardeners can work. The batteries are weatherresistant and compatible with all products in the range – mowers, hedgecutters, leaf blowers and brushcutters. They feature a fast 42-minute recharge time for the 6.0Ah batteries, and a 64-minute recharge time for the 9.0Ah.

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

Bosch Professional Enquiry 114

Take the brush with the smooth

Brush, brambles, 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. There is a reversible 26”/66cm tempered steel blade that will

rip down sapling growth up to 2”/5cm thick, powered by the Honda GXV 390cc engine with a Noram mechanical blade clutch for instant forward and reverse drive propulsion.

In addition to the hydrostatic transaxle the advanced features include solid rods to connect the operator to the transmission, park brake and cutter blade clutch, with no cables to break or adjust.

Schiller Grounds Care Enquiry 116

CAMON’s 4-stroke brushcutters prove a hit

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

CAMON brushcutters from Tracmaster are designed to satisfy the needs and working demands of all users. Features include antivibration and adjustable handlebars for perfect weight distribution,

market leading engines, safety goggles, bump feed head and grass blade as standard.

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

Three different models of 4 stroke brushcutter are available, including the Combi HO25 with brushcutter, hedgetrimmer, chain pruner and a 75cm Extension for longer reach.

Enquiry 119

Etesia’s new pedestrian brushcutter unveiled

Etesia has launched a new pedestrian brushcutter - the Attila 51 for taming rough grass areas.

With built-in rugged reliability as standard, the new Etesia AD51 brushcutter has been designed to work in the toughest of conditions. This powerful workhorse effectively deals with clearing vegetation from a wide variety of sites - long grass, weeds, bracken and brambles on woodland paths or orchards.

Ease of operation and manoeuvrability ensure total efficiency and high output.

Fitted with a powerful Briggs & Stratton 750 Series 4 stroke DOV 6HP engine and an integrated differential lock with over-sized rear wheels gives a good grip on uneven ground, especially on slopes of up to 38%. Cutting height adjustment is from 50100mm.

Off-centred blade for cutting without clogging and a blade disengagement facility gives users a theoretical output of 2800 m²/h.

Highly manoeuvrable thanks to the hydraulic transmission,

Machine for difficult terrain

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

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

STIHL has even set a tool bag into the backpack’s support

frame so accessories like extra cutting tools are ready to hand.

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

STIHL Enquiry 121

three forward speeds and one reverse speed and the differential lock with latch ensures no continuous holding for greater safety and convenience. Full folding handles allows for easy

transportation from site to site and storage.

Etesia Enquiry 120

Makita’s back-pack brushcutter

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

Powered by a 43cc 2hp version of Makita’s advanced MM4 4-stroke engine, this back-pack brush cutter weighs just 12kg. With the fully padded harness it is comfortable to operate and vibrations are minimal.

With the engine effectively separated from the carry frame

by four isolating springs, which damp out any vibrations, the vibration effect on the operator is greatly reduced. Operator controls are at the handgrip position controlling throttle opening and cutting drive.

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

Makita Enquiry

Road Sign

Have you ever seen a men at work sign with the wording hedge cutting on the road side, then gone around the corner only to find it’s a large tractor cutting the hedge, taking up hafe of the road. Legislation says that there must be road signage, but why not one that fits the job.

Working with Quazar International, who have been manufacturing and pioneering reflective products for over 40 years, we have developed a road sign that lets drivers know what to expect around that corner.

This conforming road sign, rolls up for ease of transportation and storage, is very easy to erect, and is made from a standard grade reflectivity. The size is 750mm and has 4 additional sub plates. All sub plates are interchangeable, with press stud fastening.

122

CAMON

New amenity mounted sprayer range

A new breed of mounted sprayers is set to offer cost savings and increased productivity to the amenity and turf sector this season.

Kieran Would, Managing Director of Agrigem explains: “The new range of FGA mounted sprayers manufactured by FarmGEM Ltd have been specifically designed with the UK amenity and turf market in mind.

“They are built very robustly using high quality steel and components that are all specified to meet the latest legislation.

“The strong yet light and compact design enables connection to most tractors and operation is straight forward with all control functions located together and within easy reach. The operator has easy control of main on/off, individual spray section on/off, pressure

adjustment, tank rinsing nozzle and turbo agitation jet.

“The powerful 75 litre/min diaphragm pump provides more than adequate flow for application and can easily handle liquid fertilisers too. The liquid flow system is protected by both a large in-line suction filter and tank neck basket filter, cutting down on blocked pipes and nozzles.

“In order to comply with the latest safety and NSTS requirements, each machine is equipped with two separate clean water tanks for rinsing the machine, including the internal surfaces of the tank via a spinning distribution nozzle and also an emergency clean water tank for hand washing.

“The boom height can be manually adjusted to suit differing conditions and spraying with only one wing boom open is possible for smaller areas, also as an option a retractable hose reel and spraying lance can be specified allowing applications away from the machine around buildings and pathways for example.

The key specification includes: 200 or 400 litre polyethylene rotamoulded tank with remote drain; 20 or 40 litre clean water rinse tank with rota-flush tank rinse nozzle; 8 metre steel constructed manual “Package Folding” boom; adjustable boom height; 75 litre/ min 3-cylinder diaphragm pump; manual main on/off and 3 spray section control c/w pressure adjustment; single quick fit nozzle bodies c/w flat fan nozzles; fill hose holder.

Options includes a hose reel and spray lance, as well as triplet nozzle bodies.

Enquiry 127

Simplicity is the key to Noblat’s success

With 30 years’ experience of manufacturing high quality topdressers Noblat has an impressive track record in making the groundsman and greenkeeper’s day-to-day job easier.

The range comprise dedicated drop and spin dressers from 400 to 4,000 litres (flush), with the two larger models SAB 3000 and 4000 boasting the ability to swap via a “cassette” system from

drop to spin dresser in a matter of minutes. It is also possible to fit a conveyor making the range a versatile cost effective proposition.

The whole range is designed and manufactured in the Limogesbased factory in France and is available through UK importer AllezGrow Ltd.

LTD Enquiry 125

It’s your turn with the

IKON-X

The IKON-X Zero-turn mower is built by Ariens Company, a family owned brand that has a reputation for engineering excellence.

The IKON-X doesn’t have the conventional steering system found on a lawn tractor, it’s driven and steered by the rear wheels via an independent transmission.

It is surprisingly easy to drive, with levers for brake and steer and the ability to spin on the spot. At the end of the mowing row you can turn it 180º in its own footprint and begin the next pass.

The IKON-X is comfortable too, with an adjustable high-back seat which includes arm rests and there’s a vibration reducing floor mat.

Enquiry 126

East Grinstead praise new Dennis mower

Geoff Gilbert, East Grinstead Town FC’s groundsman, has praised his new Dennis G34D cylinder mower, which has been purchased from local dealer Lister Wilder.

When his old machine developed a major fault, he purchased a new Dennis G34D.

Designed to appeal to sports turf managers and professional gardeners alike, the new Dedicated G-Series range of mowers has been designed and built following the same concept as the popular Dennis G860 machine.

Available in three different cutting sizes – 26”, 30” and 34”

- the mowers incorporate a largediameter eight-bladed cutting cylinder to cater for a wide range of uses to leave a precision cut. The handlebar design makes manoeuvring the machine easy

and comfortable to operate. East Grinstead chose the 34” cutting width model.

Agrigem

Ariens

AllezGrow

Dennis Enquiry 128

Hackney marches to safer green spaces

Hackney Borough Council’s Parks and Green Spaces team now has the best possible safe working conditions equipped with Makita battery powered line trimmers, blowers and hedgecutters, having dropped traditional petrol machines on health, safety and environmental grounds.

The Council’s policy is to remove all petrol power from local operations by 2020. Switching to Makita’s 36v cordless tools eliminates the vibration risks that can harm staff with longterm Hand Arm Vibration-HAV

injuries such as White Finger and joint and circulation problems.

The Makita machines offer a considerable reduction in vibration and can be used all day without harm to the operators.

Additionally, using battery powered grounds care machines means that exhaust emissions are zero –petrol engine exhaust fumes are eliminated and the risk of ground contamination from spilt petrol and oil is removed altogether.

Hackney Borough Council is now equipped with a fleet of

36volt Makita machines powered by lightweight Lithium-Ion batteries in conjunction with the fastest charging system in the industry. The DUB362 leaf blower delivers more air volume than a 4-stroke petrol blower and weighs just 4.1kg.

The DUR364 line trimmer has the motor in the hub of the cutting head for perfect balance in operation whilst the DUH551 hedge trimmer has double sided cutting action and will easily cut 18mm diameter boughs.

Makita

VW launches crafty new conversion

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has further strengthened its ‘Engineered to Go’ range with the launch of a new tipper truck at this year’s CV Show at the NEC.

Based on the adaptable Crafter chassis cab platform, the new tipper body has been developed in partnership with conversions specialist VFS. It boasts a high payload capacity and is available in both single and double cab variants.

Developed to the latest European design regulations, the new tipper features a high-strength steel platform optimised for torsional rigidity. While the tipper mechanism is designed to provide maintenance-free lifting

throughout the vehicle’s life, the new conversion’s bolted construction method offers fast and simple access to the rest of the vehicle.

Volkswagen Commercial Enquiry

132

Enquiry 131

With a large number of features fitted as standard, the new Crafter tipper benefits from a direct acting five stage underfloor ram to offer a safe, versatile and easy-to-use vehicle. Offering a flexible load-carrying area, the new tipper is available with the option of a robust cage assembly that can be specified with or without sliding sides.

New Bushranger has the edge

3.1hp Kawasaki FJ100 4 stroke OHV engine delivering plenty of power and long, reliable service.

EGO doubles trimmer range

EGO Power+ has introduced two new line trimmers to its range, bringing the total variety within its trimmer product line to four.

Previously the range had consisted of a 30cm option and a 38cm brushless model but now two new string trimmers with brushless motors have been introduced to complement the existing two.

These are a 33cm option with a 2mm dual line and two speed functionality and a 38cm option, with a 2.4mm dual line and variable speeds, with a bike handle for extra manoeuvrability and operator comfort.

All four trimmers boast a freerotating bump feed cap means that the cutting head can be rested on the ground during use without being worn away; a lightweight aluminium shaft; and a quick adjustable handle for maximum comfort, balance and control.

The trimmers are powered by EGO’s 56 volt lithium-ion battery that is available as a 2Ah, 4Ah, 5Ah or 7.5Ah. All batteries are interchangeable across the entire EGO range and featured the brand’s patented arc design and “keep cool” cell technology.

This is an extremely robustly built edger with an advanced

The machine features a number of innovations with new

controls developed to reduce operator hand fatigue, notably a ‘dead man’s handle’ with a micro switch cut-out for greater safety and which negates the need for the operator to hold down a lever.

The Exposure Limit Value (ELV) of the Bushranger is 567 minutes per day, with low vibration and low noise, aided by a muffler and cover, allowing use for over eight hours.

Controlled manually from the operator station, a simple lever is used to engage the cutting blade, with a similar arrangement for the cutting depth and kerb wheel; the third wheel dropping down to run in the gutter. The cutting depth has seven settings up to 72mm/2.85” and the cutter head tilts to the left and right to provide several different angles for border edging.

DJ Turfcare has introduced the new Bushranger Edger E35, specifically designed for local authority and contracting work.

DJ Turfcare Enquiry 134

EGO Power+ Enquiry 133

Cub

Cadet’s

TANK is a robust commercial zero-turn mower

The Cub Cadet TANK SZ60 is an unwavering commercial workhorse, designed for the everyday demands of professionals.

Hills once considered impossible to mow on a zero-turn are no match for this zero-turn.

It is a commercial zero-turn tractor with steering wheel control over all four wheels through the unique, patented Synchro steer system.

The synchro steer technology is a system of dual hydrostatic transmissions synchronised with steering wheel control of all four wheels to create true zero-turn manoeuvrability, ease of use and ultimate stability.

With its unrivalled stability, particularly over challenging terrain, and delivering a quality cut at angles other riders can’t handle, the TANK SZ60 really stands out from the crowd.

The triple-bladed deck has a large cutting width of 60” delivering a quality cut even on 20 degree inclines where other ride-on mowers may struggle. A superior mulcher, the advanced mulching technology recirculates the airflow around the cutting deck to provide effective and efficient

mulching. It’s easy to see what makes the TANK SZ60 the clear choice in commercial zero-turns.

An electronically-applied dual layer of e-coat and polymer powder coat provides superior protection against unforgiving environmental conditions and ensures that even the most complex parts are evenly coated.

A high-back elasticity vibration control (EVC) comfort seat with arm rests is a comfortable place to spend hours of productive mowing. The soft grip steering wheel can be positioned to suit the operator using the quick adjusting steering column and the power steering manoeuvres it through even the sharpest corners.

The Cub Cadet TANK SZ60 is powered by a commercial grade 27hp Kawasaki FX Series V-Twin OHV engine, which delivers high horsepower and maximum torque for an enhanced performance and speeds up to 11mph.

A heavy-duty remote air canister filtration system and a premium cooling system also provide to the durability and long-life of this machine.

School report praises John Deere

John Deere compact utility tractors and ride-on cylinder mowers supplied by dealer Ben Burgess GroundsCare Equipment are playing a central role in Langley School achieving its objective of improving the quality of its sports surfaces.

The fleet includes three compact utility tractors: a 66hp 4066R fitted with a front loader and a 45hp 3045R, both equipped with cabs to provide driver protection on the school’s exposed and windy site, plus a 26hp 1026R. Also included were a 2653B ride-on triplex cylinder mower and two ground-driven SISIS

implements, a Quadraplay pitch care system and a Megaslit slitter.

Garden maintenance is more the 1026R’s role, while the 4066R and 3045R are more sportsspecific machines, although they are involved in every aspect of the school’s overall grounds maintenance.

There are also plans to upgrade the astroturf pitch to a 3G surface with its associated maintenance equipment, so the tractors’ workload will increase.

John Deere Enquiry 137

Verti-Top helps ProGround with new business

ProGround provides external grounds maintenance solutions to a variety of clients like schools, parks and sports clubs.

Managing director Adam Green turned to Charterhouse Turf Machinery for the specialist machinery the company has needed to complete these contracts.

“We turned to Charterhouse because we knew the kit would be more than capable of doing what we needed it to do, but also because of the support they offered,” he explained.

The Verti-Top 1200 was purchased in 2015 and has become the fundamental piece of machinery in their ‘revitalisation’ procedure for artificial maintenance. The VertiTop employs a rotary brush to remove debris and top-layer infill from the turf, then sifts the debris out in a unique vibratory shaker which redistributes the clean infill back on the field. Finishing the work is a rear lag brush, leaving a clean and smooth playing surface.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 139

SISIS proves effective at iPro

Nathan Scarff, Derby County FC’s new head groundsman, believes that his newly purchased range of SISIS turf maintenance equipment has made life a little easier at the iPro Stadium.

Nathan and his team of three groundstaff tend to the pitch at the iPro, which is of a fibre sand construction complete with under soil heating and is fully irrigated.

After recently taking on the head groundsman position Nathan revealed that he wanted to make a difference – and it is for this reason that he turned to SISIS.

First to be purchased was the SISIS Variseeder, a versatile easy to use tractor mounted seeder with a variable seeding rate ideal for football field maintenance, golf course maintenance and for use on lawns and amenity areas. It has a fast work rate, is low maintenance with few wearing

parts and enables overseeding to be undertaken without taking ground out of play.

Further enhancing his turf maintenance procedures, Nathan uses the SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid 1500, which is a tractor mounted vertical action air injection aerator. Its air injection tines are specially designed to use the maximum air available from the compressor.

For general all-round maintenance Nathan also purchased the SISIS Twinplay frame which accepts a variety of different implements for use on both turf and synthetic surfaces. Implements such as grooming rakes, spikers, slitters, rollers and brushes can be added to the frame making this an exceptionally versatile piece of equipment. Nathan is particularly impressed.

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Classen has established itself as a true force in grounds care as well as the brand of choice for commercial and rental markets. Our tough, easy to use and maintain product line includes sod cutters, aerators, turf rakes and overseeders.

Cub Cadet Enquiry 138

Dynamo Kiev celebrates 20year link with Ransomes

Anatoli Kolosha, the Technical Director at Ukraine’s premier football club Dynamo Kiev, visited Ransomes Jacobsen European headquarters in Ipswich recently to celebrate a 20-year association between the two businesses.

Dynamo Kiev operate a significant fleet of equipment including Ransomes Mastiff walk behind

mowers, Cushman Turf Truckster utility vehicles, Iseki tractors, a Ransomes Fairway 305 ride on mower and other turf maintenance equipment. Anatoli is responsible for the club’s infrastructure, which includes the buildings, the stadium pitch, the Training Centre and the Youth Academy.

Scarify now for a green summer

Scarifying now is the best possible chemical-free tonic you can give your lawn to ensure a healthy and luxurious sward for the summer.

aeration and other lawn care aids a part of its Complete Lawn Care System. This turns the lawnmower into a powered gardening aid.

Ransomes

Jacobsen Enquiry 142

The advice from Allett Lawnmowers is that aeration will remove dead grass, roots and rubbish from the lawn and also open up the compacted surface allowing sunshine, rain and oxygen to reach the roots enabling the lawn to maximise its natural spring and early summer growth potential.

Allett is the UK’s leading specialist manufacturer of cylinder lawnmowers and, through its UK dealer network, offers lawn owners a choice of

This is a collection of six cartridges that interchange with the cutting cylinder on the Allett Classic and Kensington petrol cylinder lawnmowers.

The Scarifier cartridge costs from £110.00 from Allett dealers. Other cylinders in the range include a lawn brush, verticut, aerator, dethatcher and a tenblade cylinder to give you lawn that golf green finish.

Allett Mowers Enquiry 143

An all-round professional mower

Lely signs up new service centre

UK Toro distributor Lely Turfcare has signed up a new Gloucestershire service centre following significant sales growth in South West England.

Revill Mowers Limited, based in Coleford, has become the latest to join the turfcare specialist’s group of 20 independent, authorised service locations (ASLs), after Lely approached the company

needing additional service support in the area.

Since the new partnership, Revill Mowers has invested heavily in specialist Toro diagnostic equipment and staff training; something that Jason says is set to continue. Lely’s new Service Level Agreement (SLA) was introduced last year.

Lely Turfcare Enquiry 144

With more than 25 years’ experience in the grounds maintenance industry, Stefan Westerkamp from Westerkamp Garden Design, is well placed to know a quality machine when he sees one.

Westerkamp Garden Design’s client list includes local authorities, sports clubs and industrial areas in the district of Cloppenburg in Germany.

Previously a self-propelled cylinder mower was used for this work, but it was cumbersome to operate and costly to maintain.

In 2014 business was growing so following a demonstration by Major, Stefan purchased a 4.1m and 2.4m Roller Mower combination. The Major 4.1m Mower is used for large-scale mowing in parks and sports grounds, with the 2.4m Front Mounted Mower ideally suited for smaller areas.

On average per week, 150 acres is mowed effortlessly by Stefan and his team with a perfect striped finish guaranteed.

“Whenever I offer sample mowing to new clients, they are

really impressed with the cut the Major produces,” he said.

“I have been able to win 30% more business since I started working with these mowers. They are quiet in operation, user

friendly and easy for my team to use.”

Major Equipment Enquiry 145

www.irus-mowers.co.uk

Quatrak and Deltrak models Powerful, reliable & safe

Irus remote controlled mowers for cutting safely at up to 50 degree angles.

Terex Construction launches two new site dumpers

easier and more efficient. Optional Autoshift technology is designed to change gears at optimised points, helping to promote improved fuel efficiencies, productivity and simpler operation. Both models

are Tier 4 Final compliant, meeting the highest international emissions regulations.

Terex Construction Enquiry 148

The most extreme D-Max ever sold

Isuzu is launching the most extreme D-Max to bolster its already comprehensive model line-up.

The new Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is engineered to excel in the most arduous terrain, whether in the wilds of the British countryside or on building sites in the city.

Available in either double-cab or extended-cab configurations, the AT35 is the most extraordinarily capable pick-up that Isuzu UK has ever put on sale.

levels of standard equipment, a comprehensive accessories list allows customers to spec their AT35 according to their unique requirements.

Arctic Trucks is a vehicle engineering specialist, developing and building 4x4 vehicles able to conquer the most challenging conditions for over 25 years. The Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 will be the first Arctic Trucks pick-up in the

UK that can be ordered directly from a vehicle manufacturer’s dealer network.

The AT35 retains the impressive one-tonne payload and 3.5-tonne towing (braked) capacities that have helped keep the Isuzu D-Max one of the most popular pick-ups for those seeking an exceptional workhorse with low running costs.

ISUZU Enquiry

configuration, this makes the site dumper flexible enough to work in the most restrictive conditions.

Standing out from the crowd in terms of both its unprecedented off-road capabilities as well its aesthetics, the AT35 builds on the strong and durable platform of the multi-award winning D-Max. In addition to the high

Dealer continues Cardiff Blues partnership

Guinness PRO12 side, Cardiff Blues, has welcomed the arrival of a new Kubota compact tractor, continuing the region’s long association with the groundcare equipment manufacturer.

The region have taken delivery of the Kubota STW40 tractor through Newport-based machinery dealer, Ted Hopkins

Machinery, with whom Cardiff Blues have enjoyed an association for over 50 years.

Cardiff Blues moved from a natural to wholly synthetic surface, after years of having to work with poor weather conditions.

GreenMech in the pink

Swiss landscapers Bächler + Güttinger has commissioned chipper manufacturer GreenMech to supply an Arborist 150 in the company’s pink colours to match tractors and diggers.

Bächler + Güttinger can be traced back 100 years and has always

had ‘pink’ as their company colour buying machinery for their fleet in this colour where ever possible. The 6” chipper was tailor-made and supplied via GreenMech’s Swiss distributors ‘Iseli’.

GreenMech Enquiry 152

Kubota Enquiry 150

Etesia ensures quality for company

Creative Gardening Solutions, based in the West Midlands, is the proud new owner of two new Etesia ride-on mowers and directors Andrew Rossiter and Matthew Tromans couldn’t be happier.

The Etesia Hydro 124 DN is the first mower that combines direct rear-ejection, integrated collection and high-lift emptying. Designed to mow up to 19,000 square metres per hour with a grass box capacity of 600 litres, the Hydro 124 DN is one of the most highly

efficient machines on the market.

The Hydro 124 DN’s best feature according to Andrew “is that you don’t have to get off it and that is all any company can want from their operators. That is how you hit your top speeds and how you hit your cutting times. Our other machines were just too slow – we had to keep getting off to unblock and change blades but everything is just so smooth with the Hydro 124. In my mind – this is money very well spent,” he said.

Etesia Enquiry 154

Little Wonder helps the Black Cats

Sunderland AFC’s Head Groundsman, Glenn Campbell and his team, in addition to maintaining the turf, have the task of ensuring the grounds are kept immaculate.

Faced with the problem of falling leaves from trees around the car park in autumn and litter blown across the area throughout the year, they ordered two Little Wonder ProVac self-propelled vacuum sweepers on the recommendation of their Northumberland dealers Greenlay.

The self-propelled ProVac will work at speeds up to 4.2 mph forwards and 1.8 mph in reverse. Power comes from a 9hp Honda GX270 engine driving industryleading suction to clear all kinds of debris into the 74.47 gallon/217L capacity bag. Nozzle height is automatically adjustable and there is an easy toe tap dump valve to switch to forwards and backwards.

Schiller Grounds Care Enquiry 155

Like for like for Kent club

Knowing neatness, effi ciency and speed are non-negotiable, a leading Kent course manager has bought the same Wiedenmann Terra Spike aerator again.

Mark Bell, who heads the team at Birchwood Park Golf Centre, Wilmington, has chosen a Wiedenmann Terra Spike XF6 supplied by local dealer, Ernest Doe & Sons, of Dartford.

“I inherited the original aerator when I came here four years ago but why change when we were entirely happy?” he asked.

“The XF gives me choice across the entire course. Particularly in winter it has to be fast across our fairways or the job won’t get done and we know what the XF can do; it’s an absolute pleasure.”

Wiedenmann Enquiry 156

Spurs’ fleet of UTVs refreshed at training centre

Tottenham Hotspur Football Club have taken delivery of a new fleet of Cushman utility and specialist transport vehicles from local dealer Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd, for use at their state-of-theart Training Centre in Enfield, North London.

The new fleet comprises six Cushman Hauler Pro 72-volt electric utility vehicles, two Cushman four-seater Shuttles with bespoke cargo beds, two speciallydesigned stretcher/ambulance vehicles and an E-Z-GO Express Shuttle 6, finished in Spurs Blue for transporting VIP guests around the 77-acre site.

Tottenham said: “We designed the Training Centre with environmental protection and sustainability in mind and that’s why we use electric powered utility vehicles, wherever possible.

“Also, some of the vehicles are fitted with the latest TKV geo-fencing technology, which prevents the vehicles from entering various ‘no-go’ areas across the site. They all have onboard chargers and Hydrolink semi-automated battery filling systems to ensure the longlife of the batteries.”

Glutton demonstrates appetite for growth

ePowerTrucks is the new UK distributor for an innovative street cleaning machine.

The Glutton is a quiet, clean and environmentally-friendly alternative to ride-on street cleaners and powered barrows. It vacuums up any waste that can pass through a 12.5cm diameter tube; including paper, cardboard, cigarettes packets and butts, cans and glass, plastic and metal bottles, dog faeces, dead leaves, and waste trapped in tree grills.

One hundred per cent battery powered, it provides 12 hours of operation between charges. Virtually silent and with powerful dust capturing technology, it can be used during busy periods

without creating any noise or air pollution for residents, businesses and shoppers.

Ergonomically designed, the operator simply uses one hand to steer the self-propelled machine, while the other controls the vacuum that is attached to a wander hose. The Glutton weighs substantially less than a conventional powered barrow used for street waste collection - and at just 0.75m wide it is far more compact, making it easier to handle.

It is equally effective outdoors on pavements, public roads and in car parks as it is indoors in malls, warehouses and convention centres.

ePowerTrucks Enquiry 158

Ruggedness andreliability asstandard

It’s so fast and is certainly the best mower for what it does, on the market – no question.

Darren Baldwin, Head of Playing Surfaces and Estates at

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 157

Pitch Renovation Tour gets off to a flying start

The UK & Ireland Grassroots Pitch Renovation Tour - a series of full pitch renovations aimed at improving the quality of grassroots natural turf sports pitches across the UK and Ireland is underway. Venues in Cambridge, Maidstone, Fawley,

Wokingham, Birmingham and Knutsford have already held their days with an excellent turnout across the board.

Around 300 groundsmen from across the spectrum of local council, schools, contractors,

football and rugby clubs attended and were enthusiastic about all aspects of the day.

The seminars were informative and the demonstrations took place after lunch, with time allowed for networking and

further discussion with the sponsors at their own static display plots around the demo areas.

Registration is simple - just go on-line www. pitchimprovementprogramme. com and fill out the form adding an RSVP address so follow up photographs of the event you attend can be sent to you afterwards. A video showing some of the action can also be seen on the website.

As well as Campey Turf Care Systems’ equipment, delegates will see firsthand offerings other sponsors Limagrain, ICL, New Holland, Dennis SISIS and ALS.

Campey Turfcare Enquiry 161

Second employee notches up 25 years

Hot on the heels of Nick Darking clocking up 25 years at Charterhouse Turf Machinery comes Technical Manager Tim Franklyn.

Tim first joined Charterhouse as Workshop Manager in March 1991 where his duties included painting the fabricated parts and constructing the finished units. Now as Technical Manager he is often described as the ‘quiet man’ of Charterhouse where his vast product knowledge and

professional, meticulous, working attitude means Tim has become the ‘go-to’ man.

He plays a key part in customer and dealer support, delivering knowledge and training to the expansive dealer network. Pictured left to right are Nick Darking, Tim Franklyn and Director of Charterhouse, Geoff Burgess.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 162

Bobcat zero turn mowers offer customer choice

Bobcat zero turn mowers renowned for their superior “build quality” on which they have built their reputation are so confident about the reliability of their equipment they are offering their customers extended warranties.

“Customer Choice” warranty means, depending on the

product the end customer chooses, they can select the warranty period that most suits their needs. From a 500Hour/5 Year warranty to a 2750 Hour /6 year warranty* a plan is offered.

Resort strikes deal with John Deere

The idyllic Lough Erne Golf Resort is situated just a few miles outside the town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh and is home to a five star hotel and two golf courses, namely the Faldo Championship and Castle Hume courses.

The greenkeeping team elected to buy a John Deere 5100M 100hp utility tractor, two 8800A TerrainCut five-gang rotary rough mowers, a 2030A ProGator utility vehicle equipped with a lowprofile HD200 turf sprayer, a 1200A self-propelled bunker rake and a 2653B PrecisionCut triplex tees & surrounds mower.

Bobcat Enquiry 163

One of Northern Ireland’s most luxurious golf resorts has taken delivery of an extensive range of new John Deere turf machines from dealer Johnston Gilpin & Co to help maintain its courses.

John Deere Enquiry 165

Better Safe Than Sorry

Simon Richard Ltd Tel:

MAY 2016

Landscape Amenity

PRODUCT UPDATE

Lely offers insight and advice into new legislation

As the Sustainable Use Directive (SUD)’s legislation changes around sprayer testing near, Neil Adams, head of training at Lely UK, explains how it will affect grounds professionals and offers advice on how to prepare.

Coming into effect on 26th November 2016, the SUD requires that all active pesticide application equipment has an NSTS Certificate.

NSTS is the National Sprayer Testing Scheme for the UK and satisfies the sprayer testing requirements of the SUD, which, mandatory throughout the EU, is designed to further enhance the high level of protection achieved through the entire regulatory system for pesticides.

Outlining what the new legislation entails, Neil says: “The NSTS test will become a requirement for all boom sprayers by 2016 under the requirements of the SUD.

“The legislation change applies to all sprayers, aside from knapsack and hand-held,” Neil stresses. “This includes boom, air blast and all vehicle mounted sprayers, as well as ATV mounted and those of less than three metres boom width.”

By 2020 sprayers of three metres boom width or more with an existing NSTS Certificate must have been tested within the past five years, by which point the requirement for re-testing reduces to every three years.

Sprayers of less than three metres boom width, however, only need to be tested every six years after 2020.

“The test not only ensures the efficiency of your sprayer, reduces costly downtime and creates savings in chemical usage, it also contributes to operator safety and accurate application,” he added.

The comprehensive NSTS test consists of 47 test items – the first 30 of which must be satisfied to receive a pass certificate –and covers all the application components of the sprayer to ensure the machine is working correctly and efficiently with further considerations of safety for the sprayer operative and the environment.

“Other important updates in the grounds industry include changes

in ‘grandfather rights’, which came into effect November 2015.

“Previously, anyone born before 31 December 1964 did not need a specified Certificate of Competence (CoC) to apply professional plant protection products (PPP). As of now, however, everyone requires a CoC to apply pesticides.”

Lely Turfcare Enquiry 180

See the earth move

The benefits for sports pitches, bowling greens, golf courses, around trees, parks and gardens are exceptional, simultaneously aerating for good drainage and allowing air to get to grass

roots to promote and maintain a healthy sward.

The company’s Terralift fleet is working throughout the UK providing long-term solutions while allowing immediate play on treated surfaces. The video of the Terralift at work can be seen at https://youtu.be/Dq7e8Ua6-gk

Terrain Aeration Enquiry 181

Terrain Aeration has released a new video which demonstrates how one metre depth aeration relieves compaction, waterlogging and panning.