2024 Winter Oily Rag

WAITING FOR THE SLOT MACHINE TO LINE UP…

THE BOTTOM LINE

Over the past few months, Witham Group and all the Team here have been super busy as the change from season to season increased demand for our products, lubricants, greases, coolants and paints.

We have, like many other industries, been playing catchup, as the awful spring and early summer wet weather meant many maintenance jobs and vital crop drilling in the agricultural industries simply did not take place or were late at best!

Talking to many of our agricultural contractors, estate owners and managers in the agricultural silo, it has been 'challenging' to say the least, with an analogy given to me which was: "It was at times, like being stood at a slot machine with a pocket full of £1.00 coins, placing one after another into the slot, pressing the button to spin the lines and waiting desperately for the numbers to line up before your pocket runs out of coins!"

Any business decision will ultimately always carry a degree of risk, which we all take on day-to-day as business owners, but when the weather, which none of us can control, makes such a harsh turn, the risk must be spread over more and more different plates which all need spinning to keep in control and without a crash.

We love this challenge at Witham Group and with a great Team we always have and always will relish in all these challenges, so we continue to succeed.

REFINING THE HORSE FOR SUCCESS…

I personally had the honour of visiting an internationally renowned horse Stud farm a few weeks, ago to discuss all the products which we can supply to them, from Woco Barn Paint for the external and internal wooden stabling, to paint for the horse hospital wing, oil for the paddock tractors and Witham ProLan for all the leather and metal tack. We also demonstrated our extensive Witham Wood Preservative range which is now being applied to all the miles and miles of paddock fencing.

It was amazing to have a small insight into what goes into a Stud farm. The genetics they try and pull from one horse to the next making them ever more efficient and stronger. Honing the good bits and taking the bad away over years and years of generations. They work on one strain and follow all the correct steps, but it is not known how successful they are until the first, second, third or even fourth race, or even a second season of races.

If they get it correct, then the rewards are impressive, but if they do not, they simply go back to the drawing board and start over again.

I wondered how this would and could align to our business and think back over the past 103 years and all our own innovations we have honed and brought through. Our evolving practises, such as our Blendtek Solutions - Carbon Neutral Blended Lubricants, all the changes in fuel-efficient

Qualube engine oils, gear oils, power transmitting hydraulic oils, and Woco paints, which once contained nasty carcinogenic ingredients but now outperform the ‘old days’ and have less or zero nasties.

Continued progress, continued fine tuning, continued investment and continued vision, all coupled with a keen desire to serve in the best way we possibly can, is what makes us different to the rest of the Lubricant and Paint industry in our opinion. While many are content to sell just the bare minimum of quality levels, or import product from less than legal sanctioned sources, or even just offer a one day special, rather than all year round service year after year, Witham Group feel it is still so very important to offer the highest quality products at competitive pricing, a service which is second to none and all backed up by the unique Witham Way of doing things.

I could not be prouder of our company, its products, its ethics, its ability to adapt in both the short term and the long term and of course its Team.

THANKFUL FOR FACES OLD & NEW

We have welcomed new faces to Witham Group as the company continues to grow and we look for good people, with good hearts and enthusiastic attitudes to join our company. We have many adventures ahead together and we look forward to introducing a few of them to you, our customers with exciting times ahead.

We have been super busy keeping industry lubricated and painted, supporting trips from Lincolnshire to Gibraltar in a Model T Ford (more on this later), we have celebrated with many others the 30 year anniversary of The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Witham Group have been proud supporters both financially and with products (WOCO paint) for their first hanger on the A15 as you leave the City of Lincoln and have been intrinsically linked with them for all their years.

We have had the pleasure to support many Lincolnshire Young Farmers Clubs with tins of bright paint for their trailer building and county rally competitions. The National YFC movement is something we must all support and speaking on a personal level, I am continually amazed at the commitment these young people have to learning, developing and enjoying themselves in a fun yet charitable way.

GOOD SUPPLIERS ARE CRUCIAL

When my father and the late Alan Smith retired, over 20 years ago now, they sat me down and told me that behind every good company there are your suppliers. ‘Get good suppliers’ they told me, ‘and it will make your life so much easier’. I can remember this being said and thinking as a young man “but are not all suppliers the same and it is the products which surely are different” …. Oh, how I realised just how wrong I was!

We have had the same suppliers for many of our services and products to Witham Group for in some cases two, three, or even four generations. The companies stay the same, or certainly their service levels do, but if they are smart their products evolve. This is what we have with our suppliers, and we hope to mimic our own evolving product offering and remain excellent suppliers to you, our customers. A good supplier should:

» Comply with relevant standards and regulations

» Be accountable for quality issues

» Show expertise in product knowledge

» Have comprehensive record keeping

» Demonstrate innovation

» Keep customers regularly informed

» Strive to continually improve

It is staggering when I meet with some customers who still remember both my grand father and father coming to visit them and we are now introduced to their next generations who will continue to use the reliable products and supported services from our company.

REFLECTING ON SHOW TIME…

The Summer Show season gives us the chance to meet with old and new customers and offer them some good old fashioned Witham hospitality. The old show hospitality unit, which we have used for over 15 years, was starting to ‘show its age’ and needed some investment. We looked at purchasing another ‘new to us’ vehicle, but just could not find anything which fitted with our needs. Therefore, we spoke to our trusted suppliers, designed the concept and with that commissioned the build of a new body to go on the old lorry chassis. It is with huge thanks that this was completed in the

Lincolnshire Young Farmers Club

THE BOTTOM LINE

time it was. Lincoln Commercial Bodies for the new body, Jonathan Crabb Carpentry for the internal work, Lincolnshire Flooring for the intricate floor and wall coverings and Chris Potts Canopy’s for the seating. The final hospitality truck was then sent to trusted graphic sign producer Richard at Signs Express for a full wrap. The results we feel are super

Winning Best Stand at the Lincolnshire Show 2024

The Suffolk Show was one of the best attended events we have had for several years, and we were proud to have one of the leading Global suppliers of Crop Sprayers, AgriFac Sprayers, displaying their flagship machine with our oil inside and paint touching up the inevitable scratches when being used!

The Lincolnshire Show was baked in sunshine and once again our stand design and delivery were recognised by the judges as being the best on the showground in our class. So much work and thought goes into the execution of the exhibition stand but it is the finishing touches of polishing and content which shone through. We were so proud to win the cup again, for an amazing 9th time consecutively in the past 10 years, plus an award for product innovation where the judges were impressed by our thoughtfulness to work with our suppliers to offer a genuinely sustainable alternative to a common everyday product. The award was for our newly launched Qualube Calcium based, Multi-Purpose Grease, which has reduced the need for the extensive mining of Lithium, so creating massive environmental improvements. The judges and ultimately you, our customers, supported our forward thinking product development, which does not comprise in any way on quality, in fact only improves product standards further.

The Lincolnshire Show had a wonderful arrange of different customer's machines on our stand. From award winning crop sprayers to classic cars, innovative drilling machines to a new agricultural waste recycling system, as well as an industry leading trailer. Over the two days, we also had our usual first class hospitality team on hand to offer welcome drinks and refreshments, which were all sourced from our customers and local suppliers.

The Royal Norfolk Show, held at Norwich Showground is the last of the big three shows and we went all out to display our products and services. We welcomed many existing and new customers, and the two days flew by.

Thank you to everyone who was able to visit our exhibition stands and well done to the Witham Team for such an extra effort and great successes over the three big County Shows this year.

BIGGEST IS NOT ALWAYS BEST

Further afield, we have been busy representing the Company and the Lubricants Industry at both UK and European levels with meetings in London, Antwerp, and Brussels this quarter. We have, as an industry, discussed the ongoing issues of suspected imported sanctioned products into the UK through different avenues. Some of our competitors and end users are turning a blind eye to the important rules or sources of their raw material products, which are heavily discounted and of dubious quality in some cases. As both an industry and as a company we are trying to educate where we can and support our customers also, whilst continuing to feedback to the relevant bodies trying to stop this influx of products.

On one visit to Antwerp, we were treated to a tour of the global manufacturing plant of one of the largest oil companies in the world. Although the company is competition in the truest sense, we also have a common goal to make the best lubricants we can. It was fascinating to see the scale of their business compared to Witham Group. In one area, I was impressed to see that between their bulk oil tanks and their blending vessels, they had more oil in the pipework alone than we can blend in our largest blending tank!! They supply thousands of customers worldwide and all processes were robotic, it was simply staggering.

of Europe’s biggest lubricant manufacturing sites based

One

in Antwerp

However, when I spoke to them about our services, such as made to measure small bulk storage tanks, individual lubrication surveys, small run own-label packaging, small minimum order quantities, personal sales executives in each county, human at the ends of the phone, treating everyone the same, no matter how big or small, they looked at us with some interest and certain respect for what we do. Even at their HQ in Holland, they had heard of our Witham Group services and the unique way we carried out business. The simple analogy is there is a place for everyone when service and product quality is so important to the customer.

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR 2025

We have a busy few months ahead to navigate, but we have many exciting plans for the year of 2025, with new products, new challenges, prospecting new sustainable product lines and new markets to expand further into, environmental objectives to complete, new marketing activities and new services for our customers. Of course, underpinning all of these is simply looking after our existing customers day in day out, helping to grow their business and ensure we deliver on our promises.

We are pleased to be gaining further momentum into new industries, such as industrial manufacturing and the green energy sector, and learning always to try to understand the issues and pressures that all the many sectors we supply are under. We will continue to appreciate all the factors affecting your businesses as customers and do our very best to support you with innovative solutions.

Thank you to everyone who is involved in or who supports our company and its products, either in a small way or large, I am immensely proud and grateful to you all.

Enjoy this edition of the Witham Oily Rag and as always we would love to hear from you, with your news, your feedback on our products and what we can do further to help you.

Thank you and best wishes

WITHAM SHOW TIME!

A SUCCESSFUL SUMMER OF COUNTY SHOWS

We had a fantastic summer displaying all our products and services at this year’s county shows across the region. It was wonderful to connect with so many of you and share our latest offerings. From the bright sunshine to the occasional downpour, our team persevered through it

all to create exceptional show stands. Your support and enthusiasm made these events a huge success.

Thank you for visiting our stands and learning more about Witham Group. We look forward to seeing you at future events!

We had a triumphant few days at the Lincolnshire Showground, winning prestigious awards and showcasing our latest products and services. The team was thrilled to receive the Joseph Nickerson Cup for Best Agricultural Stand and the Best New or Improved Product award for our innovative Calcium Grease Range. Additionally, Ops Director Ian Wright's second-place finish in the Michael Peacock Rising Star Award was a source of great pride for the company.

Thank you to our customers and partners for being part of our stand; including Sands Agricultural Machinery, Bailey Trailers, Pioneer Plant, Truckmasters Handling Ltd, Agri.Cycle Limited and the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance.

Kicking off the county Show season, was our fantastic two days at the Suffolk Show, in Ipswich. A huge thank you to our guest exhibitors; Agrifac UK Sprayers and Thurlow Nunn Standen who lent us their superb sprayer and nifty compact tractor, both of which use our products. We are also grateful to all our customers who took the time to visit our stand – it was fantastic to catch up with old friends and meet some new faces.

The Royal Norfolk Show was a resounding success for the Witham Group team!

We enjoyed perfect weather and were honoured to welcome His Royal Highness

The Duke of Gloucester to our stand, as well as other dignitaries and valued customers. A special thanks to our guest exhibitors, Sands Agricultural Machinery and Truckmasters Handling Ltd, for joining us and contributing to the lively atmosphere.

WITHAM GROUP NEWS

NEW PIPEWORK INVESTMENT FOR OUR BASE OIL TANKS

We are pleased to inform you that we are investing in a significant upgrade to the pipework of our external bulk base oil tanks, which are situated at the back of our four acre site at our Lincoln factory.

Each tank has the capacity to hold up to 45 tonnes of base oil, making sure we always have the raw material on hand to provide a speedy and reliable supply of finished products. Base oil is the primary ingredient in lubricant manufacturing, making up the majority of their composition. It serves as the foundational fluid that carries additives and provides the essential lubricating properties. Base oils are categorised into three main types:

� Mineral Oils: Derived from refined crude oil, these are the most commonly used base oils in lubricants. They are further divided into Group I, II, and III, depending on their refining process and purity.

� Synthetic Oils: These are chemically engineered base oils, often offering superior performance in extreme

temperatures, better oxidation stability, and longer service life. They include polyalphaolefins (PAOs), esters, and other synthetic variants.

� Vegetable Oils: Used in environmentally friendly lubricants, these are derived from plant-based sources like soybean or sunflower oil, offering biodegradability and low toxicity.

Each type of base oil has different characteristics, affecting the overall performance of the lubricant, such as viscosity, stability, and resistance to oxidation.

We will be replacing the pipework over the coming months in several stages to ensure no disruption to our operations. This investment will ensure Witham can continue to supply a fast and reliable service of British blended lubricants for many years to come.

SHOP DISPLAYS: SUMMER OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

If you have visited our Soham trade centre recently, you will have seen our shop front display area is packed with everything you need to transform your outdoor space, from vibrant paints to durable wood stains, we have the perfect products to elevate your business, home and garden. Products that have been on display include:

» Trade Masonry Paint: Give your exterior walls a fresh coat of durable and long-lasting paint.

» Woodstain: Protect and enhance your wooden surfaces with a variety of beautiful finishes.

» Deck Paint: Restore your deck to its former glory with our high-quality deck paint.

» Multi-Surface Paint: Tackle a variety of surfaces with this versatile paint.

We are well stocked with a wide variety of products for outdoor projects for customers wishing to protect exterior woodwork for the winter. All these products can be ordered to delivery via your sales executive, over the telephone or by visiting Soham depot directly.

WITHAM GROUP MAKES A SPLASH AT THE FLINTHAM SHOW & PLOUGHING MATCH

Despite a rainy day, the Witham Group team had a successful outing at the annual Flintham and District Ploughing Match & Show in Lincolnshire. The event, which has been a staple of the local agricultural calendar for over a century, drew a large crowd eager to witness impressive ploughing demonstrations, explore vintage farming equipment, and enjoy a variety of food and drink options.

We were joined by Woldmarsh, who offered expert advice on agricultural purchasing. The combined team had a steady stream of visitors throughout the day, engaging in informative conversations and building stronger relationships with customers.

While the rain may have added a touch of mud to the proceedings, it didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the competitors or the spectators. The event showcased the skill and dedication of the region's farmers, who demonstrated their mastery of the plough in a series of matches.

NEW SALES EXECUTIVE AT SOHAM

WE WELCOME OUR NEW GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Congratulations to Soham depot's John Cotterill who has recently been promoted to Sales Executive. John has worked for us for several years in the office and trade depot and is now delighted to join our sales team and support customers in the Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Norfolk areas. Well done to John for his hard work and commitment earned him this exciting opportunity.

We have also welcomed back a familiar face, as Lewis Firek returns to the Soham office as a Sales Administrator, where he will be answering the phone to customers, serving in the shop, assisting in the warehouse and a whole host of other tasks to support the Soham business.

We are delighted to welcome Nathan Ingle to the marketing team as our new Graphic Designer. Nathan started in August and will be a great asset to us as we help support our business and customers. He brings a wealth of skills to us with over 20 years of design and marketing experience and will be working on our Own Label service, creating packaging designs for customers wanting to sell their own branded oil (manufactured by Witham). He will also be working on all aspects of the marketing team’s projects including packaging design for all the thousands of products we provide, as well as this Oily Rag and loads more!

A NEW RADIO CAMPAIGN FOR SOHAM!

Our Soham depot is soon to be featured on the radio in a new campaign to promote our lubricants and paints. Listen in on Greatest Hits Radio in Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk to hear what our Soham depot has to offer.

JOHN COTTERILL

NATHAN INGLE

LEWIS FIREK

WITHAM GROUP WEBSITE CONTENT UPDATE

We’re thrilled to introduce an improved customer experience on our newly upgraded website. With a fresh, user-friendly design, faster navigation, and enhanced features, accessing our services and products is now easier than ever.

Explore our streamlined interface, enjoy quicker access to the information you need, and experience seamless browsing on any device.

We have focused on enhancing product descriptions and highlighting key benefits, adding more visuals to showcase our products, and implementing a new “YOU MAY ALSO LIKE” related product tool to help customers navigate through the site. The shop side of the website is now more structured and easier to use so we hope you all see the benefits. Even if you are a trade account customer and deal directly with our sales team or offices, the website offers lots of helpful information such as:

» Online Lubricant Finder: This gives you the correct recommendation for all your oil and coolant needs.

» Downloads & Resources Section: This provides online, page turning product brochures, current and previous issues of our Oily Rag magazines,

» Technical Guides & Specifications.

» Our Environmental, Core Values & Business Codes of Conduct.

» About Us: The history of our business and what we

We will soon be publishing a new Lubricants Product brochure, which will provide all our customers with an up to date guide to all our lubricants and greases. The new brochure lists all our latest products, with their relevant specifications, sizes and descriptions and are all easily laid out in product type sections.

All our Qualube lubricants are designed to enhance machinery performance, reduce wear, and extend equipment lifespan, so offering significant cost savings and operational efficiency. Watch out for the new brochure coming soon via our depots, sales team and website.

WITHAM GROUP NEWS

PACKAGING WASTE

EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY (EPR)

As environmental concerns grow, the regulation of packaging waste has become a critical aspect of corporate responsibility. To ensure our company aligns with global sustainability goals, we are ensuring that all Witham employees understand the key principles behind Packaging Waste Regulation and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Packaging Waste Regulation refers to laws and guidelines designed to minimise the environmental impact of our packaging materials. These regulations generally aim to reduce waste, encourage recycling, and promote the use of sustainable materials. Witham Group are required to manage the entire life cycle of our packaging, from production and distribution to disposal and recycling.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach that holds us accountable for the environmental impact of our products throughout the product life cycle.

Adhering to Packaging Waste Regulations and EPR policies is not just about compliance, it's about demonstrating our commitment to sustainability. By taking responsibility for our packaging, we can reduce waste, lower our environmental footprint, and meet the expectations of our customers and regulators.

Whilst we have been adhering to the Packaging Waste Regulations for several years, the Extended Producer Responsibility is a fairly new legislation that we are adapting our processes towards to ensure both our customers, and the Witham Group remain compliant.

INTRODUCING TENG TOOLS: NOW IN STOCK

We are excited to announce the arrival of the new Teng Tools range at Witham Soham. This renowned brand offers a comprehensive range of high-quality hand tools and storage solutions, designed to meet the demanding needs of professionals in the automotive, maintenance, and engineering industries.

Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a passionate motorsport enthusiast, Teng Tools have something to offer. Their products are renowned for their precision, durability, and ergonomic design, making them the choice of top mechanics worldwide.

We are stocking a small selection of everyday tools, with the complete range available to order to meet any specific requirements. Please let your customers know, we will be promoting this in the next Oily Rag for customers.

EXPANDING OUR DELIVERY SERVICES

We have recently expanded our delivery capabilities to include ADR (Accord Dangereux Routier) shipments in our Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. Fully equipped to handle up to 1000kg of ADR products (such as paint), our van is now available to deliver any last-minute urgent orders to customers.

This new service allows us to safely transport hazardous or dangerous goods, ensuring compliance with all UK and European regulations. As our business continues to grow and we supply larger quantities of paint to customers such as Bailey Trailers, Sands Sprayers and other equipment manufacturers, the need for ADR approved vehicles and drivers has become increasingly important.

WITHAM GROUP CONTINUES TO EXCEL IN ISO STANDARDS

We are delighted to announce that the Witham Group has successfully maintained its ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications following a recent two-day audit. The audit team conducted a thorough assessment to verify that our management system is effectively addressing or exceeding

We are pleased to report that our system continues to meet the standards and criteria outlined in the audit report. As a result of this positive assessment, the Witham Group has been recommended for continued certification to both ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

THE ANNUAL WITHAM CALENDAR IS ON IT'S WAY, SO GET READY TO SMILE!

Every year we produce a new calendar which is sent to customers who have bought from us in recent times. The 2025 Witham Group Calendar is here and this year's theme is, "Always giving you a reason to smile". The calendar and its images celebrate how our lubricants and paints make machinery and vehicles happy. Every month has a different application or reason to smile based on our various products. We hope you enjoy our “cheeky images” and hang up the calendar to make you smile over the year ahead.

THE NEXT STEPS IN OUR ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS

As an established manufacturer in the UK’s lubricants industry, we have long been recognised for our innovation and quality products. However, in recent years, the company has emerged as a leading light in the fight to reduce carbon emissions and invent innovative ways to be a more sustainable business.

W O RKINGWITH THE ENVIRONM E TN WITHAM GROUP ENVIRONMENT UPDATE

Here we summarise some of our progress over the past few years and what the next steps will be over the months ahead….

NEW FOCUS ON OUR MEASURING AND MONITORING

Our commitment to sustainability begins with our product development. The company has made a significant shift towards developing environmentally friendly lubricants and related products. This includes an extensive range of fuel-efficient truck, van and passenger car lubricants, plus biodegradable products and Witham ProLan Lubricant for maintenance plus many others, that minimise environmental harm when used in various industrial applications, including agriculture, marine, horticulture and green energy industries.

CARBON REDUCTION AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Another key area where the Witham Group has made strides is in our carbon reduction. Using our ultrasonic Blendtek solutions system and investing in solar based technology, we have been able to demonstrate an unrivalled level energy efficiency in both our production processes and facilities.

By developing our unique ultrasound technology and using it instead of fossil fuel energy in our blending and manufacturing process we have drastically reduced our gas consumption by over 93%. We have been able to significantly reduce our carbon footprint in a way that is leading in the lubricant industry and will continue to measure and monitor this achievement going forward.

WASTE MANAGEMENT AND RECYCLING INITIATIVES

Effective waste management is another cornerstone of Witham Group's environmental strategy. The company actively promotes a circular economy model, where waste materials are recycled and repurposed whenever possible. By reducing waste at every stage of production, from raw material sourcing to packaging, Witham Group is taking significant steps to minimise its impact on landfills.

The company's lubricants are packaged in containers made from a growing percentage of recycled materials, further contributing to the reduction of plastic waste. Additionally, we promote responsible disposal and recycling of used oils and lubricants, encouraging our customers to do the same.

LOOKING AHEAD: THE NEXT STEPS

We are now working hard to take the next steps on our environmental improvement journey. This will include the establishment of a supply chain management system that will keep records of all our suppliers and their own credentials for sustainability, social and corporate governance. We are also going to be measuring and monitoring the carbon footprint produced by the different products we produce so we can see what effect each type of product we make has on our carbon footprint. By integrating green initiatives into our core business operations, Witham Group is demonstrating that environmental progress and business success can go hand in hand. As the company continues on this path, we are proud to stand out as a key player within our industry in driving positive change for the environment.

FACTORY TOURS & VISITS

LEARN ABOUT THE WORLD OF LUBRICANTS

If you like vehicles, machinery, engineering or engines, then finding out about how lubricants are made is what we do best. We are delighted to welcome visitors throughout the year to our Lincoln HQ and manufacturing factory. From car clubs, young farmers, engineers, college students, apprentices, mechanics, classic and vintage car owners, to farming groups as well as distributors or just interested customers, visitors get lubricants explained, a history of the Witham Group and all the industries and sectors we work in as well as technical Q&A sessions, bespoke to the audience.

Along with some fun and good old fashioned Witham hospitality, we explain all about how lubricants are made, show how we take raw materials and blend with unique processes and additives to create all the different “recipes” that result in the wide variety of lubricants you can buy off the shelf.

The importance of using the right oil for the right application and what can go wrong if you don’t.

SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE JAGUAR CLUB'S VISIT

We had a fantastic time hosting the South Lincolnshire Region Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club for a factory tour and talk recently. Feedback from attendees was very positive, with the chairman commenting: “We had a fascinating tour and talk at Witham Group; thank you Nigel Bottom for hosting us. It is great for our members to know that whatever type of Jaguar they own, Witham make the right lubricants for their car and all their products are made and tested to ensure that they match the OEM standards".

We are also happy to come out and present to your audience at your own venue, often giving evening talks to clubs and societies throughout the UK. If you would like to book your club, business or college or other association in for a Witham Factory Talk and Tour or presentation contact us at: enquiries@withamgroup.co.uk

BOMBER COUNTY MINIS VISIT WITHAM HQ

We enjoyed hosting the Bomber County Minis, a Lincolnshire classic mini club, for a factory tour in the summer. It was a real treat to see their stunning classic Minis parked outside our headquarters.

FLOOR PAINTS

Our Koverflor range of floor and line marking paints are manufactured to aid cleaning, resist marking and stains, providing attractive long lasting finishes to hard worked areas. Available in a variety of popular colours, our paints are easily applied giving a robust

and hard wearing, long lasting finish. Manufactured to give highly reliable transformations to workshop floors, showrooms, parking bays, factory floors, dairies, stables, kennels, veterinary clinics, tennis courts, offices and so much more...

For

If

or

please email us or call us for friendly, expert help.

WITHAM IN THE NEWS

As well as all the successful coverage of our Gun Care Range we mention on page 50, we have also been busy promoting the Witham Group brand and stories across many different customer sectors which has helped generate some great publicity for the company.

AGRICULTURAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT

In July, Witham Group was featured in a prominent article in Farmers Mart Magazine. The article focused on the importance of high-quality lubricants in modern agriculture.

Nigel Bottom was quoted in the article, sharing his expert insights on the role of lubricants in ensuring optimal

TOP HARVEST TIPS SHARED BY FARMER'S GUIDE

Our top tips for pre-harvest machinery preparation were prominently featured on the Farmers Guide website, e-shot, and social media platforms during July and August. This helped spread awareness of the essential machinery maintenance steps farmers can take to ensure a successful harvest season and what products we have to help.

TOM LAMB'S WORKSHOP UPGRADE WITH NEW OIL STORAGE TANKS

Many thanks to one of our farming customers Tom Lamb who recently posted a great video showcasing the upgrades he's made to his agricultural workshop. One of the standout features was his new colour-coded bulk storage lubricant tanks, which we were proud to supply. These tanks not only streamline his operations but also contribute to a cleaner, safer and more efficient working environment. Please go to Tom's YouTube Channel to view the video and see the full transformation of his workshop.

PX FARMS RECOMMENDS WITHAM LUBRICANTS IN ONLINE SURVEY

One of our long standing farming customers, PX Farms, a 12,000-acre agribusiness based in Cambridgeshire, recently posted a video to their YouTube channel to explain how their Witham Lubricant Survey is benefiting their business. PX Farms are a regular uploader of useful, practical tips on farming and what they get up to over the agricultural year.

In order to help rationalise their fleet we conducted a thorough assessment of their entire fleet of cars, trucks and machinery. Our experts then determined the exact lubricants needed for each vehicle, covering engine, hydraulic, gear oils, brake fluid and more.

Like all our free lubricant surveys, this comprehensive information was then clearly outlined in a dedicated folder, ensuring everyone on their team has easy access, reducing the risk of oil mix-ups and helped make it easy for the farm’s workshop team to know what is needed for each type of machinery.

You can watch the full video on our Latest News Blog and contact us if you would like an up to date survey of your fleet.

Read more about PX Farms on pages 56-58.

WITHAM FEATURED IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WORKSHOP MAGAZINE

Witham Group was highlighted in the August issue of Commercial Vehicle Workshop magazine. Our expertise in the lubricant industry was sought out by the editors for an article titled "The rise of less scrupulous resellers of lubricants."

As a trusted source in the field, we were asked to provide our insights on the current state of lubricant supply and the ethical concerns surrounding some companies.

As a lubricant manufacturer, we are members of the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) and the United Kingdom Lubricants Association (UKLA) and are committed to ensuring quality, reliability, and ethical business practices within the lubricant industry.

NEW PAINT PARTNERSHIP WITH PHILIP WATKINS LTD

We are excited to announce that Philip Watkins Ltd, a valued customer of our oil products, has expanded their business with us by switching to our 2K Isocyanate free paint system.

Philip Watkins Ltd are manufacturers of Agricultural Machinery and are also agricultural equipment modification and refurbishment specialists, based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

After identifying areas where our products could offer improvements over their previous supplier, we conducted a successful demonstration of our trusted and popular paint system. Impressed by the results, Philip Watkins Ltd decided

to transition their entire paint supply to Witham Group to use on the painting of their machinery.

To enhance their painting process, they also invested in a new air assist spray pump, following our recommendations. This investment has significantly improved their efficiency and we are proud to now be supplying the following Woco paint products to Philip Watkins Ltd:

Products Supplied:

� Woco TDS 625 2k ISO FREE Epoxy Primer

� Woco TDS 678 2K ISO FREE Acrylic / Epoxy Topcoat

WITHAM GROUP WELCOMES BACK GOLDSTAR METAL TRADERS

We are delighted to announce that Goldstar Metal Traders, a leading metal recycling company based in Cambridgeshire, has returned to the Witham Group. We previously worked with Goldstar at a single depot, but we are thrilled to have regained their business across all three of their sites in Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

Goldstar specialises in metal recycling and the responsible deconstruction of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their ability to reclaim and recycle an impressive 20,000 tonnes of metal each month.

Recycling is an ever growing part of our economy and its an interesting fact that one single recycled aluminium can, saves enough energy to power a TV for 3 hours. By partnering with Goldstar, Witham Group is proud to contribute to a more sustainable future and support the circular economy.

WOCO’S TWIN PACK PAINT SYSTEM WINS FARM ELECTRONICS LTD

We are excited to announce the addition of Farm Electronics Ltd to our customer base. Farm Electronics Ltd specialises in manufacturing refrigerated cooling, ventilation, and electronic control systems for crop storage solutions and are based on the outskirts of Grantham, Lincs. Following an initial phone enquiry, we visited their facility to discuss potential improvements to their paint supply.

The company was facing challenges with their current paint supplier, due to excessive overspray and clogging issues in their new spray booth. Their existing single-pack paint system, while less expensive, lacked the benefits of a twopack system.

After a successful demonstration of our Woco 2K paint system, Farm Electronics Ltd decided to switch to Witham Group as their exclusive paint supplier. We are proud to now supply the paint for the Louvre units that are installed on the exterior walls of buildings. Our products offer superior performance, reduced overspray, and improved efficiency, aligning perfectly with their specific needs.

Products used:

� Woco TDS 625 2K ISO FREE Epoxy primer

� Woco TDS 678 2K ISO FREE Acrylic / Epoxy Topcoat

A DISCOVERY OF WITHAM HISTORY

Recently, a remarkable discovery, brought a piece of Witham history full circle. During a clean-up at Neville Barnes Limited, based in Upton, near Gainsborough, a vintage hand-painted sign advertising Witham Woco Paint was unearthed.

This nostalgic relic, once used to promote our products to the local community, has been carefully restored and now proudly hangs in the village shop. Neville Barnes, the original blacksmith who founded the business in the 1930s, played a crucial role in supporting local farmers during World War II. Today, the company has evolved into a thriving Country Store and Village Shop, continuing to serve the community it has been a part of for generations.

The rediscovery of this vintage sign is a great testament to the enduring legacy of Witham Group and our commitment to serving the local community.

CUSTOMER STORIES

TAILORED SOLUTION FOR A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE GARAGE

We recently provided a comprehensive solution for a commercial vehicle garage in Cambridgeshire. The company had been purchasing hydraulic oil in 1000-litre IBCs, which posed storage and spillage concerns.

To address these issues, we supplied them with a state-ofthe-art 3200-litre, twin-skinned storage tank, bunded so the oil can be stored outside. This tank offers enhanced safety and environmental protection. To complement the tank, we also provided a Samoa 3-1 tank-mounted pump kit, a 15-metre hose reel, and a digital hose end metre.

This tailored solution will streamline the company’s operations, reduce storage space requirements, and minimise the risk of oil spills. For more information about our oil storage solutions or lubricant equipment pump and reels, please get in touch.

WITHAM BARRELS SHOWCASE CUSTOMER STANDS AT ROYAL NORFOLK SHOW

We were delighted to see our oil barrels put to innovative use at the Royal Norfolk Show in the summer. Two of our valued customers, Monk Plant Hire and Simon's Landscapes, cleverly incorporated our barrels into their show stands, transforming them into functional tables and seats. It's a testament to the quality and durability of our oil barrels that they could be repurposed in such a unique and eye catching way and looked great for their show stand.

FARM CONTAINER GETS A SUPERCOTE REFRESH!

One of our farming customers recently sought to enhance the appearance of their storage container to better match their existing farm buildings. We recommended our popular Woco Supercote undercoat in white and Woco Supercote topcoat in RAL 7044 to achieve a seamless integration.

The container now blends seamlessly with the surrounding structures, creating a cohesive and visually appealing farm landscape. This successful project showcases the versatility and durability of our Woco Supercote products, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, including agricultural equipment and structures.

We recently provided a solution to enhance the operations of Pearn Wyatt, a local farming and haulage company based in Snetterton in Norfolk. The company was seeking a more efficient way to dispense gear oils for their fleet maintenance.

To address their needs, we supplied them with a Samoa barrel 3-1 wall-mounted pump kit. This robust and reliable pump allows for easy and controlled dispensing of gear oils. Additionally, we included a digital metered end to ensure accurate fills during servicing, improving efficiency and reducing waste.

By implementing this solution, Pearn Wyatt can now dispense gear oils more quickly and precisely, leading to streamlined maintenance processes and cost savings.

IMPROVING EFFICIENCY FOR PEARN WYATT

BULK STORAGE TANKS

BULK STORAGE FOR A CLEANER WORKSHOP

SIMPLE CLEAN AND EASY TO USE

As part of our service, we can supply a range of specialist bulk storage tanks for workshops and outbuildings. We can help advise on the best way to install the tanks - which for standard sizes are free of charge! (Subject to a technical lubrication survey). Your lubricants are filled up in the colour coded tanks as required, and the tanks have sight gauges, taps or pumps and come labelled with the different product names and their application.

Simple, clean and easy to use, these tanks help keep your working space ship-shape, avoid spills from containers, helps avoid important oil contamination and helps the environment by using less packaging. They also provide important health & safety requirements for lubricant storage. Simple clean and easy to use.

THE BENEFITS OF BULK STORAGE TANKS

ARE:

� Keeps workshops clean and tidy

� Helps the environment by using less container packaging

� Creates more space in workshops and garages

� Easy to distinguish different lubricants for various uses

� Helps avoid oil spills and contamination

� Long lasting storage solution - with good maintenance these will last up to 50 years.

NEW BULK STORAGE TANKS AT SPITFIRE ENGINEERING

We are pleased to announce the successful installation of two new bulk storage tanks at Spitfire Engineering in Northamptonshire. A long-standing customer of our paint products, Spitfire Engineering sought to streamline their oil supply process by switching to bulk deliveries.

After careful consideration of their specific requirements, we determined the ideal tank size and oil type to meet their needs. Our swift delivery from our Soham facility ensured a seamless transition. To aid inventory management, our lorry driver marked the tanks at the halfway point (200 litres), providing a clear visual indicator for reorder timing.

The positive feedback from Spitfire Engineering underscores our commitment to providing exceptional customer service and tailored solutions. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership and supporting their future needs.

LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH SANDERS COACHES

Witham Group is proud to have supplied our oil to Sanders Coaches in Norfolk. For over three decades, we have been a reliable supplier of essential products and services to this well-respected coach company.

Our recent delivery of a quantity of 100 gallon, singleskinned storage tanks to Sanders Coaches' workshop further strengthens our commitment to supporting their operations. These tanks will provide a safe and efficient storage solution for their workshop needs.

UNRAVELLING STRENGTH

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO WIRE ROPE LUBRICANTS

Wire ropes are critical components in many industries, including construction, mining, shipping, and offshore drilling, where they are used to lift, pull, and suspend heavy loads. These ropes are composed of numerous strands of steel wire twisted together, which makes them

strong and durable but also prone to friction, wear, and corrosion. To ensure safe and effective operation, wire ropes must be properly lubricated to avoid disastrous consequences and here we explain why using a trusted product might just save the day.

WHY LUBRICATION IS ESSENTIAL FOR WIRE ROPES

1. REDUCING FRICTION AND WEAR: Wire ropes are made up of multiple strands that move relative to each other under load. This movement generates friction between the strands, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Lubrication reduces this internal friction, ensuring that the wires move smoothly against each other, thus minimizing wear and prolonging the life of the rope. Without proper lubrication, the friction can cause the strands to wear down, leading to a weakened rope and potential failure during operation.

2. PREVENTING CORROSION: Wire ropes are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as moisture, saltwater, and chemicals, which can cause corrosion. Corrosion weakens the rope, making it less capable of handling loads and increasing the risk of failure. Lubricants form a protective barrier around the rope's surface and inner strands, preventing water, salt,

and other corrosive substances from penetrating and damaging the metal.

3. MAINTAINING FLEXIBILITY: Wire ropes need to maintain flexibility to function safely and efficiently. Over time, wear and corrosion can make the rope stiff and brittle. Lubrication helps keep the strands of the rope flexible, allowing them to bend and move without becoming rigid. This is particularly important in dynamic applications, such as cranes or elevators, where the rope must move continuously under load.

4. REDUCING HEAT BUILD-UP: In heavy-duty applications, wire ropes are subjected to high levels of tension and friction, which can generate heat. Excessive heat buildup can degrade the rope's strength and cause premature wear. Proper lubrication helps dissipate heat, preventing damage to the rope and reducing the risk of failure.

KEY QUALITIES OF WIRE ROPE LUBRICANTS

Not all lubricants are suitable for wire ropes. The right lubricant must possess specific characteristics to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here are the key qualities to look for:

1. PENETRATION: A good wire rope lubricant must penetrate deep into the rope’s core, where the internal strands are most vulnerable to wear and corrosion. Lubricants that only coat the surface won’t provide adequate protection. Penetrating lubricants are usually oil-based, designed to seep into the core and protect the internal wires.

2. ADHESION: The lubricant must have good adhesive properties to stay on the rope, even under extreme conditions. Wire ropes are often subjected to constant motion, tension, and exposure to water or other

PREPARE FOR A SAFE & RELIABLE PERFORMANCE

Wire ropes are a vital part of many industries, and their failure can lead to serious safety risks and operational disruptions. Proper lubrication is essential to ensure that wire ropes perform reliably and safely. The right lubricant must penetrate the core, resist corrosion and water, and stay in place under extreme conditions. By choosing the correct lubricant and applying it regularly, operators can extend the service life of their wire ropes, enhance safety, and reduce maintenance costs. Witham Group understands that these lubricant requirements are key to producing products that not only meet performance standards but also contribute to safer and more efficient operations. Contact us today about our trusted Qualube Wire Rope Lubricants or visit our website to find out more.

liquids, so the lubricant must remain in place to provide continuous protection. High-viscosity lubricants or greases are commonly used for this purpose, as they cling to the wire surface better than thin oils.

3. CORROSION RESIS TANCE: Corrosion is one of the most common causes of wire rope failure, especially in marine or industrial environments where the ropes are exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or humidity. The lubricant should offer excellent corrosion protection by forming a protective barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the rope. Grease-based lubricants are typically preferred in marine applications due to their superior resistance to water washout.

4. WATER RESIS TANCE: For wire ropes used in wet or marine environments, water resistance is crucial. The lubricant should repel water and prevent it from penetrating the rope. This is important not only for preventing corrosion but also for avoiding the displacement of the lubricant itself by water. Marinegrade lubricants are specifically formulated to resist water washout, ensuring long-lasting protection.

5. TEMPERATURE STABILITY: Wire ropes used in extreme environments—whether high-temperature industrial settings or cold climates—require lubricants that can maintain their performance across a wide range of temperatures. A lubricant that becomes too thick in cold conditions or too thin in heat will not provide adequate protection. Therefore, temperature stability is a key consideration for ensuring consistent lubrication in diverse working environments.

6. COMPATIBILITY WITH EXISTING LUBRICANTS: Sometimes, wire ropes may need to be re-lubricated during their service life. It’s important that the new lubricant is compatible with any residual lubricant left on the rope to avoid chemical reactions that could degrade performance. Using lubricants that are designed to work in tandem with others ensures the rope continues to perform optimally.

WITHAM GROUP'S WIRE ROPE LUBRICANTS

COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND FUNDRAISING

SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF BRITISH FARMING

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible young talent within our agricultural and countryside community! For over 60 years, Witham Group has been immensely proud to support many Young Farmers clubs across the country and we believe in investing in the future of this vital industry and all its related businesses and associations is of the utmost importance.

Led by young people, for young people, UK Young Farmers’ Clubs provide their 23,000 members aged 10 to 28 with a unique opportunity to develop skills, training, work with their local communities, travel abroad, take part in a varied competitions programme and enjoy a dynamic social life.

SUPPORTING LINCOLNSHIRE YOUNG FARMERS (YFC)

Recently, we had the pleasure of supporting Lincolnshire Young Farmers by donating giant letters for their events throughout the year. These versatile props are sure to add some fun and excitement to their gatherings!

We also wanted to lend a hand to the creative minds behind the decorated trailers competition at the Lincolnshire Show. Our Woco paint proved to be a popular choice among the clubs, helping them bring this year’s ‘Children’s TV’ theme to life. A massive congratulations to Heckington & Sleaford Young Farmers’ Club for taking first place, Spilsby Young Farmers Club for coming second, and Harmston Young Farmers for placing third and we were delighted that they all used Witham Woco paint!

We are equally proud to have sponsored the Harmston Young Farmers Tug of War team. Their hard work and dedication paid off this year with some fantastic results – they competed in East Midlands Area Young Farmers

Junior Tug of War, and were placed 2nd and we received a wonderful thank you card from them too all in their Witham sponsored specially padded tug of war shirts.

We don’t just support with oil and paint though, we offer informative visits and tours of our Witham Head Office and Factory where the next generation of engineers, farmers and horticulturists, land agents, agronomists and so much more, can learn about the vital part that lubricants play in the performance and protection of land machinery and equipment

SUPPORTING OTHER CLUBS FURTHER AFIELD

Our support is also not just in Lincolnshire, from Norfolk to Cambridgeshire, Essex to Northamptonshire we have tried to support as many clubs as possible. It’s truly inspiring to see the passion and enthusiasm of these Young Farmers, and we are honoured to play a small part in their journey, learning and fun.

WITHAM SUPPORTS VINTAGE TRACTOR RUN

On the 4th of June, 14 vintage tractors set off from Farmer Brown’s Ice Cream, at Huttoft in Lincolnshire. The plan was to drive around the border of Lincolnshire, stopping at various places on the way. It took 5 days and 350 miles. Witham supported the event with top up oil and coolants for the tractors. The chosen charities are Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and St Andrews Hospice at Grimsby. To date, the total raised for this event is more than £27,000.

Only a couple of minor breakdowns on the trip, a slight fuel leak and a seized dynamo, which were soon rectified. Congratulations to Gavin Motley, who led the convoy on his reverse drive, Woco painted, International tractor, and the rest of the drivers and support crew.

CHARITY RUN

Back in June, this JCB Fastrac set off from Cleethorpes Sea front in Lincolnshire to drive around the coastline of the UK. The event was the idea of Lincolnshire farmers Taron Lee and James Casswell who put together a team of 14 drivers and managed to complete the 4,690-mile journey in an amazing 9 days.

We were proud to support the team with lubricants for any top ups needed, and screen wash to clear the bugs off the windscreen. Proceeds from the event have gone to support the Yellow Wellies Mind Your Head campaign, which promotes mental health awareness in agriculture.

Well done to all involved.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND FUNDRAISING

WOLDMARSH GOLF DAY

We were delighted to support the Woldmarsh Producers and Lincolnshire Rural Support Network, with their annual charity golf day at Elsham golf course. We were lucky to have nice warm weather, for a change, which was welcomed by over 100 players that entered.

We were pleased to support the event with our famous golf themed cupcakes (supplied again by Good Little Party Food from Sudbrooke, near Lincoln) which went down very well with the players and supporters during the half time refreshments!

SWATON VINTAGE DAY AND WORLD EGG THROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS

We were proud to support the Swaton Vintage Day, which was held in June, and was a spectacular event that showcased a diverse array of vintage and classic vehicles. From classic cars and tractors to vintage motorcycles and stationary engines, there was something for everyone to admire. The day drew thousands of visitors of all ages, who enjoyed exploring the various exhibits, indulging in delicious food and drinks, and participating in a variety of activities.

One of the highlights of the event was the World Egg Throwing Championships, now in its 18th year. Competitors from around the globe gathered to test their skills in five different egg-throwing disciplines. The Dutch and German teams, renowned for their exceptional abilities, were particularly strong contenders.

Beyond the championships, the Swaton Vintage Day offered a plethora of entertainment. Visitors could enjoy live music, witness an awe-inspiring Lancaster bomber flypast, and explore a World War I display. For the younger attendees, there were children's games, rides, and a tea tent. And for those seeking a more relaxed experience, the event featured craft stalls, trade stands, and a bar serving refreshing ales to complement the delicious hog roast.

Witham Group was proud to be a sponsor of this remarkable event, which provided a unique and unforgettable experience for all who attended.

WITHAM HELPS LEGSBY PRIMARY SCHOOL BRIGHTEN UP IT’S PLAYGROUND

We recently teamed up with Market Rasen Race Course to give Legsby Primary School in Lincolnshire a colourful playground makeover. The school's outdoor space had seen better days, but with a bit of elbow grease and a splash of colour, it was transformed into a vibrant and inviting area for students to play and learn.

Witham Group donated high-quality Woco Paint to help the school's team add a fresh coat of colour to the playground equipment and surrounding areas. Before the painting began, volunteers worked tirelessly to clear away debris, pressure wash surfaces, and trim back overgrown vegetation.

Market Rasen Race Course and the school both expressed their gratitude for the paint donation and the hard work of all involved. The new and improved playground has already become a popular spot for students to enjoy outdoor activities and fresh air.

ENTHUSIASTS FLOCK TO BOSTON CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Our team had another fantastic day at the Boston Classic Car Club's annual show. The event was bustling with enthusiasts, and our trade stand was a hive of activity. We enjoyed chatting about classic cars and their restoration with visitors from all walks of life.

Our products were once again in high demand, with our Classic 20W50 motor oil proving to be the star of the show.

To complement our offerings, we displayed a stunning 1999 Mini Balmoral and a classic Ford F150 pickup truck, courtesy of Witham’s Simon Ranshaw and Tom Reader.

The day was capped off with an unforgettable flypast by the BBMF Lancaster, a true highlight for car and aviation enthusiasts alike.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND FUNDRAISING

LIVES RECEIVES PAINT SUPPORT FOR NEW SLUICE ROOM

We were proud to support LIVES, a charity dedicated to providing emergency care in critical medical situations, with an upgrade to their sluice room recently. A sluice room is a closed area that allows for the safe and efficient disposal of human waste. Sluice rooms are essential for infection control, particularly in environments dealing with medical emergencies.

We supplied our Woco floor paint, which was used to enhance the sanitation and waste management processes crucial to LIVES emergency medical services. This project was a vital upgrade to their infrastructure and with its improved capabilities, the new facility will allow the Lives teams to operate more efficiently and safely.

The LIVES team expressed their thanks for our support: “Thank you to The Witham Group for your generous discount on medical-grade paints, which has been instrumental in helping us upgrade and refurbish our sluice room. Your support has made a significant impact on our ability to provide a cleaner, safer environment for our medical emergency teams and ultimately for those we serve."

We were delighted to attend a launch event for the opening of new sluice room. The event featured an indepth medical simulation, showcasing the incredible work responders carry out daily. Attendees witnessed a realistic demonstration of how LIVES medical teams respond to emergencies, using cutting-edge techniques and technology to save lives across Lincolnshire.

WE ROARED INTO ACTION AT THE VETERAN CAR CLUB’S DAMBUSTERS RALLY

In the summer we supported the Veteran Car Club’s Dambusters Rally. It was an honour to support this iconic event. We kept those classic engines purring with discounted litres of Qualube Classic engine oil and bottles of Qualkeen hand cleaner for every participant. What a fantastic day of nostalgia and automotive excellence.

CLASSIC MINIS UNDER THE SUN

In June we attended National Mini Day, under glorious sunshine at Beaulieu Motor Museum. Hundreds of classic Mini and modern Mini enthusiasts were treated to a fantastic display of cars from throughout the Mini Marque’s rich history, including the famous Monte Carlo Winning EJB 33, driven by Paddy Hopkirk, on loan for the day from the British Motor Museum.

On the Witham Stand we had our tribute to Paddy, in the form of a 2018 R58 JCW Mini Coupe, with a graphical tribute sign.

We were proudly supporting the Mini Cooper Register with our Trade stand being busy all day, with customers purchasing our MCR special edition 20w50 Classic Mini Oil.

SUPPORTING THE BARGE PRESERVATION TRUST

We are proud to have contributed to the restoration of BARGE 9, a 1928 Humber Keel located in Oulton Broad, Lowestoft. This historic vessel has been given a new lease of life and transformed into a charming tearoom, bar, and restaurant.

The conversion project has been carried out by skilled local tradespeople and dedicated volunteers. Once completed, the profits from the business will be used to support community outreach projects in the local area.

Witham Group has played a vital role in this restoration project by providing:

» Woco Black Bitumen: Used for the hull of the barge.

» Woco 370 Supercote: Applied to the above-water steelwork. Our products have helped to protect and preserve the barge's structure, ensuring its longevity for generations to come.

REMINDER! CALLING ALL MASSEY FERGUSON 135 ENTHUSIASTS!

FERGUSON 135 WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT!

You may recall the story in the Spring issue of the Oily Rag about the Guinness World Record for the largest number of Massey Ferguson 135s ever assembled?

This event is happening on the 9th & 10th November at Newark Showground, and organisers, the ‘Friends of Ferguson Heritage’ (FoFH) are looking for participants!

This Autumn, the FoFH will be marking their Diamond Jubilee Anniversary – 60 years since the launch of the Massey Ferguson 135. This classic tractor, known as the ‘Red Giant’ is one of the biggest selling tractors of all time, with over 300,000 sold worldwide.

To celebrate this anniversary, FoFH are attempting to gather a World Record number of Massey Ferguson 135s at the Newark Vintage Tractor Show in Nottinghamshire. They are appealing to all MF135 owners to join them at Newark Showground for the event – which is not just limited to FoFH members.

To raise enough to fund the Guinness World Record recognition, they are also asking for support from businesses to cover the costs of the MF135 spectacle, by way of sponsorship opportunities.

If you know of any businesses or individuals that would be interested in supporting this event, or any MF135 owners that would like to join in the event, please contact Peter Lawrence, FoFH Club Chairman at pete.lawrence1@btinternet.com or 07952 311 993. Thank you.

SUDBROOKE PARK CATTLE COMPANY RANCH HORSE CHALLENGE

We were thrilled to support one of our valued customers, The Sudbrooke Park Cattle Company, at their recent "Ranch Horse Challenge" cowboy event in Lincolnshire.

The event featured a variety of challenging competitions, including Ranch Sorting, Team Penning, Ranch Cutting, Dummy Roping, and a Ranch Trail Course. The event attracted over 100 people and as a sponsor of the

"Green as Grass" Competition for novice riders, we had the opportunity to witness the incredible talent of these young cowboys and cowgirls.

Sudbrooke Park Cattle Company is a working cattle farm that relies on horses for the management of their wonderful herd of over 1000 cattle.

THE SUPPLY, PURCHASE AND USE OF LUBRICANTS AND COOLING FLUIDS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

UKLA PROVIDES NEW CLARIFICATION ON PROTECTING FREE AND FAIR COMPETITION THROUGH THE UK

The United Kingdom Lubricants Association (UKLA) has produced a helpful leaflet which clarifies and outlines of some of the principles of the UK legal framework relating to the supply, purchase and use of lubricants and other functional fluids. Vehicle Manufacturers, importers or dealers can be fined heavily if these rules are not complied with. This may be particularly helpful to all our customers who may have heard different rumours about buying oil from suppliers that may jeopardise a warranty. We hope this goes some way to clarifying this issue for you.

The rights of third-party actors to provide OEM quality parts to the automotive aftermarket is protected in UK law within the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO). This Order replaced the EU Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation which was ported over into UK law when the UK left the European Union and is based on safeguards contained in the Treaty of Rome which regulates competition in the European Union.

The MVBEO provides safeguards against anti-competitive practice amongst suppliers, manufacturers and distributors in the automotive sector in return for limiting those rights amongst automotive manufacturers and distributors that would curtail free and fair competition.

Amongst the rights contained in the Order are the right of third-party actors to supply OEM matching quality parts to the automotive aftermarket including lubricants and cooling fluids, the right to access relevant OEM technical information with which to develop, produce and supply OEM matching quality parts based on market standards and OEM specifications, and the right to have unfettered access to be able to supply these OEM matching quality parts without encumbrance to the automotive aftermarket.

In the UK, responsibility for the enforcement and monitoring of these rights comes under the Competition and Markets Authority, CMA, a non-ministerial government department of the Department for Business & Trade.

ABOUT THE UKLA

The UKLA, the United Kingdom Lubricants Association, represents the interests of the lubricants industry in the United Kingdom, with a focus on supporting SMEs

1. Can the Vehicle Manufacturer impose, for its vehicles, the use of its own lubricants and other fluids or those of a named lubricant manufacturer?

No, except when the Vehicle Manufacturer is paying for the products (e.g. free servicing, warranty repairs, and recall work).

2. Can the Vehicle Manufacturer recommend, for its vehicles, the use of its own lubricants and other fluids or those of a named lubricant manufacturer?

Yes, simple recommendations are allowed, but they cann ot be mad e mandatory. OEM recommendations should always be accompanied by a relevant specification or market standard that allows the vehicle owner to correctly identify and have the choice of which lubricants and cooling fluids they wish to use in their vehicle at the same time as providing the recommendation.

The Vehicle Manufacturer can only impose minimum quality and performance levels linked to a market standard or technical specification such as those of API, ACEA or the Manufacturer standard. All OEM’s have their own branded oils which use ACEA/API as a base line only and have extra performance tests, or more severe tests.

3. Is it true that the warranty would be inapplicable if the Vehicle Manufacturer recommendation is not followed?

No, the Vehicle Manufacturer cannot withdraw its warranty if match ing quality lubricants and other functional fluids meet the Vehicle Manufacturer requirements regarding quality and technical performance. The Competition & Markets Authority will not hesitate to initiate proceedings if a vehicle manufacturer would threaten not to honour its warranty because of the use of a product of matching quality.

4. How can I obtain technical requirements about lubricants and other functional fluids?

Vehicle Manufacturers have to provide all technical information, so called Repair and Maintenance Information or RMI, including technical specifications on lubricants and other functional fluids, to whoever services or uses, maintains or repairs these products to enable their correct application.

and independent companies that produce lubricants, cooling fluids and metal processing fluids essential for the automotive and industrial sectors.

www.ukla.org.uk

5. Can I, as a customer, choose the lubricant of my choice as long as it meets the Vehicle Manufacturer specifications? Yes, you are free to choose the brand of your choice as long as it meets the technical requirements of the Vehicle Manufacturer and is of matching quality.

6. I have a contract with a Vehicle Manufacturer. What about a non-compete obligation in the contract regarding lubricants or other functional fluids?

You must be aware that a non-compete obligation agreed between you and a Vehicle Manufacturer (VM) regarding lubricants or other functional fluids could fall inside the scope of the UK MVBEO provisions on vertical restraints because of the important market share of the VM in the aftermarket sector, (more than 30%). These agreements take place between firms operating at different levels of the production or distribution chain. In some circumstances, minimum purchasing obligations calculated based on your total annual requirements may also fall inside the scope of this Order.

7. What about fixed price maintenance package offers, including lubricants, which I may be asked to handle? Firstly, the Vehicle Manufacturer and reseller cannot dictate a selling price to a consumer. It would be severely punished under Resale Price Maintenance Law. Secondly, if maintenance package offers include specified lubricants and prevent a vehicle reseller from buying competitive products, they would be interpreted as a non-compete obligation. (See question N°6).

8. Are lubricants within the Order classified as spare parts? Yes, lubricants and cooling fluids are considered as spare parts with in the UK MVBEO. Thus, all technical information must be readily available to motor vehicle operators, owners and those who service and maintain vehicles.

9. What about bonuses and discount systems including lubricants or other functional fluids put in place by Vehicle Manufacturers?

These systems may be considered as indirect noncompete obligations (see question N°6). In some circumstances, they could also be analysed as an abuse of a dominant position in the aftermarket sector.

10.What can I do if a Vehicle Manufacturer contests the use of a specific lubricant which is, from my point of view, of matching quality?

If a Vehicle Manufacturer wants to contest the use by you of a specific lubricant, it is their responsibility to prove that this lubricant does not meet the Vehicle Manufacturer’s technical requirements.

CONCLUSION

The leaflet is now available to any customer that would like further information on the principles of the UK legal framework relating to the supply, purchase and use of lubricants and other functional fluids. The advice found within this new leaflet is an overview of the key points and it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of issues. Therefore, please do not hesitate to contact us at Witham Group if you have any questions or need advice on this important issue.

THE EVOLVING WORLD OF LUBRICANTS FOR AGRICULTURE, OFF-HIGHWAY & COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Lubricants play a critical role in the longevity and efficiency of engines, especially for vehicles in the agriculture, off-highway, and commercial sectors. As the technology behind vehicles in these industries evolves, so too do the lubricants designed to keep them running smoothly. Recent innovations in lubricant formulations

1. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS & EMISSION STANDARDS

Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter emissions regulations for off-highway and commercial vehicles, which include farm machinery, trucks, and construction equipment. In response, vehicle manufacturers are producing engines with advanced emissions control systems. These engines require lubricants that not only provide superior protection but also work seamlessly with emissions reduction technologies like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.

Low-ash and low-sulphur lubricants, which are less likely to clog these emissions systems, are becoming more common. Lubricants like low SAPS oils (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulphur) are now essential, especially for vehicles that must comply with Tier 4 or Euro VI emission standards. These lubricants not only help reduce emissions but also enhance fuel efficiency, which is critical for lowering the overall operating costs of heavyduty vehicles.

2. EXTENDED DRAIN INTERVALS & DURABILITY

Farmers and fleet managers are demanding more from their machinery in terms of operational hours and reliability. Extended drain intervals, which reduce the frequency of oil changes, have become a key selling point for modern lubricants. In high-pressure environments like agriculture, downtime for maintenance can significantly

are addressing new challenges posed by stricter emissions regulations, more demanding workloads, and increasingly sophisticated machinery. Thanks to our lubricant know how and commitment to innovation, Witham Group are well placed to keep ahead of these developments. Here we explain more…..

impact productivity, so lubricants designed to last longer between changes provide valuable time savings. Manufacturers are developing synthetic lubricants that not only withstand higher temperatures but also resist oxidation and degradation over longer periods. These lubricants retain their viscosity and protective properties for extended intervals, reducing the number of oil changes required, which in turn lowers maintenance costs and increases vehicle uptime.

3. ADVANCED PROTECTION FOR HEAVY LOADS

Off-highway vehicles and farm machinery often operate under extreme conditions-heavy loads, variable weather, and dusty or muddy environments. The lubricants for these vehicles must provide superior protection against wear, corrosion, and contamination. Modern lubricants are designed to create stronger protective films and are enhanced with anti-wear additives like zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP), which helps protect engine components from the high-pressure stress caused by heavy loads.

Additionally, lubricants are increasingly resistant to the challenges posed by contaminants like dirt and water, which are common in agricultural and off-highway environments. New formulations include advanced detergents and dispersants that help keep engines cleaner by preventing sludge formation and removing harmful deposits.

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL LUBRICANTS

Agricultural vehicles like tractors often have combined hydraulic and transmission systems. In these cases, using a single lubricant that can protect both the engine and the transmission is highly advantageous. Multi-functional lubricants are now being developed to perform multiple roles in vehicles, reducing the need for separate fluids for engines, hydraulics, and gearboxes. These multi-functional lubricants simplify maintenance procedures, reduce inventory costs for farmers, and ensure that all vehicle systems operate smoothly, even under the challenging conditions of farm work.

5. BIO-BASED AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LUBRICANTS

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority across industries, including agriculture and construction. Biobased lubricants, derived from renewable resources like vegetable oils, are emerging as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based products. These lubricants are biodegradable and non-toxic, making them less harmful

to the environment in case of leaks or spills, which is particularly important in agricultural operations where soil and water contamination can be detrimental. While bio-based lubricants still face challenges in terms of performance and cost compared to synthetic and mineral oils, advancements are continually being made to improve their temperature stability and oxidation resistance, making them more viable for heavy-duty applications.

6. HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN AGRICULTURE

Though still in the early stages, the shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) in the agriculture and commercial sectors is driving the need for new types of lubricants. Electric engines require specialized lubricants for cooling and electrical insulation. As more manufacturers introduce hybrid systems for agricultural vehicles, lubricants will need to adapt to these new types of powertrains, providing both conventional lubrication and cooling capabilities for electric motors and batteries.

7. WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD?

The future of lubricants in agriculture, off-highway, and commercial vehicles is increasingly shaped by the dual forces of sustainability and technology. As emissions standards tighten and machinery becomes more complex, lubricants are evolving to meet these demands with advanced formulations that enhance durability, protect against extreme conditions, and reduce environmental impact. The continued development of bio-based alternatives and synthetic options will ensure that these industries remain both efficient and environmentally responsible. These innovations are not only keeping pace with the changing nature of vehicle technology but also setting the standard for improved performance and sustainability in the years ahead.

8. HOW WELL IS WITHAM GROUP PLACED TO KEEP PACE WITH THIS CHANGE?

The Witham Group is well-positioned for the next chapter in lubricant technology due to several key factors:

� HERITAGE AND EXPERTISE

With over 100 years of experience, the Witham Group has a deep understanding of the lubricant industry. Established in 1921, the company has grown into a respected manufacturer of lubricants and paints, with a focus on quality and innovation. This strong foundation allows Witham to adapt to new technological advancements while maintaining its reputation for reliability and performance.

The future of lubricants in agriculture, off-highway, and commercial vehicles is increasingly shaped by the dual forces of sustainability and technology.

� SUSTAINABILITY & REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

The company is well-prepared to meet increasing regulatory demands for more sustainable and ecofriendly products. As environmental regulations around emissions and chemical safety continue to tighten, Witham's focus on creating low-sulphur, low-ash lubricants positions it favourably. Additionally, the company adheres to important standards like REACH, ensuring their products comply with European safety and environmental regulations.

� COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION

Witham Group has consistently invested in research and development to stay ahead of technological advancements. For example, the company has developed a growing range of environmentally friendly products, such as its Prolan range, along with a unique blending process using solar and ultrasound. This innovative approach extends to other lubricants, where focus is on creating solutions that meet the latest engine requirements, such as low-emission standards and extended oil and coolant life.

� OEM AND INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS

Witham works closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) lubricant additive companies and key industry bodies such as the UEIL, UKLA and VLS to ensure its products meet evolving technical standards. By obtaining necessary certifications and approvals from OEMs, Witham ensures that its lubricants are suitable for modern machinery and vehicles, including those used in agriculture, off-highway, and commercial sectors.

� TECHNOLOGICAL ADAPTABILITY

As hybrid and electric vehicle technologies become more prevalent, particularly in agriculture and commercial sectors, lubricant manufacturers must evolve. The Witham Group has demonstrated an ability to adapt to new vehicle technologies and the changing landscape of powertrains by producing advanced synthetic lubricants that support both traditional and emerging engine types. Witham is also working with some OEMs on lubricants for their hydrogen innovations.

With our century-long experience, commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and adherence to regulatory and environmental standards, the Witham Group is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving lubricant industry. Their readiness to embrace the next phase of lubricant technology ensures that they will continue to be a key player in providing high-performance solutions for agricultural, off-highway, and commercial vehicles.

Chain oils play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of chains used in industrial machinery, agricultural and horticultural equipment, and vehicles. These oils reduce friction, prevent wear and tear, and protect chains from rust and corrosion, ensuring smoother, safer operations and also minimising downtime.

Witham Group's Qualube chain oils are specially formulated to provide excellent lubrication and protection even in harsh conditions. Our products are designed to handle high loads, ensuring that chains remain welllubricated and free from rust or dirt build-up. These oils also reduce the risk of chain failure by minimising friction, which is critical for industries like agriculture, forestry, and construction, where heavy-duty equipment is constantly in use.

COMMON APPLICATIONS OF CHAIN OILS

� Industrial Chains: Conveyor belts, manufacturing machinery and automated systems use chains that must be consistently lubricated to prevent downtime and breakdowns.

� Agricultural Machinery: Farm equipment, including harvesters, combines and tractors, rely heavily on chains that are exposed to dirt, moisture, and various agricultural elements.

� Motorcycles and Bicycles: Chains in motorcycles and bicycles require regular lubrication to maintain smooth operation and prevent premature wear.

� Forestry & Horticultural Equipment: Chainsaws and other forestry equipment require chain oils for proper operation, especially in high-speed and high-temperature conditions.

� Marine and Offshore: Chains in these industries are exposed to salty and corrosive environments, making high-quality chain oils essential for preventing rust and maintaining performance.

QUALUBE CHAIN OILS A CUT ABOVE THE REST?

Witham Group’s Qualube chain oil range includes a popular Tacky Chain ISO 100 viscosity oil, a Clear Chain Oil aerosol spray and a Biodegradable Chain Oil, which is specifically formulated for reducing the ecological impact in sensitive environments. The company is also focused on producing eco-conscious lubricants which are a significant advantage for industries looking to minimise their environmental footprint, while maintaining high performance.

So, if you require to lubricate your chains, whatever the application, we have the safe and trusted solution to help reduce maintenance costs and offering long lasting protection under demanding conditions.

Our commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that users not only benefit from superior lubrication but also contribute to environmental preservation wherever possible. Contact us today to find out more.

WHY WOCO SUPERCOTE PAINT IS A TOP CHOICE FOR INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

When it comes to selecting industrial paint, businesses prioritise durability, protective qualities, and long-lasting performance. Witham’s Supercote, a premium range of industrial paints, stands out in the market due to its

1. EXCEPTIONAL DURABILITY

Industrial paints are exposed to harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, chemicals, and physical abrasion. WOCO Supercote excels in such environments by offering exceptional durability, protecting surfaces from wear and tear over time. Its advanced formula is designed to resist corrosion, making it ideal for use on metal structures, machinery, and surfaces prone to rusting.

2. ADVANCED PROTECTIVE QUALITIES

The primary function of industrial paint is to act as a shield against environmental factors that could damage equipment or infrastructure. WOCO Supercote is specially engineered to provide strong protection against:

� CORROSION: Its anti-corrosive properties extend the life of metal surfaces by preventing rust formation.

� CHEMICALS: In industries that deal with harsh chemicals, such as manufacturing and processing plants, WOCO Supercote’s chemical-resistant properties prevent degradation from spills or exposure.

� WEATHER RESIS TANCE: Outdoor industrial structures often face extreme weather conditions, and WOCO Supercote is known for its resistance to UV rays, rain, and high humidity, ensuring that painted surfaces remain intact for longer.

superior formulation, extensive benefits, and proven results in a variety of demanding environments. Here are several reasons why WOCO Supercote Industrial Paint is a leading choice for industrial applications.

3. HIGH COVERAGE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

One of the reasons WOCO Supercote is highly regarded by professionals is its excellent coverage. Fewer coats are required to achieve optimal results, reducing labour costs and application time. Its consistency allows for smooth application whether applied by brush, roller, or spray, ensuring an even and durable finish.

4. VERSATILITY ACROSS MULTIPLE INDUSTRIES

WOCO Supercote is suitable for a wide range of industrial sectors, from manufacturing and construction to marine and automotive industries. This versatility stems from its ability to bond well with various surfaces, including metal, wood, and concrete. The paint performs equally well in both indoor and outdoor environments, adding to its appeal across diverse sectors.

5. COMPLIANCE WITH INDUSTRY STANDARDS

In industrial environments, safety and regulatory compliance are of paramount importance. WOCO Supercote complies with all necessary industry standards, including environmental regulations regarding VOC (volatile organic compounds) levels. Its low-VOC formula makes it a safer option for the environment and reduces the health risks associated with inhalation during application.

6. COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION

While industrial paints can sometimes represent a significant upfront investment, WOCO Supercote provides excellent value for money due to its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. Its durability ensures that businesses do not need to repaint surfaces frequently, thereby lowering the total cost of ownership over time. Additionally, its anti-corrosive and weather-resistant properties prevent costly repairs or replacements of painted surfaces.

7. EXCELLENT COLOUR RETENTION AND A RANGE OF HIGH QUALITY FINISHES

Beyond its protective qualities, Witham Supercote offers excellent colour retention. It is designed to resist fading, even when exposed to prolonged UV radiation or harsh environmental conditions. With a choice of matt, eggshell, satin and gloss finishes, this paint is an ideal choice for businesses looking to maintain the aesthetic appeal of their industrial spaces and machinery, while ensuring long-term functionality.

8. BESPOKE SOLUTIONS

Witham Paint, the formulator and manufacturer behind WOCO Supercote, offers a wide variety of colour options to match the branding or functional needs of different industries. Additionally, we provide customised solutions

tailored to specific industrial challenges, ensuring businesses get a paint solution that meets their exact requirements.

Witham Group’s WOCO Supercote Industrial Paint is a top-tier solution for businesses looking for long-lasting, durable, and protective coatings for their industrial applications. Its high-performance formulation, ease of application, and extensive protective qualities make it a stand-out choice in the world of industrial paints. Whether protecting metal from corrosion, withstanding harsh weather conditions, or maintaining aesthetic appeal, WOCO Supercote provides unmatched reliability in demanding environments, and its durability, costeffectiveness, and compliance with safety standards, make it a go-to option for professionals across various industries.

Contact us today to find out how we can help transform your machinery, buildings, floors or outdoor spaces with our trusted paints and coatings.

SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE, AN IDEAL HUNTING GROUND FOR JAGUARS!

South Lincolnshire Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club is the only Jaguar club in the south of the county, and is well placed to provide the best club and social experience for enthusiasts and owners of modern and historic Jaguars, attracted by the brand and its history. Following factory tours, visits and close links with Witham Group, the club tells us more in their own words about our relationship and all that the club has to offer…

The Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club (JEC) is the largest Jaguar club in the world and comprises 90 national and International ‘Regions’. The South Lincolnshire Region covers a sizable area, extending from Louth to Cambridge and from Lincoln across to the North Sea. The association between S. Lincs Region of the JEC and The Witham Group started completely by chance, when our Chairman, Neil Jervis, happened to notice a photograph of his replica SS100 Jaguar on The Witham Group’s website. Neil’s discovery led him to have a conversation with Nigel Bottom, who kindly invited Neil to bring some of the Region’s members to visit Witham Oils HQ, where we had a tour of the factory and listened to a fascinating presentation by Nigel about The Witham Group’s history and remarkable achievements.

S. Lincs JEC members during their mini break to Wales, where they enjoyed a steam train

Mugglestone's

discount on Witham Oils’ products and the rest, as they say, is history. Owners of older cars are often faced with a limited choice of vehicle lubrication products on the High Street. Fortunately, because The Witham Group has such an extensive data base, it can help our members to identify and purchase the ideal products to use in their model of Jaguar. As Neil found, to his delight, switching to the correct grade of Qualube immediately improved the fuel consumption of his Suffolk SS100 and reduced its propensity to leak!

We are fortunate, in S. Lincs Region, to have as our ViceChairman, Neal Mugglestone, an independent Jaguar Specialist based at Anton’s Gowt, near Boston. Neal and his team provide an extremely professional maintenance service that helps to keep the memberships’ rich variety of Jaguars on the road. Our members’ cars include classics such as Mk2’s, XK’s, and E-Types, through to the large

Neal

XK180 among friends at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

saloons to modern SUV’s and F-Types. Neal now stocks a full range of Witham oils to suit all JLR vehicles, including traditional models. Mugglestone and Co. are very impressed with the quality of product and service they receive from Witham Oils. On a more personal note, when Neal finds time to relax and mess about on the river, he uses Witham Oil's commercial 15w/40 engine oil in his Volvo Penta boat

Neil & Sue Jervis in their Suffolk SS100 at the JEC Harewood Hillclimb

Our Region runs a busy programme of events in addition to our monthly meetings, which are usually held on the second Tuesday of the month at The Wishing Well Inn, at Dyke, near Bourne. Each year our calendar includes several regular ‘fixtures’, which tend to include a certain amount of eating. As will soon become apparent, food seems to feature quite heavily in our activities! Starting as we mean to go on, the beginning of the driving season is marked with a ‘breakfast meet’, which, in both 2023 and 2024, was held at Doddington Hall, near Lincoln.

Later in April, we participate in the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs’ National ‘Drive it Day’; an event that is not only great fun but also raises money for the NSPCC. This tour is always followed by a hearty lunch when we reach our destination. Our annual summer barbecue is held at Anton’s Gowt in July, hosted by the Mugglestone family, who also kindly invite members to attend their bonfire party in November. And in December, we enjoy a festive evening meal together at a pub/restaurant.

The 2024 calendar also included visits to: the Shuttleworth Warbirds Air Show, Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, Nene Valley Railway (for a fish and chip supper), Baumber Walled Gardens at Horncastle (for afternoon tea), and the Ops room at RAF Digby. Members attended car shows at Grimsthorpe Castle, Greetham, and Revesby; participated in the JEC’s Harewood Hillclimb, met for several informal pub lunches, enjoyed cruising along the River Trent, completed a walking treasure hunt around Newark and had a mini break in scenic Snowdonia. Last, but by no means least, we visited Witham Group HQ for another interesting presentation by Nigel, where members were again impressed by the company’s cutting-edge technology and on-going commitment to environmental protection.

In 2025, we plan to continue our tradition of eating out whenever the opportunity presents itself! Arrangements are in place for visits to: the International Bomber Command Centre, a privately-owned light-railway collection, and a return trip to Shuttleworth, this time to the ‘Festival of Flight’. Other outings still at the planning stage at the time of writing include visits to Brooklands, Bletchley Park and, more locally, the ‘We’ll Meet Again’ World War 2 Museum. There will be a mini break in Norfolk and some members have also signed up to go to the Isle of Man Festival of Motoring.

Our friendly Region considers itself to be as much, if not more, a social club for folks with an interest in Jaguars, rather than one of those car clubs for people who focus exclusively on the more technical aspects of the hobby. Further information about the South Lincolnshire JEC’s activities can be found in the ‘Regions’ section of the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club web pages at www.jec.org.uk/regions or by searching on Facebook for South Lincolnshire Region Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club. New members are most welcome, and we hope to see you soon.

SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE REGION

Mr N. Bottom (Managing Director) WITHAM OIL & PAINT LTD

Head Office

Outer Circle Road

Lincoln LN2 4HL

Dear Nigel,

12th September 2024

As you know, when Neil told me that he had arranged South Lincolnshire Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club’s initial visit to Witham Oils, two years ago, I groaned inwardly, thinking ‘there’s three hours of my life that I’ll never get back’! And, as you also know, I subsequently, quite happily, ate a large portion of humble pie, because your fascinating talk was totally captivating, inspiring me, and other club members, to ponder various oil-related conundrums for the first time. Wearing your considerable expertise lightly, you pre-empted all our questions with straightforward explanations delivered with good humour. It proved to be such an interesting and enjoyable evening that I had no hesitation in encouraging another group of members to join Neil and me for our second visit last night.

And guess what? You didn’t disappoint. Thank you so much for providing an equally informative and amusing presentation to our group yesterday evening. It was clear to Neil and me, having visited your offices and factory in 2022, that the Witham Group does not rest on its well-deserved laurels. Throughout our tour, we noticed changes that evidenced your continuing investment in highly advanced technology and your on-going commitment to environmental protection. Your company’s green credentials are enhanced by your on-site use of energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, water-recycling and recycled-plastics, etc. However, the incredible energy savings produced by your revolutionary Blentek system, ought to give even the most ardent ‘Just Stop Oil’ campaigners pause for thought.

Once again, Neil and I were impressed by the ethics and professionalism enshrined in the ‘Witham Way’ and we know, from the appreciative comments made as we left your premises, that our fellow club members share that view. We are particularly grateful to you for your generous hospitality and for kindly giving up your evening to tell us about the Witham Group’s history and remarkable achievements. Please could you pass on our warm thanks to Darren, too.

Your sincerely,

Sue Jervis (Secretary, South Lincolnshire Region Jaguar Enthusiasts Club).

Recently, the south Lincs JEC club visited our Witham Group factory in Lincoln and sent a warm letter of thanks (see p16) for more details of their visit.

Antifreeze and coolants are essential fluids that play a critical role in regulating an engine’s temperature, protecting it from overheating, freezing, and corrosion. Technology innovations are on the rise to keep pace with the evolving types of engines and as the weather changes and winter approaches, it's time to ensure your vehicle is ready to face the elements.

Ready for winter, we have launched a new, comprehensive range of antifreeze and coolant products designed to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently throughout

WHAT DO ANTIFREEZE & COOLANTS ACTUALLY DO?

1. TEMPERATURE REGULATION: Coolants maintain the engine’s optimal operating temperature by absorbing excess heat generated during combustion. Without coolant, the engine would overheat, potentially leading to severe damage like cracked engine blocks, warped cylinder heads, and blown gaskets.

2. FREEZE PROTECTION: In cold conditions, antifreeze lowers the freezing point of the coolant mixture, preventing the engine’s coolant from freezing. Frozen coolant can cause pipes to crack and damage internal engine components.

3. CORROSION AND RUST PREVENTION: Coolants contain additives that protect metal surfaces inside the engine, radiator, and cooling system from corrosion, rust, and scale build-up, which can clog passages and reduce the efficiency of heat transfer.

4. LUBRICATION: The coolant also lubricates water pumps and other components in the cooling system, ensuring smooth operation and preventing wear over time.

EXTENDED LIFE COOLANTS (ELC)

Traditional coolants required frequent replacement, but Extended Life Coolants (ELC), based on OAT or Si-OAT technology, are formulated to last longer, sometimes up to 10 years or 300,000 miles. These coolants minimise the need for regular flushing and refilling, reducing maintenance costs.

Additives in ELCs are engineered to break down more slowly, providing long-term protection against corrosion and scale formation, especially in high-performance engines.

the winter months and beyond. With technology evolving significantly in recent years, our latest products are formulated with the most up to date, advanced formulas to provide much longer term protection, enhanced performance and reliability. Here we explain what type of anti-freeze you might consider and why they are so important…

WHAT IS CHANGING IN THE MARKET PLACE?

Antifreeze technology has evolved significantly in recent years, especially with advancements like Si-OAT, which balances long-term corrosion protection and compatibility with modern engines. Innovations driven by the need for more efficient thermal management in electric vehicles, eco-friendly options, and nanotechnology point toward a future where coolants will continue to play a crucial role in engine performance, while also meeting environmental and regulatory demands.

Staying updated on these advancements ensures that manufacturers and consumers choose the best antifreeze for their specific application, ensuring better engine protection, improved efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

With the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles, coolant technology is also evolving to meet the specific cooling needs of battery packs, electric motors, and inverters. Dielectric coolants are being developed, which are nonconductive fluids, ensuring that electric components are protected from short circuits while maintaining thermal regulation.

There is increasing demand for eco-friendly coolants due to environmental regulations and concerns over the toxicity of traditional antifreeze (ethylene glycol). New formulations based on propylene glycol, which is less toxic and more biodegradable than traditional formulas, are being adopted. These coolants offer safer disposal options without compromising performance. Low-toxicity coolants are also being developed for industries like agriculture and forestry, where environmental exposure risks are high.

WHY DIFFERENT TYPES OF COOLANT MATTER

Engines are made from a variety of metals and operate in diverse environments, so selecting the right type of coolant for a particular application is crucial. The differences in coolant types are based on their formulation and the type of additives used for specific engine needs:

1. INORGANIC ACID TECHNOLOGY (IAT) COOLANT

� COMMON USE: Older vehicles, especially those with cast iron or copper components.

� FEATURES: IAT coolants, typically green in colour, use phosphates and silicates as corrosion inhibitors. They provide strong, short-term protection but need to be replaced every two to three years due to their relatively short lifespan.

� WHY IT'S IMPORTANT: Using IAT in modern engines can cause compatibility issues with newer materials and lead to premature wear.

2. ORGANIC ACID TECHNOLOGY (OAT) COOLANT

� COMMON USE: Modern vehicles, especially those with aluminium engines.

� FEATURES: OAT coolants, often orange or red, rely on organic acids for long-term corrosion protection. These coolants typically last longer (up to 5 years or 150,000 miles) but are not compatible with engines designed for IAT coolants.

� WHY IT'S IMPORTANT: OAT coolants provide excellent long-term protection but should not be mixed with IAT coolants, as the chemical reactions between them can diminish corrosion protection and cause deposits.

3. SI-OAT TECHNOLOGY

This refers to a specialised type of coolant/antifreeze that blends Silicate Organic Acid Technology (Si-OAT), combining the benefits of both traditional organic acid

technology (OAT) and the added protection of silicates. This hybrid formulation is designed to offer enhanced corrosion protection for modern engines, particularly those with aluminium components, while also providing long service life.

KEY FEATURES OF SI-OAT ANTIFREEZE:

1. Corrosion Protection: Si-OAT coolant includes silicates that offer superior protection for aluminium surfaces, which are commonly found in modern engines. The silicates form a thin, protective layer on metal surfaces, guarding against corrosion and wear, especially in hightemperature environments.

2. Extended Lifespan: Like traditional OAT coolants, Si-OAT offers long-lasting protection, with replacement intervals often extending up to 5 years or 150,000 miles. This reduces the need for frequent coolant changes.

3. Heat Transfer Efficiency: Si-OAT coolants maintain excellent thermal stability, helping engines stay cool in extreme operating conditions, whether hot or cold.

4. Compatibility with Modern Engines: Si-OAT is particularly suitable for modern, high-performance engines that feature lightweight materials like aluminium and magnesium. These coolants help prevent cavitation and erosion in these sensitive materials, prolonging engine life.

� WHY IT'S IMPORTANT:

OEM Recommendations: Many European car manufacturers, such as Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche, recommend Si-OAT coolants because they align with the specific needs of their engines, which often incorporate high aluminium content.

Reduced Maintenance Costs: With longer service intervals and enhanced protection, Si-OAT coolants can reduce the need for regular maintenance and protect key engine components from premature wear and corrosion.

GETTING THE RIGHT PRODUCT FOR THE RIGHT APPLICATION

Choosing the right coolant for a specific engine type is essential for the following reasons:

� MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY: Modern engines use materials like aluminium and magnesium alloys that may react poorly with older coolant formulations. Using the wrong coolant can lead to corrosion, wear, or even engine failure.

� EXTENDED LIFESPAN: Newer coolants, such as OAT and Si OAT provide longer service intervals, but they must be compatible with the engine's materials and cooling system. Using the wrong type can shorten the coolant’s effective lifespan and require more frequent changes.

� HEAT TRANSFER EFFICIENCY: Different coolants have varying abilities to transfer heat. Using the wrong coolant can reduce the cooling system's efficiency, leading to overheating or inconsistent engine performance.

� WARRANTY AND MANUFACTURER

RECOMMENDATIONS: Vehicle manufacturers often specify the type of coolant to be used based on engine design and material compatibility. Using a coolant not recommended by the manufacturer can void warranties or lead to engine damage.

WITHAM GROUP ARE HERE TO HELP

Here at Witham Group, our new QUALGUARD range boasts 8 antifreeze and coolants which are ideal for the newest or oldest engines in all types of automotive, commercial or off-road vehicles. For Heavy Duty Vehicles we are now using Si-OAT Technology in our new range, which offers superior protection for more modern engines and reducing the need for frequent coolant changes. We have also recently launched a new biodegradable antifreeze for the safe, non-toxic winterisation of caravans and holiday lodges, boats and statics.

We have also recently launched a new biodegradable antifreeze for the safe, non-toxic winterisation of caravans and holiday lodges, boats and statics.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE SHOOTING SEASON

The game shooting season is in full swing, and it's essential to ensure your firearms are in top condition for a successful and enjoyable experience. Our range of gun care products has been gaining popularity among shooting enthusiasts, thanks to their effectiveness and positive reviews.

WHY GUN CARE MATTERS

Good gun care is more than just routine maintenance. It is vital to keep any shotgun or firearm performing accurately, safely, and with reliable precision. Regular cleaning and lubricating will also offer effective protection from the major issue of rust and impurities. Using the correct and specifically designed products is crucial, as general lubricators and cleaners can be incredibly harmful to the delicate mechanisms of the gun and its wooden or plastic parts.

GLOWING CUSTOMER REVIEWS FOR OUR GUN CARE

Our range of trusted gun care products is designed to meet the specific needs of shooting enthusiasts, whatever type of firearm, ensuring optimal protection and cleaning, along with easy to use applications and great results.

We were delighted to recently get some more great feedback from an experienced customer who had the opportunity to shoot several rifles on the range for lengthy zeroing/practise sessions and used Witham Gun Barrel & Choke Cleaner and Witham Gun Oil to clean and maintain his rifles after each session. He kindly provided us with a report on how he found the products and here is a summary of his reviews:

GUN BARREL & CHOKE CLEANING REVIEW

"I was particularly impressed by the Witham gun cleaner's cleaning abilities on the internal parts of my centrefire moderator (Wildcat Predator 8). The cleaner dissolved and wiped away residue from the baffles with relative ease, far better than other products that I have previously used. Overspray from the aerosol wasn't so much of an issue when cleaning the moderator."

GUN OIL REVIEW

"I really liked this gun oil. It seems to have just the right viscosity for guns, and I liked the way it seemed to leave a slightly blue sheen to the surface of gunmetal."

These recent reviews join many others from happy customers who have switched to our gun cleaning range with great success. We are also thrilled to see the range receiving great coverage in the shooting press – here are just some of the recent examples.

WITHAM GUN CARE RANGE IN

A NUTSHELL…

So, if you haven’t yet used any of our gun care products, here’s why you should perhaps give them a try.

WITHAM GUN BARREL & CHOKE CLEANER

� Designed to give unparalleled cleaning ability

� Highly effective at removing gun powder, lead & other metals and plastic wad from cartridge residues

� Cleans exposed and internal metal surfaces

� Displaces non-visible moisture from metal pores

� Quick, super-efficient and easy to use due to the unique solvent ration & propellant mix

� Specially designed to dry slower to ensure it removes even the most stubborn deposits

WITHAM GUN OIL

� High quality and light viscosity

� Offers sympathetic but powerful protection to all conventional metals, wood stocks, and gold & silver inlays

� Suited to all types of sporting guns, vintage and modern

� Potent water-resistant rust inhibitor

� Specifically developed to protect internal and external metal parts from rust and corrosion

� The product will not harden or go rancid

� Flows freely from a fine mist aerosol

WITHAM PROLAN BIODEGRADABLE GUN OIL

� Made with lanolin oil derived from sheep’s wool

� A powerful natural lubricator, water repellent and corrosion protector

� Has outstanding rust protection and wood preserving qualities

� Caring for all parts of the gun

� Biodegradable and environmentally sensitive

A non-carcinogenic and non-toxic high performing alternative to existing oils in the gun

Don’t forget we also offer a really useful official gun cleaning guide which is a great step by step list of how William Gilbert, one of the GB Clay Shoot Team recommends cleaning his guns. This is available as a download from our website.

AT YOUR SERVICE!

HOW DID YOUR COMPANY START?

Billingborough Cars and Commercials was started by our Grandfather Gordon Reynoldson, over 56 years ago, and started life as Billingborough Tractors and Commercials, a business repairing agricultural and commercial vehicles. As a rural area with plenty of agricultural customers, the business did well, but Gordon soon realised there was a gap in the market not just for farmers and hauliers but also for domestic vehicles and so Billingborough Cars and Commercials was born. From humble beginnings in a small workshop Gordon employed his son in law, Ian Houlden, who married his daughter Bev and together they grew the business from strength to strength. Bev is still involved in the business, but it falls to the third generation Russ and his sister Robyn who now continue to lead the business today.

In 2023, we founded our family-owned garage, Bear and Bee, bringing our service and repairs expertise to Grantham in Lincolnshire. The unique name pays tribute to our owner Bev's late husband, Ian, affectionately known as Teddy Bear, who passed away in 2020. Our company's pride and values are rooted in his memory. This garage will soon be coming up to its first birthday!

WHAT DOES THE BUSINESS DO?

When we started out in 1968 we worked mainly on tractors and commercials so we are fully equipped to deal with all agricultural vehicle diagnostics and machinery repairs including pre-MOT inspections and presenting HGVs for MOTs. We are also able to make up new hydraulic pipes.

On the car and light commercial vehicle side, we offer all the services that you’d expect from a decent independent garage such as MOTs, warranty and post-warranty servicing, and everything from topping up your screen wash to replacing your clutch.

We’ve got an electrical specialist, along with a dedicated commercial vehicle technician. We have 8 employees at Billingborough, and 5 at Bear and Bee in Grantham.

Our customers are mainly from our local area and are basically the You’s and the Me’s of the world. We’re community based garages, so we serve our local clients for all of their car repairs. Our customers know that even if they don’t have an appointment, and just have a small query, they can pop in for some advice at any time. Our mechanics are always happy to give them more details about any issues with their vehicle if they’d like it. We cover from Sleaford down to Spalding areas and all around Grantham area.

HOW HAS THE BUSINESS CHANGED OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS

The business has changed an awful lot over the past 10 years, not only from a management perspective with Russ taking over, but we have more specialist technicians, upgraded equipment, more training for technicians, and importantly, a heavy focus on customer experience, such as the introduction of a CRM system, a monthly e-newsletter and encouraging customer reviews.

Founder Gordon Reynoldson with son in law Ian Houlden

Billingborough Cars and Commercials is a third generation family business and award winning garage, which has been going since 1968. We recently caught up with this entrepreneurial enterprise to find out more about their expanding community business and how it's adapting for a buoyant future ahead.

Our ethos is built on delivering reliable, high quality service with integrity. We prioritise vehicle safety and compliance. Our goal is to build long term relationships with customers through trustworthy, transparent service. We’re community garages, and we want the local community to know that they can come to us for advice and decent service no matter how big or small the issue is. This philosophy had a fantastic endorsement when, in 2022, we were delighted to win Top Garage Award in the National Aftermarket Awards and later in 2023 we won the Automechanika Best Single Site Garage, before we opened up in Grantham. This year, in our first year at Grantham were so excited to win the IGA Independent Garage of the Year award 2024. These awards hopefully show our ethos and community focus is working.

HOW HAS THE LAST YEAR OR SO IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS?

Throughout the pandemic, we were of course classed as key workers so we stayed open to service our customers, but we were quieter than usual. With the cost of living crisis, we’re of course seeing customers wanting to get the best service possible, but also wanting to save where they can. That being said, despite the challenges of the pandemic and economic shifts, we have evolved by diversifying in

our services, ensuring we’re getting quality parts for the best price possible, engaging with the community, and maintaining a commitment to both customer service and operational improvement.

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT CHALLENGES?

We’ve got a few challenges at the moment, as every business always does! The first being our want for Workshop Expansion and Upgrades. With plans to improve the workshop and expand the customer waiting area, managing the logistics, costs, and potential disruptions during these upgrades is a significant task. Another is staying competitive. As more garages offer similar services, standing

out in a competitive market can be difficult. Maintaining competitive pricing, exceptional service quality, and keeping up with the latest technology are crucial for staying ahead. And of course, with electric and hybrid vehicles coming into play. Ensuring the business is prepared to handle these new technologies with appropriate training and equipment is an ongoing challenge. Tackling these challenges while continuing to deliver high quality service and expanding community engagement are key to the future success of Billingborough Cars and Commercials.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

We have some exciting developments at Billingborough Cars and Commercials! We're working with local colleges and schools to deliver workshops aimed at students interested in the automotive trade. We're also planning an open evening for new drivers, where we'll teach vehicle maintenance basics. Following the success of our first car shows earlier this year, we're making them an annual event. Additionally, we're looking to improve our workshop facilities and expand the waiting area for our customers.

WHO IS YOUR INSPIRATION IN BUSINESS?

Our inspiration in business is rooted in family, our grandfather and father, who initially founded and built the business. They were not only dedicated to their craft but also committed to the values of hard work, integrity, and customer care. Watching them build the business from the ground up has shaped our own approach to how we operate today. Their determination to provide honest, high-quality service, coupled with their ability to build trust with customers, remains a guiding force for us. They showed us the importance of resilience and adapting to challenges without ever compromising on quality. Their legacy inspires us to continue pushing forward, expanding the business, and keeping those core values alive. We aim to honour their contributions by not just maintaining the business but growing it in a way that reflects the standards and

"In addition to our key areas of focus, we remain deeply committed to our core values of integrity, quality, and customer care."

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT?

Our American Classic Car Show was truly a proud moment for us. Hosted right here at Billingborough Cars and Commercials, it brought together our customers, an incredible display of American classic cars, and a great sense of community – all in support of Cancer Research. What made it even more special was that it was held in loving memory of our late father, Ian. It felt like a fullcircle moment with my children, Russell’s daughter, our grandmother, and our mother all there. It was as if every aspect of our family and the garage came together in one meaningful event.

HOW ARE YOU ADAPTING FOR THE YEARS AHEAD?

At Billingborough Cars and Commercials, we're adapting for the future by focusing on key areas. When the time comes, we plan on making technology investments by upgrading our tools and diagnostic equipment to efficiently service modern vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.

Billingborough American Car Show

Very recently we’re focussing on Workforce Development. By collaborating with local colleges and schools, we aim to inspire young talent and address the shortage of skilled mechanics through workshops and training opportunities. Just next month myself and a couple of technicians are delivering a workshop at Walton School in Grantham. As mentioned earlier, we plan to enhance the customer experience by expanding our workshop and upgrading the waiting area for greater comfort. And of course, our community engagement! Our annual car shows will continue, strengthening our community presence while supporting meaningful causes like Cancer Research.

In addition to our key areas of focus, we remain deeply committed to our core values of integrity, quality, and customer care. Our family run approach means that every customer is treated like part of our extended family, and we strive to build long lasting relationships based on trust. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and the potential for growth. Our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation will ensure that we adapt to changing market

demands while maintaining the high standards that our customers have come to expect. We appreciate the support from our community, customers, and partners, which drives us to be better every day. Together, we look forward to a bright future at Billingborough Cars and Commercials, where we can continue to provide exceptional service and contribute positively to our community.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN WORKING WITH WITHAM GROUP?

We’ve worked with Witham Oil since day one, so 56 years. WHICH PRODUCTS AND SERVICES DO WE SUPPLY TO YOU?

Witham Group supplies all the oils we need for the cars that come in for repair at Billingborough Cars and Commercials. That can be anything from engine oils, transmission fluids, and other essential lubricants, meaning we can maintain and service vehicles to the highest standards. They have also recently installed bulk storage tanks to help improve our workshop space and cleaner and easier storage of oil.

WHAT

IS IMPORTANT TO YOU IN A SUPPLIER?

We tend to work with suppliers that provide the best for our customers. Trust and reliability are essential, as we need suppliers that consistently deliver on time to keep our operations running smoothly. While quality is crucial, we also seek competitive pricing to maintain cost effectiveness. Additionally, we look for those who prioritise environmentally friendly practices and products that align with our values.

We work with Witham Group because they offer cost effective solutions and are a local Lincolnshire business. Their team consistently goes above and beyond to meet our needs. Our account manager, Jack, is fantastic; he regularly visits to check in and ensure everything is running smoothly. The level of client care they provide is exceptional. Overall, our relationship with Witham Oil is built on a strong mutual trust and a shared commitment to quality and service.

Managing Director Russ Houlden & Head of Marketing Robyn Houlden

The Diary of a TEAM GB Clay Shoot Champion

William Gilbert

I started clay shooting over 10 years ago, after I was encouraged to have a go by my father, who had just returned to the sport after a long break. Since winning my first competition aged 12, I have never looked back. I take my shooting very seriously, but it does have to fit around my time at The University of Nottingham, where I have been studying for a Law degree for the past two years. During term-time I compete for the University Shooting Club in the Sporting competitions. This year I was elected to the position of Men’s Team Captain, and as a committee member, I am involved in organising taster sessions for prospective members. I also help to support and encourage existing club members during competitions and our weekly training sessions at Doveridge Clay Sports Club.

My 21st birthday was in July, so this is my last year as a Junior. I fully accept that my studies and exams have to take priority over my shooting, but I have tried to make the most of my summer holiday, when not helping out on the family farm. This year I attended three British Shooting Shotgun Series events. I came away with a minimum consideration score, and two Gold medals in the Junior Men’s finals, which qualified me to compete for Team GBR in the Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru. I am pleased to say that I came 10th in the Junior Men's category, with a score of 115. This was just one point short of qualifying for the shoot-offs for the final. I then competed in the Mixed Pairs competition where I came 9th with teammate Leah Southall.

My qualification scores at these events also enabled me to gain selection for the England Team, which competed at the Home Countries International Tournament, hosted by Scotland at the National Shooting Centre near Falkirk. Despite the rather miserable cold, wet and windy conditions, England triumphed, winning all the team trophies.

This November I will be travelling to New Delhi to compete in the FISU World University Championships, which is sanctioned by BUCS and supported by British Shooting. I am also planning to compete in the BUCS Clay Shooting Championship, which will be held at Doveridge.

Whilst my focus during this competition season has been on Olympic Trap, I still enjoy other trap disciplines, and recently won the Regional Automatic Ball Trap Championship at Nottingham & DGC. This title is always keenly contested, and I am thrilled to have won it for the first time after a 3-way shoot-off. I have also just won my 10th successive Junior and 3rd successive Senior/Open Norfolk County ABT Champion titles.

I attribute much of my success to my careful choice of equipment. I have always used Eley Hawk cartridges and am grateful for the sponsorship and support that I have received from them over the past 5 years. My competition guns are a Beretta SO5 Trap gun and an SO5 Sporter, which were both presents from my parents. To clean and protect my guns I use Witham’s Estate Range Gun Barrel & Choke Cleaner, and Gun Oil. They are quick and easy to use, and don’t leave any sticky residues behind. This ensures that my guns stay in the best condition, which has definitely been a challenge during the harsh weather conditions that we have often experienced this year.

HELPING BUILD A BETTER FUTURE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

James Peck returned to the family farm in 1999 and started PX Farms in 2003. The family became one of the first businesses he contract farmed. Over 20 years later, James purchased the family farm, which was always a long term plan and today, he and his team work hard to diversify the business, developing more sustainable agricultural practices. We recently caught up with James to find how the farm is growing from strength to strength…

TELL US ABOUT THE FARM AND WHAT YOU DO?

After studying at Lackham Agricultural College and Writtle Agricultural College (university) and then managing Peck’s Contracting Services for five years, I took on the family farm of 750 acres and 150 acres in contract, under P.X. Farms Ltd. Today, we farm 12,500 acres (8,500 around Cambridge, 2,000 in Lincolnshire, and 2,000 in Bedfordshire / Hertfordshire) with a mixture of rentals, owned land, and contract farming. Most of the land is within an 18mile radius of Scotland Farm, in Cambridge, but there is also land 71 miles away in one direction and 34 miles in another. A proud moment was when I won the Farmers Weekly Firestone Young Farmer of the Year award in 2006 and, in 2010, was awarded a prestigious Nuffield Farming Scholarship to study the future of arable farming.

Today, we are a modern family agribusiness, embracing diversification from just outside Cambridge in the UK and future proofing the family farm and those of our farming partners. We continue to grow the P.X. Farms brand with an expert team specialising in farming, crop storage, crop lab testing, haulage, crop hospital, lettings, and building. Have 51 people working with us now, as a mix of full and part-time work along with casual workers joining us for the harvest season.

We offer over 100,000 tonnes of crop storage and have a fully accredited lab with 16 crop tests to help make better decisions. In addition, we have two calibrated weighbridges to get more precise data and sample taking of the grain.

Our delivery service hauls combinable crops, fertilisers, and agricultural products around the UK with our reliable VOSA registered fleet and experienced drivers. We’ve seen underused farm buildings developed into successful office units and residential lettings, as well as land not viable for farming used in more diverse ways.

Our customers vary in their type from Blue Chip companies to other land owners, institutions and residential and commercial tenants.

HOW HAS THE BUSINESS CHANGED OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS

Since 2014 the business has doubled in size, now farming over 12,500 acres. We have grown by setting out to farm for others. Our ethos is to “Adapt, Innovate and Overcome." However, like most land owners and farmers, it’s not an easy ride. The change in subsidies has caused a gap in the finances, the timing of the drilling as a result of poor weather conditions has led to a reduction in yields and so our biggest challenges at the moment are the weather and the Government!

The future of farming is twofold for me: it’s about supporting and working together through the challenging times and celebrating the good times, and it’s also about combining scale for efficiencies of economies and specialism to build value.

We've decided as a business that we want to focus on growing crops. Producing food, that is our role in society. We do a lot of environmental work and regenerative agriculture. We need to find the right balance.

BALANCING FARMING AND THE ENVIRONMENT

By taking better care of our soil and coupling innovation with regenerative farming practices, we're able to work in better harmony with the countryside. Soil health is at the heart of what we do. How do we reduce the impact on the environment yet still increase our crop yield and farming efficiencies for our own and partner farms? By taking care of our soil. Our soil health management supports growing clean quality crops from rich living soil with plenty of microorganisms. By improving organic matter, we encourage soil health and reduce the need for pesticides, preventing resistant weeds with reduced variable input demand.

We reduce the intensity of farming through regenerative agriculture practices. We measure, evaluate, and plan how to introduce regenerative farming practices on every piece of land we take on. We're always trying to repair and improve soil health and maximise species diversity. And our existing services, like our lab and our crop hospital, help identify challenges and how best to move forward.

I undertook a Nuffield Scholarship back in 2010, "Arable Farming, Where Next?" and travelled the world, studying

farming practices in Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, China, India, and Argentina. One of the key takeaways was how innovative practices are progressing positive change, and Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF) adoption was essential for P.X. Farms as part of James' Adapt | Innovate | Overcome ethos. CTF is where you adjust all your machinery to run on the same tramlines, reducing the compaction and damage to soil.

We've adjusted all our machinery axle widths to 11.9m width and 1.8m internal track spacing. This has reduced fuel cost by an average of 12%, improved soil health and crop yield with less compacted soil, improved drainage, and reduced wear and tear on machinery.

CTF has helped us improve our soil quality across our and our partner farms to the point that we've been able to grow different crops in varying soil structures. Yield and nutrient mapping also helps us quickly detect weed, nutrient deficiency, drainage and soil compaction issues. Part of our long-term soil health strategy, we're able to implement a more targeted, efficient approach to increase soil potential and help areas that require more attention. By gathering important data over time, we can make more informed decisions and review performance over time, adjusting as we need. In addition, by using GPS with fixed-position base stations to transmit signals, our applications can be more accurate. Aligning with the base stations helps to correct positioning errors caused by the atmosphere.

Our precision drill and sprayer machinery has sectional control from Real Time Kinematic (RTK), reducing inputs by 3-5%, resulting in less pollution. We use a sprayer instead of a spinning disc to increase accuracy and precision

implement new approaches, test what works and what doesn't, and continue innovating.

SPREADING THE WORD TO NEW AUDIENCES

In 2011, we started the PX Farms You Tube Channel, allowing viewers to share in our daily struggles, and triumphs of running the farm business. Honest and raw, it shows what British Agriculture is all about and I am really proud that we now have almost 17,000 followers and have posted over 112 informative videos which had over 2 million views. You can follow James and life at PX Farms visit: youtube.com@PX_Farms

WHEN DID YOU START USING WITHAM GROUP?

I met Nigel from Witham back in the year 2000 at a farming show, Witham has a man Neil Benstead on the ground to manage our oils and high life grease which fits well with our business. We get everything from Oils to Grease to Paint from Witham Group and these then go into Tractors, Combines and forklifts.

Service and warranty validation are really important to us and at certain times of the year we run 24 hours, 7 days a week, so we need partners who can support us during these high pressure times. Witham Group provides that for us and we have a great working relationship.

WORKSHOP FOCUS

KEEP IT CLEAN THIS WINTER

At this time of year our cars and vehicles can get filthy and we need to keep them clean to ensure good vision and safe running on the roads...

VEHICLE CLEANING

DE-ICER

GENERAL PURPOSE TFR

Our General Purpose Traffic Film Remover (TFR) is used in power wash sprayers and high pressure cleaning equipment. This special d etergent is diluted to remove stubborn dirt, traffic film and road coatings from all vehicles. A great all round product for home and business use.

SIZES: 25LTR | 200LTR | 1000LTR

GOLD TRAFFIC FILM REMOVER

Our Gold top quality Traffic Film Remover (TFR) not only cleans off dirt, grease and road grime easily but also leaves vehicles with a high gloss shiny finish. Suitable for use on all vehicles, and types of paint, this is our bestselling vehicle cleaner.

SIZES: 25LTR | 200LTR | 1000LTR

Car Plan Blue Star De-Icer is a fast acting de-icer, formulated to effectively defrost windscreens leaving a clear finish for increased visibility. Melts ice fast and helps prevent re-freezing down to -15°C.

APPLICATION - Shake can well. Remove cap and spray onto frozen windscreens. Re-apply if not fully melted. Store in an upright position.

� Melts ice fast

� Spray operates down to -15°C

� Easy to use

ALL SEASONS SCREENWASH

Our excellent All Seasons Screenwash is a concentrated high power windscreen washer additive. It quickly removes dirt, grime & insect deposits from windscreens, leaving a bright streakfree finish. When used neat, All Seasons Screenwash also helps prevent the washer bottle contents from freezing.

MANY VICTORIES FOR OUR DRIVERS & TEAMS IN A THRILLING 2024 SEASON

We have had an exhilarating past few months, following and supporting customers and teams at a series of exciting motorsport events across the UK. The results have been nothing short of spectacular. We are proud to supply top-tier products and specialist lubricant expertise to a wonderful diverse range of customers in the dynamic world of motorsport. We have been really proud to watch the hard work, dedication and continuous efforts of

our impressive drivers and teams, both on the track but also behind the scenes, in the pits, and in the garages. We are always amazed by the incredible teamwork that is needed to get this sport underway and would like to thank all our customers, partners and friends who have in turn supported Witham Motorsport. We are already looking forward to more exciting action next year but here is just a snapshot of our busy season in 2024.

SPEEDWORKS MOTORSPORT CONCLUDES BTCC

SEASON

ON A HIGH NOTE

Speedworks Motorsport capped off a successful 2024 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) season with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing UK team. Drivers Rob Huff and Andrew Watson consistently delivered strong performances throughout the year, displaying the team's skill and the power of their Toyota Corolla GR Sport.

The season finale was a fitting end to a year of hard work and dedication. Both Huff and Watson demonstrated their exceptional driving abilities and the competitiveness of the Toyota Corolla GR Sport. The team's strong performance solidified their position as a top contender in the BTCC and set the stage for future success.

Witham Motorsport is a proud supporter of Speedworks Motorsport and the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing UK team. Congratulations to the whole team on a fantastic 2024 season.

WITHAM CONTINUES SUPPORT FOR PIRELLI WELSH CHAMPIONSHIP

We have been continuing our support of the Pirelli Welsh Championship this year and also drivers Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear, in their Delta Salvage / Witham Motorsport Fiesta R5.

The championship features stages in the Welsh counties like Powys and Carmarthenshire, as well as in the iconic Clocaenog Forest and includes exciting gravel stages, forest stages, and single-use

roads. The unstoppable duo has secured impressive victories in the opening two rounds and have been leading much of the championship until recently.

While they faced a retirement on the Nicky Grist Stages, Hirst and Dear are currently 4th in the championship, and recently updated their car to a new Skoda Fabia R5, hoping to take back their lead in the championship.

PODIUM FINISH FOR OVENDEN IN FRONT OF HOME CROWD

Tristan Ovenden was back in action at his home circuit of Lydden Hill in Kent, where the Motorsport UK British Rallycross Championship 5 Nations Trophy held rounds 5 and 6. Despite showing strong pace and securing front row starts for both finals, he faced setbacks in the opening laps, finishing 6th on the Saturday and 3rd on the Sunday. However, his performance in the final race on the Sunday was particularly impressive, as he executed a well-timed joker lap and held his position to claim a podium finish.

Ovenden was understandably delighted with his podium finish and praised his team's hard work throughout the weekend and expressed his gratitude for the support he received.

MOTORSPORT

CALUM LOCKIE CONTINUES TO IMPRESS IN HISTORIC RACING

Classic race car driver, Calum Lockie, has been consistently delivering outstanding performances in the Masters Historic Racing series across Europe. Earlier this summer, Calum showcased his exceptional skill at Circuit Paul Ricard in France, securing a remarkable victory in the GT3 class. Starting from 45th on the grid, he expertly manoeuvred his way up to 24th overall, setting the fastest lap and claiming the Index of Performance win.

August brought even more success for Calum at the BRNO Revival in the Czech Republic. Driving from pole position, he secured a dominant class win and achieved an impressive second place in the overall circuit classification.

We are proud to support Calum and his team with our high-quality lubricants, ensuring that his classic race cars perform at their peak.

CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR PROTYRE ASPHALT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations to Callum Black and Jack Morton who have clinched the Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship title for the second consecutive year. Their impressive performance throughout the season solidified their position as top contenders in the motorsport world.

Additionally, a special shout-out goes to the Roskell Motorsport team, Neil Roskell and Dai Roberts, for securing a commendable second-place finish overall.

Witham Motorsport remains a steadfast supporter of the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship, and we have had the pleasure of witnessing some exhilarating races throughout the series. We are honoured to be the official lubricants partner and contribute to the success of this championship.

Todd Crooks has had a roller coaster season in the BTRDA Clubman’s Rallycross Championship. The year began on a high note with a dominant victory at Blyton Park.

They also managed 2nd overall in the BTRDA Clubman’s Rallycross Championship at Lydden Hill and then 4th in the super final after a very close race long battle. However, a series of mechanical issues, including a turbo failure and gearbox problems, have hampered their championship aspirations.

TODD CROOKS MOTORSPORT A YEAR OF UPS AND DOWNS

Despite these challenges, the team has shown resilience and determination. They have consistently demonstrated their speed and ability to compete at the highest level. With the championship out of reach, the focus now shifts to securing more wins and podium finishes at the remaining rounds.

The team remains optimistic about the future and is determined to bounce back from these setbacks. With the right combination of speed and reliability, they can still make a significant impact on the championship.

CIRCUIT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

AWARDS NIGHT

Witham Group Sales Director Richard Scarbrough had the privilege of presenting awards at the Circuit Rally Championship awards night earlier in the summer. Witham Motorsport is proud to be a supporter of this prestigious championship.

Congratulations to the winners:

� First Overall Driver & Co-driver: Michael Igoe and Will Atkins

� Second Overall: John Griffiths and Emma Morrison

� Best Event: The Alan Healy Memorial Rally, organized by Border Motor Club (Lincs) and represented by Dennis Sanford

We also extend our congratulations to the other award winners who were unable to attend the ceremony.

MOTORSPORT

TOM OVENDEN DOMINATES

MINI CHALLENGE UK AT CROFT

Congratulations to Tom Ovenden from Ovenden Motorsport for his win in the MINI CHALLENGE UK at Croft Circuit in July. Tom has been having great success this season in the championship and we are proud to support him with his motorsport lubricants.

Tom Ovenden, a rising star in British motorsport, (and son of Tristian Ovenden mentioned earlier in success in the British Rallycross Championship), continued

his impressive form in the MINI CHALLENGE UK Championship with a dominant victory at Croft Circuit in July. The talented driver secured a hardfought win, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination.

We are proud to provide Tom and his team with highperformance lubricants that play a crucial role in ensuring optimal engine performance and reliability.

RICHARD'S CONTINUED RALLYING SUCCESS

Witham Group's very own Richard Scarbrough has been making waves in the rallying world this year! Co-driving with Dan Bird in a Fiesta R5, he's already secured four victories out of five rallies.

Richard's most recent win came at the Jordan Stages Rally in Fulbeck. This followed a hard-fought eighthplace finish at the Lookout Stages in Abingdon, where a minor setback early on cost them valuable

time. Despite the challenge, they managed to claw their way back to a respectable finish. And let's not forget his impressive win at the Rex Premier Anniversary Stages at Blyton, where he proudly sported his new Witham Motorsport overalls.

Congratulations, Richard, on your fantastic achievements! We are all rooting for you and Dan as you continue to make your mark in the rallying scene.

A WEEKEND OF SPEED AND CELEBRATION AT CADWELL PARK

We recently had the pleasure of attending the Moto 90th Anniversary event at Cadwell Park. As a longstanding partner of Welbourns of Wisbech, one of the event's participants, we were thrilled to be a part of this historic occasion.

Cadwell Park, a beloved venue in the British Superbike Championship, celebrated its 90th anniversary of racing with a weekend packed with excitement. The event featured a line-up of special

guests, live music, and a variety of activities for fans of all ages.

The weekend included track day sessions, parades, live music, club and trade stands, and even an offroad adventure bike course in partnership with Rally Moto. Racing legends from Cadwell Park's history were also on hand to share their stories and meet with fans and we were proud to be a part of this fantastic celebration.

MOTORSPORT

LEPLEY BROTHERS READY TO RUMBLE IN BRITISH HISTORIC RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

Following a well-earned summer hiatus, the Lepley brothers are gearing up to make their mark on the British Historic Rally Championship. George and James Lepley have been honing their skills and fine-tuning their strategy in preparation for the resumption of the series.

The talented duo have been swapping driving duties, allowing each other to share valuable

insights and strengthen their teamwork. With their combined experience and competitive spirit, the Lepley brothers are poised to make a significant impact on the championship.

Witham Motorsport is proud to support Lepley Motorsport and we wish them all the best for the rest of the season.

Off the track, business has been booming at Jason Lepley Motorsport. They have recently updated their workshop and showroom, and we were happy to supply Witham Woco paint for the job.

WELL DONE & THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DRIVERS, TEAMS AND CAR CLUBS THIS SEASON