Landscape & Amenity Product Update November 2016

Landscape Amenity

Play & Activity Today

Parks are vital hubs for physical activity and deserve protection

Parks provide a public service as hubs for physical activity for people of all ages, and should be funded by the public purse, the Association of Play industries

(API) has told government. In its submission to the Communities and Local Government Committee Parks Inquiry, the API raises its

Amenity Forum launches Get Moving campaign

Effective weed, pest and disease control impacts upon every UK citizen in terms of health, safety and their environment; as a collective, this is a matter that we all agree.

The Amenity Forum has, therefore, launched the Get Moving campaign at their annual conference. John Moverley, Independent Chairman of the Amenity Forum explained: “Get Moving is about The Amenity

Forum supporting all the different sectors. It will demonstrate the various amenity areas, and how these impact on everyone in terms of our streets and pavements, transport networks, parks and play areas, sports surfaces and so on.

“We are looking to embrace the world of digital marketing, to educate the public, starting with Why Amenity Matters”

Amenity Forum Enquiry 2

mounting concerns about the link between local authority budget cuts and dwindling opportunities for children to play and be physically active.

API chair Mark Hardy says: “Children’s increasingly sedentary lifestyles call for policy action, and parks have a pivotal role to play.

“Play delivers wide-ranging developmental benefits, and evidence shows that children are more physically active if they have access to high quality outdoor play facilities. Investment in public play facilities and in the parks that host them should be a government priority, particularly for deprived communities, where need is greatest and obesity rates most prevalent.”

Fields in Trust has also submitted evidence. Its key recommendations include:

That government make available an open data map of all UK green space updated and

New wall-top seating range from Furnitubes

The latest innovation from Furnitubes’ designers is the new wall-top range of seating products.

The range helps convert standard uncomfortable walls into usable seating with the addition of a timber-topped seating platform.

Compared with independent seats and benches that require a suitable base for bolting down or root fixing, the addition of a wall-top seating platform can

prove a more cost effective and visually tidy alternative.

Furnitubes offers four ranges of wall-top seating products, each with their own individual features catering for a range of budgets. Products are available with optional extras including backrests, armrests and antiskate devices.

Furnitubes Enquiry 3

maintained so all stakeholders can assess the distribution of public recreation space and monitor future changes.

• Fields in Trust recommend that the Inquiry should support statutory provision of outdoor green spaces with a sufficient area for play, sport and recreation maintained to an agreed standard and available to all communities

• Whilst we support the government’s cross-departmental Strategy for an Active Nation the crucial role of parks and open spaces must be prioritised if the aims are to be met we call for a re-valuing of our public green spaces to ensure funding for parks is commensurate with their positive impact on communities.

The Parks Alliance said it was significant progress that the

Committee is exploring the state of parks and open spaces and their current challenges, as well as what needs to occur to ensure they remain viable and vibrant.

Despite a hugely challenging environment, it hopes the Committee and Ministers will share an ambition to enable parks, open spaces and the people who use them to thrive.

Mark Camley, chair of the Parks Alliance said: “We need to act now to have our voices heard.

“The case for Parks is clear to all of us that love and support them, and the threats they face are equally clear. The opportunity to make the case will not be greater than it is now. I urge all Park users to make the case for their local Park.”

It’s showtime again. And as 2016 draws to a close there are big plans in place for 2017.

The last 12 months has been eventful in lots of different ways and hopefully SALTEX 2016 will serve as a useful barometer of the current mood of all those working within the industry.

Both visitors and exhibitors at NEC Birmingham will provide a useful snapshot of the challenges we continue to face, the new innovations that are helping to continually push our world-leading industry forward and what the future holds in store.

It is undoubtedly a time of new beginnings. We have a new Prime Minister leading a new government with new priorities and issues to tackle. We have the countdown to Brexit, however long that might be, and the brave new world of life outside of the European Union to negotiate. Above all, we have the pressing need to keep pushing our industry onto the global stage. It might sometimes feel like this industry is under-appreciated on our doorstep, but the rest of the world rightly regards the UK as setting a very high benchmark.

SALTEX 2016 will be an important opportunity to showcase this fact to the UK’s decision-makers. Our industry deserves recognition and support from the highest level for the positive impact it has on the economy and our reputation abroad.

This year’s event is also an important time for TSP Media and Landscape & Amenity Product Update. As you will see on page 5, TSP Media is making a significant investment in LAPU and its website – those visiting SALTEX 2016 will get a sneak preview by coming along to our stand A092.

Our investment is further proof of the importance and vitality of this diverse and successful industry. We will be providing more information on our plans in the coming weeks, but 2017 promises to be a big year for this industry and Landscape & Amenity Product Update.

Groves Editor

Paul

Council top of the hill with Timberplay playground

Situated on the edge of Loughborough, Beacon Hill Country Park is the perfect place to take in panoramic views of the surrounding Leicestershire countryside.

The park is maintained by Leicestershire County Council and is very popular with dog walkers, ramblers, cyclists, runners and horse riders. The addition of a well thought out play space from Timberplay has been a key factor in widening the appeal of the country park.

Beacon Hill is the second highest point in Leicestershire, so the play development set to exploit this. The choice of equipment also offers improved elevation, affording magnificent views across open countryside. A triangular platform combination has been coupled with wobbly bridges, climbing nets and rope crossings, so children can clamber across their own hill top whist parents rest and admire the view from the adjacent seating area.

A Cradle Nest swing, Jumping Discs, Double See Saw and

Dwarf Hill complement this focal product combination to present a wide range of play experiences.

The equipment is nestled within a Birch copse, providing shade from the sun and protection from the wind. As well as Timberplay play equipment, the Beacon Hill site also has bespoke wooden carvings created by local artist Peter Leadbeater who serves as the park’s artist in residence. A number of characterful figures are displayed around the park, adding interest as families make their way across the expansive site.

A spokesman for Leicestershire County Council said: “The setting is so important to Beacon Hill country park as people who come to the park want to see the many different vistas and terrains it presents. It is this wildness that makes it so popular for many activities, from bird watching and rambling to orienteering and rock climbing.

“We were focused on ensuring that any play addition was not to the detriment of this rich country

environment – so naturalistic equipment that respected the setting was of upmost importance to us. We think the final play areas achieve our objectives perfectly, the equipment, its positioning and the wider landscaping fits exceptionally well within the rural country park.

“We are already enjoying increased numbers from families, with many visiting for the day at the weekend with picnics. This will increase further throughout the summer holidays and we are currently looking at how we can further enhance the visitor experience.”

Back in 2013, a play area was created close to the lower car park to ensure that little legs did not have too far to go. This play area has lots of equipment selected specifically for toddlers and younger children, with a hut combination, rocker and small see saw.

Timberplay Enquiry 7

Urban flowers reduce maintenance carbon footprint

The visual and financial success of a Rigby Taylor Euroflor urban meadow flower planting scheme at a public park in the West Midlands is spurring the local council to consider the further widespread use of the flowers for other open spaces and highway verges in the borough.

In a trial instigated by Amey’s regional groundscare contracts manager, Tim McGibbon, in conjunction with Rigby Taylor’s area sales representative, Andrea Backhaus, the planting of the Euroflor Sarah Bouquet urban meadow flower seed mixture not only created a colourful, months-long display of wildflowers that has attracted many complimentary comments by visitors to the park, but the scheme has also generated significant reductions in the carbon footprint of the park’s maintenance regime.

Tim McGibbon explains: “By trialling the urban flower mix in an area that is traditionally

grass and cut by Amey 18 times a year, we’ve created a visually impressive area that has transformed a usually dull grassland. Not only has it attracted positive comments but it has reduced the cutting frequency down to just once every 12 months.

“With Amey being responsible for around 60 million square feet of open space, grassed areas and highway verges for Solihull Council, any increase in our Euroflor planting schemes with help brighten up the parklands even more. And, as a welcome by-product, also generate significant savings on cutting regimes for the authority in the future.”

He adds: “This change to open space management practice makes sound economic sense but also makes Solihull’s parks a pleasanter place to visit.”

Now, following the success of the urban flower mixture,

Euroflor will be added to Tim McGibbon’s annual shopping list – and, after hearing about the project, other Amey groundscare divisions look set to follow suit.

The use of Rigby Taylor’s Euroflor urban meadow flower seed mixture has not only created a colourful, months-long display of wildflowers in the park, but the planting scheme has also generated significant reductions in the carbon footprint of the park’s maintenance regime

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 9

BALI to launch new careers initiative

The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) is launching its new education and skills initiative, GoLandscape.

GoLandscape aims to combat the ever increasing skills shortage prevalent within the landscaping industry in the UK by linking students from schools and colleges directly with BALI Registered Contractors, Designers, Affiliates and Training Provider members that have all identified specific vacancies that require specialist skills and relevant qualifications.

GoLandscape will provide real guidance through a series of

online and offline resources that directly links students with employers, helping to develop real life careers that provide rewarding opportunities for the

individuals involved and benefits the landscape industry as a whole by closing the skills gap.

BALI Enquiry 6

Public picks the UK’s ten favourite parks

After a month of voting, the nation has had its say and picked the top ten parks in the UK.

In total, more than 30,000 people voted and this year’s ten bestloved parks are dotted across the country from London to South Lanarkshire, Port Talbot to Rotherham. The parks vary in size and scale from Warley Woods in the West Midlands,

which is run by a charitable community trust, to Margam Park, an 850-acre country park estate in Port Talbot, and Clifton Park in the heart of Rotherham, which boasts rides and games, as well as a museum.

The Green Flag Award, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy in partnership with Keep Wales

Tidy, Keep Scotland Beautiful and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, is the international mark of quality green space and the People’s Choice poll reflects just how much communities up and down the country value their parks and green spaces.

Green Flags Award Enquiry 8

Husqvarna unveils global report on urban parks

Husqvarna, a world leader in outdoor power products, has unveiled a global survey on urban parks and green spaces in 2030.

The survey results from landscaping architecture students in 15 countries points to the growth of green spaces in urban areas in size and importance, maintained with the support of sensors, robotics, drones and citizens.

To explore the report findings, Husqvarna is setting up a robotic pilot to calculate sustainability and productivity gains, and help in the quest to collect data for sustainability research. Given urbanization, sustainability and the rapid development of technology, what will the future urban park look like in 2030? This was what Husqvarna asked 533 landscaping architect students in 15 countries,

representing 60 universities, in order to understand how the decision makers in 2030 view the role and the park, allowing Husqvarna to develop solutions and products that meet future needs for green space management.

“The need for green spaces is growing, and it is inspiring to think about how green spaces in cities can come to be maintained in 2030,” says Pavel Hajman, President of the Husqvarna Division.

As the report indicates, automation will play a bigger role in the future of taking care of

parks. For this reason beginning in 2017, Husqvarna and the city of Stockholm will run a pilot beginning in 2017 that looks into how robotic mowers can improve sustainability and productivity in urban green spaces.

The robotic mowers will be equipped with sensors to collect data on air quality, light, sound and rain water. The data will be collected by the nonprofit organization Quantified Planet to support research for sustainability.

Husqvarna

Enquiry10

Landscape Institute awards 2016 shortlist announced

The Landscape Institute has announced the shortlist for its annual awards celebrating the best work of the landscape professions.

There are a wide range of projects submitted this year, from a Bath Pattern Book providing a design guide for the public realm to a landscape led masterplan for the Aylesbury Estate in London which incorporated existing trees into the plan for new streets and open spaces.

Improving public health through landscape was another key theme with the redevelopment of Royal

Stoke Hospital which brought an inside-outside experience to design by bringing nature indoors thereby helping to reduce the stress of both patients and staff.

Green infrastructure based approaches to climate change and water management were also key to projects such as Life + which saw the retrofitting of climate change adaptation measures to three estates in west London. Improving biodiversity with another theme for a Green Infrastructure Action Plan for Pollinators which promotes

environments that encourage bees and other pollinators in south-east Wales.

Merrick Denton-Thompson, President of the Landscape Institute, said: “Landscape is the primary consideration in delivering places where people want to be; want to work; want to innovate. It demands the vision of a designer, underpinned by scientific and technical rigour.

“This year’s shortlist highlights more now than ever, how landscape architects create great places by working with the built

Etesia celebrates at Partners in Excellence awards

Etesia UK’s 2016 Partners in Excellence awards proved to be one to remember, as the company celebrated its 25th anniversary in the UK as well as recognizing the monumental efforts of its widespread dealer network.

Over the past 25 years, Etesia - and more recently Pellenc, have had immense success in establishing themselves as leading brands in the world of green space management.

Advanced technical innovation and a commitment to manufacturing high-performance machines have enabled the company to become a ‘standardsetter’ within the industry.

As the brand’s reputation grew rapidly so too did Etesia’s UK network of dealers and now a multitude of their market leading products cover every inch of the UK. In appreciation and to recognize the dedication of these dealers, the company hosts its ‘Partners in Excellence’ awards every two years.

The 2016 awards saw over 60 dealers make the trip to the Heart

of England Conference & Events Centre in Warwickshire, where they were invited to participate in a day of fun-filled activities before receiving a glimpse of a range of new innovative machines which are set to be launched at this year’s SALTEX exhibition.

Special recognition awards were handed to two unique individuals who have been part of Etesia’s journey in the UK from the very start. Robin Taylor used to travel thousands of miles in his Ford Transit van with just the two machines as he successfully began to establish the Etesia dealer network in the South of England. Likewise, Colin Plumb was able to build up a successful network of dealers – particularly in the North of England and Scotland.

The complete list of winners were:

• Overall Partner in Excellence award winner: RT Machinery

• Pellenc Partner in Excellence award winner: Balmers Garden Machinery Japan sales incentive winners: RT Machinery, Bartram Mowers, Ron Smith and Co

• Category one Partner in Excellence award winner: Balmers Garden Machinery

• Category two Partner in Excellence award winner: Cyril Johnston

• Category three Partner in Excellence award winner: Midland Grounds Machinery

• Special recognition awards: Robin Taylor and Colin Plumb

Etesia UK Enquiry 14

and natural environment to create innovative spaces, wildlife habitats and sustainable infrastructure.’

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on November 24 2016, hosted by Simon Reeve, adventurer, TV presenter and bestselling author at The Brewery, 52 Chiswell Street, London.

The shortlisted projects will be be exhibited at The Building Centre, Store Street, London from now until Christmas 2016.

Ground Control presented with Queen’s Award for Enterprise

Ground Control has been presented with its Queen’s Award for Innovation at a special ceremony at the company’s offices in Billericay, Essex.

The award, achieved in the year of her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday, specifically recognises the significant contribution Ground Control’s application of technology has had on servicing its customers, including live reporting systems that enable the company to respond rapidly to evolving demands.

The company has become an exemplar of innovation in its industry sector and a pioneer of technology across its divisions, delivering a range of services including grounds maintenance, winter maintenance, arboriculture including rail, utilities and amenity services, vegetation management, landscape construction and design, ecology and biodiversity, fencing, roofing, invasive weed management, pest control, specialist external cleaning services and commercial window cleaning.

“Across 45,000 sites throughout the UK, our upwards of 3,000 people working hard to deliver to our customers, are justifiably proud of their personal contribution to this fantastic achievement. This is for each and every one of our staff to say thank you for their commitment and hard work.”

Ground Control Enquiry 13

Trilo strengthens sales team

Vanmac bv, manufacturer of the Trilo range of blowers, vacuum collectors and verticutters, has announced the appointment of Jeremy Vincent (pictured) as UK Factory Support Manager.

The ever-growing nationwide dealer network has necessitated the need to split the country in two in order to better tailor the sales and service of Trilo machines to the UK market – the north taken care of by Jon Proffitt and now the south by Jeremy.

Jeremy is an established name within the industry and is well versed with the Trilo range of products. He has a wealth of knowledge, experience and industry connections within the UK market having been in the groundcare machinery and amenity sectors since leaving school. Jon and Jeremy are no strangers to each other having worked in the same company before.

Vanmac Enquiry 15

Landscape Institute Enquiry 12 Photo: Jason Gairn

Marcus Watson, Ground Control’s managing director, said:

January 2017 to signal major new developments for TSP Media Limited

TSP Media has announced major expansion plans for its industry-leading title Landscape & Amenity Product Update in 2017.

A new, quarterly Professional Groundscare supplement will be added to the magazine, providing in-depth technical articles, product innovation and industry news for this vibrant sector.

The exciting new supplement will sit alongside the established Play & Activity quarterly supplement, as well as the regular sector and machinery spotlights provided by respected writer Jane Carley.

The new-look format will be complemented by a fresh, creative updated look for the magazine itself, with a redesigned front cover and inside pages. David Stiles, Publishing

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

Alongside the new designs for the magazine, TSP Media has also invested in a dynamic new website that will incorporate Landscape & Amenity Product Update, Play & Activity, the new Professional Groundscare supplement and pH Professional Horticulture + Landscape Design, the new quarterly magazine edited by Laurence Gale.

The web platform has been specifically designed to create a comprehensive online resource for the industry.

Perennial CEO to retire in Spring 2017

Richard Capewell, the chief executive of Perennial, the charity for all UK horticulturists, has announced his plan to retire in Spring 2017.

The charity is currently seeking his replacement. Richard joined Perennial as CEO in 1999 and in his time at the charity he has been responsible for its evolution from a very traditional organisation reflecting its Victorian origins as a benevolent fund for retired gardeners, to a fully inclusive charity for all horticulturists.

He has broadened, expanded and refocused its work, to include specialist casework and debt advice services, alongside its long-established benevolent fund activities of financial help and retirement housing.

In his time at the helm, Perennial has expanded its work with younger people through the

Kellie Wake, Head of the merger with the Royal Fund for Gardeners’ Children and the establishment of the Lironi Training Fund.

Richard will continue in his role as Trustee of Lantra (the landbased and environmental sector awards body) and hopes to continue to voluntarily contribute to the world of horticulture.

Meanwhile, a group of hardy horticulturists have completed an epic six-day cycle from the foot of Snowdon in North Wales to Lands End in Cornwall raising over £30,000 to date for Perennial.

The two teams of riders, some on road bikes and some on mountain bikes, climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest (riding 759km) and Mount Kilimanjaro (riding 530km) respectively over the course of the week.

Perennial Enquiry 19

O’Brien Sports make a splash

Sports pitch construction specialist, O’Brien Sports, has lent its support to British Blind Sport by sponsoring its 2017 youth swimming gala.

British Blind Sport is a charity based in Leamington that helps visually impaired, blind and partially sighted people participate in sport.

Mick O’Brien, director of O’Brien Sports commented:

“British Blind Sport is an important organisation, making a really big difference to blind and partially sighted people.

“Sports participation can help children: build their confidence, develop new friendships, practise their social skills, but most importantly, provide them with an opportunity to have fun taking part in an activity they are good at.”

Landscape Division, said: “This brand new, dynamic design represents the next stage in the development of both Landscape & Amenity Product Update and pH Professional Horticulture + Landscape Design as one of the industry’s leading platforms for news and product information.

“Providing a dedicated hub for product-specific information, including brochures, videos, it is also a daily news channel for all those interested in keeping up-to-date with the main issues affecting our industry.”

The user-friendly format means the site can now be accessed in whatever format you require, with access to a wealth of material just a click away. Landscape & Amenity Product Update is also supported by a proactive approach to social

DanCodling(topleft),PaulGroves(topright),KellieWake(seatedleft)andRebeccaTaylor(seatedright)

media, via Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Google+, providing another key platform for the latest industry news.

Established in 1992, TSP Media has developed into

a professional and dynamic multi-media publisher of industry-leading print, digital and online platforms.

As well as the landscape and horticultural titles, TSP

Media publishes respected and successful magazines such as Specification Magazine, Housing Specification, Specification Product Update and Public Sector Building Specification.

Running your own Lawn Master outlet can be extremely profitable. In fact, you will earn more money working for yourself than the vast majority of salaried roles in the turf industry can offer. That’s why Course Managers, consultants and Premier League groundstaff have all joined us as franchisees.

Lawn Master operates on excellent profit margins. After all, your expertise is exceptional. Where else can a customer find a qualified greenkeeper to maintain their lawn all year round, with accurate paperwork and a professional approach?

Not all customers want the cheapest. We treat the lawns of the rich and famous, as well as homeowners who want to enjoy their lawn but simply don't have the time to spend working in the garden.

Building a business takes commitment, but self-employment offers a better work/life balance than many jobs in the turf care sector. Most of our franchisees joined us to work less hours, as well as to earn more money.

Funding – Talk to us. We can show you how others have secured a franchise that they thought was impossible to afford.

Accounts and Tax – We provide all the help you will need to run your own business.

Software – Our bespoke software package makes the operation of your business professional and efficient. It is included in the cost of your franchise and full training is provided.

Marketing – Launch marketing is also provided within your franchise package. Territories are large enough to be able to grow a large business with high turnover.

Support – With a supportive and experienced network of other people just like you, help and guidance is always at hand.

Business benefits – Remember, you’re building your own asset.

You will never earn more money than when you’re working for yourself. Homeowners have limited time and need their lawns tending to. Our customers stick with us, offering repeat business year-after-year.

Do the job you love... ...earn the money you deserve

Do you enjoy groundsmanship, but wish that you could have a better work/life balance without compromising your salary?

O’Brien Sports Enquiry 20

Wiedenmann UK hosts dealer staff training event

Wiedenmann UK has taken 54 dealer representatives on a training mission to Grassau in southern Germany to see new machines and developments in their fleet.

Taking centre stage were the company’s latest additions. The Terra Spike SL is for fine turf and tractors from 20 HP. Weighing just 470 kg, it tines down to 210 mm and is twice the match for some shallow aerators.

Also newly arrived is the Terra Float Air, a pneumatic overseeding machine which combines a rotary spiker and an overseeding unit. Seed rates are controlled via a precise metering system. Seed is blown to the surface via eight tubes

and a distribution chute. Dealer staff from across Britain and Ireland were welcomed by Wiedenmann’s elite team of engineers and developers before receiving detailed briefings on all the machines.

Wrekin’s fresh Highway range is the perfect fusion

The works of famous minimalist artists of the mid-twentieth century would not be out of place at the launch of Wrekin’s new Highway range.

of striking examples of highway ironwork and post them online. There is a small but serious group of followers determined to make manholes and gully grates seen as art.

Once they’re in the ground, many of the benefits are unseen, so we’re shining a spotlight on the ingenious features that make Highway products so useful.

Wiedenmann

UK Enquiry 21

The home of intelligent products for civil engineering, Wrekin, is inviting visitors to view manhole covers and gully grates as not purely functional necessities of the road but as a way to enhance the urban environment through a unique combination of highperforming functionality, style and elegance.

This is not a new idea. Carl Andre’s Equivalent V111, famously known as ‘The Bricks’, caused huge public debate when it was exhibited at the Tate in 1976. Today, Japanese street artists create drain art and keen ‘gridders’, such as Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, take photographs

Now, Wrekin is launching its new Highway range at the Wrekin Pavilion ‘Seeing is Believing’ exhibition, which will challenge traditional views of manhole covers and gully grates. Specifiers, contractors, local authorities and ironwork installers are all welcome to come and see all the benefits of Highway, which offers a single range to meet every requirement in highway ironwork, including manhole covers, gully grates and ancillaries.

Sales Director Simon Turner explains: “A huge amount of engineering precision and design expertise goes into our products.

“Our experts will be on hand to give visitors a truly comprehensive overview of how Wrekin can help local authorities, contractors and other highway industry professionals to meet the challenges of reliable performance and effective maintenance.

“All Highway products are super-easy to stock, specify, install and maintain. They exceed compliance with relevant standards, including BS EN 124 and HA104/09. And they also look great – they’re strong, durable and elegant. Truly, seeing is believing when it comes to Highway.”

As well as the Wrekin Pavilion, the company will be based at three of the six specialised outdoor zones – Maintenance Matters, Making Our Mark and A Smarter Network. At each location, Wrekin will be providing live demonstrations of its innovative products, including Unite manhole covers, Uni-Pak bedding mortar, the latest in chamber designs and a variety of geosynthetics for highway embankments.

Wrekin Products Enquiry 22

Winner of Stewart Garden Schools Programme revealed

Cutcombe Church of England First School has won the Stewart Garden Schools Programme 2016.

The school, in Minehead, Somerset, will receive £1,000 to spend at its local garden centre.

Created and run by Stewart Garden, the programme challenges school pupils aged 6-11 to get creative with Stewart Garden products.

And the students at Cutcombe Church of England First School did just that. Using Stewart Garden’s Corinthian Trough, they sowed and grew a colourful display of vegetables.

The students conducted science experiments and explored the process of photosynthesis to find out how to grow great plants.

The produce will be on display at this year’s Flower and Produce Show at Cutcombe Fete and auctioned off after the event to raise money for local charities.

The judges were captivated by the students’ enthusiasm for gardening and their community spirit.

Congratulating the winner, Andy Burns, managing director at Stewart Garden said: “We congratulate Cutcombe Church of England First School on this project. It’s great to see how young people use our products and witness their passion for gardening and growing vegetables. The judges were impressed that Cutcombe Church of England First School integrated the programme into its curriculum and created a project that will help good causes locally.”

Emma Howe, office manager at Cutcombe Church of England First School, said: “Our students have so much passion for gardening and the whole school

is ecstatic to have won this year’s Stewart Garden Schools Programme. The students are so excited and are already coming up with lots of ideas on how to spend the vouchers.”

Ideal for outdoor spaces, including balconies, Stewart Garden’s classically inspired Corinthian planter is perfect for growing patio vegetables, herbs and heathers. Made from top quality plastic and available in three colours – terracotta, green and black –it’s lightweight yet will endure through all the seasons.

The winning students also made great use of Stewart Garden’s 52 cm Essentials Unheated Propagator for sewing broad beans, French beans, sweetcorn and peas. The propagator’s lightweight crystal clear cover has adjustable ventilation, making it easy to control the airflow to young plants.

Also in the kit received by every school taking part in the programme were:

• premium seed tray

• plastic plant pots

• 5 litre watering cans

Five runners up in the Stewart Garden Schools Programme 2016 will each receive £100 to spend at their local garden centre. These are:

• Much Woolton Catholic Primary School, Watergate Lane, Liverpool

• Crondall Primary School Crondall Primary School, Croft Lane, Hampshire

• Sandal Castle Primary School, Barnsley Road, West Yorkshire

• Bernard Gilpin Primary School, Hall Lane, Sunderland

• Loddon Primary School, Silverdale Rd, Reading

Innovative training scheme backed by Makita

Makita is providing support for an innovative apprenticeship scheme that will provide a comprehensive grounding in rural maintenance techniques to six young people in the Lake District.

Organised by the Rusland Valley and Fells Landscape Partnership, and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the three year apprenticeship is designed to develop vital practical skills and the knowledge required for a career in the rural sector.

With additional support from Makita UK, Electricity North West and local hardware distributor, Thomas Graham, the six new apprentices will be working throughout the south Lakeland landscape assisting with woodland restoration, wildlife conservation and heritage projects. The team are fully equipped with Makita machines including brushcutters, chainsaws, safety equipment and accessories.

Makita UK Enquiry 25

New Glyphosate regulations and what they mean to the UK

A lot has happened over the last few months with regards to the use of weed killers containing glyphosate, so Kersten has put together a simple guide to the changes.

Following a review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) the European Union’s member states decided to extend the licence on glyphosate, but only for 18 months rather than the normal 15 years.

The EU has also given a series of recommendations in parallel with the extension, which include:

• ban a co-formulant called POE-tallowamine from glyphosate based products;

• minimise the use of the substance in public parks, public playgrounds and gardens;

• and minimise the pre-harvest use of glyphosate.

To date it is unclear if the UK government is prepared to accept these recommendations, but some councils in the UK are

already looking to stop using glyphosate in weed control and are investigating other chemical free methods.

Several European countries, including Holland, Denmark and Sweden, have banned or restricted the use of glyphosate herbicides by local authorities, because of alleged links with a variety of health problems – not just cancer – ranging from birth defects and kidney failure to celiac disease, colitis and autism.

Glyphosate is the active ingredient in many weedkillers, but the extent of the impact is not only down to this one chemical.

On the August 1 a new EU regulation “(EU) 2016/1313” came into force, which specifically highlighted POEtallowamine as one of these toxic chemicals and banned its use as a co-formulant in the same product as glyphosate; “Member States shall ensure that plant protection products containing glyphosate

New MD for Bernhard and Company

Bernhard and Company has announced that Brian Batchelor has been appointed managing director for global operations.

Brian’s career history spans more than twenty years working in the oil and gas, medical and leisure industries. He has a strong track record of creating business value, strengthening and building core competencies, in order to deliver long term profitable growth.

“We are thrilled to have Brian on board,” comments

Stephen Bernhard, chairman and owner of Bernhard and Company. “Brian brings with him a wealth of experience which will prove invaluable in broadening our reputation as a leading player in the turf technology industry.”

Stephen Bernhard now plans to focus his time on other business development activities in his role as executive chairman.

Bernhard and Company Enquiry 27

do not contain the co-formulant POE-tallowamine (CAS No 61791-26-2).”

The new regulation also states that “Member States should ensure that the use of plant protection products containing glyphosate is minimised or prohibited in areas such as public parks and gardens, sports and recreation grounds, school grounds and children’s playgrounds and in the close vicinity of healthcare facilities.”

Councils will be expected to act upon this legislation across the UK, and across all member states

Branson celebrates at SALTEX

Not only will this year’s SALTEX mark the first anniversary of the show’s NEC debut last year, it will also mark the first ‘Birthday’ for Branson Tractors UK who launched the Branson range of compact tractors at the show.

Since appointing Fentons of Bourne as their first dealer at last year’s show, Branson Tractors UK have now appointed 28 dealers throughout the UK with Jenkin’s Garden Machinery of South Wales becoming the latest to take on the brand.

On stand K180, Branson will be showing the latest addition to their growing groundcare range - the 60hp 6225Ch - based on their ‘25’ series platform, this low

weight, high horsepower machine is the perfect choice for turf professionals – featuring the new ADS hydrostatic drive system for smooth power control, a range of tyres to suit any application and an impressive 1500 kg lift capacity on the linkage this tractor is built for hard work. Just like all Branson tractors, the 6225Ch benefits from 250-hour service intervals and has a 2-year professional warranty.

Within 12 months Branson Tractors have established their place in the groundcare compact tractor market; with high spec, professional tractors that will not break the bank.

Tractors Enquiry 28

of the EU as “This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.”

The future of glyphosate is uncertain; what is certain is that councils will have to look at alternative ways of removing weeds in areas where use of glyphosate is restricted.

Kersten UK provide many products for chemical free weed controlcontact info@kerstenuk.com or www.kerstenuk.com for more details.

UK Enquiry 26

Kersten

Branson

Corten steel steps from the Pot Company

Steel steps available from The Pot Company are made from 3mm thick corten steel that is hand crafter in Europe.

This material will natural weather to develop a rich and rusty finish that looks incredible next to plant life. These are a fantastic addition to any landscape project and as well as a range of standard sizes they are also available bespoke. Visit www.thepotco.com to see more.

Barenbrug UK announces new sales appointment

Barenbrug, the UK grass seed expert, has appointed Luke Hunt as new Area Manager for the East and South East of England.

Luke joined Barenbrug in the summer of 2016. An exgreenkeeper—most recently at the Hotchkin course at the National Golf Centre, Woodhall Spa—Luke is an established seed and Sportsturf expert, with five years’ experience working with seed breeders and merchants throughout the UK and Europe.

David Greenshields, Amenity Business Manager for Barenbrug UK said: “We are delighted to welcome Luke to the team. He brings with him, not only a passion for the industry and an understanding from a user perspective, he is also an expert in amenity grass and UK native wildflower seeds—an area we’re keen to expand on.”

Barenbrug Enquiry 32

Secure and durable granite sett re-pointing

The granite paving through the Peace Gardens in Sheffield has been refurbished for Sheffield City Council using GftK’s vdw 850 Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape.

The Council’s Engineers and their Contractor found the ideal solution was the unique, epoxy resin bound sand based, vdw 850 Paving joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape. This also enabled

all of the work to be successfully completed without having to completely close any areas of the popular commuter routes through the gardens.

The surface was rinsed, dry brushed-off and within a short period of time reopened – also with no delays for cold or wet weather.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 33

An all-in-one business management system

Evopos is built for modern business, using Microsoft .NET and SQL technologies, and it will be on show at SALTEX 2016 (stand H193).

It’s designed to be the complete solution for years to come for handling customer data, workshop service, whole goods, stock control, accounting, web integration and more,

Evopos has a simple interface which is easy to learn and consistent, we take great pride in its usability.

Evopos is scalable, made up of modules you can pick and choose, basically you are not going to pay for something you don’t need. Software that costs less and does more. Key benefits include:

• Complete Customer order tracking

• Links to supplier price files, electronic catalogues and EDI ordering systems

• Price levels – Customer pricing

• Special and back ordering options

• Easy to learn and simple to operate

• Workshop history stays with the whole goods even if it is brought and sold to another

Stock Control is a key function, it allows you to target you slow and fast moving items, monitor stock levels and review detailed history to help you make sure you keep only the moving stock at the best prices.

There are various options to keeping accounts, Evopos has its own full integrated accounts package however if you would prefer to automatically upload to 3rd party accounting systems such as Xero or Sage, it is an option at no extra cost.

The workshop module will allow you to book in, and organize

your engineers, allowing you to generate reports that can help you to improve efficiency and to produce time sheets, all leading to a better customer service.

Evopos is designed to work with barcode readers (EPOS), as well as reading job cards, orders, allowing you to scan items and whole goods, a one touch solution.

Over the last couple of years the Evopos development team have integrated Evopos with many online ecommerce solutions, such as Magento or Candy Press based sites. Users can now take advantage of an ecommerce site that is dynamically linked to the Evopos stock file.

Evopos is an extremely powerful business management tool that combines all the programs and features in to one easy to use package. Evopos will make your business more controllable and profitable, and with a low monthly subscription that includes support and updates.

Jenkins Garden Machinery gears up to Branson Tractors

Jenkins Garden Machinery of Cross Hands, Carmarthenshire has earned an enviable reputation for sales and service of garden machinery throughout South and West Wales.

The company has now been appointed a dealership for Branson Tractors.

Howell Jenkins who founded the business with his sons Gareth and Emyr said: “We have been looking for a compact tractor range for our customers who want more than a ride on mower.

“Many of them also need a machine that in addition to mowing can tow a trailer or be fitted with a front-end loader. When we saw the range of Branson tractors we were impressed with the quality engineering combined with

all the capabilities to meet our customers needs at a sensible price. Every new Branson tractor has a 2-year professional warranty and is supported by excellent after sales service.”

On completion of the agreement Nathan Walker, of Branson Tractors, concluded: “Appointing a dealer for West Wales is an important part of our strategic plan. The Branson brand is now firmly established with 28 dealers throughout Wales, England and Scotland.”

Although a new name for tractors in the UK, Branson Tractors have a strong presence in other parts of the world selling upwards of 20,000 tractors each year in Asia and throughout the USA where they have more than 200 dealers.

Branson Tractors Enquiry 34

ICL signals adaptability for champions

John Ledwidge, Grounds Manager for reigning Premier League champions Leicester City, adheres to an ICL structured nutritional programme for both the stadium and the training ground.

Outside of the programme, he also relies on a range of ICL products to help him overcome any hurdles which may come his way.

“The stadium pitch’s nutritional programme easier to manage because fixures are often set and we can plan out weekly or monthly product application, however, things always change at the training ground and certain aspects of the programme need to be adapted on a regular basis. So with that in mind we have a structured programme devised by ICL and as and when we come to any hurdles we already have the products there to be able to cope with it,” says John.

The core of John’s programme involves applying granular fertilisers from the Sierrablen range as a base feed every eight weeks and Greenmaster Pro-Lite every two weeks. In addition to his programme, John’s micro-management style means that he sometimes needs to bring in a variety of other products from ICL and adapt the way he uses them.

In addition to the success of SeaMax, John also believes that ICL’s Qualibra wetting agent has been the ‘shining star’ so far this year.

He already runs a Qualibra programme in which he applies 20 litres per hectare across the whole training ground, but when the start of the season was fast approaching and he was pressed for time, he decided to use it in an alternative manner.

ICL Enquiry 39

Top designer turns to MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME

Faced with the challenge of creating gardens at two of this year’s RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) shows, one of Europe’s leading garden designers has turned to the versatility of MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME to help provide stand-out features.

Andrew Fisher Tomlin’s creations at this year’s RHS Hampton Court and RHS Chelsea Flower Shows both feature the innovative, engineered timber product,

MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME and both won awards.

For the Bowel Disease UK garden for Crohn’s Disease at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, Andrew found that MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME was his material of choice.

MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME is an extremely durable, FSC certified wood panel benefiting from the latest advancements in proprietary acetylation technology which alters the wood’s chemical structure making it practically impermeable to water and therefore not vulnerable to swelling or shrinkage.

Medite Tricoya Enquiry

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Aitkens keep the bowls rolling

Aitkens has helped to improve the greens at Barnsley Bowls Club with a tailored cost effective programme that has strengthened the sward and tackled the issues of dry patch and weak turf colour.

The two bowling greens are under the stewardship of head greenkeeper, Eric Phillips, and sit within the Shaw Lane Sports Complex in Barnsley, which also hosts athletics, archery, cricket, rugby, hockey and other sports.

Both bowling greens are currently treated with Award Ultima

fertiliser, Award Nutri-Pro, Surf To Turf liquid fertiliser, Award Osprey Active and Blade 2 grass seed. Both greens have vastly improved since the regime was implemented, drawing praise from home and away players alike.

The combination of fertilisers –both liquid and granular – grass seed and wetting agents has tackled the issues Eric faced, with the head greenkeeper of ten years previously not happy with the condition of the greens.

Aitkens Enquiry 40

ArtificialGrass.com joins the BMF

ArtificialGrass.com, has become a member of the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) in a move that will positively impact its customers.

The BMF is an organisation that represents and protects the interests of merchants and suppliers to the merchant industry. It is also the primary provider of industry specific and specialist training for members.

Members of the BMF gain access to meetings and seminars organised to be insightful and informative, covering topical matters such as sustainable products or Health and Safety inspections.

ArtificialGrass.com has experienced a huge increase in sales this year. Artificial grass is perfect for the modern individual seeking ways to simplify and enhance their garden experience as it allows for a stunning garden all year round without the hassle and expense of maintaining it.

ArtificialGrass.com offer a full range of professional quality landscaping products plus free technical support and full training backed up by educational programmes to enable builder’s merchants to understand how to sell its unique products.

ArtificialGrass.com Enquiry 37

The Kay’s Mentor on RHS challenge

The Green Plan It Challenge is an opportunity for Key Stage 3 secondary school students to engage in a ten-week project where they re-think the role of green space for community benefit.

Richard and Rachel have been paired up with Jonathan Whittemore and Rob Richardson from Johnsons of Whixley and both parties will volunteer their

time and experience to mentor

challenge is to inspire the students to have a love for gardening and the landscape, teach them new skills and mentor to enable them rethink the role of green space.

The Green Plan It is ultimately a competition between local schools and the students, supported by their industry mentors will have to work as a team to design a new green space - in school or their local community.

Green Tech Enquiry 41

Green-tech’s owners Richard and Rachel Kay have volunteered to help the Royal Horticultural Society with their Green Plan It Challenge which was launched at RHS Garden, Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire.

pupils from King James’s School in Knaresborough. Their

Headland helps club give weeds the elbow

Tewkesbury Park Golf Club in the Gloucestershire countryside offers a challenging 18 hole, par 72 course for both professional and amateur golfers alike.

When Course Manager Chris Bromley joined the club in April 2015 he turned to Headland Amenity for the help he needed to sort out the weed problem on the greens, tees, approaches and fairways to bring the general course presentation back up to the standard it once enjoyed.

Adi Masters of Headland conducted some soil samples and together with Chris worked out a plan to eradicate weeds and boost overall plant health. For

weed control, Adi recommended Redeem, tank mixed with Elevate Fe and Xtend Soluble 46-0-0 which was applied to the tees and approaches in April. For the fairways, a mix of Redeem and Elevate was applied in May.

A full Headland greens programme has been in place since September 2015 which includes Seamac ProTurf, Protec Hi-K, Turfite, Seamac Ultra and Clipless. There currently isn’t the budget available for a fairway feeding programme but as Chris describes Tewkesbury as a “grass factory”, he doesn’t have the need for one at the moment.

Club achieves the results with Johnsons Sport Seed mixtures

Terry Wharton, Head Greenkeeper of Haydock Park Golf Club describes his job as “varied but challenging at times, especially when dealing with problems the weather brings.”

But he has been achieving some fantastic results in managing the greens and getting them to contain the right species to deal with rainfall and the fluctuating temperatures. The project has been helped along by John Hughes at Johnsons Sports Seed.

Haydock was founded in 1877 and is the third oldest in Lancashire offering 18 tree lined parkland holes. Over the years Terry has been overseeing the club he has seen some big changes in the industry - machinery options; learning opportunities, but none more so than the expectations of presentation and playability of courses.

“People watch golf on TV and don’t realise the staffing levels and budgets they’ve got to play with,” he said. “It’s pushing us to always strive for better, so around 15 years ago, through research and STRI trial results, we started using Johnsons products. They’re constantly researching, developing and improving the seed which fits with what we’re trying to achieve here at Haydock.”

Terry and his deputy David Traynor went to the STRI with John Hughes to look at the Johnsons trial plots, where John explained the cultivars and how they’re performing.

“At the time we were also using the ProMaster 40 mix from DLF on our tees and to witness the performance of the seed under the STRI trials was fascinating,” explained Terry. “In 2015, we

stripped a complete tee and instead of turfing it like we usually would, we used PM40 on the back of that day at Bingley and it has delivered great results.” In recent years, they’ve switched over to Johnsons J All Bent on the greens to help reduce Poa annua invasion.

Last year, within 10 days of sowing the J All Bent they had great germination. Going over to all bents was a great move with the composition of the

Husqvarna improves your fleet

teams will get improved control of up-time, machine handling, and vibration reports, all in the name of safer and more productive landscaping operations.

Utilising

Husqvarna Fleet Services, a cloud-based service that connects the machine-fleet and

the landscaping teams directly to an on-line portal, enabling landscaping businesses to get substantially improved business insight of their operations, right at their fingertips.

desirable bent grass increasing on the greens. Final word from Terry, “We’re now getting great comments from the players as well as our STRI agronomist Alistair Beggs. It’s thanks to Johns ‘second to none’ knowledge and advice which, combined with good products, gives us the best fighting chance of delivering great surfaces.”

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

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

Let’s Work

Make Molehills Out Of Mountains

Headland Amenity Enquiry 43

Johnsons Sport Seed Enquiry

Landscaping Industry is about to become connected with Husqvarna Fleet Services, which will be demonstrated at SALTEX 2016 on stand H040.

sensors on outdoor power products, landscaping businesses and their landscaping

Husqvarna Enquiry 45

Community wildlife space grand opening

Staff and students of Capel Manor College, with their community partner, Emily Harris have announced the opening of the Crystal Palace Park Community Wildlife Space.

The nature space has been partfunded by Bromley Council’s Community Project Fund.

Bromley councillors, investors, students and members of the community all gathered for the grand unveiling of the community wildlife space last week, and ceremoniously cut a green ribbon to mark the occasion.

The Space will attract and support local wildlife and provide the local community with opportunities to learn about, explore and engage with nature found on their south-east London doorstep.

The Space has been created on a 100m square piece of land that was inaccessible to the public, however members of the

community will now be able to gain access to the space through the Farm in Crystal Palace Park.

Andy Smith, Centre Head at Capel’s Crystal Palace Centre said: “One of the best parts of this project is that our Animal Care, Arboriculture and Horticulture tutors and students used their expertise and worked together to make this a huge success.

“Also, thanks to Maggie Roy who lead this project from the initial concept and bidding for funds all the way to the finished design, and to Emily and Kirsti for all their design skills.”

Staff and students of Capel will maintain and develop the Space on an ongoing basis, improving the features and activities in collaboration with the local community. A programme of community events and family learning activities is also in development.

Sustainable solution to the thorny issue of Japanese Knotweed

A high quality weed control membrane with proven performance, Plantex Platinium keeps knotweed (and other aggressive weeds such a horsetail, giant hogweed, couch grass, bamboo and himalayan balsam) reliably out of the picture.

An easy to install, single application is all that’s required for immediate results, whether covered or left uncovered in its discreet dark green hue.

Plantex Platinium also ensures a balanced soil environment and landscape stability by allowing nutrients and water to pass through, while preventing unwanted growth from penetrating upwards… and all this in a chemical free solution with a 35 year limited warranty.

The durability of Plantex Platinium is known to be 50 years, if topped with a 10cm layer of soil. Many years of expertise and testing thus enables DuPont to offer a high-performance, low-hassle product with total confidence – and with renowned levels of service and support.

Lawn Master gains second ISO certification

Lawn Master, a national lawn care company, has become the first of its kind to receive ISO 14001 certification, the internationally agreed standard for the environmental management of businesses.

The standard demonstrates an organisation’s efforts to identify, manage, monitor, control and

improve their environmental performance. It comes six years after the company, whose headquarters are in Denbighshire, became the first in its sector to achieve ISO 9001 certification, which focuses on the quality management of businesses.

Lawn Master Enquiry 50

AQUA-AID brings uniform success to club

Whether for public parks or private gardens, solar farms or waterside pathways, Plantex Platinium allows landscape and horticultural professionals to deliver a non-biocidal and nonmechanical solution that also prevents further dispersion and contamination.

Offering high tear resistance, Plantex Platinium comes in widths of 1m, 2m and 5m, enabling extensive coverage and requiring fewer joints. Its permeability not only encourages soil health, but also means that installers don’t need to manage drainage of the covered area, or hydrostatic differential pressures.

In addition, lateral confinement of invasive weeds such as Japanese knotweed can be achieved by applying the vertical barrier Plantex Rootbarrier, which together with Plantex Platinium offers a complete system.

Experts understand the escalating nature of the knotweed problem, now it’s time for all concerned to become fully aware of the simple, economical and lasting solution.

Plantex Enquiry 48

The use of both AQUA-AID OARS PS and HS with VerdeCal G has led to the removal of black layer and localised dry patch at Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club, enhancing the depth of the roots and strength of turf.

Both black layer and localised dry patch had been small issues, and in the pursuit of the perfect 18-holes the club was recommended OARS HS, OARS PS and Verde-Cal G, which in tandem have eradicated both problems.

The gypsum (calcium sulfate) within Verde-Cal G is combined with the organic complexing agent thCa. This makes it more readily available for soil or

plant use without effecting or raising the ph.

Using the product loosens compacted soil, improves aeration and allows water to percolate, which directly combats the causes of black layer within the root zone.

The use of Verde-Cal G further enhances the power of OARS, as the soil profile is already less compacted, and water is able to flow freely through it, where OARS can then dictate how the moisture is distributed. This gives greenkeepers the power to manage the soils moisture content throughout the season, regardless of the conditions.

Enquiry 49

Aqua-Aid

Capel Manor Enquiry 47

Green Gate launches first solar powered barrier and gate system

The UK’s first mobile, solar powered barrier and gate system has been officially unveiled.

Harnessing the sun’s energy, SOSEC is a revolutionary new approach to securing work sites; without the need for a power source it can be used anywhere and easily moved wherever it’s needed. Once delivered, it is quick and simple to install.

SOSEC combines a five-metre automatic traffic barrier with optional drop skirt and LED lights to control vehicles, with a rugged, locked and self-closing gate for pedestrians. It can also be supplied

including in the construction, retail, events, highways, emergency and mining markets. The product’s solar power and power storage ability are unique and allow the barrier to operate up to 900 times a day even in an average British winter. SOSEC can also be delivered with a battery store for up to one month’s use.

Sector leader Green Gate Access Systems, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, developed the SOSEC concept to answer a growing need to provide public safely and work site security where power

Bituchem brightens new residential site

Bituchem’s specialist Natratex surfacing material continues to be a popular choice for new housing developments as it sees more applications across the UK.

Natratex, Bituchem’s leading material, has been used to create footpaths, roads and driveways in residential areas, including a recent development in Quedgeley, Gloucestershire.

Approximately 2000m 2 of Bituchem’s Natratex Cotswold was applied around the new site, giving attractive and hardwearing new roads and pathways to residents. The material contrasts with the traditional black asphalt that surrounds the site, whilst complementing the colours of the newly built houses.

Natratex Cotswold is as hardwearing as it is attractive, offering the same durable, high-performance qualities as traditional asphalt technology. The material is designed and

tested to withstand regular pedestrian and light vehicular use and is created using a specialist clear synthetic binder and naturally-occurring, coloured aggregates to offer a fully compact finish.

Once applied, Natratex is virtually maintenance-free and maintains its colour for a long-lasting finish. The smooth surface is also considerably safer than other alternatives, such as concrete, as it is resistant to cracks and potholes and does not create a trip hazard to pedestrians.

Besides the natural-looking Cotswold finish, Natratex is also available in a range of colours and finishes, including gravel, red and salmon. Bituchem has also developed a striking coloured range, Natratex Prime, to give architects and specifiers extra flexibility when designing new landscapes.

TERRAM expands grass reinforcement mesh range

TERRAM, the market leading geosynthetic brand has expanded its popular GrassProtecta range of grass reinforcement mesh products.

Following positive customer feedback across a variety of installations including golf courses, National Trust sites, landscape gardens and airports the range has been extended to include three new products; GrassProtecta Lite, GrassProtecta Medium and GrassProtecta Heavy.

GrassProtecta Lite is a 10mm mesh suitable for withstanding the pressures of occasional car parking and heavy pedestrian traffic.

The solution is ideal for paths on golf courses or car parking areas that are not in regular use. GrassProtecta Medium is a 13mm-thick mesh suitable for

overspill parking, cycle paths with occasional maintenance vehicle access and regular residential parking.

GrassProtecta Heavy offers additional strength through a 14.5mm mesh. The product is suitable for paths with regular vehicle access, event parking spaces or occasional industrial vehicle parking. GrassProtecta® Heavy is also ideal for caravan sites and areas where greater support is required.

All GrassProtecta products are manufactured in the UK using high quality recycled and virgin highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Maldon, Essex. Each solution is available in rolls of 1m or 2m wide with lengths of 10m or 20m. TERRAM

Bituchem

Star Rubber provides an extensive range of innovative solutions

Star Rubber provide everything the safety surfacing community desire, from installing surfaces such as traditional EPDM, Tiger Mulch and Agri-Flex to supplying Tiger Mulch material to trained licensees as well as innovative Star Kerb, Star Covers and the tools needed to succeed in the installation of Wet pour. Testing all our products to the highest standards of BS1788 and BSEN1177 whilst using the strongest and most reliable binders available. This Reflects the reason all our surfaces come with a 5-year guarantee and the piece of mind the end user can enjoy environments safely.

Tiger Mulch/Agri-Flex:

Star Rubber is the UK’s only manufacturer of Tiger Mulch and Agri-Flex, durable bound rubber mulch and aggregate systems made from 100% recycled truck tyres combined with high performance PU resin. An ideal landscaping or play surface product that has been tested to the highest standards of BS1788 for Slip Resistance, rate of ignition, tensile strength and more and BSEN1177 for critical fall heights up to three metres.

Wet Pour:

Our Wet pour surface Safti-Top is a permeable surface perfect for every aspect of children’s play, installing graphics or using vibrant colours collaborated with the highest standard of certification means children have excellent entertaining areas to run and play whilst staying safe in the event of bumps and falls.

Christchurch Quomps Splash and Play Park

Before the summer of 2016 Star Rubber Environmental Ltd took on the over haul of resurfacing both the main play park and the splash park on Christchurch quomps. Covering over 1200m2 and under tight time scales the team were hard pushed to design and carry out the resurfacing work.

‘Stretch Your Imagination, Let Us do the rest’

Originally the councillors were happy to settle with a surface similar to what they had before, block colours of blues, and greens. However with the large open spaces and idyllic location we were determined to achieve the ultimate ‘WOW FACTOR’ with;

• Raised and soft Sand dunes under the water jets

• Sparkling sand

• Kerbed and filled steps

• Flowing blue River surfacing linking play park to splash park

Using the highest quality materials and with a stretch of imagination the children in living and visiting Christchurch have one of the best and safest play spaces in the country.

With sand dunes doubling up as a raised area keeping kids out of the water, like an island, yet keeping them safe as its extra soft should there be any falls.

The Star Kerb was used with the EPDM, meaning the old problem of slippery steps; bumps and burses were no longer an issue.

“Cheers, it looks amazing…REALLY AMAZING”

Matthew Reeks, Christchurch and East Dorset Council

Star Kerb:

Star Kerb has been designed by Star Rubber Ltd to create the perfect edge for laying wet pour onto a hard surface, steering clear of the traditionally risky chase cut and totally irradiating the age old problem of thermal shrinkage. Providing a firm vandal resistant edge as well as a distinct clean finish to the surface, which also stands as a demarcation point for the start of the surface. Star Kerb can be used in collaboration with a new surface or also help repair existing surfaces.

Star Cover:

The Star Cover is a quick and easy solution for the use of surfacing over existing drains and manhole covers removing unsightly iron works and erasing the costly construction fees. This enables the original drain to remain fully accessible for maintenance, whilst punched wholes in the bottom of the drain cover increase drainage and greatly reduce pooling. Available in various sizes and depths the Star Cover is zinc and powered coated with a uniquely designed lifting system, which acts as an anti tamper and anti finger trap whilst a double rolled edge gives you a very soft feel under foot.

Telling the story of Decori

CEL produces laser cut metal, fabrication and all aspects of sheet metal work in Telford in the West Midlands.

The directors identified a gap in the market for a more designer orientated product with internal and external use, incorporating metal laser cut patterns.

With a skilled and creative workforce at its disposal CEL has launched Decori, a new product range to architects, builders, landscapers and designers using metal panels within their projects.

The flexibility of the panels has resulted in a wide range of uses such as architectural fence panels, balcony panels, gate ways, screening, decorative wall art, sculptural landscape focal points, signage, seating, tables and planters.

Decori specialise in using many different types of metals such

as aluminium, the increasingly popular Corten weathered steel, along with stainless steel brushed or mirror finished. The Zintec metals will not rust so allows panels to be placed outside with no worry of corrosion.

Many unique commissions have been undertaken to fit within a designer’s brief. The unique selling point for many designers is Decori having the skills to render a photograph of their chosen pattern, colour in location ready for the designer to show the client for approval before ordering.

The use of company logos and originated designs with a full powder coating service offers the full package.

Sales leads instantly flood in

Since becoming a Composite Wood Company distributor, Welsh company Principality Plastics Warehouse has received more sales leads in three weeks than other suppliers have passed on in 10 years.

Principality now stocks Composite Wood Company decking, fencing and balustrades for trade customers in South Wales & Gloucester and can also supply directly to homeowners via the installation side of its business.

Principality has committed to holding stock in its three branches in Cardiff, Swansea and Gloucester, and now has exclusive

distribution in those key areas.

Composite Wood Company sends leads direct to Principality for its preferred postcodes.

Composite Wood Company Enquiry 60

Interpave at Flood Expo

The trade association Interpave exhibited at Flood Expo in ExCeL, London and hosted an important presentation by SuDS guru Bob Bray.

As the driving force behind concrete block permeable paving, Interpave promoted the latest innovations with this important SuDS technique.

SuDS guru Bob Bray discussed new approaches to SuDS for flood prevention and enhanced water quality while reducing costs, minimising land-take

and maximising landscape design and masterplanning opportunities, illustrated with recent exemplar case studies. A fresh approach to permeable paving will be promoted, using straightforward orifice flow control chambers to demonstrate water storage deployed around developments without dedicated storage occupying valuable land.

As an established technology with proven performance, concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed to play a key role in SuDS as a source control

and storage facility, requiring no additional land-take.

Not only can it reduce, attenuate, store and treat rainwater runoff near the surface, meeting current SuDS guidance, it also provides completely level, well drained

and slip-resistance surfaces accessible to all. The latest developments with SuDS and urban design are summarised in Interpave’s new ‘Hard Landscape Today’ brochure.

Interpave Enquiry 57

Mobilane LivePanel on display at Inleaf

Inleaf, the Manchester-based commercial plants specialist has added a Mobilane LivePanel system and three LivePictures to its showroom to allow the company to better demonstrate their benefits to clients, as well as to other installers interested in becoming Inleaf franchisees.

Founded by husband and wife Daniel and Charlotte Athertona qualified Landscape Architect - Inleaf are keen supporters of Mobilane systems and have recently completed the design and installation of a 25m square installation as part of an office refurbishment for a pharmaceutical company in Chester.

Granite paving upgraded for modern street demands

The historic Church Road in Hitchin is now home to popular Town Centre shops, pubs and restaurants, so it is subject to frequent traffic including heavy delivery trucks and brewery drays.

The historic granite sett paving is incredibly durable and longlasting, but the traditional cement mortar jointing had deteriorated under this modern street stress and had been

patched and replaced many times. Hertfordshire Highways Engineers made a series of visits to inspect other completed granite paving refurbishment projects and trial areas were laid in the road with all of the leading paving jointing products.

The Clear Winner was GftK’s vdw 855 Paving Joint Mortar - this is ‘State-of-the-Art’ and specifically designed to

accommodate heavy traffic loading. It is easily installed as a self-compacting slurry, even at low temperatures and in the pouring rain if necessary. It then hardens rapidly to provide

“Having the LivePanel and LivePicture at the showroom is useful for demonstrating the systems to clients,” explains Daniel Atherton. “However, Inleaf is a franchise operation and all our franchise events are held at our showrooms, so the LivePanels and LivePictures are useful for educating potential franchisees about the unique products they can offer.”

Inleaf will recruit, train and support franchisees, as well as taking the lead on new products such as Mobilane systems.

Mobilane Enquiry 59

a highly durable surface that is fully resistant to mechanical road sweepers and freeze-thaw cycling in winter.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 61

Going Dutch with clay pavers

Natural Paving Products has launched a new range of premium Dutch hand crafted artisan clay pavers.

Baksteen Clay Pavers offer users a huge range of possibilities and will be available in nine colours. The pavers are remarkably versatile and can be used across a variety of projects.

With its narrow, rectangular design the product can be laid at a variety of angles creating unique designs across a number

of different applications. When laid on bed (the largest flat side) the pavers are ideal for pedestrian use and lightly trafficked areas such as a domestic driveway. If laid on edge the clay pavers can withstand heavy vehicular traffic.

In addition to premium Dutch hand crafted artisan clay pavers the company also offers Vitripiazza, an exclusive range of Italian vitrified porcelain paving.

Natural Paving Products Enquiry 63

Decori Enquiry 58

Redexim range of synthetic maintenance has it covered

The FA’s St George’s Park recently played host to a Charterhouse Turf Machinery briefing for its range of synthetic turf machinery.

Redexim’s Synthetic Product Specialist, Curtis Allen, gave an update on the range of machinery originally launched in 2006.

He explained how the range now spans 35 products covering the 3 main areas of synthetic maintenance; Brushing, Cleaning and Rejuvenation. The majority of new product developments, he said, had come from industry advancements and customer demands.

One machine being demonstrated by Curtis was the RTC brush. This is a combination of a tractor unit and brush for convenience and ease. This unit allows the operator to quickly and effectively

brush surfaces as part of a regular maintenance regime. The RTC brushes fold away to allow storage and access through gaps as narrow as 90cm. Also shown were the Verti-Top cleaning unit

SIS Pitches completes a footballing first

SIS Pitches has officially handed over playing surfaces for the completed Graves Football Hub in Sheffield.

The venue will serve as a pilot for The FA’s £200 million plan to transform the quality of grassroots football through the providing purpose-built multi-pitch facilities at strategic locations across towns and cities in England. The project was procured under a framework agreement to provide the design,

manufacture, installation and maintenance of artificial grass pitches.

The agreement is supported by the Rugby Football Union (RFU), Football Association (FA), Sport England, England Hockey, Sport England and the Football Foundation (FF) capital investment programmes.

The selected surface is the market-leading monofilament system, SIS Soccer Pro 60.

and a sneak preview of the new Pedestrian Verti-Top which is currently in the UK for testing.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 64

O’Brien Sports secures Broxhill Sports Centre contract

Leading synthetic and natural sports pitch specialist, O’Brien Sports, has been appointed JCT Design and Build subcontractor for the delivery of new facilities at Broxhill Sports Centre in Romford by local contractor Valuegrade.

The scheme is part of Havering Council’s vision to provide the community with exciting new sports facilities that will include a new full sized 3G football pitch designed and constructed to meet the requirements of the FIFA Quality Concept, multi-use games area along with a polymeric sprint track and car park.

O’Brien’s work will include earthworks remodelling of the site to form a plateau level ready for the installation work.

O’Brien Sports prides itself on being at the forefront of technology and has invested in and operated state-of-theart GPS and laser-guided earthworks plant for some time.

Mick O’Brien, Director, O’Brien Sports, who will

manage the project, said: “Our earthworks team provide accurate calculation of material quantities, including those for cut to fill scenarios, enabling us to deliver clear, accurate and reliable information and advice to clients, before, during and after contracts.”

“Where possible, we create a design that incorporates as much of the site material into the project, reducing the need to dispose of materials to landfill. This helps us offer our clients the best possible price, whilst also minimising our environmental impact.”

“Valuegrade is a highly regarded main contractor built on a reputation of delivering quality and trust. We are delighted that they recognised our sports capabilities for the installation of this scheme.”

Tim Storrar, Valuegrade, said: “We are looking forward to collaborating with O Brien’s and believe the time spent prior to work commencing on site has been extremely valuable with regards to managing out the problems that are normally associated with these types of schemes.”

It offers excellent durability and resilience, combined with exceptional player comfort and is manufactured here in the UK at the SIS Manufacturing plant in Cumbria.

The project was funded by The FA, local and national bodies with Sheffield City Council also contributing.

SIS Pitches Enquiry 66

STM and partners deliver 3G pitch

Synthetic Turf Management (STM) have had a very busy summer this year, and just as the schools have gone back to school this week, Abraham Guest Academy were able to walk into their school facing a brand new 3G pitch!

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

Specialists in installing artificial turf and sports surfaces, STM worked with British manufacturers and fellow SAPCA members TigerTurf to

deliver a high performing sports facility that would benefit all pupils within the school.

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

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

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

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

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

O’Brien

Synthetic Turf Management Enquiry 67

TigerTurf blog receives RIBA CPD approval

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has granted CPD approval to a blog by leading artificial grass manufacturer, TigerTurf UK.

Thanks to its RIBA approved status, a range of posts on the TigerTurf blog, which aims to enhance readers’ understanding of how artifi cial grass can be specified for different sport and landscape-based applications, can now count towards the annual CPD requirement for architects and other construction professionals.

As well as offering regular sport-specific guides to the specification process and guidance on the design and construction of artificial grass spaces, the blog also offers insight into its uses, maintenance, and how sports clubs can increase their chances of submitting a successful funding application.

Architects eager to benefit from regular insight from the world of artificial grass can even sign up to a tailored newsletter, which highlights articles specifically geared towards the interests of RIBA members.

Those wishing to enhance their knowledge of artificial grass

further can also take advantage of a RIBA-approved CPD seminar offered by TigerTurf, which explains what it means to specify synthetic grass for a 3G football or rugby project.

Upon request, the one-hour session can be delivered at registered practitioners’ offices free of charge, and covers a plethora of topics ranging from what a 3G pitch is and the sports’ governing bodies testing and accreditation processes, to installation, maintenance, and environmental considerations.

Paul Langford, managing director at TigerTurf UK said: “Our blog reflects our belief that, as a manufacturer, we have a responsibility to offer

information and advice as well as our range of products.

“Architects know only too well how important the specification process is to any construction project, and the content posted on our blog is there to help those considering the use of artificial grass.”

Joni Tyler, Head of CPD at the RIBA added: “There can never be a ‘cookie cutter’ approach to professional development, and TigerTurf’s blog is the perfect example of how a manufacturer has delivered useful content in a format architects can turn to in order to learn about a chosen topic.”

TigerTurf Enquiry 70

GMS add Terra Clean 160 for new school season

One of NE England’s leading grounds maintenance contractors, Grounds Maintenance Specialists Ltd has taken delivery of a Wiedenmann Terra Clean 160.

The Northumberland based company which covers North and South Tyneside, Durham, Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, has a sizeable portfolio of education establishments on its books, with a growing emphasis on artificial maintenance.

Julian Acton, GMS Director, said: “We have almost 200 school clients all of whom expect a first rate service.

“Increasingly customers are aware that lifting litter is only part of what needs to be done and they appreciate that with 20 years’ experience we are in a good position to advise.

“Some of the more elite surfaces have around a million filaments per square metre and under the terms of their carpet warranty have to be carefully maintained on a regular basis. Pitch owners are recognising now that if a synthetic pitch is ‘cared for’ then it more likely to achieve its allotted life span.

“Many stand-alone sites aren’t always in a position to maintain their own pitches. In some instances they have nowhere to store machinery or can only afford limited kit.

“As a contractor we have different machines for specific tasks and are used to devising bespoke programmes where we pick litter, redistribute the infill and deep clean the pitch. At this time of year, leaves and other wind fall get in between fibres and if not removed, their build up can lead to problems with drainage or encourage moss and algal.”

The Terra Clean 160 is the fifth Wiedenmann machine in the GMS fleet and will serves as a sweeper, cleaner and collector. It has a cyclone filter system which

McArdle Sport Tec selected for rugby pilot scheme

McArdle Sport Tec has been selected as the contractor appointed for the artificial 3G rugby pitch construction at major rugby club Hornets RFC, Weston-Super-Mare.

Working with TigerTurf, McArdle’s will be installing their new “Rugby 360” thirdgeneration artificial turf at the clubs Hutton Moor Road site. The Hornets have been selected as one of the clubs to

be included in the pilot scheme which aims to continue the RFU’s Rugby World Cup 2015 legacy of delivering over £50m investment over four years into the development of one hundred artificial 3G rugby pitches across England; sixty on rugby club sites and forty on community sites.

The scheme has been devised by the RFU to offer superior all-weather playing facilities

across the country, with the RFU pledging to invest in 100 floodlit artificial 3G rugby pitches for the grassroots game across the country over a fouryear period.

The major driver for installing artificial pitches is to sustain and grow participation in the game whilst overcoming increasing pressure on natural turf pitches, the impact of wetter winters resulting in postponed matches,

changing player expectations and competition from other sports investing in artificial pitches.

McArdle has commenced the artificial 3G rugby pitch construction at Hornets RFC and the project is anticipated to be completed before the end of the year.

McArdle Enquiry 72

“We wanted this particular machine because it combines both a sieved separation system with a dust cyclone extraction system to filter and remove miniscule deposits. The exceptional deep cleaning capability targets powdered rubber crumb. These tiny, fine particles can cause havoc to a pitch because they seal the playing surface and compact the yarn. Once this happens ball roll and play-abilty is compromised so regular deep cleaning is vital,” said Julian Acton.

Wiedenmann Enquiry 71

draws and removes dust cleverly inspired by the engineering solutions pioneered by trucks operating in sandy deserts.

Strain relief kit converts Terra Rake to synthetic use

Wiedenmann’s Terra Rake, a hugely popular scarifier and thatch remover on natural grass, can now be easily deployed on artificial surfaces.

An optional ‘strain relief’ kit is available and can be retro-fitted.

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

The 5 mm diameter spring tines on the Terra Rake are made of tungsten steel are very fine and agile. When they move at speed

over natural turf they tease out thatch incredibly well.

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

The Terra Rake’s spring tines are designed to loosen and tease the infill particles or rubber crumb apart. This instantly improves the shock absorption values and helps returns it back to the required standard.

Wiedenmann Enquiry 76

Koppl Hydro Compact Easy set to revolutionise turf care

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

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

Cleanion also goes to work on artificial surafces

Pellenc has launched the Cleanion – a pedestrian batterypowered brush suitable for removing debris from artificial grass and other hard surfaces.

The Cleanion from Pellenc, which is sold exclusively in the UK by Etesia UK, is a revolutionary, self-driven brush which is powered by the ULiB battery seen on the rest of the company’s range of tools.

With a large working width and a long operating time of battery charge sufficient for demanding professional use, the Cleanion has a range of uses including brushing artificial surfaces to keep the infill mobile, lift the pile and prevent algae accumulation and surface compaction.

The Pellenc Cleanion powered brush has adjustable speed and direction, as well as variable speed control for forward and reverse. Brushing pressure is also reflected in the LCD screen.

Optional attachments including a snow plough and can be changed conveniently using the quick release coupling and features a foldable handle for easy storage and transport between sites.

All Pellenc batteries and tools come complete with a three year commercial warranty as standard - the first manufacturer to offer this on battery-powered tools. Customers can now purchase Pellenc tools through Etesia’s finance partner.

Etesia UK Enquiry 77

products, the Compact Easy’s clever design means instead of having to purchase a number of machines for different tasks, you simply buy the attachments to fit the base unit, avoiding the expense of different stand-alone units.

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

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 75

Seminars show how facilities pay for themselves

A series of seminars this month will highlight an exciting funding scheme which enables the installation of state-of-theart community sports facilities – in the face of continuing economic challenges and government cutbacks.

Fast Track Funding – an initiative from leading synthetic surfacing supplier Notts Sport – has funded 22 new sports facilities worth in excess of £8.5 million over the past four years.

Fast Track Funding is the only non-traditional funding route for artificial turf facilities – such as 3G football and rugby, or multiuse hockey pitches – proven to be compliant with Education Funding Agency requirements and local authority or academy auditors.

It’s an ideal solution for schools and local authorities, providing high-quality, synthetic turf sports pitches, with little or no upfront capital contribution required.

That’s because most sports facilities are able to generate significant revenue through community use, and this income can be used to pay for a considerable proportion, if not all, of the cost of projects delivered under the unique scheme.

The company, which has over 32 years of experience in the sports and play surfacing sector, also assures full quality control throughout the installation through its turnkey project management service.

Notts Sports Enquiry 78

through

Range of Wide Area Mowers through EFFICIENCY Mowers

Primarily targeted at the municipal and groundscare contracting sectors, the MP family provides multiple options from a single design platform.

The versatility of the MP platform has resulted in a series of wide area mowers with the option of rotary decks or cutting cylinders. Engineered from the ground up for minimal, simple servicing and signi cant weight savings using high strength steel. The designed ef ciencies translate directly to keep your fuel usage down and operational costs low.

Two engines are available; a 49 hp Kubota diesel and a 65 hp turbocharged unit, providing bestin-class power-to-weight ratio. The advanced controller on the 65 hp engine facilitates ‘drive-by-wire’ and cruise control as well as PIN protected maximum mow and transport speeds.

Operator comfort is rst-class with an ISOmounted platform reducing noise and vibration together with a suspension seat ensuring long days of productive mowing.

Output from the MP Family is prodigious, but don’t

All-in-one solution from SCH

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

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

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

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

SCH Supplies Ltd Enquiry 82

SISIS Osca is pitch perfect

William Watson, head groundsman at Hamilton Academical FC, believes that his SISIS Osca has helped the synthetic pitch at the Superseal Stadium stand up to the rigours of an extensive amount of playing time.

Hamilton Academical along with Kilmarnock FC are the only two clubs in the Scottish Premier League to have synthetic surfaces, and the surfaces are not only played on by the first team but is also used by the youth teams. But as William explains, the amount of playing time can take its toll.

Contractor gears up for growing need for synthetic maintenance

Beaumont Grounds Maintenance has been seeing an increase in artificial surfaces, in particular with schools.

This has led to them expanding their machinery fleet with a Redexim Verti-Top 1200 from Charterhouse Turf Machinery.

The Verti-Top uses a rotary brush to lift the pile and extract up to the top 15mm of infill and foreign material. The infill is then sieved to remove dust and detritus before being returned and brushed into the surface leaving

a clean, level and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Alex and a supervisor are currently training an apprentice on it, with the aim of creating a dedicated synthetic team when the need arrives.

Currently, five sites have signed up for a quarterly deep clean and Alex is delighted with the results the Redexim Verti-Top is delivering.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry 84

“We have 6 or 7 hours of play each day on this pitch and quite honestly it’s a lot for the pitch to take. It can bring challenges with that amount of play - some of the areas can compact a little

sometimes especially in the goal mouths. Fortunately though, we’ve got the correct equipment in place to ensure we have no major problems.”

The TigerTurf surface, which was custom built for the club, was installed to the required FIFA 2 star standard and to help William keep it in excellent condition he relies upon the SISIS Osca. The SISIS Osca is a tractor mounted powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 meter working width and is equally effective when used on synthetic turf with sand or rubber infill.

The two oscillating brushes stand the carpet fibres up and redistributes the infill evenly, minimising compaction on the surface and improving its performance – giving consistent

playing characteristics while preventing pile damage caused by reduced infill levels. To complement the final result an additional brush can be fitted to the rear of the unit to help with the presentation of the pitch.

A contributory factor to the reduction of compaction is that the Osca’s working width will use fewer passes than other more conventional drag brushes to

complete a pitch. Its aggressive brushing action agitates the upper infill level of the surface from side to side as well as brushing forward, helping reduce surface compaction and encourage the fibres to stand up straight which reduces the risk of contamination, drainage problems and leaves a consistent playing surface across the whole pitch.

With over 40 years experience we have supplied, we can manufacture a variety of covers to suit a number of applications

Replay Maintenance helps university achieve Green Flag status

Nottingham Trent University comprises of 3 campuses; Clifton, City Campus and Brackenhurst.

The University’s Clifton and Brackenhurst campuses have been awarded a Green Flag, two of only nineteen university campuses recognised nationally in 2015/16.

Judges were particularly impressed by the outdoor sports facilities, including the allweather artificial pitches. Helping to keep the synthetic surfaces at their best is Replay Maintenance.

Landscape Services Coordinator Alan Horgan has been at the University for 32 years and is in charge of maintaining a range of landscape tasks including natural and artificial surfaces, supported by a team of 12. NTU has a sand-dressed surface primarily

used for hockey and 5-a-side and a 3G pitch which plays host to rugby and football.

The synthetic surfaces are relatively high use throughout the year by students and external clubs. This workload

means that the team carry out a maintenance programme of brushing, debris removal and checking for damage and organic growth 3-4 times a week.

Following the 3G’s installation in 2014, the university called in Replay Maintenance.

Replay goes in and conduct their Revive process six times a year. After each visit, Replay create a report on the pitch conditions which Alan finds really helpful.

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 85

todayplay&activity

Is UK planning policy for play facilities failing children?

“When it comes to our children’s health and wellbeing, are we planning to fail?”

That’s the question Association of Play Industries (API) Chair Mark Hardy will be asking at the SALTEX Learning Live education programme this year.

In his seminar, Play & Physical Activity – the Five Ps, the API Chair will present thought-provoking evidence comparing UK planning policy for public play facilities with Sweden, where child health and wellbeing is better than in the UK, and asks what lessons can be learnt.

“In Sweden, the public realm is planned to be child-friendly, he says.

“Multiple play facilities and spaces are planned throughout a local community, with children actively encouraged to roam and play. Here in the UK, planning policy restricts children’s

play to specific areas which discourages that freedom of movement. With a child obesity epidemic sweeping through UK society, perhaps it is time to rethink how we plan public play provision.”

Last month, the API urged the government’s Parks Inquiry to protect parks – and funding for them - because of the invaluable public service they provide for every part of society. In its submission to the Communities & Local Government committee, the association expressed its mounting concerns about the link between local authority budget cuts and dwindling opportunities for children to play and be physically active.

The API has also called for further levies on food and drink companies producing high sugar, salt and saturated fat products, particularly those targeted at children, to fund community facilities.

Mark Hardy says: “The government’s obesity strategy

was short on brave measures. Companies that contribute to the obesity crisis should be forced to fund the solutions. Where physical inactivity is concerned, prevention is better – and significantly cheaper – than cure.

“The revenues required to provide every local community with high quality facilities for play and physical activity would be small compared to the signifi cant benefi ts to child health and wellbeing, not to mention the wider social and economic benefits those facilities would bring.”

The API campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition of the value of play, both in its own right and as a member of the All Party Parliamentary Group for a Fit and Healthy Childhood, Children’s Play Policy Forum and Federation of Sports and Play Associations. API Enquiry 88

How do your balls bounce?

Sports surface manufacturer Playrite is the only company in the UK that can offer all three of the recognised methods for producing artificial surfaces: needlepunch, tufted and woven, from their factory near Wakefield. A familyowned and well-respected business, Playrite has been manufacturing quality playing surfaces for more than 20 years and exports

to all corners of the globe. The company exhibited at SALTEX 2016 at NEC Birmingham to showcase the diverse range of products and services it can provide.

Director Chris Pickles said: “Whether you’re playing bowls or netball, football, tennis or golf, a well-laid playing surface is crucial to the success of your sport.

“But different sports have different needs. Tennis balls need to bounce, rugby balls don’t. A golf course has short grass; a football pitch has a much longer pile.

“Each of the three recognised methods has its own merits, but because Playrite manufacture all three we can give unbiased and impartial advice as to which is best for your particular sport.

“We can provide a surface for just about any sport there is. When we work with a client we ascertain the priority and the standard of the sports they want to play on the surface and come up with a solution that meets their needs in as cost-effective a way as possible.”

Steelway Fensecure to display innovative self closing gate

Steelway Fensecure (stand A111) displayed two versions of the new Premier Safe selfclosing gate at this year’s SALTEX at NEC Birmingham.

The Premier Safe Spring Assisted Self Closing Gate and the Premier Safe Hydraulic Self Closing Gate have been designed to comply with entrapments of BS EN 1176 and the ROSPA guidance relating to gates for playgrounds. The company’s self closing gates have been

in production since the mid1990s and have proven to be very reliable and vandal resistant with only minimal upgrades over those years.

Steelway Fensecure has designed a highly technical engineered solution for the controlled opening and closing of playground gates.

Steelway Fensecure is a leading engineering and fabrication company that specialises in the manufacture of steel,

aluminium and GRP products. It offers a full in-house design, manufacture and installation service with onsite support.

Steelway Fensecure

Enquiry 90

Your essential guide for Sports & Playground Equipment in association with

Playrite Enquiry 89

Ransomes Sports FC U9’s train on industrial estate

Local team, Ransomes Sports FC U9’s, held a training session at Ransomes Jacobsen’s manufacturing facility on Ransomes Europark.

Sponsoring the team’s kit for the 2016/17 season, Ransomes Jacobsen invited the boys’

team to train on the RJ National football pitch, located adjacent to the company’s very own on-site 3-hole golf course. The team, set-up this year by Manager Nick Joy, currently has 11 players signed for the upcoming season, and they will compete in the 7-a-side Ipswich & Suffolk Youth Football League. The local side’s home ground is Ransomes’ Sports and Social Club, originally formed as a sports and social club for the exclusive use of Ransomes’ employees. The club is now owned by Ipswich council and is home to Ransomes Sports FC.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

92

Street Snooker game app set to launch

An innovative mobile app game is close to launch by Playinnovation encouraging players to download a free ‘flick football’ version of their patented games wall Street Snooker.

Available on mobile devices, the addictive arcade version of the game is played using the same rules as the outdoor version (throwing or kicking a ball at snooker inspired targets to score points).

Whilst playing, they will receive prompts to visit the nearest ‘real-life’ installation of the game, creating an instant and positive connection to the outdoor physically active version. Play Innovation Enquiry 94

Wicksteed launches new electronic play and learning system

Play design experts Wicksteed Playgrounds has introduced the new Learning ACTIV Zone (LAZ).

The LAZ is an educational product using technology to encourage physical movement, play and learning in a fun and interactive way.

With concerns over levels of childhood obesity in the UK and youngsters spending increasing amounts of sedentary time on mobiles, tablets and gaming devices,

Wicksteed’s inspirational new concept is set to be the next big thing in play equipment.

Ideal for use in school buildings and playgrounds, the LAZ consists of a physical e-wall with multi coloured, sensor-responsive satellites mounted at fixed positions.

The e-wall can be used in conjunction with an iPad via wireless connection for interactive learning in the class room or can be used independently with several

pre-programmed games as part of free play. Stuart Wetherell from Wicksteed commented: “We have been developing the synergy between electronics and traditional play equipment for several years.

Replay restores four-year-old Western Wildcats pitch

Established in 1898, Western Wildcats is one of the oldest and most successful hockey clubs in Scotland – and also one of the only clubs with their own pitch. Four years ago the club raised £450,000 to install what Club President Alastair Scott describes as “the best pitch in Scotland”.

To maximise the lifespan of their investment, and to keep the synthetic surface performing at its best, Alastair recently enlisted the help of Replay Maintenance. The pitch is used all the time, with 8 men’s and women’s teams,

junior teams of all ages from 8 to 18 as well as local schools and community groups calling the club their home. They are also the only club with both men’s and women’s 1st teams in European play-off places.

“It really is non-stop which causes a lot of wear on our surface” explains Alastair, who like many of the staff at Western Wildcats run the club on a voluntary basis. The installation of a water-based hockey pitch was a huge investment for the facility and to get the value from it, they understand the importance of maintaining it.

“On top of the heavy usage, here in Scotland it’s also often wet meaning we sometimes have problems with drainage.”

To compliment the in house brushing and sweeping conducted by Alastair’s volunteer grounds team, they called in synthetic maintenance specialists Replay Maintenance.

“We had Replay in a year or so ago to do a small clean of the pitch which is when they recommended we consider a full, deep clean of the surface every 3-4 years.”

As the surface was 4 this summer, Alastair decided it was the right time for Replay to conduct a deep clean using their unique AquaTrax unit. AquaTrax combines pressure washing and vacuum extraction to remove accumulated contamination, dirt and algal growth from unfilled or water-based

“The LAZ is a further development of this concept and we anticipate that UK schools and academies will see its huge potential within the learning environment.”

Wicksteed Enquiry 93

hockey surfaces. It also finds a home in the maintenance of polymeric athletics tracks.

“The work Replay carried out was outstanding. They advised it can take up to 4 days to do the job but knowing we had a tight window of opportunity to get them in, they managed to complete it in less than 3 which was fantastic. The 1st team played on the surface the night the works were completed and both the coach and the captain said how beautifully the pitch played, as good as it ever had. It’s effectively given us a new pitch!”

From here Alastair will keep an eye on the surface but wouldn’t hesitate to have Replay conduct a small or deep clean whenever the surface demands it.

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 95

New artificial cricket practice nets at Durham CCC

With its existing artificial practice facility condemned due to safety concerns and its site subject to occasional flooding it was imperative that a high quality replacement facility for coaching be installed at Durham’s Emirates Riverside Ground.

With Durham Cricket Board and Durham County Cricket Club combining funds for the project, the selection of a system from an ECB approved supplier was at the top of the checklist. Meetings were held on site with a number of suppliers which then quoted for the installation of a facility to meet the client’s needs - both in terms of usage and budget.

total-play’s proposal of a fully carpeted 3 Lane 40m artificial cricket practice facility built to its flagship, ECB approved tp365 non-turf pitch design impressed; and the company was appointed to undertake the project.

With the site of the existing artificial cricket practice nets at risk of flooding, a new site was identified in the form of a disused tarmacadam skate park. total-play designed the system specifically to meet the demands of this site before

undertaking every element of work; from demolishing existing structures and clearing the site of spoil through to installation of the new synthetic practice nets.

Work was completed on the system in March 2016 with the specification completed with the installation of total-play’s HD Protection Tunnel netting system, two-tone blue and green carpeting and batting curtains on either side of the middle lane.

Project lead Graeme Weeks, Director of Development at Durham Cricket Board, said: “I have dealt with total-play for many years and have always found their work very professional, with good after sales care, and more importantly, an excellent product.

“The Durham project has been no exception – the resulting facility is very good, from both a visual and performance perspective. I would happily recommend total-play to clubs looking to install a first class artificial cricket facility.”

Total-play Enquiry 99

Sutcliffe Play Home Show is a success

Sutcliffe Play once again opened its doors to customers for its fourth annual Home Show exhibition. Customers were invited to attend the two day event which included a series of workshops, seminars, a behind the scenes tour, new product previews and the opportunity to watch local families put Sutcliffe Play’s equipment to the test.

The event featured: • Ben Tawil from Ludicology hosting a workshop on why children need to take risks and how this can impact their development

• Robin Sutcliffe, Sutcliffe Play’s Chairman discussed a ‘Common Sense’ approach to play based on his 30 years of experience in the play industry

• Patrick Martin, Sutcliffe Play’s Design Manager provided an insight into the design process and gave a sneak preview of the company’s new product launches. Martin Griffin, Managing Director of Sutcliffe

Play comments: “The Home Show is the perfect platform to showcase our knowledge of the play industry and expertise in manufacturing.

We’re proud that the Home Show was once again visited

by both new and existing customers and we look forward to building long-lasting relationships for the future.”

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 98

Class benefits from outdoor teaching space

A busy school in Worcestershire has an active timetable, so when poor weather hampered playtime for its Year 1 children they started to look for a solution.

St Matthias Church of England Primary School turned to A&S Landscape, a canopy supplier, to remedy the problem of useable outdoor space.

A&S Landscape specified their Motiva Linear monopitch straight roof canopy for this

application. The canopy covers the existing play area and the bright red colour really lifts the building. The year 1 class caters for 30 children aged 5 who love it and use it daily for teaching as well as for its hugely popular Gardening Club and Playtime Pals sessions.

The canopy was manufactured in red RAL 3020 with the addition of Yellow post pads to ensure it was safe for the

children. The staff and pupils are love the new addition to their playground. The Deputy head stated;

“I am happy with everything A&S Landscape have done and will definitely asking them to quote again if we ever need a canopy or shade sail. I like the company and everyone was very friendly and great at communication. We love the canopy, it really brightens up the area outside of the classroom.”

“We went out for quotes and A&S were the only company that could fill an awkward gap. They were very accommodating. We love it and the 30 children aged 5 in our Year 1 love going outside and we are certainly able to use the outside space a lot more. It’s located outside our year 1 classroom and

Nominations almost closed for Fields in Trust awards

Voting is almost closed for the UK’s Best Park award, won last year by Telford Town Park (pictured).

Nominations include large nature reserves and small community gardens, sports fields and playgrounds, each one a valued green space to the person who nominated.

Across the regions and nations of the UK the reasons why people love their local park are as varied as the places but each is the favourite of the communities that use them.

At close of nominations at 5pm on Wednesday November 9, the park with the most votes in each of England, Wales, Scotland

and Northern Ireland will be shortlisted. Their nominators will be invited to attend the prestigious Fields in Trust Awards on Wednesday November 30 where the UK’s Best Park in 2016, as voted by the public, will be named.

Fields in Trust Chief Executive Helen Griffiths said: “We want to celebrate the parks and green spaces which are so vital to the communities that use them.

“The UK’s parks contribute to the physical and mental health of their local population and provide places for people to get together for community events.

“A good park is reflective of the community it serves, but,

as they are not a statutory service for local councils to provide, these much loved places could potentially be lost to development.

“Recognising the UK’s Best Park is a way of revaluing our green spaces; not viewing

there’s another door to it from the staffroom area so it’s conveniently located. It’s used daily for teaching and the Gardening club use it once a week. There’s also a playtime pals Session every morning and small groups of children use it in their free time.”

The Motiva Linear canopy is A&S Landscape’s monopitch straight roof variant - this is where one side is higher than the other. It can be used for many applications including walkways, waiting and seating areas. Colour options make it the prfect school canopy as it can be customized to suit your school colours and make a birght, bold addition to your playground.

All Party Group launches blueprint for a generation

The All Party Parliamentary Group on A Fit and Healthy Childhood has launched its sixth report and Co-Chair, Baroness (Floella) Benjamin has hailed it as ‘the most comprehensive blueprint for PE for a generation.’

Children’s champion, Baroness Benjamin claimed that PE was ‘the missing link’ in the crusade to promote the health and wellbeing of children and to combat the scourge of overweight and obesity.

serious review of the way it is taught so that all children can participate and experience the lifelong benefits to health.’ The report examines:

• The ways in which PE is taught in the four home nations and in other countries

• Ways in which girls can be encouraged to participate in PE

• The role of PE in the National Curriculum

• PE as part of a health and wellbeing matrix, including knowledge of good nutrition, sport and play

A&S

Landscape Enquiry 103

She said: “The long term adverse effects of obesity and overweight in childhood are now generally recognised and people as well as organisations from all walks of life realise that failing to tackle it is not an option.

“The need to combine sport with the knowledge of good nutrition and a healthy diet is now understood. But even though pockets of excellent practice exist, the importance of physical literacy has been largely disregarded, and this has to change for the sake of the nation’s long term future.

“So we hope that the proposals in our report will mark a new start for PE and that they will prompt a

• An inclusive PE curriculum for disabled children

• The role of modern technology in the teaching of PE

• Personalised programmes for children in PE so that they can work at their own pace.

Lead author, Helen Clark said that the publication of the report was both urgent and timely and hoped that it would be helpful to policy-makers: “It is time for PE to come out of the shadows and take centrestage in policies to promote the health and wellbeing of children from birth onwards.

them as a drain on resources for maintenance and upkeepbut seeing what benefits they bring; access to good quality recreational space can play a significant part in preventing poor health.”

Fields in Trust Enquiry 104

“Many of us will have had poor experiences of the PE lesson in our own schooldays. Now with a wider range of options on offer, there is no reason why PE should not be eagerly anticipated by all pupils, involving children in activities that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”

API Enquiry 105

are an established dynamic company based in Northern Ireland and working throughout Ireland and the UK.

experienced team has been designing and installing playgrounds since 1996 and we have become experts in delivering innovative playspaces.

The waterlogging solution that digs deeper

Landscapers, groundsmen and gardeners responsible for large grassed open space areas such as parkland, sports pitches, golf courses, bowling greens and avenues of trees, right through to domestic gardens, all share a common problem.

Compaction of the soil and panning lead to waterlogging which renders areas unusable, in many cases for long periods of time.

The usual focus will be on aeration to relieve compaction and open up the soil to allow air to get to the roots and improve drainage. Deep penetration aeration has proved successful for many years and is

well known by golf courses for relieving compaction panning on their greens, tees and even around tree roots.

In fact, the technique was introduced with the invention of the Terralift machine in Germany in the early 1970’s. Terralift is now owned and operated in the UK by Terrain Aeration.

What is unique is the ability to hydraulically hammer a probe one metre into the soil and release a blast of compressed air at a pressure of up to 20Bar (280psi) which fractures the compacted soil.

At a depth of one metre the probe has effectively passed though

Champion irrigation performance with Rain Bird’s IQ-Cloud

pans created by other aeration machines, opening up the soil and creating fissures.

On the tail end of the air blast dried milled seaweed, a natural eco-friendly product, is injected via the probe and this sticks to the walls of the fractures and fissures, swelling and contracting with the moisture content in the soil. Typical applications for deep penetration aeration have broadened from the original golf course treatment into football and rugby playing fields, bowling greens, cemeteries, National Trust properties, estates and private gardens.

Terrain Aeration Enquiry

108

Waterfield Solutions has been instrumental in providing Leicester City football club with a highly versatile pitch irrigation system.

It completely fulfils the club’s needs for a solution that offers extremely accurate irrigation levels, conserves water and includes the facility for remote management. Based on Rain Bird’s IQ-Cloud irrigation management technology, it was supplied through LWS, Rain Bird’s principal UK distributor.

Leicester City monitors moisture levels across all its playing surfaces to ensure accurate irrigation can be applied and access to the correct information with regards to the application of water is essential. The timing of irrigation is also critical and the club works hard to ensure there is no overwatering and that optimum moisture levels for plant health are continuously provided.

So when the club was looking to achieve an even higher level of accuracy to record water consumption for irrigation requirements, as well as wanting to implement remote control, Waterfield Solutions were approached. Their proposal was to upgrade the existing Rain Bird irrigation control system and allow stations to run simultaneously to enable watering to be carried out as efficiently as possible, both prematch and at half time.

The existing system and pump capacity could not handle that requirement and a new inverter controlled pump set was required. As more accurate records of how much water was being used were also needed, the installation of Rain Bird’s ESPLXME controller with IQ-Cloud provided the solution.

This facilitates remote real time management of the irrigation system through the addition of a communication cartridge to the controller, enabling employment of IQ-Cloud’s full suite of remote water management tools over the internet including accurate monitoring and adjustment of irrigation levels.These readings allow Head Groundsman John Ledwidge to have a clearer understanding of the needs and outputs of the irrigation system. The functionality of IQ-Cloud, which includes the collation of data from local weather stations, is an extremely useful tool and suggests what irrigation levels will be appropriate for the prevailing and predicted conditions.

“We find the IQ-Cloud system reliable and accurately records information. We now have the facility to quantify and manage irrigation applications precisely and to monitor the exact amount of water used, so accurate budgets can be worked out,” says John.

Campey helps cricket club build for the future

Campey Turf Care Systems has provided support to Langley Cricket Club as their pitch has gone from not fit for purpose to one of the best in the area, following

outfield drainage and development work on the square. As with most clubs, hosting matches is vital for Langley Cricket Club, as it provides them with a means of

revenue.With the old outfield as it was there were regular call offs, and a lack of training space made it very difficult to establish a youth section within the club.

The club realised the importance of being able to maintain the new surface once the first phase of work had been completed in October 2015, with the second phase starting in the middle of September 2016.

After consulting managing director of Campey Turf Care, Richard Campey, the club purchased a SISIS Comibrake, Turfman, Trio Rotorake, Dragbrush, Sarel Spiker, and Raycam Dragmat, which Langley’s grants offi cer Matt Stevens explains has kept the surface in fantastic condition, contributing heavily to the growth of the club. A main focus of carrying out the improvements was to build the youth set-up and have the ability to carry out regular sessions to allow that to happen.

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 112

Duncan Ross carries out essential work after floods

Duncan Ross has carried out essential turf rejuvenation work at Edenhall and Langwathby Cricket and Football Club, after severe flooding rendered the site unplayable.

The sports field, which is based in the Cumbrian village of Edenhall, is run by three trustees, and provides an area for villagers to play cricket, football, archery and croquet, as well as hosting athletics in the summer for a local school.

At the beginning of December 2015 the entire field was submerged in water for only the second time in over 100 years, leading to a build-up of silt on the pitches that needed professional work carried out to remove it.

After a tendering process Duncan Ross were chosen to carry out the essential maintenance on the site, which was recommended by the English Cricket Board and The Football Foundation, with their professionalism, planning and hands on appraising of the situation cited among the reasons behind them getting the job.

A grant was obtained from the ECB and Football Foundation to pay for the work, after their pitch advisors reports had stated that no activity should take place on the site before the silt that was left over from the flood was thoroughly removed.

Over the three days on site work was carried out on the cricket and football pitches using the newly

The machine was used to Koro scarify the cricket outfield before verti-draining it, whilst the Koro was also used to scarify the square before top dressing with loam and overseeding took place.

The senior football pitch was fraise mowed to remove the organic matter that had built up on the surface because of the laying water, including the silt, vertidrained and a layer of sand was applied before grass seed was drilled.

Elevating SuDS design to new heights

Designing and installing attenuation tanks has proved a problematic for the construction market for a number of years.

Geocellular systems have proved very popular in the last 10 years however they are not generally adopted by utility companies as they cannot be readily inspected or maintained.

Whilst precast systems overcome the issues of access , maintenance and design strength they are generally more expensive and require long lead in times and heavy lifting equipment to install, both of which cause on site issues, not least with health and safety.

Stormwater Elevator bridges the gap between these systems and overcomes the issues related to access and maintenance, structural integrity, and life expectancy.

As an innovative permanent plastic former system it is used to create an in-situ cast concrete

attenuation and stormwater storage tank without the need for heavy lifting equipment.

Its patented design offers engineers and contractors an alternative and cost effective way of achieving a strong concrete void up to 2.5m deep and to any plan size. In fact the Elevator system can save up to 20% on overall installed cost compared to geocellular crates and considerably more when compared to pre-cast concrete solutions

Stormwater Elevator is manufactured from a lightweight recyclable plastic making it easy to handle and quick to install which avoids the need for onsite heavy lifting equipment and helps to improve site safety, a major consideration on modern construction sites.

The modular system can be adapted to suit site requirements allowing any custom configuration to be easily and quickly formed.

Stormwater Enquiry 113

acquired Koro Field Top Maker from Campey Turf Care Systems.

Duncan Ross Enquiry 114

Bowls club goes ‘green’ with ATT

The 6-rink green at Potters Bar Bowls Club is maintained by volunteer Greenkeepers Rod Smale and his wife Sandra.

After first seeing the ATT INFiNiSyste 22” at SALTEX 2015 they knew the multifunctionality, via the range of cassettes, was what Potters Bar needed to take the surfaces to the next level.

“We had a demonstration and were really impressed, the main selling point being its ease of use,” said Rod.

“As volunteers any equipment needs to be simple to use and once I’ve set the adjustments on this ATT unit it almost looks after itself – my wife just walks with it.”

The INFiNi is used for daily mowing as well as in conjunction with the SMARTUltraGroomer cassette which uses over 80 carbide tipped blades to minimise puffiness in high density grasses and reduce Poa annua ingress.

When Rod first took charge of the grounds maintenance 3 years ago, the green was approximately 98% Poa. Since they’ve been using the INFiNi & UltraGroomer, normally once a week, this has now significantly reduced.

“The players are noticing the improvements to the speed of the rinks. Our surfaces were previously quite heavy to bowl on, you’d be lucky to get the jack to ¾ length whereas now the bowls are often in the ditch,” explains Rod.

Another consideration for Rod was the houses and flats that surround the club. “The ATT product is well known for its low pollution emissions thanks to being battery powered – and of course its quiet status means we can start much earlier than we previously could.”

In addition to the SMARTUltraGroomer, they’ve also got the SMARTSarel roller.

“This is superb too. It doesn’t damage the greens like most machines, it creates the holes and you don’t need to roll after as it leaves the green so smooth.

“Overall we’re both so impressed with the machine and the cassettes we have, we’ve had no problems whatsoever. The UltraGroomer especially has made a massive impact on the greens – it’s revolutionised our job.”

Get ready for winter with no cords

The EGO LB5300E blower shifts fallen leaves and other debris in seconds, preventing rot and keeping gardens looking tidy.

Weighing just 2.1kg, the lightweight blower has a compact design that provides a longer runtime, with low vibrations and variable speed controls, including a turbo boost mode that is more powerful than many petrol-powered blowers.

This efficiency and power is further enhanced by the turbo fan engineering, which has been inspired by aeronautics technology. It has a runtime of up to 150 minutes with a 5.0Ah battery.

EGO’s batteries are interchangeable across the range so only one needs to be purchased to get gardens tidied with both a blower and chainsaw. The CS1600E chainsaw has a

40cm length and a 13.5m/s chain speed, offering maximum levels of efficiency, safety, convenience and comfort.

The EGO Power+ chainsaw, will make up to 300 cuts of four inch by four inch softwood per charge of a 5.0Ah 56 volt EGO battery. The highly efficient brushless motor system gives a smooth cut and its weight balance means the chainsaw is light and easy to manoeuvre. It features an automatic shutdown for when it’s not in use, as well as an automatic lubrication system and innovative tool-free chain tensioning.

There is an easy to see oil level indicator on the tank and the D-shaped handle ensures easy manoeuvrability and maximum operator comfort and safety. Alongside its quiet operating, the chainsaw’s low vibration reduces

stress on limbs, cutting down on irritating muscle ache.

The EGO Power+ system is a breakthrough in every way, and has been designed to deliver a new level of cordless performance. In just forty minutes the 4.0Ah battery can

be fully recharged using the rapid charger, which is another first in the lawn and garden world. The entire EGO Power + range matches the performance of petrol products without the noise, fuss or fumes.

EGO Power + Enquiry 117

Grillo exhibit new out front mower

Grillo’s new model FD2200

TS is an outstanding machine which follows on from the very successful FD2200 which has proved to be an industry standard for cut & collect machines.This new machine shares the same proven design and wet grass collection of its smaller model but with the following upgrades.

There is a new 48hp direct injection Yanmar diesel engine with oil cooler and a huge revised 1400 ltr hi tip grass collector with raised discharge of 230cm. Other features include:

• Twin speed hydraulic grass turbine ( speed can be selected according to conditions)

• LCD display with selfdiagnostic function.

• Increased fuel tank capacity of 50 ltrs.

• New Bosch pump giving max road speed of 22 km/ph.

• Hydraulic tilting of the new 155cm deck for ease of maintenance.

• Hydraulic height of cut adjustment and comfortable Grammar seat with pneumatic suspension.

There are a number of other new modifications and to see this new model visit Grillo on stand EO 60 Hall 7.

Grillo

Enquiry 119

Lewis backhoe reaches new parts

Local authorities, parks gardens and cemeteries have problems digging holes and moving soil where accessibility is a problem.

The Lewis Equipment 320S backhoe has been designed and built for the professional user with the larger compact tractors. Typical uses include

golf course maintenance and cemetery work.

The 320S has a digging depth of 2·75 metres and with an extending dipper arm the reach is approximately 3·2 metres.

Unique features of the Lewis Backhoe range are that maintenance is minimal as no greasing of bushes is required as polymer IGUS bushes are used. Also, the design allows for quick and easy attachment and removal from the tractor.

Where the ground is hard through compaction or stones or where increased depth and lift capacity is needed Lewis Equipment recommend the 420S model.

Lewis Equipment Enquiry 121

Ford Transit continues to be the best-seller

Ford Transit was the best-selling cargo van family globally in 2015, with nearly 400,000 vans registered, based on IHS Markit registration data.

Transit is building on a 50-year legacy in Europe. In the past 25 months, Ford has seen its commercial vehicle market share grow from 10.8 per cent to 12.9 per cent in Europe.

This makes Ford the No. 1-selling commercial vehicle brand in Europe for the first time in 18 years, thanks to continued growing demand for its completely new and expanded Transit range – including Transit, Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Transit Courier – based on IHS Markit commercial vehicle registrations. Transit Custom sales in Europe grew 23 per cent to 89,800 units year-on-year during the first three-quarters of 2016, and Transit sales grew 17 per cent to 64,800 units during the same period.

Ford earlier this year introduced the new Transit and Transit Custom, powered by state-of-theart Ford EcoBlue diesel engine technology that delivers significant cost of ownership and performance benefits, with fuel efficiency improved by up to 13 per cent and low-end torque by 20 per cent.

Aberdour Golf Club, located in Fife on the northern shore of the Firth of Forth, Scotland, has seen a considerable improvement in the productivity of golf course maintenance procedures since investing in a range of machinery from Jacobsen.

The chosen machines were two GP400 mowers for greens and tees, with both 7 and 11 blade units, providing flexibility. Also chosen was an AR-3 for semirough, an AR722 for the rough, a Fairway 305, and an Iseki 5470 tractor with loader. Already in use on the course prior to the purchase of the Jacobsen package was a Spider II for the steep banks on holes 2, 4 and 8.

Ransomes Jacobsen

Increase productivity with Hinowa tracked mini-dumper

A leading south coast landscaping company finds that its tracked mini-dumper not only sets it apart from the competition - but substantially increases productivity.

Dorset Design & Build (DBB) invested in a Hinowa HS1100 stand-on mini-dumper in 2015 and has seen significant efficiency benefits ever since. The self-loading machine is regularly used for the major garden and landscaping projects that are DBB’s speciality.

The 850kg capacity HS1100 makes quick work of moving materials such as sand, gravel, earth, or shingle from one work site location to another. Less than 760mm wide, it is designed to pass through door or gateways, down the sides of properties, and to work in confined spaces.

As a tracked machine it has very low ground pressure, minimising impact to lawns and paved areas, while also delivering excellent

rough terrain capabilities. The hi-tip mast feature provides elevation of the dumper to enable tipping straight into skips or onto the flatbed of a van.

Hinowa produces a wide array of options, so that customers can tailor the machine to their specific requirements. Manual start or

Hinowa Enquiry 124

electric start Honda petrol or Yanmar diesel engines, fixed or hydraulically-widening tracks, oscillating undercarriage for extra traction

Kubota dealer expands across the South East

One of Kubota’s leading South East dealerships, Rod Gaskin Ltd, has unveiled its new West Sussex depot, expanding the reach of the Kubota Agricultural and Groundcare products across the South East.

The opening of the company’s new Haywards Heath facility was prompted by the arrival of Kubota’s latest M7001 Series tractors, which will be a key product in this new area. Alongside the M-Series tractors the depot will also offer the full range of Groundcare equipment completing the Kubota range.

Sussex offers a great opportunity to expand Kubota sales across the region, especially with M7001 Series and Rod Gaskin Ltd believes that with the comprehensive range of Kubota products now available they will place real focus and determination to ensure they achieve this expansion.

Tom Gaskin, Rod Gaskin Ltd Sales Director commented:

“Our business in Hampshire has always been evenly spread between Agriculture and

Groundcare product sales, but this depot will allow us to offer the full Kubota range to customers across the territory.

“There is already a lot of interest in the new M7001 Series tractors from customers in Sussex and we are keen to demonstrate the features to prospective customers. Kubota has a very strong reputation for reliability and robustness, particularly within its long established Groundcare range, and the latest M Series tractors will build on this. The fact that we already have many satisfied M Series customers is proof there is a growing demand for this range of products.”

Tom Gaskin will head up the new premises with support from a Parts Manager and a team of two Service Technicians, with additional backup from the company’s Hampshire base as required. Tom added: “The plan is to start off with a small team initially but as the business grows in Sussex we’ll look to take on more staff to better serve our expanding customer base.”

Kubota UK Enquiry 128

Vertas delivers professional service with Toro

Fast-growing facilities management provider Vertas Group Limited’s grounds division has invested in the adaptable Toro T4240 highoutput mower to deliver a “professional service” for its customers.

Vertas provide services to schools and businesses in Suffolk and across East Anglia and its grounds team, which primarily maintains sports fields for schools, football and rugby clubs, decided to make an addition to its shed when an old machine needed replacing.

Contracts manager Shaun Swan says: “We tried a variety of machines and preferred the Toro T4240 over competitor brands. We had to test the market, but

the T4240 really is the leading machine for what we want.”

It became clear to Shaun that the T4240 was perfect for the job when Toro UK distributor Reesink Turfcare loaned him a machine. “Our Reesink rep Danny was very helpful in sourcing a T4240 for us to use and we quickly saw the quality of finish needed across all our sites. The employees were all impressed; they found it comfortable and were more than happy to use it!”

Shaun speaks of just some of the many benefits of the T4240: “The machine’s portability makes life easier as you can piggy-back it onto a trailer to transport it from site to site. It’s very versatile too; it can cover a large area and

also be used in tricky, confined spaces as either a triple or fiveunit machine.”

One of the main reasons Shaun chose the T4240 is because it gives Vertas’ sites a top quality finish. He says: “The cutting cylinders float and follow contours producing a consistent and beautiful cut. As professionals we need to ensure we’re providing a professional

service to our customers – the Toro T4240 makes this easy.”

But it’s not just the initial acquisition of the machine, Shaun feels he can rely on Reesink’s aftercare service too: “With Reesink we know we can get parts easily and locally, meaning our Toro machines are never out of service for long.”

Have you ever seen a men at work sign with the wording hedge cutting on the road side, then gone around the corner only to find it’s a large tractor cutting the hedge, taking up hafe of the road.

Keeping safe in extreme conditions

Legislation says that there must be road signage, but why not one that fits the job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.workware.co.uk 01228 591091 | sales@workware.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY 130

Timberwolf launches new compact chipper

The ‘entry level’ Timberwolf has always been a huge seller.

For some it’s their first chipper; for some who only use them occasionally, or for lighter jobs, it’s a vital piece of their armoury. For others, it’s all they can tow on a normal license.

Whatever the reason for buying, these entry level compact chippers have always been hugely popular, hugely capable machines.

It uses the largest commercial V-twin that Honda produces and has a cutaway funnel top so you can get more in. It will chew up almost anything that’s thrown at it. But the real difference with this latest generation is in the detail.

There are a few tell-tale signs on the outside but the inside is where you’ll find the biggest changes. It now uses the same innovative blade access as the larger TW 230 and 280 models; the same heavy-duty steel feed-control paddles which are mounted on both sides of the infeed tray; and even the same ultra-tough M16 fixings attaching the new double

edged blades to the larger and heavier rotor.

For start-up arborists the TW 160PH is easy on the pocket, is lighter to tow – impacting less on your ability to transport woodchips or logs on your truck, but crucially it gets through the demands and rigours of your daily work schedule in double quick time.

In short, it’s the perfect machine for arborists, young drivers, garden maintenance, and all kinds of waste from thorny hedge prunings to waste brash. Its versatility makes it the ideal choice for plant and tool hire companies, too. Their wide range of customers will come back again and again.

Wiedenmann UK’s artificial fleet perfect for mixing and matching

said: “Dealers tell us that customers often like to choose both a brush and cleaner for their facilities; the mix and match approach seems to suit clients and their specific requirements.

“The Terra Groom and Terra Brush rejuvenate surfaces where the carpet grasses have started to fold or where pile heights vary because of constant play.

“Both machines firmly brush the artificial filaments back to standing position at the same time redistributing infill. The Terra Groom is lighter and comes with three rows of bristles while the Terra Brush is heavier and has four rows.

“The trailed Terra Rake loosens infill. It has four rows of spring tines which vibrate across the surface at speed. A weight relief kit means it can be set to accommodate different conditions.

“The three versions of the sweeper/ collector Terra Clean are all quite different. For those who have invested in global or international standard surfaces accredited by the likes of the FIH, FIFA or IRB there is a trend towards maintenance machinery that is both environmentally friendly and thorough.

“The Terra Clean 160 uses a cyclone filter to draw and

remove dust similar to that of trucks operating in sandy deserts. It uniquely combines a sieved separation system with a dust cyclone extraction system to filter and remove fine dust particles leaving a deep cleaned and groomed surface. It rids a pitch of much of its powdered rubber crumb and worn carpet fibre which prevents the playing surface being sealed and compacted by these fine particles.

“The Terra Clean 120 and 100 are multifunction sweeper/collectors which lift leaves, dirt and debris while cleverly returning only infill back to the surface. The bigger 120 has two versions, one which attaches via 3pt linkage or one which is trailed. The land driven, Terra Clean 100 can be towed behind a wide range of utility vehicles from 12 hp without the need for a PTO.

“As no hydraulics or electrics are required it is favoured by those clubs or organisations with a single or small number of pitches to maintain.”

Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 134

The all new SP-575X

The new SnowEx SP-575X is a highly versatile utility spreader which can be used in a variety of applications, thanks to the wide range of mounting brackets available for commercial vehicles and 4x4’s, utility vehicles, tractors, forklifts or trailer mounted for use behind an ATV.

With its 163 litre capacity and 12m spread width, it is designed to provide a highly cost-effective winter risk management system, featuring the unique SnowEx 12V maximum torque sealed drive unit, so there are no belts,

pulleys, sprockets or chains to break. It is fitted with a robust allweather cover, which provides a convenient solution for protecting the material from moisture, and all hoppers are made from noncorrosive heavy duty polythene.

The patented SnowEx vibrator keeps material flowing freely, while a powerful drive auger feeds spread material directly to the spinner, ensuring jams and blockages are kept to a minimum.

First new Bobcat 12m telehandler in Scotland

R & B Joinery of Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, has purchased Scotland’s first Bobcat T36120SL 12 m telehandler from Balgownie Ltd, the Authorised Bobcat and Doosan dealer for Aberdeenshire, Morayshire, Angus and for much of the Highlands and parts of Perthshire and Kinross-shire.

In the frame-levelling system on the Bobcat T36120SL telehandler, the front oscillating axle piloted by a hydraulic ram is used as a self-levelling device, providing +/- 6° relevelling up to a 50° boom angle and +/- 2° above the 50° boom angle.

In addition, thanks to the machine’s overall stability, and whatever the boom angle, the proportionally controlled hydraulic ram can be useful to side-shift when the machine is being used on wheels.

The easy-to-use compact stabilisers ensure that the machine’s full capabilities can

be used in the most confined working areas, with a minimal loss of reach when deploying the stabilisers. The narrow design of the stabilisers ensures the machine can be placed close to walls and operated in narrow spaces. Optimal steering capabilities, with minimum steering angles,

make the machine extremely manoeuvrable and easy to position at any job site, with a very short turning radius with no rear overhang.

The T36120SL is powered by the 74.5 kW (100 HP) Deutz Stage IIIB diesel engine, providing plenty of power and torque even

in the most difficult ground conditions. The T36120SL has a hydrostatic transmission offering a maximum travel speed of 30 km/h, complemented by an inching function for smooth driving and precise positioning.

Bobcat Enquiry 136

Timberwolf Enquiry 133

Wiedenmann UK’s artificial maintenance fleet now boasts six machines: the Terra Groom, the Terra Brush, the Terra Rake and the Terra Clean 100, 120 and 160.

A Wiedenmann UK spokesman

Wessex International Enquiry 135

Customers enjoy a cutting edge

Twose has enhanced its range of reach arm mowers with a series of major upgrades to improve performance, reach and precision.

All models in the TE, TF and TP series benefit from a reach increase of 0.5m – with the new TP-6750T model extending the maximum reach of the series to 6.7 metres.

One of the most important enhancements is the introduction of the new electric control system, which features an innovative twist grip that enhances reach arm precision, manoeuvrability and responsiveness.

Sturdy and robust and featuring an ergonomic joystick designed for comfort and practicality, the system delivers precise fingertip control of lift reach and head angle.

The new control system complements Twose’s proven cable and low pressure hydraulic controls which are still available. The system also features Electric Arm Float as standard, offering a new approach to

contour-following by constantly monitoring the weight of the head resting on the ground. This can be adjusted quickly and simply from the cab.

Enquiry 138

Browns Hire adds Noblat

build quality and simplicity of the machine. The tow-behind DR900, mounted on a fourwheel chassis, is available as standard with hydraulic controls and on/off belt switch. The wide smooth belt makes light work of the wettest sand as well as loams, compost and more. The hopper capacity is 900L flush.

Imported in the UK by AllezGrow Ltd, Noblat offer a wide range of dressers based on over 30 years’ experience. Starting at 400L capacity either as spin or drop spreader, Noblat also manufactures a range of slitters, scarifiers and rotary mowers.

139

GreenMech products spawn new company for HFC Hire Services

Established in 2014, HFC Hire Services provide plant and onsite accommodation hire in Exeter, Devon, Somerset and the South West.

When looking to expand their hire offering, Proprietor Col Bachmann explored the Arb market and settled on

GreenMech to supply a range of woodchippers.

Such is the success of the relationship with GreenMech, and the demand for the product, that Col has founded a partner company to HFC, Chipper Hire South West. The latest addition to Col’s fleet of chippers is an

ArbTrak 150, which he took delivery of in August.

The ArbTrak 150 has been designed to get to those hard to reach locations with the tracked chassis providing high ground clearance of 274mm. This allows easy access to sites over rough terrain and the 3kph tracking speed means the operator can get the job done quickly.

It’s 970 x 790mm in-feed chute allows for bushy brash reduction while then 150mm x 230mm letterbox-style infeed throat makes light work of heavily forked branches.

As standard, the ArbTrak 150 comes fitted with GreenMech’s patented disc-blade system which gives up to 150 hours of chipping before requiring re-sharpening.

GreenMech Enquiry 140

Deltrak is the right answer for INEX Works

Managing Director Alan Stevenson said: “We tested the Deltrak and it proved its value for our business in just twenty minutes. Capable of cutting at up to fifty degrees it dramatically improves operator safety and cut speed and quality have been a revelation.

“We had costed one job for three men, three days and two skips and the Deltrak did the work in three and a half hours with no skip. The mulching head is so efficient and effective we can cut up to thirteen km’s of overgrown pathway in a day and areas can be back to grass in just six weeks. It simply does what it says it does very efficiently.”

Twose

George Browns Ltd, one of the largest UK groundcare dealers, has added Noblat dressers to its hire division’s fleet.

“We’ve gone for the popular DR900 spin-dresser,” says Andy Loughtwell, Hire Division Manager, adding that their choice was made based on the

AllezGrow Enquiry

Following extensive product research Cumbernauld based contractors INEX Works have added a 38hp Kubota powered, Irus Deltrak remote control mower to their fleet.

Loxston Enquiry 141

Get more out of

stump cutter

The new RM27 multi-tool carrier from Rayco is the solution for hire shops and contractors seeking a compact stump cutter with versatility to operate multiple attachments.

This new operating platform can be used with a wide variety of landscape and environmental tools.

With hydraulic power output that rivals dedicated machines, the RM27 is equally as capable removing stumps as it is cutting a trench, cultivating, sweeping and mowing through overgrown brush.

Kubota RTV range offers versatility

Kubota UK RTV range – which includes the RTV-X900, RTV400, RTV500 and RTV1140 - delivers the perfect blend of power, versatility and functionality.

These robust machines are developed with industry-leading technology and built to take on any job or terrain, delivering excellent acceleration, optimum traction and unrivalled hill control,

thanks to Kubota’s advanced transmission technology.

The RTV-X900 and RTV1140 also boasts Kubota’s hydrostatic steering for responsive off-road driving and features selectable 2/4 wheel driving, for both onroad and off-road versatility.

Kubota UK Enquiry 146

Classen’s new steerable aerator takes the weight off

Classen has introduced a new compact aerator with a streamlined design that is exceptionally easy to manoeuvre and transport.

The Classen TA18 features a compact body and a steerable tine bank, making it highly productive for groundsmen, landscapers and homeowners.

With a width of just 27.2 inches (69cm) and length of 46 inch (116.8cm), the TA18 is the most compact aerator in its class, easily negotiating around trees, shrubs and tight spaces while aerating at speed.

The Honda GX-120 engine drives the aerator at up to 4.2mph (6.7kmh), allowing the operator to quickly aerate large, open areas, with easy to reach operation controls ensuring comfort and less fatigue. Five banks of tine wheels (compared to the usual four) combined with tight tine placement pull more holes for faster results and are another contribution to the machine’s productivity.

The Classen TA18’s even weight distribution provides ample coring ability in tough soils and stability on hills, slopes and

Campeys provide the machines for Trubshaw Cross Ladsandads

Campey Turf Care Systems has provided Trubshaw Cross Ladsandads with a number of turf care machines after they took over maintenance of their pitches from the local council. After attending a Campey pitch improvement event at Stafford

Rangers, Trubshaw Cross chairman Andy Salt became aware that a budget of £500 for 11 pitches wouldn’t be enough.

He and the club set about raising money for the new equipment whilst involving FA pitch

mentor Andy Jackson – head groundsman at Stoke City FC

“Andy Jackson suggested we spoke with Richard Campey of Campey Turf Care Systems, and we’d had other clubs recommend them to us as well, so we decided

inclines and the aerator features two ergonomically shaped, removable weights at the front and top of the unit.

Enquiry 145

to approach them,” said Andy Salt. “Richard came out and had a good look around the site and at the pitch, and from there we went on to buy the machinery.

“Even having the equipment for half of the last season made such a difference. We didn’t have games called off due to weather as many times as the other centres in our area, and we’ve been able to reduce that even more. We’ve seen an absolutely massive difference in the pitches.”

The 11 pitch site, based in Burslem, is one of nine Ladsandads branches that provide a place for youngsters to play football. Six different clubs in North Staffordshire consisting of 39 teams regard Trubshaw Cross as home, as well as the pitches being hired out to other teams, and such extensive use means high-quality pitches were needed to accommodate the matches.

Classen

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 147

Dennis S500 PLUS chosen by Trinity Hall

at the prescribed rate and brushed into the pockets.

“The main reason for purchasing the S500 PLUS was the ability to have a quick turnaround of the renovation of lawns,” explained Andrew.

Are you ready for winter?

Ideal for a range of applications, this dual -purpose machine has a 510mm (20”) operating width complete with interchangeable spiker and slotter reels.

The spiker reel punches through the ‘surface pan’ allowing air, water and fertiliser to penetrate the root zone, while the slotter reel creates ideal seed germination pockets thus reducing seed wastages. Using the optional seed box attachment will ensure grass seed is dropped onto the ground

“If we have a damaged area of lawn or an area that we need to thicken up, we can prepare it, slot it with the S500 PLUS, apply the seed, put on some topsoil and keep it irrigated. It just gives us the potential to get seed in the ground more quickly and more efficiently. We’ll also be using it on sportsfields such as football repair in goal mouth areas and any other over seeding.”

Dennis Enquiry 151

The new Gritex SHPE 1000 compact gritter from Gritex can be mounted on a range of donor vehicles or trailer mounted.

It has a low unit weight of 155Kgs and a capacity of 750 Kgs making a total gross weight of 905 Kgs fully loaded.

The SHPE 1000 gritter is electrically powered from the vehicle and has an in cab controller. This allows the operator to control the auger speed (density of grit) spinner speed (gritting width) and also

Details of new Fiat Fiorino announced

The FIAT Professional Fiorino, the original small van that established a new commercial vehicle segment, has been refreshed for 2016 to consolidate its market position and offer even more to the professional user.

The new Fiorino retains the compact dimensions that make it perfect for use in cities, agile in traffic and easy to park, without sacrificing any of its remarkable load capacity of up to 2.8 m3 or payload capacity of up to 660kg.

The evolution of the FIAT Professional Fiorino introduces some modern design touches,

inside and out, with new features that will propel it to the top of its class in terms of performance, running costs, comfort and functionality.

The new Fiorino retains its commodious, squared-off load compartment accessible thorough large rear doors that open to 180 degrees and have ergonomic vertical handles that are designed to be approached from either side and opened with minimal effortvery useful when the operator’s arms are full.

Fiat Professional Enquiry 152

New seed is sown at Acorn Hire

Acorn Hire of Staplehurst, Kent has broken with tradition and purchased a quintet of Volvo compact excavators from Volvo CE’s utility dealer - the Glosrose Group.

The new arrivals are part of a continuing investment plan in Mr Glenie’s plant and tool hire business and join a mix of small plant available for non-operated hire including site dumpers up to 3 tonnes, walk behind rollers, access platforms as well as a comprehensive range of scaffold towers. The ECR25D is the smallest zero swing model

the heavy duty vibrate motor (to prevent bridging).

The SHPE 1000 is manufactured by the American market leaders SaltDogg. It is constructed from heavy duty double walled polymer for great strength without a heavy unit weight, along with stainless steel

All the Gritex gritters benefit from a no quibble two year guarantee with all service parts on the shelf for next day delivery.

in the Volvo compact excavator range and is powered by a 1.1 litre low emission engine developing 21hp. The 2.7 tonne and slightly larger conventional Volvo EC27C is powered by a Volvo 1.6 litre low emission Stage III engine.

Both models feature simultaneous control of slew and offset movements provides faster, more precise performance and all hydraulic functions are performed in total independence for more control and less delay when handling multiple tasks.

Enquiry 153

Gritex

Andrew Myson – head gardener and facilities manager at Trinity Hall in Cambridge – has taken delivery of the Dennis S500 Plus dual-purpose machine which features both interchangeable spiker and slotter reels.

Volvo

Boningale expands vehicle fleet

Boningale has recently expanded its fleet of vehicles to facilitate growth plans for its expanding portfolio of commercial products and services.

These include Boningale GreenSky, the company’s award winning green roof division, and Worfield Plants who specialise in growing quality alpines and herbaceous perennial plants.

The plans also involve VIRIDIS, a brand new business that has recently been created to offer landscape designers a bespoke and professional plant sourcing service.

The three new vehicles include two 18 tonne delivery trucks, which will be used predominantly by Boningale Nurseries, GreenSky and Worfield Plants, and a smaller Ford Transit L3 350 for VIRIDIS’s premium plant delivery service.

Boningale Enquiry 156

Polaris Enquiry 158

Bolton home of Britain’s best

A Bolton garden has won a prestigious accolade thanks to its luscious lawn, that rivals any premiership pitch.

Keith Chuck, with the help of Danny Hibbert, has been announced as the winner of Britain’s Best Lawn 2016, a competition ran by the world’s largest petrol engine manufacturer for garden equipment, Briggs & Stratton.

Britain’s Best Lawn is now in its 12th year and Mr Chuck joins an elite collection of passionate lawnowners across the country who have received the award.

The Britain’s Best Lawn judges were incredibly impressed by Danny and Keith’s rigorous maintenance regime and hard work which has produced amazing stripes on a high quality and healthy lawn that is entirely weed free.

As well as the prestigious title, the prizes also include a Platinum Limited Edition Harrier 41 Autodrive lawnmower from Hayter lawnmowers, as well as a selection of lawncare tools from leading garden tool brand Wilkinson Sword, and a £150 voucher to spend in their local garden centre.

& Stratton Enquiry 157

Terex introduces new site dumper technology

Terex Construction, has announced that a duo of new technologies will be added as standard to all models across its market-leading range of Stage IIIB/Tier 4 final-compliant nine and ten-tonne site dumpers. Introduced earlier this year as part of a strategic trial to set new standards in the compact equipment marketplace, the technologies are proven to improve productivity, reduce maintenance requirements and deliver greater fuel economies.

Each state-of-the-art development has been designed to improve efficiency while delivering an excellent return on investment by lowering machine running costs.

Briggs

Terex Construction Enquiry 159

Dennis and SISIS to sponsor US Bowls Championships 2016

Dennis and SISIS sponsored the US Bowls Championships, held at Johnson Lawn Bowls Club in Sun City West, Arizona.

The British manufacturers have been a long-term supporter of the sport of bowls, frequently hosting bowling-green maintenance seminars, and proudly sponsored the 2015

Championships which was held in Long Beach, California.

With an extensive range of equipment designed specifically for bowling green maintenance, Dennis and SISIS products are the preferred choice for greenkeepers all over the world, and the greens at this years’ Championships, have been

prepared and maintained by two of two of their products. Johnson Lawn Bowls Club is a proud owner of two interchangeable cassette mowers in the FT range – the FT510 and the FT610, as well as the SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 self-propelled heavy duty scarifier.

Dennis

Enquiry 177

Amenity

Turf Science Live answers challenges

Over 150 of Ireland’s leading turf superintendents, groundsmen, agronomists and turf industry professionals attended the annual Turf Science Live event, held this year at the prestigious Carton House Golf Course and leisure facility at Maynooth, 30km west of Dublin. It was the biggest ever one-day Turf Science Live event

- organised by ICL and Syngenta, in association with Campey Turf Care Systems and Toro - and provided turf managers in Ireland with a unique on-course format to see and discuss the latest agronomy and practical

ICL Enquiry 178

Souters Sports sets the standard at Ibrox

David Roxburgh, head groundsman for Glasgow Rangers FC, has praised the work of specialist sports turf contractor Souters Sports, after they completed pre-season renovations on the famous pitch at Ibrox Stadium.

David has been head groundsman at Scottish giants Rangers FC for 30 years and has become one of the most respected figures in the world of groundsmanship.

Along with the club, he has been on somewhat of a roller coaster ride experiencing the highs and lows over the past few seasons, but one thing that has remained

constant is the quality of the pitch at Ibrox.

The Souters Sports team met with David earlier in the year, decided on the work that was to be done and picked an eight week window to proceed. Following the last game of the season, the Souters team got to work the very next day.

They started by stripping off the top 25mm of vegetation with a Koro Field Topmaker from Campey Turf Care, which required just two passes to take it all off. The team then cultivated and turned the pitch over before applying 150 tonnes of fresh

fi bre elastic material in order to bring the concentrate levels back up. Lime and pre-seed fertiliser was added as more cultivations ensued before stone raking was carried out. Souters Sports were in and out within eight days.

Sports Enquiry 179

Souters