Landscape & Amenity Product Update May 2018

Government gives green light for landscape apprenticeships

The Landscape Apprenticeships Trailblazer group of employers has received government approval to develop new landscape apprenticeship schemes in England.

The 20 employers came together last year, with the support of the Landscape Institute, to develop proposals for employer-led landscape apprenticeships.

The proposals were also supported by the Institute of Place Management. The two approved schemes are the landscape assistant scheme, a Level 4 qualification, and the landscape professional scheme –a Level 7 qualification leading to Chartered Membership of the Landscape Institute.

The Trailblazer group will now begin designing the apprenticeship standards to define the competencies required

for each apprenticeship. The group plans to consult on the draft standards in May this year, with the aim of having the schemes ready for delivery in early 2019.

Once ready for delivery, the schemes will be open to all employers who are interested in taking on landscape apprentices in England. Larger employers paying the Apprenticeship Levy will be able to use their Levy contributions to fund training costs. Smaller employers will have access to government funding.

Initially due to the fact that apprenticeships are a devolved policy area the apprenticeships will only be available in England.

The Landscape Institute is wishing to explore apprenticeship opportunities in other devolved nations in the future.

Institute, said: “We have had great support in developing this initiative from our board of trustees, advisory council and members, all of whom agree that apprenticeships can help us to develop new skills and talent for the profession and increase the diversity of new entrant.

to supporting the Trailblazer Group in their ongoing work to prepare these apprenticeships for delivery.”

opportunity to bring new talent into their business.

“We now have a lot of work to do now in making sure the apprenticeship standards refl ect the requirements of employers acrossthelandscapeprofession,” he added.

“This is really exciting opportunity and we look forward

New Ransomes HM600 features Müthing heavy duty flail heads

Building on the foundations of the Ransomes MP wide area mower platform, the all-new HM600 features a powerful 65.2hp Kubota turbo diesel engine and has been developed to meet the expanding needs of grounds maintenance teams.

The HM600, developed from the ground up by Textron Specialized

Poppy Smith, Head of External Affairs at the Landscape Vehicles, has a cutting width of 3.2m (1.6m at front) with all mowers engaged, combining a high cutting capacity with exceptional productivity.

In fact, the HM600 has the potential to save operators up to 21.5% on cost per each m2 cut over established less productive models.

The size and design of the HM600 brings new levels of versatility to flail mowing. It is superbly manoeuvrable, can turn fast and cut close to parkland furniture.

The fingertip control of individual units makes trimming around obstacles easy. Operators can then fold up all

Colin Pill, of lead employer Tyler Grange LLP and chair of Trailblazer group, said apprenticeships are a fantastic way to combine work experience with off-the-job training and give employers the

Landscape Institute

units securely to transport easily between work areas and access confi ned sites.

The unique combination of this versatility and productivity can eradicate the need for a second mowing team to travel to the same location.

“We have developed the HM600 to tackle some of the issuesthatgroundsmaintenance teams face such as extended cut cycles and an increase in the variation of topographies,” Lee Kristensen, Ransomes Product Manager, said.

“The HM600 features mulching technology from Müthing, ensuring a superior aftercut appearance, and an even spread of clippings even in wet conditions.Thecuttingunitsalso feature rear rollers so the option to stripe sports pitches or fi ner turf is available.”

The chainsaw of the future

The new STIHL MS 500i is the world’s first chainsaw with electronic fuel injection and a never-before achieved powerto-weight ratio. With the MS 500i, STIHL presents the world’s first standard chainsaw with electronically controlled fuel injection, consolidating its position as a technology leader.

The STIHL injection technology not only provides the chainsaw of the future with incredible torque, but also ensures rapid acceleration of the saw chain from 0 to 100 km/h in just 0.25 seconds.Thanks to the intelligent lightweight design, the MS 500i is also outstanding with the best ever power-toweight ratio - 1.24 kilograms per kilowatt, an exemplarily low value never achieved before by seriesmanufactured chainsaws.

Further details are available on page 5.

STIHL

Ransomes

The Government’s decision to give the official go-ahead to the landscaping apprenticeship Trailblazer project is a major cause for celebration and hope within the industry.

Creating a fit-for-purpose route into the profession for the next generation of landscape designers, architects and contractors is a significant moment for the industry.

It is vitally important that the industry has the wider recognition the apprenticeship scheme provides, but also that it has an important selling point to encourage the students of today and tomorrow that there is a future career worth having.

Those involved in the project deserve plenty of congratulations for their hard work and determination in driving the apprenticeship concept to this point. And what is even more important is that this scheme can evolve into the type of programme the industry needs and could also pave the way for similar schemes dedicated to other sectors.

The future of our industry rests on the shoulders of the next generation of talented professionals and this scheme will provide a solid foundation to make progress. This month we have our Professional Groundscare supplement which continues to showcase the world-class products and people we have in this country. From specialist turf care, to versatile machinery and championing future sector leaders, the supplement also includes some key product spotlights. Elsewhere we look at Work Wear and the urban environment, along with the usual monthly news round-up.

Paul Groves, Editor

Report calls for investment to be targeted at parks

A major new report, by researchers at the University of Leeds, into the future of the city’s parks, has recommended the council gets them all up to Green Flag or equivalent standard, saying those parks which reached the standard provided a better visitor experience.

The report - based on a survey of over 6,400 people across the city - calls for future investment to be targeted at the busiest parks that currently fall below this benchmark.

The researchers estimated that there are approximately 45

million adult visits to Leeds parks each year. Some 91% of the city’s population make at least one trip to a park per year, and over half of those who visit do so at least once a week.

Lead author Dr Anna Barker said: “Leeds, like many councils, has had to find funding for its parks out of a heavily-squeezed budget. We recommend targeting any available funds at community parks that do not yet reach quality standards.

“Our survey indicates that those public parks which meet quality standards are linked with enriched visitor experiences: people are more satisfied, feel safer and are more likely to say that spending time in parks is very important to their quality of life than people who usually visit a park that that was below the standard.

“Often what is needed is not eye-catching spending projects:

New head of construction for Kubota UK

Kubota UK, the market-leading machinery manufacturer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Glen Hampson as Business Development Manager for its market leading construction division. With over 15 years’ experience, Glen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Kubota UK, having previously been the Channel Development Manager for Doosan Bobcat and the Regional Distribution Manager for Caterpillar Inc.’s Mid-Tier Earthmoving Division in the Middle East and Africa.

At Kubota UK, Glen will be responsible for maintaining

and building on the company’s market leading position in the compact construction equipment sector, working in partnership with Kubota’s key national accounts and its independent dealer network across the UK, Ireland and the Nordics.

Kubota UK offers high performance and innovative machinery solutions including its KX and U Series miniexcavators, as well as its KC Series of tracked dumpers and its RT and RO Series of wheeled loaders.

Kubota UK

it might be that paths have to be levelled and flower beds tidied up. But the public benefits from those basic improvements can be substantial.”

Satisfaction with parks in Leeds was high, with 90% being either satisfied or very satisfied with the main park they visited. People who visited a park that was below the ‘Leeds Quality Parks’ standard were more likely to rate their experience as ‘very dissatisfied’ compared to people who had visited a park which met the standard (10% compared to 1%).

The authors make 16 recommendations, including measures to improve accessibility for older people and those with disabilities who were significantly less likely to visit a park. The study found that almost one third of people (29%) who did not visit a park put this down to their poor health or disability.

Dr Barker said: “Our research highlights the importance of accessible, good quality parks and green spaces throughout the city; where people of all ages, cultures and abilities can enjoy the vital leisure, health and wellbeingbenefi ts that parks afford.”

Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, executive member for environment and sustainability at Leeds City Council said: “We are delighted that our parks are popular with such a large majority of residents in Leeds and that 90% of people who visit them are satisfi ed or very satisfi ed with their quality.

“It’s great that the findings from this research back our key objectivetoensureallLeedsparks are up to the Green Flag standard. Wewillcontinueworkinghardto achievethataim.”

Green Flag

ISEKI UK & Ireland host official opening at new HQ

The official launch of ISEKI UK & Ireland has taken place at the new company’s base in Ipswich with ambitious plans in place to significantly increase the manufacturer’s sales across all sectors during the next 12 months and beyond.

For the last many years, the ISEKI product line has been distributed in the UK and Ireland by Ransomes Jacobsen operating out of their facilities in Ipswich.

The new ISEKI company has the ex-President of Jacobsen, David Withers, as its Managing Director and he is confident the market share of the ISEKI range of ride-on mowers and compact tractors will grow considerably as the existing dealer network is enhanced with new outlets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Safeplay helps Zaun break new turf

Norwegian artificial turf experts have turned to a British steel fencing manufacturer to support their move into installing MUGAs (multi-use games areas).

Safeplay of Torvastad in Rogaland county has become Zaun Limited’s reseller in Norway after it won the order to install a MUGA at a new upper secondary school in Bremnes.

Bremnes is a small town of 4,500 inhabitants on the west coast of Norway due west of the capital Oslo. The town has a strong culture for sports and especially football – one in 4.5 inhabitants is a member of the local sports club – and has fostered several top-level players despite its small size.

The MUGA is 24x12m and incorporates specialist sports fencing with basketball overpanels at either end.

Zaun’s Duo8 Super Rebound forms a robust play area that is highly durable, low maintenance and ‘graffiti-proof’, with great rebound properties similar to a wall and rubber inserts between panels and posts to keep ‘rattle’ during play to a minimum.

Safeplay Sales Manager Eivind Furlund said: “The MUGA was an obvious addition to the new school – with really quiet fencing that rebounds well yet allows teachers to see what’s going on on-court.

“It’s been a really encouraging first collaboration with Zaun and

we see a real market opportunity: according to the Norwegian Football Federation there are 2,632 MUGAs in Norway.”

Safeplay was founded in 2007 and boasts the Playtop agency

Since being founded in 1926, ISEKI has contributed to the modernisation of Japan’s agricultural industry as a fulltime manufacturer specialising in farming machinery.

ISEKI prides itself on extensive research and development that is matched with high quality manufacturing and assembly processes to produce a range of machinery for today’s demanding applications in many global markets.

ISEKI UK

for the playground market and decades of combined experience in artificial turf. It has already ordered a second MUGA from Zaun for installation in Norway. Zaun

New Scotland and Northern Area Territory Manager for Kioti

Kioti UK has appointed Richard Green as Area Sales Manager to cover Scotland and Northern England.

Richard is based in central Scotland and brings with him a large amount of knowledge and experience of compact tractors and the groundscare industry.

Richard has the advantage of already being familiar with the Kioti range of products having sold them successfully in his previous employment.

Richard also has experience in the agricultural and construction industries.

Kioti

Schools wanted for exciting new Teacher Training Project

Sport England is looking for up to 50 secondary schools to take part in a pilot project designed to give pupils a more positive experience of Physical Education and sport.

The pilot, which is in partnership with the Teaching School Council, is being put together to help shape a national programme that will offer specialist training and mentoring to at least two teachers in every secondary school in England by 2020.

Selected schools will receive a package of support and resources that will include funding, workforce training and mentoring. Insights gained through Sport England’s Youth Personalities work have highlighted, that while some young people are getting an enjoyable experience of PE and sport in school, not all are, which is impacting into their adult lives due to the negative experience they had in secondary school.

Sport England

Land Trust join forces to uphold Garden City principles

The Land Trust in partnership with over 50 organisations –including councils, professional bodies, trade associations, charities, developers and designers – are calling on the government to reinstate a reference to Garden City principles in the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), demonstrating its continued support for those delivering new Garden Villages, Towns and Cities.

The current NPPF requires local authorities to consider whether large-scale development (such as new settlements or extensions to existing villages or towns) which follows the principles of Garden Cities is ‘the best way’ of achieving sustainable development in their area.

The NPPF provides essential guidance for local authorities in their decision-making processes and is vital in securing high placemaking standards. A commitment to the Garden City principles is not set out anywhere else in government policy.

The joint statement reads: “The nation faces an acute housing crisis. To address it we must urgently build the high-quality homes and communities that we need at a price people can afford.

Centenary Flowers

Commemorating WW1

The year 2018 marks the centenary of the ending of World War 1. Many local authorities, parish councils, golf clubs and schools will be marking this historic occasion with a range of commemorative events.

Flowers have always been a powerful, visual symbol in commemorations and celebrations so Rigby Taylor has introduced a special Euroflor Commemorate flower seed range headed by a distinctive mix named ‘Honour’.

All the mixtures come in 1kg packs that cover up to 500 square metres.

“Meeting the nation’s housing needs involves more than just delivering housing unites – we need to create beautiful places which offer a wide range of employment opportunities and genuinely affordable homes, while enabling more sustainable lifestyles. The Garden City principles can deliver all this and are underpinned by a financial model which not only enables fast delivery but puts people at the heart of delivering new places and provides the resources for the long-term stewardship and maintenance of a high-quality public realm and high-quality community facilities.

“The current National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) commits to the Garden City principles by making them a consideration when planning for growth and new communities. We are disappointed to see that the draft revised NPPF, published for consultation on 5 March 2018, has deleted reference to these important standards. The NPPF is the key expression of government policy, and this commitment to the Garden City principles is not set out elsewhere. The NPPF is essential guidance for local authorities in their decisionmaking processes and is vital for negotiations on land prices and in securing high placemaking standards.

“This deletion has caused uncertainty across the sector on the status of the Garden City principles, particularly when many local authorities, communities and the private sector have made a commitment of delivering new Garden Villages, Towns and Cities, and the government has announced the delivery of a further five new Garden Towns.

“We are calling on the government to reinstate the reference to Garden City principles in the revised NPPF, demonstrating the government’s continued support for those delivering new Garden Villages, Towns and Cities.

“Re-committing to the Garden City principles in the NPPF is the starting point to unlocking a new generation of highly sustainable places that meet housing, employment and quality of life needs while promoting innovation. There is cross-sector and cross-party support for such measures, and we urge the government to act now to secure an inclusive and resilient future for the nation.”

A Commemorate leaflet and the 2018 Euroflor 56 page brochure is now available on request or from the Rigby Taylor website. Just click on ‘Literature’ and then e.books.

Rigby Taylor Limited

Freephone 0800 424919 Website: www.rigbytaylor.com e-mail: sales@rigbytaylor.com

Honour

A patriotic combination of red, white and blue annual flowering species

Souvenir

All red Poppies, the commemorative symbol for UK and Commonwealth soldiers

Bleuet de France

All Cornflowers symbolising the grey/blue uniforms issued to young French soldiers arriving on the battlefield

Hope

A combination of long-flowering species to symbolise longevity and hope

Peace Gypsophila and other white flowers are the eternal symbol of peace and the signing of the armistice

Alliance

A combination of red and blue flowers symbolising the alliance of UK and French troops

The Land Trust

Capel Manor College celebrates a double win

Capel Manor College is celebrating twice over after receiving a GOLD award and BEST IN SHOW for their garden design at this year’s Young Gardeners of the Year competition at the Ascot Spring Garden Show over the weekend.

The annual competition, now in its eighth year, is organised by TV Gardener David Domoney in association with The Prince’s Foundation for Building

Community. These annual awards celebrate the best of young British talent in garden design and offer students a great opportunity to create show-stopping, sustainable gardens seen by thousands of visitors at the Garden show.

“Our apprentices worked brilliantly as a team and their hard work paid off, winning both Gold and Best in Show. We are so proud of what they have

Technology breakthrough keeps STIHL at cutting edge

The STIHL Group develops, manufactures and distributes power tools for professional forestry and landscape maintenance, the construction sector and private garden owners. The product range is complemented with a selection of power tools for the garden, previously sold under the VIKING brand and fully distributed under the STIHL brand from 2019.

In 2017, STIHL achieved a worldwide sales volume of 3.8 billion euros with a workforce of 15,875. The new STIHL MS 500i represents another world-leading innovation in the company’s long history of developing cutting edge breakthroughs. Together with the many additional design optimisations, there is a substantial increase in operator comfort with the next generation chainsaw.

The reduction of gyroscopic forces provides the 80 cm³class high-performance professional saw with dynamic manoeuvrability, which is a particular advantage during limbing. This makes the professional big timber harvester easy to handle in all disciplinesfrom felling to cutting to length.

The MS 500i has exceptional starting behavior and provides optimum engine power right from startup. The engine does not

need a carburetor, since the fuel metering is done using a sensor, and automatically adapts to the different operating conditions, no matter what the altitude and ambient temperature. For professional users, every gram of weight in the hand counts. For this reason, STIHL applies lots of engineering know-how to reducing the system weight (i.e. the weight of the dry chain saw including the cutting attachment.)

In pursuit of this goal, redesigned cylinders, slimmer chain sprocket covers and consistent changes of material for other components, in the engine units in particular, as well as the development of lightweight guide bars have enabled substantial weight savings –naturally without compromising on ruggedness or service life. The result is lower system weight and easier handling.

A preview of the new MS 500i will be given at the Arb Show, Westonbirt Arboretum from 11 to 12 May 2018. It will be available to forestry professionals worldwide from the beginning of 2019. Due to the exceptional level of interest, the machine will already be available in selected markets, including Germany, in limited quantities in time for the 2018/19 season.

STIHL

achieved” says Julie Dowbiggin, Garden Manager at Capel and lead advisor to the team.

“Feedback from the judges was very positive, the garden had an exceptionally high standard of finish, a well thought-out design and the planting scheme ticked all the boxes for sustainability.”

The Capel Manor College and Gardens apprenticeship student team’s design ‘Kelleway’s Corner’,

showcases what can be achieved in an urban garden with a touch of equestrian as a subtle salute to the competition’s racing venue.

Capel Manor

The details at a glance:

Fi rst chainsaw with STIHL Injection - Huge advancement in engine development. The MS 500i is the first ever seriesmanufactured chainsaw with an electronically controlled fuel injection system. The high-torque machine provides optimum engine power right from startup. It provides powerful performance and the saw chain accelerates extremely rapidly - from 0 to 100 km/h in just 0.25 seconds.

• Best power-to-weight ratio of all classes - The STIHL MS 500i is a lightweight within the ranks of professional saws. Thanks to intelligent lightweight design, as well as an extremely high engine power, it excels with an exemplarily low power-toweight ratio at 1.24 kg/kW. This value is unique within all displacement categories.

• Easy starting and sensorcontrolled fuel mixing - The MS 500i is very easy to start in all operating conditions, and automatically adapts to different locations of use. The sensor-controlled fuel mixing

ensures that the mixture is adjusted optimally for the oxygen content in the air right from the first ignition.

• Improved ergonomics and practical details make work easier - The innovative flywheel with a reduced installation height and lower weight reduces the gyroscopic forces that arise during operation. Together with the low overall weight, the resulting dynamic swiveling behavior of the machine, which is a particular advantage for limbing, makes the ideal guidance of the tool along the trunk easy.

This is also supported by the new bumper spike geometry. The raised plunge bar on the fan housing - parallel to the axis of symmetry of the guide bar - makes directional control and tool guidance easier when plunge cutting. Captive nuts on the chain sprocket cover make changing the chain straightforward. Professional big timber harvesting - from felling through cutting to length to limbing - is a simple task with the new professional saw.

Rigby Taylor’s Euroflor brings costeffective colour to local council areas

In London, for example, the flowers played a key role in Islington Council’s winning (Gold Medal) entry into last year’s London in Bloom competition, while for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council the Euroflor mixes “provided expansive banks of colour that lasted much longer than bedding plants and were so much more cost-effective”, according to Head Ranger Dave Askey.

Supplied by Rigby Taylor, the company at the forefront of supplying innovative products for the amenity market, the Euroflor seeds were deemed a vital part of Islington Council’s London in Bloom entry.

Almost 300 miles away in Teesside, Stockton Council –which is a regular user of Rigby Taylor sports ground grass seed, line-marking and amenity products – planted the seeds in seven areas around the borough and, says Dave Askey, “we received lots of compliments”.

Councillor Mike Smith, the council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The wildflower displays were very colourful and eye-catching. We planted them at prominent locations around the borough and got some great feedback. But it’s not just residents who enjoy them – they’re popular with bees, butterflies and other insects, too ”

How metal railings differentiate a housing development marketing suite

You’re a landscape architect, you’re designing the external works for your next housing estate development for your construction client and you want to impress. This article, by Phil Ball from metal Railings and gates manufacturer, Alpha Rail, explores how metal railings can differentiate a housing development marketing suite.

When you begin the design process and you’re having a flash of creative brilliance and inspiration, installing metal railings and making them a

feature of the development is probably the last thing you’d consider in order to create the right first impression to the potential buyer.

However, more often than not, once the show home is complete, and the marketing suite has been opened, it can be quite some time before the surrounding plots begin to take shape and give a positive impression.

This means that the show home has to have the essential ‘wow’ factor such that potential new home

owners can visualise what their dream home could look like once thekeyshavebeenhandedover.

They will obviously be thrilled to have the choice of kitchen, bathroom and other internal fi ttings, but as more and more of home owners turn to the landscaping and perimeter security considerations, you can see how metal railings begin to feature more and more in the choice of decisions.

Alpha Rail

Meet the challenges of mowing head on

STIGA front-cut mowers offer cutting edge solutions for any large garden or estate, with innovative options the Park Range represents the ultimate choice in lawn and garden maintenance.

The unique 50:50 articulated (rear wheels exactly follow the front wheel tracks) steering makes these mowers agile and precise perfect for manoeuvring around more complex gardens; easy to steer around rocks, trees, flowerbeds and confined spaces.

All mowers within the range feature hydrostatic transmission as standard providing smooth speed control by the simple adjustment of the pedal pressure; no gear change, levers or knobs required.

Powered by a Briggs & Stratton, Stiga, Hatz or Honda high performance engine these mowers provide superior cutting with top mulching performance. With a choice of advanced Combi cutting decks to choose from, the working widths vary from 85 –125cm and have been aerodynamically designed with two

or three blades to give the best mulching effect.

New to this season are the 110 & 125cm Combi Pro EL Quick Flip decks which are wide and powerful with three freely rotating blades, electric cutting height adjustment and pivot wheels that make them even easier to turn. The key selling feature is the Quick Flip system that allows the deck to be quickly flipped for cleaning and servicing with minimal effort.

Thanks to the unique RAC Quick Connect system available as standard on all Park models, you can switch implements in minutes. No tools are needed –just click them on and off! With a selection of seasonal implements ranging from sweepers, snow blades, flail mowers, rakes and carts these mowers are truly versatile.

The cutting edge reliability is assured by the quality of all the mechanical, electronic parts and components of the overall machine construction. The STIGA Park range is intended for a long-life span and is offered with a 5 year domestic warranty.

As the ‘Go To’ brand for those who work in the park and landscaping industry STIGA’s Park PRO range excels in providing all that is needed for lawn care professionals.

The ultimate combination of raw power, versatility and perfect precision the Park Pro front cut mower is made to get the job done.This range features the following models and each has a 1 year commercial warranty:

• Park Pro 340 IX - powered by a 570cc twin cylinder

Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 18 engine

• Park Pro 540 IX - powered by a 688cc twin cylinder

Honda GXV 660 engine

• Park pro 740 IOX- powered by 724cc twin cylinder

Briggs 7 Stratton 8270 Professional Series engine.

Rigby Taylor

STIGA

New wildflower mixture produces fast-to-establish,

meadow habitat

Germinal has launched a new wildflower seed mixture, specifically designed to produce a fast-establishing sward of UK-native wildflowers and meadow grasses

The new seed mixture, Everyday Meadow, contains 18 wildflower species and six grasses. Unlike most traditional meadow mixtures, which typically

contain 80% grasses and 20% wildflowers, Everyday Meadow contains a ratio of 90% grasses to 10% wildflowers: by increasing the grass content and only using annual species of wildflowers, Everyday Meadow is faster to establish.

Everyday Meadow produces a denser habitat thanks to its ability to be sown at 15 g/m2. Compared to most meadow mixtures, which are usually sown at 5-10 g/ m2, Everyday Meadow rapidly creates a thick, attractive canopy, thereby enabling landscapers to tick another job off their checklist without having to worry about sparse or slowly developing vegetation cover.

All 18 wildflower species are indigenous to the UK and have been selected for their disease and stress tolerant characteristics which make them perfect for urban and sub-urban environments.

Toro introduces new Proline mower

Toro, a global leader in turf and landscape maintenance equipment, has announced the launch of the new 53cm heavy-duty Proline mower (model 22280).

Available now, the new model has several enhanced features, including simplified controls and improved ergonomics for operator comfort.

The Toro Proline range is well known for its ability to withstand the demands of professional gardeners, landscapers and municipalities.

The latest mower in the line focuses on durability and minimising hand-arm vibration and achieves a low hand-arm vibration of only 2.7m/s². This enables nearly 7 hours of continual use every day before exceeding the EAV.

The Proline 53cm features a 3-speed transmission system and Blade Brake Clutch (BBC) system, powered by a commercial-grade Kawasaki FJ180V KAI engine, in addition to a cast aluminium cutter deck that is designed to withstand the rigors of commercial mowing whilst minimizing overall weight. Model 22280 comes with a one-year commercial warranty.

Christopher Cooper, Product Marketing Manager from Toro, said: “The launch of the new Proline mower demonstrates the continued innovation we offer at Toro.

The latest model aims to reduce handarm vibration, remaining compliant with health and safety regulations, and keeping it comfortable for the operator. Users will see a great improvement in performance with this new model.”

Toro

Timberwolf launches new variable tracked chipper at the Arb Show

Timberwolf launched the new TW 280TVGTR at the ARB Show 2018 at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum.The TW280TVGTR features Timberwolf’s renowned TW 280 performance with the ability to move the tracks in and out, raise the height of the machine off the ground and alter the angle, making tackling difficult ground conditions easy.

The Wolftrack variable tracking system features heavy-duty twin arms supporting each track, with dynamic control over track width, ground clearance and machine tilt angle, giving you greater control and comfort, particularly whilst navigating uneven and sloping ground up to 35 degrees.

The extra-wide feed funnel and open top section combine to

provide users with better visibility and ease of feeding, whilst the class-leading 280mm by 210mm in-feed aperture can process over 6.5 tonnes per hour. There’s also Timberwolf’s legendary ‘no-stress’ auto-feed control for smooth operation, combined with a heavier rotor giving added inertia to get the job done quicker.

Designed with the user in mind, the TW 280TVGTR has a low vibration and ergonomically designed ride-on platform for ultimate comfort and safety. There are also additional safety controls, such as reverse feed rollers overriding the stop bar or the carefully positioned air filter intakes to draw in cool, dust-free air. The devil really is in the detail.

PERFECT EVERY BLADE.

The Ransomes Mastiff.

The Ransomes Mastiff is the premier sports surface and pitch heavy duty roller mower powered by a reliable 9hp petrol engine. Able to produce a distinctive 91cm pristine striped finish, the Ransomes Mastiff continues its legacy of a better, more consistent cut – day in and day out.

Arrange a demonstration by contacting your local dealer at: www.ransomesjacobsen.com or call 01473 270000

reliable and attractive

Germinal

Timberwolf

Colour combinations at your fingertips with AkzoNobel

AkzoNobel knows that supplying a range of colours and finishes is a crucial component of their everyday business in ensuring the professionals they supply are always given great choices.

Providing a rainbow of colour choices is AkzoNobel’s Joinery Colour Classics range (JCC). This stunning set of colour choices combines their most popular translucent stain colours available in Europe with complimenting opaque shades in one fully comprehensive collection.

This collection not only simplifies the design process and ordering, but also facilitates communications between manufacturers, building owners and architects.

The Joinery Colour Classics are ideal for the industrial coating of dimensionally stable wooden constructions for exterior applications. A perfect enhancement to JCC is AkzoNobel’s Joinery Colour Classic Plus (JCC+) where they have produced a veritable cornucopia of colour options, which is the ‘real plus ‘in this range.

This brilliant cross-referenced system means you can select the desired colour you want, and it becomes instantly clear at a glance which coloured primer and which coloured top coat will be required. With 10 coloured primers and

10 final coats, a total of an incredible 100 colour shades are available offering increased combinations of base stains and topcoats enabling more colour options as a final appearance.

In making it easier for industry professionals and users alike AkzoNobel have also produced an opaque easy-to-use way of accessing their formidable RUBBOL Colour Collection. It’s the simplest way to see and choose from a concise selection of choices.

The RUBBOL sets show a variety of popular colours for opaque coating systems. It’s where the most popular choices from around Europe can be found.Again,allinoneplaceand at your fingertips.

AkzoNobel fully embraces the concept of garden colours by producing the Never Ending Impressionsrangewhichdelivers afascinatingworldoftranslucent coloursmainlydesignedforsemi or non-stable exterior timber components.

TheirNeverEndingImpressions

NEIcollection,developedatthe AkzoNobel Aesthetic Centre, shows the entire spectrum of harmoniously balanced colours from subtle to truly vivid. Effective wood protection and a naturally beautiful colour collection are typical features of these translucent coatings.

Suitable for most garden construction applications including; cladding, sheds, fences, decking and garden furniture treatments is Sikkens CETOL WF 771 from AkzoNobel. It’s technical qualities, ease of application, colour vibrancy and troublefree maintenance make it a perfect choice for a selection of applications where UV light and moisture are an issue.

AkzoNobel

Pellenc awarded for factory transformation

Following transformation of its state of the art factory in Pertuis, France, the Pellenc group has been presented with the Industry Showcase of the Future award.

Since the Pellenc group was created in 1973, the company has based its development on a policy of constant innovation. The group’s ability to be able to anticipate changes in its markets has led to the registering of 1081 patents –winning numerous awards for the excellence of its products.

A forerunner when it comes to lithium-ion technology, Pellenc has established itself in the “Zero Emission” professional power tools market. The company has seen rapid growth since 1973 and

in just the last five years Pellenc has doubled its turnover.

With a policy of investing 10% of its turnover back into research and development, the group is committed to continually developing its industrial processes and this led to the transformation of its factory.

Pellenc products are exclusively distributed in the UK by Etesia UK.

Etesia

Fine porcelain pointing made easy with vdw epoxy paving grout

Another great job by the real professionals at Arbour Design and Build, led by Richard Bickler and using GftK’s vdw 815 Paving Joint Mortar that is ideal for grouting these top quality Emperor Limerick Porcelain slabs of larger format paving (larger format generally means the paving units are larger than 400 x 400mm).

In addition to its ease of application and high performance and durability in service, this advanced material is specifically designed for narrower joints (down to 3mm) and bonds tenaciously to dense substrates like this vitrified porcelain.

As with all of the range using GftK’s Epoxy Bound technology, the product’s ease

of slurry application onto the pre-wetted paving, also allows grouting and finishing to continue in bad weather, even in the pouring rain for that urgent opening ahead.

NCC Streetscape

Rain Bird introduces highly versatile XLR

There are many large area installations where the ability to water quickly in the most efficient way is critical.

With the Rain Bird XLR waterjet series, users can choose solutions that will save water, time and money in large sports field and arena irrigation as well as dust and pest control.

The XLR Series has a powerful throw and different trajectory angles - fixed 24° or 44° units and a 15-45°adjustable unit. The XLR 24° unit is designed for applications such as sports field irrigation and has a throw range up to 54 metres.

Rain Bird

ICL fertilizers cure the greens at Blackwell Golf Club

After some shading issues were resolved at the exclusive Blackwell Golf Club in Worcestershire, Head Greenkeeper Rhys Thomas has since restored the greens to their full health thanks to a range of ICL fertilizers. Blackwell Golf Club will be celebrating its 125th anniversary and throughout that time the course

hasn’t changed much from the original 18 hole design.

“Following a ecology report from the STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute), we decided to remove the trees around the greens and tees that had been planted 50 years ago,” says Rhys. “The trees had had little maintenance and the greens were

in the shade and we’d struggle to get growth through the winter. Obviously, they would have a lot of wear during the summer and they never had an opportunity to recover.

“ICL’s Greenmaster Pro-Lite Cold Start is great for the spring,” Rhys continues. “We know that the greens will kickoff immediately once we get it applied in March. Previously, members used to say the greens were not playing well until June. The right products are being used now and the members have certainly noticed the difference.”

Rhys was also quick to highlight Sierraform GT K-STEP 6-0-27+2MgO+TE, which has a high potassium content to harden the turf in particularly stressful winter conditions.

Strong customer focus leads to launch of M600

Weedingtech, manufacturers of Foamstream, continue to develop their product range with the launch of their latest unit – the Foamstream M600.

The smallest system yet, the Foamstream M600 is a smaller, lighter and more compact version of the M1200, the municipal range’s larger offering.

It was designed specifically to satisfy the demands of contractors, councils and other organisations who have the need to treat remote, hard-toreach areas. The M600 will allow customers to make use of their existing contract or fleet vehicles, fitting neatly on to most UTVs and allowing for easy manoeuvring around small

spaces - especially within inner city, urban environments.

With its wrap around 270 litre water tank as standard, the M600 offers users full operational access to those hard to reach places without the need for bowser or mains water supply.

The M600 is not only the perfect solution for those looking for an effective and compact weed control system, but it allows for year-round use as a solution for all green and urban space management jobs.

Multifunctionality comes from interchangeable lances, providing the user with a solution for vegetation control and a range of sanitisation jobs such as

street cleaning, gum removal and power washing.

Launched in 2011, Weedingtech’s patented technology has led it to become the world leader in the herbicide-free weed control market, now servicing more than 20 countries across Europe and North America with its proven technology.

Weedingtech

Reminder to dispose of iprodione safely

With 5 June fast approaching, greenkeepers must use up or safely dispose of products containing the active ingredient iprodione.

Bayer head of sales, Neil Pettican, reiterates that it will be illegal to store or use unapproved iprodione based chemicals, including Chipco Green and Interface after 5 June 2018.

“If it’s not possible to use up products safely by this date, then it’s important to dispose of them responsibly,” he said.

“In light of this and to help users keep in line with stewardship guidelines for disposal, Bayer has developed a blueprint document to help greenkeepers build their own waste chemical disposal unit, known as the Phytobac.

“The system is similar to a biobed and can be filled with soil and barley straw to harbour bacteria, which feed on the pesticides to dispose of them

naturally, without harming the external environment.

“The blueprint to build a Phytobac can be downloaded for free from the Bayer website. However, if this isn’t an option, it’s recommended that a local hazardous waste company is

contacted to take away any unwanted chemicals.”

Neil also recommends that those looking for an alternative to iprodione based products should consider Exteris Stressgard.

Bayer

Hayter’s Christopher Cooper appointed president of AEA

Christopher Cooper, product marketing manager of popular lawn care brands, Hayter and Toro, was recently named President of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA).

In his new role, Christopher hopes to focus on encouraging more young people to pursue career opportunities in the industry and helping to further promote and advance the interests of AEA members.

Christopher started out in the industry at Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd, after graduating from college

as a design engineer in 2002. A year later, he joined Hayter as a design engineer and assumed the role as product manager in 2006 when Toro acquired Hayter.

Christopher is now responsible for product management and marketing of the Hayter and Toro consumer brands in the UK.

“The AEA is all about diversification and making sure member companies have a voice from within the association,” said Christopher. “As incoming President, I will be helping with the development of the AEA, and continuing the great work

that has been done. With the Board and Director General, Ruth Bailey, and through the member companies, we will also be looking at ways to help future proof our industry.”

Hayter

ICL

Times have changed. So have tools. And our new commercial range is all the proof you need. Take the EGO Power+ line trimmer. It’s powered by the most technologically advanced, petrol-matching, Lithium-ion battery system out there. It’s built stronger, with a carbon fibre shaft that’s as tough as it is light, and it’s engineered to handle the heavy strain of every day use. So don’t stick to what you know. Switch to the power of EGO. THE NEW EGO 56V COMMERCIAL RANGE. THERE’S NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT. #powerreimagined

Stunning Burlington slate setts jointed with vdw 850

This driveway and terraces surrounding this stunning private residence in the Lake District were all designed and laid using Burlington Stone’s ‘Cumbrian Black’, tumbled natural stone setts

The paving was all jointed and pointed in a single operation

using GftK’s vdw 850 paving joint mortar from NCC Streetscape.

The GftK vdw 850 was selected because it is extremely durable and easily able to accommodate frequent traffic over the driveway, including a high percentage of 4X4’s and visiting delivery vehicles of up to 20 Tonnes, plus it is fully resistant to de-icing salts and freeze-thaw cycling in winter time. Also important for the contractor, in this exposed location the jointing work had to be completed quickly and on schedule,withoutdelaysduetothe cold,wetweather.

Turning up the heat

The Thermory Collection, distributed in the UK by Round Wood of Mayfield, includes decking, cladding and flooring, all of which has been thermo-treated.

This chemical free process is used to transform ash and spruce from responsibly managed forests in North America and Europe into timber with a durability that rivals that of tropical hardwoods.

Thermo-treatment takes place in computer controlled kilns. Finished timber profiles are heated and steamed at

temperatures of up to 215°C in order to reduce moisture content, remove resins and bake out the natural sugars that can cause decay.

The result is an extremely durable, excellent value, timber with outstanding dimensional stability, suitable for a variety of external and internal uses. Thermo-treatment also infuses the timber with a deep, luxurious colour throughout, particularly suited to contemporary projects.

Local community centre car park goes green with SuDS solution

From a humble community centre to an award-winning eco-friendly hub, ACO Water Management helped to improve the sustainability credentials of Gamlingay’s local facility with a bespoke SuDS solution.

The community centre in Gamlingay, Cambridgeshire decided to create the ‘Eco Hub’ –a unique eco-friendly facility providing a variety of meeting spaces for community activities and local classes, alongside a self-contained corporate suite.

NatraTex Cotswold provides durable and versatile access roads

Winchester was the obvious choice for Bloor Homes to develop 200+ homes due to its well-known historical connections; from The Great Hall playing host to King Arthur’s Round Table, old Roman developments and links with the Austen family, most notably Jane Austen who was laid to rest in Winchester Cathedral.

The material used at Winchester Village was NatraTex’s flagship product, NatraTex Cotswold Classic.

NatraTex supplied its 6mm NatraTex Cotswold Classic hard stone to cover 2000m² of access roads throughout the development in June 2017.

A lot of thought has gone into the detailing at Winchester Village with block paving being used to link NatraTex Cotswold to conventional tarmacadam.

This has provided the new development with colourful, durable and versatile roads.

NatraTex is not a resin bound or bonded product but instead shares similar characteristics to that of conventional macadam, being laid at the same depth and with sub layers (base and binder course). This results in a multipurpose surfacing material that would

be perfect for use on highways, footpaths, playgrounds, MUGA, cycleways etc.

NatraTex is virtually maintenance-free and maintains its colour for a long-lasting finish. This smooth surface is also much safer than other alternatives as it is resistant to cracks and potholes, preventing any trip hazards.

Winchester Village gives a nod to Jane Austen who lived in the nearby town of Chawton just East of Winchester.

The houses in this development are named after characters from her novels such as the Darcy, the Bennet and the Cassandra.

NatraTex

Situated conveniently on the Cambridgeshire-Bedfordshire border, the Eco Hub would be open daily to members of the community completely free of charge. Therefore a car park of a suitable size was essential to guarantee easy access to the facilities on offer.

Sustainability was a crucial factor to consider throughout the whole project. The premise of the Eco Hub was to create a facility that was not only beneficial to the environment but also to the local community as well. From the initial build right the way through to the final product, the Eco Hub was economically constructed, and designed to operate in a highly efficient manner upon completion.

With an extensive portfolio of sustainable water management systems, ACO was the perfect for the Eco Hub project. ACO specified 648 sqm of its ground reinforcement system GroundGuard, creating six parking areas for over 40 cars.

Much of the building materials were recycled from the original building and those that were new were taken from renewable sources and this was very much the case for GroundGuard which offers the complete SuDS solution.

GroundGuard is a permeable, gravel-filled stabilisation system and is, crucially, made from recycled plastic mesh. The systemisover90percentporous, resulting in a free draining carpark with a highly efficient rateofsurfacewaterrun-off.The Eco Hub also filled the system with locally sourced gravel –making the finished installation even more environmentally friendly.

Another added benefit of GroundGuardisthatiteliminates theexpenseofhavingtoinstalla supplementary drainage system, helping to further reduce costs for the highly sustainable hub.

Following completion of the build, Eco Hub was fitted with a variety of renewable technologies including solar panels, ground source heating and a rainwater harvesting system. In fact, this unique ecofriendlyfacilityisacknowledged as being one of the most energy efficient community building in the country.

ACO GroundGuard is suitable for a wide range of applications including paths, drives, parking areas and access routes.

ACO

Round Wood

David Keegan Garden Design

NCC Streetscape

Zaun rocks on first Gibraltar order

Aggregate Industries lightens the load for bridge

Aggregates Industries’ unique Lytag lightweight concrete solution has once again proved its unrivalled credentials during use at the newly renovated Acton Swing Bridge.

The 84-year old bridge, which is cared for by the Canal & River Trust charity, carries the busy A49 road over the River Weaver Navigation, north Cheshire.

As part of a £1.5 million repair programme, the bridge recently underwent a complete refurbishment, including strengthening works to the underside of the bridge as well as improvements to its appearance.

secondary aggregate, being up to 50% lighter than normal weight aggregate, was the obvious choice for lead contractor, Kier Construction, working under the Canal & River Trust.

By using Lytag to replace the existing infill with the framework, the weight was

effectively reduced from 2400kg/m 3 to 1650kg/m3 giving increased flexibility and durability for Kier, whilst also ensuring an increased overall strength. This approach also negated the need for quarried aggregate, helping to reduce material requirements and ensure efficiencies.

With works now complete, the contract saw Aggregate Industries supply 100 tonne of 0/14mm Lytag; a tailored blend of aggregates specifically designed to offer a greater reduction in concrete density.

Aggregate Industries

Zaun supplied 350m of its Bow Top railings and five single gates – totalling about six tonnes – for the Four Corners play park, commissioned by the Government of Gibraltar and built by the Gibraltar Joinery & Building Services for the MoD base on the peninsula. The order was placed by Colomendy Ltd, a UK company with more than 90 years’ experience in export procurement worldwide and keeping supply chains moving.

The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar is a rocky headland on the southern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, a strategic location at the western entrance to the Mediterranean, where the straits between Europe and Africa are only 14km wide.

Gibraltar covers just over two square miles including the Rock of Gibraltar, at the foot of which is a densely populated city area of 30,000 residents.

The British Army has had a presence in Gibraltar for more than 300 years. The people of Gibraltar took up arms as the Gibraltar Volunteer Corps from 1915-1920 and again as the Gibraltar Defence Force shortly before the outbreak of World War II. This force later became the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, which remains as the only formed Army unit in Gibraltar.

In 1991 the last UK-based infantry battalion left Gibraltar, which is now used primarily by the British as a training area and a stopover for aircraft and ships en route to and from deployments East of Suez or Africa.

Zaun

McCue gives bollard a makeover

Bollards are a functional item, their sentinel-like presence a warning to pedestrians and drivers, their inherent strength offering protection to people and equipment.

McCue’s new Architectural Bollards complement, even enhance, the aesthetic of the environments they are deployed in. This is achieved firstly, by a sleek design that incorporates a bevelled top which can incorporate any brand’s design. Secondly, by offering companies a colour choice to suit their own aesthetic and brand preferences. And thirdly, by seamlessly incorporating safety and

practicalityintotheoveralldesign: aluminousstripilluminatesinthe darkandtheproductismadefrom 100% recycled polyethylene, assisting companies with their greentargets.

For areas such as outside dining, or where businesses simply want to provide a smarter, moreattractive environment to their customers, McCue’s Architectural Bollards at last offer a solution.

Around electronic chargers, which may be in use 24-hours, McCue’s product highlights, protects and enhances the overall feel.

In store, where aesthetics are critical, Architectural Bollards give businesses the control and look they require.

In car parks or at the front of storetheproducts’designaspects enhancethecustomerexperience, while maintaining a smart, branded edge.

Potted,ramraidresistant,orsurface mounted – and even with the option to be removable, McCue’s AestheticBollardsturnafunctional item into a multi-functional, aesthetically-pleasingobject.

Core to the project’s success was the ability to enhance the bridge’s structural integrity, in order to allow for heavier traffic, all without causing an increase

British steel fencing manufacturer Zaun is celebrating a first order to Gibraltar – to surround a new play park for military families.

Get instant access to your essentials

Snickers’ new ALLROUND Tool Vest is the ultimate in toolcarrying technology.

Versatile and adjustable, the ergonomic design features a wide range of hard-wearing pockets for a variety of tools fixings and

accessories. It’s lightweight, hard-wearing, comfortable and easy to keep clean.

The Tool Vest’s ergonomic comfort also looks after your back by providing for comfortable heavy tool carrying through the specially designed wide shoulders, elasticated back and an integral waist belt to take pressure off your shoulders. It comes with Cordura 500 reinforced front holster pockets for enhanced durability and easy-access angled rear holster pockets. There’s also Cordura reinforced breast pockets plus a knife fastener, an easyaccess padded mobile phone compartment and detachable ID badge.

Helly Hansen workwear is trusted by professionals

Since 1877 global workwear brand, Helly Hansen, has been protecting professionals who make their living in some of the world’s harshest environments.

For 2018, the brand’s workwear collection features new technologies and improved safety features, designed to meet the demanding requirements of those who spend their days on worksites –keeping them cool, dry and protected when it matters.

The ICU hi-vis collection offers an improved fit, function and mobility. Thanks to its 3M reflective striping, workers can adhere to Class 1 classification, remaining visible on the work site. The t-shirt is made with Lifa Active technology, which allows the wearer to stay dry and comfortable on the warmest of summer days, due its trusted and tested moisture management system.

This year there are additions to the Helly Hansen Chelsea Evolution line, including a complete modern tradesman collection packed with smart features for the safety and comfort of the wearer. The line now includes service pants, shorts, work pants and pirate pants. A highlight of the season is the new Chelsea Evolution Stretch - a lightweight and durable midlayer to keep you comfortable, flexible, and functional while on the job, complete with 4-way stretch material.

The 2018 Helly Hansen footwear designs provide a modern, lightweight and durable alternative to traditional nonslip footwear for all types of work settings. The new Magni Low shoe features a lightweight aluminum toe-cap, durable mesh, and hi vis features to keep you safe while giving you breathability and C-zone pro cushioning.

Helly Hansen

New MASCOT WORKWEAR Craftsman magazine

Sixty pages with inspiring articles, product reviews from fellow craftsmen all over Europe, and guides to help you choose the best products. The New MASCOT Craftsman magazine is available online, where video clips will bring the articles to life and offer you the full workwear experience.

Workwear with stretch is the new black, and it’s here to stay. What do your fellow craftsmen have to say about workwear with stretch? Read the reviews of the MASCOT four-way stretch trousers and see if you agree with their take on them. If you haven’t tried the trousers yet, what are you waiting for?

Craftsmen expose their workwear to different challenges depending on their trade. In the magazine you will find two articles about craftsmen working at the end of the world in Patagonia’s desolated areas, where the workwear is really put through the test, with stiff winds and lots of rain.

You can also read about mechanics working in the world’s toughest off-road race, Dakar Rally, and what the mechanics on Audi Sport’s factory-backed team in ABB FIA Formula E Championship demand of their workwear.

Mascot

Shirts that offer summer protection

When the heat is on, make sure you keep your cool and stay comfortable whatever the weather with the Scruffs’ Pro Active Zip Polo. Technically designed with hard working professionals in mind, the lightweight polo includes a moisture management system built to keep you cool and fresh throughout the long, hot summer days.

Setting the standard since 2003, Scruffs designs workwear and safety footwear for a new generation of trade professionals. Engineered with technical expertise to deliver comfort, durability and functionality, Scruffs workwear is made to work as hard as you do.

Snickers

Scruffs

A £1.5 million investment in state-of-the art packing facilities and additional storage capacity at Germinal GB’s Lincoln headquarters is part of a broader long-term strategy to increase efficiencies and competitiveness throughout its expanding forage and amenity seed businesses.

So reports Managing Director Paul Billings, who says the improved customer service now resulting from these latest developments is an essential step in future-proofing the company’s interests.

“We’ve installed an automated bag filling, palletising and pallet wrapping line capable of highly

responsive functionality and outputs of over 500 bags per hour,” he says. “We’ve also erected a new 18,565 square foot fully racked-out warehouse to effectively double our capacity to store finished goods.

“This means we can meet our customers’ orders for forage and amenity seed faster and more accurately, improving what is already renowned as a very dependable next-daydelivery service.”

Germinal GB’s amenity division breeds and supplies a range of landscape, sports turf and amenity grass cultivars, as well as an extensive selection of UKspecific wildflower varieties.

The company also distributes a range of state-of-the-art phased release and speciality fertilisers, backed up by FACTS (Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme) qualified support and advice.

Germinal’s amenity division has built a reputation for developing some of the best performing tennis, golf, football and rugby seed mixtures and for providing no-nonsense product support to the landscaping sector. It has also recently announced investment in a new crop research station which will further improve the quality and performance of its future seed mixtures.

Germinal

IOG expands GaNTIP NETWORK County FA sign up Replay

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has announced that Julien Morris, formerly head groundsman at Coventry City Football Club, has joined the IOG-lead Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GaNTIP) as regional pitch advisor (RPA) for the East Midlands Region.

His appointment extends the number of RPAs to 10, plus two key account managers, for the programme that aims to improve the standard of grassroots pitches and the skills of those who look after them throughout England and Wales.

Aged 31, Julien brings to the role an extensive skills set and knowledge base after beginning his groundsmanship career as a 15-year-old volunteer at his local cricket club (Attleborough Sports) and, during the subsequent 16 years, also being club chairman, secretary, treasurer and groundsman.

During his time at Coventry City – where he has been head groundsman since 2013 –Julien has progressed through the groundsmanship ranks, after joining in 2008 as an

apprentice. He holds a NPTC Diploma Level 3 in Sports Turf Management in 2011, as well as NPTC Spraying qualifications PA1, PA2 and PA6.

Commenting on his appointment, GaNTIP director Jason Booth, says: “Extensive work has been completed during phase one (2014-2017) which has led to clear aims and objectives from the sponsors - the Football Association, Football Foundation and the England & Wales Cricket Board - within phase two (2017-2021).

“Julien’sexperiencewillprovea valuableadditiontowhatalready isaveryskilledanddiverseteam of regional pitch advisors who are proving to be invaluable at grassroots level.” IOG

The Football Development Centre at Flegg High Ormiston Academy in Norfolk, known as the FDC@ Flegg, is one of three facilities run by Norfolk County FA.

Elliot Pride, the FDC@Flegg Development Officer oversees the full size 3G pitch at the site, managing everything from accounts, bookings and even getting hands on with the pitch maintenance. Helping Elliot to keep the surface looking and playing at its best are synthetic specialists Replay Maintenance.

A County Partner to Norfolk FA, Replay have been involved with the maintenance of the FDC’s sincetheoriginalfacilityopened in Norwich eight years ago. The service agreement see’s Replay conducting six Revive® visits per year to remove contaminates and de-compact and rotate the infill which is then regraded and dressed back into the surface. This results in enhanced porosity and improved playing characteristics.

Replay Maintenance

Dennis G860

Soil Biology provides the antidote to `Augusta Syndrome`

Every year, `Augusta Syndrome` can cause greenkeepers grief as the new golf season tees off.

Those pristine greens and fairways millions marvel at during the Masters tournament can trigger despondency in even the most upbeat greenkeeper.

Not at Harpenden Common Golf Club however, where, on the eve of the first of the Majors, the turfcare team is gazing over lush greens to rival those of Augusta National itself.

“We are enjoying our fastestever start-up to the season in our history,” states Course Manager Steve Brocklehurst. “The recovery we are experiencing is fantastic. Our greens look magnificent and members are amazed by the quality so early on in the year.

“In terms of colour, grass growth and coverage, the greens are in

their finest condition in my 45 years at the club.”

The transformation follows the club’s switch to a soil biology management approach introduced by treatment specialists Soil Biology Ltd.

“We’ve applied products unique in the sector to reduce and control rootzone pH,” explains Soil Biology lead scientist Hillery Murphy. “This allows the grass plant to take up vital nutrients such as calcium, manganese, silicon and magnesium more readily, even in cold conditions. It is these nutrients that support the biological process.

“The pH in the rootzone on many courses is simply not low enough to promote thatch degradation and soil biology.

Our Springload rootzone and Flex foliar treatments with added biostimulants reduce the pH of

the spray water and that of the rootzone to trigger the early start-up.”

As another cold front threatens to push back onset of the 2018 golf season, Harpenden Common and other courses that adopt Soil Biology’s twin-

pronged turf and rootzone treatment can enjoy watching top golf on Augusta National’s manicured holes without the notorious sector syndrome gripping them.

Soil Biology

Johnsons Premier mixtures give Liberty Stadium the edge

Liberty Stadium Swansea, the premier sports venue in South West Wales, is home to Swansea City Football Club and the Ospreys regional rugby team.

Although being sceptical, Head Groundsman Dan Kirton, made the switch to Johnsons Sports Seed in 2015 and now admits that it would take “something seriously special” to make them use anything else.

Between Johnsons Premier Pitch & J 4Turf mixtures, the team have achieved fantastic yearround results year on year. Due to their unique requirements, DLF’s Ian Barnett suggested using a combination of Johnsons J Premier Pitch during summer, and for the colder months, Johnsons J 4Turf.

Tim O’Hare Associates carry out Soil Resource Survey at RHS Garden Wisley

A Soil Resource Survey to determine the quality of soils that will be displaced by planned improvements and building works at RHS Garden Wisley has been undertaken by leading landscape and soil consultancy Tim O’Hare Associates (TOHA).

The development of the Welcome Building, construction of the National Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning and new Horticultural Service Yard are part of a wider £160 million investment in horticulture by the RHS.

It is hoped that the survey will identify soils suitable for new planting beds around the new visitor entrance, the

Welcome Building and once that work is complete, a range of horticultural developments, including the planting of an avenue of over 100 cherry trees, terraces and fi ne lawns. Low fertility soil for wildflower areas and soils offering good drainage for other planned gardens will also be required.

Senior Associate at TOHA, Tim White, carried out the survey and is optimistic that the soil can be put to good use: “The exciting developments planned for RHS Garden Wisley call for a range of soils and it makes absolute sense to utilise what is already available on site. That said, once we have determined the nature of those soils and

how they can be used to best effect around the garden, it is vital that they are managed carefully throughout the entire construction period to avoid degradation and inter-mixing.

“The Soil Resource Survey is only the very start of the process; a comprehensive Soil ManagementPlanwillbeneeded to ensure this element of the project is a complete success.”

The project will commence this summer with the upgrade to the Welcome Centre; the Hilltop redevelopment will commence in 2019.

Tim O’Hare

J Premier Pitch is the UK’s No.1 sports turf renovation mixture, containing Europe’s highest rated cultivars to deliver a sward with exceptional wear tolerance, density and rapid recovery under heavy wear. J 4Turf tetraploid rye ensures rapid establishment even under low soil temperatures making it ideal for autumn and winter overseeding.

Johnsons

Rody Kilbride named Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Three Dennis and SISIS bowls seminars still available

Dennis and SISIS enjoyed a successful series of bowling green maintenance seminars throughout April.

Hundreds of delegates have taken part in the 2018 series to date and there are still three seminars to take place in May.

Committed to educating greenkeepers and raising the standards of bowling greens, Dennis and SISIS have long supported the sport of bowls.

Their bowling green maintenance seminars continue to go from strength to strength with delegates praising them for helping make an improvement to their greens.

Attendees can expect tips on early spring maintenance of bowling greens, grant funding support, and choosing the correct grass seed.

A complimentary lunch, which signals the halfway point, offers great networking opportunities before attendees make their way outside to an on-the-green demonstration. The demonstration not only provides a perfect opportunity to see some of the sport’s best maintenance equipment in action but also brings together the morning education with the practical elements of applying it to the greens.

The remaining seminar schedule is:

• May 15th – Hunmanby Bowls Club North Yorkshire

• May 16th – Roundwood Sp orts & Social Club, Rawmarsh

• May 17th – Tadcaster Magnet Sports & Social Club, Tadcaster

All seminars start with registration at 9am. To register for the free and highly informative seminars, please contact Roger Moore on 01332 824777 or email roger.moore@dennisuk.com. Dennis

The winner of the Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award 2018, sponsored by ICL and Syngenta, has been announced as Rody Kilbride from Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo.

For a number of years, ICL and Syngenta have been proud sponsors of the Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award -which is part of the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board’s (KWETB) Greenkeeping Training Course.

Colman Warde, ICL Country Manager for Ireland, presented Rody with his trophy and a gift voucher at Naas Golf Club, Co Kildare.

He said: “As a company we are very proud to continue our sponsorship of this award. The training course is a fantastic

opportunity which helps prepare the students for a promising future in this industry. It was great to present the award to Rody, who is a good example of enthusiastic, young greenkeepers. It’s good to see so many students interested in this course because they are the future of the industry.”

For the duration of the 48week course Rody was placed at Beech Park Golf Club under the watchful eye of Course Superintendent David Callanan. With the student course now complete Rody has successfully gained a full-time greenkeepers job at Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Course in Co Limerick, with the newly redeveloped course, designed by Tom Fazio, due to open in April 2018.

Eighty turf professionals see Charterhouse machines in action

Charterhouse Turf Machinery, in conjunction with dealers Ben Burgess GroundsCare, recently entertained over 80 groundsmen and greenkeepers at an open day at Thetford Golf Club.

The day included a technical talk from the STRI and gave Turf Managers the opportunity to share best practices with other industry professionals, as well seeing several practical demonstrations from Charterhouse Turf Machinery and their products.

Four stations hosted talks and demonstrations on all areas of

surface maintenance including aeration, scarification and topdressing. Antony Kirwan, Course Manager at Romford Golf Club attended the event and added: “It was a very well organised and well attended event.Walkingroundthevarious stations,itwasgreattoseealarge range of machinery in action, not just from Charterhouse but also BLEC, Rink and Graden. The various presentations and demonstrations covered all areas of surface maintenance - I found it a very worthwhile day.”

Nick Darking, Sales Manager at Charterhouse TM added, “We had a superb day for it weathewise, and would like to pass on a big thanks to Ben Burgess for getting a great crowd together and helping to deliver a comprehensive and informative event.

“We find these sorts of gatherings very worthwhile, not only being able to show what our products can really do, but also to spend some time just talking to our customers.”

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

The informative, educational and interactive seminars combine insightful seminars and practical tips while a number of industry experts also take to the stage to discuss a wide range of key topics.

In the afternoon, delegates can gain a greater understanding of chemicals and fertilizers before the day concludes with the hugely popular Turf Clinic Q&A session - allowing attendees to ask advice about their own projects or any issues that they may have.

Sherriff Amenity host first ever myTurfClub

Sherriff Amenity recently hosted the very first myTurfClub event at Syngenta UK’s Jealott’s Hill Research Centre in Bracknell.

myTurfClub is a new initiative from Sherriff Amenity which has an ultimate goal of helping to improve the UK turf amenity sector stewardship of pesticide and products.

The event proved a great opportunity to meet other likeminded individuals, share and gain knowledge, learn best practices and ultimately enhance their education. Every delegate also gained 6 BIGGA CPD points by attending.

Commenting on the successful day, event organiser Joseph Dormer said: “We put this event together specifically because there is a need to become more pro-active in our industry. We need to be able to predict what is going to happen and have a plan in place because we are slowly losing all of the fi refighting products.

“This event is all about giving something back and to not just host an event where everyone is sat there staring at a presentation on a screen. We wanted to create an event which is all about getting the delegates to be a bit more interactive and ultimately try to ensure that everyone leaves

here with something - from the assistants all the way up to the course managers.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Syngenta for hosting the event. I’m planning on partnering up with all of our

key suppliers so there will be a number of different subject matters in this myTurfClub series. I’m sure this will be the fi rst of many great events.”

Sherrif Amenity

DJUKE enhance sports turf services with Ventrac 4500

DJUKE, the specialist sports turf maintenance company, managed by former Queenwood course manager Cameron McMillan, has purchased a Ventrac 4500 compact tractor and a selection of implements to enhance the company’s service portfolio to golf courses and other turfrelated businesses.

The new package of machinery was delivered and installed by local dealer, RT Machinery, based at Nether Winchendon, Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire.

time-intensive task for any onsite greenkeeping team. The ToughCut deck is excellent for managing these areas; it can cut through bracken, brambles and young saplings with ease and leaves a very acceptable finish.

“The Power Rake is very impressive. We had a demonstration on a foul day and it renovated the surfaces of machinery pathways and golf car paths with ease.

Bayer launches new total herbicide in Ireland

A new pre and early postemergence total herbicide, for the control of annual and perennial weeds, has been launched into the Irish market by Bayer, and is now available to purchase.

Pistol Flex brings a new active ingredient, to the market for broad spectrum control over a wide range of uses including treatments applied to open soil, gravel surfaces, fence lines, industrial areas and railway ballast.

Greg Collins, of the Bayer Turf Solutions Team, explains

that the herbicide’s dual active formulation contains 360g/ kg diflufenican and 10g/kg iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium.

“This gives a two-pronged approach to weed control, targeting germinating seedlings through residual action, and the leaves on contact,” he said. “The product provides excellent control for even the hardest to tackle weeds and is also compatible for use under a variety of tree and shrub species.”

Greg adds that using Pistol Flex can help amenity contractors

to minimise resistance as part of an integrated vegetation management (IVM) programme.

Pistol Flex is available to purchase from Unichem and Sprayclear Environmental and is supplied in convenient 10g sachets to easily add into a knapsackor500gpacks for those that need to treat a larger area.

Bayer

Headland’s WeatherCheck and C-Complex

5-2-10 brings greens back to life

Over the autumn and winter of 2016/17, Basingstoke’s Test Valley Golf Club was struck with a serious Fusarium attack which

left their greens weakened and scar damaged. Course Manager Dave Ross turned to Alex Hawkes of Headland Amenity

to help with the creation of a recovery programme - applied it at the right time to maximise the results by using the Headland WeatherCheck service.

“Looking back at it now, the greens didn’t go into the period as strong as they should have been, leaving them vulnerable to disease” explains Dave, who heads up a team of 4 greenkeepers.

“It was clear the damage from the Fusarium attack was extensive so I asked Alex for advice to put together a recovery plan, to try and give the greens a kick start into spring.”

Alex recommended C-Complex 5-2- 10, an organic mineral fertiliser capable of working in low temperatures making it an ideal spring starter.

Alex explains: “I told Dave how C-Complex could provide a burst of early growth, which could help to grow the disease scars back in. However, to give it the best chance, I consulted the WeatherCheck service to fi nd the optimum window of opportunity.

“As this was February I was not overly hopeful, however, I could see there was an uplift in ‘Growth Potential’ imminent so we organised a next day delivery of the product for Dave to apply – the products performance, coupled with the window of increased soil temperatures, delivered amazing results and gave the greens the kick start they needed moving into the main playing season.”

Headland Amenity

“We purchased the Ventrac to broaden our service offering to our growing client base,” he said. “Since establishing the company in 2015 we have become known as aeration and drainage specialists through our DryJect, Graden and PC Drainage franchises.

“We are now enhancing our range of services to help customers maintain everything within the boundary of their property.

“Our initial purchase included Ventrac’s ToughCut deck, the Power Rake and a Power Brush. Woodland management is a

“The Power Brush is typical of Ventrac’s attachments, easy to connect to the tractor and highly efficient in use. I can’t believe how compact, powerful and manoeuvrable the Ventrac is, whichever attachment is connected.

“Without doubt this addition to our fleet will enable us to improve the non-playing surfaces for our clients and provide business opportunities that were not previously open to us. I’m delighted with the machinery package and the superb service provided by Rupert Price and his team.”

Price Turfcare

Dry Patch on fine turf - causes and solutions

Many greenkeepers will have experienced localised dry patches developing on their golf greens during the summer months, and the use of wetting agents to treat these areas has become standard practice in golf green maintenance. It is important however, to distinguish dry patch from simple drought stress.

Dry patch is defined as an area of turf that dries out and becomes difficult to rewet even when copious amounts of water is applied. It is usually characterized by the presence of a water repellent soil. The source of this water repellent soil has been linked to fairy ring activity and also the breakdown of organic materials in the root zone as part of natural plant decomposition processes.

seems to be more prevalent today than 20 or 30 years ago, and supporting evidence is found in the increasing numbers of wetting agent products that are available primarily to combat the problem. The number of wetting agents continues to grow each year, but not too long ago only a handful existed, and they were used only in certain situations or on the worst hydrophobic soil conditions.

It is believed that we are seeing more potential for localized dry patch for a number of reasons;

Research into dry patch and water repellent soils has shown the presence of water repellent material within the root zone. These materials are waxy hydrophobic compounds that can attach to sand particles within the root zone and render it water repellent. If a soil core is collected from an area of dry patch or water repellent soil it is immediately apparent. An area of lighter, dry material that easily falls apart is seen (Figure 1).

Rooting is often compromised, and water dripped onto the surface ‘beads-up’ (Figure 2). However the material above and below the dry zone can be very receptive to water. The hydrophobic portion is often quite localized. If we compare sand particles taken from a hydrophobic region with sand from a healthy rootzone, under an electron microscope, organic deposits stuck onto sand grains can be seen where the sand is hydrophobic (Figure 3). Much less of this can be seen on sand particles taken from the normal turf areas. These water repellent deposits have been extracted from the hydrophobic part of the root zone using solvents and analyzed in the laboratory. They were identified as lipids and waxes which are known to be highly water repellent

substances by fairy ring fungi certainly fits with green keeper experience in the UK but it must be remembered that this is probably not the full story. Water repellent soils exist in agriculture and natural grasslands where fairy rings have not been recorded. They also exist in other situations such as in citrus orchards after fires. Other studies have indicated that fairy ring fungi are generally not involved but the buildup of water repellent materials has come from the production of organic acids created during the natural decomposition processes in thatch. It is likely that there is a range of contributing factors.

Figure 2: Water ‘beading’ over area of hydrophobic soil.

Drought stress is different; there is no water repellent soil present and the dryness is a consequence of other turf problems. For example, poor irrigation coverage may lead to drought stressed patches. Poor rooting from a variety of causes is another cause of drought stress, meaning the plant cannot take up the water which is available.

Most observers would agree that the problem of dry patch

Water repellent rootzones have always been present to some extent in sand based greens. But the problem has intensified as the specifications of sand rootzone and topdressings moved away from the inclusion of finetextured materials. This has been compounded by the amount of play our golf greens receive, and the stress which the grass is subjected to. In the ever increasing desire to provide year round high quality putting surfaces, cutting heights remain lower for longer and fewer inputs of water and fertilizer are made. Inevitably this has an impact on the grass and the rootzone. It is fair to say that water-repellent soils and rootzones will continue to be a significant problem for most golf course managers into the future.

The origin of these lipids and waxes coating the sand grains is probably not attributable to a single cause. However, there is strong evidence that previous fairy ring activity could be one factor, and sometimes dry patches on golf greens can be seen in rings and lines across the surface similar to old fairy rings. Also when turf cores are taken from active fairy rings and incubated in moist conditions, the fungal mycelium grows out from a layer in the core which corresponds to the layer in which the most hydrophobic sand is seen (Figure 4).

Linking dry patch formation to fairy ring activity and the production of water repellent

What can be done to prevent and control dry patch? The first step is to identify the primary cause. Is there an actual hydrophobic layer present – or is the turf just drought-stressed. The irrigation system should be checked and moisture meter used to adjust water inputs, cultural practices should also be employed to try and develop a deep turf root system, and alleviate any potential compaction. However, if a water repellent soil is present and this is likely in many cases then this will need to be addressed directly. There are a range of cultural approaches which will help to mitigate the situation; thatch reduction will limit the development of fairy rings. Coring and topdressing with suitable materials will also

help replace water repellent soil with fresh material. If dry patch is severe, reduce applications of materials containing iron-sulphate as this material is a desiccant and will further dry out these patches. Dry patch increases stress on the grass plant and so relaxing mowing height and rolling to increase ball-roll speed instead is a good policy. Species conversion promoting bent and fescue grasses which are deeper rooting rather than annual meadow grass which is prone to drought is also a good long term solution.

The immediate solution is to use wetting agents, and this approach has become standard practice in modern green keeping and they

are a very effective treatment for drought stress, dry patch and water repellent soils. The very first wetting agents were used on turf more than 40 years ago and the chosen materials were general purpose detergents and not designed for golf greens. Recent research by Universities and commercial organisations has led to the production of highly active wetting agents that offer an effective treatment for dry patch. The latest wetting agents can reduce dry patch to practically zero even when there are adverse factors such as poor irrigation, poor rooting and compaction. In many cases it is the wetting agent programme that makes all the difference in producing a top quality playing surface especially when it is combined with modern low input fertilizer and watering programmes. There are large differences between the wetting agents on the market however, so consider the choice carefully. Check the research, and select the right one for your situation. Remember a programmed approach of wetting agent application, which starts early in the season will provide the best results.

Figure 1. Turf cores taken from adjacent dry patch (left) and normal (right) areas

ICL

Figure 3 : Organic materials covering sand particles from water repellent turfgrass(left) and relatively clean sand particle taken from normal turf unaffected by dry patch.

Figure 4. Incubated turf core showing fairy ring mycelium . Note no mycelium present in surface or deeper rootzone.

Z Master 8000 offers a superior groundscare solution

Professional landscapers should look no further than the Toro® Z Master 8000 Series.

Delivering a superior quality of cut and a refined finish at more productive mowing speeds, this professional mower is ideal for large turfs.

The 8000 Series comes equipped with a high blade tip speed,

ensuring superb collation performance and a high-quality finish every time. Users will benefit from a longer mow time with the 28L fuel tank and the high-capacity collection system. The exclusive baffle design fills the 335L hopper evenly from back to front for maximum efficiency, meaning less time emptying and more time mowing. Mowing with ease in tight spots, the effortless

controls and out front deck design allows for comfortable manoeuvring where traditional zero turns can’t reach.

Become more productive with the mower as it has a ground speed of up to 5mph and a hydro drive system for efficient, precise control. Downtime won’t be an issue, as the professional mower boasts features that reduce the need for extensive maintenance such as a heavy-duty sealed gearbox and a simple, reliable belt drive system.

The rear discharge deck allows for trimming on both sides and keeps flower beds and foot paths free of grass cuttings.

The Z Master 8000 Series is the answer for a perfect cut in less time.

Derby and Chesterfield take delivery of fully equipped Roberine F3 Flail Mowers

Covering a large area of Derbyshire, Derby and Chesterfield councils have gone through a rigorous selection process when choosing a new fleet of commercial ride-on mowers to maintain parks and residential areas of the shire to the highest standard.

Both councils had very specific requirements with economy and performance being at the top of their priorities.

Fitted with an efficient 41hp Yanmar diesel engine and a Flexxaire reversible fan the Roberine ticks all the boxes for economy and performance. Having trialled other models from the competitors the decision makers at Derby and Chesterfield could not overlook the facts that were all pointing to Roberine.

The F3 flail mower offers a high quality of cut in all weather conditions across varying terrains

and is highly manoeuvrable around obstacles resulting in efficient performance and reduced down time for the Groundcare team. The flail mowing system also offers a range of other benefits over traditional cylinder and rotary mowers including a high level of finish in thick overgrown grass allowing the councils to maintain tidy grounds throughout the season with a reduced number of cuts.

The mowers were supplied by Nottingham based John Deere dealer Henton & Chattell (H&C). In cooperation with Roberine and Howard Marshall Engineering (HME), H&C will provide the aftersales support for the entire fleet.

New MU-Collect Vario mulcher from Müthing

Available now, Muthing say their new MU-Collect Vario mulcher offers professional grass cutting and mulching technology for landscaping applications.

Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Muthing range, says: “The new MU-Collect Vario gives you both possibilities; an optimal mulching result and perfectly tidy surfaces. It is available in working widths of 1.4 and 1.6 m for mechanical driving powers

of 20 to 40 hp, and hydraulically driven with 30 to 70 l/min.

“The M-Vario is able to achieve the best possible mulch quality and shredding performance, while also increasing the load capacity for the carrier vehicle, thanks to an optimised intake and housing form and the ability to steplessly adjust the shredding rates at the cutting bar.”

Simon Richard

Hayter

Roberine

Shrewsbury School continues to choose Dennis

Andy Richards, grounds manager at Shrewsbury School, has added to his existing fleet of Dennis mowers after recently purchasing three new Dennis FT510’s and two new G760’s.

Andy has been the grounds manager at the illustrious Shrewsbury School for nearly eight years and he and his team of eleven groundstaff tend to 120 acres of green space – three quarters of which are sports pitches. In addition to synthetic surfaces and other world class facilities there are ten grass pitches which cater for the School’s highly competitive sports teams.

The boys compete internationally in cricket, and Shrewsbury School boasts a string of historically strong football teams. Rugby is played at a high level and girls compete locally and nationally in hockey, netball and tennis. It’s no wonder then that with over 800 pupils, many of whom participate in sports, that the sports pitches endure an incredibly high amount of usage. This, however, does not keep Andy and his team from maintaining them to an exceptionally high standard.

“The trick is to be pro-active rather than reactive,” he says. “We try to keep the standards of our pitches to those of the football league. In fact, our first team football pitch is definitely better than the pitch I had when I was the head groundsman at a professional football club.”

Andy chooses to use a variety of equipment from Dennis to get the best out of his sports surfaces. For cricket square maintenance he uses his three Dennis FT510’s and for football two G760 mowers.

“This is my third batch of FT510’s and they work

extremely hard here,” he says. “We use them predominantly for cricket wicket presentation and through the cricket season we host 250 matches – they are used for every one of those.”

The Dennis FT510 is an interchangeable cassette cylinder mower giving users options to fit twelve different cassettes including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers and slitters as well as 5 or 10 blade cutting cassettes.

“We’ve got a wide range of cassettes and by having the three machines we have the ability to use a different cassette in each one. We might have a cylinder, a brush and a verticutter out at the same time so we can use them back to back. On other days, one of the team may just work all day on a wicket and they can simply interchange their cassettes without having to get a different machine out. It’s a massive time saver and it’s great having that versatility.”

For his football surfaces, Andy revealed that he is an advocate of hand mowing and that he uses his G760’s in conjunction with his Dennis Premiers: “I’ve always been a fan of the G760’s and originally we used them on the cricket squares. However, we started hand cutting the first team football pitch with them and we have the added bonus of using a

varietyofdifferentcassettessuch as the verticutter and brush.

“To allow us to mow more pitches by hand we use the G760’s alongside the Premiers which have a slightly wider cut and it gives us a good contrast with the G760 because that is slightly smaller and slightly lighter. When the pitches are wetterwecangetonwithaG760; on other occasions we may veer more towards the weight of the Premier.

“We try and vary what we do and it may depend on the usage and what games we have but it is ideal having a variety of machines.”

With such a hectic schedule, Andy was also quick to praise the reliability of the machines andtheback-uphereceivesfrom the Dennis team.

“We are such a busy school and we haven’t got any downtime at all. Fortunately we don’t have many problems and that comes down to the quality of the machines. The back-up from Dennis is really good and reassuring and I could pretty muchguaranteethatifsomething did go wrong, I know that something would be sorted out extremely quickly.”

Dennis

The professional choice for tractor mounted mowers

Spring may have been late in arriving this year but now the grass is finally growing and the cutting season is in full swing.

Regular maintenance of playing fields golf courses is essential and can prove time-consuming for the busy contractor or estate owner.

Italian manufacturer Agrint specialises in compact tractor mounted implements, producing robust but light-weight mowers which make short work of cutting larger lawns, estates and sports grounds.

Farm Tech Supplies in Hampshire has teamed up with Agrint to offer this range of high quality Italian implements through dedicated UK stockists. In late spring and early summer, one of

their most popular machines is the Bora flail mower. These are great for regular cutting, giving a fine lawn finish however, this versatile mower can also handle more overgrown areas of long grass, bramble and bracken.

From flail mowers and finishing mowers to backhoes and wood chippers, the Agrint range of groundcare machines are

affordable, lightweight and robust, making them ideal for a range of maintenance jobs on estates and large gardens. The full range of Agrint compact tractor attachments are now available for immediate nationwide delivery through their distributor network.

Farm Tech Supplies

MTD is talk of the Toon

St James Park has been a home to football in Newcastle since 1880. In that time the stadium, as well as the teams playing there, have gone through a number of transformations.

Overseeing the club properties for the last 17 years has been Facilities Manager Eddie Rutherford, who in 2017 upgraded the fleet of stadium pitch mowers to include three 34” Cub Cadet INFINICUT machines.

Although renowned for their green credentials, it was ultimately the superior quality of cut that saw the mowers become the most recent additions to ‘The Magpies’.

“I’d heard and read a lot about the Cub Cadet INFINICUT mowers in the trade magazines so got in touch with Vinny Tarbox for a demonstration, and straight from the off we weren’t disappointed” explains Eddie.

Over the last 5 years, Eddie has been driving a campaign to improve the green footprint of the club, which has seen lots of improvements around the stadium. “We’re running the mowers purely on battery power which, more than just delivering cost savings, means we’re running on clean, green energy compared to petrol alternatives -battery power seems to be the way forward for the industry.”

In addition to putting a big tick in the ‘environmentally friendly’ box, the quality of cut produced sealed the deal. “It was important for us to invest in machines that deliver the best and with the Cub Cadet INFINICUT the cut you get is second to none.”

The unique design and its adaptability to perform on any grass surface makes the INFINICUT the most technologically advanced mower available to turf managers in the last 40 years. With a dynamic

return floating head, variable cut rate, and flexible setup, the INFINICUT, together with ATT SMARTCut cassette, ensures a healthy turf and provides precise adjustment to deliver an exacting quality of cut.

Final word from Eddie, “Compared to the results we were getting from the previous mowers, the guys have noticed an increase in the quality of cut and finish by at least 25%. It’s when you think about all the years there have been lawnmowers, all performing at a similar level, then this one comes along and it’s that much different – it really is impressive.”

MTD

New additions to Flailbots

Bomford Turner added two new models to its Flailbot range in 2017 - a compact 40hp model, and the larger Supreme 70hp model.

Each of the two tracks can be independently extended by the operator by 250mm, widening the footprint to aid stability and grip and allowing the mower to operate on inclines up to 55 degrees.

Rubber and studded steel track choices offer optimum traction for different surface conditions, whilst automatic track tensioning prevents track loss.

To maintain the optimum cutting

2.05m standard flails, 1.28 and 1.65m forestry heads and a 1.45m rotary unit which can be fitted with a barrier mower disc.

A range of tools and accessories allow Flailbot to be configured for a wide range of applications, including stump grinders,

trench cutters, earthmoving, snow clearing and agricultural processing.

Remote control makes Flailbot ideal for use on hilly, banked and even mountainous areas, says Bomford Turner. With a range of up to 150m, the remote

unit offers precise joystick control of forward or reverse track speeds, from 0-7kph The unit also displays real-time data, including machine incline, attitude and speed.

Bomford Turner

Ventrac’s versatility continues to win support

Price Turfcare, the distributors of Ventrac in the UK and Ireland, highlight that the Ventrac 4500 has four different mowing decks that will appeal to the sports turf manager and with a unique coupling system, the experienced operator can switch between options in less than one minute.

The rotary HM and HP Mower Decks utilise a rugged all-steel frame design providing highly efficient grass discharge, moving more grass through the deck tunnel. With the removal of two pins beneath the cross frame, the deck can be easily tilted to a near vertical position for maintenance and storage. The HM decks come as 1.83 metre (72 inch) side discharge with an optional mulching kit available or 1.52 metre (60 inch) rear discharge..

AMAZONE versatility

Profihopper - five machines in one Mow, Scarify, Collect, Mulch and Roll. The incredibly tough, easy to manoeuvre Profihopper does it all.

Exceptional manoeuvrability Thanks to the compact design and intelligent 4WDi system, the Profihopper enjoys a 0-turning circle to get where others can’t.

Large hoppers means less emptying With an equivalent capacity of 1000 litres and the ability to empty at heights of up to 2.1 metres, non-productive time is kept to a minimum.

Clears rough ground as well as providing a lawn finish Even in damp conditions the renowned Profihopper delivers a perfect finishlong or short, wet or dry.

The Contour Mower, also in rotary format, features a 2.13 metre (83 inch) working width making quick work of any mowing job regardless of the terrain and without sacrificing quality of cut. Three rear discharge decks float independently and follow the contours of the terrain with up to 40 degrees of motion for each side deck. Full length rear rollers facilitate even cutting and striping and the flip-up deck design allows easy maintenance.

The MR740 Triplex Reel Mower is designed to be the ultimate trim and surround mower. With a 1.88 metre (74 inch) width of cut, variable speed hydraulics, standard back lapping valves, and offset capability, the MR740 includes many features to ensure superior, low-maintenance performance. When powered by the all-wheel drive Ventrac 4500 tractor with dual wheels, the MR740 can be operated on hills and slopes up to 30 degreesallowing the operator to go where no other reel mower can go.

While slopes and banks add aesthetics and dimension to any sporting arena, those same slopes can be very dangerous to mow without the right type of equipment. The Ventrac 4500 offers a unique combination of benefi ts that no other piece of equipment can offer, providing safe solutions to your slope mowingneedsongradientsupto 30 degrees.

Not only does the tractor frame articulate, it also pivots in the centre to maintain excellent contact with the ground and better weight distribution Its compact frame is designed with a low centre of gravity contributingtoitsslopeclimbing ability. For increased safety and stability on hillsides, add the optionalwheelextensions,which allow operationup to 25° or dual wheelsthatcantackle30°slopes.

With more than 30 different attachments, the Ventrac 4500 is a truly versatile power unit, designed to work all year round.

It features all-wheel drive, an articulatingframeplusthereliable 25 hp Kubota diesel engine providing unmatched versatility, power, stability and control to get a wide range of sports turf maintenancejobsdone.

Price Turfcare

Class leading features for new ISEKI mowers

The

is turbine driven providing uninterrupted high-performance grass transition into the collector, so ensuring excellent collection of long or short grass in wet or dry conditions whilst adding a degree of compaction.

These

The new collector, with a class leading capacity of 950 litres,

To experience the class leading performance of the SF range of mowers please contact your local ISEKI dealer or ISEKI UK & Ireland.

Iseki

Honda extends range of premium robotic lawn mowers

Honda’s addition of Miimo 3000, which features a host of enhancements, means it is now capable of handling lawns up to one acre and controllable via a smartphone app.

Aimed at those with larger areas of grass to maintain, the new range-topping Miimo HRM 3000 joins current models HRM 520 and HRM 310 in Honda’s existing robotic mower line-up.

With cutting width increased from 220mm to 250mm, it means maximum cutting area is up by 2,500 square metres to 4,000 compared to the Miimo 310.Cutting capacity is also up, by 87 metres per hour to 170 and cutting time per charge has more than doubled to 90 minutes.

Honda’s new and unique ‘Smooth Turn’ technology, available exclusively on the 3000 reduces non-productive turning time by allowing it to maintain forward travel and turn away from the boundary without stopping.

One of the most significant developments for the Miimo 3000 is wireless control through its own intuitive smartphone app. Using Bluetooth, and compatible with iOS and Android devices, the app allows programming of Miimo from a distance, making it easy and convenient to set operating times and adjust cutting parameters.

A further development for Miimo 3000 is the flexibility to position its docking station discreetly out of sight in a recess to the side of the cutting area, in a corner, or hidden away down a narrow grass passage.

Slopes and uneven work areas can be tackled easily thanks to the large drive wheels and an optimised centre of gravity to ensure class-leading traction, allowing operation on slopes up to 25 degrees (47 per cent). A direction sensor helps maintain a straight line of travel, even over undulating ground.

Mowers that won’t

Doing the job right is the main driver behind Team Maintenance Services’ policy in serving their customers.

This grounds maintenance contracting company is based in Cornwall and was established in 1998 by husband and wife team, John and Emily Julyan.

“Our contracts are mainly for schools and colleges, maintaining grass football and rugby pitches and external amenity areas for local authorities, said John Julyan, “we also have a PFI contract with Interserve and all our customers expect a quality job every time, on-time and that’s what they get.”

Reliable mowing equipment that provides a high quality

let

you down

finish year-in, year-out has been the prime focus for the company. They currently run two Major Swift Winged Roller Mowers, which have proven to be low maintenance and high performance - an important component in providing the best customer

experience. Both mowers are three-point linkage mounted and the largest model is a folding, 5.5metre cut with a folded transport width of just 2.0metres.

“The Major mowers are so reliable and effi cient to run,

commented John, ‘and if we need spare parts or product support, Major and our local dealer are there in an instant to sort it out - I can’t ask better than that.

Machines fit for all reasons from Grillo

Grillo manufacture an extensive range of mowing equipment all hand built to an exacting standard.

For banks and overgrown areas there is the Climber range of 2 & 4wd models to choose from.

If a manicured lawn type finish is required then Grillo produce some of the best collecting out front machines on the market.

Cutter deck sizes range from a small 80cm domestic machine to its top model the FD2200TS.

This has a huge 180cm deck with 48hp Yanmar diesel engine, 1400ltr hi tip collector and permanent 4wd with auto diff lock.

READER ENQUIRY 99

Honda

Grillo

Pedestrian machines from STM

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

This is a well-established and popular approach to such conditions, with many units sold per year for use by councils,

estatemanagementprovidersand hire companies, says STM Co.

SWZ pedestrian mowers are available with 76cm, 1.2m and 1.3m rotary cutting decks, or 76cm, 90cm and 1.2m fl ails, with the twin wheel attachment is an optional extra.

STM

Goodwood estate goes Toro

Goodwood has returned to Toro as it continues in its ambition to develop a ‘super fleet’ for its 12,000-acre Sussex estate.

The last time we caught up with Phil Helmn, general manager of sports turf and grounds at the all-encompassing Goodwood, he had taken delivery of a fleet of Toro fine turf machinery for The Downs and The Park golf courses in 2015 and said it signalled the start of a more structured approach to machinery operation.

True to his word, we’re back in touch with Phil as he receives his six latest Toro purchases, all grounds machines to take care of the estate gardens, grassed lawn areas, the motor circuit, airfield and horse race course.

The order included three Groundsmaster 3500-D mowers, a Groundsmaster 4300-D, two Groundsmaster 5910 mowers, and two UTVs – the GTX and MDX-D, is the new MyTurf servicing system.

The Pro fleet management program, myTurf, operates by

automatically recording how long the machines have been in operation and how many hours they have accrued when they re-enter the maintenance facility and pass a sensor at the door. This allows the mechanics to calculate preventative maintenance and replacement parts needed, and machine history can be accessed

The perfect solution whatever the task

by simply logging in to the system on a computer.

This latest Toro order is the culmination of a few years work for Phil, assessing how best to manage such a large estate and team.

Reesink Turfcare

Ransomes expertise rolls into Mastiff

The Mastiff by Ransomes is the premier sports surface and pitch heavy duty roller mower producing a distinctive 91cm pristine striped finish.

The Mastiff converts to a highly manoeuvrable ride-on machine with various seating options and is powered by a 9hp petrol engine. It also has a huge capacity for collecting clippings and sets the benchmark for stadium mowers.

Key features include: widest width of cut for higher productivity; better, more consistent cut - day in and day out; optional trailing seat for operator comfort; six and nine blade cylinders provide a choice of cut rates; and optional large self-emptying grass box.

Spider remote controlled mowers have been sold in the UK since 2004 and are the ideal machines for maintaining steep slopes and banks that are difficult to manage with brushcutters or ride-on machines.

Today, Spider mowers are distributed by T H WHITE Machinery Imports Ltd, the specialist division of T H WHITE Group established following the acquisition of the Ferris and Wright mower brands from IPU.

One recent purchaser is Pip Turley, the proprietor of PT Landscapes, based at Minchinhampton in Gloucestershire. For the past 20 years he has been responsible for the groundscare at Howard Tenens premises in the southwest of England.

Howard Tenens Ltd is one of the largest privately managed logistics companies, providing tailored storage solutions with over 3,500,000 square feet

of high quality warehousing across the UK. Explaining the reasons behind the purchase of his Spider 1 mower he said: “Many of the properties in the Howard Tenens portfolio are sunken below the original ground level to mitigate their impact on the surrounding area.

“This results in many grassed banks and slopes that have to be maintained. I’ve always used brushcutters to keep the grass banks presentable, but this was becoming ever-more time consuming as Tenen’s opened more facilities in the southwest, so I needed a solution that would reduce the time and enable me to focus on other areas.

“I put a proposal to Howard Tenens and they contacted T H WHITE, who came down with a selection of machines for me to demo. I’d already discounted tracked vehicles as they have a tendency to tear the turf, so when I saw the Spider, I was literally, blown away.

“One bank at Tenen’s depot in Sharpness used to take between 3-4 days to cut with brushcutters; now it takes less than a day. It’s an amazing piece

of kit and one that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to other contractors.”

Ransomes

TH White

Pellenc Rasion Easy pedestrian mower available from Etesia UK

Following the successful launch of the Pellenc Rasion Basic and Smart models in 2015, the company introduced the Pellenc Rasion Easy.

The Rasion Easy has an IP54 water rating, which as time goes on will be the standard through the rest of the Pellenc tool range, and features a grass density detector - a patented feature exclusive to Pellenc which allows the mower to detect the height and density of the grass and change the engine speed accordingly. This saves power as operators do not have to run the machine under full-load unnecessarily.

A cutting width of 60cm with height of cut between 2575mm, 70 litre grass box capacity and two front swivel

wheels ensure the Rasion Easy is ultra-manoeuvrable. Weighing less than 30kgs and folding handlebars means that transportation between sites is effortless.

All Pellenc batteries and tools come complete with a three year commercial warranty as standardthe first manufacturer to offer this on battery-powered tools. Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Etesia UK

The professional’s choice from Cobra

Cobra is famed for having the largest range of lawnmowers in the UK market.

Alongside these mowers sits an extensive range of handheld models, including an extensive range of brushcutters.

Like all Cobra petrol powered products, the brushcutters have a variety of engines to choose from. Options include Cobra own brand engines, as well as the brand new Cobra S-Series engines which are environmentally friendly, with low emissions that meet the latest EU directive EU-V for emissions. A further option, which are perfectly suited for professional users, are the Kawasaki models, of which there are five to choose from.

Each is powerful, efficient and reliable and meets the demands of hard working gardeners and professional landscapers. These extremely robust machines clear areas of overgrowth without putting the strain onto the user. With a two-stroke air cooled engine, the Kawasaki models provide improved acceleration and power whilst having the ability to function when held in any position.

The BC270KB has a 26.33cc engine with a 0.77kW maximum power and loop handle, alternatively it is available with a bike handle with double shoulder harness as the BC270K.

For increased power there is the BC350K which has a 35cc

Kawasaki engine, giving a maximum power of 1.03kW. Again, it is available with a bike handle (BC350K) or a loop handle (BC35KB). The final model is the incredibly powerful is the BC450K with a 45cc Kawasaki engine and bike handle. It gives a power output of 1.42kW to plough through the toughest of overgrowth.

All Cobra brushcutters with a Kawasaki engine come with a

Achieve outstanding results with AS Motor mulch mowers

AS Motor mulching mowers allow time-saving care for lawns - the grass is cut and remains in place. There are no multiple engine start, no grass collection bag, no disposal of the cuttings.

Achieve outstanding results from effective mowing with AS Motor mulching mowers that cut and chop the grass while pushing it into the ground as fertilizer –with the AS 510, you can even

cut medium height grass in a timesaving manner. The special feather steel blade inside the stable mulching bell splits the grass so thinly, that time consuming grass collection is not necessary. Thanks to its perfectly balanced, stable and light weight design, you can mow away effortlessly.

When mulching, the grass is first cut several times and then whirled like in a fan to the top, only to be pushed

in the same process immediately down to the bottom. The cut grass is so finely shredded that it simply disappears between the stems left

two-year domestic warranty, and one-year professional warranty as standard.

Cobra products are available exclusively from Henton & Chattell, and subsequently are supported by an extensive dealer network which supplies products and servicing through its 1500+ dealers across the UK.

Cobra

The INFINICUT® line of all electric precision mowers was designed to be user-adjustable to match the conditions of any given day. From the dynamic return floating head mechanism to the variable clip speed, height of cut adjustment and moveable bedknife the INFINICUT® provides more functionality than any other pitch mower. Combine that with today’s highly technical approach to pitch construction and unpredictable microclimates, the INFINICUT® ensures a healthy turf while providing an unrivaled quality of cut.

@InfiniCut

standing and then quickly rots and turnsintofertiliser

PSD Groundscare

EGO offer powers and performance to ground care professionals

To meet the needs of ground care professionals in terms of power, performance, convenience and wellbeing, EGO Power+ is launching its first dedicated range of commercial cordless garden tools.

Powered by the patented design of the 56V Arc Lithium battery system, which delivers the power of petrol without the petrol, the range comprises three high-spec tools – a hedge trimmer, a commercial line trimmer, and a blower.

All offer super tough, low maintenance construction to help grounds care professionals work harder all-day every day, even in the most challenging conditions. EGO have spent a lot of time talking to professional users to better understand what is required from them of their tools. The result is a range of tools

designed to perform beyond the expectations of even the most challenging user.

All three new tools are packed with innovation. In an industry first, the brush cutter has a carbon fibre shaft which makes it more lightweight for ease of handling, but, even more importantly, it makes it extremely strong. Where standard aluminium shafts bend or get damaged, this shaft stays strong to meet the day-to-day routine of

handling, transporting and storing. Additionally, EGO will also launch a new backpack battery, which once again, takes cordless performance to a whole new level. With an IP rating of 56 this new battery is suitable for all weather conditions.

There’s no need to stop and place a plastic cover over the top of it like some other manufacturers because its 1500 watt hour capacity will just keep on working.

EGO Power+

Etesia launches SKD ExxDrive

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

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive has been developed with partners FeBroLift GmbH and is a completely new type of external operating concept that allows the user to operate the device reliably and precisely by means of a gesture-controlled operation via an app on an iPad - without having to sit on the mower itself.

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

The biggest advantage of the Etesia SKD ExxDrive is that it can be fitted with a dual wheel kit and be used on steep slopes where mowing work can be carried out with a low risk to the operator, who can stay at a safe distance and avoid risks of being injured, while still ensuring a high productivity in difficult terrain.

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

Etesia

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.

CAMON’s 4-stroke brushcutters prove a hit

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

CAMON brushcutters from Tracmaster are designed to satisfy the needs and working demands of all users.

Features include anti-vibration and adjustable handlebars for perfect weight distribution, market leading engines, safety goggles, bump feed head and grass blade as standard.

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

fantastic Nylsaw Speed heads.

Three different models of 4 stroke brushcutter are available, including the Combi HO25 with brushcutter,

hedgetrimmer, chain pruner and a 75cm Extension for longer reach.

A Little Wonder from Schiller

The Little Wonder Hydro BRC-26 Brushcutter is part of aformidable line-up of machinery solutions from Schiller Grounds Care.

The Little Wonder uses steel linkages and no cables, which are prone to snapping, that enables the machine to handle really heavy brush and the toughest brambles.

Productivity is high with the forward speed of up to 4.2mph/6.7kmh and 1.7mph/2.7kmh in reverse. The all-round ability of the machine, the fact it will cut through long, tough grass and sapling growth up to 2”/5cm thick while also able to leave a good, clean finish on less challenging grass areas. “

STIHL

Tracmaster

Schiller

ECHO is the professional’s choice

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

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

The cutting head on the 420TES has been upgraded too. Now with

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

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

Positioned at the rear of the machine, away from flying dirt

Wipe it out with Wessex

and debris, filtration has been greatly improved, allowing for smooth and efficient engine performance. Access to the filter is tool-free and the cover can be removed and fitted by hand, even when the operator is wearing work gloves.

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

ECHO

The easy way to clear

Rough grass, overgrowth and brush can take hold in any location and conditions.

Whether it’s an unused field, overgrown scrubland or a dense orchard, Billy Goat brushcutters are the machines for the job.

Sturdy and-heavy duty Billy Goat machines are simple to operate and will clear areas with complete ease.

Robust brushcutters from Billy Goat are designed for cutting the toughest of overgrown areas. They plough through dense brush up to 6’ high, as well as grass and weeds as tall as 8”. Even saplings don’t stand a chance.

Gator SpeedLoad cutting system reduces reloading time

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad cutting system was designed to get lawn care professionals and homeowners back to work quicker, increasing efficiency and ease of use.

Oregon’s integrated head and disk line system simplifies the reloading of trimmer line because it requires no winding or spooling, reducing both frustrationandreplacementtime to less than 20 seconds.

Longer-lasting and two times stronger than its competitors, Oregon Gator SpeedLoad’s innovative tongue-and-groove line comes pre-wound in small, self-contained discs for convenient transport, making it a fast, easy-to-use replacement solution.

These powerful brushcutters are unfazed by hidden items lurking in the grass. They make clearing vast areas, meadows and fields a breeze, as well as also being handy for clearing paths and tackling overgrowth that has perhaps got a little out of hand.

There are five models in the range offering a variety of options. All models have a 26” cutting width and a heavy duty

blade spindle that is reinforced on four sides to tackle the toughest of cutting tasks with ease, as well as a rigid deck for extra stability.

There are two self-propelled models with three speeds, both powered by 13hp petrol engines, and weigh in at 166kg. There is the choice of either a Briggs & Stratton or Honda engine.

There are three hydrostatic transmission models available, all powered by 13hp Honda petrol engines.

These have the option of either pull or electric starting and feature a unique pivoting deck to offer increased manoeuvrability.

The top of the range HHEU model also features optional height adjustment from 4.5cm to 9.5cm.

Billy Goat products are exclusively available in the UK through Henton & Chattell dealers nationwide.

Billy Goat

The concept of weedwiping was developed in New Zealand in the 1970’s and it offers a controlled method of targeting weeds.

The Wessex Weedwiper attaches to a standard ball hitch on an ATV, UTV or 4 x 4 and comprises a unique roller carpet mounted on a sturdy mainframe.

There’s a large wheel at each end, one of which drives the roller rotation and the roller runs in the opposite direction to the travel of the Rotowiper to allow thorough coating of the underside of the leaf.

The machine is height adjustable to ensure all weed types and growth stages are catered for.

A reliable pump transfers chemical from the tank to the carpet, coating it evenly and thoroughly to ensure the weed receives the right amount of lethal chemical.

The Wessex Rotowiper is available in a 2.4m width and can be used on any vehicle with a tow hitch.

Mitox packed with pedigree

The Japanese-made Mitox represents a formidable range of commercial brushcutters.

The new Mitox machines, formerly Kawasaki, still boast Kawasaki engines and quality Japanese manufacture, yet at lower prices in 2015 than you would have paid for the equivalent Kawasaki brushcutter in 2014.

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

Rochford

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad cutting system has three models which, combined, fit over 95% of petrol-driven trimmers and brushcutters, and is available at authorised Oregon dealers nationwide.

Oregon

Wessex

The right machine for the job: Kubota’s BX231 sub-compact tractor

Tim Yates, Product and Key Account Manager for Kubota

UK Tractor & Groundcare, explores the key features and technical specifications of the BX231 tractor machine that makes it suitable for contractors and operators looking for a machine that is capable of completing a breadth of tasks.

For many contractors and amenity professionals, the need for a single machine that is capable of completing a multitude of jobs is paramount. This is where the BX231 subcompact tractor comes into play, as a premium specification tractor that reflects the longstanding heritage and quality expected of Kubota machinery, manufactured at our state-of-the-art facility in Atlanta, USA.

Boasting a wide range of specifications and technical features, the BX231 is

manufactured entirely by Kubota in order to create a machine that is not only able to complete all of the necessary tasks professionals face on a day-to-day basis, but to also deliver the highest level of durability and functionality.

The lightweight nature of the BX231 makes it the ideal machine for landscapers, as it can be loaded onto a trailer, making it easy to transport to each job or site, without the requirement for a HGV.

Front loader

One of the key features of Kubota’s BX231 sub-compact tractor is its front loader, which is manufactured to solely fit Kubota’s BX231 model. The matched-fit between the machine and the implement provides professionals with a complete package at the most attractive price. The new BX231 model’s loader hoses are featured inside the boom for greater protection

and better visibility, increasing the safety and ease of operation when using the loader.

The loaders quick attach and detach mechanisms make for easier manoeuvrability, as professionals can remove the loader without the requirement for tools. The loader’s new H-shaped stand supports the loader when it’s not fitted to the machine, whilst also functioning as a hose guard when the loader is in use. To remove the loader you simply release 2 pins and 4 QRC’s, the loader can then be left on a hard surface.

The loader’s specifications make it ideal for materials handling, transporting sand, soil, compost and general waste across site with ease.

Easy-over mower deck

Similar to its front loader, the BX231’s easy-over mower deck has been manufactured on a ‘made to fit’ basis, to again provide the highest level of Kubota quality.

The deck can be attached in just three simple steps by sliding out the 40-degree ramps and releasing the rear spring-loaded wheels, then driving over the deck and engaging the Rear Deck Lock and onetouch universal joint lever. Finally, operators must retract the ramps, raise the deck and they are ready to complete mowing tasks quicker and easier.

The deck can be removed without any tools, providing users with easier transport and operation, eliminating risk of damaging the deck when navigating the site. If operating the vehicle around site with the mower deck attached, it offers a 152.4 mm transport ground clearance to also eliminate any potential damages.

The easy disconnect of the 54” or 60” side discharge decks also provides easy servicing and

to the implement.

The machine is also available with a 48” rear discharge deck with optional mulching kit, offering contractors the opportunity to use machinery that meets the individual needs of each site. For contractors operating longer cut cycles, particularly in the spring when the turf is dewy and growing at a fast rate, the rear discharge deck is the ideal option.

For professionals operating a shorter cut cycle, particularly in the summer when the grass is drier and growing less, the optional mulching kit offers professionals the opportunity to achieve a regularity of cut by mulching approximately once a week.

Mulching presents a wide range of benefits for landscapers conducting weekly cutting of dry grass. This is due to the clippings being cut into fine pieces that easily fall to the soils surface in the cavities between the blades of grass.

The side discharge decks offer the opportunity for a grass

collector to be attached, with 450 litre and 600 litre capacity collectors to choose from. The 600 litre collector empties out at ground level, whilst the 450 litre is a high-lift collector, with a tipping height of around 6ft, ideal for contractors removing clippings from the site.

Power Take Off and Implements

The BX231’s wide reaching capabilities are supported by its ability to be partnered with a complete range of 3-point linkage implements such as rollers and mowers.

The BX231 also supports a wide use of implements through its

independent Power Take Off (PTO) providing power to the implements, independently of all other functions of the tractor. This provides professionals with easier operation as they do not need to operate a clutch pedal.

Comfort and ease of use

For landscape and amenity professionals, a single site can often require many forms of maintenance. This is why the BX231 sub-compact tractor provides the ideal solution, with its made-to-fit implements and mower decks offering the renowned standard of quality, durability and reliability that Kubota is synonymous with.

maintenance of the machine as operators have complete access

New John Deere Gator now at dealers

John Deere’s new HPX 815E

Gator utility vehicle made its public show debut at BTME 2018 back in January

This latest diesel powered Gator shares its new styling with the XUV 855M model, which replaces the 855D.

The HPX 815E is ruggedly designed for a range of transporting and general materials handling duties in any outdoor environment.

Powered by an 18hp 854cc engine working through a twospeed high-low continuously variable transmission, this twoseater vehicle is available with true on-demand four wheel drive

and is capable of travelling at speeds of up to 25mph.

A simple dash-mounted electronic rocker switch controls an auto-locking front differential for extra traction when needed in challenging conditions, or to maintain two-wheel drive for lighter turf operations, for example.

Additional standard features include a 12V DC outlet, allwheel suspension and steering, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, a rear diff lock and an integrated four post ROPS canopy with door nets.

John Deere

Enduraspray has it covered

As part of the Enduramaxx group, Enduraspray manufacture a complete range of ATV and UTV spraying units, Dust Suppression and Plant Watering bowsers.

Supporting a nationwide network of Dealers with fast and efficient service, we ensure no matter where our products are required, construction workers, groundsmen, farmers and amenity

contractors are within easy reach of our quality assured products.

Whilst we offer exceptional delivery services on our standard ranges, our sales and manufacturing teams are here to ensure individual requirements for specialist solutions are catered for and delivered with speed and precision.

Enduraspray

New products from Warn

Warn has introduced a very useful winch line bump-stop, which prevents the winch line hook from retracting too far.

This protects both the winch components and the winch line. The bump-stop is made of rubber and is in two halves,

making installation an easy job. Enquire at your ATV dealer, or contact Arbil 4x4 for closest dealer details.

Arbil

Isuzu Truck launches new Grafter Green 3.5tonne truck range

Leading commercial vehicle manufacturer Isuzu Truck UK has announced the arrival of its new range of 2018 Grafter 3.5tonne rigids, under the umbrella name of ‘Grafter Green’.

With a choice of standard cab colours of either white or flint grey, the new 3.5 tonne Isuzu Grafter Green 4 x 2 chassis cab rigids are available in both single and twin rear wheel configurations, offering improved performance, significant weight savings and a better ride quality.

Perhaps most importantly, there is no need for AdBlue on the new, Euro-6 compliant vehicles.

Both single rear wheel and twin rear wheel Grafter Greens have already been added to the successful Isuzu Truck Driveaway pre-bodied truck programme, with the ready availability of both tipper and dropside models providing industry leading payload carrying capacity.

Announcing details of the new range of Isuzu Grafter Green trucks, Pete Murphy, managing director of Isuzu Truck UK said, “Grafter Green introduces

new proven technology to the UK market, with many changes to the specification that will certainly differentiate the range from its predecessors. As a global manufacturer, Isuzu Motors has listened to UK customer feedback over the years and the changes have now been incorporated throughout the new Grafter Green model range for the UK market.”

The Grafter Green uses a brand-new Isuzu RZ4E 1898cc four-cylinder Euro six diesel engine with Lean NOx Trap technology. Significantly, no AdBlue is required. Improved power and torque is 90kW @3200rpm and 320Nm @ 16002000rpm respectively. This advanced technology enables a reduction in CO2 emissions whilst the new engine is also far more fuel-efficient by the nature of its design and reduced displacement.

Isuzu

Suzuki celebrates sales success

Suzuki GB’s ATV division has just achieved its best year ever in terms of market share. In particular, this is thanks to a 21% increase in sales in the utility sector as the brand continues to go from strength to strength.

With its tried and tested products, Suzuki has carved out an enviable reputation for being the ‘go to’ brand for the supply of ATVs into farming and agriculture, as well as achieving several notable fleet sales deals into the adventure and trekking market.

The Suzuki ATV range features powerful and comfortable utility ATVs suitable for a variety of applications, with the ability to carry and tow heavy loads and help you to rule the land. From the leading KingQuad 750 with a 722cc engine, power steering, independent suspension and a sealed rear brake, to the compact but powerful Ozark 250 with a large towing capacity for its size and a highly efficient, economic engine, the Suzuki range has a

variety of models available to suit every element of farm life.

The range also features Suzuki’s unique T-shaped seat and selectable 2 and 4-wheel drive options on selected models, which make the already fuelefficient ATVs even better.

All Suzuki ATVs come with free EASI rider training and a free Suzuki workwear kit consisting of overalls and a bodywarmer, to keep you warm and dry. They also come with a free CESAR Security System powered by Datatag, giving each ATV a unique ‘fingerprint’ with an identity that cannot be erased. This acts as a powerful theft deterrent and a tool for recovery should the worst happen.

In addition to Suzuki’s quality products, the brand is supported by a strong network of trusted and knowledgeable Dealers throughout the UK.

Polaris 0% finance to keep on running

“A large proportion of our customers have been taking advantage of our 0% finance offer,” says Ben Murray, Polaris’ National Sales Manager, “so we have decided to continue offering interest-free financing on new Polaris Sportsman ATVs, Ranger 4x4 Utility Vehicles, RZRs and Scramblers.”

Originally scheduled to end in March, the 0% finance scheme will now continue running on these 2018 models throughout the year.

Provided in conjunction with Rural Finance, the scheme is available over two years with 2 + 22 monthly payments up to a maximum of 80% of the Recommended Retail Price. It’s available for new Polaris utility ATVs, UTVs, and Sport and Leisure vehicles (excluding Youth).

Polaris also has one of the widest ranges of accessories available

and the 0% finance can include up to £1,000 excluding VAT on genuine Polaris ATV and UTV accessories.

The extended finance offer also runs alongside the arrival of new Polaris ATV and UTV additions to the range at Polaris dealers, with a number of other special offers available. Purchase a new Polaris Diesel for example and it comes with

free roof and rear panels, so there is another saving to be made. Enjoying a reputation for rugged durability, Polaris ATVs and UTVs come with a two year-warranty and CESAR security as standard for peace of mind.

A visit to a Polaris dealer is recommended for full details, any special deals, and to see the extent of the Polaris range and

accessories. The availability of the 0% fi nance through Rural Finance is subject to status; the offers and warranty are subject to terms and conditions.

Available in the UK, excluding the Republic of Ireland. The fi nance offer ends on December 31 2018.

Polaris

Multifunctional vehicles for local authorities and service providers

Internationally successful manufacturer HOLDER presented its vehicle programme of ground care and winter maintenance products for the first time in the UK at SALTEX 2017.

The range of products starts with the small X-series (40 HP), moving up to the middle range C-series (50/65 HP) and then on to the large S-series (100/115/130 HP).

These articulated vehicles, along with their perfectly matched attachments, offer a versatile and all-year-round usage.

In only a few steps, it is possible to switch to winter maintenance, sweeping, mowing or several special applications.

The vehicles are used in municipalities, at airports, for car parks, in industrial companies, and for facility management. They are characterized by their agility, their driving and operating comfort, as well as their reliability and durability.

The Holder products are already available in numerous countries throughout Europe, Asia and America. The market presence especially in the UK and Ireland shall now be further developed.

The latest model of the C-series was presented: the new Holder C 70 meets the new European emission standard Stage 3B and has the award winning Holder PowerDrive inside, which provides 40% more traction and

50% more climbing capacity compared to a common fourwheel drive.

While the presentation of the Holder X series with petrol engine and catalytic convertor is

Holder’s response to the urban particulate pollution problems without a costly exhaust gas after-treatment.

Holder

Suzuki

Lighten the load with Fuelwood

Avesta-Vagnen of Sweden designs and manufactures mini timber trailers and cranes to the highest quality standard, exclusively distributed in the UK by Fuelwood.

They are carefully specified to meet the precise demands of arboricultural contractors and land owners working in amenity woodlands, parkland or gardens.

These light, compact and highly manoeuvrable trailers can be

pulled behind ATVs, utility buggies, compact tractors and smaller vehicles so they can be used in areas where access is restricted. Soft balloon tyres ensureaminimalfootprintonthe ground protecting the woodland floor.

With their own hydraulic auxiliary 4x4 drive system, high and low speed ranges and antiroll brakes, these trailers can power themselves through the toughest terrain whilst safely carrying loads up to 2000kg.

Options include timber load arms, flatbed and tipper backs giving the trailers many uses. The addition of a crane or winch makes loading of logs up to 5m in length and 350kg a simple task. There are many accessories available across the range.

Honda’s Pioneer gets genuine accessories

Following its entry into the UK’s fast-growing side-by-side utility vehicle market with the introduction of the Pioneer 700 earlier this year, Honda (UK) has launched a range of genuine built-for-purpose accessories to make this versatile workhorse even more comfortable, capable and durable.

Already a popular fixture in utility markets including groundskeeping and forestry, the go-anywhere Pioneer is designed to work for extended periods in some of the most demanding conditions, making operator and passenger comfort vital.

In the genuine Honda range, front screen options include

a half-height wind deflector, full glass or two-piece folding polycarbonate windscreen, and canopiesofferingprotectionfrom the elements and overhanging branches.

Cab options start at fabric and hard roofs with optional rear panels, up to a full cab with full heightdoors,enclosedrearpanel, electric wiper and washer, and a heater drawing on heat from the engine’s liquid cooling system. Additional comfort add-ons include fabric extensions for the standard half-doors and the option of full height doors with glass side panels for the front.

Honda

Kubota sets the standard in power and versatility

The launch of a new four-seater utility vehicle, the RTV-X1140, last year saw Kubota successfully expand its popular range of utility vehicles.

The new model, from the marketleader in diesel powered utility vehicles, builds on the popular predecessor (the RTV1140), demonstrating its ongoing commitment to developing exceptional machinery which not only supports professionals in their day-to- day activities, but provides exceptional comfort and safety as standard.

Designed to provide greater power and performance, the RTV-X1140 enables operators to easily transport both cargo and crew with its versatile two

or four passenger configurations. Users can single-handedly transform the 1102” cargo bed to two additional back seats in three simple steps, allowing for the safe transportation of four adults.

Dedicated to delivering a higher standard of performance across all tasks, its four-wheel drive and unrivalled 10.8” ground clearance enables smooth travel over any terrain, whilst its hydraulic bed-lift makes light work of dumping tasks.

The three-cylinder liquid-cooled Kubota diesel engine also offers a robust 24.8 HP, supported by its Variable Hydraulic Transmission for increased power and traction.

Euro 6 C201 compact ticks all the environmental boxes

Johnston Sweepers believes its latest Euro 6 C201 Compact is the best compact it has brought to market yet, ticking all the environmental boxes with lowest ever exhaust emissions, highest capture of harmful dust particles

and lowest noise levels – ideal for landscape sweeping applications, as well as city centre precincts.

Introduced last year to accommodate the latest VM Euro 6 engine, it’s the smallest

in its class too, with only a mere 150mm added to accommodate the new engine, making it shorter than all other Euro 6 Compacts on the market and retaining the Johnston Compact’s renowned manoeuvrability.

The slender proportions of Johnston’s C201 – ideal for park pathways and close-up sweeping - have always given it exceptional manoeuvrable, but Johnston’s patented four wheel steer system has taken this to an entirely new level.

Dust capture is now a major health condsideration for sweeper

operators and controlling it has been the challenge for many local authorities.

Inthedrivetoincreasedustcapture, the Euro C201 is fitted with Johnston’s special pumped water recirculation system which retains the very smallest dust particles withinthebodyofthemachine,and even re-uses the water, exceeding EUnitedstandards.

More good environmental news is that the C201 has now been proved to be one of the quietest sweepers on the market.

JohnstonSweepers

Kärcher launches new Park & City product line

Kärcher’s new battery-powered tools work on a modular concept allowing the batteries to be interchanged between units.

Using more efficient and longerlasting lithium-ion batteries saves both the expense of servicing the motor and the cost of petrol –representing up to 90% lower lifetime costs.

This lower total cost of ownership has environmental and operator wellbeing benefits too, with emission-free, fumefree operation. 50% less noise and 80% fewer vibrations make

for more comfortable operator use - even for prolonged periods -and suitability in urban areas including parks and street cleaning.

With a choice of three power settings, the lightweight LB 850 Bp Leaf Blower is ideal for removing debris, leaves and cuttings. At full power it delivers 148km/h air speed with only 80 db LpA noise output. Likewise, the robust, maintenance-friendly CS 330 Bp Chainsaw is a powerful ally when tackling branches and small trees.

Whether used as a standalone solution, or in partnership with Kärcher municipal sweepers and pressure washers, Kärcher can make a difference to grounds

maintenance or municipal cleaning regimes.

Kärcher

Fuelwood

Kubota

Donky packs in plenty

Lightweight, noiseless, no fumes and big savings on fuel, the environmentally friendly Donky electric wheel barrow from Etesia UK has quickly become a popular choice for those responsible for landscape management.

With a powerful 1700 W engine, electronic advance management and two driving wheels with an agricultural profile, the Donky has an impressive capacity to move in difficult terrain.

Unlike non-electric motorised wheelbarrows, users can enjoy up to two days of work without any harmful pollutants –in turn helping to protect the environment.

Working and moving in complete silence, and not creating any noise problems for the surrounding area, the Donky electric wheelbarrow can move up to 250 kg or 180 L (400L with the boards) in one trip. With a tank integrated in the tray and a 1” valve, it can carry 85 L of

water or liquid and a spray hose can be connected to it.

The Donky is not just comfortable, environmentally friendly and silent, it is also a true tool carrier; with its exclusive MRM tray and accessories, it will help you in a large variety of jobs throughout the year from cleaning, landscaping, snow removal, transportation of liquids and work platforms. It allows the transport of bulky products (boards, cross member, closing fabric and reel), and provides

a working surface at a suitable height. The Donky also features atrayemptyingfunctionwhichis achieved by a central lever, with unlocking and assistance.

This versatile machine can be used in many areas including building and landscaping sites, breeding farms, transport activities, snow clearing, green space maintenance, vegetable farming and plant nurseries.

Etesia UK

New generation Mechrons take a bow

BTME 2018 brings the first opportunity for UK ground and turf care dealers and end users to view the new generation of Kioti Mechron diesel K9 2400.

The homologated K9 2400 replaces the original 2210. Keeping the work horse

characteristics the K9 2400 includes modern styling, a 10% increase of engine horsepower using a Kioti 3 cylinder engine and a 30% increase in braking performance.

The new model incorporates a bed liner and optional cabin half

doors. Stop start characteristics are also improved with changes to the design of the CVT clutch.

Operator comfort has been a major consideration throughout the design process. This is proven with amongst other features; Doublewishboneshockabsorbers for the front suspension to give additionalstrengthandasmoother ride, a tilting steering wheel and high visibility digital dash consul, reducedvibrationandnoise.

Kioti UK will also display four tractors from their wide range of high specifi cation well designed Compact tractors. Each model will be equipped with a set of specialist wheels ideal for the majority of standard and speciality turf care applications.

Kioti UK look forward to seeing you on their stand M1 in the main hall.

TRUXTA setting standard for safety

For landscapers looking for improved on site safety and powerful materials handling Tufftruk has the perfect solution.

The British built award winning Truxta mini dumper is designed with the highest regard for safety; recently achieving the PLANTWORX Innovation Award for Safety – Highly Commended.

It was Truxta’s exceptional safety performance with a full load on a ramp that proved the benefit of a Truxta over conventional powered dumpers.

The powerful Truxta 4x4 hydrostatic travels through tough ground the four-wheel drive

system is well engineered to ensure wheel contact is maintained even on the roughest terrain.

It can get to work in the tightest corners, the Truxta Bendie handles corners with the minimum effort - just steer around, no need to lift or reposition. Alternatively, a Truxta can switch the heavy-duty skip to a flat-bed and use it as a useful materials carrier.

Available in petrol, diesel and electric battery power, it is the electric that is proving very popular Landscapers looking for green technology for noise and emission free environments often select the Truxta battery powered option with full 8-hour smart-charge operation.

Tufftruk

Garia is switched on to the environment

The Danish golf and utility vehicle manufacturer Garia will be supplying PostNord with allelectric utility vehicles over a three-year contract. Garia will continue to supply luxury golf and courtesy cars globally and are seeing a significant growth in production volume, concluding that the market is starting to realize the unique value proposition of the Garia vehicle lineup within golf, community driving and hotel transportation.

Garia is today supplying utility vehicles to parks, public areas, municipalities and on site at companies in Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

Garia

Kioti

Double quick Wiedenmann day at the races

Iestyn working with his father, Steve John, said because of relentless poor weather it was the first occasion they had the machines in tandem.

In January the Cwmbranbased family business added a Wiedenmann Terra Spike XD6 to their existing Wiedenmann Terra Spike GXi8 HD.

Director, Iestyn John said: “We need to cover lots of ground fast. Clients want you in and out so they can get on with their business. Even at speed the Wiedenmanns can be relied upon do a neat and tidy job.”

Ahead of the season launching Easter meeting at Bath Race Course, PVSGM spiked the whole race course easily within a normal working day.

“The Bath track is about 7 hectares. We started in the home straight with the tractors facing separate directions. Tine holders on the legs of XD are slightly further apart than the GXi8 so hole patterns weren’t strictly identical but matched closely. Both were set to 150 mm deep with heave at 10° as the roots are quite shallow and there’s a base of Cotswold stone beneath. We kept to a steady 3 km / hr.

“Last year the same job took us two days. Now with the extra Terra Spike when we see a weather window, clients will get

Contractors delighted with their Arborist 150

River Clyde Homes is an Inverclyde-based housing association that manages 5600 homes and factors 2500 properties for home owners.

In 2017 River Clyde Property Management was created as an ‘in-house’ specialist team to maintain the grounds, landscaping and the local environment.

Grounds Supervisor, Derek Robertson, quickly specified a GreenMech Arborist 150 woodchipper to join his fl eet as it was “versatile enough to cope with the variety of arboricultural work we were going to face”.

“The popular Arborist 150 is a simple to use, road-tow chipper particularly designed for the disposal of waste brash. Amongst other features it has a bottom-bar safety mechanism, no-stress feed system and a steel engine bonnet providing robustness whilst lowering noise emissions.

A generous 970mm x 790mm infeed hopper is coupled with a 150mm x 230mm letterbox-style infeed throat opening enabling heavily forked branches to be fed in easily.

the benefit. We can get the jobs done faster.”

PVSGM have been operating in South Wales and the South West for over 30 years. With several race courses on their books they

alsomaintainandrenovatebowls, tennisrugby,cricketandfootball surfacesaswellashelpingahost of synthetic customers.

Wiedenmann

SALTEX visit seals the deal for South Staffs

South Staffordshire Council is aiming to save £100,000 in the first year of its grounds maintenance operations coming in-house, following many years of it being outsourced.

To carry out its grass cutting work, the Council has recently purchased four new John Deere 1570 outfront mowers equipped with 1.57m (62in) rotary decks from Midlands dealer Farol.

This followed a proposal to Council Members and a successful visit to IOG SALTEX at the NEC in November 2017 to research the purchase options.

TLC Plant moves up a gear with a Volvo EC27D

The road homologated mowers are equipped with special road lighting kits supplied by Howard Marshall Engineering and are backed by a full PowerGard maintenance package to help fix the costs of ownership. The Council also bought two John Deere front-mounted snow blades to extend the use of the machines through the winter.

South Staffordshire Council’s Street Scene team, part of Community Services, is

responsibleforcutting1.1million square metres of grass every two weeks across the district, which equates to 14 cuts a year from March until September/October.

The Council’s Contract Monitoring Officer Andrew Aston, said: “Several of our operators have had experience of using the company’s front rotaries, so while we did look at other makes we decided in the end to go with Deere and Farol.

“This decision was also based on a combination of other factors, not least the PowerGard maintenance package, which we feltwasreallythebestavailable.”

South Staffordshire Council has utilised RouteSmart route optimisation software since 2012, primarily for its waste and recyclingservice,whichledtothe development and mobilisation of an award-winning resource generating major contract and service effi ciencies. This system is now also being used for the Street Scene operations.

John Deere

Established just 12 months ago by two young entrepreneurs, TLC Plant has moved up a gear by adding a new Volvo EC27D compact excavator thanks to the continued demand for more and more work in the Devon locality.

The new 2.7 tonne compact excavator was supplied following a successful demonstration by SMT GB’s utility dealer for the

south-west of England, Plant and Engineering Services.

Joining a smaller 1.2 tonne micro-excavator, the EC27D is powered by a Volvo 1.6 litre, low-emission Stage-III engine coupled to a load sensing hydraulic system for optimum performance and fuel saving.

Volvo

PERSON FOR THE JOB

South Wales contractors

Peter Villars Sportsgrounds Maintenance (PVSGM) have doubled their aerator fleet.

GreenMech

Kubota UK launches flexible finance solutions on the KX042-4 & U36-4

Kubota UK is adding value to the service it provides its customers by introducing flexible finance packages on two of its recently launched and industry leading mini-excavators – the ecofriendly KX042-4 and the powerful zero-tail swing U36-4.

The offer is available from until June 30 2018.

Launched in 2017, Kubota’s KX042-4 is the most environmentally friendly excavator in the four-tonne weight category.

The powerful machine boasts significant eco-friendly credentials thanks to the incorporation of a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) that ensures a clean exhaust and Kubota’s ECO Plus Mode to reduce fuel consumption. The Common Rail System (CRS) electronically controls the fuel injection timing and amount in stages rather than all at once, for optimal combustion. This results in greater efficiency, better fuel economy and less engine noise.

In addition, certain features of the KX042-4, such as the AUX oil flow with proportional flow control, auto idling, auto-shift and dozer float position, provide the machine with the power and

versatility to handle tough jobs with ease.

Kubota U36-4, also launched last year, is a 3.5 tonne machine that combines superior power and outstanding versatility to tackle the most demanding jobs. The zero-tail swing ensures excellent stability and the ability to work in confined spaces, whilst the operation of auxiliary attachments is now simpler with precise oil flow control to the auxiliary circuit. A more powerful arm breakout force, combined with an array of enhancedfunctions,resultsinthe smoothandproductiveoperation.

Adrian Mann, Kubota UK’s product manager for its Construction Equipment Division, said: “These flexible finance solutions have been launched to support owner operators and those within the plant market, giving them the opportunity to own their first Kubota or expand their fleet. At Kubota, we are constantly looking at ways we can raise the bar and enhance the service we provide. This new initiative is another example of our commitment to driving the construction sector forward.”

KJ Stoneman joins TYM tractor dealer network

TYM Tractors has welcomed KJ Stoneman & Co Ltd in Devon to its dealer network, and in doing so continues its healthy network expansion of 2017 into 2018.

The appointment extends TYM’s coverage in mid and north Devon and provides the family-run agricultural dealer’s customer base of landscape and amenity customers, such as private estates, small holdings and farms, with a comprehensive compact tractor range.

Commenting on the latest dealer to join the TYM network, Scott Turner, southern regional sales manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “KJ Stoneman was looking for a tractor range suitable for its customers’ needs and TYM fit the criteria.

“Not only does the partnership see our plans realised in continuing to grow the dealer network, but it also fulfils KJ Stoneham’s plan to offer the choice of a reliable tractor to its customers.”

Reesink Turfcare introduced the TYM brand to the UK almost seven years ago and it’s been very well received by the market in the time since.

Scott says: “Brand development has been progressive and the dealer network across the country is increasing as TYM is recognised for the quality, reliability and versatility it offers.”

Reesink Turfcare

Preparations for GaLaBau 2018 are well under way

GaLaBau, International Leading Trade Fair for Urban Green and Open Spaces, will open its doors in the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from September 12-15 2018.

Around 1,400 international exhibitors will showcase the complete range of products and services related to planning, construction and maintenance of gardens, parks and green spaces.

Highlights include the new format “Conversations with Motorists” and the “Garden of Dreams Area”, where, inter alia, exclusive green space designs will be exhibited.

Visitors will find everything related to playgrounds in hall 1; offerings related to tree care and tree climbing will

be exhibited in the Tree Care LIVE area in hall 3A.

In the outdoor presentation area, exhibitors will demonstrate maintenance and soil tillage equipment on real grass and soil. 65,000 visitors are expected. Honorary sponsor is the German Association for Gardening, Landscaping and Sports Field Construction (BGL).

GaLaBau

Kioti tractors now sold with four-year warranty cover

As an exciting and progressive development Kioti UK Ltd have announced that all Kioti tractors supplied by Kioti Uk and retailed since the 1st of January 2018 now have a manufacturer’s fouryear warranty cover.

The first two years cover the whole tractor for parts and labour. Years three and four relate to the engine and Transmission only. Once again the cover includes

parts and labour. Terms and conditions including regularly dealer servicing obviously apply.

The Kioti Tractor range starts at the sub compact CS2610 and currently finishes at the 113 HP PX 1153. All models are supplied to a comprehensive basic specification with the focus on operator comfort.

Kioti

www.upsonmowers.co.uk www.skarper.at Tel: 01621 892907

Kubota

Easy does it with John Deere’s new compact tractor

John Deere’s new 3038E compact tractor is an economical and versatile machine suitable for a wide variety of customers, including landscape contractors, groundscare maintenance service providers, sports turf managers, rural property owners and equestrian operations.

The 3038E is equipped with a powerful, emissions-compliant Stage IV diesel engine developing 37.3hp. A hydrostatic transmission with Twin Touch foot pedals provides the operator with simple, comfortable controls to select exactly the right speed for the job at hand.

Combined with power assisted steering, the Twin Touch pedals are intuitive and easy to use and enable the operator to maximise productivity. The tractor’s independent pto can be engaged on the go, eliminating the need to stop and use the clutch. The 3038E also features an easy-lift bonnet that provides wide-open access to the engine bay for maintenance.

A new 300E front loader has been designed to complement the 3038E and features a curved boom and durable components. Together with the tractor’s tight turning circle, this offers a highly manoeuvrable combination for materials handling, whether working indoors or outdoors. Four-wheel drive is available as standard for more demanding applications and difficult ground conditions.

The 3038E compact tractor also offers telescoping draft links as a factory or field installed option. This makes attaching and removing

rear implements very easy and increases overall performance in the field. This option is compatible with a wide range of implements, including mowers, rear blades and posthole diggers.

“This new tractor is easy to operate, easy to maintain, easy to own and easy to buy,” says Carlos Aragones, John Deere’s European turf segment manager. “No matter what the task, the 3038E compact tractor delivers John Deere quality and reliability at a budget-friendly price.”

John Deere

Sherriff Amenity announced as UK distributor of Turf Improver

Sherriff Amenity is delighted to announce that it is now the exclusive UK distributor of Carbon Gold’s Enriched Biochar Turf Improver. Carbon Gold’s aim is to increase soil fertility and improve turf health through the use of biochar-based products and projects. Its blends are approved by the Soil Association for organic growing and are certified by the FSC.

This important alliance significantly widens Carbon Gold’s market reach and improves the availability of enriched biochar to the UK sports turf industry.

Biochar is a highly porous, high carbon form of charcoal used to improve soil nutrition, growing conditions and turf health. It is made from untreated waste woody biomass that has been charred at a low temperature with a restricted supply of oxygen, a process called pyrolysis.

their water holding capacity and improving aeration, lessening the risk of drought and waterlogging. It also improves the cation exchange capacity of the soil, influencing its ability to hold onto essential nutrients.

Thanks to its microscopic honeycomb-like structure, biochar provides the perfect habitat for beneficial soil microorganisms - such as mycorrhizal fungi and actinomycetes bacteria - to

fl ourish, encouraging increased root growth and plant vitality.

Carbon Gold’s Turf Improver enriches biochar with optimum levels of benefi cial fungi, bacteria andtracemineralsforoptimumsoil andswardhealth.Whereprevention rather than cure is key, adding enriched biochar to soil provides the foundation on which to build resilient,attractive,playableturf,as recentsportsturftrialshaveshown.

Sherrif Amenity