Farming Monthly National October 2023 by Farming Monthly Ltd

INSIDE: Jam-packed machinery demos at Midlands Machinery Show - Pages 44 - 45

Farming MONTHLY National

October 2023

Can potatoes be grown regeneratively on a commercial basis?

312 10 £4.95

Women in Farming

NFU talk bTB policy

Hay storage management

October 2023

Also inside this month..

page 34 - 35

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ONLY ONE WEEK TO GO!

15-16 NOV 2023 NEC BIRMINGHAM

DON’T FORGET TO COME TO UK’S ONLY PREMIER DIVERSIFICATION EVENT Explore endless possibilities, from harnessing wind and solar energy to creating inviting holiday cottages, luxury glamping experiences, and thriving farm shops. Leave with ideas and knowledge on how you can make the most out of your land and seize the moment and future-proof your farm. Experience diverse seminars, from tackling labour shortages in rural businesses to understanding carbon markets, exploring farm diversification with holiday lets, delving into self-storage as a remote business, and more.

WHY VISIT?

See more than 420 exhibitors

across four shows

Diversify your income streams

Network with industry professionals

Explore cutting-edge solutions

Get expert industry insights

THIS EVENT RUNS ALONGSIDE:

To register for your free ticket, scan the QR code or visit:

farmbusinessshow.co.uk

SCAN ME

CONTENTS O c t o b e r 2023

FEATURES

22 Arable

70 Muck & Slurry

92 Tyres

28 Grain 32 British Lifestyle 34 Potatoes & Root Crops 42 Midlands Machinery Show

FM REGULARS National

48 Mental Health

50 Women in Farming

6 News

78 Machinery

62 Farm Safety & Security

52 Energy

98 ATV

62 Livestock

56 Buildings

108 Motors

Farming

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Yamaha prove essential for Britain’s wettest farmland

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For editorial, general enquiries or to advertise please call +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com Farming Monthly National is published monthly in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Printed in the UK No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or publication. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as required and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved. ISSN 2044-0190 (print) ISSN 2044-0200 (digital)

New high horsepower tyre sizes Farming

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Farmers' handbook highlights volatile farm output prices P

rice levels for the main farm outputs have been volatile in the last year according to the latest edition of the Farm Management Handbook. The 2023/24 edition highlights how gross margins are being heavily influenced by changes to both output price and variable costs. Among the variable costs are fertiliser prices, which have reduced by around 50 per cent between spring 2022 and spring 2023, helping improve business viability in some farming sectors.

The Farm Management Handbook is an essential tool for farm businesses, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date source of information on budgets for Farming

people working in agriculture. Edited by SAC Consulting on behalf of the Farm Advisory Service, the 44th edition of handbook is now available online.

Rural College (SRUC), said: "Farm output prices have been as volatile as ever between 2022 and 2023 and higher interest rates are adding to the uncertainty at present.

Across the farm sectors, gross margins have decreased for dairy and increased for beef, while for sheep it depends on the farming system.

"While we cannot avoid some upward and downward movement to market price levels, large swings to output price make it very difficult for farmers to plan for the future. "Taking a little time out and using the handbook to consider how the relevant gross margins impact upon your business is time well spent." The handbook is available for free from the Farm Advisory Service website. A printed edition is also available at a cost of £32 plus postage and packaging. Find out more at www.fas.scot

Despite a reduction in fertiliser input costs, cereals gross margins have reduced following a reduction in exfarm cereal prices. Grain prices remain influenced by world grain stocks and grain exports from Ukraine. Farm Management Handbook editor Alastair Beattie, from SAC Consulting – part of Scotland's

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Scotland's marts generated £605m last year he Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS) has released its 2022 throughput figures gathered from its members, who operate auction markets in Scotland.

the previous year, generating just over £605m for the 2022 calendar year." Both throughput and revenues represent a slight year-on-year increase. Total cattle numbers were down by just over 3.5%, reflecting the continued decline in the national herd. Sheep numbers showed a slight increase in the year, resulting in a higher total headage throughput. Mr Hutcheon, who took over as President earlier this year, added:

Alan Hutcheon, IAAS President, said: "Markets recorded total throughput of 2.76m head of livestock, a small increase on

"The headline figures are pleasing, given the ongoing pressures facing farmers and IAAS would like to thank all of our customers who use the live ring, either as the place to sell stock to the highest bidder, or for buyers to efficiently buy the

livestock with the right specifications for their needs." He noted that cull cow numbers have increased 11.5% for the year, raising concerns surrounding the continued reduction of beef breeding cattle numbers and the availability of youngstock for breeding and finishing. "Younger cattle supply remains tight against demand for the same driving the store cattle trade higher," he explained. "Good quality breeding cattle are still in demand, however any stock not reaching the quality demanded by buyers is proving more difficult to move at the moment. This is what underpins our view that the breeding herd continues to contract at a higher rate than the long run average."

Farming

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Do You Need Additional Slurry Storage Or Have Environmental Issues? f you need more storage for liquids like slurry then the Serena pillow bag offers the easiest and most cost effective solution. With a 600m3 (132,000 gallons) for under £20,000. The Serena bag is designed to last 20 years plus and where we have theses bags in the Tunisian desert under extreme UV pressure for nearly 50 years. With no planning required due to it being temporary storage the installation is simple by have in flat area to site the bag. I would always recommend a bunded site which can be soil from the site as it is levelled. We all hope not to experience vandalism, but the bund acts as an insurance policy against malicious attacks such as the tap being opened. Bunding the site provides the environmental protection in case of such incidents. The bag will handle slurry from straw, paper and sawdust bedding with sand being to only option not suitable. There is no crusting during storage so mixing before using the product is not

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required. For longer term storage over 3 months there may be some settling of the product so we would recommend mixing the bag every 3 months. The bag comes with 1 outlet as standard from 3-8 inch options. Adding additional fittings to suit your needs and also providing the option to stir the bag. The easiest way to stir the bag is to have an outlet on each of the front corners and using an umbilical pump suck out and pump directly back in to circulate the bag. The bags offer a simple and effective way to meet your environmental storage requirements that are cost effective and flexible in location choice. Why wait until your current storage is about to overflow and panic about the consequences of the damage and possible fines for non-compliance to the clean water code. Prevention is better than the cure, this saying rings true for your slurry waste system. No Fuss, No Mess!

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British food and farming must be a priority A

t this year’s party conferences, the NFU is showcasing why British food and farming needs to be a priority for all political parties ahead of the general

election. The NFU will once again have a prominent presence at both the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester and the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool. Its interactive stand will include a gator utility vehicle, a glasshouse to demonstrate the importance of growth in the horticulture sector, and a typical British landscape featuring sheep, trees, hedges and wildflower borders to reflect the work

tel: 01724 850224 fax: 01724 289317

farmers do to care for the environment. Delegates will also have the opportunity to pledge their commitment to championing British farming. The party conferences come against the backdrop of years of uncertainty in the farming sector, as soaring production costs, global market instability caused by the ongoing war in Ukraine, extreme bouts of weather and delays to new farm payments have all put pressure on homegrown food production. NFU President Minette Batters said: “It’s more important than ever for political parties to back British food and farming. “The nation’s food security has rarely been more prominent than in the past few years, and with the challenges we’ve faced it’s clear that we need to reassess how we value food and farming. Let’s not forget, this is a sector which forms the backbone of our rural communities, our much-loved countryside and our food and drink industry, which is worth more than £100 billion to the national economy and employs four million people. “Party conferences are a chance for the NFU to showcase all that British farming delivers, but also for MPs, Peers, councillors and party members to show their support for a sector which gives so much to the nation.

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Farming

“What we do is important to every single person who eats food. With a general election fast approaching, all parties need to carefully consider the long-term future of farming and how they will help boost homegrown food production. Because British food cannot fail.”

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ForFarmers cultivates leadership through apprenticeship programme

orFarmers has launched an apprenticeship scheme to develop and nurture future leaders within the business.

The scheme, which starts in October, will consist of an 18-month programme designed to equip participants with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to excel in leadership roles within ForFarmers. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, ForFarmers aims to enhance its leadership capabilities and ensure a bright future for both the company and the wider agricultural industry. The two apprenticeship courses, "Level 3 Team Leader" and "Level 5 Operational Management," are being delivered by partner organisation Itec. They will provide a comprehensive and tailored learning experience for employees from various departments across the company. Over 70 employees have been selected to join the first cohort, marking a significant investment in the professional development of ForFarmers' workforce. Steven Read, ForFarmers UK Managing Director, said: 'Any business is only as good as the individuals within in, and particularly its leaders and future leaders. At ForFarmers we believe in this passionately and it is what ultimately will enable us to achieve our mission For The Future of Farming. "With this in mind I am delighted that we are embarking on an apprenticeship programme that will enable the professional development of so many colleagues. I am therefore pleased to welcome ForFarmers' first group to their studies this month. It will be the first of many and will be part of what enables us to really live our values." James Pearson, Director at Itec, added: "We are thrilled to have been selected as ForFarmers' exclusive Learning Partner for their Leadership Apprenticeship. Collaborating closely with the ForFarmers team, we are dedicated to crafting a truly unique and adaptable Leadership Development Programme for managers." For more information on ForFarmers and its career development opportunities visit www.forfarmers.co.uk Farming

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Pembrokeshire farmers at a crossroads due to environment scheme chaos tenant farming family from Pembrokeshire is at a crossroads, as they try to make sense of the ongoing chaos caused by the Habitat Wales scheme and uncertainty around future funding. Haydn and Julia Mathias farm at Moor Farm, Cresselly, Kilgetty, where they keep a herd of suckler cows in an organic system on 177 acres. The farm has always been in some form of agri environment scheme starting with the Preseli ESA which led to Tir Gofal and in more recent years Glastir Entry leading to Glastir Advanced. They have also participated in Welsh Government organic schemes since they started in organic conversion in 2001. “The EOI for the Habitat Wales Scheme, if accepted, will generate approximately £2,404 for the farm. In 2022 our Glastir Advanced contract generated £5,190.93 and our Glastir Organic contract generated £4,457.20. With both these contracts ending on 31 December 2023, we are now looking at a drop of 75% in our income in 2024 if we are offered a contract for the Habitat Wales Scheme,” said Mr Mathias.

“Yes we have the income of the youngstock cattle sales and income for the tack sheep, but much of this is outweighed by the cost of production plus ever increasing bills. “We also feel that all of the hard work which we and thousands of other farmers across Wales have done over a long period of time to enhance habitat land and to contribute towards Welsh Government’s green targets has not been appreciated or respected and we, like many, are very disillusioned,” added Mrs Mathias. The couple opened their farm gates to local Member of the Senedd Samuel Kurtz to discuss the challenges they face and Union officials further highlighted concerns around the Habitat Wales scheme. FUW Pembrokeshire County Officer Rebecca Voyle said: “Haydn and Julia are a prime example of what good practice looks like when it comes to a balance Farming

of food production and looking after the land. Yet the barriers they face and the financial repercussions outside of their control, put the whole system into question. “There are serious problems with funding and whilst we appreciate that budgets are tight and further cuts have been made to the rural affairs budget, that does little to alleviate the pressures on farms.” Union staff further outlined the wide range of issues around the application process, including concerns around Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) eligibility for wooded areas and mapping errors. “We have come across numerous problems of land being identified incorrectly as habitat land or being identified as the wrong type of habitat, which has led to significant concerns for farmers when trying to apply for the scheme. “Unfortunately, whilst the Welsh Government tried to streamline the application process, due to the time pressures of needing to issue contracts before 1 January 2024, this has meant that there is limited scope within the process to enable farmers to correct any errors which they find which is causing an enormous amount of frustration,” added Mrs Voyle. Mr Kurtz further heard how those issues have led the farming community to be even more concerned about the incoming Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). “Whilst we are still awaiting the final detailed consultation for the SFS to be published we are very aware that the Welsh Government intends to introduce the scheme in 2025, which is less than 18 months away. Having seen what has happened with the application process for the Habitat Wales Scheme we are concerned about how all the different elements which will be required for the SFS will be incorporated into the application process, how accurate any data used for different elements of the scheme will be and what flexibility will be built into the application process to enable farmers to make adjustments. We sincerely hope that lessons will be learnt from what has happened with the Habitat Wales Scheme application process,” added Mrs Voyle.

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BFREPA announces winners of inaugural Young Producers Initiative ifteen young producers have won a place at Europe’s largest free range egg conference through a new initiative launched by the British Free Range Egg Producers Association and Wynnstay Humphrey Feed and Pullets.

Ranging from 18 to 30-years-old, the group will attend BFREPA Live in Telford next month with entrance to the event, a seat at the awards dinner, and hotel accommodation all included. A huge number of applications were received for the opportunity to learn more about free range egg production, including seeing all the latest innovations on show at the exhibition, networking with the industry, and listening to the conference speakers. Aberdeenshirebased Angus and Lauren Dowell are among those selected. The married couple recently began their venture into free range with their first flock of 64,000 birds, which was delivered in August. “We’ve only had our hens for six weeks and BFREPA Live will be a great way for us to get involved in the wider industry,” Lauren said. “It’ll be good to speak to industry experts who can help us expand our knowledge as we venture into a new industry for us.” Also winning a place is 18-year-old Emily Hollins, an agriculture student from Reaseheath College. “I am keen to meet like-minded young producers alongside interacting with senior members and hearing about their personal journeys within the sector,” Emily said. “I think this is a great opportunity to learn more about new initiatives in the industry and generally expand my knowledge.” The other winners are: Caleb Samuel, Richard Mottershead, Henry Gibbs, William Powell, Catherine Price, Bethany Irwin, Natalie and Alex Wrath, Harrison Hollins, Samuel Barker, Rebecca Goodings, and Charlie Forsyth.

Richard Jones, National Poultry Business Manager at Wynnstay Humphrey Feeds and Pullets, said: “We are delighted to support the inaugural BFREPA Young Producers Initiative for the 2023 event. “It is paramount to our industry that we nurture the next generation of producers by facilitating their participation in industry events. “This commitment is integral to securing a prosperous future for the free range egg industry.” In partnership with Noble Foods, and sponsored by ForFarmers, Elanco, Newquip and Boehringer Ingleheim BFREPA Live 23 has been reformatted into a one-day conference and exhibition, with the BFREPA Free Range Awards dinner, hosted by comedian Al Murray, taking place in the evening. During the day, BFREPA Chairman James Baxter will tell his avian influenza story for the first time. Mr Baxter’s 192,000 hens were culled in January after contracting bird flu. There will also be a panel on AI vaccination, hosted by BFREPA CEO Robert Gooch with APHA’s Gordon Hickman, Dave Hodson from Rosehill Poultry, and Crowshall’s vet Ian Lowery joining as panellists. A debate will be held on whether there should be a Great Britain-wide vaccination programme, the pros and cons of having one, and how it might work if it became a reality. This year’s Free Range Awards dinner will be bigger than ever with over 650 guests already booked. Tickets for BFREPA Live 23 and the dinner on Wednesday 15 November are still on sale at www.bfrepa.co.uk. BFREPA members who purchase tickets are entitled to receive a refund of one ticket per membership, refunded against next years’ membership subscription. Farming

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NFU Education sparks passion for farming at Number 10

orty schoolchildren have had the unique experience to join NFU Education at Number 10 Downing Street for a tailor-made lesson on food and farming.

The Year 5 and 6 pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School in Yeovil, Somerset, were invited into Number 10 to explore the world of agriculture as part of the ‘Lessons at 10’ series, an initiative organised by the Prime Minister’s wife, Akshata Murty. The lesson introduced the children to British food and farming through NFU Education’s Farming STEMterprise project and challenged them to invent their own finger foods using a range of British ingredients. And the challenge didn’t stop there – the children also had to market their creations and explain the many benefits of using homegrown British produce. Working in teams, they were supported by an NFU Education Farmers for Schools ambassador, who offered firsthand insights into how they produce high quality, climate-friendly, nutritious food. Hailing from Lancashire to Sussex, they were able to share their expert knowledge of their sectors in dairy, arable, horticulture and sheep farming. NFU Education Manager Josh Payne said: “This event provided an exceptional learning opportunity for these children to understand the importance of

the vital world of British farming. It’s a brilliant programme, and it’s wonderful to see Ms Murty recognising the value of teaching key STEM subjects through the lens of food and farming. “It’s important to encourage young people and make agriculture relevant and interesting so they can become more involved in the countryside and rural areas as they grow older. “It’s been great to run this session and hopefully it has not only excited the children about food and cooking, but also got them thinking about where ingredients come from and the quality work that goes into their production. This experience is also a chance to meet real-life farmers, which is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between the field and the plate. “I’m sure this ‘Lessons at 10’ event will leave a lasting impact on these children, and we hope to inspire them to appreciate the importance of British produce.” Ms Murty said: “It was wonderful to welcome pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School to Downing Street today for a special farming and food Lessons at 10 event. “It’s so important for children to connect with where our food comes from and experience great British produce. Thank you to everyone for coming and highlighting why we should back British farming.”

Country Land and Business Association President Mark Tufnell said:

ight to roam’ would be disastrous for farming, wildlife and the environment, as creating a ‘free for all’ would destroy crops and delicate habitats.

“The CLA warmly welcomes Labour’s reported position and will continue working closely with the party to define and support responsible access to the countryside. “The ‘right to roam’ campaign promotes ignoring Farming

public rights of way and open access land in favour of trespassing on private land. There are already over 140,000 miles of public rights of way in England and Wales alone, more than any other country of comparable size, and enough to walk around the Earth almost six times. “Many farmers also give unofficial, permissive access of their own volition, and it is vital that landowners and walkers work together in the spirit of mutual respect and co-operation.”

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Farmers' diversification income rises, NFU Mutual survey reveals

K farmers' income from diversification enterprises has risen to 13% of turnover in 2023, new research from NFU Mutual reveals.

The 1% rise from 2022's survey shows a continuing trend of farmers diversifying outside traditional agricultural activities to secure extra income as EU legacy Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) support is phased out. Across the UK, the leading rural insurer's annual diversification survey shows that 34% of farmers now run a diversified business, up 6% since 2018. English farmers have the highest proportion of diversification enterprises at 41%, followed by 38% of Welsh farmers and 27% of Scottish farmers. Only 15% of Northern Ireland farmers surveyed run diversification scheme. Renewable energy is the most popular diversification, with 6% of UK farmers operating schemes such as solar power, wind turbines or anaerobic digesters. Property letting and providing holiday accommodation come in joint second place at 5% each, followed by livery/equestrian businesses and caravan/camping, (both 4%) and farm shops at 3%. The survey also found the number of existing farms undertaking agricultural contracting was up 7% to 22%, with farmers looking to capitalise on their machinery and equipment. The impact of higher interest rates and the cost of living crisis was reflected in a three-fold jump in the percentage of farmers already running diversifications who expected the income they produced would fall over the next five years. The tough economic climate may also be responsible for a slight fall in the percentage of farmers considering a diversification scheme – down 1% to 15%.

"However, higher interest rates, rising prices and labour shortages make it more important than ever for farmers to cost any planned scheme in minute detail before taking the plunge and going ahead. "Given the challenges facing businesses in every sector, caution is prudent in the current economic climate. To help farmers gauge the feasibility of their ideas – whether it's for luxury glamping, an ice cream business, or letting out buildings for commercial or domestic use, we have a developed a Diversification Hub with a wealth of information. "It's important to recognise that diversification isn't for every farm. If you haven't got a suitable site, finance and the resource to run another business alongside your farm it may well not be for you. I know a good number of farmers who have looked at all the options to boost their farm incomes and have taken the view that their best option is to put all their energy and investing into developing farming activities. "Diversification is now essential to keep a decent income flowing into their business with high input costs seriously affecting profitability in every sector of agriculture and horticulture. "Today farm diversification is a sophisticated sector of the rural economy, providing significant income and employment opportunities in the countryside. It also gives the public the opportunity to visit the heart of our spectacular countryside and enjoy our excellent food straight from the growers." He added that it was vital for farmers to seek expert advice on the inheritance tax implications of running a diversification scheme. For more information including case studies on successful diversification schemes and advice on insurance and risk management visit NFU Mutual's new diversification hub at: nfumutual.co.uk/ farmingdiversification NFU Mutual Diversification Checklist: •

However, many farmers remain confident in the sustainability of their diversifications, with 37% (the same percentage as in 2022) expecting returns to increase over the next five years. Chris Walsh, NFU Mutual Farm Specialist, said: "For many farmers supplementing the farming income is essential to ensure long-term sustainability – so we're very pleased to see that well over a third of farmers running diversified businesses expect their returns to increase. "Farmers are putting great businesses in place which will help protect the long-term future of their farms. Many are also providing jobs, both for members of farming families and for local people as well, enabling the public to enjoy new aspects of our fantastic countryside – a win-win.

• • • • • •

"There are some fantastic success stories out there, and we've showcased a range in our Diversification Hub to give other farmers ideas of what they could do on their land.

•

Evaluate whether you have the skills, resources and commitment to make diversification work for you Thoroughly review your existing farm business and identifying your strengths and areas where you could add value to your existing model Make a full and frank assessment of your assets – including people, land, location and buildings Thoroughly research the market, local demand, and existing competition for your proposed diversification Work closely with planners and highway authorities to avoid problems when your plans are advanced Cost out plans in detail and include contingency funds to help absorb future price and interest rate increases Research the likely availability of local workers – often a challenge for hospitality or retail diversifications in remote locations Consider health and safety issues at planning stage to avoid having to make expensive changes later on Farming

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Farming Minister urges industry workers to test TIAH's online service

arming Minister Mark Spencer has thrown his weight behind The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture's (TIAH) campaign to encourage industry workers to test its new online skills and careers service.

The service offers personalised support for everyone working in farming and growing, whatever their sector or experience level. Real user feedback is allowing TIAH to fine-tune it prior to its formal launch next January. Minister Spencer said: "The Institute has recently launched a test version of its online support platform and I encourage each of you to actively engage with it and share your views. Your feedback will play a big role in its future development, making sure it is aligned with the evolving needs of the farming and growing community." Among the wide range of features on offer, the online service can help users improve and demonstrate their professional skills and knowledge. They can assess their current skills, identify knowledge gaps, receive tailored training recommendations and record their

learning and development, all in their own online hub. TIAH's Chief Executive, Stephen Jacob, said: "It's vital our online service meets the needs of everyone working in farming and growing so we'd love as many people as possible to get involved in helping us test it before our full launch next January. It's a great opportunity to get free access to skills and careers support while also helping us finetune the service. "We're hugely grateful for the invaluable tester input we have received so far. We have acted on the feedback, such as by adding an interactive UK map showing training providers and developing a free, online short course to help managers to develop their staff retention skills, worth up to 20 CPD points. I'd urge people to try it out and see what it can do." Anyone signing up to the online service before the end of October deadline will be invited to join TIAH's upcoming 'business excellence' webinar series and receive exclusive access to related content, such as downloadable skills guides. To sign up visit www.tiah. org

NFU's Harvest Thali reaches over 100,000 students

FU Education has celebrated harvest by reaching over 100,000 students with its new live lesson: Harvest Thali.

This year, students learnt how all the key ingredients of a thali are grown and produced in the UK. They then had the opportunity to use these ingredients and cook alongside Herefordshire based chef Rayeesa Asghar-Sandys to celebrate British produce and the end of harvest. Key Stage 1 children made a delicious Palak Paneer dish, learning how to grow onions, spinach and coriander. They also learnt about where the milk for paneer cheese comes from for the dish, meeting the robotic milkers on farmer Elaine's dairy farm. Key Stage 2 students learnt how to make a tasty tandoori chicken roti, following where chapati flour comes from and virtually visited one of the UK's remaining working watermills. A butcher also taught them how to safely prepare chicken and they visited a garlic farmer on the Isle of Wight. NFU President Minette Batters said: "We're in our fourth year of live lessons celebrating harvest and I'm so proud of the huge number of schools and children Farming

we've been able to reach. "This year's focus on the delicious ingredients for a thali is a brilliant way to make agriculture a more diverse space where everyone feels welcome, all while giving students insights into where their food comes from and inspiring them to think about a career in food and farming." Lenia Greenaway Head Teacher at St Peter's C of E Infant School, in Tandridge said: "We've done Harvest Live a couple of times and it's a brilliant event - the children think it's absolutely fantastic. There is always a real buzz around the classroom when this takes place and the whole school gets involved. "It's a great way of teaching children about where their food comes from and that it doesn't just come from the supermarket. This gives them that reference point. It is always a great way of helping children to learn a bit more about another culture. We are a church school and we already teach the children a little bit about different faiths and this is a good way of bringing that to life."

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Don’t get caught under-insured by high-value top fruit harvest eminder to review sums insured under business interruption policies while crops in store Growers are being reminded to review farm insurance policies amid a much-improved crop for top fruit this season, alongside an expected increase in value.

Acres Insurance Brokers is advising farmers to check their policies, and review sums insured under crop business interruption insurance, to ensure total crop value is correctly insured. “We appreciate that as a standard, top fruit growers are proactive in reviewing their insurance policies when crops go into storage,” explains Rollo Parsons, director at Acres Insurance Brokers. “Nevertheless, as we see a much better crop for top fruit this year, we will inevitably see a higher value at risk in storage,” he adds. According to Mr Parsons, it should be prudent

to review policies to reflect current pricing trends, considering any potential spikes. “We have seen at least one retailer being more generous than other buyers, and we can expect others to follow suit, so it really is worth running your eye over your business interruption policies for your store crops,” he says. As an independent broker geared towards supporting the agricultural, horticultural and fresh produce sectors, Acres Insurance Brokers can advise on full farm policies, undertake policy reviews and adjust and add to business interruption insurance cover. From both the head office in Northamptonshire and its Kent office, covering the southern counties, Acres has extensive knowledge and background within the fruit growing industry, as well as wider horticulture and viticulture experience. Rollo Parsons, Kevin Hogben and Phil Cornish will be manning the Acres Insurance Brokers stand at this year's National Fruit Show at the Kent Showground, 1-2 November. Meet the team on stand to discuss your requirements, or visit www. acresinsurance.co.uk for more details. Farming

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NFU calls for swift action following HS2 cancellation

he NFU has called for greater clarity and swifter support for farmers and growers surrounding the return of land that had been compulsory purchased ahead of the second phase of HS2.

infrastructure development, but many have been left with more uncertainty and delay after part of HS2 project was cancelled.

In a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport Mark Harper, sent by NFU Vice President David Exwood, he highlighted the urgent need for government to develop a transparent policy to enable the sale back of land taken from farmers and that former landowners are given the first refusal to buy back that land.

“The NFU is urging the Department for Transport to accelerate the process of returning land to former landowners as swiftly as possible. The longer the delay in getting this process up and running, the greater the chance of issues arising which will make it more difficult to return land in an efficient and satisfactory way. “To provide clarity and certainty to affected parties, the NFU calls for the Department for Transport to lift safeguarding measures on land taken for Phase 2a in the coming weeks and no later than next year for Phase 2b, as stated in the government’s latest paper

Mr Exwood said: “As farmers, we recognise the importance of Farming

“Farmers and growers must have a fair and swift resolution when it comes to land compensation and restoration.

‘Network North: transforming British transport’. “We must have a transparent process that allows former landowners the first refusal to repurchase land taken under compulsory purchase. It is important that DFT communicates with landowners affected as soon as possible to start to understand the many different scenarios that landowners find themselves in, with many issues that will need to be addressed. This will help to lead to a fair and equitable outcome for all parties involved. “The current level of uncertainty surrounding the HS2 project is unsettling for many members and the broader community, and it’s essential that the many farm businesses already so badly disrupted by this project can start to rebuild their businesses and get back to doing what they do best – producing climate-friendly and nutritious food for the country.”

| News

Motivations and practices behind reduced food waste ith around one-third of all food produced lost or thrown away, food waste is a big problem worldwide – including wasting the water, labour and energy used to produce it.

A study, led by Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), investigated what motivates households to reduce or avoid food waste and what practices people can use to achieve this goal. Based on survey responses from 402 UK households, researchers looked at what drives people to reduce food waste and categorised the responses into three groups: saving money and time; caring about the environment; and avoiding feelings of guilt and regret associated with wasting food. Environmental consideration was the most common motivation with 41.3 per cent of households listing it as the sole motivation and 21.9 per cent listing it in combination with emotion. Only 7.9 per cent of the households were solely motivated by emotion and 2.5 per cent by savings. Researchers also classified household food waste management practices into three main actions: planning - making shopping lists and meal plans; inspecting - checking what is already in the fridge and cupboards before buying more groceries; and proactive actions not making impulsive food purchases, considering portion sizes when cooking, cooking only the amount needed and using leftovers wisely. A quarter (25.6 per cent) of households inspected food as the sole management practice, while a similar proportion (26.4 per cent) did not use any management practices. Only 15.2 per cent combined planning with inspecting and 8.5 per cent applied all management

practices. Additionally, the households were asked to assess their typical weekly food waste percentages, their food waste (reduction or lack of) over the past two years and whether they wanted to reduce their food waste in the future. Finally, the researchers examined how elements of motivations and food management practices work together to enhance their combined impact and investigated how different households, based on specific characteristics, are motivated to reduce food waste. Households that plan more and are proactive in managing food mostly have lower food waste. However, households that feel their previous efforts to reduce food waste over a longer period did not have an impact are less inclined to engage in planning and proactive behaviours. Older food shoppers tend to be better at planning and inspection than younger adults and households that spend a larger part of their monthly income on food are more likely to want to reduce food waste. Lead researcher Toritseju Begho said: "Studies like this are important

because they provide real-world evidence that can help us encourage households to prevent food waste. "Households can gain new perspectives on their motivations and recognise the significance of aligning these motivations with practical and efficient management practices. "This information is also valuable for policymakers and stakeholders informing the aspects to focus on in the fight against food waste. For example, campaigns that educate households about how food waste harms the environment would resonate more effectively with the public. Younger adults might benefit from programmes aimed at enhancing their planning and proactive behaviours. "Food manufacturers and retailers can also use these insights to produce packaged food in portions that help households minimise waste." The study was published in Cleaner and Responsible Consumption. Farming

| News

Golden Hooves expands regenerative cheese range with launch of Vintage Cheddar ritish farmer-owned dairy cooperative, First Milk has announced the launch of Golden Hooves Vintage Cheddar, adding a more rugged and intense cheddar to its regenerative cheese range.

Made to the same award-winning recipe as Golden Hooves Mature Cheddar, using fully traceable regeneratively farmed milk, the Vintage Cheddar is then aged for 18 to 24 months by the co-op's highly experienced cheese graders. This has resulted in a firmbodied, complex and well-balanced cheddar with strong savoury and caramel notes, as well as a distinctive crumble and satisfying lactate crystals throughout. Vintage Cheddar will join the Golden Hooves range to help wave the flag for First Milk's 700 farms across the UK, which are united by a shared commitment to healthy soil, healthy cows and healthy people. Working together in a collective drive to make dairy farming part of the solution and leave the world in a better place, the co-op's members adapt robust regenerative methods to best suit the individual characteristics of their own farms, supported by a cycle of improvements, measurement and review to ensure that continual progress is made. Each intervention supports at least one of First Milk's five regenerative farming principles, which include livestock integration, minimising soil disturbance, protecting the soil surface, encouraging plant diversity and maintaining living roots. With the help of grazing cows to work the land with their magic hooves, these measures are known to remove carbon from the atmosphere by sequestering it into the soil. Golden Hooves Vintage Cheddar is available for retail in pre-packed 200g wedges via Longman's, and for food service via Castell Howell. Stockists can request pricing information by emailing info@goldenhooves. co.uk Farming

| News

NFU calls for bTB policy to be based on scientific evidence T

he NFU has today met with Rt Hon Lord Benyon, Minister of State for Defra, to stress the need for the government’s continued bovine TB (bTB) eradication strategy to be based on sound scientific evidence.

that shows a significant reduction of bTB in cattle. The recent Birch paper shows further evidence that bTB in herds can be reduced by more than 50% in areas where there has been four years of culling. This is a strategy that is working which is why we were so concerned to hear reports that Shadow Farming

led and successful strategy that shows wildlife control is working to significantly reduce bTB in cattle.

Minister Daniel Zeichner says a Labour government will not include culling within its strategy to make England bTB free.

successful in the field. But we’re not there yet and while we wait, we mustn’t become complacent with this disease. We must keep all of the tools that have been proven to work available.

“Cattle vaccination trials are underway, and a workable vaccine for cattle would be a significant tool to have as part of a range of measures to control bTB, if proved

The call comes a month after a new scientific paper demonstrated the effectiveness of including badger culling as part of a holistic strategy to help eradicate bTB from England1. The Birch Review2 shows further evidence that bTB in herds can be reduced by 56% in areas where there has been four years of culling and follows the independent Godfray review3 recommending wildlife control as an important part of the current TB eradication strategy. NFU Deputy President Tom Bradshaw said: “I’d like to thank the Minister for meeting with us to hear how bTB continues to have a huge and devastating impact on thousands of farming families. The emotional, mental, and financial strain caused by this terrible disease is enormous. “The current strategy, which includes wildlife control, is based on scientific research

“Bovine TB should not be a political issue; it is a disease that affects the lives of farming families and their cattle herds on a day-to-day basis. We have a joint ambition with government to be bTB free in England by 2038, and we must keep the policies in place to combat this disease, following the current science-

“We will continue to work with all political parties to ensure the importance of this scientific evidence is understood, to enable a future we all want; a country with a TB free status.”

Farming

| Arable

Don’t forget herbicide applications in new clover leys

ith around 50% of all newly sown leys in the UK now thought to contain clover, growers are being reminded that a key tool for the successful establishment of clover leys is available once more Simon Francis, commercial technical manager at FMC, explains an increasing number of farmers

are now wanting to establish nitrogen-fixing clover leys as a result of rising fertiliser costs, but weeds can put significant pressure on these leys.

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“Annual weeds like chickweed are incredibly competitive and can smother grass leys, particularly those containing clover, which can make it difficult for the crop to establish in its first year,” he says. “Therefore, it’s important for growers to control those weeds that compete strongly with establishing clover leys with an herbicide that’s ‘clover-safe’. “Triad SX is one example of such an herbicide and comes as a granular product, formulated with SX ® technology, which makes it easy to use and allows a reduced wash out of the spray tank compared to the previous tablet formulation. “With an application period between 1st March and 31st October, if growers need to make their grassland herbicide application this autumn, it’s important they get them applied soon. “As with all clover ‘safe’ products, it’s important to check the growth stage of clover in the sward following application, so please speak to your agronomist and read the label for information on how to use Triad SX safely and effectively. “This will help growers to effectively control a range of problematic annual weeds, allowing them to get the grass off to a good start and helping strong sward development to suppress further weed growth,” he says. To find out more about Triad SX speak to your agronomist or visit https://fmc-agro.co.uk/ herbicides/triad-sx

| Arable

Don’t overlook boron in your OSR crop this autumn

ith a challenging autumn for oilseed rape (OSR) establishment so far, looking after and maintaining the momentum of crops that have made it through becomes increasingly important. To establish a robust OSR crop ahead of winter and the inevitable flea beetle attack, crop nutrition expert urges growers to think about foliar nutrition, in particular boron.

Chris Bond, product manager for crop nutrition and plant health at FMC, explains foliar nutrition could be key to growers establishing robust and large OSR plants to battle pests and the elements. “Larger OSR plants are much more likely to withstand the adult grazing and larval phase of flea beetle attack and will be more robust when it comes to freezing temperatures,” he says. FMC carries out tissue testing across the country on a yearly basis to see trends in crop deficiencies. For the past three years the company has been monitoring OSR crops and has identified a trend in increasing boron deficiency.

tested were deficient, and this year it’s jumped to 42%,” says Mr Bond. He explains that the micronutrient, boron, is particularly important after the four-leaf stage as it influences crop growth processes and builds frost resilience over winter by strengthening cell walls. “Boron also has a part to play in flowering,” explains Mr Bond. “Although flowering is quite a way off, the OSR starts to develop florets at the base of the plant as early as the autumn. So, making sure the plant has enough boron to influence this is important as it ultimately could impact yield.” Mr Bond recommends an application of boron in a mix with other micronutrients to help aid Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) and give the crop a boost this autumn. “Bo-La is a mixture of boron and

molybdenum, which can address boron deficiencies but also help boost NUE as in order to take up nitrogen, molybdenum is needed,” he says. “If you’re looking for a ‘multivitamin’ for your OSR crop, Stoker is a good choice. It contains boron and molybdenum but also manganese and magnesium, which support photosynthesis, and sulphur which is another important element for OSR as it has high demand for it. “These products can be applied with other crop protection products, such as autumn fungicides or grass weed programs,” adds Mr Bond. OSR crops come under heavy fire in the autumn and winter months, but by making a small investment in foliar nutrition, growers can give their crops a boost and help them emerge from the winter in a competitive state.

“Over the past three years we’ve seen boron deficiency creeping up. In 2021 26% of the crops we Farming

| Arable

Resilient wheats again perform well in challenging season inter wheat varieties with a track record of delivering consistent performance over different growing seasons have once again yielded well this harvest, despite the year’s challenging weather.

That is the message from Syngenta seeds marketing manager, Kathryn Hamlen, who says arable crops were subjected to multiple pressures during 2023 – including persistent rain during spring which fuelled a Septoria tritici epidemic, a hot and dry June, then a wet summer that caused a stop-start harvest. “Robust resistance to Septoria tritici may have helped certain varieties to better withstand the effects of the prolonged rainfall periods,” says Mrs Hamlen. “This could partly explain why the hard feed wheat Graham has again yielded well this year. With its Septoria tritici resistance rating of 6.7 on the AHDB 2023-24 Recommended List (RL), Graham has continued to perform up to its usual treated yield standard. “In addition, varieties which grow deeper roots may

have been better able to scavenge for moisture during the dry June. With its good Septoria tritici resistance rating of 6.4 on the AHDB RL, plus evidence emerging of its good rooting ability, this may explain why SY Insitor turned in particularly impressive yield results this harvest. “Choosing varieties that deliver dependable yield performance over different seasons is a key consideration to help arable farms remain resilient.” One grower who has once again had success with Graham during 2023 is David Bristow, farm manager for a 250 ha arable plus beef enterprise at WPD Holland and Sons, near Lincoln. With soils ranging from sandy to heavy clay, he says Graham as a first wheat averaged 10.1 t/ha this summer – meaning it met the farm’s target despite overcast skies meaning it also did not receive much sunlight. Graham also remained noticeably clean against Septoria tritici using the farm’s standard fungicide programme, Mr Bristow notes. “It was visibly cleaner early, especially when we had the wet spell in May. Graham is a steady wheat that does what it says,” he points out. After these positive results, he says the business is growing Graham again for harvest 2024, with roughly a third of the farm’s 85-90 ha of winter wheat earmarked for the variety. He says he also likes Graham’s early maturity, which spreads harvest workload versus other varieties to reduce weather window bottlenecks.

Farming

| Arable

The new Carrier XT Carrier XT has the ability to optimise the disc angles to its working depth. This creates a full cut-out at a shallower working depth or reduced soil flow at a deeper working depth. Both of these factors contribute to a lower diesel consumption.

Carrier XT can either be delivered as a trailed or mounted version. The working width is 4.25, 5.25 or 6.25m. All Carrier XT models can be equipped with a range of both single and double packer options.

Learn more at vaderstad.com Farming

| Arable

Agrovista Precision appoints new specialists to meet increasing demand

grovista has announced the appointment of two new precision farming specialists to help meet increasing demand from customers across the country.

Scot Mitchell and Victoria Kennerley-Bevan will cover Scotland and western England respectively, helping farmers to make informed precision farming decisions based on the collection and interpretation of clear data, backed up by expert agronomist knowledge.

enormous potential on UK farms.

“They will be valuable additions to the team and I look forward to working with them.” Agrovista has also recently appointed two full-time soil samplers, Paul Blackwood in the Borders and Matt Dobson in Yorkshire. Joel Ouellette has been appointed as a GIS data analyst. As well as its soil expertise, Agrovista Precision offers yield data analysis, variable rate seed mapping, variable rate nitrogen application and field variation mapping. “Following these appointments, we are confident we can cover our significant growth forecasts for the business over the next two to three years,” says Graeme. Scot Mitchell joined Agrovista in June and will be based in The Borders, looking after farmer customers across Scotland. He has worked on several farms, starting out with harvest work and tractor driving, before starting college aged 23 where he obtained a National Certificate in Agriculture.

Victoria Kennerley-Bevan Agrovista Precision manager Graeme Barrett, says: “We have seen a sharp increase in the number of farmers wanting to use our services and we expect this will increase further.” GPS soil mapping is in particular demand. “Many farmers are seeking to improve their soil knowledge and management, and there are also opportunities to secure new funding streams as various soil initiatives are introduced within the farming support schemes being rolled out across the UK,” says Graeme. “I am therefore very pleased to welcome Victoria and Scot to the team. Both come with excellent recommendations– they are committed to the precision farming philosophy and appreciate its Farming

He has since worked for a large East Lothian-based agricultural contractor before moving to Bielgrange, a 550ha mixed farm near Dunbar, where he worked for six years.

“Bielgrange really made a difference,” says Scot. “It’s a forward-thinking farm, which challenged my skill set, but I’ve always wanted to push boundaries. “That’s what attracted me to Agrovista,” he adds. “Precision farming and everything it involves is going to become the norm, driven by economic need, the switch to more sustainable ways of farming and securing scheme funding. “Everything is getting more technical, but costs going up – farmers want practical solutions that are cost effective. I’m really looking forward to helping them on that journey – we are all going to have to keep learning to stay ahead of the game.”

| Arable Victoria Kennerley-Bevan started at Agrovista in September, and will be covering the West and South West of England from her home in north Shropshire. She grew up on her father’s beef and dairy farm in the area. She has a degree in countryside management from Reaseheath College in Cheshire, and now lives on her husband’s family farm. For the past five years she also worked for a regional agricultural machinery firm managing the warranty department. “I then decided I wanted a new challenge, that wasn’t purely desk-based, something that would give me job satisfaction and qualification as well,” says Victoria. “I’ve been interested in the precision side of things for a while – I picked up some knowledge in my previous job, and I can relate it to the crops we grow on the farm – it all makes perfect sense.

ew soil management options within the UK’s farming support schemes are providing a significant uplift in demand for precision soil sampling services, says Agrovista Precision manager Graeme Barrett.

Farmers stand to make significant economic and productivity gains by using such techniques and acting on the resulting advice, he adds. Scotland’s Preparing for Sustainable Farming includes soil sampling and analysis among the funded options, backed by a £30/ha payment incentive. Graeme also expects a precision element for soils will soon be available under England’s Sustainable Farming Incentive and eventually in Wales’ Sustainable Farming Scheme. “Scotland’s PSF has an incentive of £30/ha for soil sampling, provided it includes phosphorus, pH and carbon/organic matter measurements, which we

Scot Mitchell “I’m really looking forward to working with growers and agronomists. We all think we know our fields and soils, but GPS imagery can provide so much detailed information, which, with the correct interpretation and advice, can really help growers even up and improve their crop yields and returns.”

offer in our standard package, along with magnesium and potassium,” says Graeme. “However, the £30 payment also covers an upgrade to our silver soil health analysis, which covers a full nutritional, physical and biological soil analysis on a field level, providing much more information. “Farmers also stand to make significant savings on fertiliser – our standard is £10-15/ha per year. As a result, some farmers are using those savings to access our gold test, which provides an additional detailed report on practical solutions. “It’s not surprising that more and more farmers are now going down the precision route. Even where they are not getting their soil testing paid for, it will help them secure their support payments, and we’re confident that the benefits of fertiliser savings and enhanced crop performance alone will outweigh the cost.” Farming

| Grain

All Your Grain Storage Needs Fulfilled by a British Manufacturer

hether you are looking for new storage from 1 to 20,000 tonnes or replacement silo accessories, Perry of Oakley, a British manufacturer, can supply it all.

Perrys are known for their bulk materials handling and drying machinery but they also can supply a full range of square bins, silos and silo accessories. At the smaller end of the scale the Perry square hopper bottom bins can store from 1 to 100 tonnes (based on wheat at 750kg/m3). The bins are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and can be manufactured with forklift channels. The Perry self-assembly square bins range from 1.2m to 4m in height. With capacities from 35 to 3,000 tonnes (based on wheat at 750kg/m³) the hopper bottom silos are in the middle of the range and are available with both 45 and 60 degree hoppers. Diameters are from 3m to 13m, with custom diameters available to suit existing bases.

Farming

At the top end of the capacity range are the flat bottom silos with a modular design, manufactured using high-grade steel protected by galvanising ensuring a long service life. Their capacities range from 30 to 20,000 tonnes based on wheat at 750kg/ m³ and range from 3m (30 tonnes storage) to 32m diameter (20,000 tonnes storage), with custom diameters available to suit existing bases. The full range of silo accessories include catwalks, aeration systems for flat bottom and hopper bottom silos, silo discharge auger systems, agricultural or commercial sweep augers, and several systems for monitoring the stored grain are also available. With Perrys providing the full range of bulk materials handling, drying and storage you can purchase a fully integrated plant or stand-alone machines to meet your needs. To discuss your next project or your individual machine needs please contact Perry of Oakley today on 01404 890300 or sales@perryofoakley. co.uk

| Grain

Grain Drying, Handling & Storage

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| Grain

Hemp North pioneers hemp growing in Northumberland and brings British-grown hemp seed products to UK market using postharvest equipment from McArthur Agriculture fter completing a final dissertation in 2019 on the feasibility of growing hemp as a break crop, for an MSc in Rural Business Management, Hugh Wrangham realised that on paper, hemp ticked all the boxes. He and his business partner, Alistair McLeod, decided to found Hemp North and give hemp growing a go.

After obtaining the necessary licences Hemp North, located in North Northumberland not far from the Scottish border, sowed its first hemp crop in 2021. The farm is approximately 600 ha of various soil types and grows predominantly winter cereals, OSR and field beans now in rotation with industrial hemp. “Our objective was to show that hemp is an environmentally friendly and viable diversification option for conventional family farms,” explained Wrangham. “Grown as a sustainable break-crop hemp delivers four times the CO2 sequestration compared with the same area of forestry, and delivers an additional revenue stream through the sale of British-grown highly nutritious ‘superfood’ hemp seed products.” Having made the decision to outsource the production of hemp seed oil, Wrangham looked at ways of dehulling the hemp on farm and considered several solutions that would deliver hemp hearts.

In addition, Wrangham needed to consider how the harvested hemp seed would be dried and cleaned before dehulling could take place. “To overcome the challenge of how to dry our hemp seeds quickly to preserve the quality, McArthur Agriculture supplied us with a Mecmar drier. They were really helpful and easy to communicate with as we discussed different drier options,” continued Wrangham. Wrangham and McLeod then visited McArthur Agriculture’s depot in Flixborough to discuss cleaning and dehulling options with director Scott McArthur. “Once Scott had shown us the JK Machinery range of robust, yet easy to operate, cost effective post-harvest equipment, including cleaning and dehulling solutions, we understood how

Farming

| Grain

empty hulls and whole hemp seeds. This mix is then passed back through JK Machinery’s VibroCompact sieve cleaner to remove and separate any whole hemp seeds which are collected and put back through the dehuller. After passing through the sieve cleaner the remaining material consists of hemp hearts with a small number of empty shells or hulls. This mix then goes over a JK Machinery JGC 03 Gravity Concentrator designed to separate material based on its specific gravity i.e. weight and density.

McArthur Agriculture’s knowledge combined with the JK Machinery range, enables farm diversification projects like ours, to get off the ground,” added Wrangham. On a relatively low budget and with a lack of knowledge of the necessary process but with ‘amazing’ help and advice from Scott McArthur, Hemp North designed a DIY dehulling facility. “Working with Scott, we kept the facility modular and relied on gravity feeds and good oldfashioned manual labour to transfer the hemp seed between different processing stages. This allowed us to trial the system, learn the methodology and constantly tweak the parameters to improve yields and efficiencies,” continued Wrangham. Importantly, this gave Hemp North the freedom to process to order and carefully control quality, whilst developing close relationships with its early customers. The post-harvest processing starts with the harvested hemp seeds being dried, if necessary, in the Mecmar drier. Once dried, the hemp seeds are cleaned and graded via JK Machinery’s JCC 05 VibroCompact vibratory sieve cleaner before going into store. As demand dictates the hemp seeds are taken from store and then passed through JK Machinery’s JHI 05 Impact Dehuller. The JHI 05 accelerates the grain which is thrown against the hard surface, the impact causes the grain to shed its outer shell or hull. McArthur Agriculture’s experience has shown that the JHI 05 Impact Dehuller is the best fit for dehulling hemp seeds. The material exiting the dehuller contains hemp hearts (sometimes referred to as kernels), the

Having gone through the gravity concentrator the hemp seed is cleaned leaving hemp hearts to be stored. “McArthur Agriculture’s expertise has been invaluable. Before we were entirely sure how the post-harvest processing would work, we took some hemp seed to McArthur Agriculture and Scott dehulled it for us as a trial using the JK Machinery. He pretty much taught us the process in one afternoon!” said Wrangham. This successful trial was key because it derisked North Hemp’s investment in the JK Machinery by reducing the guesswork around the processing. Wrangham and McLeod could see that North Hemp would be able to viably produce the hemp hearts which it needed. Despite the steep learning curve of the first year, and the time Hemp North spent perfecting the post-harvest process, it has quickly established contracts and sales. The company is rapidly building up its e-commerce site to handle direct sales to consumers, and is seeing growing demand in its wholesale business with online health food stores, local shops and zero-waste stores. “Now in year two we have begun to automate our dehulling facility. This enables us to increase output and produce dehulled hemp hearts at a volume which allows us to offer increasingly good value to our customers. “We are continuing to work with McArthur Agriculture so that we can take advantage of its knowledge and expertise in the supply of seed handling equipment. The McArthur team will work with us to deliver the capability we need to efficiently dry and grade harvested hemp, in larger quantities, on farm. This will mean we can grow more hemp!” concluded Wrangham. Farming

| British Lifestyle

The Future of Fashion

n an age where fast fashion is a growing concern and labels are working to become more sustainable, there is little discussion about the environmental and ethical impacts of leather, and how the animals, farmers, abattoirs, butchers, tanners and many others create a supply chain for this luxury product.

In Field, Fork, Fashion designer Alice V Robinson begins a ground-breaking journey into the origin story of leather and its intrinsic connection to food and farming. As a fashion student at the Royal College of Art, Alice started to question where leather came from and the story behind each hide. Despite being a byproduct of the meat industry, leather is universally acknowledged as a luxury material, from which desirable bags, shoes and clothing are made. But as Alice soon discovered, with a globalised supply chain, it is almost impossible to uncover the provenance and practices that have gone into producing even the most high-end products.

collection based on Bullock 374. Working with the leather, which was not standardized and pristine like the hides she had encountered before, but full of character and marks from Bullock 374’s life on the farm, Alice’s design decisions respected the whole animal, even incorporating the bones and horns used for buttons and clasps, and the meat, which was butchered and shared within her local community as well as served at a special event celebrating the V&A exhibit. Through this incredibly complex and labour-intensive process, Alice’s passion and commitment allowed her to see the bigger picture – connecting farm, food and fashion for the first time. Field, Fork, Fashion is a testament to the true meaning of provenance, value and beauty, and how this can be better reflected in our own decisions around the clothes we buy and the food, farming and fibre systems in which we all participate in. Alice was introduced to Sara Grady, who became interested in the leather industry while working for Glynwood, an organisation promoting regional food and regenerative farming, in the Hudson Valley, New York. Immediately realising that they had mutual interests. ‘When I saw Alice’s collection, I was compelled by how eloquently her design work commented on the problem,’ recalls Sara. They formed a partnership in 2020 to found Grady + Robinson, and now work to promote and produce

In an effort to trace the origins of the materials she was working with, Alice created a supply chain of her own for Collection 374, which would be unveiled at the Victoria & Albert Museum. She began the journey at the origins of all leather – the animal. This took her back to her childhood home in rural Shropshire, where she bought Bullock 374 from Charity Farm, and followed its journey from farm to abattoir, on to her local butchery, followed by the tannery and finally to her studio. Field, Fork, Fashion culminates with Alice’s own design practice as she creates a zero-waste Farming

| British Lifestyle We are in dire need of a circular economy with a clear vision to recreate how we view the fashion industry and how we use it so I asked Alice, ‘Should we consider that it’s time for a set of standards for regenerative farmers in order to encourage British brands to get on board with this concept and there being enough for demand, to avoid the risk of brands gas lighting? “In the book I worked with Malcolm Adams, he too has farmed with conservation at the heart of how he produces food and stewards his land and has never held any certifications. The 'over the farm gate' relationship you mention is exactly what I was

able to gain from him and is invaluable. I don't think certification is for everyone, for Malcolm it would have been burdensome and unnecessary as the market for his produce was built upon direct relationships.

what they are terming British Pasture Leather – leather traceable to regenerative British farms certified by the organisation Pasture for Life. Sourced directly from farms where the animals are pasture-fed in high welfare conditions, the hides are taken to a Bristol tannery, where they are transformed into leather with natural tannins derived from barks and leaves. They are then finished at Blenkinsop Leathers in Northamptonshire using natural oils or waxes.

Brands monopolising on the word 'regenerative' is a worry of mine for fashion. The benefits of the practices that you mention, as well as the value of a local, transparent food system is hard to quantify and using certifications only to do so is not adequately recognizing all regenerative farms such as yours. Work is being done by the Textile Exchange to help create frameworks for brands wanting to support regenerative farming practices. This isn't creating certifications but educational tools which can help inform brands on some of the nuances of farming practices and therefore what they should be looking for and supporting. Instagram @british.pasture.leather @alice. v.robinson www.alicevictoriarobinson.cargo.site Published by @chelseagreenbooks Out Now in all good book shops!

Written by Olivia Shave Instagram: @ecoewe Farming

| Potatoes & Root Crops

Farming

| Potatoes & Root Crops

Can potatoes be grown regeneratively on a commercial basis? – have your say at the Potato Event 2023 t the biannual Potato Event 2023 on the 22nd & 23rd November at the Yorkshire Event Centre, Emerald Research Ltd (ERL) will be tackling the question ‘Can potatoes be grown regeneratively on a commercial basis?’ Yes, no or is the reality somewhere in between?

A consortium of commercial and academic organisations have launched a three-year project, ‘Transformative Reduced Inputs in Potatoes’ (TRIP), funded by Innovate UK. ERL will be asking farmers, growers and industry experts to cast their vote on whether they think it is possible to grow potatoes regeneratively on a commercial basis with the three response choices:1) Yes – it is possible to commercially grow potatoes regeneratively. 2) There is a middle position for potatoes to be part of a ‘regenerative rotation’. 3) No – it is not possible to grow potatoes regenerative at a commercial level. During the course of the three-year TRIP field trials, ERL’s OptiYield soil analysis, nutrient recommendations and product formulations will be

used and evaluated against standard farming programmes and a number of different nitrogen and phosphate regimes. One aim of the project is to evaluate using alternative application methods and approaches to see if it is possible to reduce the total overall inputs consumed by the crop while still achieving a commercially saleable crop – aiding profitability and sustainability. The first full set of TRIP field trial results will be published at the event. This year’s trials tested a number of variable combinations :•

Base nutrition provided by FYM, green waste and a reduction in nitrogen of 50%

•

Fungicide or biological approach with either Maxim and Amistar or Consortium

•

Foliar nutrition applications

•

Additional foliar – Blight programme or Diamond

Visitors to the Potato Event can look in on stand 193 and talk to ERL about how they see the future of regenerative potato production, cast a vote and see TRIP’s first year’s trial results. Farming

| Potatoes & Root Crops

Tong adds new compact option to

urther to strong sales and worldwide demand for Tong’s industry leading FieldLoad PRO, the company’s fieldloading machine is now available in a compact 1800mm wide specification. The new model has been designed to suit vegetable growers and producers looking to create post-harvest efficiencies at lower throughputs than the company’s flagship machine.

“The FieldLoad PRO continues to be an very popular set-up for truly versatile and efficient postharvest handling,” says Richard Knighton, Sales Manager at Tong Engineering. “We have always referred to the machine as our on-farm and in-field powerhouse and it really has proved to be just Farming

that, with many customers processing in excess of 100 tons of crop per hour into boxes, bulkers and bulk storage. However, we work with vegetable producers of all sizes and not everyone needs such a high capacity machine; and this is where the new, narrower machine can

| Potatoes & Root Crops

o popular FieldLoad PRO machine inspection cabin, for ultimate automation and sorting efficiency. “We pride ourselves on continuously developing our equipment to ensure the most suitable solutions for growers large and small in the UK and worldwide,” added Charlie Rich, Sales Director at Tong Engineering. “The new compact model of the FieldLoad PRO is one of the latest examples of this, where we have introduced a new compact and affordable machine which brings all the efficiencies of the flagship FieldLoad PRO to even more vegetable growers.”

ensure all the same efficiencies to suit lower throughput requirements.” Suitable for use on a wide range of root crops including potatoes, carrots, onions and more, the new, more compact FieldLoad PRO features all the same options as the flagship machine but simply in a narrower format. The machine features a heavy duty reception hopper feeding a choice of crop cleaning units including Tong’s renowned EasyClean separator available with Auto-Touch HMI controls, as well as the company’s high-speed PU coil cleaning system and star cleaning units. Custom-built to suit grower’s exact specification, the new FieldLoad PRO model will feature the standard 4-man inspection cabin and a 1300mm wide fully foldable cart elevator. A super-silent onboard generator provides power efficiency for in-field operation, which can be bypassed for mains power when operating on-farm. Like the larger model, the new compact model can be specified with the latest optical sorting equipment as an alternative to the standard Farming

| Potatoes | Potatoes & Root Crops

Four harvests on – a storage success story

Biox-M is the only 100% natural and sustainable sprout control for potatoes.

Attention to detail

s growers get stuck into what looks like being a challenging 2023 harvest, with heavy rain affecting parts of the country, it is worth looking back at potato storage since the removal of CIPC as the principal sprout suppression tool for potato growers. This will be the fourth harvest without CIPC, and the world has moved on. New products have come to market in the last two seasons to join Biox-M and ethylene, and the concerns of many growers, packers and processors have broadly been allayed. There is life after CIPC.

However, all of the ‘new’ suppressants (Biox-M has been in market for 11 years and is not strictly ‘new’) have set storekeepers new challenges. All are volatile and seek to escape from stores – leaks and other exit routes had to be closed.

All can condense or coalesce if not fogged and circulated in store carefully – fans and fan controls have been upgraded; additional entry ports added. Stores designed to get the best from CIPC have been reconfigured. And management of crops treated with new and volatile products which are very much not CIPC, has seen a steep learning curve on behalf of storekeepers. The industry has adapted to a new world of sprout control with considerable success, albeit with some older, less adaptable/suitable stores quietly being retired. Farming has always been about the attention to detail required to get the best from crops and livestock. Even with a plethora of labour saving and information gathering devices, there is still nothing quite as good as the human eye at spotting the fine detail and making the correct decision on the day. This has proved to be

particularly true of the new world of potato storage chemistry.

Every store is different and should be managed accordingly. It is always good practice to keep records, as detailed as possible, of crop and store condition during the storage season, but most importantly in the lead up and immediately following each treatment. A good set of records of store and crop temperatures, of fan settings and entry ports, of the date(s) when the store is re-opened and refrigeration or ambient air exchange switched back on, allows the storekeeper to record and assess the factors that deliver the best efficacy, and to work towards extended treatment intervals, as well as to avoid unintended problems. Biox-M has been in market for more than a decade, and a great many growers have become familiar with the need for attention to detail.

•

Is a naturally occurring and truly sustainable product, in widespread use in the food industry,

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Is approved for use on organic potato crops,

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Has no harvest interval or MRL beyond the one-day mandatory withholding period after treatment,

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Has flexibility of timing of application,

•

Results in minimal weight loss in store,

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Does not leave persistent residues in the fabric of stores and boxes used for storage,

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And is therefore suitable for use in stores, which may subsequently be used for the storage of other crops or seed potatoes,

•

Is effective at higher storage temperatures, reducing the risk of acrylamide development when crop is processed,

•

Sequesters carbon during growth, removing 1t of CO2 for every 1,000t of potatoes treated,

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And should be a component of the sustainability plan for every farm and every customer; effectively carbon neutral. Farming

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Natural. Effective. Powerful. 100% Spearmint Oil sprout inhibitor for use on ware potatoes in store.

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| Potatoes & Root Crops

In-store potato sprout contro with 10% of the UK crop still T

he bulk of the UK potato crop has been harvested and stored in favourable conditions. However, doubts remain about the state of those crops still to be lifted following torrential rainfall.

“The growing season this year has been very variable, swinging between wet and hot conditions,” says Tim Kitson of Potato Solutions, an independent potato storage consultant. “However, the warm ambient weather most parts of the country have experienced in early autumn means that most crops have gone into store dry and in good condition. “The crop still in the field will pose the biggest challenge once it is lifted. Some areas have got on better than others, but I would estimate that 10% is still to be harvested.” Stores are being closely monitored for the first signs of a break in dormancy before the first inFarming

store sprout control treatments are applied. Tim is still determining how the crops will react now they are stored. “The seed crops from which this year’s crop originated were exposed to a lot of heat stress in the summer of 2022. I am unsure if this will influence the daughter crop. Generally, Fazor (maleic hydrazide) was applied in good conditions. We need to sit, wait and review. “The first application will tend to be Argos (orange oil) for shorter-term stores. If the crop is planned to be stored longer, we will probably start with DMN. The important thing is to remain flexible. “With the weather stopping harvest for a while, some customers are unloading stores they didn’t plan to. I had one store where we were preparing to apply Argos but had to cancel it at the last minute. The farmer needed to unload the store to meet demand because supplying freshly harvested crops is impossible right now,” adds Tim.

| Potatoes & Root Crops

ol commences in the field Since the loss of CIPC (chlorpropham), building a season-long sprout control programme has become much more complicated. Several alternatives are available, all of which have advantages in specific situations. Lincolnshire potato grower John Coggon just completed his potato harvest ahead of Storm Babet. John grows 200 acres of chipping potatoes for the local fish and chip market, of which approximately 150 acres go into storage. The area is split between Sagitta, Markies and Edison, with a small area of Babylon tried last season. “We have used Argos for the last two seasons,” says John. “We initially struggled in the first year because we were still getting used to applying it correctly. The store needs more space to circulate the fog than we were used to with CIPC.

because of the dry conditions when we applied it.” Due to his end market, John needs the flexibility to take potatoes from the store when he needs them. Up to 1000 tonnes tend to be held in long-term storage up until June. Four applications of Argos have been needed to control sprouting in this instance. Looking ahead to this winter, he plans to begin with an application of DMN in most stores but then use Argos for all follow-up treatments. The ability to access the store only 48 hours after application is critical. “Argos gives me flexibility. I do not have to keep the potatoes in store for a month after using it. I like that it is a natural chemical, and our application contractors have found it easy to use,” concludes John.

“We had no problems in the second year using Argos. However, our first application was earlier than expected; MH uptake was lower than desired Farming

| Shows

MJP SUPPLIES TO CELEBRATE 18 YEARS OF BIOSTIMULANT PROMOTION AT THE MIDLANDS MACHINERY SHOW Lincolnshire company will celebrate 18 years of promoting biostimulants to UK farmers at this year's Midlands Machinery Show (8 and 9 November, Newark Showground).

MJP Supplies, based near Spalding, has been using Algifol, a seaweedbased biostimulant, since 2005 and will be celebrating the milestone on stand 5 in JCH2 at this year's show. After using the biostimulant for two years and seeing the benefits to potatoes, sugar beet, wheat and vining peas first hand, Marcus Palmer, owner of MJP Supplies, secured the UK distribution rights from German company Neomed Pharma in 2007. "I don't really know where the time has gone!" says Marcus. "It has passed so quickly. It's very pleasing to be marking 18 years of promoting and selling Algifol to UK growers. I think the use of biostimulants, a bit like my milestone, is coming of age.

When used with a reduced amount of fertiliser, Algifol naturally improves the nitrogen use efficiency of the crop, producing a better yield and reducing the use of costly fertilisers. "Things were very different when I started promoting Algifol," Marcus continues. "Back in 2005, many people were sceptical, and it was a hard sell. Things have definitely changed, and this year and last have been exceptionally good for us!" Derived from brown algae, which is dried and refined, Algifol is an entirely natural liquid boasting a wealth of trace elements, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, polyuronides and growth-regulating plant hormones.

"Growers are facing very high fertiliser prices and looking at ways of reducing their costs. Over the last few years, there has been increased interest in using natural products to help improve crop establishment, disease resistance and overall quality and yields. Both of these trends have pushed biostimulants into the limelight."

Marcus and the growers who apply Algifol have enjoyed numerous benefits, from improved crop establishment, greater resistance to extreme weather conditions like drought and heavy rain, and increased yields.

Neomed Pharma says the biostimulant is a natural nitrogen source due to the high presence of amino acids and peptides. This makes Algifol ideal for combined use with reduced amounts of N fertiliser.

For more information about Algifol and MJP Supplies' other product ranges, visit www. mjpsupplies.co.uk, call 07702 293 727 or email marcus@mjpsupplies.co.uk

Farming

As well as distributing Algifol, Mr Palmer also represents Enduramaxx tanks and sells a wide variety of sprayers, pressure washers and protective clothing, all of which will be promoted at the Midlands Machinery Show next month.

| Shows

SALTEX Exhibitors Ready With One Week Until Showtime E xhibitors are getting ready with just one week to go until SALTEX.

Visitors are guaranteed that a trip to the exhibition in Birmingham will introduce them to all the new additions and advancements in the industry including the latest cutting-edge electric machinery launches from leading suppliers.

Here’s a snapshot of what visitors can expect from some of the 400 brands in three halls, across two days, at one location. For Kubota, SALTEX will provide the European launch platform for the next addition to its eco-friendly line-up, tightly under wraps until the show. And from EGO Power Plus, an exclusive viewing of its new-look PRO X range, set to launch in 2024, featuring what it classifies as a ‘trailblazing battery’ with charging technology specifically designed for professional and local authorities. Reesink UK has chosen SALTEX to debut the industry’s first all-electric outfront rotary mower from Toro. The battery-powered Groundsmaster e3200 is joined by the Toro Workman MDX Lithium, also launching at the show. Alastair Rowell, managing director of Reesink UK, says: “We’re delighted to introduce the latest electric technology to groundscare at SALTEX. Battery power is an integral part of the industry’s future and these are two crucial launches from Toro for the market.”

Kress will also be showcasing its new line of commercial-grade outdoor power equipment and revolutionary commercial 8-minute Cybersystem battery platform engineered to have the fastest re-charge of any commercial battery system. While Infinicut and its technical team will be on hand to demonstrate the newest additions to its innovative InfiniApp, including its new fleet management feature. New machinery isn’t the only thing visitors can expect a preview of at SALTEX this year. Green Best will be unveiling new turf management products with its latest organo-mineral fertilisers developed for its Velvit range.

Concluding Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, organisers of SALTEX, says: “Getting up close and personal with the latest innovations on the market from our exhibitors is one of the many reasons visitors come to SALTEX year on year. Hearing from industry-leading experts about the latest developments in our Learning LIVE programme, receiving guidance on funding from the National Governing Bodies in attendance, or networking with some of the greatest in the business, are just a few of the others." There are plenty more exhibitors both new and returning to SALTEX to showcase the latest additions and advancements in their line-ups. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see them, register now for Europe’s largest and leading sports turf, amenities, and landscaping trade exhibition at Birmingham NEC on 1-2 November 2023 at: https://bit.ly/456l0dA

Farming

| Shows

Jam-packed machinery demos at Midlands Machinery Show armers and landowners interested in the latest kit on the machinery circuit should not miss this year's Midlands Machinery Show on 8-9 November, featuring demonstrations from some leading manufacturers.

farming, the new Horizon DSX drill may be the ideal solution,” says Bob Skinner, dealer principal at Russells’ Harby Depot. “Visitors can see a presentation in the demonstra “on ring about how it can help those on their regenerative farming journey.”

Taking place on both days, the jam-packed table is a firm favorite, with live demonstrations across two arenas.

Those interested in large kit will be satisfied with what's on offer in the telehandler and wheeled loader demo ring. This features the latest wheeled loaders and telehandlers on the market, including diesel and electric versions. Each demo will highlight the machines' living, handling, and maneuverability to simulate a range of farming

In the technology demo ring, taking to the skies with the latest intelligent systems in crop management is Drone Ag, with Skippy Scout showcasing how farmers can gather data from their fields in minutes and produce detailed crop reports using an off-the-shelf drone. “We look forward to visitors joining us for a live demonstration of our automated crop scouting platform, Skippy Scout,” says Tom Bonner, brand manager at Drone Ag. “They can discover how this system can not only enhance “Their production but also lead to significant production and cost savings.” Farm safety will also be featured, with an innovative new bale strapping system from Richard Western. Visitors will see how the 'Safe Lock' Strapping System revolutionizes how bales are secured, providing enhanced safety and efficiency. But that's not all; the system also has the option for top straps, allowing bales to be secured from the top, providing an extra layer of stability and peace of mind. Russells will also showcase a new flagship model in the New Holland T7 Long Wheelbase range, launched earlier this year. The T7.300 with PLM Intelligence is the most powerful and compact tractor in its power bracket. It has 300hp for PTO and haulage jobs while maintaining the wheelbase and dimensions of the current T7 range, delivering ultramate performance density. It also offers superior operator comfort with the Horizon Ultra cab, the quietest on the market and with the new AC cab suspension. Russells also looks forward to presenting the Horizon DSX no-vil seed drill. This has been designed and developed to overcome the challenges of seeding with a no-Ᏸll disc drill to enable accurate seed placement in the perfect growing environment with minimal soil disturbance. “For farmers looking to the future with regenerative Farming

| Shows systems. Chandlers Farm Equipment, one of the largest AGCO dealers in the UK, will bring along two telehandlers from Fendt and Massey Ferguson. “We are looking forward to demonstrate the innovative new Fendt Cargo T740 telehandler, with its unique living cab, which dramatically improves loading visibility and safety when loading materials into a lorry or container,” says managing director, Gavin Pell. "We'll also have the robust and underrated Massey Ferguson TH.8043 telehandler – which has a very capable 8m reach, with 4.3 tonnes of liquid capacity. Both machines will be put through their paces in the demo arena, handling a range of materials , with the product specialists from Fendt and MF on hand to provide commentary and further information on the products, and to answer customer questions during the displays.” Sharmans Agricultural will be demonstrating the awesome capabilities of JCB Agriculture’s telehandler and telescopic wheeled loader range,

offering live commentary on the features and applications for both arable and livestock farms. Show organizer Elizabeth Halsall says the technology on show is central to driving efficient and profitable farm businesses. "Technology and machinery are constantly developing, allowing farmers to make more informed decisions about how land is managed and the bits of kit needed to manage that land. “This year’s demonstrations offer a mix of technology and machinery advancements supporting commercial farms of all sizes.” •

Registration and parking are free but preregistration is required for the Midlands Machinery Show, which runs from 8-9 November at the Newark Showground. NRoSO and BASIS points are also available for various ends. Register your event at: midlandsmachineryshow.ukutsrv.co.uk/ckets/ visitor

Farming

| Shows

MASTENBROEK'S MAGNIFICENT SEVEN AT THE MIDLANDS MACHINERY SHOW

he UK's leading manufacturer of agricultural drainage trenchers will return to the Midlands Machinery Show for the seventh consecutive year in November on the back of an impressive 12 months of trading.

Mastenbroek, which has been involved in agricultural drainage since 1977, has enjoyed strong demand on the back of utility projects since it attended last year`s show. Across the UK, a considerable amount of renewable electric cables and water pipelines are being installed across valuable farmland, necessitating investment in land drainage. Overseas Mastenbroek is supplying their Bulldog trencher for installing the electric cables. The company has also seen sales of its Magic Eye product double in the last year as contractors seek to ensure they reduce waste wherever possible. Developed in response to customer requests for an automated way of minimising wastage and launched in January 2022, the Magic Eye package combines a radar sensor with a software application to control the amount of gravel or sand dispensed by the hopper when backfilling.

ensuring the optimum amount of gravel is dispensed. As well as the Magic Eye, Mastenbroek's commercial director, Christopher Pett, says the company has benefitted from promoting land forming and land levelling. "Our drainage trenchers have been the machine of choice for several of the large agricultural drainage contractors for some time, and we've seen repeat business from them in the last year, which is very pleasing. We're also grateful to those who bought refurbished machines from us in the last 12 months," he says. "The Magic Eye has been another successful area for us alongside export sales to the United States and Europe. "We're looking forward to making our seventh appearance at next month's Midlands Machinery Show in what has been a magnificent year for us." As well as agricultural drainage machinery, Mastenbroek operates an environmental division, which will also be represented on Stand 10 in Hall JCH2. Mastenbroek's environmental team works with Dutch manufacturers Herder and Conver to offer environmentally and ecologically sound solutions to keeping watercourses clear and ensuring a continuous flow rate of water to pumps.

Available as an optional extra on Mastenbroek's trenchers and retrofittable to any machine with a suitable hydraulic variable height gravel hopper, the Magic Eye regulates itself to the ground level, Farming

For further information about Mastenbroek, please visit them at the Midlands Machinery Show or www.mastenbroek.com

| Shows

PACE MECHANICAL HANDLING TO LAUNCH THE STELLA EVOLUTION AT THE MIDLANDS MACHINERY SHOW

he UK's leading designer and installer of automated packing lines will use this year's Midlands Machinery Show to launch a new scalable packing line for on-farm packing.

Designed to overcome labour shortages, PACE Mechanical Handling will introduce visitors to stand 1 in the John Crocker Hall 3 to its new Stella Evolution system. The Stella Evolution starts at £89,500 and features an Electra weigher capable of handling ten tonnes per hour; an In-bag Weigher designed to fill 10 to 25kg potato sacks; an auto sack placer and presenter, and a complete bag control system feeding a heavy-duty SMITSEN DS9C sewing head.

process by which a star changes over the course of time." O Palmer Ltd supplies Babylon chipping potatoes in 25kg sacks for use by fish and chip shops across the country. "The new line, which we started using in September, is the third time we've worked with PACE," says Olly. "Over the years, we have been really impressed with the speed, reliability and efficiency of PACE's lines and have only upgraded the line when the technology has moved on significantly. The latest line is the best yet. It is really well made, accurate and more than capable of running at 15 tonnes per hour. We don't have a large team here, so having the PACE Stella Evolution makes a real difference. My uncle,

As well as exceptional build quality and reliability, the Stellar Evolution line features one of PACE's latest innovations: a single bag clamp that automatically adjusts to the size of the bag being presented, removing the need for a second bag clamp and eliminating the change over time found on other systems. "Over the last eighteen months, we have seen a rise in enquiries from smaller growers and on-farm packers struggling to operate efficiently given the labour situation," says Nick Cesare, PACE's managing director. "We developed a new line for Olly Palmer, a potato packer in Suffolk, and he was so impressed with the performance, efficiency and price point that we've decided to offer it as a complete solution. The beauty of the Stella Evolution system is that it is scaleable, so we can increase or reduce its capacity and features to suit each grower's needs, hence its name which the

Steven Sizer, is also involved in potato packing and is using our old PACE line, which still has lots of life left in it!" In addition to being scaleable and customisable, the Stella Evolution system comes with a five-year warranty on parts and free online service management for the duration of ownership. For further information about the Stellar Evolution, visit PACE at the Midlands Machinery Show or www.robotpalletizing.co.uk Farming

| Mental Health

Farming

Farming can be tough.

RABI is always here for you

Call our free, confidential 24/7 helpline:

0800 1884444 Farming

lthough she came from a town, Julie Hill was drawn to animals and left home as a teenager to pursue her dreams with horses. Little could she have known that first step would lead to excellence in multiple linked domains and eventually public recognition of her talent, hard work and commitment. Equine communications and handling Julie’s first worked on a stud farm in East Anglia. It was here that she learnt to read equine communication and to manage youngstock mares and stallions. Understanding their instincts and speed of reactions added an extra layer to her existing empathetic approach gave her a powerful base for working with other animals.

Following numerous visits to America, Julie bred her own horses having developed an interest in quarter horses as well as in the natural method of horse training. The equine education provided a basis for the understanding other flight animals, notably sheep, but it was not till some years later Julie was able to draw on this knowledge more directly to apply core principles learnt in an equine environment to the handling of sheepdogs. From equine to ovine At the age of 19, and now married to a farmer, Julie acquired her first sheepdog and began to tackle Farming

some basic chores around the farm. A flame had been lit however, and Julie became increasingly fascinated with the interactions between sheep and dog and joined an Agricultural Training Board (ATB) group run by Norman Seamark, then President of the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS) in order to learn more about how to handle a sheepdog. Norman inspired Julie to run in sheepdog trials and at 21 she joined the East Anglia Sheepdog Society (EASS), a community of like-minded people some of whom were also starting their journey with sheepdogs which meant there was a relaxed and supportive atmosphere for beginners. Julie also had teaching and from Bill James in Wales and was later mentored by John Thomas, Jonny Wilson and Allan Gordon. However, Julie’s talent was obvious from the start and she did not stay a ‘beginner’ very long winning the club prize for the highest pointed member of the society in 1985 and getting a few places the following year with the first Open trial win coming when she was 24 with her Don dog. Stockmanship By this time Julie was working sheep on a range of challenging ground including the East Anglian washes which were regularly flooded. Her move to Scotland gave Julie whole new insight into sheep behaviour on the sea braes with inherent dangers of cliffs and quarries and, as sole shepherd on the 10,000 acre Braegrudie Estate in North Scotland working on dangerous moss-covered bog. These experiences taught Julie to ‘think like a sheep’ and

to listen closely to her dogs’ instincts and judgements communicated through their body language, energies and attitudes. The Natural Way – the evolution of a dog handling method Julie’s move to Scotland was the beginning of a time of self-reflection and critique in relation to her approach to working dogs. She had come to realise that in her earlier days she had been a bit rigid and demanding and not so open to listening to her dogs. Consequently, she was limited in the range of dogs she could work as she found sensitive dogs more tricky. When her highly intelligent International Champion Moss came along, who was both tough and sensitive she had to change her approach and learn to listen to her dogs. Julie began more and more to rely on instinct and body language among the three species to achieve harmonious balance. Since that point Julie has gone on refining and developing her handling method ‘The Natural Way’ which she argues helps retain the brain and natural instincts of the working dog as an effective method for stock-handling founded on three-way communication between handler, dog and sheep. Julie’s ethos has always been that her dogs first and foremost have to be capable of working to a high standard on the hill as well as being able to compete at trials. Julie has written in detail about her method in books, articles and through DVDs and other training outputs (face-to-face and on-line). Outstanding competitor, judge and teacher Julie is best-known for being the only woman to date who has won the International Supreme singles with her dog Moss and Reserve Champion on another occasion with Tess. She has also twice won the International Supreme Doubles/Brace (two dogs) with Mac and Ban as well as winning the Scottish National singles twice and the Scottish National Brace five times. She also won Champion of Champions and was runner-up in One Man And His Dog. Thus, she has proved the success of her own handling method. These outstanding successes led to numerous judging and teaching appointments in Canada, North and South America and all over Europe.

Farming diversification and business success – demonstrations, holiday cottage and teaching In 2005 Julie took on the tenancy at Carcant Farm, Heriot, Scottish Borders, the estate belonging to the Somerville family. When she took over, the sheep were mostly Scottish Blackface and Julie continued to change the stock management systems and has moved them from a lower market value to the top end and now regularly wins prizes for the hill type North Country Cheviot. Julie has successfully applied for various grants to support the farm enterprise (including conservation) and in addition received a high-profile grant from EU Leader fund to build her own holiday let to contribute to local tourism on her own holding. The holiday let has a range of tourists but many stay for various levels of sheepdog training that Julie offers. Julie had her training approved by the agency responsible for agricultural and aquacultural education in the UK (LANTRA) –and many of her students came through the Women in Agriculture fund. During Covid she innovated to develop 3 major online packages of training. Julie is a highly regarded and major destination for various big tour companies as she offers advanced level sheepdog demonstrations in stunning scenery at Carcant Farm. The preservation of the working dog With 40 years’ experience Julie’s passion for the working dog is centred on the preservation of the natural instinct, brains and ability of an animal that can think for itself at great distance, thus keeping the tradition and heritage of the working dog alive for future generations. Farming

| Energy

New pump solves sand-laden slurry headache at dairy farm dairy farm in Cheshire that was having trouble handling sand-laden slurry, has solved the problem with a new pump and help in the set-up of its reception pit. Woodhey Hall Farm, which has 1250 cows, was being forced to fix its slurry pump every week, as proprietor, Paul Robinson, explains: "The seals on the pump kept failing, so it was taking up way too much time for us with repairs and maintenance. In theory, it was a perfectly good pump for 'slurry', but we soon saw that for sand-laden slurry, it's a totally different story. You need a much sturdier pump, and the right set-up." To try and find the right solution for pumping the slurry from the reception pit up to the separator, Paul Robinson called in Landia. 'A difficult, abrasive slurry' He added: "Sand-bedding definitely has its health advantages for our cows; less lameness, less need for anti-biotics, and in general, less dust, but you need to engage with a company who has the right kit and a proper understanding of how to handle what is a difficult, abrasive slurry." Landia worked closely with Woodhey Hall Farm to emphasise the need to keep the sand-laden slurry moving as quickly as possible and whilst as fresh as possible.

Farming

Paul Davies from Landia commented: "When a reception pit is too large, and the sandladen slurry too spread out, a pump can easily become overwhelmed because the second stage of the process becomes far too heavy with sand. It becomes almost as if trying to pump sandpaper, which not surprisingly, is very damaging to the pump. "To make the system as efficient as possible, we installed our pump vertically, so as to minimise the contact made between the sand and the pump, though for sand applications, we always supply our units with hardened components. The need for spare parts is inevitable in this application, but it is possible to minimise wear and protect against abrasion for as long as possible." 'Much easier to handle' Paul Robinson from Woodhey Hall Farm, continued: "The Landia pump just hasn't stopped since its installation – and we know we can call on them for advice if we need it, so it is good to have back-up. We've made significant savings, and overall, everything is much easier to handle."

Farming

| Energy

Dairy Farmer Improves Cow Comfort and Reduces Costs with Borger Separator Technology dairy farmer who was looking for an alternative to straw as bedding material for the cubicles of his 240 cows has introduced a Bioselect RC40 Separator from Borger; complete with control technology and a Borger BLUEline rotary lobe pump. The Dissolved Solids (DS) content in the solid phase can be continuously adjusted with ease, Farming

| Energy

allowing the farmer to benefit from a high DS content (>35 %) for use as bedding material. In addition, the Borger Separator produces a low DS content (approx. 22 %) when the solid phase is to be delivered to an associated biogas plant, saving storage capacity of up to 25 %. The control unit coordinates the operation of the feed pump, the liquid phase pump - and the separator. When required, automatic separation can also be selected. Using the separated solid phase as bedding material has proved far softer and more beneficial for the cows, as well as being more cost-effective. Bacteria count in the milk has reduced significantly.

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WE DELIVER SOLUTIONS. • Rotary lobe pumps • Separation technology • Stainless steel tanks • Agitator technology • Macerating technology • Liquid feeding technology

Farming

15.06.2022 13:21:09

| Buildings

Essential Tips for Effective Hay Storage Management

roper hay storage is a crucial aspect of farming, ensuring that your livestock receive high-quality feed year-round. Whether you’re a small-scale operator or a large agricultural enterprise,

Proper Curing and Moisture Control Before loading your hay into storage, it’s essential to ensure it’s adequately cured and has the right moisture content. Proper curing allows excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of mould and heat buildup. Monitor your hay’s moisture levels using a moisture meter and aim for a moisture content of around 14-18% for safe storage. Well-cured and adequately dried hay will not only preserve better but also reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion. Ventilation Matters Good airflow within your hay storage building is crucial. Adequate ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould growth and hay spoilage.

effective hay storage management can make a significant difference in the quality and longevity of your stored hay. In this, we’ll share five essential tips to help you master the art of hay storage and preservation.

Farming

Consider investing in steel-framed hay storage buildings equipped with effective ventilation systems. These buildings facilitate proper airflow, helping to maintain hay quality. Wellventilated storage is particularly vital in regions with high humidity.

| Buildings

Different types of hay, such as alfalfa, grass, or clover, may have varying storage requirements. Customisation options in hay storage buildings can accommodate these specific needs. Consider factors like bale size and density when designing your storage space. Customising your steel-framed building to match your hay type ensures optimal storage conditions and hay quality.

Temperature Monitoring Regularly monitoring the temperature of your stored hay is an excellent preventive measure. Temperature spikes can indicate issues like heating, which can lead to spontaneous combustion. Use temperature probes or long-stem thermometers to check the temperature at various points within the hay stack. Early detection of temperature increases allows you to take action promptly, preventing potential damage to your stored hay. The optimal temperature for storing hay is generally below 38°C (100°F). Proper hay storage temperature is crucial to prevent heating, mould growth, and the risk of spontaneous combustion. Customisation For Hay Types

Regular Inspections and Maintenance Regular inspections of your hay storage building are essential to identify and address issues early on. Check for signs of damage, leaks, or structural problems. Ensure that doors and ventilation systems are functioning correctly.

Establish a routine maintenance schedule that includes tasks like cleaning gutters, replacing damaged roofing, and lubricating door mechanisms. Proper maintenance keeps your storage building in optimal condition, reducing the risk of hay spoilage. Effective hay storage management is a critical aspect of farming that directly impacts the quality and longevity of your stored hay. By following these five essential tips, you can safeguard your hay inventory and ensure that your livestock receive the best feed possible. At Buildings-UK, we offer customisable steel-framed hay storage buildings designed to enhance hay preservation and storage efficiency. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions and how we can assist you in achieving your hay storage goals. +44 1299 488 988 info@buildings-uk.com Farming

| Buildings

Enhancing Agricultural Infrastructure: The Advantages of Metal Roofing and Cladding n the United Kingdom, the agricultural sector plays a vital role in providing food and resources for the nation. To ensure the longevity and efficiency of farm buildings, choosing the right roofing and cladding materials is essential. Over the years, metal roofing and cladding have gained significant popularity due to their numerous advantages, including durability, sustainability, and costeffectiveness. This article delves into the benefits and applications of metal roofing and cladding for farm buildings in the UK. 1. Durability and Longevity Metal roofing and cladding are known for their exceptional durability and longevity. In the demanding agricultural environment, where structures are exposed to harsh weather conditions, corrosion, and impact, metal roofing and cladding offer robust protection. Steel and aluminum, commonly used metals, have a high strength-to-weight ratio, making them resistant to warping, cracking, and other structural issues. Their non-combustible nature also provides added safety in the event of a fire. 2. Weather Resistance Farm buildings often face extreme weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, snow, strong winds, and even hail. Metal roofing and cladding systems are designed to withstand these challenges effectively. Properly installed metal roofing panels and cladding sheets form a watertight barrier, preventing leaks and water damage. Additionally, metal's ability to shed snow easily reduces the Farming

risk of structural overload during harsh winters 3. Energy Efficiency Metal roofing and cladding can contribute to improved energy efficiency on the farm. Some metal coatings have reflective properties that help reduce heat absorption, leading to a cooler interior during hot summer months. By minimizing the demand for artificial cooling, farmers can save on energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. 4. Environmentally Friendly In today's environmentally conscious society, sustainability is a key consideration. Metal roofing and cladding are eco-friendly options for farm buildings. Most metal products are made from recycled materials, and they are themselves recyclable at the end of their long service life. Opting for metal not only reduces waste but also supports sustainable practices within the agricultural industry. 5. Cost-Effectiveness While the upfront costs of metal roofing and cladding may be higher compared to some traditional materials, their longterm cost-effectiveness cannot be overlooked. The durability and low maintenance requirements of metal significantly reduce repair and replacement expenses over time. Moreover, the energysaving benefits of metal contribute to further cost savings in the long run. 6. Easy Installation and Versatility Metal roofing and cladding systems are designed for ease of installation, which can lead to reduced labor costs and

shorter construction timelines. Additionally, metal offers versatility in terms of design and finishes, allowing farmers to choose from a range of profiles, colors, and coatings to match the aesthetics of their farm buildings. 7. Improved Building Integrity The lightweight nature of metal roofing and cladding places less stress on the supporting structure, which can be particularly advantageous for older farm buildings that may not have been designed for heavier roofing materials. This can lead to increased building integrity and longevity, as well as potential cost savings by avoiding the need for structural reinforcements. Metal roofing and cladding offer a plethora of benefits for farm buildings in the United Kingdom. Their durability, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and eco-friendliness make them ideal choices for agricultural structures that face challenging environmental conditions. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and design versatility of metal roofing and cladding systems further enhance their appeal. By opting for metal, farmers can invest in a long-lasting, sustainable, and visually appealing roofing and cladding solution that will serve their needs for years to come.

Ultimately, metal roofing and cladding contribute to the modernization and longevity of farm buildings, supporting the growth and development of the agricultural sector in the UK.

| Buildings

Metal Framework, Flooring, and Structural Sections in the British Farming and Construction Industry he British farming and construction industry has been an essential part of the country's economy for centuries. With the rise of modern technology and advanced building techniques, the industry has undergone significant changes to keep up with the times. One of the most significant changes has been the use of metal framework, flooring, and structural sections in construction projects. Metal Framework Metal framework has become increasingly popular in the construction industry due to its durability, strength, and versatility. In farming, metal framework is often used for building sheds, barns, and other structures that require a robust and long-lasting frame. In construction, metal framework is used for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other large-scale projects. One of the main advantages of metal framework is its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Unlike wood, which can rot or warp over time, metal framework is resistant to moisture, pests, and other environmental factors that can damage traditional building materials. Additionally, metal framework can be easily customized to fit any design or specification, making it a versatile choice for architects and builders. Flooring Flooring is another crucial

aspect of construction and farming projects. In the past, wood was the primary material used for flooring in both industries. However, with advancements in technology, metal flooring has become a popular alternative due to its strength and durability.

Metal flooring is commonly used in farming for livestock housing and storage facilities. It is also used in construction for industrial buildings such as factories and warehouses. Metal flooring is highly resistant to wear and tear and can withstand heavy machinery and equipment without becoming damaged. Another advantage of metal flooring is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood flooring, which requires regular sanding and sealing to maintain its appearance, metal flooring can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer or hose. This makes it a cost-effective option for businesses that want to reduce their maintenance expenses. Structural Sections Structural sections are essential components of any construction or farming project. They provide the support necessary to ensure that structures remain stable and secure. In the past, wood was often used for structural sections. However, with the rise of metal framework, metal structural sections have become increasingly popular due to their strength and durability. Metal structural sections are commonly used in construction

for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other large-scale projects. They are also used in farming for structures such as silos and grain storage facilities. Metal structural sections offer several advantages over traditional wood sections, including greater strength, durability, and fire resistance. Another advantage of metal structural sections is their versatility. They can be easily customized to fit any design or specification, making them an ideal choice for architects and builders. Additionally, metal structural sections are highly resistant to pests, moisture, and other environmental factors that can damage traditional building materials. In conclusion, metal framework, flooring, and structural sections have become essential components of the British farming and construction industry. Their durability, strength, and versatility make them ideal choices for businesses that want to reduce their maintenance expenses while ensuring that their structures remain stable and secure. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that metal framework, flooring, and structural sections will become even more prevalent in the farming and construction industries. With their many advantages over traditional building materials, it is no surprise that more businesses are turning to metal as a reliable and cost-effective option for their building needs. Farming

| Buildings

How can your building help reduce energy costs? e have all seen the effects of energy price increases over the last few years, no one more so than farmers and particularly when it comes to the costs associated with running grain dryers. Nostell Estate in West Yorkshire were no different, so when it came to building their new grain store, S&A Fabrications were given the task of looking at how they could use the building to reduce costs. Collaborating with Tornum Ltd, the new facility would

Farming

boast a 30tph indoor drier, integrated with Skandia Elevator equipment and the Tornum AB Intelligent Drier Control (IDC) software. In addition, Tornum also supplied a low volume aeration system and the innovative Barn Owl ventilation application to ensure the optimal condition of the grain whilst in storage. The building itself was designed by S&A and had a roof width of 25metres, creating a 1699 metre square area. At this point the solution became obvious. Teaming up with specialist solar installers, nearly 600 solar photo voltaic panels were planned and put

in place. By using the edge protection and netting already in place for the build team installing the roof, a smooth transition of work was enabled, saving costs on the installation. The whole renewables package is completely unseen from the ground below and means that Nostell will be able to run their grain handling system, almost completely free of any energy costs, for many years to come. With grants often available for such projects, there has never been a better time for introducing renewable energy

| Buildings

solutions. S&A are now recommending any farmer looking at a new grainstore, or any building, no matter the

size, to consider adding solar panels and to do it right at the start of the process, to allow for maximum cost savings.

For more information, contact Simon at S&A or visit www.sand-a.co.uk

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| Farm Safety & Security

HSE to visit farms as part of national inspection campaign armers are being reminded they must change their attitude towards safety as Britain’s workplace regulator readies itself for a wave of inspections in the coming months.

Inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will visit farms across England, Scotland and Wales as part of a push to change the culture in the industry and check for compliance with long standing legal requirements. People on farms are 21 times more likely to be killed in a workplace accident than other sectors. In total, there have been 161 deaths on Britain’s farms over the last five years - an average of 26 people each year. This includes members of the public and children. The visits, from this week to next April, will focus on the main causes of death in farming, including working with cattle, operating and maintaining vehicles and falls from height. They will also look at risks to members of the public, which often means the management of cattle around public rights of way, as well as child safety on the farm. HSE plans to carry out 440 visits during the campaign. One of the HSE inspectors helping organise and support the visits is Kathy Gostick, who offered the following advice to farmers: “We will not only be checking farmers’ knowledge of risk but

Farming

also making sure they understand their responsibility to themselves and others. We will look at actions they have taken to control these risks and comply with the law.” Although, the number of deaths in the agricultural sector has fallen by around half since the early 1980s, the rate of fatalities, which is based on the number of people at work in the sector, has remained stubbornly high, much higher than comparable industries.

There are many simple actions farmers can take to reduce the key risks: •

When using and maintaining vehicles consider ‘Safe Farm, Safe Driver, Safe Vehicle’ and follow ‘Safe Stop’ and use adequate props during maintenance.

•

When handling cattle ensure good handling facilities are in place and used and that you have considered protection of members of the public when cattle are kept in field with public access. See Handling and housing cattle AIS35 HSE and Cattle and public access - HSE

•

When considering working at height; avoid doing the work yourself - use a professional contractor instead. Don’t ever be tempted to use the wrong equipment - being lifted on the forks or bucket of a telehandler or fork lift truck is illegal. As is walking or working on fragile roof materials.

•

When considering children on farms, try and avoid them being there in the first place and if not then full and complete supervision is required. See Preventing accidents to children on farms INDG472(rev4) (hse. gov.uk)

In a bid to reduce that number, Kathy Gostick has called for farmers to stop and think differently about their own and other peoples’ safety. “There are simply too many tragedies in farming and it is time for that to change. “We are committed to making workplaces safer and healthier and that includes agriculture – we will do this by highlighting the risks, providing advice and guidance, and by holding employers to account for their actions. “This means changing attitudes towards safety – it is the only way we will reduce the numbers of people being injured or killed. “These upcoming inspections will help drive home the message that the only way we can bring down the numbers being injured or killed is if we change behaviour.” Alongside inspections, HSE regularly gives advice on safe practice to key industry stakeholders, including at agricultural shows. The regulator is a key member of the Farm Safety Partnership.

Earlier this year HSE launched ‘Your Farm – Your Future’ – a campaign focused on the number one cause of fatalities in agriculture - moving vehicles. The campaign website bringing together lots of great advice on controlling the key risks.

| Farm Safety & Security

Dark nights farm security warning from NFU Mutual as clocks go back armers are being urged to ramp up security measures to avoid becoming victims of rural theft after the clocks go back on Sunday 29 October, as criminals use the cover of darkness to steal from the countryside.

NFU Mutual, the UK’s leading rural insurer, warns that farm theft costs have been highest in the autumn and early winter months of 2021 and 2022. And following a shock 22.1% rise in the UK cost of rural crime in 2022 to an estimated £49.5m, NFU Mutual is concerned that the combination of dark winter nights with fewer people out and about could lead to a further increase in thefts this autumn. Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual Rural Affairs Specialist said: “Farmers are being hit by a wave of thefts carried out by determined gangs who will stop at nothing to get what they want. “Smaller, high value equipment such as GPS and quad bikes are being stolen in high numbers and we are also concerned by a recent surge tractor and telehandler theft. “We’re very concerned that the pattern of higher winter thefts will be repeated this year when the clocks go back and dark nights provide cover for criminals to steal from farms unseen. “That’s why we are urging farmers to take all possible steps to keep expensive equipment locked away

and make sure their farmyard security is as tight as possible. “We’re suggesting farmers look at their farmyards from the perspective of a thief to check if there are security gaps. Ask yourself are the entrance and exit points secure, and are there expensive items on display? Could you use multiple layers of security to protect valuable items? “Thieves don’t like to be seen or heard so measures such as alarms, security lighting and systems which send notifications and CCTV images to mobile phones can alert farmers to an intruder’s presence. “Farm thefts cause disruption and widespread concern to people who work and live in the countryside which is why we are proud to provide support and funding for the National Rural Crime Unit, which is strengthening work across the UK ensuring dedicated police resources are targeted where they are needed most.” Thieves use a range of tactics including online mapping websites to find where valuable farm equipment is kept and work out routes to break in without being disturbed. NFU Mutual shares its top tips for securing farm businesses: •

Close and lock yard gates

•

Park farm machinery and farm vehicles out of sight, preferably in a locked building

•

Remove GPS units where possible and lock them in a secure place overnight

•

Keep records of the makes, models and serial numbers of farm kit

•

Ensure security lighting, intruder alarms and cameras are covering all entrance points and are working correctly

•

CESAR-mark, etch or mark farm name and postcode onto kit

•

Add tracking devices and immobilisers onto vehicles. Farmers can also use mechanical immobilisers such as steering wheel locks or pedal locks on vehicles

•

Keep fuel tanks in secure compounds and consider using locks and sensors

•

Remove keys from vehicles when not in use and store them in safe, secure place

•

Join a local farm watch group or WhatsApp network to keep updated about local rural crime trends and suspicious sightings

•

Report all crimes and suspicious activity to the police

For more information on trends and advice on how to beat rural crime, NFU Mutual’s latest Rural Crime report is available at www. nfumutual.co.uk/ruralcrime

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| Farm Safety & Security

All terrain vehicles – free online training available hanks to free online training from ATVEA, you can get a solid understanding of the fundamentals of ATV (all terrain vehicle) safety and proper riding techniques in just thirty minutes. Brush up on your knowledge and take the training today.

ATVs are excellent working tools for rough terrain and can also be a lot of fun. Unfortunately, they cause serious injuries every year, which could have been avoided by following simple safety instructions, such as wearing a helmet and avoiding unnecessary risk. Free online course As part of its commitment to improving user education, the ATVEA (All Terrain Vehicle Industry European Association) has launched a new online course on ATV safety fundamentals. This can be taken using a mobile phone or tablet, and guides users through the nine golden rules of secure riding whilst

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explaining the risks involved, how to prepare and practical riding tips. Access the course for free at: ATVEA | eTraining for a safe and responsible riding experience.

incorrectly adjusted items before you start riding. 3. ATVs are designed to be driven off the public highway. Never ride on paved roads, except to cross when permitted by law.

The training course is not intended as a substitute for hands-on rider training or experience. Take the time to familiarise yourself with the ATV before you go for a ride and make sure to read and follow the instructions and warnings contained in your ATV owner’s manual.

4. Ride an ATV that is suitable for your age and experience – be sure to supervise ATV riders under 16.

The nine golden rules of safe riding

6. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed. Be sure to share your journey with others before riding.

When riding ATVs, remember these nine points to ensure a safe riding experience:

5. Never carry passengers on single-rider ATVs, and no more than one passenger on ATVs designed for two people.

7. Never ride on the influence of alcohol or drugs.

1. Always wear a suitable helmet, goggles and gloves, as well as long sleeved clothing and over the ankle boots.

8. Read your owners manual and familiarise yourself with the warning labels on your vehicle.

2. Complete a pre-riding inspection. Check the vehicle for loose, broken or

9. Always ride within your own capabilities and those of your vehicle.

| Farm Safety & Security

Clock-change security warning as new insurance data shows darker nights lead to 34% spike in theft

omeowners and motorists are being urged not to neglect security as new analysis of insurance claims figures shows a 34% increase in theft claims as darker nights draw in.

attention to security or thieves are attempting to make the most of the extended cover of darkness, our analysis of NFU Mutual claims data shows a clear increase in thefts in October and November as people adjust to the darker nights.

initial increase before thefts level out in December, so if you can secure your property in this month and next, you may drastically reduce your chances of falling victim to theft."

Home and motor insurer NFU Mutual analysed the number of claims for theft on personal home and motor policies throughout 2021 and 2022. The analysis found that, on average, there is a 34% increase in claims for theft in October and November than the other months of the year.

"We urge everyone not to be complacent and to make sure they are taking basic security measures ahead of the winter."

•

Lock doors and windows and ensure there is no easy access to the property

•

Sean Walkden, Head of Property Claims at NFU Mutual, added:

Store home and car keys away from doors and windows

•

"Although suffering a burglary or theft can be the result of bad

If you lose your keys, change your locks

•

Do not leave valuables on display in your car and remember it is always safer to store high value items in a secure place at home

This increase comes as the days quickly shorten and the clocks are set to go back this Sunday, 29 October, providing cover and opportunity for thieves.

• Consider using a security light, camera or alarm – even a dummy device could put off potential thieves

Theft of and from cars sees a greater rise during this month, though there was also an increase in the average number of home theft claims.

• If possible, make your home more difficult to approach by closing any gates and porches and blocking approaches to windows

Dave Rossall, Head of Motor Claims at NFU Mutual, said: "The nights quickly close in at this time of year and by the time the clocks go back at the end of the October, we are left with very little light in the evening. "Unfortunately, this also provides greater opportunities for thieves. Whether because homeowners and motorists are paying less

NFU Mutual's guide to home and motor security

luck and determined thieves, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk – including leaving certain lights on, installing and maintaining alarms or CCTV, keeping valuables away from doors and windows and not storing valuables in vehicles.

When going away for a few days, take steps to hide tell-tale signs of unoccupancy – pause mail and milk deliveries or ask a neighbour to collect these things so they don't build up, or ask friends and family to visit and spend time in your home

"Our claims data suggests an Farming

| Livestock

SELL-OUT CROWD FOR THE ANNUAL RABDF WOMEN IN DAIRY CONFERENCE t was a full house for last week’s (27 Sept) Women in Dairy Conference, sponsored by HSBC UK, held at Churchfields Farm, Droitwich and organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers.

The day included a varied speaker line up centred around driving diversity and sustainability. Organic dairy farmer Sophie Gregory, who farms in Dorset, explained alongside Debbie Wilkins – a farmer from the Severn Vale with a passion for regenerative practices – the different ‘roots’ you can follow when it comes to embarking on your own regenerative pathway into the industry.

possible we need to be highlighting our relationship with our cows – showing our farms in real life – if the public are aware of the great life they have and the care they receive, it takes away the stigma around these animals eventually entering the food chain.”

By getting out there and talking about what I do I am educating people and explaining how learning from our mistakes is an effective process says Ms Wilkins. “With this in mind get your team off farm to events to learn about how changes can be implemented regardless of system type.”

Sophie explained how heathy soil ultimately leads to healthy cows, milk and consumers which is a mantra the farm stand by in their bid to be a circular business.

She continues: “Introducing a team to change is challenging but my advice would be to start by looking at your soil to understand what you have physically got. It’s always sensible to try anything new on your youngstock as this brings less risks than if you were to do it on your milking herd.

“To become as relatable as

“It’s also important that staff are

Farming

aware of the wider benefits of certain practices, rather than just the regenerative angle, for example, how planting a cover crop before maize makes the maize easier to get into the ground.” Have you ever thought about diversity in agriculture? Or is it something that hasn’t really crossed your mind? You wouldn’t be in the minority if the latter rings true, that’s according to Navaratnam Partheeban (Theeb), a farm animal veterinary surgeon and co-founder of the British Veterinary Ethnicity and Diversity Society, who says the agricultural and dairy sector is the least diverse of its type in the UK when it comes to people. In a thoughtprovoking session Theeb explained how history shapes our behaviour around diversity today. Off the back of a bursary Theeb was able to work alongside a colleague to investigate ‘racism together in mental health’ and find out exactly how much diversity is in the industry. Only 0.8% of Black, Asian or Ethnic Minority backgrounds are involved in agriculture. If every one of us made a change then we could make a bigger systemic change on top of that from individuals says Theeb. Theeb went on to explain how racial harassment is difficult to discuss if you are the targeted party. “It’s a complex web of systems where negative

| Livestock

behaviour creates an unconscious bias which creates a stereotype and then prejudice, leading to discrimination. “In order to move forward we need to accept we have a problem then look to educate ourselves on this before engaging and working towards inclusion. By understanding the UK and its population, particularly that outside of the farmgate, we will ultimately be able to familiarise ourselves with minority backgrounds to overcome the issues surrounding diversity.” RABDF Council Member and dairy farmer Karen Halton chaired the day and said it was a pleasure to see so many women come together for a day of networking and knowledge sharing. “With women a fundamental part of our industry it was great to see so many of them making the effort to get off-farm for the day. Playing a pivotal role in many businesses they are key in driving our sector forward.

“I hope everyone who came along on the day found the speaker sessions as informative and inspiring as I did – with plenty of thought provoking facts to take home with them.”.u AWARD WINNER Hannah Rose was named the winner of this year’s Dairy Industry Woman of the Year Award. A 4th generation farmer who is making her own path by living and working as an assistant herdsperson at the Usk Prison Dairy Farm, passing on her knowledge and rehabilitating inmates. Hannah’s fellow finalists were Sarah Devon, an area field manager for NMR (and relief milk recorder!), a regular milker on a dairy herd of 135 and volunteer facilitator for Devon Women in Dairy and Emma Hunt, first generation dairy farmer, operating a micro dairy in Hampshire. The award, sponsored by HSBC, aims to celebrate the achievements of women in the dairy sector and is presented to

the individual who has demonstrated the core values of Women in Dairy of connect, share, and inspire. With the odds automatically against women in the industry, Hannah is busting these barriers daily, using her skills and knowledge to, quite literally, transform lives. On top of her job at Usk Prison she documents all aspects of her farming life to help educate the wider public and has built up a following of over 10k followers on her Instagram account. “I am extremely honoured to be presented with such a prestigious award and am earnestly grateful for the recognition I have received,” says this year’s award winner, Hannah Rose. She added: “I’m aware that every other nominee for this award is doing an outstanding job within the industry. I just hope I can set an inspiring example and continue to be an advocate for women in dairy through increased visibility.” Farming

| Livestock

New appointment to tackle dairy skills crisis

new role has been created by the Digital Dairy Chain project to reevaluate how the dairy industry can attract and retain its workforce.

The government-funded project, led by Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), seeks to address the skills shortage via its 'Workforce for the Future' programme. Lynne Somerville, who is employed by Digital Dairy Chain partner the University of the West of Scotland, will run the programme in her new role as Skills Lead. Lynne's aims for the five-year role include establishing a dairy skills forum and conducting a

full sector review to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and what training provisions and education policies are needed to support the dairy industry over the next 25 years. Speaking about what led her into a career in skills and education, Lynne said: "After spending years working both in the private sector and launching my own start-up ventures, I'd had a taste of working within the education sector both here in the UK and in the Middle East. "Five years ago, I joined the education sector full time working with a private Skills Development Scotland training provider and then Heriot Watt University working cross sector to bridge skills gaps and aid organisation in succession planning. "Joining the Digital Dairy Chain team allows me to hone my knowledge in one very specific and unique industry. It is vital we encourage and support more young people into a career in the dairy sector, not just for economic reasons and to ensure our dairy farmers can stay in business but so that the UK's dairy sector can compete in international markets. "There are various career paths and roles available in dairy so it's fantastic to be part of a project which is not only showcasing this but helping to break down barriers to new talent entering." Stuart Martin, Programme Director of the Digital Dairy Chain, said: "Lynne's drive and experience made her the ideal candidate for this role. We're delighted to have her leading what is fundamentally one of the most important programmes the Digital Dairy Chain is running. "I have no doubt the Workforce for the Future programme will be a key part of the project's legacy and will have a significant impact upon on the dairy sector." If you're interested in finding out more about the Workforce for the Future programme or how you can get involved, please contact lynne.somerville@uws. ac.uk

Farming

| Livestock

Boxster grandson claims 4,000gns top call CCM Skipton Autumn cattle highlight ver 500 head of cattle were penned for sale at October’s opening fortnightly midweek fixture at Skipton Auction Mart, which included the annual Autumn show day for 2022 and 2023-born suckled bull, steer and heifer calves.

Also in the mix were 20 beef breeding cattle and it was this section that produced the day’s lead price of 4,000gns for a 26-monthold pedigree Blonde bull from South Yorkshire’s Ken and Anita Jackson, of Forlorn Hope Farm, Stubbs Walden, Doncaster, heading to Cheshire with CW Shenton, Handforth. The grand sire of the bull, Stubbswalden Stevie Boy, is the famous Hallmark Boxster, probably the best Blonde bull in the country in his day, a multiple champion never beaten in the show arena one year when shown countrywide by the couple’s daughter Kate McNeil. Boxster hit the national headlines back in 2011 when at the centre of an 18-month wrangle over a contested test for Bovine TB, before being formally declared free of the disease and vindicating the Jackson family’s decision to fight a slaughter order issued the previous year. Son Paul took over the reins at the farm during the protracted court case, also looking after the onfarm wood recycling and coal businesses, with the enterprise since diversifying with the addition of a family-run farm shop, The Ranch, and on-farm butchery. While Paul continues at

the helm Ken remains firmly hands-on at the age of 79. Boxster is also the subject of books by Kate, who was also integral to the court battle to save him. Anita noted: “Ken and I could not have undertaken any of this without the support from our two children and their partners. It was a harrowing and costly experience which we wouldn't choose to repeat.” Back at Skipton, all classes of breeding cattle sold well into four figures, among them Limousin-x heifers with Charolais-x calves at foot to £2,555 and in-calf Limousin heifers to £2,280. In the show arena, familiar faces from the previous year were again among the prizes. Ribble Valley brothers Peter and Edward Fox, Fox Farms, Withgill, returned to stand both first and second in the 2022-born steer class with Limousin-x entries sold at £1,950 and £1,850 respectively, their solid run also including a brace of Charolais bullocks at £1,900. The first prize 2022 heifer again came from James and Deborah Ogden, Austwick, with a 16-month-old British Blue-x topping their run at £1,880, the class runner-up from TH&K Wood, High Birstwith, making £1,720, the third prize winner from Robert and Andrea Wade, Cononley, £1,450. The two 2022-born show classes were both won by G&PS Fleetwood, Mirfield, with Limousin-x youngsters, each selling at £1,000. Farming

| Muck & Slurry

AHDB updates Slurry Wizard tool required for DEFRA's Slurry Infrastructure grant application

ew updates announced for AHDB's Slurry Wizard tool to improve user experience as the tool is required once again as round 2 of DEFRA's Slurry Infrastructure grant application is opened.

Slurry Wizard enables farmers to work out their slurry storage requirements and explore different scenarios to make sure they're complying with regulations including SSAFO, Farming Rules for Water, Control of Agricultural Pollution (Wales) and NVZ. By entering basic farm information such as animal numbers, yard and roof areas that capture rainfall, and housing periods, the wizard calculates the volume of slurry that the farm will produce on a monthly basis. This data, together with the farm's current slurry storage capacity, is used to calculate how long it takes to fill the available storage and whether more capacity is needed. The recent updates include making rainfall data and predictions more accurate, assessing every 1km2 of locality, and making the tool more usable and effective for pig producers by allowing slurry and wash water produced on farms to be accounted for. There is also a new scenarios option to assess the impact of mitigation actions like diverting rainwater runoff or using a cover or separator, and a wider range of available bank slopes for earth-banked slurry stores and the ability to incorporate slurry bags have also been added. Slurry Wizard is also part of DEFRA's Slurry Infrastructure grant application. This grant is available to

Farming

help replace, build additional or expand existing slurry stores to provide 6 months storage, helping farmers to improve the use of organic nutrients on farms and reduce pollution. When applying for the recently opened round 2 of the grant, a copy of the farms Slurry Wizard storage capacity calculation and rainfall data is required. David Ball, AHDB Lead Environmental Scientist, said: "AHDB recognises the value of slurry, with its unique value in nutrients, and ability to reduce the need for artificial fertiliser, reduce input costs and reduce a farm's environmental impact. "Using Slurry Wizard allows farmers to make the most of their slurry by calculating their current production and capacity and allowing them to explore different scenarios by providing them with a cost benefit analysis for potential system changes, keeping them well informed in their decision making. "Having sufficient, well-designed slurry storage is essential to make best use of organic manures and minimise harm to the environment. I would encourage all farmers to make use of the Slurry Wizard tools and if they're considering investing in their slurry systems to apply for a DEFRA grant." For more information on AHDB's Slurry Wizard visit: https://ahdb.org.uk/slurry-wizard To learn more about DEFRA's Slurry Infrastructure grant visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/slurryinfrastructure-grant/how-to-apply-for-a-slurryinfrastructure-grant

Farming

| Muck & Slurry

SAMSON and PICHON slurry tankers and solid fertiliser spreaders receives EU homologation approval ollowing two years of preparations, field tests, and external assessments, SAMSON GROUP A/S has received the approval that SAMSON and PICHON agricultural vehicles meets all EU safety, environmental and conformity of production requirements. SAMSON GROUP A/S is one of the first slurry tanker and spreader manufacturers to receive the approval.

Thus, SAMSON GROUP A/S continues to demonstrate their role as frontrunner and their dedication to excellence and innovation in their line

of business. With the approval, the group’s vehicles are now authorized for operation on roads in the EU member countries. Increased road safety and smooth resale opportunities across all European countries With the approval in place, from now on all SAMSON and PICHON vehicles will be supplied with a unique legal document “Certificate of Conformity” (COC), replacing local certification of vehicles. COC documents cannot be duplicated and are specific to each vehicle. Quality control measures have been implemented throughout SAMSON GROUP’s three production sites in Denmark, France and Poland to ensure that every single vehicle meets the specified standards.

EFFECTIVE SPREADING SYSTEMS Flexible, reliable and easy to maintain: As a pioneer in agricultural technology, Vogelsang leads the way in environmental friendly spreading equipment. The dribble bar systems combined with the ExaCut distributor give the highest application of liquid manure nutrients. Dribble bars are available in working widths of 7.5m right up to 36m and are retrofit-friendly. For more information visit www.vogelsang.info/en-uk/dribble-bar-systems

VOGELSANG – LEADING IN TECHNOLOGY

Farming

“The safety when operating agricultural machinery on the road has been debated for years and we have had intense focus on road safety for several years, for example equipping our vehicles with dual-circuit braking systems. Having the EU type approval, we can now officially document to customers and authorities that SAMSON and PICHON vehicles are designed not only for specific specialised tasks in-field but also for safe operation on road networks. The approval confirms that we meet the highest EU quality and safety standards” says Niels Hagemann Haubjerg Head of Product Management & Academy. Benefits of the EU homologation approval includes not only practical safety measures, including

| Muck & Slurry

maximum axle load, range of wheel sizes, and drawbar support load and a rear end that is dimensioned to minimise damage in the event of a collision, the EU type-approval also enables smooth resale opportunities across all European countries contributing to the long-term value of SAMSON and PICHON tankers and spreaders.

provider of engineering services, TÜV NORD Institute for Vehicle Technology and Mobility, supported SAMSON GROUP with detailed technical testing and advice during the assessment.

Going forward it is up to the customers to choose whether their new SAMSON or PICHON vehicle should be delivered with or without an EU homologation and COC document. This option is to be selected when ordering and configuring a vehicle from the group. Customers that choose the EU homologation option will automatically receive a COC document together with their vehicle upon delivery. “We look very much forward to being able to offer this opportunity to new and existing customers. The demand is there and now we can deliver” concludes says Niels Hagemann Haubjerg.

Homologation is the term for the whole vehicle approval process. An approval is a governmentissued certificate that allows a product to enter a market. It starts with initial assessments followed by tests according to standards and directives, up to the preparation of substantiated technical reports to forward to the authorities in order to obtain the final approval.

About European homologation (1)

(1) https://www.tuvsud.com/en/industries/mobilityand-automotive/automotive-and-oem/ homologation-and-globalmarket-access

The EU homologation approval applies to SAMSON and PIHON vehicles with a transport axle (semi-mounted machines). Vehicles without a transport axle (mounted machines) remain subject of national approvals. The accredited, independent Farming

| Muck & Slurry

Slurry Infrastructure Grants I nfrastructure grants of between £25,000 and £250,000 to help farmers improve slurry storage should not overlook the importance of mixers and

pumps – according to Landia.

Following the recent comments made by John Tydeman of Tramspread about offsetting the huge cost of managing slurry by improving its value as a fertiliser to reduce bought-in products, Landia agree that a more homogenised product provides significant benefits. Paul Davies from Landia commented: “As farms continue to increase in size, managing slurry really needs 3phase automation, rather than the labour and fuel costs of having to use a tractor. “John (Tydeman) is right to state that when handling slurry, one should try to reduce wear on equipment, and that a decent separator to remove fibres will certainly improve capacity, but with or especially without a separator, a good Farming

quality mixing set up is a must.

“Not just in the agriculture industry, it is often considered that ‘any old mixer will do,’ but I would urge farmers lucky enough to be awarded a grant to place more

| Muck & Slurry

importance on specifying a robust mixer that will last. Likewise, a perfectly good pump often gets the blame for an inefficient slurry process, when the addition of a mixer to a slurry pit is all that is needed.” The new grants that are aimed at helping farmers improve the use of organic nutrients to boost productivity and reduce pollution, also (for the first time) offer help towards investing in a slurry separator. “This is a positive step forward,” added Landia’s Paul Davies. “Separators can help make slurry easier to store, and move around the farm, but again, please don’t think of the separator in isolation. We’ve just helped a farmer with a new system for pumping slurry from the reception pit up to the separator, because he was having to fix his existing slurry pump every week. It was a perfectly good pump for ‘slurry’, but not for sand-laden slurry. You need a much tougher pump, and the right set-up, so it is not all about the separator. Landia worked closely with the farmer to emphasise the need to keep the sandladen slurry moving as quickly as possible and whilst as fresh as possible. “Put simply, a large reception pit needs a large mixer,” continued Davies, “whereas a smaller pit with a smaller mixer means that

less sand can drop out. This is the very problem the farmer had, because he could not resuspend the sand that had dropped out, because the reception pit was too big.” “Not everyone uses sand as bedding of course, but working with vastly experienced suppliers such as Midland Slurry Systems, we can see first-hand just how important the right pumps and mixers are to the success of a separator.” Farming

| Muck & Slurry

New slurry machinery ranges from J Riley Riley Beet Harvesters (UK) Ltd, well-known as the UK importer of Vervaet machinery, has vastly expanded its slurry machinery portfolio with the addition of Bomech, Vogelsang, KummTechnik, TBL and Evers products. To handle sales of the new lines Rileys welcomes Sion Williams as sales director for slurry equipment. Additional service will be provided from a new sub-depot which is being opened near Shrewsbury.

“With this new line-up we are offering the best products on the market from premiumquality manufacturers backed-up by Rileys’ first class after-sales support,” explains managing director Matt Carse. “We have historically sold our self-propelled machines complete with an applicator, so this development is the logical progression to expand and secure this part of the business. We wanted to supply our customers with the best equipment on the market to transport, handle and apply slurry and digestate.”

Netherlands, which includes models in widths from 9m to 15m. Rileys will also become a primary UK dealer for Vogelsang, handling sales of booms in widths of 12m and above. Evers Agro makes a range of cultivation machinery including the Vari-Disc short disc harrow which is well-known in Britain. The company produces a variety of slurry application tools including cultivator, disc harrow and strip-till injectors which will be marketed by Rileys. Trailed twin- and tri-axle tankers from Kumm-Technik will be available in sizes from 16,500- litres through to 31,000-litres as well as a range of high-capacity roadgoing transport tankers. Newly appointed sales director Sion Williams has considerable knowledge and experience of slurry handling and application machinery, having previously handled UK sales for Vogelsang, and is already very well-known in this sector. “I’ve been involved in the slurry machinery industry for over 25 years,” says Sion. “Having dealt with Rileys quite extensively, joining the company has seemed like a

The new range compliments the highlysuccessful Vervaet self-propelled slurry applicator lineup which has been achieving ever increasing sales success in the UK. Dutch manufacturer Bomech has over 25 years of experience making trailing shoe slurry applicators and offers an extremely comprehensive range in widths from 7.5m to 30m suitable for mounting on trailed slurry tankers, self-propelled machines and directly onto the tractor linkage. Those requiring a high-quality disc injector can chose from the TBL lineup, also from the Farming

| Muck & Slurry

“Their addition bolsters our existing highly capable team, and makes us the go-to company for all slurry machinery.

natural progression, and with the wider product portfolio I think there’s considerable opportunity for growth. I’m looking forward to expanding and developing the successful slurry side of the business.”Additionally, Rileys are delighted to welcome Richard Sockett, also formerly of Vogelsang UK, who adds a vast array of specialist technical knowledge to the slurry machinery side of the business. Richard will be using his extensive industry experience and know-how to offer highquality service and back-up to new and existing customers, primarily from the new Shrewsbury depot.

Nevertheless, we remain well-known for sugar beet harvesters and these will always be incredibly important to Rileys, in fact they are part of the company DNA. But these additions of experienced staff will ensure that we can continue to offer excellent service to our customers for both product lines, securing the company’s longevity, whilst also taking advantage of this great opportunity to strengthen and grow the slurry side of the business.” Jonathan Hoekman, commercial director at

manufacturer Frans Vervaet B.V., echoes Matt’s sentiments.

“Large or small, we can offer everything from a standard trailed tanker with a 7.5m trailing shoe applicator to a self-propelled machine with a top of the range 36m dribble bar,” adds Sion. “There is also the option of used and factory refurbished machines. This extensive lineup allows us to cater for everyone from the family-run dairy farm looking to improve their slurry management through to the largest contractor servicing multiple AD plants.”

“We’ve had an excellent year for beet harvester sales in the UK and seen rapid growth of the Quad and Trike market,” he notes. “To support this expansion, whilst maintaining the level of service we offer, Matt has seized the exciting opportunity to welcome experienced staff in Sion and Richard. This is an extremely strategic move for Vervaet and Rileys in the UK market, allowing us to increase sales of slurry machinery whilst also letting Matt focus 100% of his time on the beet harvester market.”

“Good people are extremely important to our business, and Sion and Richard bring a wealth of experience and product knowledge with them,” points out Matt. Farming

| Machinery

Blacks of Bacton acquires Aurelia Operator Training

lacks of Bacton, a leading player in the East Anglian agricultural sector, has today announced its acquisition of Aurelia Limited, a respected plant operator training company.

This acquisition represents a union of two wellestablished, family-owned and complementary entities. Blacks of Bacton brings over a century of agricultural experience and Aurelia Limited, renowned for its expertise in plant operator training for over 25 years, adds a wealth of specialist knowledge and a loyal customer following. Together, these companies aim to enhance their collective capabilities and offer an even broader range of services and solutions to their clients. Key benefits of this acquisition include: Enhanced Expertise: By combining the strengths of both companies, clients can expect an even higher level of expertise and continued outstanding quality. New Services: Blacks of Bacton will be able to offer a new range of services that will cater to a wider range of clients.

Bacton’s presence into new markets, strengthening their position as a regional business leader in the Heart of Suffolk. Blacks of Bacton Managing Director, James Black, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "We are excited to welcome the talented team at Aurelia into the Blacks of Bacton family. This acquisition aligns with our long-term growth strategy and allows us to offer a new range of services to a wider audience. We are confident that, together, we will achieve new heights of success.” Trevor Anderson, Managing Director of Aurelia Limited, added “I’m delighted to have found a like-minded company to take Aurelia to the next stage of growth. I’m happy to say that I will continue to be a part of the business for the immediate future and look forward to passing on my knowledge to a new generation of trainers.” Under the terms of the agreement, Aurelia Limited will continue to operate under its existing brand and from its current site in Kentford. However, clients can expect to see expanded service offerings and synergies resulting from this partnership.

Geographical Reach: This acquisition extends Blacks of

Farming

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Bomford Hawk 7T

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Proportional Controls

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Power Slew

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Telescopic Oil Cooler

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4 Point Linkage Mouting

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Electric Rotor Reverse

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1.5m Pro Cut Head

Bomford Kestrel 5.7 Power Plus

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Bomford Kestrel 5.7 VFA

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Variable Forward Reach

Proportional Electric Controls Power Slew 1.2m Head

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Power Slew, Oil Cooler

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3 Point Linkage Mounted

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Electric Rotor Reverse

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1.2m Pro Trim Head

Oil Cooler, 3 Point Linkage Mounted

| Machinery

Bunning focus on application flexibility at AgriScot G T Bunning and Sons will highlight how application flexibility and reduced soil compaction can be achieved through running wider flotation tyres on its manure spreaders to extend spreading windows.

On its AgriScot stand will be a Bunning Lowlander 150 HY HBD featuring a set of BKT 900/60 R42 VF flotation tyres to help reduce soil compaction when conditions are less than favourable. The spreader has been purchased by a farmer in Aberdeenshire and features Isobus with weigh cells to increase accuracy and simplify in-field rate changes. Being able to apply valuable manures at the optimum time will help make the most of each application and reduce the need to store heaps in preparation for a contractor. Ben Johnson, UK and Ireland sales manager at G T Bunning and Sons, says farmers with a

consistent supply of manure could benefit from owning a spreader with wider flotation tyres. “Spreading in perfect conditions isn’t always possible, and wider tyres can help operators apply nutrition to crops when they need it, helping with the overall field management. The flexibility to spread little and often, rather than save it up for a concentrated spreading window, as well as running a spreader on existing tractors, will have an appeal for many farmers.”

Mr Johnson continues: “Weigh cells allow the operator to enter a target rate into the controller, which the spreader will then achieve by controlling the floor speed in relation to the tractor’s forward speed. This technology, coupled with the wider flotation tyres, offers users the best chance to apply nutrition at the right time for the crop and the soil.” Bunning will be on stand 215 Uplands Hall at AgriScot. Farming

| Machinery

Fendt launches new 600 Vario endt has launched a new four-model 600 series tractor range aimed at the 140-210hp market. Key features include a new engine and Fendt’s latest VarioDrive transmission to boost performance and reduce fuel use.

The four models – 614, 616, 618 and 620 – offer powers from 149hp to 209hp and feature the recently introduced DynamicPerformance system that can provide an additional 15hp regardless of forward speed. The 600 Vario range is powered by a newly developed 4cylinder 5 litre AGCO Power CORE50 engine. This enables it to be used for towing heavy loads, carrying front tanks, or operating heavy mounted implements. The 620 Vario can reach a top speed of up to 50 km/h at 1,250 rpm and offers 950 Nm from 1,200 rpm to 1,600 rpm. With a power-to-weight ratio of 34.4 kg per hp the 600 Vario is also very manoeuvrable, providing a turning circle of just 10.2 metres with 540/65 R30 tyres. Fendt’s VarioDrive transmission, pioneered by Fendt since 2015, features a single stage drive train which measures the slip on all four wheels to regulate power output. Minimising wheel slip using Fendt’s dynamic control system also provides greater traction whilst reducing soil compaction. A clever cab-operated reversable fan has been borrowed from larger Fendt tractors to help operation in dusty conditions. The 600 also benefits from Fendt’s VarioGrip central tyre inflation system to improve tractive power and fuel consumption by up to 8 percent. The initial 50-hour service has been dropped in favour of a 500-hour service and there are maintenance-free

hydraulic tappets built into the engine. The engine has also been prepared for alternative fuels, such as HVO, to lower CO2 emissions in the future. The FendtONE operating system communicates data from the cab to management software in the office. This onboard/offboard technology is facilitated by a multifunction joystick, 10-inch digital dashboard and a 12-inch terminal on the armrest. Fendt’s 3L joystick and another 12-inch terminal are also available as options. Smart functions such as the Fendt Guide guidance system, automatic section control and variable rate control, are all displayed through easy to access tiles on the terminals. For operators, Fendt’s VisioPlus cab is a comfortable and ergonomic place to be, with an excellent view, which is especially good for loader work. Optional windscreen heating is available, and 600 operators can also specify a front and rear camera for improved visibility. And, for longer days in the seat, the 600 also features a hot/cold box capable of cooling food to 0°C or heating it to 65°C to enable meals on the go whilst sitting in a climate-controlled space on a massaging, heated seat. The 600 Vario has been designed with loader users in mind and can be paired with the new generation of Fendt Cargo and Fendt CargoProfi front loaders. The 4.85, 5.85 and 5.90 loaders provide different lifting heights and capacities, with a maximum lifting capacity of up to 34.6 kN for the Fendt Cargo 5.90 at a height of up to 4.5 metres. It also features an optional position-independent weighing function. The Fendt 600 Vario can be ordered from Agritechnica onwards, and production will start in summer 2024.

Farming

| Machinery

LATEST USED STOCK www.chandlers.co.uk

MT775E 2015, 8189 Hrs, 430 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 25 Track %: 10 RG655C

MT765D

MT765E

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2015, 4793 Hrs 36m Pommier Boom 6000ltr

2013, 5403 Hrs, 390 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 30 Track %: 25

Guidance Ready, Extreme Ag 16/4 Powershift Transmission

2016, 11367 Hrs, Speed: 40Km/h Track: 25, Comfort Pack

£64,000.00

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MF 1765M MP

MF 5709

MF 6S.145 EFD6

MF 7716 EFD6

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£136,380.00

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FENDT 516

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£92,850.00

£133,000.00

2022, 65 HP Tyres: 95-16 (100%) 136-28 AG(100%)

LESS THAN

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2020, 580 Hrs, 90 HP Tyres: 440/65R24 (90%) 540/65R34 (90%)

2023, 95 Hrs, DYNA-6 Tyres: 480/65R28 (100%) 600/65R38 (100%)

2021, 1450 Hrs, 180 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (80%) 650/65R38 (80%)

MF 8S.205 EFD7 2021, 1167 Hrs, 200 HP Tyres: 600/70R30 (85%) 650/85R42 (85%) Radar Fitted, Power Beyond, 4 Spools Dyna-7 Transmission, Closed Centre Spec. Package: EFFICIENT

2021, 2750 Hrs, 160 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (50%) 650/65R38 (50%)

£98,750.00

2015, 5400 Hrs, Tyres: 540/65R30 650/65R42

2017, 6741 Hrs, 280 HP Tyres: 600/70R30 (30%) 650/85R38 (40%)

2017, 6152 Hrs, Tyres: 710/60R34 (95%) 900/60R42 (75%)

FENDT 724 LESS THAN

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VALTRA G125EH 2021, 412 Hrs, 120 HP Tyres: 380/85R28 (95%) 460/85R38 (95%)

58,500.00

2023, 1400 Hrs, Tyres: 600/65R28 (85%) 650/75R38 (85%)

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VALTRA T194A

VALTRA T175EA 2017, 3997 Hrs, 175 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (50%) 650/65R38 (50%)

2022, 615 Hrs, 195 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (100%) 650/65R42 (100%)

£69,950.00

£111,250.00

Michelin Tyres Proﬁ Plus Spec Package

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VALTRA T254V ST 2022, 456 Hrs, 220 HP Tyres: 600/65R28 (100%) 650/75R38 (100%) DIRECT CVT Transmission 4 Spools, Closed Centre

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JCB 526.56

MANITOU 841

MERLO 42.7 CS

2019, 3517 Hrs, 75 HP 3500kg lift, 9.5m Reach Pallet Tines/Carriage

2022, 788 Hrs 8m Reach, 4100kg Lift

2017, 6275 Hrs 7m Reach, 4200kg lift Tyres: 460/70R24 (50%)

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FORD RANGER

MITSUBISHI L200

NISSAN NAVARA

SSANGYONG MUSSO

VW AMORAK

2019 (19) 3.2 Wildtrack Auto Double Cab 15,364 Miles

2019 (19) 2.4 Barbarian Auto Double Cab 127,099 Miles

2016 (16) 2.3 Tekna Manual Double Cab 53,650 Miles

2017 (17) 2.2 EX Manual Double Cab 123,072 Miles

2019 (68) 3.0 Trendline Manual Double Cab 41,170 Miles

£26,990.00

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SC AN M

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Farming

| Machinery

POWER UP YOUR TOOLS WITH MAKITA’S LATEST XGT POWER SOURCE KIT REDEMPTION eading power tool manufacturer Makita has launched a new redemption promotion for its XGT Power Source Kit range. Running from the 1st October until the 31st December 2023, end users can claim a free 40VMax XGT 2.5Ah battery when they purchase a selected XGT Power Source Kit.

Makita Power Source Kits are an ideal way for end users to start or expand a cordless system of XGT 40VMax tools. There are six qualifying Power Source Kits available in total as part of Makita’s latest promotion: Four kits with two batteries (2.5Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, and 8.0Ah options) and fast charger, and two kits with four batteries (5.0Ah and 8.0Ah options) and a twin-port fast charger. All are supplied in a robust Makpac carry case. Purchasing a Makita Power Source Kit

enables you to select your preferred battery options, and then select your XGT tools from a wide range of body only models as a costeffective option. The Power Source Kit and body only products enables customers to build their own kit of XGT products specific to their job requirements. With a high number of XGT models also available in Makpac cases, you can simply connect the Makpac tool cases to your Power Source Kits for improved storage and safe transport. Makita’s latest promotion allows end users to claim a free BL4025 2.5Ah XGT Battery (retail value of over £100) with qualifying XGT Power Source Kits. This Li-ion battery is a powerful general use battery with an LED charge level indicator for use with Makita’s range of 40VMax and 80VMax XGT tools. The heavy-duty battery can be charged in just 28 minutes with a rapid charger, for optimum performance and productivity on site.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, said: “Our XGT range is designed to help our customers work faster, more efficiently and safely with cordless technology that offers optimum power, high performance and exceptional run time. Batteries can be easily changed between https://www.claas.co.uk tools, depending on the task and with our The ARION 600 and 500 range - the new mid-range standard latest promotion, we’re helping end users Assisting you, wherever it is needed. One of our most popular tractors has just got even better thanks to a host of new enhance their cordless experience with a functions developed by our engineers in consultation with ARION drivers. free battery.” After all, they work in the field every day, so they know exactly what they want.

For more information contact:

Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lodge Farm, Broughton Road, Frolesworth, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 5EH Telephone: 01455 209300 https://www.sharnfordtractors.co.uk

Makita’s latest redemption will run until the 31st December 2023. Customers who purchase any qualifying XGT Power Source Kit from an authorised dealer between 01.10.23 and 31.12.23 must register their purchase online via the redemption promotion website within 28 days of purchase to claim their free product (see website for full Terms & Conditions and qualifying criteria). Customers will receive their free 2.5Ah (BL4025) 40VMax XGT Battery on successful application. For more information about Makita’s redemption promotion, visit: www.makitauk. com/redemptions

Farming

| Machinery

XGT POWER SOURCE KIT REDEMPTION SCHEME

1st OCTOBER - 31st DECEMBER 2023

CLAIM A FREE 40V 2.5AH BATTERY WITH SELECTED XGT POWER SOURCE KITS MAKITAUK.COM/REDEMPTION

191J85-8 2.5AH POWER SOURCE KIT

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191V42-8 5.0AH POWER SOURCE KIT

191U48-0 5.0AH POWER SOURCE KIT

1910A2-5 8.0AH POWER SOURCE KIT

1910B1-4 8.0AH POWER SOURCE KIT

Claims can be registered online from 1st October 2023 and must be registered within 28 days of purchase for qualifying models. Qualifying models must be purchased by 31st December 2023 to qualify and registered within 28 days. T&C’s apply – See website for details.

Farming

| Machinery

Farming

| Machinery

FIVE CASE IH PRODUCTS NOMINATED FOR FARM MACHINE 2024 AWARD AT AGRITECHNICA he new Case IH Quadtrac 715, Optum 340 CVXDrive, Puma 260 CVXDrive, Farmall 75C Electric and AxialFlow 160 series have been shortlisted in the nominations for the award.

In addition, all machines are nominated for the Audience Choice Award. Voting for this award is possible on www.farmmachine.eu/en/ and will start from October 9th until November 11th, 2023. Everyone can vote for their favorite product once per day within this period.

"We're incredibly proud to wear the Case IH logo on our chests, and even more proud to show off our products in this forum," said Mirco Romagnoli, Vice President Case IH & STEYR, Europe. "The nominations for this award across categories and product lines shows just how versatile and valuable the Case IH brand is for farmers not only in Europe, but around the globe. We are here to give farmers the tools to optimize their operations at every level, and these product innovations are part of that ongoing commitment."

Farming

| Machinery

The new Case IH Quadtrac 715, Optum 340 C

lectric and Axial-Flow 160 series have been shortlisted in the nominations for the award.

The Farm Machine 2024 award spotlights products from across the industry, shining a light on those that bring the most potential productivity advantages to prospective owners. Case IH products, each a finalist in the XL, high horsepower, mid-range, compact tractors as well as combines category, represent five Case IH entries in a field of just 35 shortlisted entries across the 12 machine categories. The winners will be announced on November 14 at Agritechnica 2023 in Hanover, Germany. In addition, all machines are nominated for the Audience Choice Award. Voting for this award is possible on www.farmmachine. eu/en/ and will start from October 9th until November 11th, 2023. Everyone can vote for their favorite product once per day within this period. Farming

Quadtrac 715 AFS Connect: Case IH's most powerful tractor ever. The 778hp/ 572kW (peak power) Quadtrac 715 incorporates significant advances to operate implements at their ideal speed, producing higher workrates and allowing operations to be performed at the ideal time, even in tough working conditions.

| Machinery

CVXDrive, Puma 260 CVXDrive, Farmall 75C

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Farmall 75C Electric: Building on a century of innovation, the Farmall 75C Electric Tractor is the next evolution of the legendary Farmall line. Offering longerlasting diesel-like performance combined with easy-to-use, automated tech features, this quiet, comfortable, zeroemission utility tractor powers a variety of jobs — whether maintaining a vineyard, clearing an airfield, or managing a small herd. Axial Flow 160 Combine Range: Featuring automation capabilities, the Axial Flow 160 series combines provide a consistent harvest for operators of all experience levels. Designed for increased productivity, operator comfort and ease of use, these combines deliver high-quality grain while minimizing foreign material for maximum ROI. Optum 340 CVX Drive: Retaining the good power to weight design of previous models, this machine delivers up to

340hp for greater performance, productivity and efficiency. For extended versatility and compatibility, ISOBUS Class 3 is upgraded allowing for certified implements to automatically control specific tractor functions. •

Puma 260 CVX Drive with AFS Connect: Sporting a brand-new cab design bringing optimal comfort and ease-of-use for every operator, including 8% more volume for extra leg and head room. Reduction in noise levels of 66db and 11% more glass coverage for additional vision and safety.

"I'm excited to see how everyone shows their passion for Case IH by voting for these awards," continued Romagnoli. "Our products are proof of the commitment we have to the farmers we serve – and these products in particular not only deserve the spotlight they're in right now, but are just another example of what Case IH stands for."

Farming

| Machinery

The power of hydraulics in agriculture he integration of hydraulics within modern agriculture has revolutionised farming operations, transforming the way farmers work, boosting efficiency, productivity, and precision. Yet, with high volumes of produce to distribute, domestically and internationally, unplanned downtime through hydraulic failure can be costly. Thanks to unpredictable weather patterns, this is especially the case during growing season and harvest-time when timing is crucial to sow and harvest crops. That’s why it is crucial for equipment to be up and running again as quickly as possible.

How are hydraulics used in agriculture? Hydraulics is a branch of science that deals with the mechanical properties of fluids, particularly the transmission of force through pressurised fluids. In the world of agriculture, hydraulics involves the use of fluid power to operate machinery, control implements, and perform various tasks on the farm. Here are a few examples of the types of machines using hydraulic systems in agriculture: •

Tractors

•

Harvesters

•

Sprayers

•

Track loaders

•

Irrigation systems Farming

These systems consist of hydraulic pumps, cylinders, valves, and hoses that work together to transmit and control power. There are specific times of the year where hydraulic equipment is relied on by farmers to support the work they do. A typical

farming calendar is split into seasons and used as a working schedule. Winter – At this time of year, farmers are usually busy ploughing fields which can be difficult due to reduced daylight time. This will involve the use of a hydraulic-powered plough which is attached to the tractor as well as the use of a harrow to break up the soil and a cultivator to loosen the soil – all in preparation for Spring. January and February are the ideal time for machine maintenance duties to be carried out. As temperatures become milder, tankers, spreaders, and agitators will be used to as part of the slurry spreading process to ready the soil for planting crops. Slurry season will normally tick into March along with the sowing, fertilising and spraying of some crops.

Spring – After lambing season, Spring usually revolves around livestock for many farmers, and hydraulic powered machinery such as spreaders will be used to fertilise grazing fields. In the month of May, crop spraying, muck spreading and all-round maintenance and repair work will also occur. The haymaking process will also begin and be carried out throughout June, requiring the use of balers, rakes, mergers, cutters, handlers and wrappers – all of which use hydraulics. Summer – An exciting time for farmers as they will be showcasing their livestock at various fairs and events. Haymaking and silage collection will continue and crops such as potatoes will be treated with pesticides. Combine season for cereal crops will also commence. Key hydraulic components in a combine harvester include a cutting header that cuts standing crop and a threshing drum to separate the grain from straw. Conyers, augers and grain tanks are also powered by hydraulics, enabling smooth grain flow and convenient unloading. As the season draws to a close, harvesting will be in full flow in September, with ploughing and cultivation work kicking back into gear. Drilling and sowing will also begin on barley and winter wheat. Autumn – Crop farmers will be hard at work cultivating and drilling wheat ready for the new year. Crops such as potatoes and sugar beets will also be harvested, however, this

| Machinery requires specialist machinery to efficiently support the digging, separation, and collection process. Hydraulic equipment required for the harvesting of potatoes, for example, includes potato harvesters, windrowers, conveyer systems, and sorting and grading machines. With Winter fast approaching, wheat drilling will continue until midNovember and many farmers will use this time to also plough and prepare their fields ahead of the new year. The evolution of hydraulics in farming Hydraulic machinery has been used within agriculture for centuries, with evidence dating back to ancient civilisation. Early hydraulic machinery primarily focused on water management, irrigation, and power generation rather than specific machinery as we understand it today. The industrial revolution played a significant role in the application of hydraulic power in agriculture, and developments in technology and machinery have continued into the 21st century. Important milestones include: •

18th – 19th century agricultural machinery such as the hydraulic press, hydraulic rams, and hydraulic pumps were developed.

•

Early 20th century – tractors began to be fitted with hydraulic systems in the early 1900s to power various farm implements including ploughs and cultivators.

•

Mid-20th century – the development of hydraulic excavators revolutionised earth moving and land development in agriculture.

•

Late 20th century – advances in technology led to the development of more specialised equipment such as hydraulic sprayers for crop spraying and hydraulic motors for power harvesting equipment.

The benefits of hydraulics in agriculture machinery

Hydraulic have revolutionised the way farming tasks are performed, increasing efficiency, and boosting productivity. Here are eight advantages to hydraulics in agriculture. 1.

Power and versatility

Hydraulic systems provide high power and force making them suitable for a wide range of agriculture applications. They can efficiently handle heavy loads, operate machinery, and perform tasks such as lifting, digging, and pulling. 2.

Precision

By adjusting flow rates and pressure levels, farmers can fine-tune the performance of equipment like tractors, harvesters, and sprayers. This precision helps optimise productivity and helps minimise waste. 3.

Increased efficiency

Hydraulic systems transmit power through fluid under pressure. This design minimises energy loss during transmission, resulting in improved efficiency compared to mechanical systems. It also delivers faster response times enabling the swift and accurate operation of machinery. 4.

Adaptability

Hydraulics can easily be integrated into existing agriculture equipment or retrofitted onto older machines. This adaptability allows farmers to upgrade their machinery without significant modifications or replacements, saving both time and money. 5.

Safety

Features such as pressure relief valves and overload protection mechanisms help prevent equipment damage and sure the safety of operators. Hydraulic components are also less prone to overheating or damage from overloads, increasing overall system reliability.

Known for their durability and resistance to harsh environment conditions, hydraulic systems can withstand exposure to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures, making them suitable for agricultural use. They also typically require less maintenance than mechanical systems, resulting in reduced downtime and lower operating costs. 7.

Productivity

By harnessing the power of hydraulic systems, farmers can accomplish tasks more quickly and efficiently. Hydraulic machinery can handle larger workloads, perform multiple functions simultaneously, and operate in challenging terrain, leading to increased productivity and improved crop yields. 8.

Cost-effective

Whilst hydraulic systems may require high upfront investment, they are cost effective in the long term. The efficiency and durability of machinery can lead to reduced fuel consumption, lower maintenance expenses, and longer equipment lifespan, helping farmers to save on costs. Our specialist agriculture solutions Whether it’s a replacement slurry hose or a new bauer coupling, we supply and fit an extensive range of products unique to agriculture machinery requirements. We also understand that downtime can cause significant disruption to both you and your customers, which is why our network of industry-leading, highly trained service technicians can be dispatched to your location in less than one hour. Learn more about how we help keep the agriculture industry moving here. To find your nearest Pirtek centre in the UK or Ireland, use our free postcode checker or call us today on 0800 38 24 38

6. Durability and low maintenance Farming

| Machinery

Scottish farmers celebrated at

Harvest Thanksgiving service, organised by the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS,) took place on Sunday 1st October at St Giles Cathedral to give thanks for an abundant harvest, raise awareness about the importance of Scottish agriculture and pay tribute to the hardworking farmers who

Farming

make it all possible. Seasonal fruits and vegetables were also on display, generously provided by local farmers from East and West Lothian, and were donated to charities including The Salvation Army, Cyrenians and Social Bite. The combine and tractor were provided by RHASS Director Bill Gray of Prestonhall Farm.

| Machinery

t Harvest Thanksgiving service

The Harvest Thanksgiving was led by Rev Sigrid Marten, Associate Minister of St Giles' Cathedral.

Royal Mile is one way to remind us of our dependence on those who work hard to produce our food."

"We are very excited that we have been able to work closely together with the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland to highlight the vital role that Scottish farmers play in providing great quality food. Bringing farming equipment to the

For further information about the work of RHASS, visit rhass.org.uk

Farming

| Tyres

New high horsep

ontinental has launched new sizes of its TractorMaster and CompactMaster AG/EM tyres. The tyres have been designed to improve the fuel efficiency of higher horsepower machines by reducing rolling resistance.

The TractorMaster was the most fuel efficient of all premium brand tyres in tests carried out by the German agricultural society Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft (DLG). It also delivered the most efficient transmission of Farming

engine power, offering the best ratio of tractive output to PTO of the brands on test. “Higher horsepower tractors are being chosen to reduce fuel consumption during heavy draft work. Tracked machines are not as versatile as a high horsepower tractor on tyres so Continental has developed the TractorMaster to provide grip whilst minimising ground compaction and fuel consumption,” explains Continental agricultural tyre specialist Tom Godwin.

| Tyres

power tyre sizes

In the DLG test the TractorMaster tyre was three percent faster over the same distance and used less fuel to complete the same task. To further extend the sizes available, Continental has added a 600/70R34 front to the TractorMaster range, with a 620/70R42 rear tyre due to launch in the near future. “The TractorMaster has a single bead filament construction and features our patented N.flex nylon layer, which helps the tyre to retain its roundness, even when working in stony soils or stubbles,” adds Mr Godwin.

Continental has also launched a new size of loader tyre. The CompactMaster is now available in the size 500/70R24. It is available in two tread types; the AG which is designed for agriculture and the EM which has a tread pattern better suited to hard-surface logistics. The new sizes join 110 existing tyres that Continental has developed since relaunching its agricultural tyre division in 2017.

Farming

| Tyres

Polish Return For Goodyear Farm Tires

oodyear Farm Tires has strengthened its European distribution network by partnering with a leading wholesaler in Poland.

Goodyear's full range of radial and bias products will be available through Latex and its subsidiary company Hurtopony. Latex provides more than 2.1 million tyres each year to distributors in different sectors also including motorcycle, passenger cars and industrial - and also sells direct to end users through its subsidiary companies. Dawid Koziolek, Head of Agricultural Tyres at Latex and CEO of Hurtopony SP.z.o.o, said: "We are delighted to have become an official distributor of Goodyear Farm Tires. "The name of Goodyear Farm Tires was extremely popular in Poland for many decades. It dropped off the market around a decade ago but has retained its reputation for outstanding quality and excellence in performance. "To be playing a significant part in bringing Goodyear Farm Tires back to the Polish market is a project we are all looking forward to and we know it will be well received across the country. "Those farmers who know Goodyear Farm Tires is back are extremely excited about the return and we are already seeing strong interest in the Optitrac range." Latex distributes product to its extensive network from four main locations across Poland, in Ruda Slaska, Opole, Bydgoszcz and Sosnowiec. Lindsay Hart, European Tyre Sales Director for Titan International, said: "Poland has a very strong Farming

agricultural market and we are delighted to be forging close links with Latex to re-establish Goodyear Farm Tires in the country. "Latex is a business with a fantastic reputation and it is a great platform to take the brand back into a country renowned for agricultural excellence. "This helps us continue to extend our presence across Europe and forms another strong relationship with a key strategic distributor." Titan International has been manufacturing Goodyear Farm Tires in America for more than a decade and purchased the licence for the European and UK markets in 2015. It has also made a significant investment in new plant and equipment to manufacture tyres specifically for the European market.

| Tyres

Which types of tires are best suited for certain terrains within the agricultural sphere hoosing the right tires for your vehicle can be a difficult task, as there are many factors that can make each tire unique. Since the tread of the tire is what will be directly in contact with the soil surface, it's important to choose something that functions well on the terrain you interact with the most. The right tire for the right job and terrain (working with the right inflation pressure) will enable you to work more efficiently, safely and prolong the lifespan of your tires, potentially reducing avoidable costs.

Tires are an intricate part of every machine. They come in a variety of sizes and treads, depending on the kind of work they need to do: each tire is specifically fit for its function. Tires are made out of synthetic rubber with a fabric covering, and have an inner structure used to strengthen the tire and make it long-lasting.

for daily tasks on the soil, such as soil tillage, and can also be suitable for vineyard harvesting (depending on tire size). This is another of our versatile products which we would recommend for a variety of different terrains on the farm - with no compromise on performance. Turf Tires Turf tires are designed to provide low soil compaction without damaging the turf due to the rounded shoulders and tread design. Imagine the tarnished aesthetic of a football pitch, on which worked a lawn mowers provided with wrong tires, covered in deep track marks - and beyond the aesthetic, these could even trip up players!

Today’s blog will guide you through which types of tires are best suited for certain terrains within the agricultural sphere, to help you decide which product will be the ideal companion to accompany your dayto-day tasks. So, let’s get started!

The aforementioned vehicles are less powerful forms of machinery, with minimal traction abilities. A key example is the GF 304 for golf applications: it is designed for comfort and immaculate turf protection. Additionally, the AT 119 is a tire designed specifically for the mower, and is suitable for all terrains pertaining to lawn and garden applications. Its tire tread design ensures excellent field protection whilst meeting your mower needs.

Agriculture Tires

ATV Tires

Farmers and contractors need reliable tires to get the most out of their farming equipment. Agriculture tires are designed for field work - which can come in all sorts of conditions. They are very large with very deep treads to enable great traction and pulling and pushing strength. What’s more, agriculture tires are designed to reduce soil compaction which is bad for crop yield. If you’re interested in learning more about agriculture tires, check out our vast product range here. Now let’s take a look at some of our best-sellers, which are each tailored to different tasks and terrains on the farm.

ATV tires are designed specifically for all-terrain vehicles (ATV). So, in relation to this guide, these are the tires that have got you covered for each and every agricultural terrain!

BKT specifically designed the AGRIMAX V-FLECTO for high-power tractors (with equally high -power jobs!). With its VF technology, this tire can carry heavy loads with a lower inflating pressure, reaching high speeds. It also ensures reduced soil compaction and has sought-after self-cleaning properties, making it ideal for soil tillage. Soil tillage is the mechanical processing of soil, preparing it for seeding. If you’ve got a high maintenance job with a high-power machine, AGRIMAX V-Flecto is the tire for you. AGRIMAX RT 657 is perfect for on-the-road usage, guaranteeing excellent driving comfort and those allimportant fuel savings! This robust tire is also suitable

However, to be more specific, we’re going to talk about our trusty AT 171: a tire specially designed for mud bogger tractors. So, if you’re looking for a tire fit for purpose for wet and muddy terrains - the AT 171 is for you! Why? The directional and extra-deep tread design provides excellent traction, which is all the more necessary on slippery surfaces! One of the most important aspects of any vehicle is its tires. And believe us, we’re not biased - these are simply the facts! Not only do tires provide a certain iconic aesthetic factor, they are also vital for your safety and for the overall performance of your vehicle. The tread on your tires can greatly increase your traction, which will keep you safer in extreme weather conditions. By following this guide, you will find that you have more traction, better handling, and a more comfortable ride - whatever the weather, and whatever terrain is under-wheel! Head on over to the BKT Tires website to discover the huge diversity of tires available for every agricultural job - and every terrain - imaginable.

Farming

| Tyres

BKT AMONG THE PIONEERS OF FUTURE FARMING - THE COMPANY ANNOUNCES ITS PARTICIPATION IN AGRITECHNICA 2023 At one of the world's leading trade show for agricultural machinery, BKT will lift the veil on the latest technological innovations and the excellence of its products

fter four years, Agritechnica 2023 is back! The international trade show taking place from November 12 till November 18, 2023, in Hanover, Germany, will bring together the world's leading industry players expecting more than 2,400 exhibitors from 53 countries.

Among these leaders, there is BKT, the multinational Off-Highway tire manufacturer that for more than 30 years has been able to combine reliability, innovation and high performance in one of the widest product ranges designed to meet all types of applications: from agricultural to industrial operations, as well as the construction, mining and quarrying industries. In line with the theme "Home of farming pioneers," chosen by Agritechnica for this year's upcoming edition, BKT will focus on sustainability and innovation – two key values of the projects that will represent the future of agriculture. At the exclusive BKT space, which can be visited at Stand A36 in Hall 7, attendees will be able to take part in networking activities, digital experiences, freestyle football shows, as well as a rich program of events, starting with the traditional and eagerly awaited free distribution of more than 30 thousand footballs. Among the stars of the exhibition area, there will be recently-announced products, such as AGRIMAXFACTOR, the 70 series for tractors, which has been launched just a few months ago and designed to meet the needs of road transport and tillage operations. This tire combines technology and aesthetic design, ensuring high standards of drivability and excellent maneuverability. With AGRIMAXFACTOR being part of the E-Ready range, BKT pursues its commitment to electric mobility with the future goal of implementing technology to improve product performance, thus anticipating market needs. Among the Farming

new agricultural tires, the company will showcase also RIDEMAX FL 615 and FL 695: the former suitable for free-rolling wheels of agricultural trailers, tankers and spreaders, while the latter has been specifically designed for trailers in agricultural transport operations as well as construction activities. Thanks to its robust casing, the tire is able to maintain stability in all conditions. At Agritechnica 2023, BKT's latest innovations will be in the spotlight: First and foremost, a new radial forestry tire, conceived for tractors, and a new conventional forestry tire model, that will enrich the company's forestry range. Visitors will also have the opportunity to preview an innovative agricultural trailer tire, featuring high lateral stability as well as low rolling resistance thanks to the closed tread design and the All Steel radial structure. The tire ensures exceptional flotation and traction performance on soft surfaces. Finally, among the novelties, there is a new size of rubber tracks, which have been recently launched and are already attracting great interest from both the aftermarket and Original Equipment manufacturers. "Today we have to face the increasingly complex challenges imposed by the global agricultural production. For BKT, Agritechnica is an opportunity to engage with the world's key industry leaders and explore which will be the future shape of agriculture, as well as an occasion to share the technological innovations that distinguish our products. Ever since, it has been our mission to understand and meet the needs in terms of growth and evolution of OEMs, partners as well as end users, whom we look forward to all welcoming to our booth for memorable experiences."Lucia Salmaso, Managing Director of BKT Europe. BKT looks forward to seeing you at Agritechnica, Hanover, November 12-18, 2023, at booth A36 Hall 7.

| Tyres

Trelleborg leads farmers to a new frontier of sustainable farming at Agritechnica 2023 epower tyre sizes

relleborg will bring to Hanover's Agritechnica fair its tire technologies of today for farming of tomorrow, live from Booth #B04 – Hall 20.

Trelleborg, continuing its longstanding tradition as a "farming industry pioneer," will reveal its most sustainable tire yet, the TM1 ECO POWER, made from 65% recycled and bio-based materials. The advanced technology applied to tread design makes TM1 ECO POWER the unrivaled tire solution for road and hard soil, allowing for unparalleled low rolling resistance meaning significant savings in fuel and battery consumption on electric tractors. Trelleborg experts will be on hand to provide customers all tire benefits with the real tire on show, as well as presenting this new tire to media in the dedicated conference on November 13, at 2 pm at Booth B04 – Hall 20. As global tire leader for agriculture, Trelleborg will feature on its booth key latest advanced tire solutions on the market, engineered to tackle the greatest challenges affecting agri industry worldwide. Trelleborg has answered the call for more sustainable performance, wider crop yields, and more efficient business operations by raising the bar when it comes to new tires. Each tire on display offers key benefits for agribusinesses, according to application and load capacity, with many developed in cooperation with OEM partners. Tire technologies today for farming of tomorrow As agricultural sector is evolving rapidly, advanced technology into farmer's hands is just another way Trelleborg supports professionals in daily business. Starting with ATMS (Adaptive Tire Management System), farmers will get real-time tire data for ultimate tractor performance through tire-mounted sensors that bring smart farming to everyday operations. The ATMS detects the tire working conditions including each tire's dynamic load, pressure, and temperature. While working, the farmer is constantly informed on how to fully optimize the tractor configuration in each operation through the most appropriate tire inflation pressure for an optimized footprint and reduced soil compaction, and the correct tractor ballast and implementation set-up for improved drivability on the road, greater traction and lower rolling resistance. Premiered at the Paris SIMA show (France) in November 2022, the HF1000 is Trelleborg's next generation implement tire, especially engineered for handling larger load capacities on large forage wagons and slurry tankers. The latest HF1000 comes with an innovative tread pattern ensuring a wider footprint and self-cleaning, delivering minimal soil compaction and maximum efficiency even for the most demanding applications. With its VF casing and steel belted structure, this tire ensures long durability and superior

performance both in the field and on the road. Conceived for municipality and transport applications, the MPT100 has proven to be a highly versatile highperformance tire designed for multi-purpose off-road trucks. The MPT100 tire ensures excellent stability and greater wear resistance, while its flat tread crown reduces soil compaction. The tire goes even further by providing for optimal selfcleaning as well, due to its carefully crafted inter-lug terraces that enable mud ejection and prevent the tread from clogging even in intensely muddy conditions; this way farmers can rely on a tire that's always working at top efficiency. Trelleborg's multi-awardwinning tire, the TM1000 ProgressiveTraction®, will be on show to answer the call for increased customer's productivity with the lightest touch on soil. Made for the most advanced machinery, it ensures premium handling, high load capacity and selfcleaning, thus higher traction. The ProgressiveTraction® tread design, fit for the latest generation of machinery, delivers less stress on the soil through superior floatation and unbeatable traction with its extra-wide footprint; while on the road it guarantees low fuel consumption and emissions, premium handling and comfort while extending tire life. To ring in the new era of Valtra's 6th generation S Series tractor, a full set of Trelleborg TM1000PT tires personalized with "THE BOSS" lettering will fit the so nick-named high horsepower tractor on show at Agritechnica, offering all the technology our advanced smart farmers expect along with the famous Valtra Unlimited customizations. As a leading expert in complete wheel solutions, Trelleborg will also show off its patented agricultural TW rim profile made for today's tractors, combines and harvesters, ensuring easier fitting and proper inflation of low-pressure tires for enhanced performance.

And finally, the Trelleborg Booth #B04 – Hall 20 offers something for everyone, including gaming fans with a corner fully dedicated to Farming Simulator eSport. Agritechnica will host the next live tournament with the Trelleborg official team competing. Players and visitors are invited to play to the latest Farming Simulator 22 video game on official game seats, experiencing a real e-competition. The Farming Simulator offers a unique gaming experience, where players take on the challenges of modern agriculture including land cultivation, crop harvesting and animal feeding, and can choose from over 300 tractors fully equipped with Trelleborg tire solutions. It's just one more way that Trelleborg shows its commitment to advancing the agricultural industry, encouraging productivity, farming efficiencies and sustainability by engaging farmers in new and exciting ways, using advanced technologies geared for the future.

Farming

| ATV

ATV essential for Britain’s wettest farmland

onathan Robinson’s Yamaha Kodiak 450 is the only machine he needs to manage 148 hectares of hill and common land, with 900 Swaledale ewes and 50 suckler cows on some of Britain’s wettest farmland.

Bridge End Farm sits at the edge of Thirlmere in the wettest part of the UK. Up to 120 inches of rain have been recorded in recent years, making the ground a challenge to manage. However, Jonathan and his family have been farming at Bridge End for four generations and have a thriving farm and campsite.

stewardship to make the most of them. We don’t use herbicides or pesticides, we maintain the stone walls and take pride in managing what we see as being some of the most beautiful hillside in the UK,” he says. Maintaining his land and tending to the flock has seen him cover 4300 miles in just 9 months on his Yamaha Kodiak 450 EPS SE. The Special Edition model, which includes power steering and diff lock, supplied by Carrs Billington of Penrith, is tested on the steep, wet ground, and is an essential tool that Jonathan relies on. “The reliability of our Yamahas has been

“I can’t imagine tending to the flock on foot. My father and I have had a string of Yamaha ATVs and without them I don’t know how we would have managed with all the changes that hill farming is experiencing,” he says. For the family, farming common land in the Lake District has seen significant change, especially in recent years with initiatives to rewild areas and plant more trees. “Our farmhouse is near a reservoir so grazing nearby has reduced significantly. We have also fenced off areas and reduced stock numbers over the years to meet conservation requests. However, with the changes have come many opportunities and we joined mid-tier Farming

| ATV unbelievable. We have had five different incarnations over the years and every one of them has been spot on. However, more importantly, I feel safe riding my Kodiak on our tricky terrain. The position you ride a Yamaha is lower than others, I feel like I am in it rather than on it,” he says. The CVT gearbox on the Kodiak is a feature that he sees as both misunderstood and extremely beneficial to his work. “The ATV never runs away, the gearbox and brakes are brilliant going downhill and very intuitive to judge, I never wish I had a manual transmission. My latest model has diff lock which really helps on wet, uneven ground and even if I do get bogged down, I have a winch and the ATV is light enough for me to lift it,” he says. This confidence sees him traverse hillsides that most would consider impassable. He is even happy to pull trailers and implements on the steepest slopes where needed. “I have trailers for stock and can easily carry four ewes with lambs. I also cart small square bales to sheep on the hills, pull a chain harrow over grazing land, use a bracken bruiser, and the Kodiak will even pull a roller to flatten out the pitches on our campsite,” he says. Working with the Woodland Trust, the family is planning to plant 250 acres of trees on allotment land which has historically been tricky to graze. “We suffer with ticks on some land, and it is better to keep the flock away. Planting trees will have significant environmental benefits and will make better use of land that is less than ideal for grazing,” he says. With land up to three miles from the farmhouse and stretching from 800 to 3000 feet above sea level, Jonathan is rarely seen not on his ATV. “The sheep are hefted, but I still have to spend a lot of time moving between areas of the farm,

which makes it easy to clock up the miles. The Kodiak is a comfortable place to be and I find the suspension much better than anything else I have ridden,” he says. Whilst lamb prices have been good in recent years, Jonathan believes that hill farming needs to adapt to meet the wider demands that agriculture faces. “Conservation is an important part of our role as hill farmers and the flock helps us to maintain parts of the land. However, we also appreciate the growing demand to see projects that will help to offset carbon emissions which is why we have been supportive of the woodland project,” he says. The health of his flock is of paramount importance and with the Kodiak he is confident to cover the hillside and spend more time amongst the flock. “If I was on foot, I wouldn’t see any problems or be able to react anywhere near as quickly. I see an ATV as an essential tool for hill farmers, it’s like a Swiss army knife,” he says. He also has no doubt or reason to question the Kodiak, having never had to replace a part on any of his Yamaha ATVs. “We have a good service from Carrs and change the ATVs at 2-3 years when the warranty is up. Throughout the years, I have never had to replace any parts. I think my dad had to replace a fuel pump many years ago, but I haven’t even had to change brake pads or wheel bearings,” he says. Carrs Billington have always been able to supply a new model and he often benefits from extra accessories such as black alloy wheels and diff lock on his current, Special Edition model. “Resale values have been very good in recent years and have encouraged us to keep updating. I wouldn’t ride anything else out of choice,” he concludes. Farming

| ATV

TGB BLADE 520SL - TOP S

he TGB Blade 520 is a solid example of the attention to detail that TGB incorporates in its range of hardworking ATVs. The popular machine boasts a long list of essential features fitted as standard and, underlining its belief in the quality of the products, the UK distributor Dualways provides a confidenceinspiring five-year limited warranty on all its TGB models.

Whether tackling challenging terrain to reach a hard-to-get-to situation, making light work of daily chores around the farm, or hooking up with an implement for a spot of crop management, the Blade 520 is a valuable addition to any work environment. It is powered by TGB’s tried-andtested, high-torque, 503cc four-stroke, singlecylinder petrol engine, equipped with electronic fuel injection. The Blade produces 40hp in off-road specification and runs through a selectable two/ four-wheel drive. The TGB package includes a digital dash, front and rear racks, fully-adjustable front suspension, a Farming

winch, and a tow-bar with 850kg pulling capacity. It is homologated as T3, which means it can be registered for road use. The Blade 520SL EPS is available in grey. SRP: £6999.00 including VAT. Specification •

Bore & stroke; 92 X 75.6 mm

•

Capacity; 503c

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Clutch; Automatic -CVT

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Compression ratio; 10.2

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Cooling; Liquid-cooled

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Drive type; 2/4 wheel drive selectable

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Transmission type; V-belt CVT automatic

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Electric power steering; 520SL EPS

| ATV

SPEC AT A BARGAIN PRICE

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Electrical outlet connector; DC 12V 10A 120W

•

Overall height; 1502mm

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Engine type; 4-stroke single cylinder

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Overall length; 2120mm

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Final drive; Shaft

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Overall width; 1240mm

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Front/rear brakes; Disc

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Rear suspension; Swing arm

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Front/rear shock absorbers; Preload adjustable hydraulic

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Start type; Electric

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Tow hitch; Yes

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Front suspension; Fully adjustable •

Unbraked towing capacity; 850kg

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Fuel system; Electronic Fuel Injection •

Winch; Yes

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Fuel tank capacity; 18 litres

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Gearbox; Automatic

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Ground clearance; 305mm

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Max power; 40HP (off-road)

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Max torque; 46.1 NM

Warranty: 5-Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty For further information contact the UK distributor Dualways on 01623 708607 or visit www. dualways.com

Farming

| ATV

Take on any terrain with Kawasaki’s proven Mule Pro MX

hether it is working on the farm or transporting materials across construction sites, having the right equipment is essential. The Kawasaki Mule Pro MX delivers the rugged, reliable and adaptable attributes that will help you take on any terrain.

Designed to work hard, the robust Mule Pro MX. Powered by a torqueladen 700cc CVT singlecylinder engine, the Pro MX offers 32.8 kW {45 PS} / 6,000 rpm, guaranteeing a fun-to-drive vehicle that can easily hail cargo for work or weekend fun. The spacious cargo bed is able to carry up to 317 kgs 700 lbs, making chores or hauling gear a breeze. Measuring 2795mm long and For more information

Farming

1525mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2005mmthe Mule Pro MX is the perfect mid-sized vehicle, offering superb manoeuvrability and mobility that ensures it can negotiate the tightest of trails. To maximise comfort, the all-

terrain vehicle features double-wishbone suspension at the front and rear, enabling the Kawasaki to easily traverse obstacles and elevations with minimum Southam Agri. Services

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effect on the chassis. Of course, these workhorses are designed to be used throughout the year in all conditions. That is why the Pro MX is equipped with 25” tyres on 12” rims, guaranteeing fantastic off-road traction and ground clearance. Strong and reliable front and rear disc brakes provide effective braking, especially when combined with the Mule pro MX’s proven engine braking. While its performance is unmatched, Kawasaki has also focused on making the Mule pro MX model as accessible and user-friendly as possible. Coming equipped with doors as standard, users will be protected from mud and puddles, while a 5.3 litre

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storage bin underneath the passenger seat ensures that there is plenty of space to securely store all of your belongings. Bright digital instrumentation ensures you can always see essential information at a glance and the console also comes prepped for an accessory audio system. The multi-function display is built directly into the dash and features an array of insight, including: •

Driving mode (2WD/ 4WD) indicator

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Digital speedometer

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Digital fuel gauge

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Clock odometer

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Dual trip meters

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Hour meter

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Differential indicator lamp

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Check engine lamp

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Electric Power Steering warning lamp

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Water temperature warning lamp

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Seatbelt warning lamp

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Parking indicator lamp

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Reverse indicator lamp

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Neutral indicator lamp

The contoured bench seat complements the body and provides ample space and comfort for two adults at a time. Kawasaki’s high-grade Electric Power Steering (EPS) is speed-sensitive, providing users with light steering at low speeds and tightened steering at higher

speeds. It can also work to enhance rider comfort by acting as a damping system, reducing the bumps and kickbacks created as you go along bumpy terrain. Drivers are also able to set the position of the steering wheel to not only suit their preference but also to lift it out of the way when getting in and out of the vehicle. An electrically selectable 2WD/ 4WD and dual mode rear differential system ensures quick and simple changing to suit the changing terrain. Since its launch, the Kawasaki Mule Pro MX has established itself as one of the leaders in utility vehicles, used by farm workers, gamekeepers, construction workers and event workers across the globe. More information on the MULE pro MX can be found at www. kawasaki.co.uk

Delivering all the rugged, reliable and adaptable attributes that Kawasaki’s MULE utility vehicle brand is justifiably famous for, the Kawasaki MULE PRO-MX range relies not only on a torque laden 700cc CVT single-cylinder equipped engine but also benefits from the Shinari design philosophy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO FIND YOUR LOCAL KAWASAKI DEALER, VISIT WWW.KAWASAKI.CO.UK

Farming

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HiSun – make the smart move, and switch to electric he innovative range of HiSun lithium-ionpowered electric utility vehicles is designed to work just as hard, if not harder, than traditional fuel-powered machines. There are four models, 5 kW, 7.5 kW, 15 kW and a 4-seater 15 kW.

kW has all the power and torque to tackle the most challenging terrains. With the ability to climb steep slopes, the Sector 15 easily handles 30-degree plus inclines in forward and reverse. When the going gets tough, you can switch to selectable fourwheel drive with rear/front diff locks to tackle difficult terrain.

reliable worker going for up to 44* miles on a single charge. There is also a 49-volt dry cell battery model, the Vector E1. Producing 27 hp, the Vector E1 is powerful enough to go over the toughest terrain without all the noise of petrol-powered engines. Selectable 4-wheel drive, nitrogen-assisted independent suspension and four-wheel hydraulic brakes add to the Vector’s all-terrain credentials. All models have the option of the DFK fully enclosed cab kit that includes a glass windscreen with wash/ wipe, rear screen, metal roof, and lockable doors so that the UTVs can be customised depending on customer requirements.

The move to electric UTVs offers many benefits over petrolpowered machines. There is no compromise on power, with these latest lithium-ion UTVs providing all the power needed for use in tough, off-road conditions. They are free from harmful carbon emissions, which supports the shift to a virtually zero-carbon economy in the drive to tackle climate change and reduce global warming. These multi-functional, hardworking machines are ideal for applications in farming and agriculture. Due to their compact size, they are versatile and convenient for many farm chores that larger vehicles are not suited for; transporting feed to livestock in remote areas, hauling equipment, towing, ploughing and harrowing. The top-of-the-range Sector 15 Farming

The 4-seater version of the 15 kW UTV can transport up to four passengers, carry machinery and equipment and easily tow heavy loads. The lithium-ion technology batteries that power both models are designed for longer run times, and a single charge will keep the UTV working for a full day. Like its bigger brother, the Sector 7.5 kW is a reliable, everyday machine capable of tackling many tasks, whatever the weather. The open cargo bed will carry up to 280 kg/ 67 lbs, ideal for transporting everything from logs, hay, tools and equipment. The smallest of the lithium-ion powered models, the 5 kW UTV still has the power and torque to climb slopes over 30 degrees. The longer run times of the lithium-ion batteries will keep this

Choosing electric power offers huge savings in fuel costs, with an overnight charge costing around £1*. There is also the bonus of no road tax, as electric UTVs can be used both on and off-road. Electric UTVs are usually cheaper to service and maintain with no engine and fewer parts to service. The quiet electric motor is a key attribute making these machines ideal for driving near animals or in areas where noise must be kept to a minimum. An electric UTV has no gearbox, so acceleration is smoother, making for a more comfortable ride. HiSun vehicles are supported and distributed in the UK by Barrus Ltd. For more information visit www.barrus.co.uk, call 01869 363665, or email vehicle@barrus.co.uk *Figures quoted are intended as a guide only. Cost/mileage would be dependent on usage and conditions.

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E P Barrus Ltd appoints Graham Knox as new CEO

arrus today announced the appointment of Graham Knox as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive search process. Graham will replace Robert Muir, when he retires from Barrus at the end of December this year, after 33 successful years at Barrus.

Graham brings a huge amount of relevant experience to Barrus, having had a successful career in heavy trucks, industrial & marine engines and transmissions. Graham is a business leader with an excellent track record in a successful family owned business. Graham started his career as an engineer with a custom builder of trucks and buses. He moved from engineering through after sales service to sales, and then on to senior management positions in engineering companies. From 4 September Graham will be spending many weeks getting to know Barrus’ customers and teams, prior to starting a more office-based handover. There will be opportunities to meet Graham as he will be visiting the

Southampton International Boat Show; DSEI the defence show, at Excel; the Emergency Services Show at the NEC and the grounds care show, SALTEX at the NEC.

Graham said: “I am truly honoured and excited to be joining the team at Barrus. I want to express my gratitude to the board for entrusting me with this role and to Robert Muir for his remarkable 33 years of leadership with the company. Barrus has a rich history and a reputation for excellence in various industries, and I am eager to contribute my experience to develop the company further. Throughout my career journey I have gained a deep understanding of the intricacies of our industries. I am committed to building upon the strong foundations laid by my predecessors and to working closely with our dedicated teams to drive innovation, growth, and customer satisfaction. Over the next few months, I am looking forward to immersing myself in Barrus' operations, meeting our valued customers, getting to know the talented individuals who make this company

thrive. I am looking forward to having the time to get to know our customers and stakeholders. My goal is to ensure a seamless transition and to lead Barrus with the same dedication and passion that is the hallmark of the company. I believe in fostering collaboration, embracing innovation, and delivering results that exceed expectations. Together with the Barrus team, I am confident that we will continue to achieve new heights and create value for our customers, partners, and stakeholders.” Page 1E P Barrus Ltd Chairman, Tara Glen said: “We are delighted to welcome Graham as our new Chief Executive in January. Graham shares the Barrus ethos with a very relevant background of experiences and an excellent track record of delivery. He has strong strategic capabilities, proven operational effectiveness, and great understanding of the diverse areas that Barrus operates in. The Board looks forward to Graham building on the phenomenal leadership that Robert Muir has given the company. Robert will continue to lead Barrus until he retires at the end of December this year. With Graham joining us now we are able to manage an orderly handover and give Graham an opportunity to visit many of our customers before he takes over leadership responsibility”.

4 models available

Make the smart move -

switch to electric No Compromise on Power Zero Emissions Economical to Run Less Maintenance Quiet Operation Government Tax Incentive Available

Hall 7

#GoElectric Stand 7.700

HiSun - Supported by Barrus E. P. Barrus Ltd., Glen Way, Launton Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 4UR Farming Tel: 01869 363665 Email: vehicle@barrus.co.uk www.barrus.co.uk

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What’s on your UTV ‘wants’ list? alancing loads on front and rear racks, sitting astride a saddle, having no room for a passenger and being fully exposed to the elements – while the ordinary ATV also has its benefits, there are plenty of downsides to the ‘quad bike’ design. So the side-by-side utility vehicle (UTV) alternative, with its full load bed, conventional seating for more than just the driver, and either cab frame or full cab, offers many advantages. But with a number of machines on the market from which to choose, selecting the right UTV for farm use can be a difficult task. Separating out the models with design features clearly built to withstand the rigours of agriculture is a worthwhile exercise.

A diesel engine that offers both power and economy is a given on most lists of ‘wants’, saving trips to the fuel station for petrol and providing the torque needed to climb hills and clamber over tough going. With Kioti’s K9, the successor to the popular Mechron, a three-cylinder powerplant, built by the same manufacturer as the machine itself, provides efficiency and energy in equal measure, along with the reliability for which South Korean engineering has become synonymous. Minimal fuel stops are another prerequisite for any agricultural vehicle, and with 37 litres of diesel capacity, the K9 is capable of long days without refuelling. Surefooted traction and a decent turn of speed with a comfortable ride are also on the agricultural ‘wants’ list, and the K9 meets the bill here with a twin-range CVT transmission that provides smooth take-off and slow-down. There is also quickly-selectable 2/4wd and a locking rear diff, plus a helical spring/stabiliser arm suspension arrangement that cushions the driver/passengers and the load in rough going. And for smoother terrain, the K9’s top speed is a rapid 40km/hr (25mph). A UTV engine also needs to provide the guts to shift a full payload with ease,

and the K9 doesn’t disappoint here. The 1.0-litre powerplant produces 24hp, more than enough to shift the machine’s 0.5-tonne load capacity with ease, meaning it is competent and capable of handling typical agricultural loads of fencing stakes, spare parts, slug pellet bags and more. A urethane coating ensures long-term bed protection, while options include hydraulic tipping – mechanical tipping is standard. For additional items there’s an optional storage box under the hood. Of course, one of the most important features of a UTV is its ability to carry more than one person legally, safely and in comfort. The Kioti K9 features two full seats with an optional smaller mid-seat, all with safety belts. A full rollover frame with roof is standard, while options include a windscreen, halfdoors and, for maximum weather protection, a full cab package with heating. Full road lighting and mirrors are standard, as is front bull-bar protection to guard against the knocks and scrapes that are unavoidable in agriculture. A vehicle aimed at satisfying the demands of agricultural buyers needs to be universal in what it can carry, and to this end the K9 is available with a

• 3 cylinder 24 hp economical diesel engine • Room for 3 persons to sit comfortably • Various options cabin sun canopy etc • High ground clearance 31cm • Urethane coated load space for long lasting protection • Homologated for road use

Farming

| ATV wide range of rear fitments, such as a galvanised livestock canopy ideal for transporting lambs. There are also hitch hooks at both the rear and the front of the machine, making it possible to not only pull a variety of trailed implements, but also manoeuvre equipment around the yard. Meanwhile, on the options list is an external hydraulic outlet, for even greater versatility – powering a tipping trailer, for example. The K9 has a maximum towing load of 590kg, helping to more than double its carrying capacity. Stability and manoeuvrability are also essential factors for an agriculturallytargeted UTV. With a width of 1,590mm, the K9 can squeeze through tight door-, passage- and gateways, while ground clearance of 304mm ensures it rides over rough terrain with ease. For all their uses off-road, UTVs are often also called upon to travel on the

Think carefully about what’s on your ‘wants’ list before choosing a UTV, suggests Kioti. road between tasks in different fields, and for this, of course, road homologation is a must. With the Kioti K9, that’s not an issue, as the machine is fully homologated for road use. And like every machine on the farm, reliability is critical to ensure uninterrupted work. Kioti UK, which recently moved to brand new premises

in a central and accessible location close to Huntingdon, and has a dealer network of more than 80 outlets, now provides a full two years’ warranty for the K9, with unlimited hours. Along with a specification that more than matches agricultural needs, that’s another factor in favour of the K9 on many farmers’ UTV ‘wants’ lists.

Farming

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DRIVING THE CAMPING LIFESTYLE WITH ISUZU

he United Kingdom is witnessing a camping revolution. The market is growing at a staggering rate and more users are looking for the best ways to camp. According to recent statistics, vehicle camping has emerged as the most popular camping type in the UK, primarily due to its convenience and accessibility. The Isuzu D-Max Expedition Edition and AT35 Basecamp models are equipped with essential camping accessories that cater to the evergrowing camping community in the UK. Vehicle camping, a trend on the rise in the UK, is becoming a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts. Beginner-friendly camping offers simplicity and convenience. With the Isuzu D-Max Expedition Edition and AT35 Basecamp models designed with camping in mind, it is easier than ever for people to hit the road and enjoy the great outdoors. These vehicles are equipped to take on any camping adventure, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for campers across the country. In line with this camping craze, statistics reveal a significant surge in camping enthusiasts across the UK. Since 2020, the number of camping users has increased by an impressive 38%, jumping from 3.88 million to 5.36 million. This upward Farming

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trajectory has continued, with a 22% increase recorded since the previous year, going from 4.4 million in 2022. Experts project that this growth will persist, with the number of camping enthusiasts expected to reach a staggering 6.9 million by 2027. (1) Furthermore, the share of active paying customers within this burgeoning camping market segment has seen remarkable growth, increasing by 22% since 2022 and a whopping 36% since 2020. This trend highlights the increasing enthusiasm of and AT35 Basecamp are Isuzu UK’s answer to the camping market’s growing demand. Boosting its functionality, these outstanding models incorporate a range of premium ARB enhancements, such as a colourcoded canopy, easy-to-set-up rooftop tent, awning, refrigerator, and a versatile drawer set equipped with a fully functional kitchen unit, alongside other valuable additions. The AT35 Basecamp also features an addition of Arctic Trucks accessories, such as 35” off-road tyres and new wheels, extended wheel arches, custom grille, and cosmetic changes in the interior with AT35 campers to invest in high-quality camping gear and vehicles like the recently released Isuzu D-Max Expedition Edition. "We've witnessed an incredible surge in interest in camping, and the Isuzu D-Max Expedition Edition and AT35 Basecamp models have become the go-to vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure, off-road capability and convenience," says Alan Able, Managing Director of Isuzu UK. "Our commitment to providing top-notch vehicles designed for camping has resonated with the growing camping community in the UK." This sentiment is being further echoed in the world of outdoor adventure. Alan Hinkes, renowned English mountaineer, and Everest climber, commented on the convenience of the Isuzu D-Max AT35 Basecamp: “The hardtop is voluminous, and I was able to chuck in all of my gear. The drawer and cooking unit are also exceptionally tidy. It’s all quick to pack away too.” Summing up his endorsement, he described the vehicle by saying: “It’s a brilliant piece of kit.” The New-Look Isuzu D-Max Expedition Edition

branding. Maximising the ultimate off-road capability with the convenience of easy-to-use camping accessories fitted on make Expedition Edition and AT35 Basecamp the perfect vehicles for vehicle camping off the beaten track in the most remote locations. Sources: (1)Statista (2023) Camping - United Kingdom https://www.statista.com/outlook/mmo/traveltourism/camping/united-kingdom#analystopinion

Farming

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ia UK Limited is launching its latest range of autumn offers, including 4.9 per cent APR on most of its awardwinning electric cars. Offers run until 13 December and are available from all Kia’s UK dealer partners and online [1]. Drive Electric with Kia The Kia EV6, Niro EV and Soul EV are each available with 4.9 per cent APR and no minimum deposit [2]. These models also benefit from an enhanced Finance Deposit Contribution (FDC), ensuring customers get the best possible deal. Customers can save £500 on a new EV6, EV6 GT or Niro EV, or £1,500 on a Soul EV. Kia EV Loyalty Save £1,000 on a brand new fully electric car, including the EV6, Niro EV and Soul EV (excluding EV9), with Kia’s loyalty reward. The discount is

Farming

available for all existing customers with or without a trade in Kia car [3]. 12 months free Kia Charge Plus The EV6, Niro EV, Soul EV and the EV9 sevenseat electric SUV, all benefit from a complimentary 12-month subscription to Kia Charge Plus [1]. Voucher codes will be provided directly to new customers of these fully electric models following

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Ionity. Kia Charge Plus also waives the session fee, making electric motoring even more attractive. 7.9 per cent APR on all non-EV Kia models All Kia models, including HEV and PHEV vehicles but excluding fully electric cars, are available with 7.9 per cent APR and no minimum deposit [4]. Generous Finance Deposit Contributions

the registration of their vehicle. Exclusive to Kia customers, Kia Charge is designed to simplify public EV charging and offers seamless access to more than 575,000 connectors across the UK and Europe, as of October 2023. Kia Charge Plus provides a 15 per cent discount versus the standard Kia Charge Easy tariff across most networks, excluding bp pulse, Pod Point and

Kia’s generous FDCs ensure these offers are made even more appealing for both new and returning customers. Savings include £2,500 on a XCeed (petrol) or £2,000 on a XCeed PHEV. Customers can save £1,500 on a new Stonic, Soul EV, Ceed, Ceed Sportswagon, ProCeed, or Sportage (petrol and HEV). A £1,000 FDC saving can be had on a Picanto or Niro HEV. Finally, a £500 FDC saving is available for Niro PHEV, Niro EV, Sportage PHEV, Sorento (all grades and powertrains), or the fullyelectric EV6 and EV6 GT. Farming

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unro Vehicles (Munro), a manufacturer of all-electric 4x4s, and Scotland’s only volume production car company, has announced an equity crowdfunding round and revealed details of design and technical enhancements for its all-electric 4x4 Series-M Pick-Up and Series-M Truck models, driven by extensive field trials of, and customer feedback on, the Munro MK_1 pre-production model. Munro is launching its equity crowdfunding initiative with leading global online investment platform Seedrs between the 3rd and 31st of October. The investment funds raised will enable Munro to capitalise on considerable customer interest, deliver its first production vehicles, hire more people, scale its premises, and expand resources.

Farming

“We have already had significant interest from the investor community and are extending that offer further to entrepreneurs, private individuals, and customers. We want to give them the opportunity to become part of the Munro story and take advantage of the unique solution our products provide and the significant imminent legislationdriven market opportunity the brand is poised to leverage,” commented Munro CEO and CoFounder Russell Peterson. “Munro has paid reservations and sales agreements for eight pilot vehicles in 2023 and 221 production vehicles in 2024-2025. Our immediate priority is to deliver Series-M pilot vehicles to early-adopter customers to demonstrate our product-market fit. Our production spec deliveries will start mid-2024, and we plan to progressively ramp up production to 2,500 vehicles per year by 2027. So, with a full two-year order book for both the Series-M Pick-Up and the Series-M Truck, Munro’s Seedrs campaign

| Motors adjustable steering column with steering wheel controls, plus a raft of ergonomic enhancements that include improvement of the seat rake and height adjustment. A full suite of safety equipment, including airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction control, is now offered.

will offer compelling investment opportunities, expedite our growth plans and unlock scales of economy.” The Munro Series-M is a ground-breaking electricpowered, four-wheel-drive workhorse that combines the rugged reliability and repairability of a full-time 4x4 mechanical drivetrain with a stateof-the-art electric powertrain, ensuring zero tailpipe emissions. The vehicle is offered in ‘standard’ M170 170kW and ‘high-power’ M280 280kW guises and in Pick-Up and Truck configurations.

“We have introduced a more durable, longer-lasting LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack that provides a faster 30-minute, 130kW rapid charging time,” explained Munro CoFounder and Head of Powertrain Director Ross Anderson. “We have also significantly improved the thermal efficiency of the vehicle. Waste heat, scavenged from the drivetrain, can now be used to heat the cabin. Combined with more effective sound deadening measures, the Munro Series-M now makes for a more comfortable travelling experience, whether it is being driven on tarmac for a range of up to 200 miles or traversing the most challenging off-road terrain in the world that it was designed to conquer.” Designed, engineered, and proudly built in Great Britain, the Munro is a historically important

While the first, pre-production iteration of the Munro Series-M, referred to as the Munro MK_1, has already been successfully previewed to the media and customers, Munro has taken onboard feedback gained during extensive field trials in the Scottish Highlands and implemented numerous design and engineering upgrades. “Revisiting how some of the major components were packaged allowed us to enhance the aesthetic and technical aspects of the Munro Series-M Truck and Pick-Up,” explained Munro Head of Design, Ross Compton. “We have created an even more distinct design that builds upon the Munro name while introducing improvements to areas such as aerodynamic and cooling performance and efficiency.” The Munro Series-M now features a more streamlined and lighter front end, allowing greater forward visibility. The transition to superior body panelling now means that components can be more easily replaced, further bolstering the allelectric 4x4’s ability to provide a lifetime of service. At the rear, an ‘exoskeleton’ mounted on the hard top on Utility specification models enables easy mounting of equipment, an asset for those operating in sectors Munro is targeting, such as agriculture, construction, outdoor maintenance, disaster relief, rescue, mining, and defence. Responding to customer feedback on its early demonstrator vehicles, Munro has introduced an

vehicle, marking the first light vehicle to enter production in Scotland in over four decades. More than 250 pre-orders for both the Truck and Pick-Up models have been received, affirming that Munro's vehicles are precisely what the market needs, particularly in sectors such as mining, construction, utilities, agriculture, and defence, where radical solutions are required to enable operators to meet their decarbonisation targets. Munro is poised to seize the significant global market opportunity with the support of financial partners as the company nears completion of its first two production models. With Munro's commitment to innovation and clean-sheet design, the Series-M promises to be a game-changer in the world of electric workhorse vehicles.

Farming

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uzuki Motor Corporation will make the following exhibition at JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023 (organized by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association), which will be held at Tokyo Big Sight from 26 October to 5 November 2023.

neutrality including CBG business in India. The booth will also have a Suzuki accessories shop resembling a mini truck market using Super Carry mini truck, and introduce services for mobile shop business owners. Main Exhibits

The theme for the Suzuki booth is “Answers for Excitement throughout the World”. Along with the message of “Present to our customers with diverse

Automobiles eVX, Suzuki’s first global strategic EV

exterior has been evolved and the interior is revealed for the first time. Proposed as an EV that realizes true Suzuki SUV driving experience by further evolving the electronicallycontrolled 4x4 technologies. Overall Length 4,300mm x Width 1,800mm x Height 1,600mm Range: 500km eWX, mini wagon EV that stays close to people’s daily lives Concept model which is a crossover of fun and practical mini wagon unique to Suzuki, and futuristic EV. Expresses a buddy-like presence that supports people’s daily lives with clean and simple body shape of an EV, exterior that has a friendly character, and light and user-friendly cabin space that makes people feel at home. Overall Length 3,395mm x Width 1,475mm x Height 1,620mm Range: 230km

initiatives toward a carbon neutral future in mobility and services unique to Suzuki,” exhibition and stage of the booth will be set in ways visitors can feel the excitement. At the booth, we will make proposals for various mobility that stays close to people’s daily lives by bringing together technologies as a general mobility maker, starting with concept models of automobiles and motorcycles, as well as next-generation mobility and outboard motors. We will also introduce our multi-pathway initiatives toward carbon Farming

Showcased for the first time at the Auto Expo 2023 held in January 2023 in India, its

e EVERY CONCEPT, minicommercial BEV van that stays close to people’s daily works

| Motors of “Drive&Feel”.

Mini-commercial EV van, equipped with a BEV system, jointly developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation, Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., and Toyota Motor Corporation. Proposed as a model that contributes to the local society by not only realizing silent and powerful EV drive, but also supplying electricity from the vehicle in case of an emergency, while maintaining the userfriendliness of a minicommercial van. Overall Length 3,395mm x Width 1,475mm x Height 1,890mm Range: 200km

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With a shift from tangible consumption to experiential consumption, the Swift Concept not only provides “design” and “drive”, but also proposes new value of “have fun with car and daily lives”.

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Equipped with a host of advanced safety technologies including DSBSII*1 collision mitigation braking, AHS*2, and DMS*3.

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High-efficiency engine strikes a balance between driving performance and fuel efficiency.

colors daily lives, and Spacia Custom Concept is designed for “elegance” and “gorgeousness”.

Flying car display (collaboration with SkyDrive Inc.) • In June 2023, Suzuki signed a basic agreement with SkyDrive Inc. regarding cooperation for the manufacturing of “flying cars”. In the future, we will utilize a plant owned by the Suzuki Group in Shizuoka Prefecture, and aim to start the manufacturing of "flying cars" around spring of 2024. Swift Concept •

Spacia Concept / Spacia Custom Concept •

Spacia is a minicar which has a unique styling and spacious cabin. This concept model is filled with our wish to “Make daily lives more fun, convenient, and comfortable!”.

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Rear seat comfortability is enhanced such as by equipping with “multi- use flap” in the front section of the seat cushion for the first time on a Suzuki vehicle.

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Spacia Concept is designed for “comfort” and “excitement” that uniquely

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Concept model to propose new value of the Swift which has been developed by always keeping the concept

In the booth we will display a 1/5 size scale model, and introduce the initiatives of the collaboration.

Farming

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he full-electric BYD ATTO 3 has been awarded a five-star rating by Green NCAP, Europe’s leading independent greenhouse assessment programme. The BYD ATTO 3, which debuted in Europe in 2022, performed to a high standard throughout the test process, illustrating its energy efficiency. Green NCAP is an independent initiative which promotes the development of cars which are clean, energy-efficient, and cause as little harm to the environment as possible. It aims to improve the quality of the air, minimise the use of resources used for passenger transportation and to reduce global warming.

Farming

The BYD ATTO 3 was assessed by Green NCAP engineers in a variety of test categories: low consumption and efficiency in cold and warm laboratory tests, highway cycle, and on-road tests. The highest Green NCAP standard is attributed to a car that maximises the reduction of its own pollutants and greenhouse gases and, at the same time, operates at minimised fossil fuel and/or electricity consumption under real-world conditions. Excellent result in cold ambient test According to the Green NCAP engineers, the BYD ATTO 3 achieved a perfect score of 10 points in the Clean Air section of the assessment. Additonally, BYD ATTO 3 demonstrated low consumption in both cold and warm laboratory

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tests with a rate of 18.0 kWh/100 km. BYD ATTO 3 pleasantly surprised the Green NCAP engineers with “unexpectedly low energy demands in the -7 ℃ cold ambient test, the result of the advanced heating concept utilising different sources of powertrain waste heat”. Efficient powertrain and heating concept As BYD ATTO 3 is purely electric, its greenhouse emissions originate only from electricity supply; around 50-80 g CO2/km depending on its test consumption. Thanks to its efficient powertrain and heating concept and the relatively low CO2-emmisions of the electricity mix, BYD ATTO 3 scores a high 9,7 out of 10,0. “Overall, the BYD ATTO 3 easily collects all 5 Green Stars and challenges

the popular EV brands in the European markets”, stated Green NCAP in its assessment report. BYD ATTO 3 benefits from its world-leading technology. BYD’s new generation e-Platform 3.0, comprises the world’s first mass-produced highly integrated 8-in-1 electric powertrain connecting all electric control units and management systems, and the rigorously tested ultra-safe Blade Battery. The BYD ATTO 3 has quickly become the bestselling NEV in multiple countries, such as Sweden, Israel, Singapore, New Zealand, Brazil, and Thailand. It has achieved an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP score and has been honoured with prestigious awards like the "VAB Electric Family Car of the Year of Belgium," and "2022 New Zealand Car of the Year", among others. Last month, the 500,000th BYD ATTO 3 rolled off the production line, achieving another significant milestone. BYD ATTO 3 Green NCAP Tests Result https://www.greenncap.com/wp-content/uploads/ datasheets/2023/byd-atto-3-2023-0145.pdf BYD ATTO 3 Life Cycle Assessment Fact Sheet https://www.greenncap.com/wp-content/uploads/ pre-lca/byd-atto-3-2023-0145_ LCA%20fact%20sheet.pdf BYD Image Bank https://www.byd.com/eu/image-bank Farming

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ia is bringing Plug&Charge to its electric vehicles in Europe. Plug&Charge will be available with the EV9 upon launch and will gradually be rolled out to future Kia electrified models1. This charging technology allows Kia customers to connect their EV with any Plug&Charge capable public charging station. There is no additional identification or intermediate step needed to start the charging process, as

authentication is fully automated. With the introduction of Plug&Charge to its EVs, Kia offers their customers the latest in fast, secure, and convenient charging technology. “Plug&Charge is a very convenient technology that offers decreased manual handling, resulting in a faster, smoother process for our customers,” says Sjoerd Knipping, Vice President of Marketing and Product at Kia Europe. “By offering our customers electric vehicles as Farming

well as the most advanced charging solutions, we’re smoothing the way for the switch to sustainable mobility, as well as proving ourselves to be serious contenders in the highly competitive EV market in Europe.” Fully automated, easy, and secure charging Plug&Charge is essentially an identification method built directly into the vehicle that allows the car to communicate

with Plug&Charge capable charging stations. The customer simply connects their vehicle with the charging station to automatically begin the charging process. The service has all bases covered in terms of security, as no additional steps are needed. Up to now, the customer first needed to verify their account at the charging point before initiating charging, which was usually done with either an RFID card or via mobile app like Kia Charge. The fully secure Plug&Charge

service utilises an automated exchange of digital certificates between car and charger, which identifies the customer’s account and associated charging contract with the driver’s Kia Charge account. The Hubject Plug&Charge ecosystem manages this exchange of certificates between Plug&Charge stakeholders: charging point operators (CPO), mobility operators (MO) and original equipment manufacturers (OEM). This communication conforms with the international standard ISO 15118. Plug&Charge will simplify the charging process, without negating the benefits of the Kia Charge app: its navigation function, realtime updates on charging fees and availability; and the ability to apply filter options such as plug type, charging speed, and access type inform EV drivers of available public EV charging infrastructure at speed. Using this seamless charging technology, the customer can simply disconnect their car once charging is complete and drive away, while the payment will be added to their monthly bill in accordance with the terms of their contract. “Together with our partners such as DCS (mobility provider), Hubject (Plug&Charge service provider), and several network partners like IONITY, we at Kia are using all available technology to improve customer experience” concluded Knipping. Plug&Charge joins Kia Connect and Kia Charge in Kia’s portfolio of advanced charging technologies.

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K car production fell -9.7% in August, following six consecutive months of growth, as 45,052 models rolled off factory lines, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Typically the smallest volume month of the year with often variable summer shutdowns which can lead to large percentage variations, August’s output was in part affected by extended production pauses at some plants for planned maintenance and upgrades as car makers gear up to produce the next generation of electric vehicles. Production for the domestic market declined by more than a quarter (-25.2%), while output for export fell by a less pronounced -5.5%, equivalent to 2,150 units. The decrease was driven largely by a decline in shipments to the US, China and Japan, down 58.6%, -24.5% and -37.8% respectively. The EU,

meanwhile, remained the UK’s biggest global market with almost six in 10 exports heading for the bloc (57.9%) – representing an 11.5 percentage point uplift in shipments from last year after volumes rose 17.8%.1 In the year to date, overall production continues its double digit gains, rising 11.8% to 571,671 units. Both home and export volumes are up in the first eight months of the year, by 2.5% and 14.4% respectively. Manufacturing of the latest and greenest vehicles continued to prove a bright spot, with a 14th consecutive monthly gain. August showed combined volumes of electrified vehicles rose, albeit modestly, by 2.8% to represent nearly two in five (36.6%) of all cars made, equivalent to 16,511 units. Since January, car makers have turned out 216,922 of these crucial vehicles, an uplift of 84,310 on the previous year, evidence of the UK’s capability to be a leader in zero emission production.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “After six straight months of growth, a decline in UK car output in what is always the smallest and most variable volume month is not a cause for concern. With car manufacturers taking advantage of the summer holiday season to upgrade their plants, this is part of an ongoing commitment to deliver the next generation of electric vehicles, with a record number of these models already being made. "To secure future investment, however, we need business certainty, not least a UK-EU agreement to delay tougher rules of origin that would damage the competitiveness of electric vehicles in both the European and British markets and concrete details from the UK government on the regulation compelling the sale of EVs in Britain. Both are due to commence in less than 100 days and are essential to business planning and investment for 2024 and beyond.”

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he decision to scale back the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car and light van sales sends completely the wrong message to industry and customers. The UK can and should be a global leader in zero emission mobility. Government needs to be strategically consistent and introducing greater levels of incentivisation to bolster consumer confidence, further promoting a burgeoning industry, not creating uncertainty by moving the goalposts. It is especially disappointing given the crucial role UK Government has played in promoting the development of electrification technology through the superb innovation infrastructure and funding made available by Innovate UK and

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the Advanced Propulsion Centre. As a result of the support received from these forward-thinking organisations, Watt Electric Vehicle Company has been able to expand its business over the last Neil Yates, CEO of Watt Electric Vehicles three years, rapidly accelerating the development of our lightweight Many forward-thinking public zero emission platform and private sector organisations technologies. have firmly committed to decarbonising their fleets. We Since the 2030 ban was will continue to support the announced three years ago, delivery of their corporate ESG vehicle manufacturers, objectives with our circular electrification technology economy-focused philosophy suppliers and fleet operators and groundbreaking eCV1 light have been working towards the commercial vehicle, which same targets, which has delivers significant technical, provided the direction and clarity environmental and financial needed to keep the UK on track benefits. for net zero.

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aking care of your tyres keeps you safer on the road and saves money on your motoring, according to breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist. As Tyre safety month gets under way, GEM is encouraging drivers to make regular checks of tyre pressures, tread and overall condition to ensure they do the best possible job.

GEM is as usual supporting Tyre Safety Month, which runs nationwide until 31 October 2023.

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Anyone unsure about how to check tyres should check out the short videos published by GEM. They demonstrate how simple a task it is to make sure your tyres are in good condition and advise on what to do if you come up against any problems.

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There are heavy penalties for drivers using worn or defective tyres on their cars. Each bald or defective tyre carries a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points.

GEM’s tyre safety checklist •

Use an accurate gauge to check that the air pressure is at recommended settings. If you don’t know the correct pressures for your own car’s tyres, you can check easily by putting your registration number into the TyreSafe pressure calculator.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth explains: “Tyres provide the only contact between your vehicle and the road. That’s why correctly inflated tyres with good levels of tread ensure all the other safety systems can function effectively. “In a sudden emergency this could be significant in determining the outcome and protecting those involved. “Under-inflated tyres reduce your vehicle’s ability to grip the road, and also compromise handling. This can result in unpredictable vehicle behaviour, and increases the risk of a tyre blowout, where sudden rapid deflation occurs. “On the other hand, over-inflated tyres have a smaller contact area with the road, leading to increased stopping distance and reduced grip. There’s likely to be a lot more wear across the central part of the tyre, leading to a shorter lifespan. “So please take a few moments to check your tyre pressures, condition and tread depth.”

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Check to ensure your tyres are in good condition. Lumps, bulges, cuts or cracks indicate damage to a tyre - and increase the risk of a blowout.

Keep up to date with GEM Motoring Assist at:

Ensure tread depth is above the minimum legal limit of 1.6mm. If you don’t have a gauge, use a 20p coin as a guide to how close your tread is to the limit.

Instagram: @gem_ motoringassist

Twitter: @motoringassist Facebook: @gemmotoringassist

LinkedIn: @gem-motoringassist-limited

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head of this year's highly anticipated 2023 Monaco Yacht Show, Everrati has revealed a groundbreaking project in collaboration with superyacht designers Bannenberg & Rowell and superyacht specialists Edmiston, in the form of an electric vehicle Shore Tender by Everrati.

Everrati, the leading technology company specialising in redefining and futureproofing automotive icons through the integration of cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, and its partners are setting a new standard for eco-conscious travel in the yachting industry, with a first-of-its-kind Shore Tender. The bespoke, iconic electric vehicle is designed to provide yacht owners with sustainable and zero-emission Farming

mobility at any destination they drop anchor. Through a highly detailed collaborative process with Bannenberg & Rowell and Edmiston, the redefined electric Defender, based on the classic Land Rover platform, has been specially designed with unique features providing transportation on shore in unparalleled style, comfort, and environmental responsibility. Designed to seamlessly integrate with yacht storage solutions, the Everrati Shore Tender can be effortlessly stowed on board, ensuring that it does not compromise valuable deck space. Customers can commission the ‘Shore Tender’ vehicle as a pair, allowing owners to share the adventure experience of driving two vehicles at awe-inspiring global destinations.

Equipped with a bespoke electric powertrain, the Shore Tender is expertly hand-built using OEMgrade components and manufacturing processes. Its impressive range, combined with regenerative braking, AC and DC fast charging capability, ensures that yacht owners can enjoy sustainable clean-air luxury without compromise wherever in the world. The interior of the Shore Tender is crafted with the utmost attention to detail and luxury, reflecting the high standards set by Everrati, Bannenberg & Rowell and Edmiston. It features custom champagne chiller in the bonnet bulge, contemporary upholstery, equipment and towel storage under its benches, a sailcloth roof awning, reclaimed ocean plastic floor panels, and removable doors and capstans. The exterior paintwork can be

| Motors shore but also exemplifies increased environmental responsibility in the world of luxury yachting.” Justin Lunny, CEO of Everrati, added: "We are thrilled to be partnering with Bannenberg & Rowell and Edmiston on this pioneering project. The Shore Tender is a testament to our commitment to sustainable mobility solutions that elevate the luxury experience. With this innovation, we aim to redefine how yacht owners explore the world, offering an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on style or performance." customised to match the mothership, and custom sailcloth duffel bags with embroidered yacht names and logos add a touch of individualised elegance. Dickie Bannenberg, co-founder of Bannenberg & Rowell, said: “Bannenberg & Rowell vehicle designs are quite rare beasts – as they should be after the extremely exclusive Jensen Interceptor (Office Version) designed by Jon Bannenberg in the 1970s. We are really pleased to be teaming up with Everrati and Edmiston on the Shore Tender project. B&R have been spearheading the creation of a Designers’ Protocol on sustainability for widespread adoption in the yacht design industry. The Shore Tender is driving silently into view at precisely the right time.”

Edmiston Strategy Director, said: “Edmiston has always been a driver of innovation and change, and this partnership is another example. Working with leading British brands like Bannenberg & Rowell and Everrati is always a fabulous opportunity for us. This first-of-its-kind Shore Tender vehicle is a game-changer for owners seeking to elevate their superyacht experience. The project has redefined the interaction from sea to land with a vehicle that not only provides a joyous zero-emission solution on

This innovative project sees Everrati providing a solution beyond traditional automotive ownership to a whole new sector in the superyachting industry. The Everrati and Edmiston Shore Tender merges sustainable luxury and zeroemission travel, with a bespoke, high-end vehicle for yacht owner lifestyles. Pricing for the Shore Tender is upon application and subject to a detailed commissioning consultation. The Land Rover Shore Tender adds to Everrati’s growing portfolio of redefined automotive icons, which includes electric versions of the Porsche 911 (964) Coupe, Targa, Cabriolet, Range Rover Classic, Land Rover Defender, Land Rover Series, GT40, and Mercedes-Benz W113 SL ‘Pagoda’.

Alex Holden,

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he first series production Grenadier 4X4s for North America have started rolling off INEOS Automotive’s production line in Hambach, France. The first US-bound Grenadier – a Belstaff Fieldmaster edition in Scottish White – emerged from the end-of-line Quality Inspection bay yesterday.

More than 7,000 orders have already been placed for the Grenadier in the USA, making it INEOS Automotive’s largest market, with first customer deliveries due to start in November for USA and January 2024 for Canadian buyers. INEOS Automotive acquired the manufacturing facility at Hambach from Mercedes-Benz in January 2021 and has subsequently invested over €50m with the Grenadier line now including a new semi-automated paintshop, a new fully-automated bodyshop, and a new quality centre.

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“The start of production for North American vehicles is a significant moment for INEOS Automotive, and for Hambach plant in particular,” says Lynn Calder, CEO INEOS Automotive. “We have been ramping up the production rate over the last six months to ensure we can deliver to customers as quickly as possible, while maintaining the world-class quality standards we set for ourselves. With the addition of North America, Hambach is now

producing for export to five continents. The Grenadier is truly a car for the world.” Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, INEOS Automotive’s North American team will soon announce its first wave of appointed dealers. The North American retail and service network will join a global footprint for INEOS Automotive across more than 40 markets, with customer deliveries having already started in 20. Greg Clark, Executive Vice President Americas for INEOS Automotive, said, “We have spent a

long time selecting an exceptional team of experienced dealers and are excited that we will soon be able to announce them and begin guiding the Grenadier station wagons home for our customers.” About Grenadier The backbone of the Grenadier is a full box-section ladder frame chassis, with heavy-duty solid beam axles, a two-speed transfer case and up to three locking differentials. It is powered by a choice of BMW 3.0litre turbo-charged inline six-cylinder petrol or diesel engines (petrol only for North America), which have been extensively revised and recalibrated for this application. Practical features include a 70:30 split rear door, integrated roof bars, pre-wiring for auxiliary lamps and accessories, and a front bumper, fenders and hood to sit on. An ‘opensource’ approach to accessories means owners can tailor the vehicle to their specific requirements. The interior combines versatility and practicality with the latest technology and exceptional comfort. Its intuitive and functional layout features physical switches that are widely spaced for easy use on the move. A central infotainment screen gives intuitive access to a range of information displays and settings menus. An overhead console provides controls and switches for off-road and auxiliary functions. Hose-out rubber flooring, Recaro seats – available in hard-wearing cloth or leather – and numerous stowage options mean the Grenadier is ready for anything work and life can throw at it.

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his October could be the perfect time to show your tyres some love as Tyre Safety Month gets under way. And the campaign organised by charity TyreSafe, the UK’s leading authority on tyre safety, has the full support of national breakdown provider Start Rescue and its hundreds of vehicle recovery professionals working across the UK.

showed a small increase.

“Checking your tyres for the correct pressure, tread and condition means you can avoid being stuck at the side of the road this autumn and far more importantly, you’ll be keeping yourself and other road users safe,” comments Start Rescue’s Managing Director Lee Puffett.

• Correctly inflate tyres according to car’s handbook

Start Rescue’s UK headquarters, which tracks the causes of breakdowns, shows that tyre-related incidents remain the second most common cause for UK call-outs. Between January and August 2022, the total was 17% and during the same period in 2023 the figures

“These figures remain stubbornly high and it’s why we strongly support Tyre Safety Month,” added Lee Puffett. “Achieving greater awareness about simple, vital checks which we can all do is key.”

Looking out for your tyres • Check tyres every two weeks

• Uneven wear indicates incorrect inflation • Use a 20p coin to check tread depth – with the coin stood in the tread groove you should not be able to see the coin’s outer band • Minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s safer to replace tyres at 3mm wear depth • Check age stamp on side wall and replace older tyres even if they have plenty of tread

• Ask a tyre specialist for advice if you’re unsure Start Rescue has a 4.4star rating on Trustpilot, a five-star Defaqto* rating and has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for four years running. Start Rescue also has a 97% recommendation rate from customers helped at the roadside. Launched in 2009, Start Rescue is an integral part of the nation’s fourth largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which now has more than two million UK customers. For further breakdown advice, please visit startrescue.co.uk. TyreSafe is the UK’s leading authority on tyre safety. Its aim is to reduce the number of tyre-related incidents on Britain’s roads by raising awareness of tyre maintenance and the dangers of defective and illegal tyres: www. tyresafe.org

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JEFFRIES OF BACTON

STARTIN TRACTORS

CULVERWELL CARS

DUCKWORTH ISUZU

Stowmarket, Suffolk JEFFRIESOFBACTON-ISUZU.CO.UK 01449 781 131

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Ashby Road, Twycross STARTINTRACTORS-ISUZU.CO.UK 01827 880 088

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Station Lane, York YORKVANCENTRE-ISUZU.CO.UK 01904 470 170

London Road, Boston DUCKWORTH.CO.UK/ISUZU 01205 725 700

All fuel consumption and emission values are based on the new WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle which uses real-world driving data. Official fuel economy for the standard Isuzu D-Max range in MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1–27.6 (10.2–11.2). Mid 31.4–36.4 (7.8–9.0). High 36.0–39.4 (7.2–7.8). Extra-High 29.0–30.8 (9.2–9.7). Combined 30.7–33.6 (8.4–9.2). CO2 emissions 220–241 g/km. Visit Isuzu.co.uk or contact your local Isuzu dealership for more information.