Turf Matters November / December 2019

THE INTERNATIONAL AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE For all sports turf professionals in golf, football, rugby, cricket, tennis, horse racing, independent schools, universities and local authorities

November-December 2019 | £4.95

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Stadium of the future

MEET THE NEW CHAIR OF THE IOG

CRICKET GROUNDCARE WINNERS

28 David Carpenter

78 Here they are...

It’ s bu tha m t ti pe m rS ea A g in LTE ain si de X p – s re ee vi ou ew r

SA LT EX

Behind the scenes at the most expensive stadium in the world

’19

Welcome to Tottenham Hotspur

making turf matter

WELCOME

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iWelcome

See you in Birmingham Don’t forget Sport…

It hasn’t taken buthave the end ofaOctober, beginning ofpeople November, now The last two long months been nightmare for many in certain very much means Saltex. parts of the country and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with

the aftermath of unprecedented andguise devastating erosion.

Over the last four years the Show,flooding in its new at the NEC, has The best case scenario for many is months of temporary living.

For grown and developed into the superbly professional event that it is now. others, lives be willsonever return to what theyand were.

The IOG must proud that the difficult brave decisions they While the fate of sports grounds and golf clubs might seem made five or six years ago have proven to be so right. inconsequential in the face of such hardship, we at Turf Matters have a particular empathy with who hasisseen of yet agronomic One interesting element of everyone this year’s Show thatyears we are to find literally washed in theThese spaceare of ainteresting few weeks.times, outhusbandry if we “Brexit” while we areaway all there.

It must be hoped that banks – the financial institutions, not the indeed. things which edge overflown rivers – take an understanding approach We, at Turf facilities Matters, are delighted to be a Media Partnerloans for IOG to sporting which have been unable to service as a Saltex, if youbeing are looking to theand magazine forto the firstin time having resultand of them unplayable so unable bring revenue. plucked it out from bagthe you wereWinter given when you entered thesuch Show As we have seenthe with recent Olympics, sport has a – Hello! galvanising effect on society and can be the catalyst for so much good, that it is imperative sporting facilities are not forgotten when the This issue contains an in depth interview with Darren Baldwin, the promised assistance is being allocated. man charged with ensuring that the new Tottenham Hotspur On the issue of improving sporting facilities, weStadium, have been enjoys playinginvited surfaces to match their magnificent surroundings.

by Briggs & Stratton to become involved in its Pitch Darren is a veryto interesting guy andwhich he talked with a great depth about for Win competition, provides £3,000 makeover the new Stadiumwhat and his role within it. Under 18s football pitch in most is judged to be the need – find out more on pages 16-17. I am on the judging You can actually see the interview, broken down into bite size portions, panel and visits will be made to a shortlist of deserving on Turf Matters digital platforms. If you are interested, take a look at pitches soon. We will be looking not so much at the our Turf Matters YouTube channel.

DESSO but the desperate! a finalmany note, Iofam thrilled by the reception the I look forward toOn meeting you in Birmingham and if Ithat don’t first issue of Turf Matters received.

Many people have see you, and knowing this is the last issue before we enter taken to2019 say has howbeen much theyfor liked theare 2020, time I hope good youthe andlook thatofyou magazine and how they enjoyed set up for a successful 2020. the articles. We’re all pleased you found it to your liking and we will work hard to maintain the high standards. Thank you all very much.

Scott MacCallum, Editor Scott MacCallum, Editor

Distributed every two months to sports turf professionals, independent schools, universities, local authorities and buyers Distributed every two months to sports of turfcare machinery and products. turf professionals, local authorities and buyers ofMacCallum turfcare machinery and Editor: Scott products. scott@turfmatters.co.uk DesignScott and Production Editor: MacCallumEditor: Tim Moat tim@turfmatters.co.uk scott@turfmatters.co.uk Customer Manager: Design andRelations Production Editor: Tim Moat tim@turfmatters.co.uk Sinead Thacker sinead@turfmatters.co.uk Sales Manager: Pauline Thompson Sales Executive: To advertise in Turf Matters, Marie Anderson call Pauline on 07720 055676 or marie@turfmatters.co.uk email pauline@turfmatters.co.uk

To advertise in Turf Matters, To subscribe, go to call Sinead 07841 927500

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Turf Matters is published by Straight Down Turf MattersCommunications is published by Straight the Middle Ltd. Down the Middle Communications Ltd. All material © Turf Matters magazine 2019.

All material © Turf Matters magazine 2014.

Turf Matters was awarded Best Writing and No part of this may&be Best Design inpublication the 2019 Turf Ornamental reproduced in anyAssociation form whatsoever, Communicators Awards either for sale or not, without the written No part of this mayInformation be reproduced permission of publication the publisher. in any formin whatsoever, either for sale or contained Turf Matters is published not, without written of the in good faiththe and everypermission effort has been publisher.

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Inside Inside this thisissue issue News..........................................................4-17 News .........................................................4-15 Tea Break Teaser.......................................18 Pitch to Win........................................16-17 Tottenham Hotspur.........................20-27 Mowing .................................19-22, 24-27 New man at the ......................................29 helm....................28-29 Tea Break Teaser Coming up at SALTEX.....................29-33 Gleneagles..........................................30-35 Who to look ......................................36-41 out for........................34-62 BTME review Exhibitors’ list....................................64-69 Diary of a Golfing Nobody.................42 Groundcare awards........................78-79 As seen on Twitter..................................43 Buyers’ Guide.....................................80-81 Golfingout Nobody’s Blog..........................82 Check our website: Check out our website: www.turfmatters.co.uk

www.turfmatters.co.uk The majesty of Gleneagles, pages 30-35 Next magazine distributed 2 May FREEZING: Getting turf through the cold winter ahead, page 75 Next magazine distributed January 2020 Subscribe FREE to our e-zine: Details at www.turfmatters.co.uk

Turf Matters | March-April 2014 Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019| 3 |3

NEWS

jim buttar scoops twickenham ROLE WITH THE RFU The RFU has appointed Jim Buttar as Twickenham Stadium’s Head Groundsperson.

Jim has over 20 years’ experience in grounds maintenance.

He was Head Groundsman at Tottenham Hotspur’s White Hart Lane for 11 years and Deputy Head for three years during which time he was awarded the Institute of Groundmanship (IOG) Premier League Groundsman of the Year two years in a row.

He more recently worked as an International Sports Turf Development Manager for Pro Pitch. This role saw Jim provide consultancy to leading sports associations and organisations in the delivery of major events and tournaments including the UEFA Champions League Final in 2018 and 2019, the Euro 2020 host venue in Budapest plus the FIFA Club World Cup and Asian Cup 2019.

Jim brings a wealth of experience, particularly around new technologies and the effect of pitch surfaces on player performance and recovery. Jim will use his knowledge of pitch maintenance to support grassroots clubs via the Rugby Groundsmen network.

making turf matter

Toro machinery brings back the past to send golf club into the future Toro and Reesink Turfcare have signed Northamptonshire County Golf Club as a Toro Total Solutions customer.

The Midlands club has committed to Toro as it brings back the feel of its past with Toro machinery and thinks to the future with a Toro irrigation renovation.

Course Manager, Rob Hay, who has been at the club for five years says the reason behind the commitment is twofold.

“Over the years the course had been managed as a parkland course which it wasn’t designed to be. We’ve been working towards returning the course to its original heathland state as designed

by Harry Colt, opening up each hole and giving it a flavour of the old days. Toro machinery is key to that.

“This is our first fleet lease deal, but we’ve been using Toro since before I started, and Toro is instrumental in this vision taking shape. Toro has made a big impact and brought about noticeable change in the direction of the course’s

maintenance and members are seeing the difference.

“Many have commented on how the course now looks like they remember it from the early 1970s and plays with a true running heathland style from those days too, which we’re delighted to hear.”

When it comes to the irrigation, Rob believe that the club’s commitment to Toro is a nod to the future.

“We’re not in a predicament with our current system, but we’re forward planning so

PLUMPTON COLLEGE GEARS UP FOR THE NEXT GENERATION As the new academic year begins, Plumpton welcomes new members of staff, David Driver and Martin Sampson.

“I studied my City & Guilds at Plumpton College many years ago, and since then I have had a successful career in greenkeeping and horticulture, so it is great to return to where I started,” said David.

He joins as Programme

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Manager for Horticultural Apprentices and Head of Greenkeeping. His expertise will be invaluable to the Horticulture department, particularly his success in a vast and accredited career in land maintenance and greenkeeping.

David’s wide-ranging experience in maintenance, management, sales and manufacturing gives him

4 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

knowledge of both sides of the horticultural industry.

In addition, the college has appointed Martin Sampson who will be delivering classroombased greenkeeping and sports turf lecturers.

Martin has over a decade of experience of delivering high quality teaching learning and assessment that supports the industry. He is also working

as an end point assessor for the new gold greenkeeping and sports turf apprenticeships, this places Martin in the unique position of being able to provide his skills and expertise from their first lesson to students gaining their qualification.

we’re ready for a seamless transition when the time comes. What we noticed in the heatwave of last year was that there are areas that could be improved, more efficient and better managed.

“I’m conscious this is a big outlay – one of the biggest a course can make – and it’s important we get this right.

We’re currently working with Reesink and Adrian Motram to finalise the plans for what’s exactly needed.”

NEWS

making making turf matter turf matter www.turfmatters.co.uk

Chainsaw artist chases record Chainsaw artist Ian Murray is attempting to set a new world record by climbing the three highest peaks in the UK and creating wood sculptures at the top of each one by using a Pellenc Selion M12 chainsaw – all within 24 hours.

The purpose of the challenge is to raise money for the three charities that are close to Ian’s heart. As an exmilitary man he has decided to raise funds for the Royal British Legion (RBL), the Soldiers Charity (ABF) and the Blind Veterans.

Furthermore, Ian could not have a better team behind him as he attempts to conquer the Three Peaks Challenge as he will be joined by army veterans, soldiers who are still serving and junior soldiers from AFC Harrogate.

“It was always on my bucket list. When you are in business and find yourself sitting up at 2am in the morning doing paperwork, all kinds of crazy ideas come into your head.

FAIRWAY FIT FOR A KING – THANKS TO SEAWEED A range of Sherriff Amenity products have improved the overall health of the turf on the fairways at Hampton Court Palace Golf Club, according to Course Manager Richard Hill.

Richard has been at the Club, with its 18hole 6,513 yard, par 71 parkland course, since May 2008. He said: “This site is an absolute anomaly when it comes to rainfall. It can rain at the nearby Heathrow airport, it can rain on the M4 motorway but just not rain here at Hampton Court!” As a result, the lack of rainfall tends to apply more pressure on the fairways and Richard admits to embarking on a lengthy search to relieve some of the stress.

“The best results by far has been from Goemar seaweed and Excel wetting agent from Sherriff Amenity. When I first applied them, the fairways went from brown to green in just a week.”

Goemar is a high quality liquid seaweed harvested in Brittany.

6 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

So I thought let’s do this challenge with a twist!”

On leaving the army in 2002, Ian started a new career as a tree surgeon. However, after an accident, which saw him fall from a 60ft tree, he decided to use the skills he had gained with a chainsaw to pursue a new venture in wood carving.

In just 24 hours he will not only be climbing the UK’s three highest peaks but at the top of each he will be sculpting the Scottish Thistle on top of Ben Nevis, the English Rose on Scafell Pike and the Welsh Dragon at the top of Snowden. His tool of choice to create these sculptures is the Selion M12.

“It was imperative that the chainsaw I chose for this challenge was extremely lightweight. Originally I stripped down one of my old saws so it weighed just over 4.5 kg. I thought that was fairly light until I was talking to Jonathan Morris from

Morris Garden Machinery who told me about the Pellenc which weighed just 1.7 kg.

Well I thought that it would make my job a lot easier by carrying it while climbing.”

The Selion is a battery powered handheld chainsaw with a 1200-watt motor, a 6” cutting bar and weighs only 1.7kg. This compact, powerful chainsaw lends itself to a wide range of uses and facilitates the gentle

pruning work of shade trees, ornamental trees and robust hedges.

“I’ve used Pellenc equipment before and it was absolutely brilliant. The bonus of doing this challenge with the Selion M12 is that it also has the green factor.

There are no emissions, it is solar charged and it ticks all of the boxes when it comes to being environmentally friendly.”

SISIS heading to FSB 2019 SISIS will be exhibiting at FSB Cologne, Germany from 5-8 November, showcasing a range of turf maintenance equipment for synthetic surfaces.

Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to see a range of products.

The SISIS Brush-Pro is a rideon brushing system comprising a pair of mid mounted oscillating units and three rear mounted brush units that that have been specifically designed for maintaining synthetic surfaces.

The SISIS Osca 3 is a tractor mounted powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 metre working width and is equally effective when used on synthetic turf with sand or rubber infill. 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, leaving a consistent playing surface across the whole pitch.

The SISIS team will also be showcasing the Twinplay Towed Implement Frame (TIF) and the Flexicomb and straight brush.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 7

NEWS

POGO meter proves its worth With the Royal Norwich investing £15 million in its newly established 18-hole course at Weston Longville, on the outskirts of the Norfolk city, the cost of its Rigby Taylor POGO Pro soil and turf management meter pales into insignificance.

But, according to Estates Manager Peter Todd, the value of the benefits that POGO brings are priceless.

“POGO has been indispensable in helping us to establish and maintain these new greens at a level to create a benchmark golf facility in the region.”

Peter – who joined Royal Norwich in 2017 with a course construction pedigree that includes experience at Gleneagles and the London Golf Club – has an obvious biased opinion of the course sited a few miles from the club’s original home that was established in 1893 by, among others, Sir Jeremiah Colman, of Colman’s mustard fame.

The course has been over two years in construction and aside from Peter’s initial agronomy work, for instance, its creation has also involved collaborative discussions, and decisions, with

course Architect Ross McMurray, of European Golf Design, as well as course construction contractor M J Abbott and irrigation specialist Rain Bird.

After their deliberations, and the use of around 11,000 tonnes of sand to construct the tees, greens and bunkers – on a site characterised by a predominantly sandyloam profile - the result is a stunning 18-hole, 7,239-yards course that many will agree justifies Peter’s views.

The USGA greens are accompanied by a six-hole

academy course, constructed to the same exacting USGA standards, complemented by a 10-bay practice range, and there are restaurant areas and other ‘customer experience’ facilities that would not be out of place in a luxury leisure complex.

Peter’s enthusiasm for the potential of the site is also reflected in his views about POGO Pro and how the course – and its players – will benefit from the system’s ability to measure the most influential variables governing turf performance; moisture, salinity, canopy temperature, nutrition and turf stress/ disease, for example.

“Moisture management is critical on USGA greens so I needed a tool that would give me unquestionable and ultra-reliable data on the greens, which we gather daily.

POGO Pro gives me exactly that. Importantly, the system is not just about enabling us to establish and maintain consistent playing conditions.

It’s also about helping us to manage our water usage much more efficiently and we will see the real rewards

from that in the future.”

POGO Pro also connects remotely to any Apple or android device and its integrated GPS features include precise location, geospatial condition analysis, cup placements, sprinkler positioning and patterns, area measurement and custom mapping. Maps can also be created of the dry and wet areas, and graphs will show the history of each green (all greens) so that users can make informed decisions on watering and feeding programmes.

“The system is so userfriendly and its data collection ability is a powerful tool and has helped us establish these first-class greens, said Peter.

“While I fully expect that within a few years, using cloud-based technology, the data we collect will be able to be imported directly into the irrigation system – to enable us to automatically manipulate individual watering heads according to the specific ‘local’ irrigation needs – I am satisfied that POGO Pro has proved a major asset in helping establish a course that sets a new benchmark for golf in the region.”

Canaries benefit from new technology Norwich City Football Club is reaping the benefits of the latest Hunter Industries irrigation technology after new systems were installed at both the Carrow Road Stadium and the Club’s training ground.

The system, purchased through KAR UK – a distributor of Hunter Industries irrigation equipment – consists of a variety of G995, I-40 and I-80 rotary sprinklers, ICV valves, an ACC2 controller with Wi-Fi, a Roam remote and the ST1600 system for synthetic turf.

The Lotus Training Centre Grounds Supervisor, James Randell, explained that the new technology was much needed.

“We had to change our old irrigation system because 8 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

we just didn’t have enough stations. Previously we used to get by but when we launched the Lotus Academy there was no doubt about it that we needed to upgrade.

“We spoke with KAR UK about the situation and Mike McDonnell, KAR UK Sales Manager, came

to visit and advised on what would work best for us. The systems were installed in April last year and we’ve noticed some huge improvements.”

Engineered specifically for sports turf, the I-80 is built with a robust, dirt-tolerant gear drive that offers the highest

torque output of any rotor in the commercial sphere.

It also provides total top serviceability via its integrated, surface-mounted snap-ring for no-dig easy maintenance.

“We had 32 I-80s installed and they are phenomenal – the growth this year has been amazing,” said James With the I-80’s working wonders on the pitches at the training centre, James has also been blown away with the results from using the ACC2 controller which is ideal for delivering advanced water management to meet the demands of large-scale commercial projects and the Roam remote, which eliminates the need to go back and forth to the sprinkler controller.

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Rubber crumb issue moves forward, slowly...

Progress has not exactly been of the lightning quick variety and the “outcome” is shrouded in the usual technobabble, but recommendations for significantly lower acceptable levels of hydrocarbons in synthetic pitches and playgrounds have been made to the European Commission.

For those who have engaged in the issue, the full press release, below, will provide information which should be of interest...

The Committee for Socio-economic Analysis has adopted its final opinion supporting the proposal for restricting eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in granules and mulches used, for example, in synthetic turf pitches and playgrounds.

SEAC adopted its final opinion by simple majority, supporting the proposal by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment and following an earlier opinion by the Committee for Risk Assessment in June.

The restriction proposal lowers the total concentration limit of eight PAHs to 20 mg/kg (0.002% by weight).

The concentration limits for PAHs in mixtures supplied to the general public are currently set at 100 mg/kg or 1 000 mg/kg for each of the substances.

The PAHs all have been identified as causing cancer and the proposed concentration limits will be closer to the limit values for individual PAHs in articles supplied to the general public.

Currently, the levels of PAHs measured in granular infill material and mulches pose, at most, a very low level of concern. The aim of the proposed restriction is to ensure that the cancer risk from PAH exposure remains at a low level for those coming into contact (inhalation and skin contact) with the granules and mulches. This includes, for example, footballers, children playing on the pitches or

playgrounds and workers installing and maintaining such surfaces.

SEAC concluded that the proposed restriction is the most appropriate measure to control the risks posed by these substances, and that the measures proposed would be proportionate to the risk with limited economic impacts. The proposal does not affect existing fields but will ensure that the material used for maintaining (refilling) the fields is below the new limit.

The final opinion of SEAC will be published in the coming weeks.

Following SEAC’s adoption of its final opinion, the opinions of both RAC and SEAC will be forwarded to the European Commission. The Commission will consider if the conditions for the restriction are met, prepare a draft restriction measure to amend the REACH Restrictions list and submit this for an opinion to Member States in the REACH Committee.

The restriction proposal on PAHs concerns risks to human health from the substances present in the infill material of artificial turfs.

ECHA is also progressing with its proposal to restrict intentionally added microplastics which aims at reducing potential environmental risks. The granular infill material that is typically used in artificial turf pitches is understood to be an ‘intentionally-added microplastic’.

A public consultation ended in September, and the RAC and SEAC are finalising their opinions to aid the Commission’s decision making.

In the framework of the public consultation, further information has been requested specifically on the use of granular infill material in synthetic turf to assess the implications and the possible need for a derogation.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 9

NEWS

Using irrigation controllers to keep your system in check Bailoy Products has been designing and manufacturing irrigation controllers since the early 1980s and were one of the forerunners in decoder-based systems. Many will know and may still use their first controller the SC3000, along with the decoders, many of which are still working to this day.

In the mid-1990s, the GTI Gemini 2 wire and Trident 3 wire PC systems were released.

These were one of the first computer-based systems to be introduced to the irrigation market and sold exclusively until 2006 through a distribution agreement with TORO. In 2014, the company introduced the GTI-EC range of controllers allowing for a more economical installation for sites either on a tight budget or not requiring the level of control available from the PC systems. Available in two editions. The Pro is

a mid-range flow managed system and the Lite is a simpler sequence-based system.

As with all the products, they are backwards compatible with existing Bailoy manufactured decoders, solenoids and control cables so upgrading is much more cost effective and environmentally friendly than having to replace these components.

Since the introduction of the PC system in the 1990s, they have continually improved and added functions and features to both the PC and EC ranges but kept to the main core values of the products which is “simple to understand” and “simple to use”.

So, if an existing customer has an older GTI-PC system, upgraded software and controller firmware is available to bring they system up to date along with additional add-ons such as site mapping and remote control. If it is a SC3000 then it can upgrade to one of the EC controllers quickly and simply with an average installation completed in one day. These can also be installed with remote access software which allow control of irrigation from any location using an internet enabled device.

The company is often contacted when a PC-based system is not

working correctly, assuming the problem is the controller hardware or the software running it. Users tend to blame the irrigation controller when the system performs poorly because they perceive the software as the sophisticated means to ensure the best performance of the system is delivered.

What is often discovered is that the data entered into the system is the cause of the issue and not the controller or software. It often operates poorly because the data for each station was either not entered correctly when first installed or, for example, has not been kept up to date when sprinklers have been replaced with a different type or additional ones added.

So, if an irrigation system is underperforming the following questions should be asked.

• Have you replaced sprinklers that have a different flow and arc?

• Have you changed the nozzle sets?

• Have you added additional sprinklers or areas?

If the answer yes to any of these and the results are not as expected, then checking the data is correct is a good start point.

Understanding an irrigation system and the effects of making changes to it can be a complex subject but understanding the basic principles of irrigation systems it will go a long way to running, maintaining and updating a site to what is required and what is expected.

A great occasion John Deere hosted a group of industry journalists to the Solheim Cup at Gleneagles, where the PGA Centenary course had been magnificently prepared for the match

by Scott Fenwick, Craig Haldane, and their team using John Deere kit.

The group were royally looked after and attended two sessions of the Cup as well as a wonderful tour and dinner at the nearby Glenturret Distillery, in Crieff, where the group had the opportunity to play the bagpipes and took part in some highland dancing.

The occasion proved to be one of the sporting highlights of the year, male or female, with the destination 10 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

of the Cup coming down to the final putt of the entire week – an eight foot putt on the 18th green. As it turned out Suzanne Petterson’s nerve held firm and the putt disappeared giving Catriona Matthew’s European team a 14.5- 13.5 victory.

The aerial scenes of celebration highlighted the John Deere display of machinery, just a short distance from the 18th green and while the famous old company has its roots Stateside, everyone appreciated the fairytale nature of the European win.

Many thanks to everyone who made it possible for the UK press to be a part of such an occasion.

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Football’s ambition is quality pitches for all The Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation are ramping up efforts to improve the quality of grass pitches in England with the launch of the Football Foundation Groundskeeping Community app.

The new platform provides a resource of expert advice for grounds staff, enabling them to connect with peers, discover new tips and tricks and share advice on best industry practice. Users can seek guidance from the IOG’s Regional Pitch Advisors, who are available to answer questions and update members on changes to industry standards.

The system is entirely free to use and will feature regular new content, with videos from high-profile groundsmen and women, such as Wembley Stadium’s Karl Standley, case studies and the latest in groundskeeping techniques.

Developed in partnership with the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) and run through Hive Learning, the site represents the latest step of the Football Foundation’s Grass Pitch Programme, which aims to ensure every affiliated football fixture in England is played on a quality football pitch.

Geoff Webb, IOG CEO explained that it had been the culmination of over five years of work within their partnership with both the Football Foundation and The FA via the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme.

“It will complement the invaluable pitchmaintenance service that the Regional Pitch Advisors provide for volunteers at grassroots football clubs,” said Geoff.

For more information, go to http://thefa. hivelearning.com/groundskeeping.

Works wonders for Wolves Wolverhampton Wanderers FC have purchased seven Dennis PRO 34R rotary mowers and Deputy Head Groundsman Anthony Parker claims they have made a huge improvement to turf maintenance operations at both the Molineux Stadium and the club’s Sir Jack Hayward Training Ground.

Since the 2016 takeover by Fosun, a Chinese conglomerate and investment company, Wolves, one of the greatest names in early professional football and one of the first of the Football League’s 12 founder members, are back in the top division.

Impressing on their return to the Premier League, exciting times lie ahead after the Club finished in a very respectable seventh.

However, while it may well be the results on the pitch which are grabbing the headlines, improvements are also being made behind the scenes.

“It just all seemed to come together at the same time,” said Anthony. “The new owners arrived and more investment was available for equipment, the club were doing well and it just all went hand in hand.”

At a time when the Club was investing in new turf maintenance equipment the Dennis PRO 34R was launched and Anthony explained why the purchase of these new machines became the number one priority.

“We used to use six small rotary mowers which did a decent job but because of the additional

pitch lighting we purchased, we needed to take more staff off the rotaries in order to have more help putting the lighting rigs out during the winter months. When we saw the PRO 34R’s come to the marketplace, it just made complete sense to get a fleet of these in so we purchased four for the training ground and three for the stadium.”

The Dennis PRO 34R is a 34” rotary mower which has been designed to help groundsmen achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface.

Since its launch in 2018 the PRO 34R has received rave reviews with many groundsmen praising the machine and the speed of its operation.

“It is great when you leave the stadium after a match-day knowing everything has been done and everything is clean – it certainly helps me sleep easily!”

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 11

NEWS

making turf matter

Biochar companies join forces to increase their market share Biochar companies Carbon Gold and Carbofex have signed an Memorandum of Understanding to establish a commercial agreement that will strengthen both companies’ position in the UK and European markets.

Carbon Gold, the world leading supplier of biochar to commercial crop growers, tree care specialists and sports turf professionals in the UK and Europe, has partnered with Finlandbased Carbofex, industrialscale biochar manufacturer with proprietary technology

that allows for the production of very pure (low PAH) and active (600 m3/g) biochar, certified by the EBC and with access to the PURO carbon trading platform. The collaboration will see Carbon Gold and Carbofex agree terms on the production and distribution of biochar, the ownership of the resulting carbon credits, and other potential synergies or commercial opportunities which may benefit both companies.

“We’ve long been friendly with Carbofex and this

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Simon Manley and Sampo Tukianen at the 2019 IBI Biochar Study Tour in Finland

partnership comes at a really critical time for both companies. We’re both looking for investment to scale up, and this joint venture makes us more attractive to potential strategic investment partners,” said Simon Manley, CEO of Carbon Gold.

“And with a no-deal Brexit becoming ever more likely, having manufacturing bases in the UK and mainland Europe is invaluable for both parties. Carbofex is a trail blazer in Europe and we’re thrilled to be working with

them more formally.”

Sampo Tukianen, CEO of Carbofex, added that they would both gain access to new markets as a result of the collaboration.

“Carbon Gold is the leader in biochar and Carbofex will benefit greatly from the products, science, branding and market reach they’ve established over the years.

And our EBC certification and registration with PURO for carbon trading brings new routes to market for Carbon Gold.

“It’s very exciting.”

making turf matter

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MM60 superior for Stoke City FC

When Andy Jackson, Grounds Manager at Stoke City FC, trialled a number of different seed mixtures eight years ago, he felt that there was one in particular which was far superior and that was Limagrain UK’s MM60.

From apprentice to Grounds Manager, Andy Jackson has been at Stoke City FC throughout his entire career. Arguably there is not one person who knows the stadium and training ground better and there is certainly no-one better placed to know what the pitches need in order to thrive.

“We like to think of the pitches like athletes so they need the correct nutrients to perform while I like to think that it is a case of our pitches going to see the doctor or the nutritionist every day,” said Andy.

Andy oversees the maintenance of the pitch at the bet365 Stadium and all of the facilities at Clayton Wood, Stoke City FC’s Training Ground and Academy, which includes a further 11 natural pitches. The facility hosts club players from the first team all the way down to Under 9’s and sees approximately 120 players through the door every day.

It is safe to say that the pitches experience a lot of usage and eight years ago Andy decided to trial a number of new grass seed mixtures.

“We trialled MM60 eight years ago at the training ground and were very happy with what we saw,” he said.

“I felt that the MM seed was far superior

to the other brands we were using and since then we have been 100% MM60 over both sites and that’s from renovation to overseeding throughout the winter.”

Limagrain’s MM60 grass seed is renowned for producing an excellent playing surface. It is a 100% Ryegrass formula which is perfect for renovation and divot repair, has a high disease resistance, fantastic aesthetic qualities and offers extremely fast germination – which is boosted by the inclusion of Headstart GOLD. MM60 now includes Limagrain’s new Ryegrass cultivar Annecy which has outstanding disease resistance particularly against Leaf Spot, something which particularly struck a chord with Andy.

“We used to have quite a lot of Leaf Spot which is quite common in Ryegrass situations in stadiums and training grounds.

I believe that the MM60 seed has helped us to cut that out by at least 60%.”

At the Academy, Andy and his team will start renovations around mid-April and at the stadium they will typically start in June.

After sowing MM60 during renovations Andy claims that the first cut will be carried out normally 11 days after the seed has been applied. When it comes to overseeding in winter, Andy will apply three to four bags of MM60 after every home game.

“We still get great germination from the seed throughout the winter,” said Andy.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 13

NEWS

NEWS

Machinery at the touch of a button We live in an age where we can carry out any amount of business from a laptop, tablet, even a phone. Where once we had to engage the services of an advisor or expert we can now do what we need do from the comfort of our own sofa, or from the layby of a busy road.

Our fine industry has long been regarded as traditional – loving the personal touch of a sales rep we’ve know for years and the strangely comforting pleasure derived from kicking a tyre or two – but it is not adverse to dabbling with the modern age.

Thanks to a new company we too have the option to purchase high quality used machinery by the touch of a button.

Grass Plant has been set up by Martin Guy, a sports and amenity turf industry entrepreneur of over 30 years standing, to enable machinery dealers to offer their used machinery to end users and potential customers in a similar manner to that of Auto Trader, in the domestic vehicle market.

“Grass Plant has come about following my work with another of my companies – Martin Guy Developments. I’ve operated and owned golf courses for many years so contracting has been a big part of the business,” said Martin.

“With contracting comes

a lot of equipment and at any one time we can be holding in in excess of £1.5 million worth of machinery because of the nature of work that we do.”

Having such a stock of machinery means that Martin spends a lot of time with machinery sales people and he began to realise that as an end user, and someone who buys and sells himself he saw the benefits of an on-line trading platform for used machinery.

“Grass Plant was formed as a company four years ago with this concept in mind but the website to enable it to work didn’t come to fruition until the start of this year. I wanted to make sure that the website was completely correct and fit for purpose but now it is set, it is evolving and moving and people are beginning to subscribe to it.”

The business model does

Our industry may well be traditional but thanks to Grass Plant it does not stop us from enjoying the benefits of the 21st century!

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work on a subscription basis.

If a dealer has a number of machines to sell he will be given a flat rate for them to be advertised on the site and the dealer can put whatever they like onto the site and remove or refresh at will.

“The end user then can see what is available and have a choice of what machine they are looking for. There might be a three old version of the machine with a lot of hours on the clock they want of a five year old version with fewer, so the potential customer can see what is their best fit,” explained Martin, adding that 99% of his current clients are main machinery dealers.

“They are selling new and buying it back and need an outlet for what comes back in. It’s not uncommon for a mainline dealer to be sitting on £1 million worth of used stock.”

With the current uncertainty in the economy well maintained used machinery is particularly attractive while the concept of machinery packages being leased to clubs ensures that there is a ready supply of machines, well maintained, after three or five years which the dealer

then has to move on.

Martin, through Martin Guy Developments, currently maintains six golf courses, 23 football pitches and five cricket grounds so the company is also a first hand end user of an array of machinery.

“As Grass Plant develops we are going to start reviewing equipment as well. We will be giving full warts and all trials so potential purchasers can see what us, an a contractor, feels about the machine,” revealed Martin.

With everything now in place and the website tried and tested, Saltex will be the opportunity for Grass Plant to raise general awareness within the industry.

“Our on-line digital figures are going up and up, doubling and trebling month on month and our social media profile is growing to. Saltex will be important to us, as will BTME while January, February and March are the key months for machinery purchase.”

Our industry may well be traditional but thanks to Grass Plant it does not stop us from enjoying the benefits of the 21st century! n https://grassplant.co.uk

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Ransomes Jacobsen welcomes 12 new engineering apprentices Ransomes Jacobsen has added 12 new engineering trainees to their successful apprenticeship scheme.

The programme is now into its seventh year with 27 local apprentices working through the craft, welding and technical areas of the manufacturing process.

Passing on the knowledge of their current employees to a new generation is the core of the scheme. Nationwide, it is well known that there is a skills shortage in engineering due to a reduction in large scale manufacturing businesses, with only a small number remaining that use the same core skills as Ransomes.

Simon Rainger, Operations Director at Ransomes Jacobsen, views the

scheme as a long-term commitment to manufacturing in Ipswich.

“We’ve been manufacturing in Ipswich for 187 years and we’ve always employed local people, and we want to continue that with younger generations,” said Simon.

“We need to develop future experts by learning from our current staff, and that gives young people the chance to learn a valuable skill and build a career within Ransomes where they are highly valued team members.

“The apprentices are very well received in their work areas, and their rate of learning is a direct result of the one on one time they spend with trained staff. They are regarded as essential staff members, and there is no differentiation because they’re apprentices.”

Energy snaps up more Gators Leading event equipment supply company Energy Generator Hire Limited, based in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has added a record beating 51 John Deere Gator 4x4 utility vehicles to its UK hire fleet, which now numbers in excess of 170 units.

Supplied by Farol Limited of Milton Common near Thame in Oxfordshire and supported by John Deere Financial, the purchase of the XUV 855D two-seater models was already the largest single order for Gators in the UK, before they were joined shortly afterwards by another 12 S4 four-seater versions to keep up with customer demand.

Energy Generator Hire was established in 2004 with just one generator by owner and managing director Tom Carr, who identified a market opportunity to offer a one stop shop, full turnkey service to the events industry.

The company now specialises in short, medium and long term hire of power and generation equipment to various industry sectors, including events, construction, motor racing and, in the near future, the equestrian market.

Energy will also be venturing into the electric vehicles sector in line with its sustainability and environmental policies.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 15

ESTATE MANAGEMENT

Turf renovation with Toro – making estate management easier than ever Toro’s range of turf renovation tools offers intuitive solutions for estate management professionals to aid the day to day management of a multitude of sites. With two new products recently added to the range, groundskeepers have more choice than ever when tending estates.

The first of the new models launched as part of the Toro turf renovation range is the 51cm Hydraulic Slit/Seeder.

Lightweight and, durable, this easy to use tool handles like a self-propelled push mower and will provide the user with an easy driving experience. With an adjustable seed flow rate, operators

can adjust while on the go, for different applications and various seed types.

The large 18kg capacity seed mixer can regulate seed delivery and evenly apply seed, depending on the ground speed, therefore boosting the productivity and effectiveness of the user’s time.

The next new addition to Toro’s turf renovation tool range is the 61cm Stand-On Aerator. The new Aerator features functions including the Smart Hour Meter, maximum-depth lockout, as well as maintenance reminders and time activation lockouts allowing for easy and efficient aeration of any turf.

The platform and cushioned panel will help to reduce operator.

The engine and various other components are

easily accessed for quick and simple maintenance, providing maximum convenience while saving time.

Also available in the Toro turf renovation arsenal is the Power Broom, which can be used all year round to clear snow, debris and can also dethatch turf. With the help of patented commercial power steering, the Power Broom offers effortless manoeuvrability with just the pull of a trigger. Operators are able to customise the speed of the Broom while on the fly with six forward and two reverse settings available. The broom’s angle can easily be adjusted by up to 20 degrees in either direction with the user-friendly thumb latch, simply press and angle. The height of the broom can be fine-tuned in increments

Half price financial incentive to switch to Aspen alkylate Businesses in the UK are switching over to Aspen alkylate petrol to power their tools at work.

To make the switch even more of a no brainer, the company is offering a special 50% discount on the Aspen fuel storage box to any new businesses which decides to switch over to Aspen at Saltex 2019 and subsequently place their first order within one month.

Benefits of switching to Aspen fuel: • Improved working environment for your staff by reducing toxic emissions.

• Less machine down time due to breakdowns • Machines last longer and are easier to service • Premixed 2-stroke version 16 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

eliminates the risk of mixing errors or accidents • Easy for operators to select the correct fuel and avoid costly mixing errors • Long shelf life allows for fuel to be left in machines for long periods of storage without any damage occurring to the fuel system.

• Free deliveries directly to your premises – no downtime travelling to collect fuel • Simplified accounting with fewer receipts • Easy to monitor fuel consumption and factor into job costs The storage box on offer usually sells at £250+VAT. To take advantage of this offer, speak to the team on the Aspen fuel stand (M055) at Saltex 2019.

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groundskeepers NOW have more choice than ever when tending estates as little as 3mm in order to minimise any damage to the surface while reducing brush wear.

The Brush Cutter BRC-28 is the final product highlighted in Toro’s turf renovation range of products. Estate managers will find this tool especially beneficial as the Brush Cutter works to level any brush, tall weeds, saplings and heavy vegetation. With electric start, larger fuel tank capacity and the 71cm cutting deck as standard, this cutter aims to increase overall productivity and efficiency. The pivoting deck combined with the flail blade ensures easy manoeuvring and increased cutting performance – useful for groundsman when dealing with tough areas of their estates.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 17

TEA BREAk TEASER

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Tea Break Teaser u o y o d t a Wh r e b m e rem about the SPORTING YEAR?

1. Who scored the England try to snatch the remarkable draw with Scotland at Twickenham?

2. Who scored the goal with clinched the win for Liverpool in their Champions League semi final with Barcelona?

3. Who won the Grand National this year, being the first to win back to back since Red Rum? 4. Who was Jamie Murray’s partner when he won this year’s US Open Mixed Doubles?

5. How many balls did Jack Leach for his one run in support of Ben Stokes at Headingley?

6. Which three clubs were relegated from the English Premiership this year?

7. How many runs did England score in the Super Over to win the Cricket World Cup 8. By how many shots did Shane Lowry win this year’s Open at Royal Portrush?

9. Who was the Six Nations Player of the Championship this year?

10. Name the horse which won the 2019 Derby.

11. Who won the Women’s Singles title at Wimbledon this year?

12. Who won this year’s Tour de France?

13. Who are the current NBA Champions?

14. What was the result of this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup final?

15. To the nearest 15 minutes how long was this year’s Men’s Singles final at Wimbledon?

Answers on page 81

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TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

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Scott MacCallum travelled to north London to talk with Darren Baldwin about the fantastic new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 21

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

“It started out as a 60,000 seater bowl and progressed with options and revised visions before it became a multitude of different challenges to overcome.

The word that was never to be used… was ‘No’. What was always said was ‘How can we make it happen?’.”

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A

sk Darren Baldwin about some of the technical innovation contained within the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and his answer brings a smile to the face of many of a certain age.

“It’s very much Thunderbirds stuff, if I’m honest,” explained the man who has seen it all during his 23 years as Head of Playing Surfaces and Estates at the club.

Those of us who can remember the booming countdown voice of the Thunderbirds narrator not to mention the wobbly puppetry, will immediately know where he is coming from. Floors sliding open to release International Rescue vehicles from the Tracy Island headquarters, each piloted by a member of the Tracy family.

I’m not sure if Darren sees himself as any one member of the cast, but given what he has to deal with in terms of the above and below the pitch

technology, he could quite easily stand in for Brains, but minus the big glasses!

To replace the Tarkett PlayMaster surface, which Spurs play their matches on, with the artificial Turf Nation pitch for the NFL matches, which will be regular features at the 62,062 capacity stadium, the natural pitch is split into sections, slides out and parked in what is otherwise a car park under the stadium, where the LED grow lights, fans and irrigation ensures it thrives in its unfamiliar temporary environment.

The NFL pitch is therefore revealed to create a perfect theatre for a sport which is becoming increasingly popular on this side of the pond.

The NFL pitch is six feet lower than its natural turf brother, meaning those in the first few rows of the stadium can see the play over the plethora of six foot five tight ends and line backers, coaches, physios etc who spend so

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Darren with former Spurs players Stephen Carr and Robbie Keane before a Legends match in March

much of their time on the touchline.

That is just an example of what goes on at what must be currently the most talked about stadium in the world of sport, never mind the UK. Talking to Darren, as we stood level with the halfway line, mid-way up one of the fabulous and imposing stands, you can feel the pride and sense of achievement which he, along with everyone involved in Spurs, feels.

The initial vision for a replacement for the old White Hart Lane, with its capacity of 36,284, came with the arrival of the new Chairman, Daniel Levy, way back in 2001.

“He had a vision that we needed to improve facilities, both for the fans and the players, so he looked at everything from the stadium to the training ground. We also needed to increase capacity to be in the 60,000 plus bracket alongside other top

European clubs,” recalled Darren.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have been here that long so I have also lived that dream from day one, following it through to where we are today.”

It’s fair to say that any vision, no matter how “Blue Sky” would not have come close to living up to reality of what the stadium eventually became.

“It started out as a 60,000 seater bowl and progressed with options and revised visions before it became a multitude of different challenges to overcome. The word that was never to be used in any environment whether that be in the Board Room or on the construction site was ‘No’. What was always said was ‘How can we make it happen?’.”

With Darren’s focus on the playing surfaces, that positive approach was never tested more than the day when a Concert Consultant explained that

to put on a full scale concert he would need the venue for 10 days, meaning that Darren’s pitch would have to be parked up under the stadium for all that time. At that time even the best case scenario was that a pitch could only survive under those circumstances for a maximum of three days.

“After picking me up off the floor we went back to work to find a way of parking the pitch for 10 days and now, having done extensive testing, and thanks to our friends at SGL lighting, we can park the pitch in the Pitch Pocket for 14 to 15 days,” explained Darren, who worked closely with Julian Franklin, Head of Horticulture and Controlled Environments, at Rothamsted Research, on maintaining turf in the dark.

As a man who grew up looking after turf, being heavily involved in the concrete and steel of a major } Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 23

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

“I’d be in some meetings looking at plans and talking to senior engineers and all I’d want to know is what button to push to make it work.” } stadium meant that Darren was

well out of his comfort zone.

“To be honest, I’d be in some of the meetings looking at plans and talking to senior engineers and all I’d want to know is what button to push to make it work. It was mind blowing science.

But it has given me a great insight into what goes on in an engineer’s world, as well as the groundsman’s world.

It was also important that they knew and understood what we wanted from a turf maintenance perspective and how we wanted things to work.”

The air systems, vacuum systems, undersoil heating were all areas in which Darren could make sure what he and his team would be working with over the next few seasons was the best it could be and that any potential issues were ironed out before they had a chance to become a problem.

“What we have with the natural pitch is a series of trays containing 500mm of pitch build suspended three feet off the ground. We did a lot of vibration testing because what we couldn’t have was a situation where we had seven or eight players jump at a corner, all land at the same time and have the pitch vibrate.

We’d be known as the Wobbly Pitch!”

The work done with SGL has been equally state-of-the-art and seen grow lighting taken to a new level at the stadium.

“A lot of design went into the wheeled rigs and, based on the experiences we had with lighting rigs we worked on the things which we felt could be improved. For example, lugging cables back and forward and having cables lying or suspended above the grass. Our system now has about five metres of cable which connects to the main power supply on the perimeter wall and that’s it.

No part of the six trusses we have touch the grass – they span the width of the playing surface and operate on tracks to move up and down the pitch. We wanted the option to raise }

24 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

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TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

It is probably currently the most expensive stadium iN the world... £1billion has not been denied } them so we could work underneath

Pictured above: Behind the scenes

the lights while we also wanted the ability to irrigate from above them.

“In the past we’d have occasions when the lights were operating, and the irrigation has come on. Sodium bulbs don’t like the eight bar pressure of a sprinkler hitting them and they tend to shatter. So now we have an irrigation system built into the top of the trusses,” said Darren, of the trusses which are stored under the pitch when not in use.

Truly Thunderbirds indeed!

Darren also ensured that the stadium had sufficient space for the machinery and equipment required to maintain the pitch.

“With the new stadium we had one chance to be the kid in the sweet shop and get what we wanted and although there wasn’t a bottomless pit of money, by any stretch, we did look at what we wanted and have the machinery to carry out the job. We’ve got a mix between electric and petrol mowers – ATT on electric and Dennis Premiers for the petrol. We use the

26 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

electric ones most of the week and the petrol for the last cut before a game to get the defining pattern, with that little more weight, for the finish.

“We also have storage space for the SGL lights, the fans and the mists, which we needed last summer when when it was 42 degrees pitch side. It was absolutely scorching and rye grass doesn’t like it that hot.”

The desire, and “can do” attitude at Spurs, does come with a downside, however, and that came in delays and a mind-boggling final bill for the stadium – it is probably currently the most expensive stadium in the world – a reported figure in excess of an eyewatering £1 billion is not denied.

“It took three and a half years to build and we ended up eight months late on our target date. That was frustrating for everyone, none more so than those of us at the sharp end. But it was important that we got it right.”

During that period the team played their home games at Wembley, so the team didn’t have the rush or

routine of match day preparation.

“I worked at Wembley on match days for the first year and also sent two guys to Wembley full time to work with the maintenance team there. It was a bit different for Karl (Stanley) and his team as they were having to deal with us as well as the international teams.”

The big day came on April 3rd with the first match – against Crystal Palace.

“I’ve been asked many times about my emotions on that first match day, and indeed, the whole project and I say ‘Give me an emotion – I’ve had it’. Excitement, nervousness, stress, worry, lack of sleep. I’ve had them all.”

On that first matchday, with the opening ceremony and the fireworks, it was a fabulous launch to the new Spurs era but Darren remembers one particular element of the day.

“We had a hail storm an hour before kick-off and the whole pitch was white – on April 3rd! I told the guys that we were going to need blowers and snow brushes, but we didn’t know where they were stored,” smiled Darren, as

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he recalled the bizarre situation.

As we stood in the most modernistic stadium in the world it was a good time to find out what brought Darren, a two-time Groundsman of the Year, to the industry in the first place.

“I started out as a three year-old on my dad’s lap ‘steering’ a Land Rover and trailing three sets of gang mowers at Buckhurst Hill Football Club in the mid 70s. About 10 years’ later, like most groundsmen at some stage or another, my dad got the hump when the team started training in the goal area. He threw down the keys and walked off. I picked them up and, at the age of 13, carried on looking after the pitch from then on.

“In October 1988 Steve Braddock gave me the chance to do three weeks’ work experience at Arsenal and he then took me on full time in 1990. I owe everything to Steve and I know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. He gave me six great years before I got the phone call and asked if I’d be interested in coming here – one of

the less publicised transfers between the two north London clubs!”

Without wishing to make him sound like a reality show contestant, it has been a “journey” for Darren and one which he has embraced since he arrived in 1996.

“Back then the club had just opened the training ground at Chigwell and it was regarded as a state-of-the-art training ground although there was no lights or running water in the grounds maintenance facility. Now we have our fantastic new training ground at Enfield with aspirations to expand it to take on Tottenham Hotspur Women, who have turned full time professional this season.

“What really scares me, given how far we have come in 23 years, is what the industry will look like in 23 years from now.”

Who knows what life will be like for ground staff, or anyone else for that matter, in 2042. Safe to say Thunderbirds will remain a fond memory for a diminishing few.

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Watch Scott’s interview with Darren on the Turf Matters YouTube channel Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 27

SALTEX

New man at the helm The new Chair of the IOG is a man who is a believer in evolution not revolution and, such has been the strides taken by the Institute on the recent past, you can be sure that there wouldn’t be a need for any U turns or radical changes in approach under his stewardship.

David Carpenter has been a member of the IOG Board for nine years and played a key part in the move of Saltex from Windsor Racecourse north to the NEC in Birmingham and he has seen levels of professionalism across the board increase during his time involved.

“I certainly don’t think that I need to take anything by the scruff of the neck.

I have every confidence in the rest of the Board and the Executive team and we have been working together as a group extremely well,” explained David, who can call on his vast and relevant experience from working for the Sports Council and the Lottery Fund.

“I’m not suddenly going to change direction unless there is good reason to do so.”

That is not to say that David, who took over the reins from David Teasdale, is going to be passive. He is a deep thinker on the subject of groundsmanship and the issues that are inherent in an industry which rarely gets the credit it deserves.

“I am concerned about the lack of new people coming into the industry, both as volunteers and professionals and I’d certainly like to see more young people entering the profession.

I’d also like to see more women in grounds management and I’d like to see more black and ethnic minorities represented in our profession.

“Such is the lack of level of entry, we can’t afford to not have half the population as potential ground staff,” he said.

He is not overly concerned with the elite side of the industry in terms of surface quality, after all we have many of the finest grounds managers in the world. But at the community end of the industry which impacts most on the greatest number of people there are real issues that must be addressed.

GanTIP has already conclusively identified that natural pitches are not in good condition at community level but already Jason and his team have tackled and improved nearly 28 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

“I’d certainly like to see more young people entering the profession. I’d also like to see more women in grounds management and I’d like to see more black and ethnic minorities represented in our profession.”

4,000 community football pitches.

They are doing a great job.

“I do see a scenario where community facilities could actually get worse before they get better. Local authorities are not recruiting and we have to find other routes into the profession. A lot of the volunteers we do have are older people and they are not going to be around forever and we need new younger people to work alongside and eventually take over,” “We also know that with a little more investment there is an opportunity to make significant improvement.”

On education and professional development David has some interesting views.

“It strikes me that grounds management is where sports coaching was 20 years ago. Then there was no structured pathway for coaching and coaching appointments were very random, particularly outside of perhaps football and cricket.

“The status of the coach was really quite low. As a result of a more structured approach and clear pathways that status is much higher and coaches now receive much more respect. I think that is possible for grounds management if we are able improve the pathway quite significantly.”

One of the ways in which this could be achieved is an education process for operations managers, such as Contract Managers, Bursars and Arena Managers, who are ultimately responsible for grounds management.

“I think this process will take much longer than my time as Chair but it

is a very important aspect and one which requires significant input. It is ridiculous that so many sports rely on good surfaces yet groundsmen and women don’t have the same parallel standing as those carrying out other functions within the organisation.”

He does have another interesting idea, which he stresses is his own and not IOG policy.

“I’d like to see education for the volunteer side of the industry available on a free of charge basis. Obviously that would require sponsorship support and we would have to go to the respective sports councils or sport governing bodies to agree volunteer programmes but I do think it is something worth exploring.”

David is also well aware of the change to the role of many groundsmen and women at that elite end.

“Groudscare managers now have to be so flexible. Not only have they to prepare surfaces which are scrutinised on TV and often criticised by players, past and present – when often it is as a result of bad play not bad surfaces – and then have to move seamlessly into preparing a stadium for an arena concert.

“They are working incredibly long hours, late into the night, and sometimes overnight to ensure that concerns booked by the commercial department are a success. I don’t think there is enough recognition for how much effort goes into it all.”

David was appointed to the Board as an independent member nine years ago after he had carried out some consultancy work for the IOG’s Chief

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SALTEX 2019: powered by innovation David Carpenter

Executive Geoff Webb in 2005.

“I also did a study in 2007 in which I called groundsmanship the hidden profession. I was basically saying that there was great work being done and some really good people involved but that they didn’t really have any profile at all.

“In 2010 Geoff asked me to join the Board and I have been really pleased that I accepted his offer because it has been quite an eventful time over the last eight or nine years and the organisation has made really good progress.”

Much of that progress can be seen with the success of the move of Saltex to the NEC in Birmingham, a move that David was involved heavily.

“We agonised about it for quite a long time to be frank but we knew that Windsor was staring to fail and that the status quo was not going to work. We had to shake it up and do something, and we’ve had a successful four years so far.

“The key is for us to keep the Show fresh and innovative, introduce new things and new thinking and we will try to keep it going for strength to strength.

Fortunately, we have some good thinkers around the table and people who feed in good ideas and Geoff himself is very good on that front.”

David was elected Chair at the IOG’s AGM in September and firmly believes that progress will be made.

“I feel that I am taking over at quite a good time with regard to where we’ve managed to get to but we must lift the bar higher. We must push forward. For example, we have just appointed an agency to work with us with the aim of lifting the profile of the industry. Their work will not be launched until next spring but we are working very hard behind the scenes with the agency and I see this as the next stage of our challenge.”

Life is full of challenges but if you have a carpenter at the heart of things you can be sure of stability and a well-constructed future.

SALTEX 2019, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham on October 30 and 31, continues to be the go-to destination for highlights of innovation in the groundscare environment, bringing together grounds personnel from across a wide variety of sectors and disciplines to unite, collaborate and celebrate the latest technologies.

There is no better place to exchange knowledge, ideas and inspiration and here is some information to help you plan your visit.

Over 500 groundscare brands During the two-day event, more than 500 brands will be on show to over 9,000 visitors that are increasingly demanding new grounds management solutions.

Those working in or involved with groundscare, sports turf, amenities, estates and greenspace management can update their product knowledge as they

navigate their way through the three large show halls containing a vast array of exhibitors showcasing machinery, power and hand tools; seeds, turf, aggregates and treatments; landscaping materials; arboriculture, horticulture and forestry products; commercial vehicles and much, much more.

With such a diverse range of exhibitors, SALTEX 2019 has something for everyone and regardless of budget the show can meet your requirements. Be sure to make the most of showonly offers and discounts.

Visitors can also refer to the show guide to browse through all of the products currently being considered for the SALTEX 2019 Innovation of the Year Award. From robotics to hybrid mowers, ground printers to state-of-the-art irrigation, grow lights to line trimmers – visitors can pin-point the products they want to see and then make their way to the relevant exhibitor stand, then head }

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Introducing the Eco Village } to Theatre Four at 2:40pm where the

winning product will be crowned as the SALTEX 2019 Innovation of the Year.

outside the SALTEX halls 6,7 and 8 which will provide an opportunity to see larger equipment in action.

See indoor and outdoor product demonstrations

Gain CPD points by attending the FREE educational seminars

SALTEX 2019 is the industry’s national hub for innovation. Take the all new show feature – the Eco Village, as a prime example. The trend towards sustainable and environmentallyfriendly practices in groundscare is gathering pace as a growing number of grounds personnel, greenkeepers, landscapers and contractors are looking for products that can deliver quality results but also reduce carbon footprints to the environment.

The Eco Village feature offers a programme of daily demonstrations in cutting-edge sustainable technology – allowing visitors an opportunity of witnessing products in action.

Furthermore, industry experts, within this village, will offer advice on green technology and how it could benefit current working practices.

Outdoor demonstrations will also be taking place on the grass area directly

Groundscare advice will be available across the show floor, within four seminar theatres. Learning LIVE, SALTEX’s free education programme will feature 55 CPD accredited seminars and more than 100 expert speakers including Gary Barwell (Warwickshire CCC), Neil Stubley (AELTC), Lee Jackson (Manchester City FC), Jim Dawson (BT Murrayfield), Karl Standley (Wembley), Ryan Golding (Leeds Rugby), Mark Pover (The FA), George Hill (Lingfield Park Racecourse), Alison Williams (Myerscough College), Dr Christian Spring (STRI), John Moverley (Amenity Forum) and Lee Marshallsay (Charterhouse).

The programme has been developed and curated alongside leading industry partners and influencers to provide support, insight and real solutions to the biggest issues that the audience care about most.

Designed for all sectors of the groundscare industry, Learning LIVE seminars will focus on topics such as disease management, industry research, best practice, mental health, diversity in the workplace, synthetic turf standards, funding and climate control.

Looking for more personalised advice? Then look no further than the free “Ask the Expert” advice centre located on Stand C180. This is your opportunity to gather best-in-class sports turf management advice from IOG regional pitch advisors linked to the Grounds & Natural Turf Improvement Programme funded by The IOG, The FA, the ECB and the Football Foundation.

Network with thousands of other like-minded individuals Networking is just one of many reasons why people attend SALTEX and a visit to the Lawn Care Legends free networking event should be on every landscaper’s show itinerary. Lawn Care Legends, a Facebook group which was created in July 2016, is a thriving online community with over 5,000 worldwide active members. It is primarily a group } Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 31

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Steps to boost your career } for all landscapers and gardeners to

showcase their work and knowledge and ultimately support one another.

The Legends are planning on addressing a number of topics this year, including information on marketing a business, dealing with stress and pricing a job correctly. Hundreds of attendees are expected and over £2500 worth of prizes are up for grabs.

This networking opportunity is taking place on the first day of SALTEX at 2pm in concourse suites 22 and 23 by the SALTEX entrance and all are welcome.

Also taking place on the first day of SALTEX is the Women in Turf networking event. This is an opportunity for all women that work in the groundscare sector to discuss job opportunities and career progression. If you would like to attend this networking event please email kmaxwell@iog.org

Supercharge your career Industry expert Frank Newberry will be hosting the popular Job Clinic sessions at the IOG Hub (C180) between 9am and 3pm each day. Available as a one-to-one

or group session Frank will be offering his expertise on perfecting a CV and cover letter; how to excel in interviews; negotiating your package; being a better interviewer (for employers), proactive job searching; and the pros and cons of being self-employed.

The SALTEX College Cup Returning for its fourth successive year, the SALTEX College Cup, sponsored

by Toro and Reesink, will see students from UK based colleges embark on an academic test of turf management knowledge in which the winning college will get the opportunity to visit Real Madrid’s Bernabau Stadium.

This unforgettable trip follows three previous winners’ visits to top sports venues including: pitch preparation activities at the 2017 FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium and for the 2018 Six Nations Championships at BT Murrayfield Stadium. Last year’s winners were given an exclusive behind the scenes tour at The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), Wimbledon.

You can watch the winners’

announcement in Theatre One on the first day of SALTEX at 3:30pm.

Pathology and Soil Science LIVE Hosted by renowned turf consultant Alex Vickers and MD of the Turf Disease Centre Kate Entwistle, Pathology and Soil Science LIVE will allow visitors to look in detail at the symptoms of some common turfgrass fungal disease problems, as infected plants are magnified and displayed on a large screen. Informal demonstrations will be available daily on the IOG Hub (C180) in Hall 6. Don’t forget to bring your soil samples!

The IOG Industry Awards 2019 The IOG Industry Awards recognise the passion, dedication and challenges faced by grounds staff in both grassroots and professional sports at clubs of every size and from all corners of the UK. This year, the Awards will be hosted by BBC TV presenter Dan Walker on the evening of the first day of the SALTEX exhibition. n SALTEX 2019 is free to attend. To register your attendance and beat the queues visit www.iogsaltex.com Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 33

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW Agronomic Services Stand F100

Agronomic’s will be highlighting their disease prevention packages, enabling Turf Managers to reduce their fungicide applications and focus on plant health.

“This is a win win situation for the environment and for the customer’s budgets, particularly with the restrictions on fungicides,” said David Snowden of Agronomic Services Ltd. “Floratine products have been prescribing plant nutrition and preventative health for sport’s turf for more than 20 years. We are the

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experts in this field”. For technology capable of reducing inputs, Floratine Foliars are the leaders in this sector, with extensive research and experience in plant health.

Agronomic Services Ltd is delighted to be exhibiting once more at Saltex on Stand F100.

Ariens Stand D062

For the professional operator, a machine that does the work in half the time of a conventional lawn tractor has to be a major consideration. This potential to increase productivity is one of the driving forces behind the

growth in popularity of zero-turn mowers in the UK. The Zenith 60 is the latest zero-turn in the Ariens range. A performance machine, it’s packed with commercial features

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and built for durability and strength.

Powered by the reliable Kawasaki FX730V 726cc engine, the Zenith has a forward speed of 8.5mph for fast mowing. Cutting the grass at speed combined with total manoeuvrability gets you through the job faster, without compromising a quality finish.

To keep the operator comfortable through the day the high backed, ergonomically designed, padded seat not only reduces user fatigue, it also helps to absorb the impact on uneven surfaces. The Zenith 60 comes with a two-year commercial warranty. For more information visit www.ariens-uk.com

Barenbrug Stand G055

Baradona is a brand-new perennial ryegrass from Barenbrug’s European turf breeding programme. The variety is primarily bred for winter sports wear tolerance but has density and fineness of

leaf applicable to summer sports also. It is one of only two cultivars in the top-10 on both S1 and L1 tables in BSPB/STRI Turfgrass Seed 2019. Its mean score of 7.7 on both tables is unsurpassed.

The first harvest of Baradona came off field on 29 July 2019 at Corhampton in Hampshire. For 2020, the variety will feature in Barenbrug Sport Range products Elite Sport and Multi Sport.

Elite Sport features the very best cultivars available for winter sports use on stadium and professional pitches.

Multi Sport contains high performing perennial ryegrass seed produced exclusively in the UK and is suitable for a wide range of sports and pitch types.

Baradona is named after the Argentinian genius Diego, the best footballer of his generation. We are sure it will give you and your pitch a “helping hand” in the years to come!

Belchim Stand A100

Belchim has significant experience in industrial and amenity markets, particularly in the weed control sector

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via the market leading broad-spectrum residual herbicide flazasulfuron (Chikara® Weed Control and Katana®) A new offering for amenity is Katoun® Gold – 500g/L pelargonic acid.

Katoun® Gold is a non-selective contact herbicide for use on amenity vegetation (bare soil around trees and woody shrubs), natural surfaces not intended to bear vegetation and permeable surfaces overlying soil including gravel pathways, forest nursery and hardy ornamental plant production.

Katoun® Gold is a natural product that rapidly breaks down the plant cuticle leading to loss of water.

Symptoms can be seen after only a few hours with complete control of smaller weeds after a few days.

Katoun® Gold offers a much needed additional option in a market with limited alternatives, particularly in more sensitive areas.

For more information contact us at Saltex, call 01480 403333 or } email info-uk@belchim.com

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW }

Dennis Mowers

Campey Turf Care

Stand E070

Stand C050

Campey Turf Care Systems will be exhibiting the new AllTrec Tool Carrier for the first time.

The Dutch made machine is 100% electric and can be used with either the cutting deck, weed brush, hedge trimmer or weed killer attachments. Because it is fully electric there are zero CO2 emissions and very low operating costs.

Also on display will be the recently released Campey Uni-Scratch. This machine is the ideal solution for professional and effective maintenance of natural grass and can also be used for the final organic matter removal on natural grass hybrid carpet pitches when carrying out annual renovations.

Away from turf grooming, Campey will also be exhibiting the Air2G2 Air Inject and Air2hp.

Since the introduction of the Koro Fieldtopmaker to market, fraise mowing has become a standard practice, and as the technology has become more refined, it has been used on new sports surfaces, with cricket the latest to adopt the practice.

Case IH Stand D032

Leading agricultural machinery manufacturer, Case IH, will once again be exhibiting at the Show.

The brand, which has been producing agricultural machinery for more than 175 years, produces a range of tractors from 55hp to 692hp, with the 55hp to 130hp models perfectly suited to many applications in amenity use. All models

share the Case IH tradition of safety and operator comfort and can be specified with a range of implements including loaders, as well as tyres to match the demands of every application.

Case IH tractors have proven reliability and are supported by a network of more than 80 dealers across the UK and Ireland, providing a guarantee of personal and professional after-sales support.

Visit the stand where there will be a selection of tractors from the popular Farmall range on display.

Demon International Stand F105

Demon International are one of the leading manufacturers in the UK of industrial pressure washers and high pressure cleaning innovation.

Demon have introduced a range of new pressure washers to meet the changing needs of the cleaning market.

As emission regulations on engines have changed, Demon have looked at alternative fuels and produced a range of Honda powered LPG engines for its mini-bowser and Hurricane combi machines. LPG offers a reduction of 60% for CO and greatly reduced hydrocarbon emissions. There are many benefits of using LPG including reduced maintenance for the engines.

As demands on emissions grow, Demon look to how they can evolve pressure washers to not only keep up with more efficient ways of cleaning, but also complying with new regulations.

Demon will be exhibiting the range of LPG and battery operated pressure washers at their stand – come along and find out more.

Dennis Mowers will be unveiling a new and exciting range of mowers when the show opens its doors.

Although product details are being kept tightly under wraps, the Dennis stand is set to be the hub of groundscare innovation at its finest.

Aside from the new range of products there will also be a stellar line-up of world-class maintenance equipment for every type of playing surface.

Designed specifically for fine turf, SALTEX attendees can expect to see the Razor Ultra 560 which has a 560mm cutting width and incorporates many key features including an 11 bladed cutting cylinder, ultra-short wheelbase for undulating surfaces, tungsten tipped groomer, compact handle design for extra manoeuvrability and click height adjusters.

The Dennis FT510 provides its user with comfort, flexibility and excellent performance. A true sense of control is obtained through the roller clutch drive for a smooth take-up and a variable clip rate helping to create the desired finish.

The Dennis G860 cylinder mower has long been the number one choice for groundsmen and SALTEX visitors will be able to see this impressive mower on the stand.

DLF Stand J100

Sports, Lawn and Wildflower seed will all be under the spotlight as DLF Seeds return to SALTEX. The technical team will be on hand to provide mixture advice across the Johnsons Sports Seed and Masterline ranges, but also, visitors to stand J100 will have the chance to win } innovative tools for effective on-theTurf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 37

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } spot overseeding, worth over £600!

With sustainability and ecology still very much on the agenda for golf courses and those managing green spaces, the DLF Pro Flora wildflower range has been extended with the addition of three Colour Boost mixtures.

With winter approaching, the importance of regular overseeding

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cannot be over-emphasised – essential for sward development, overseeding improves turf quality and can reduce maintenance costs over the long term.

DLF’s new turf type tetraploids are ideal for winter overseeding, bred for rapid germination and establishment even under low soil temperatures.

To help make the overseeding process more efficient and effective, DLF have teamed up with ForthRoots to give visitors to SALTEX the chance to win both the new RyeSeeder and MultiTool. For precision overseeding, the RyeSeeder features interchangeable tine options that are designed to fit perfectly into the scars left following matches or training, to create the perfect bed for placement of recovery seeding.

Dorset Soils Stand K190k

Dorset Soils and Aggregates offer unbeatable prices and a service you can rely on. Supplying an extensive range of building and landscaping materials to the trade and domestic customers, including local councils, sports clubs and the National Trust.

Visit their stand for an exclusive opportunity to view their premium landscaping materials and chat to the experts, Paul and Sally, who will be happy discuss any of your requirements.

Featuring their well-established Wessex range, including: Awardwinning Coolfresh turf, Dutch tree sand }

Hand SALTEX Tools

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW to win two tickets for a VIP trip to Anfield to watch a Liverpool match – full hospitality included!

EGO Stand J062

Aiming to show grounds care

and British Standard 3882 10mm soil.

Other products include bunker sand which is perfect for golf courses and silica sand which is a highgraded, sub-angular sand, ideal for equestrian use, construction applications and horse ménages.

Receive a free gift bag when you visit their stand and the chance

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volunteers and professionals smarter solutions to power through gardening and landscaping tasks, minus the petrol, EGO will be giving SALTEX visitors a first look at the latest additions to its stateof-the-art product range, ahead of launching in Europe in 2020.

The brand will be offering guests a chance to see its brand-new battery, self-propelled mower, and chainsaw.

“We’re coming to SALTEX with a trio of new products offering the latest technological advancements, packed with the power of EGO. We’ll be sharing a preview of our 2020 range, all delivering a new level of performance to make the toughest tasks a breeze,” said Steve Roskell, Marketing Director EMEA at EGO. }

SALTEX

Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW Etesia Stand 085

} Etesia will be launching three new products on their stand. The new products will include a rideon mower, the new facelift Attila brushcutters and electric wheelbarrow.

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Full details will be announced on the first day of the show.

Also on show will be the recently relaunched PRO46 PHTS3 single speed self-propelled and PRO46 PHE3 push pedestrian mowers.

Following the same concept of the PRO46 range of pedestrian mowers first launched in the early 1990’s, both models feature Xenoy cutting decks for increased strength, shear washer crank protection, individual height of cut adjusters, a new 22mm handlebar design, the latest Honda GCV170 engine and are supplied complete with 80 litre grass box and rear deflector as standard.

Visitors to stand E085 will also get the opportunity to see the new AK60 & AH75 pedestrian brushcutters,

which were first shown to the UK market at SALTEX last year. With built-in rugged reliability as standard, both models have been designed to work in the toughest of conditions.

New product brochures ahead of the 2020 season will also be available, as will the company’s knowledgeable staff to answer any questions.

Germinal Seeds Stand A130

No matter how naturally resistant a grass cultivar is to diseases such as fusarium, an unhealthy or nutrient deficient sward won’t be able to withstand the disease pressures associated with the onset of wetter and colder autumn conditions.

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as sports fields, golf greens and tees and bowling greens throughout the growing season, but especially during the autumn and winter months. G14 Alleviate Fe contains magnesium, a vital component of chlorophyll, which helps to maintain good metabolism of energy for healthy plant growth.

Greenkeepers are therefore advised to remember that feeding the sward goes beyond applying the main three macro-nutrients: N, P & K, and should include additional micro-nutrients, namely magnesium and iron.

Germinal’s specialist G13 Protekt and G14 Alleviate Fe fertilisers are formulated to provide the necessary nutrients to protect grass swards at crucial times such as during the onset of cooler autumn and winter conditions.

G13 ProteKt is a 3-0-22 (+3% Fe) anti-stress fertiliser. Containing 22% potash and 3% iron, it can be used during the autumn and winter to harden turf, heighten sward colour and prevent disease attack.

G14 Alleviate Fe is a 4-0-10 (+8% Fe) fertiliser which is ideal for protecting high value turf areas such

GKB Stand H051

The GKB Top-Clean is a full mechanic, self-driven machine that removes all kind of dirt from the top of a synthetic pitch, from cigarettes, leaves and papers to plastic bottles. This machine can easily be connected to almost every tractor by using a standard three-point hitch or electric drawbar.

Using a high driving speed (around 10 km/h) will result in a perfect looking

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artificial pitch that you can be proud of!

Designed as a full self-driven machine, the Top-Clean features two rubber wheels at the front ensure that the machine will roll softly across the artificial pitch..

During operation debris and infill will come on a vibrating sieve. This sieve will separate infill material from the debris and thanks to the vibration of the sieve, all pollution moves to the bins at the end. Containing two separate bins, after use, the bins can easily be removed to get emptied in a regular waste container.

GrassMaster Solutions by Tarkett Sports Stand E190

GrassMaster Solutions, the hybrid grass division of Tarkett Sports, continues to lead the hybrid sports grass industry since 1989. Their expertise has been used on more than 800 pitches worldwide of which 16 are football clubs within the English Premier League. During the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France, }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } five out of the nine pitches where

supplied by GrassMaster Solutions.

The stitched hybrid grass system GrassMaster contains 100% natural grass, reinforced with 20 million inhouse produced High Performance Polypropylene Fibers (HPF) with a proven lifespan of 15 years or more. The natural grassroots entwine with the fibers building a stronger and healthier rootzone, ensuring an always even and

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stable surface with a fast recovery.

PlayMaster, launched in 2016, is the flexible carpet-based hybrid technology that provides a horizontal reinforcement that offers fast installation and instant playability.

Groundsman Industries Stand K078

Groundsman Industries will be exhibiting their all new TIM13 Trench Insertion Machine to insert Dripperline Irrigation Pipe down to 15cm deep in a one pass operation to provide water directly to the root zone of any grass surface. The insertion trench is created without removing soil thereby leaving very little trace on the surface.

Also on display the incredible Turf/

Sod Multi Cutter range of two and four-wheel drive delivering exceptional cutting ability in all conditions with very low maintenance. These versatile machines can be fitted with sod blades 30cm to 60cm wide cutting 1cm to 7cm thick plus Trench, De-compaction and Mole-drain blades to 13cm depth.

Groundsman Aerators are available in 45cm to 180cm working widths.

All use Groundsman’s proven rugged }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } Elliptical Plunge Action mechanism for aeration to 15cm deep. Quick-change accessories available for Solid, Hollow and Chisel Tining plus Cluster Tines for dense pattern aeration and seeding.

The Flexblade Collector developed

by Groundsman is now available from 0.8m to 2.3m wide to fit Groundsman and many other makes of aerators to Core and Collect as well as Compact Tractor mounting for Follow-up Collection.

Groundwow Stand D116

Launching in October 2019, GroundWOW makes printing on ground as easy as printing on paper.

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GroundWOW® SPECIAL FX can print any logo, any colour, any size, on any surface. Deployable in under 10 minutes, autonomous vehicle

technology, artificial intelligence, and end-to-end SAAS (Software As A Service) platform combine to create ground-printed images as accurate as a blade of grass.

“Compared to current methods, GroundWOW offers significant time and cost savings, and is available for a single monthly fee,” said Tony Rhoades, GroundWOW Founder, Chairman and CEO. “GroundWOW customers will be the first in the World to have the power of full colour autonomous AI printing at their disposal for sports sponsorship and advertising applications.

“This is the first of several GroundWOW product innovations geared to drive sponsorship revenue in all sports around the world.” }

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SALTEX

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } Harrod Sport Stand K095

For the 16th year, Harrod Sport are exhibiting at the Show! We are excited to showcase our new innovations and products within the sport industry, and speak with new and existing customers. We’ve been working hard on designing a stylish stand which is sleek and modern to

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showcase our brand and what Harrod Sport is all about. This year we are also going to be showcasing some of our new products which have been launched this year, so ensure you come visit us on stand K095!

Herbatech Stand E102

On the occasion of its 25th anniversary, Herbatech launches the new website HERBATECH.com which aims to represent Herbatech digital business card in the International turf business community.

Edited by Marco Guarino, Web Master for SicyBit, the graphic line chosen for the portal is linear,

minimal and clean, consistent with the evolution of the brand, to ensure maximum comfort and simplicity to navigators. A new digital platform to transmit the pillars on which Herbatech identity is based: the technical quality of its products combined with the values of the company: SCIENCE – SOLUTIONS – RESULTS. The decision to relaunch Herbatech official website highlights Herbatech desire to focus more and more on the digital world; with HERBATECH. }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } com greenkeepers, groundsmen and

turf professionals can comfortably consult and download the catalogue, finding technical data sheets, photos and available packaging.

“Our greatest aspiration is to

involve turf professional operators, both technically and emotionally,” says Giuseppe Serenelli, CEO and founder of Herbatech.

“The new website HERBATECH. com is the digital evolution of the world of Herbatech; the new challenge is to reach with it professional turf markets around the world so far unexplored by our company”.

ICL Stand 030

ICL provides a wide variety of products for turf, landscape and industrial areas.

Visitors to the stand will be able to find out more about Lockstar, a new residual, pre-emergent herbicide that

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controls a broad spectrum of weeds.

Elsewhere on the SALTEX show floor, ICL’s International Technical Manager Andy Owen will be leading a seminar entitled Managing Parasitic Nematodes with Seaweed.

Commencing on the second day of SALTEX in Learning LIVE Theatre Two at 12:40pm Andy will be providing an insight into ICL’s four-year research project which is exploring the effects of seaweed products on turfgrass plant parasitic nematodes.

The project, which is taking place at Royal Holloway, University of London, was founded due to the apparent rise of nematodes. As it stands, there are few options available for the turf manager who has a nematode problem but ICL is currently researching whether }

SALTEX

Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } seaweed could offer a solution..

The ICL stand will feature a coffee barista and free drinks will be available throughout the two-day event.

Iseki Stand E057

ISEKI is excited to be showcasing two new models of compact tractors

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this year at SALTEX alongside our exceptional mower range.

The new TXGS24 is replacing the exceptionally popular TXG237, the ultimate multi-purpose groundscare compact tractor. Fitted with new accessories, ergonomic controls and refreshed design plus the addition of a new front loader.

On display at the show will also be a new TH5420 to join the established and reliable TH range of ISEKI compact tractors. This is a brand new product with a Stage V compliant engine, a new range of accessories plus a factory fitted cab.

The unmistakable ISEKI range of mowers will also be on the stand, suitable for any tasks from brushcutting, to extensive mowing.

Leaving a superior finish, along with the ability to cut and collect whatever the weather throws at you is the hallmark of ISEKI mowers.

John Deere Stand E080

John Deere is launching its first commercial electric battery powered walk-behind rotary mower at the Show.

The new PRO 43B not only produces zero emissions, but also offers intuitive handling, fast charging and a

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high level of operator comfort. It is designed to enable professional users to easily cut smaller grass areas and clean up edges in public spaces, without the disturbance and nuisance caused by noise and fumes.

Built around an aluminium mower deck with steel reinforcement and alloy wheels for extra durability and reliability, the PRO 43B has shown impressive cutting and bagging performance in pre-production field tests.

The 36V mower’s new Powerhead carries two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and switches automatically to the second battery when the first one is empty. Charging capacity is 6Ah as standard, with a full electric charge taking 2 hours 20 minutes and providing up to 500m2 mowing capacity.

Cutting width of the PRO 43B is 43cm and there is a choice of seven cutting heights from 22 to 80mm, easily set by a central lever. The mower comes with a 45-litre capacity grass bagger that features a simple TurboStar ‘bag full’ indicator flag.

KAR UK Stand E053

KAR UK is set to unveil a unique range of new Hunter TTS rotors where visitors can expect to find out more about a wide range of irrigation products from prominent international manufacturers.

Anticipation is already building around the soon-to-be launched new Hunter TTS-800 series.

The Hunter TTS-800 rotors provide maximum uniformity and longevity.

The high-torque gear drives are the strongest in the industry, so the challenges of reclaimed water use or poor water quality are mitigated.

The new 800 series feature Hunter’s patented TTS technology which allows for every

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serviceable element of the rotor to be accessed through the top.

Another highlight on the KAR UK stand will be the recently launched ST-1700V rotor which offers unrivalled high-performance irrigation for synthetic turf. Simplicity is the key to the ST-1700V as it integrates Valve-inHead capabilities and a TTS design to simplify installation and maintenance.

The Rega Rainking will also be on display – which is an ideal sprinkler for watering sports turf and can water the complete pitch in just two runs.

Limagrain UK Stand G041

Limagrain UK will be showcasing its impressive range of grass seed mixtures, including the market leading MM60 and MM50 on their stand.

MM is one of the most respected brands in the UK sportsturf and amenity industries and is relied upon at top sports grounds throughout the UK and beyond.

MM60 is a 100% Ryegrass formula }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } and the UK’s leading winter sports

renovation mixture. It is well-known for its extremely fast germination and its high wear tolerance plus

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excellent disease resistance.

MM50 is perfect for cricket squares, tennis courts and also golf tees and fairways. This hard-wearing mix has rapid germination, extremely fine leaved appearance, high shoot density and is tolerant to very close mowing, as low as 5mm, along with high disease resistance.

For winter overseeding, many groundsmen choose to repair their pitches with Limagrain’s MM75R mixture which improves sward composition and aids recovery from disease scarring.

All mixtures in the MM range, are treated with Limagrain’s HEADSTART® GOLD – a revolutionary grass seed treatment that ensures rapid, even germination.

Major Stand J112

Phil Cole at Cotswold Turf Care knows a good mower when he sees one. “The MAJOR Swift is a great performer and always leaves an excellent finish The exceptional double-wing design of the new MJ71-730T increases productivity and efficiency without compromising on the quality of cut.

“The front and rear rollers ensure we leave a level and striped finish at precisely the right height of cut, every time. It levels the ground back down to its original condition after we’ve had eight or ten horses running over it.”

“Because it’s made of high-strength Strenx steel, it’s lightweight and avoids

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Mansfield Sand Stand E195

compaction, which is beneficial to maintain the best ground condition,” The trailed versions display the MAJOR qualities of durability and low maintenance. “There are no belts – just a strong and simple, heavy-duty driveline with a shearbolt in the PTO drive,” Phil continues.

“The MAJOR Swift is galvanised so it’s going to last us a long time!”

The larger units also have rubber encasing the hinges of each arm.

This protects the joints while adding mobility for each wing over uneven ground for a more consistent cut.

Mansfield Sand will feature a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping and equestrian uses on their stand.

Here is a taster of just some of the products that could well make a significant improvement to your sports turf facility.

A range of Reinforced Rootzones developed to obtain greater use from natural turf surfaces while maintaining the high standards demanded by today’s sports industry

www.turfmatters.co.uk www.turfmatters.co.uk

and meeting the expectations of ground staff at all levels. Mansfield Sand’s reinforcement technology provides stability and durability to all sand dominated Rootzones allowing the pitch to remain free draining and consistent over the whole surface.

Products include Fibre Reinforced Rootzone – reinforced with polypropylene fibres; Fibrelastic Rootzone – reinforced with polypropylene fibres and flexible Elastane fibres and Fibresand – particularly advantageous when grass cover has been reduced due to heavy usage and wear during the winter period.

A range of premium quality sand organic material blends which are perfect for creating a rootzone where an organic rich material is required within the profile, aiding in the retention of nutrients while providing increased drought resistance.

Produced for the fine turf market, Mansfield Sand’s Soil Top Dressing is a manufactured homogenous product made from their own premium silica sands combined with top quality soils. }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } Pellenc UK Stand C085

Pellenc UK has chosen SALTEX 2019 to launch four new battery-powered hand tools on their new stand location C085.

Full details are being kept under wraps until the show opens but visitors will be excited to hear that a new pedestrian mower and ULiB will be two

of the new products to join the portfolio.

A forerunner when it comes to lithium-ion technology and high efficiency ‘brushless’ motors, Pellenc has established itself as the number one choice in the ‘zero emission’ professional power tools market for the maintenance of urban and green-spaces.

Other products on the stand will include the new Pellenc Alpha range of professional ‘On-Board- battery tools. The Pellenc Alpha range sees two new batteries (P260 and P520) which can be directly fitted to the tools or fitted to a new harness.

Also available to view will be the Airion 3 new generation handheld blower, Rasion pedestrian rotary mower, Helion hedgecutter, Selion chainsaws and polesaws and the Prunion and Vinion pruning shears.

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

Price Turfcare Stand B124

Price Turfcare, the UK and Ireland distributor of the Ventrac multi-implement compact tractor and Ryan turf maintenance equipment, is returning to SALTEX with a larger stand and more products on display.

Founded by Ransomes Jacobsen’s former Sales Director, Rupert Price, in January 2017, the company has come a long way in less than three years.

“We’ve had a fantastic journey in a short space of time. It’s been very hectic with demonstrations, roadshows and exhibitions to get the products in front of people and it has certainly produced excellent sales for the business,” said Rupert.

“We have increased sales, year-on-year, with most Ventrac’s being sold 56 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

with multiple attachments.”

“One significant sale this year was to a well-known utility company in the north of England, who purchased five Ventrac mowers with Finishing decks and then, within a month, returned to purchase a sixth machine – this time with a Tough Cut deck. Private estates are another key business area for us and we have made significant sales involving multiple implement purchases. Customers really appreciate the versatility of Ventrac.”

Ransomes Stand H090

Ransomes Jacobsen will be showcasing the revised model of the Highway 3 triple cylinder mower at the Show.

The lightweight mower is popular in the commercial market and is well known for its high work rate, slope stability and manoeuvrability.

To increase the mower’s already impressive output, drive train improvements have been made to boost the overall efficiency and compliment the Euro Stage V compliance.

The new drivetrain is central to the increased work rate and is looking forward to exhibiting the machine at the Birmingham NEC. “The Highway 3 is typically used on large areas for extended periods of time, so productivity is an important aspect of the mower. It was a case of improving something that was already performing very well, but the }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW new drivetrain has made a difference and we’re very pleased with the outcome,” said Ransomes Jacobsen Director of International Product Development, Richard Comely.

Other machines on show will include the TR320 triplex mower, HR300 out-front mower, Cushman utility vehicle and the HM600 wide-area mulching flail mower.

The HM600’s cutting capabilities come from the ‘M’ type carbide flails and ‘shark fin’ shredding bar.

for the green sector. In addition, the most advanced technology has been used, not only in terms of engine and drive engineering, but also in terms of mowing technology. The flail was developed in collaboration with Votex.

The new 5-series is based on the technology of the 3-series, which means that every professional can rely on a concept that has been proven in practice. The use of the best materials combined with ingenious technology minimises the chance of breakdowns. This makes it possible to use the machine day in, day out.

With the F5, it is just as easy to mow short and high grass, and it doesn’t matter if it is dry or wet.

SCH (Supplies) Ltd Sponsor

Roberine Stand G090

Roberine is a Dutch manufacturer of mowing machines. The brand has been renowned since 1951 for top quality and perfect cutting patterns, and this is perhaps even more true in the present day than ever before.

This makes Roberine the brand for all professionals in the green sector specialising in the management of sports grounds, parks and green spaces in public areas.

The 3-series are three-part selfpropelled mowers are the result of many years of experience in developing and creating machines

58 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

For the second consecutive year, SCH (Supplies) Ltd will be sponsoring the IOG Best Managed Artificial Surface Industry Award instead of keeping stand space at SALTEX. The choice to sponsor follows the success of last year’s Industry Awards and is especially appealing as it allows key members of staff to stay

featuring over 250 British built grounds care machines, contact SCH on 01473 328272, email sales@ schsupplies.co.uk, or visit the website www.schsupplies.co.uk

SGL Stand G223

We are introducing a brand new grow lighting product line which makes grow lights possible for sports clubs who never had the budget before.

With the SGL Basic line we aim to enable grass quality improvements in different layers and levels of sport.

This will lead to better and safer playing surfaces throughout the year for lower professional sports leagues and training grounds, but also schools and local sports clubs.

The first lighting system in the Basic line is the BU50 and will be officially launched at stand G223 at Saltex. The BU50 treats a surface of 50 square meters and recovers grass after games and events, to ensure pitch quality throughout the year regardless of climate conditions.

Come and check it out.

Shelton Drainage Stand B112

on site; ensuring products continue to reach customers without delay.

The choice of award was easy to make as SCH manufacture a large range of artificial maintenance equipment for sports venues of all sizes and budgets. SCH originally sponsored the IOG Industry Award as a thank you to the organisation that has kept them as one of the UKs leading grounds care manufacturers, and they are delighted to sponsor this prestigious award again.

For a free 80 page brochure

Lincolnshire sportsturf drainage experts Shelton will be showcasing their latest machine. The six Tonne Universal Sand and Gravel Hopper has been designed to fulfil a combination of different tasks associated with backfilling and sand spreading on sportsturf after drainage has been carried out. Its unique design means customers can choose from a number of different combinations: A stand alone Universal base unit or with the addition of any or all of the following options: A Gravel Cart (Side }

SALTEX

Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW }

Discharge Unit), Sand Spreader or six Tonne Fast Flow (Centre Fill Unit). The ability to backfill either gravel or sand at the flick of a switch reduces manual handling of the hoppers and improved efficiencies. This also gives the added advantage that the backfilling operation is much quicker and can keep up with the trencher, reducing downtime.

Sherriff Amenity Stand E060

New organic, chemical-free

60 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

biochar products and an upgraded award-winning turf management app will be showcased on the Sherriff Amenity stand.

On the first day of SALTEX 2018, Sherriff Amenity’s ground-breaking new app, PrecisionPro, was announced as the winner of the second, annual SALTEX Innovation Award and in the past year the app has been praised

far and wide by turf managers.

It allows turf managers to have an accurate measured area by simply opening the app and walking the perimeter of the area.

As well as calculating the g/m2 and the operator’s walking speed, the Apply feature ultimately ensures that the exact amount of nutrition is being applied to the turf.

Now, PrecisionPro is returning with some beneficial updates including a new mapping function, a rain shroud and an updated user interface.

Sherriff Amenity is the exclusive UK distributor of Carbon Gold’s Enriched Biochar Turf Improver, and the two companies will be joining forces at SALTEX 2019. Carbon Gold’s aim is to increase soil fertility and improve turf

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health through the use of biochar-based products and visitors to the stand will be able to find out more about these exceptional offerings including the all-new Biochar Raw and Biology Blend.

SISIS Stand E070

Long-term SALTEX exhibitor SISIS will be bringing their expertise and a selection of their renowned product range to this year’s show.

The SISIS range of pedestrian scarifiers come highly recommended by those responsible for the maintenance of sports turf, and two of these products will be featured on the stand – the Rotorake 600HD and the Auto Rotorake MK5. With a range of interchangeable reels consisting of thatch removal,

thatch control and a range of brush reels, the Auto Rotorake MK5 can be used for several different tasks including scarifying, verticutting and brushing. From the same range, the Rotorake 600HD is a heavy duty pedestrian scarifier and linear aerator.

For further scarifying requirements, SALTEX visitors will be pleased to see the new SISIS Veemo HD. This tractor mounted heavy duty scarifier provides increased hydraulic power, an easier connection to the tractor to save time, and new twin oil coolers which will improve the cooling process in hot climates.

Aeration is vital to the health of sports turf and the tractor mounted SISIS Multitiner will significantly help to reduce turf compaction, thatch build-up and boost the overall health of the turf.

Slatter Group

www.turfmatters.co.uk www.turfmatters.co.uk

McDermott, Head Groundsman, Lords, will be taking part in a live Q&A with complimentary drinks for all attendees.

This social event will take place on stand F185, 4pm on 30 October, hosted by White Horse Contractors, giving you the chance to pick the brains of the men responsible for two of the UK’s most iconic grounds.

Win a magnum of champagne!

The top three questions submitted in advance (as judged by Scott and Karl) will each win a magnum of champagne. For your chance to win, email whc@whitehorsecontractors. co.uk or tweet @whitehorsecontr.

Toro and Hayter Stand E065

Stand F185

If you’re heading to Saltex 2019, you’re probably planning to talk turf, ogle new kit and perhaps grab a drink or two along the way.

Scott Brooks, Head of Grounds and Estate, St. George’s Park, and Karl

Toro and British heritage brand Hayter, industry leading landscaping equipment and lawnmower manufacturers, are returning to SALTEX in 2019 to showcase their exciting new range of products.

Toro will be displaying a large line }

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Saltex’19 WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE SHOW } of landscaping equipment with new

turf renovation products and trenchers on display, including the Stand-On Aerator and Hydraulic Silt Seeder. They will also be showing a variety of light commercial equipment, including the Titan® HD, a zero-turn ride on mower with rear discharge functionality.

The company is also revealing the TurfMaster HDX to the UK contractor market for the first time.

Hayter is revealing two updated products, the Harrier 41 and 48 Pro models. These mowers have received a number of updates to improve effectiveness and have also been equipped with new Honda® engines to further boost performance.

TurfKeeper Stand G020

Exhibiting for the first time at SALTEX, visitors to the TurfKeeper will receive a warm welcome and be able to view the many features and benefits that has convinced top turf professionals to use TurfKeeper as their on-line management system.

New to the system is the most recent addition the “digital” white board which embraces modern technology and removes the hassle out of communicating daily tasks.

Updated, in real time, anywhere, on any device, staff will never be out of the loop even if you’re not on site. See less down time and better understanding of what needs to be done.

From top flight to grass roots; football, golf, rugby, schools and universities, TurfKeeper is the ‘go-to’ system for today’s modern manager.

62 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

Turfix Stand E125

Turfix, The Pitchmark Group subsidiary formed at the beginning of 2019, will be exhibiting at Saltex this year with the latest products and developments. Turfix acts as Pitchmark’s UK distribution arm, offering premium pitch solutions to the professional sports turf sector.

The Turfix Services’ GPS marking division has seen new operators in the North and South coming on board during the Easter and summer periods.

Over 300 pitches and tracks have been marked by the team since July alone.

The latest new British product is Block Blitz, a paving treatment with a real difference. It’s described as the UK’s first block paving specific treatment, designed to clean and protect paving without the need for scrubbing, jetwashing or sealing.

Block Blitz joins the wide range of Turfix distributed products including Pitchmark, ICL, Syngenta, Harrod Sport and Tildenet Sport.

Tyre-Line Stand D082

Tyre-Line will again be exhibiting at this year’s SALTEX show at the NEC Birmingham, bringing their extensive knowledge and product portfolio to the UK’s Premier Turf

Management exhibition.

With tyre fitments and patterns to suit all forms of Lawn & Garden, ATV/ UTV, Agricultural & Construction machines, Tyre-Line are also able to help their customer base with professional and specialist services.

This year, Tyre-Line will be showcasing their extensive range of Carlisle Lawn, Garden & Golf Tyres at SALTEX, including such well known pattern names such as Multi Trac / Turf Master, Turf Trac, Links & Fast Trax along with products from ITP, Compass & Wanda.

Come along and speak with Jacqui & Richard on stand D082 or contact them on 01458 250350, aftermarket@tyreline.com

Walker Mowers Stand F030

Walker Mowers will unveil for the first time in Europe their newest mower, the R21 ‘out front mower’ designed for a new generation of users.

Powered by a Kohler 21hp OHV engine with two mulching mower options 42/48” – that fit into an integrated front-mount deck design, which means clear up-and-down and side-to-side movement minimising scalping and uncut grass areas.

Their out front mowing technology was launched 40 years ago, and provides ease of use, quality of cut, operator comfort, reliability and ease of maintenance, as demanded by many commercial customers.

A recent two year study compared the ‘out front rotary’ design from Walker, with 18 competitive style of mowing machines. Big savings were recorded, reaching 25%, important if you’re a commercial landscaper looking for efficiencies and improved productivity.

check out the turf matters website for saltex updates

SALTEX

Saltex’19 exhibitor listing Exhibitor

*All information correct at time of going to print.

Stand No

Exhibitor

Stand No

AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association)

G080

Briggs & Stratton UK Ltd

L077

Agralan Ltd

K005

British Flora

D119

Agri Argo UK

K120

British Sugar TOPSOIL

K190c

Agria UK

M145

Campey Turf Care Systems

C050

Agrigem Ltd

D097

Cap Trac

E185

Agritrend LTD

E110

Case IH Agriculture

D032

Agronomic Services Ltd

K105

Catalyst Computer Systems

H102

Air-Seal Products Ltd

F100

CEMO Safe Storage Ltd

K100

AKFS

C030

CENTRAL SPARES LTD

A087

Allett Mowers

A090

Central Spares ltd

A085

Amateur Sports

J192

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

K070

Amazone Ltd

H050

City & Guilds

E222

AMS Robotics

K009

Collier Turf Care Ltd

C035

Aquatic Solutions UK

A040

COMPO EXPERT

G100

Aquatrols Europe Ltd

C191

County Turf Limited

F132

ARIENS CO LTD

D062

Arysta LifeScience / UPL

F101

Covermaster Inc.

F183

AS Communications (UK) Ltd

F041

CPCL - The Children's Plaground Company

C020

Aspen Fuel

M055

Cub Cadet Golf & Sports Turf

H075

AstroSport Limited

F194

D. W. Tomlin

A065

ATLAS SPORT

E186

Danarm Machinery Limited

E031

Autocut Robotic Mowing

L180

Demon International Ltd

F105

AVANT Tecno UK Ltd

E135

Dennis & SISIS

E070

BAGMA

B107

Devo Goalsport

G181

Barenbrug UK

G055

Domo Sports Grass

C190

Baron UL Ltd

G192

Dorset Soils and Aggregates Ltd

K190k

Bayer CropScience Ltd

G030

Duralock (UK) LTD

M075

Belchim Crop Protection Ltd

A100

Eagle Gearz

E114

BIGGA

E220

Earlsmere Limited

C060

Bio-Circle Surface Technology Ltd

C134

Easy Petrol Post Driver / SPA Weed Brush

D118

Blade Machinery Ltd

J182

ECHO

F013

Blec

M080

Edwards Sports Products

J184

Branson Tractor UK

K180

EGO

J062

British Association of Landscape Industries

K190b

EMAK UK

J124

64 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

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Exhibitor

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Stand No

Energreen s.r.l

K020

Engines Plus Ltd

D133

Etesia UK

C085

EVOPOS UK TD

K122

Ferris, Wright, Spider & Jensen

H190

FGM Claymore

D012

Fineturf

E055

Fleet Line Markers Ltd

A070

Fletcher Stewart

E097

Flower Your Place B.V.

C130

Fusion Media

Press Office

Garden Hire Spares Ltd

H055

Gekko Industries Ltd

L107

GeoRipper

D120

Germinal GB Ltd

A130

GGM Group

E122

Gianni Ferrari

K110

Granuband BV

F191

Grasshopper Turf Equipment

M095

GrassMaster Solutions

E190

Green Plant UK Ltd

K020

GreenMech Ltd

J052

Green-tech Ltd

K190g

GreenTek Solutions Ltd

M060

Grillo Agrigarden

K080

Groundsman Industries Ltd

K078

GroundWOW

D116

Grundon Sand & Gravel

J191

Handy Distribution

E045

Harrod Sport

K095

HATKO

F190

Hayter Limited

E065

Headland Amenity Ltd

G050

Healthmatic Ltd

M105

Henry H Sheach (BOBCAT Mowers)

K040

Henton and Chattell

J005

HERBATECH SRL

E102

HillTip

H030

Honda UK

K190h

Horticulture Week

M030

} Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 65

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saltex’19 exhibitor listing Exhibitor

}

Stand No

Exhibitor

Stand No

Hozelock-Exel

F125

McConnel Limited

A095

Huck Nets (UK) Ltd

J184

Melcourt Industries Ltd

K190i

Husqvarna UK Ltd

H040

MH Goals

E095

ICL

K030

MJ Abbott Ltd

B102

Ionic Systems Ltd

M110

Mr Box

G186

ISEKI

E057

MuckTruck UK Limited

H005

Jac. Uittenbogaard (t/a JUB Holland)

K123

Mumby Machinery

H203

Javelin Irrigation Systems Limited

A051

Myerscough College

C220

JCB Agriculture

A041

Natural Grass

F192

Jo Beau

G110

Net World Sports

C107

John Deere

E080

Nexcel Ltd

K190

Johnsons Sports Seed

J100

NGK Spark Plugs

K055

KAR UK Ltd

E053

Nomix Enviro

E040

Kawasaki, Yanmar

H081

Novokraft AG

E055

Kersten (UK) Ltd

G075

One Ash Training Limited

H032

King Feeders

H085

Overton (UK) Limited

M050

Kioti UK Ltd.

A190

Overton (UK) Limited

M035

Kirkby Tyres Ltd

D022

Overton (UK) Ltd

K050

Kubota (UK) Ltd

C070

Pellenc UK

C085

Labosport Ltd

E196

Perennial

K190l

Landscape & Amenity Product Update

C065

Phoenix Amenity Supplies Ltd

C115

Landscape & Urban Design

E024

Plant Food Company

Lantra Awards

E112

Playmaintain Ltd

E025

Lighthouse (UK) Ltd

G203

Polar Products Europe Ltd

E006

Limagrain UK

G041

Postpullers (UK)Ltd.

H185

Lister Wilder Limited

D067

Poweroll

H110

Live Trakway

E020

Price Turfcare Ltd

B124

Lloyds and Company/ Hunter Grinders

L057

ProPitch Ltd

D220

Loncin

C090

PSD Groundscare

G120

LS Systems Ltd

F008

Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd

H090

LUBBE AND SONS (BULBS) LTD

G025

Raw Stadia

E182

LWS Irrigation Ltd

J187

Razorback UK

G193

Magic Distribution

H120

Red Rhino Crushers UK Ltd.

A054

Majar

E030

Rigby Taylor Ltd

G060

Major Equipment Ltd

J112

Roadphone NRB

D102

Roberine BV

G090

Makita UK Ltd

K190a

H180B

Mansfield Sand

E195

Rochford Garden Machinery

C080

Mark Harrod Ltd

G181

Rover, Lawnflite Pro, CE UK

C040

Martin Lishman Ltd

D092

Ryetec

L183

66 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

}

SALTEX

saltex’19 exhibitor listing

}

Exhibitor

Stand No

S&C Slatter

F185

Stuart Canvas Group

B089

SAPCA

J186

Stuart Taylor International

K020

Seddon Plant & Engineers Ltd

H080

Supreme Leaders

F110

Selectline

F113

Suregreen Ltd

F115

Service Dealer/Turf Pro

M181

Surrey Loams Ltd

F180

SGL

G223

Symbio

G040

Shelton Sportsturf Drainage

B112

T H White Machinery Imports

H190

Sherriff Amenity

E060

Talbot Farm Landscapes Ltd

D117

SISGrass

G222

Tarkett GrassMaster Solutions

E190

Southern Machinery Ltd

A060

Tarmac Topsport

A110

Spaldings Ltd

A085

TEAM SPRAYERS LTD

C095

Sports & Leisure Group

C190

Techneat Engineering Ltd

H100

Sports Metals

M010

The Landscaper Magazine

J185

Springmasters Ltd

F028

The Slatter Group

F185

STIHL GB

H070

Tildenet

J107

STM Co Ltd

K090

Timberwolf

G070

Stone Zone & Landscaping Centre

K190k

TLS- Turf Lighting Solutions

H189

68 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

Exhibitor

Stand No

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saltex’19 exhibitor listing Exhibitor

Stand No

Exhibitor

Stand No

TOBROCO-GIANT UK & Kirkland UK

A030

Upson Mowers Ltd + SKARPER UK

E100

Toro

H010

Ureka Global Ltd

L107

TOTAL- PLAY LTD

A052

Vale Engineering (York) Ltd

K010

TP Woodchippers by Linddana A/S

D122

Velvit Ltd

C100

Tracmaster Ltd

G095

Vitax Supaturf

C120

TRILO / Vanmac B.V.

G010

Votex Hereford

K182

Trimax Mowing Systems

C055

Walker Mowers UK Ltd

F030

Tudor Environmental

M090

Weeding Technologies Limited

F027

Turf Business

J189

Weibang Garden Machinery

C080

Turfcare

G180

Wessex International

K060

Turfdry

A125

Wheatway Solutions Ltd

F022

Turfix

E125

Wiedenmann UK

A080

Turfkeeper

G020

Wildflower Turf Ltd

M085

TYM Tractors

E010

Wox Agri Services Ltd

H188

Tyre-Line Ltd

D082

XL ProBio

H027

Uni-power

K007

YMCA Training

K190e

UPL UK & IE

F101

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EDUCATION

www.turfmatters.co.uk

Can Europe be pesticide-free by 2050?

W

ith the ecological consequences of food production and agricultural practices coming under increased scrutiny, and being reassessed and remodelled, a leading biopesticide technology developer believes Europe can be free of its reliance upon toxic pesticides by 2050.

Emerging advances in biopesticides and biostimulants – eco-friendly,

nature-based alternatives to the harsh, chemical pesticides we have used for many decades to control pests & diseases and increase yield - are transforming the industry. And they are ushering in a new era of cleaner agronomy that could see Europe being pesticide free in the next 30 years, envisions Dr Minshad Ansari Founder and CEO of Bionema Ltd, UK. Bionema

Ltd, a Wales-based BioTech firm, develops natural products to protect crops from pests and diseases and reduce the use of synthetic pesticides.

Minshad chaired the Biopesticides Summit, which was held in July 2019, in Swansea. The Summit gathered hundreds of policy-makers and experts from industry and academia, to discuss the most pressing issues and }

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Dr Minshad Ansari Founder and CEO of Bionema Ltd

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} threats facing crop production today and,

crucially, the need to bring more sustainable alternatives to marketplace swiftly.

“We are living in very crucial times for food production and land management. Safe, responsible and sustainable food production is a cornerstone of the continued survival of life, and some of the most exciting solutions to the biggest problems facing food production are to be found within nature,” said Minshad.

“These biopesticides are, in many cases, already being developed or used successfully, and others are well within our grasp. In fact, I believe Europe can be free of its reliance upon toxic pesticides by 2050.

“We are at a point in time where the public is more aware of, or more vocal about their expectations, when it comes to the impact the practices of industry upon our environment.

And public scrutiny is a very powerful driver of the practices of the biopesticide industry.

“It is very clear that we have reached a watershed moment. There is a growing acceptance among food producers that practices need to be modernised. There is a groundswell of public awareness that we cannot continue to lean upon traditional, damaging pesticides, some of which we have been using for many decades, to support production,” he said.

“The long-term negative effects of using chemical pesticides on the fertility of our land, and the threat this brings to our survival, is well documented. Also, health experts and scientists have been flagging up links between pesticide use and a host of diseases including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, brain, prostate and kidney cancers, for many years.”

The World Health Organisation reports that pesticides are responsible for up to five million cases of poisoning each year, of which 20,000 are lethal. And, it says, pesticides affect children and infants disproportionately.

“The evidence to support wholesale change is there, credible science is there, the will is there, and, to some extent, the funding is increasingly there to ensure efficacious new products to fill the gap in the market created by the removal of pesticides. The remaining hurdles are largely around the slow pace of regulation and licencing these

EDUCATION

products for the marketplace,” he added.

Some of Europe’s largest growers are already reaping the benefits of using non-toxic alternatives to chemical pesticides. In Spain’s notorious ‘Sea of Plastic’, the 30,000 hectare corner of Almeria which produces most of the fruits and vegetables that are consumed throughout Europe, sachets of miniscule mites are used, which are draped from pepper, tomato and courgette plants, and attack the parasites that threaten these crops. In fact, the use of insecticides in Almeria has, according to local authorities, dropped by 40 percent since 2007.

Dr Ansari says: “The biopesticide movement has experienced a very interesting development arc over the past few decades. Our use of insecticides surged in the 1960s, at a time when, at least in the Western World, there was a public awakening to the fact that our chemical-laden environment was perhaps hostile to health and life.

“However, global population pressures have driven producers to increase their output and to find ever more efficient ways of meeting demand.

Insecticides have done much to help

meet those needs. But, they have done so at great cost to human health, to the environment and to the long-term viability of our soil. Growers are also having to meet the man-made challenge of crop resistance to those chemicals we have been using so liberally for years.”

Firms like Bionema, Ecolibrium Biologicals, Maxstim, Aphea.Bio and many others, often working in collaboration with researchers at key universities, represent a growing number of experts who are spearheading change.

“There is still work to be done to educate farmers, many of whom are in a holding pattern of disinfecting their land with fungicides, and using other chemical agents, simply because this is what they have always done, and because these chemicals are being recommended and sold to them by companies they have dealt with over many years and which they trust.

“However, the biopesticide market is expected to grow from $3 billion dollars in 2016 to almost $10 billion dollars by 2025. Around 30% of plant protection tools now available are biological, and more than 50% of new regulatory applications are biological products.

“But the regulatory barriers are complex, and they are consistent challenges. They require the efficacy of a biopesticide to be quantified and proved, they require the biopesticide to pose minimal or zero risk, toxicological and eco-toxicological evaluations, and other stringent tests. These tests have been put in place for chemical pesticides, but they are perhaps not appropriate for biopesticides. Meeting the current requirements can be prohibitively expensive for biopesticide developers, many of which are SMEs.”

“The long-term negative effects of using chemical pesticides on the fertility of our land, and the threat this brings to our survival, is well documented.”

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 73

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Getting turf through winter

EDUCATION

Geoff Fenn, of Advanced Grass Solutions, helps you navigate the trials and tribulations of the winter months Autumn and winter are tough for turf. Low light, cold temperatures, poor weather and regular play mean plants can become stressed, weakened and susceptible to disease. What can we do as Turf Managers to maintain quality through a long winter?

With the reduction in availability (and lower curative abilities) of amenity fungicides, putting together an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan can help reduce disease outbreaks on your site.

Firstly, do not underestimate the importance of correct nutrition. Understand the growth requirements of your surface and make sure nitrogen inputs will produce the exact level of growth you require. In winter sports with high wear you need a higher level of growth for recovery from divots and scars – monitor your growth rate by measuring clipping yield and change inputs to match the growth your site requires. Do not overfeed, do not underfeed – easier said than done but it’s crucial to get the plant in a healthy state with good carbohydrate reserves going into cold weather.

Pay close attention to the source of nitrogen you use – colder weather requires nitrogen with an ammoniacal or nitrate source as these are instantly available. Urea/methylene urea requires some warmth for bacteria to convert it into a plant-available form.

Everything nutritionally should be balanced – beware of the consequences of over-applying anything – excess nutrition can cause plant stresses that reduce health and bring on disease. Soil health can also be adversely affected by too much iron, sulphur and many other compounds used to the detriment of beneficial soil biology.

Try to use products that declare exactly what’s in them so you know what effects these can have both short and long-term.

Try to set aside small trial areas to test if products and practices are genuinely

having a beneficial effect on your site. Don’t believe all the hype or claims of products until you have seen good research or proved to yourself they have a benefit to you.

There are times when disease pressure simply overwhelms all the good factors we encourage in our turf and outbreaks happen anyway, but by getting as many things as ‘correct’ as we can, disease can be limited to a level that you may find ‘acceptable’.

What are some of the factors we can use/influence to reduce disease?

• Thatch Control – Reduce the home of pathi • Nutrition – Get the balance right • Airflow – Increase airflow around each plant • Shade – Reduce shade and increase light • pH – slightly acidic soil and leaf surface will reduce disease • Dew/Moisture – reduce leaf wetness to prevent infection • Drainage – keep surfaces firm and dry • Grass Species – the right species for the right site • Soil biological management – control thatch and diseases and improve health • Fungicides – understand active ingredients and when they work best.

Each individual control method may not add up to a significant difference in disease levels but getting many of the pieces in the puzzle lined up correctly, we can reduce fungicide use and reduce disease activity.

Disease spores can live in thatch layers and when conditions are suitable, they will spread and attack the plant. Reduce thatch to minimal levels and you reduce the amount of disease spores. Try to encourage a healthy, balanced microbial population in your soil by adding high quality carbon-rich organic fertilisers and reducing chemical inputs to as low as possible.

This will then ensure natural thatch breakdown by soil microbes is maximised,

leading to less invasive thatch removal practices to achieve the desired results.

Encouraging beneficial biology helps create a ‘suppressive soil’ that reduces pathogen populations leading to lessaggressive disease outbreaks. Biology alone cannot stop disease, but it can massively help reduce its impact.

An unhealthy anaerobic soil with black layer

Shade & Airflow Trees, buildings or spectator stands surrounding your turf cast shade and limit the energy a plant can produce for itself. Plants convert light energy into ‘plant-available’ energy such as sugars and carbohydrates. By cutting off sunlight you are cutting off the potential energy available for each plant and weakening it.

Think of grass plant leaves like mini solar panels – without sufficient sunlight they cannot produce enough energy to keep a healthy plant alive.

Removal of trees you will often also allow better airflow around the plant.

This can be just enough to keep the leaf a little bit drier which can reduce disease. Leaf moisture is a key element for Microdochium development.

Apps such as Sun Seeker show the path of the sun and just how little sunlight turf often receives The public perception is planting trees is a great idea and removing trees is some form of ‘environmental vandalism’. The truth is sportsturf and trees really are not happy bedfellows. Grass is naturally adapted to open spaces with plenty of light, not shady areas under trees.

There are so many ways of managing turf and no one single correct method.

Manage all the elements as best you can on your site is all you can do. You may still get stress and disease – but it will be much less than it could have been.

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 75

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DAVID WITHERS INTERVIEW

Full steam ahead Iseki UK was launched in 2017 into a rocky economic environment but with exactly the right man steering the ship. Two years on David Withers has proven his worth as a “Captain” and the company, now based in Ipswich, is making steady progress.

“We are up on last year which is pretty good,” said David, in answer to the most obvious of opening questions – “How are you doing?”

“We are going to sell more this year and make less money and the reason for that has been the collapse in the value of the pound.

That’s even more of a problem for a company which brings in all of its goods from Germany and France – 80% Germany and 20% France,” revealed David, who returned to the UK following his time in the States as President and CEO of Jacobsen.

“The economy is not in great shape and causing a lot of uncertainty but the biggest single impact for us is that exchange rate.”

To highlight the point he added that the pound had devalued by 13% in the previous two months and that Iseki had recently been forced to increase its own prices by 3% to 5%.

“We are going to see inflationary pressures coming in and I don’t think that the economy is going to be strong enough for wages to keep up with inflation.”

Like so many other companies Iseki were prepared for the original Brexit timetable of March 31 and had brought in sufficient parts stock to ensure no issues over that period.

“Then it didn’t happen so, having had a good quarter one, when we were doing a lot to prepare, there was

“We are up to about 16 new dealers but we still have some gaps and we have space for another 30 or so.”

a hangover in quarter two and from April things never really got going.

Now we have prepared again and we are once more full of inventory,” said David, speaking a few weeks before the more recent October 31 Brexit date.

The company has secured additional warehouse space, through a relationship with one of the transport companies on the Ipswich Europark with which they share a postcode to cope over the period.

Any issue of delays at ports is not of huge concern to David, given the nature of the Iseki business.

“If our deliveries take an extra week to get through, it will be irritating but it’s not life-threatening,” was his pragmatic view.

As to the wider issue of ensuring the Iseki brand is available the length and breadth of the country the company is making real progress in bolstering its dealer network.

“What has really worked for us is that we have clarified in our minds what our distribution strategy should be. We find that for many of our dealers we are either the simplest and easiest product a dealer sells – because they also deal with combine harvesters or 500 horsepower tractors and forestry harvesters – and we are the lowest value product they sell.

“Conversely, for other dealers, we are at the upper end of their portfolio.

They might be selling products like Mountfield, Honda and Stiga, but don’t have a diesel product other than ours. In these cases we are the most complicated product they sell.”

Many dealers, often classic garden dealers, have been asked if they would like to have a diesel offering in their portfolio.

“We are up to about 16 new dealers but we still have some gaps and we have space for another 30 or so.”

Having spent most of his more recent life at the top end of business life – prior to his time at Jacobsen he was Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen, based just down the road from his new home on that Ipswich Europark – he is enjoying building a new business from the beginning.

“I enjoy the closeness with the market, the customers and our staff whereas before there were layers between me and the other people.

That’s fun. But there are plusses and minuses. I find booking my own travel intensely irritating, as I’d never had to do that before,” he said with a smile.

Another area of potential expansion for the company may come on the back of that new dealer network.

“I look forward to the business growing and having more resource and ability to do things. For example one of the things you might see us doing over the next 12 months is bolt on additional products to our range.

“We have had a lot of people asking us if we could distribute for them. I didn’t want to do that to begin with as It was important to get Iseki moving, but now that we have all the infrastructure in place and our polices and procedures are in order we will look at it.

“It would be products of similar standard and reliability and that which are complementary to our own products.”

All forward thinking moves and proving once again that, when the seas become rough and the waves are high, having a capable Captain is so important.

Iseki UK’s David Withers

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 77

CRICKET GROUNDCARE AWARDS

Cricket Groundcare Awards 2019

And the winners An excellent, if a little damp, presentation day, at Lord’s, was enjoyed by all the winners of the Cricket World and Turf Matters Cricket Groundcare Awards 2019.

The group gathered in the Tavern Stand for the Presentation, which was attended by Chris Wood, ECB Pitch Advisor; Karl McDermott MCC Head Groundsman at Lord’s (a previous Cricket GroundCare Award winner; Alastair Symondson, Cricket World, and Scott MacCallum, Turf Matters.

There were also representatives from the sponsors of the Awards – Richard Fry and Marcus Hewitt, Rigby Taylor; Robert Jack, Dennis and SISIS; Simon Hedley, Boughton Loam, and John Clifford, ISEKI. Following the presentation everyone enjoyed a superb lunch in the legendary Tavern, ironically missing the only cricket that avoided the rain during the day.

The Awards had originally been introduced by Cricket World to recognise the dedication and hard work that groundcare individuals put into maintaining and producing cricket squares

78 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

and outfields, for reactional clubs, schools and universities, in the UK and Ireland without whom there would be no cricket.

They were reintroduced in 2019 with the help of Turf Matters.

Roger Knight, former First Class cricketer and past CEO/ Secretary of the MCC sent a message of congratulations to all those who received awards.

“These are the stalwarts of recreational cricket clubs and schools and we should thank them all – how gratifying it is to see a past winner now taking charge at the Home of Cricket as well.”

“I was delighted to see so many committed and talented groundcare volunteers and professionals, at Lord’s, and to see them recognised for the wonderful work they do to ensure that cricket is played on excellent pitches, at all levels of the recreational game,” said Turf Matters Editor. Scott MacCallum.

“I would l like to thank all the sponsors, Rigby Taylor, Dennis/ SISIS, Iseki and Boughton Loam, without whom it would not have been possible to host these

awards, and the Lords for being such an appropriate and special venue for the presentation.”

Winners

Pete Clark – Alcester & Ragley Park CC. Pete has been volunteering his time to the club for more than 50 years as Head Groundsman and without his commitment and passion for the ground and the club, the club would not exist to this day.

Andy Harris – Buckingham Town CC. Andy has been the groundsman at Buckingham Town for 10 years. In that time the pitches and the ground in general have been prepared to the highest standard. He takes great pride in his work and the quality of the ground is often commented upon by players and spectators alike. Andy was taking a well-earned break in the sun in Greece after toiling all summer at his club Buckingham Town CC Laurie Turner – New Ifield CC. Laurie is in his late 60s and has been involved with New Ifield CC for nearly 52 years initially as a player, then following retirement from actively playing in 1990 he became involved with the maintenance of the playing surface, pavilion and outbuildings as the sole incumbent.

Graham White – Sissinghurst CC. Graham White is a 71 year old ‘volunteer’ groundsman with Sissinghurst CC. Mr White started with the club as a 15 year old player and helping out with cricket pitch preparation and maintenance. At 21 he took on the role of full-time groundsman and also became a committee member.

Graham played for the club for 34 years and at the age of 55 he retired from playing and became even more involved with club life.

At the age of 71 he continues as Head Groundsman and is also the ‘Club Welfare Officer’ and ‘Bar Purchasing Officer’, he has been an active member of Sissinghurst Cricket Club for 50 years.

Cliff Clark – Harlow CC. Joined the club in the late

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are…

1970s as a player then took over groundsmanship around 30 years ago. During that time as well as improving the wicket, he is enlarging it, ground maintenance he also managed and help build our second cricket ground ten years ago in the adjacent Spicers Field being the other side of our club pavilion. During last winter he also helped build an equipment building and it always finding other bits to do to improve not just the playing area but also the club facilities as well.

Nick Bull – North Leeds CC. Nick has tirelessly looked after the ground at North Leeds for several years now, and handles the ever-increasing workload, alongside his day job, impressively.

As the volume of junior cricket increases at our club annually, he manages to make sure that wickets are prepared, marked, cut, rolled and the surrounding areas are kept tidy by his team of, mostly retired, volunteers. He’s also instrumental in the creation of a new small ground we’re developing in our old nets area for Under 5, 7 & 9 cricket in memory of an Under 17 cricketer who sadly passed away last year. The Tom Coupe Oval will be the legacy for such a promising youngster

who lost his life far too soon.

Martyn Crowther – Bradshaw CC. Since taking on the role 4 years ago Martyn has made vast improvements to the ground, especially on the pitch. Martyn has also carried out other invisible improvements, such as replacing drains (saving the club the £1000 quoted for repairs), and aimed to help the environment by planting willow trees along one side to help drainage and improve the aesthetics. He is willing to listen to other team’s groundsmen and act upon their advice. He also puts in many hours that nobody sees, going straight to the ground after work (full time) for several hours, often skipping tea. He gets very little help from the rest of the club.

Martin Woods – Wargrave CC. With 30 years of service and overseeing the relaying of the old square 6 years ago, the club are now hosting minor counties matches for t20, 50 overs and four day games. The guy is a legend for practice wickets on the square to making sure the 70 plus games we host in a season from girls, colts, league, rep matches and Sundays Bob Carder – Stamford School. Bob and his team do an outstanding job on a very limited budget. The dedication

and attention to detail Bob sets are extremely high professional standards. The cricket square and outfields are pristine and are mesmerising to look at. It’s groundsmanship taken back to basics and the basics done well.

Craig Keast – Wells Cathedral School Craig has done a truly outstanding job as Head Groundsman at Wells Cathedral School. He is in his 32nd year of service and continues to produce superb cricket wickets. The main cricket pitch, Cedars has 22 cricket strips with the middle 10, which were laid in 1995, built on a stone raft, when the council decided to drive a road through the school playing fields.

Kent CGA – a special award was presented to the Kent Cricket Ground Association represented

by Peter Robinson, Tony Leach and Peter Aylott.

Above and below: Winners at Lord’s with VIP guests

Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019 | 79

BUYERS’ GUIDE

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COMMENT

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My golfing pals and I have been watching the Extinction Rebellion demonstrations which have caused to much disruption, and created so much publicity, in London and other major cities around the world.

We are of a certain age and quite frankly the planet not making it past 2045 will have no bearing on us, other than not being able to lift a glass of the finest to celebrate any of our 100ths. But we have all agreed not to be selfish. We are but the custodians of our planet, and indeed our golf course, so we have been putting together an action

82 | Turf Matters | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

plan which might help reduce our own golfing carbon footprint and keep the importance of the issue front and centre.

None of us intend to take to the stage along the lines of Greta Thunberg.

With a future ahead of her she is a much more appropriate and eloquent figurehead than old duffers like us.

Much devastation is caused to natural habitat when any of us veer off the fairway, and the flailing of golf clubs, and the hot air which emanates from ears, cannot do any planet any good at all. So between ourselves we have agreed that a local rule – and, if the R&A and the USGA are listening, the rules of the game as well – should be created, giving a free drop at the nearest point to where the ball had entered rough.

Let’s face it. We all love rough, the way the tall fescue sways in the wind and catches the sun, but none of us want to be in it. By staying away it means that the orchids and arachnids get some well deserved peace and quiet.

Now buggies. Petrol or battery they all require energy and the exercise golf gives us is, to be frank, the only exercise most of us get. Losing that by climbing into a buggy is an American innovation which we can well do without - they have added nothing to our wonderful game. Indeed, they are not a sociable way to play the game – we are golfers sharing an occasionally enjoyable experience, not motorists, clad in breathable, gameimprovement clothing and baseball caps.

So we have agreed that one of us, on a

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pre-determined rota, each Saturday will be gaffa taped to the first buggy in the storage shed. For the rest of us it will mean a three-ball rather than the usual four, but sacrifices have to be made.

We have examined the potential consequences. The pro might have to go home for a pair of sheers to cut us down; it might cause the odd Ashworth jumper to become a little bobbly, and we might/probably will end up in front of the committee to explain why we’ve caused the club to lose revenue.

We had considered doing the same for powered caddy cars, but taping ourselves to the front of those might lead to some unfortunate Instagram images.

Creating publicity does have its limits.

Equipment. We are a little torn here. Logic would dictate that returning to ye olden times would see us going back to a more ecofriendly period in golf’s existence, but we are not so sure anymore.

We have done our research on a time before any of us old fogeys had even lifted a club in recreational anger and it seems that the shafts of the original clubs were made out of something called hickory – not steel or even titanium. Further research revealed, astonishingly, that hickory is actually a type of wood.

Furthermore, during our research we uncovered another amazing fact - that “woods”, those slightly longer things upon which to display our novelty head covers, also used to be made out of real wood. I know, it’s hard to believe.

So, when it comes to our equipment we have concluded that the golf manufacturers have been doing their bit to preserve the rain forests since well before Greta was born, never mind started to tick off world leaders.

That said, there are areas in which golf can make other improvements and we as a group intend to push golf to the sporting forefront to preserve our planet – even at our advanced stage in life. *As told to Scott MacCallum

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