Landscape & Amenity Product Update August 2023

More than 2,000 sites to fly Green Flag Award

• Highgate Wood – City of London

They are joined by parks and green spaces as diverse as:

• Rainbow Gardens, managed by Doncaster and Bassetlaw NHS Trust in England

• Chirk Station, Wrexham (the first station in the UK) in Wales

• Zetland Park, Falkirk in Scotland

• Mayfield Park, managed by Southampton City Council, in England

In addition, 135 of the winners have also received a Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the management of historic features, supported in England by Historic England. These include:

• Rivington Terrace Gardens managed by Rivington Heritage Trust with Groundwork

A record number of parks and green spaces across the UK have reached the high standards required to receive a coveted Green Flag Award in 2023.

The scheme is celebrating as 2,216 parks – the largest number since the scheme began 27 years ago – are proudly preparing to raise their flags.

The Green Flag Award, the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, has seen successful submissions from local authorities and other land managers across the country for a range of sites, from worldfamous city parks to small, local green spaces.Four parks that received their first Green Flag Award when the scheme was

launched in 1996 have flown it every year since.

They are:

• Cockington Country Park – Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust

• Worden Park – South Ribble Borough Council

• Queen’s Park – City of London

• St James’s Park and Green Park managed by The Royal Parks

Parks are a vitally important part of this country’s green infrastructure, providing opportunities to improve physical and mental health even in the most built-up urban environments.

Perennial experiences a steep increase in the need for its support

With Perennial’s impact on people’s lives revealed as greater than ever, the charity helping people in horticulture is calling for the industry to help sustain its community.

The charity’s 2022 Impact Report and recent figures show the pressing need for its services across the industry. 24,000 preventative services and activities were delivered last year, with 1,895 people and their families receiving direct personal support to improve their lives.

During the first half of 2023, Perennial provided services to 1,184 people, compared to 897 in the first half of 2022. This steep increase of 31% highlights the urgent need for increased support for Perennial’s work from the industry.

Perennial’s vision is for all those who work with plants, trees, flowers or grass to know about Perennial and how it can help.

The charity relies on and is grateful to those demonstrating a commitment to support the horticultural community and invest in its future.

Perennial’s Chief Executive Peter Newman says: “This report highlights our impact on thousands of lives in 2022 thanks in large measure to our generous supporters and volunteers. We help those facing challenging times as well as providing advice and guidance to prevent small issues from becoming big problems.

“We enable people to be more in control of their health, financial and social wellbeing. With dedicated online resources, tools and apps alongside our one-on-

It is estimated that active visits to parks in England result in £2billion of avoided costs of ill-health every year.

Keep Britain Tidy Chief Executive Allison OgdenNewton OBE said: “Our parks continue to provide a vital sanctuary for communities to play, grow and bond.

“The news that a record number of parks in the UK have achieved the Green Flag Award standard reflects the tireless work of those tasked with looking after these national assets.

“At Keep Britain Tidy, we’re very proud of the Green Flag Award - a crucial component in ensuring the continuing quality of our parks and green spaces, making sure they are managed to the highest standards and are safe and accessible.

“We believe it should be a minimum standard for every park – and that everyone, wherever they live, should have access to high-quality green space.”

Green Flag Award

Enquiry 1

one support services, we aim to offer something of benefit to everyone within the UK’s horticultural community and ask

the industry to show its support and help us spread the word.”

Perennial Enquiry 2

Welcome...

The announcement that a record number of sites have secured a coveted Green Flag Award is yet another significant reminder of just how important parks and green spaces have become once again across the whole of the UK. These vital assets are being recognised for their numerous benefits they provide for the wider communities they serve, something which has become all the more apparent in recent years.

It is also further ammunition in the on-going campaign to secure the level of long-term funding our parks and green spaces deserve from local and national government.

This month we feature our regular Play & Activity spotlight, taking a look at a sector which is at the forefront of providing the knowledge, expertise and specialist products and services to equip our parks and community spaces to support campaigns to improve the health, fitness and activity levels of people of all ages.

Several Play & Activity manufacturers will be on hand next month at the newcomer to the exhibition scene – GroundsFest – to showcase their specialist product portfolio.

We are also carrying a full preview of GroundsFest 2023 this month, with the new two-day event taking place at Stoneleigh in Warwickshire and promising something a little different for visitors. With a diverse range of exhibitors from right across the wider industry, outdoor demonstrations and indoor exhibition halls, training workshops and a music festival, it will be interesting to see how visitors respond to the new event.

Elsewhere in this month’s issue, we have a variety of features, from Compact Tractors and Hedge & Verge Mowers to Ride-on Mowers. The team from TSP Media will be at GroundsFest next month and we hope to catch up with many of you during the two days. In the meantime, enjoy the rest of the summer.

Paul

Groves,

Editor

Grosvenor House, Central Park, Telford, TF2 9TW T: 01952 234000 E: info@tspmedia.co.uk

Landscape & Amenity has an ABC audited circulation

HEAD OF LANDSCAPE DIVISION

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Martyn Smith martyn@tspmedia.co.uk

EDITOR

Paul Groves paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

Kellie Wake kellie@tspmedia.co.uk

DESIGN & ARTWORK

Laura Barton laura@tspmedia.co.uk

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Becki Everitt becki@tspmedia.co.uk

Terms and Conditions -

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all articles and information appearing in Landscape & Amenity Product Update, the publisher does not accept liability for errors and omissions, printing or otherwise, that may appear in this publication. The journal includes photographs provided and paid for by suppliers. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or any retrieval system without the consent of the publisher.

GMA Industry Awards receives backing of the sector as sponsors announced

With nominations and entries within a month of closing, the GMA is delighted to announce confirmed sponsors of the 2023 Industry Awards.

With support spanning the entire sector, sponsors range from leading sporting bodies to businesses within the groundscare industry.

ISEKI UK & Ireland has shown its commitment to recognising industry talent and supporting the sector by becoming this year’s Platinum Sponsor, in addition to sponsoring the Independent School Grounds Team of the Year award. Alongside ISEKI, other industry businesses sponsoring awards include:

Infinicut - Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team of the Year

DLF Seeds – GMA Grounds Manager of the Year

Origin Amenity SolutionsYoung Groundsperson of the Year

SGL - Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Elite)

Agronomic Services LtdProfessional Rugby League Grounds Team of the Year.

Sarah Cunningham, Director of Commercial and Events of Grounds Management Association said: “The GMA Industry Awards is one of the highlights of our calendar and we’re delighted to have received such positive support from across the industry. The event is created by the industry to celebrate the achievements of the industry, and it’s great to have leading organisations from the sector supporting the event.

“We’re particularly looking forward to the evening being hosted at Headingley Stadium

Etesia keeps Higher Wiscombe beautiful

A new Etesia Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter is helping the luxurious Higher Wiscombe farm and holiday cottages live up to its glowing reputation.

Higher Wiscombe is a 52-acre farm with a cluster of four exceptional holiday cottages in its centre. It is located in the heart of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is close to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and the South West Coast Path.

Alistair and Lorna Handyside are the owners of Higher Wiscombe and they work tirelessly to maintain their award-winning five-star gold cottages. Alistair has recently purchased a new Etesia Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter and his decision to purchase it was based on the success of his previous mower, which also happened to be an Etesia.

“We bought a third hand Etesia sixteen years ago and it’s always been so reliable,” said Alistair. “It was mainly due to it being so good that I wanted to keep

with Etesia and the Attila 98X absolutely appealed for the amount of work that we have to do every week.”

Etesia’s Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter is reliable, efficient, comfortable, and safe. The output, combined with 4-wheeldrive and performance makes it ideal for some of the toughest jobs. The 98X has a 98cm cutting width for more efficient working while eight cutting heights are available between 50mm to 120mm, with one transport position, which is easily adjusted with a centralised lever.

It can be used on slopes up to 30% and its strengthened structure welded tubular chassis offers its operators a better driving position. Furthermore, the electric start offers a high comfort level, rack and pinion steering, plus hydrostatic drive. Special attention has also been paid to sound and vibration levels to reduce them to a very low level – making it ideal for public areas.

Etesia Enquiry 6

for the first time and are eager to welcome guests to a ceremony of celebration in the surroundings of such a historic sporting venue.”

Premier League, Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League and England & Wales Cricket Board are amongst the National Governing Bodies who are keen to show their appreciation for the industry’s valuable contribution to sport by sponsoring awards for their respective sports.

Jason Booth, Chief Operating Officer at Grounds Management Association said: “To have sporting National Governing Bodies support the GMA Industry Awards this way is testament to the vital role grounds staff play in making sport possible and the importance of celebrating their work. As an organization, the

GMA are determined to provide a platform to recognise the grounds care industry and the fantastic examples of work from volunteers to professionals.”

The GMA Industry Awards were created to celebrate excellence within the grounds care industry and in a year of expanded categories, there is now also the opportunity to nominate someone deserving as well as the chance for hopefuls to enter themselves.

The ceremony, which is set to take place on Wednesday 29th November, will be located at Headingley Stadium’s recently renovated events suite. A prime location for all-season sports, the stadium, which is home to Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire CCC, is a natural fit to host the prestigious ceremony.

Nominations and entries are still open for the GMA Industry awards with sixteen categories available. The last date for

nominations is 7th August, whilst entries are open until 14th August.

GMA Awards Enquiry 5

First speakers announced for HTA annual conference

Dennis ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

The grounds team at Bromsgrove School has chosen the Dennis ES-34R as its first ever batterypowered mower.

Richard Hare has been the Head Groundsperson at the prestigious Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire for nearly a decade. In his time at the school Richard has overseen many changes and has produced some truly wonderful sports pitches.

Richard is embarking on another exciting chapter at Bromsgrove School as he starts to explore the world of battery-powered equipment. Richard has already taken the first steps towards replacing all his petrol mowers with electric ones, and it all

started with a Dennis ES-34R rotary mower.

“We started by replacing our Dennis PRO 34R rotary mower for its electric equivalent – the ES-34R,” he explains. “I will say that I love the petrol PRO 34R’s –they are brilliant, but the ES-34R is on another level. “It is by far the best mower I have ever used.”

The ES-34R is a 34” (860mm) battery powered twin blade rotary mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology. It is ideal for fine turf mowing and cleaning up operations in stadia and training facilities. Utilising the contra rotating hardened steel blades and

low chute ensures maximum collection performance.

While allowing ground staff to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface, the E-Series range will also help meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimise carbon footprint, emissions, running costs, HAV’s and noise without any range anxiety.

Richard also revealed that the ES-34R is just the start of the Dennis electric evolution as he intends on switching his other PRO 34R, and his two G860 and two FT510 cylinder mowers to their electric equivalents.

A host of experts are set to examine the importance of horticulture in sustainable development and the green agenda at the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA) annual conference, sponsored by Glee on 5 October 2023 at the ICC in Birmingham.

One of this year’s keynote speakers is award-winning garden designer Manoj Malde. Highly creative, innovative and not afraid to push the boundaries, he recently got married at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the garden he designed, the RHS & Eastern Eye Garden of Unity, the first-ever wedding to take place at the event.

Manoj is an RHS Judge and their first ambassador for diversity and inclusivity and will share his insights on upcoming gardening trends.

Manoj said, “I am beyond excited to have been invited as a keynote speaker at the HTA Conference 2023. What an incredible honour.”

Widely known in the world of horticulture for his high energy and enthusiasm, plant expert, TV presenter and podcaster Michael Perry (better known as Mr Plant Geek) will be a lively and engaging host throughout the conference.

Michael said, “I’m very honoured to be hosting the upcoming HTA event, which will be packed with knowledge, focussed discussion, and tonnes of inspiration- and we really hope to give attendees some clear take-homes for their work within the industry. It should be an excellent day, I cannot wait!”

Horticulture, The Conference will explore key areas in which the sector is coming together

to grow a greener future, including urban green spaces, sustainability, the value of plants and careers in horticulture. A full programme and guest speakers will be announced during the coming weeks.

The conference provides a platform for delegates to network with industry peers, discuss key issues and innovations, and look at ways of working together as well as other opportunities. There will be a dinner for additional networking opportunities at which the 2023 Ornamental Grower of the Year Award will be presented.

Horticulture, The Conference takes place at The International Convention Centre, Birmingham. For more information and to book your place, visit: https://hta.org.uk/conference

HTA Enquiry 8

Quick-Brush and SP230 joins GKB ‘fleet for all seasons’

Having been put through their paces on more than 35 end of season pitch renovations, the combination of an Sandspreader and Quick-Brush from GKB Machines have emerged with high praise from contractors Marc Kerr Limited.

While the SP230 delivers large capacity for maximum efficiency, it’s the build quality that makes GKB Marc’s first port of call for machinery – with the topdresser and brush joining two GKB Sandfiller’s and a VStrong scarifier already on his fleet.

Marc has been offering contracting and finishing services to facilities across the North East for the last 16 years, and while the majority of his workload is comprised of fi ne turf maintenance, the last few years has seen more enquiries from sports turf facilities –

leading Marc to review his equipment bank. “The topdresser we had was starting to struggle with age-related failures, many of which were electrical and therefore expensive to repair” explains Marc.

“In replacing this, I wanted something large enough to give me a time efficient and effective solution for football, but something the remained light enough and flexible for work on the golf course.”

The SP230 offers a 2.3m3 capacity and sits in the middle of the models offered in the GKB Sandspreader range. Four balloon tyres evenly distribute ground pressure, while the hydraulically-driven belts and discs eliminate the need to hook up to a power supply.

“It’s a very intuitive machine, simple to set-up and easy to

adjust for different materials and different surfaces. The fact it’s hydraulic also improves reliability and makes it less expensive to run.”

Delivered alongside the SP230 in May 2022 was a GKB Quick-Brush. “This is a great complimentary tool which Tom Shinkins recommended for incorporating the sand or seed down into the ground quickly. It’s proven to be a great addition to ensure we leave a clean finish and get maximum results in the ever-tighter football renovation windows.”

When football renovations are completed, the SP230 will then be utilised for autumn golf maintenance, with the hopper capacity reduced to suit ground conditions.

GKB Machines Enquiry 10

Dennis Enquiry 9

OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE. LONG ENGINE LIFE. ETHANOL FREE.

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The fuel has been optimised so petrol machines accelerate up to working speed even faster. It uses STIHL’s premium 2-stroke oil, HP Ultra, and has been formulated to provide better protection & lubrication for petrol engines.

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Beat the heat on site

Snickers Workwear

Summerwear - long-lasting, innovative fabrics for comfort, sustainability and longevity.

Clothes change as the seasons do. That’s why Snickers Workwear’s summer working clothes for professional tradesmen and women combine superior comfort and protection for beating the heat on site.

This summer’s LITEWork range combines all the features of high-performance sportswear. Its 37.5 ® Technology fabric technology is quick-drying and functional as well as providing UPF 40+sun protection. It’s also longer-lasting than other comparable workwear making it a sensible, sustainable choice.

There’s also new Trousers, Shirts, Shorts, and Jackets and High-Vis summer clothes with new styles and stretch features for enhanced freedom of movement, including trousers that feature the biobased Sorona ® fibre for a more sustainable fit on site.

Top dress with Turfco

Turfco turf maintenance equipment is ideal for natural turf management with a range of topdressing machines that can be tractor-mounted and towedbehind a suitable transport unit.

WideSpin 1550 topdressers are available in truck-mounted and tow-behind models with petrol engine or hydraulic power options. They are available with standard electronic control or a patented digital Smart

Controller, which provides rate calculation and programmable pre-sets for greater productivity and labour savings.

Save preferred applications into four programmable pre-sets, changing widths and rates on the fly, increasing productivity, eliminating guesswork and freeing up your time.

Turfco Enquiry 14

Ventrac versatility at college

Wellington College sits on a 410-acre site in Crowthorne, Berkshire, with a huge variety of habitats and landscapes, sports fields, a golf course, formal gardens, lakes, woodlands and heathland areas, all of which require completely different management techniques.

To assist with this complex management, Grounds and Gardens Manager, Mark Dodd, has purchased of a Ventrac package from his local dealer, RT Machinery Ltd. As well as the 4520 all-terrain compact tractor unit, the attachment package

includes a 72-inch Finishing deck, a Tough Cut deck and a Stump Grinder.

“We initially hired-in the machine with a Tough Cut deck to work on the banks clearing scrub on our 9-hole golf course, but quickly appreciated the opportunity the versatility of the machine could provide across the estate,” he said.

“Unfortunately for our Golf team, the machine is used almost exclusively by the Grounds team and that’s simple down to its versatility.

“The Finishing deck was initially purchased for use on our formal lawns, as it leaves a very pleasing strip and presentation is very important here at Wellington.

“The design of this machine has been well thought through; maintenance is easy and the mounting system allows for a quick and easy exchange of attachments. Add to this the responsive support from our dealer, RT Machinery, and we have a package that we are delighted with.”

Price Turfcare Enquiry 13

Makita’s limited edition Outdoor Adventure range

Power tool manufacturer Makita UK, is giving users the power to go anywhere with its new Outdoor Adventure range.

Featuring a distinctive olive green colour, the limited edition products are powered by Makita’s 18V LXT batteries, providing users with a complete system of cordless equipment to use at work, at home and the outdoors.

The new Outdoor Adventure products are part of Makita’s expanding 18V LXT System, and offer the same features, performance, and versatility that is synonymous with the cordless technology giant’s portfolio.

Ideal for leisure activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, or even

a simple picnic in the park, the line-up includes cooler/warmer boxes, an inflator and blower, as well as flashlights, fans, audio equipment, a kettle, coffee maker and more. There are even combi drills available in the new olive green livery for those who want something a little different.

Makita Enquiry 16

No hedge can stop you now

Battery hedge trimmers. Up for any task.

The upgraded battery-powered hedge trimmers from Husqvarna are up for any task – even overgrown hedges. New highperformance models complete the range, making it possible for you to experience new levels of efficiency, with less effort. And, for maximum freedom of movement, it’s fully cordless. So, charge up for the better, and visit husqvarna.com.

R1 and R9 from OAS overcomes challenges at bowling club

and the club the best chance of withstanding such traffic, Andy suggested a combination of R1 and R9 seed from the Rigby Taylor fine turf range. “We’ve used this combination for the last four years” Graham explains, “with R1 oversown on the full green, and then a mix of R1 and R9 used for additional strength on the heads.”

New ultrasonic Flow Sensor series

Rain Bird’s Flow Sensor technology is designed to both monitor and track water usage in an irrigation system, as well as identify and warn of any emerging problems.

By using a sensor to monitor high or low flow rates, issues such as leaks, line breaks or blockages can be identified. Detection of underflow means that a

landscape may not be getting enough water whilst on the other hand, detection of overflow may result in a flooded landscape and wastage.

Rain Bird’s new Ultrasonic Flow Sensor Series uses ultrasonic waves to sense flow rates. This not only enables the sensors to read a wider flow range, but also ensures significantly more

accurate readings when detecting flow rates. Flow data is sent in pulses to a Rain Bird central control or stand-alone controller. The series is compatible with the IQ4 platforms, ESP- LXD, LXME2 PRO, LXMEF, ESP-ME3 and LXIVM controllers. When used in combination with LX Series controllers, additional Flo-Watch and Flo-Manager management features can also be used. Pairing with Rain Bird’s Mobile App for iPhone or Android, gives the contractor or end user convenient control of flow settings from any location.

Where most bowling greens benefit from the flexibility of changing heads to spread the wear, the small green at Errol Bowling Club in Perth offers Greenkeeper Graham Craig no such luxury.

It’s down to the resilience and recovery of R1 and R9 seed mixtures from Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS), that despite the high wear and challenges of long dry spells of weather that the green is looking and playing better than ever.

OAS brings together four leading industry names - Rigby Taylor, Headland Amenity, Symbio and TurfKeeper. The group benefits from Rigby Taylor’s market-leading ‘R’ Range grass seed being added to their portfolio.

On his retirement from running his own thatching supply business, Graham took on the role of Greenkeeper seven years ago – at which time the decision was also made to bring more of the green maintenance in-house.

“While the two jobs may appear contrasting, there were some principles of working with the water reed grasses that I could apply to operations here at the club, and when I needed advice on things, I called upon contacts such as Andy Menmuir from OAS who has helped me a great deal over the years to tackle the challenges of our high wear surface.”

The green, at just 1000m2, is tasked with hosting friendlies and league games so to give Graham

R9 is a fast-establishing, 100% ultra-fine perennial ryegrass blend of four dwarf PRG cultivars – hard wearing, with fineness of leaf, high shoot density and a tolerance for close mowing making it ideal for fine turf applications.

“I apply R9 to the heads, oversown into core holes and then dressed which gives us outstanding establishment and germination. The initial burst of growth shoots up like a forest of fir trees and is brilliant for filling in any bare areas. Longer term, it stands up well to the wear.”

Origin Amenity Solutions Enquiry 18

Playability impresses at John O’Gaunt

The Course Manager and Head Greenkeeper at the John O’Gaunt Golf Club in Bedfordshire believe that Attraxor plant growth regulator has played a major part in all the positive feedback they have received this year.

Nigel Broadwith is now in his 15th year as the Course Manager and while he admits to being very much hands-on, he still spends most of his time focussing on improving the playing characteristics of the two courses.

Nigel values the input from his Head Greenkeeper Kevin Armstrong, and together they identified Attraxor as a product which could potentially signal some improvements.

“Poa annua seed heads are generally a problem in the UK and most courses suffer from them,” said Kevin.

“We are no exception, and we were having to verticut weekly, if not more, just to keep on top of them. Mike Williamson from Agrovista Amenity suggested that we try Attraxor and we started using it in March this year.”

Attraxor is a plant growth regulator containing the active substance, prohexadione calcium and can be used to regulate growth of all managed amenity turf.

This active substance inhibits the gibberellic acid pathway, which results in a reduction of

turf height and turf biomass. Root growth is promoted whilst turf colour and quality are maintained.

Furthermore, using an innovative formulation for fast leaf absorption, the product provides almost instant results, as it is activated once diluted in water. Contrary to other plant growth regulators that need to be activated by the plant enzymes, Attraxor can be used earlier or later in the season during cooler weather.

Attraxor can also be tank mixed with other products, something which Nigel and Kevin are particularly impressed with.

Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 21

Simple to set up, Ultrasonic Flow Sensors are available in 100, 150 and 200 versions for different flow rates and 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 inch BSP threads. LED lights indicating power, full pipe status, relative forward flow and reverse flow rates are included. The sensor can remain installed over the winter period.

Rain Bird Enquiry 19

Titans of the tine world

The word Titan is synonymous with great strength, and that’s precisely what Toro delivers with its Titan tines.

Built to last four times longer than a standard tine, the Titans of the tine world are only available through Reesink Turfcare, its branches and its approved dealer and service centre network.

Toro has created a tine to be reckoned with by combining a strong alloy with a unique heat treatment process and a long-lasting tungsten carbide blend tip.

Their design means they have an in-built resistance to

separation and breakage, which guarantees a longevity that’s unparalleled in the industry.

Engineered to fit the entire Toro ProCore range, choosing Toro Titan tines ensures

a perfect fit every time. There are over 150 tines to choose from within the Titan Tine range.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 20

Green-tech takes first delivery as Tubex recycling hub

Green-tech’s Trade Centre at Rabbit Hill Business Park was named as an Official Drop-off Hub for the Tubex Collection & Recycling Programme in June and took its first collection at the end of July.

The North York Moors National Park’s woodland team dropped off five dumpy bags of Tubex tree shelters to be recycled and repurposed, which adds up to around 2,000 shelters.

SCH helps carry the load

Plants and trees can be expensive to replace, and keeping them healthy is the passion and expertise of SCH Supplies.

As manufacturers of waterers, no one understands the importance of adequate hydration better. With capacities from 50 to 2000 litres, these watering units are typically towed behind a ride-on lawnmower or a small tractor,

but some can be pulled by hand. The SCH GWU Garden Watering Unit is a 270-litre waterer mounted on a single-axle chassis and is available in both petrol and electric. The benefits of an electric motor include its low noise output, which is essential for those that enjoy peace and quiet.

A suction refill unit can be fitted to petrol models to allow filling

from external sources such as ponds, lakes and tanks. This adaption must be requested at the time of ordering. Sticking to its roots, SCH Supplies Ltd follow old-school manufacturing techniques that demand a highly durable product that is simple to service and maintain.

SCH Supplies

Enquiry 22

Benefits of injecting Carbon Gold’s enriched biochar products with urban trees

breathes new life into them. Biochar’s porous structure fosters soil microorganisms and enhances water and nutrient retention.

Unlike traditional fertilisers, the Biochar Tree Soil Improver nurtures the soil ecosystem, promoting sustainable growth by improving root health and nutrient uptake.

Additionally, it mitigates climate change effects by locking carbon in the soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and boosting resilience against extreme weather events.

The North York Moors is one of the most wooded of England’s National Parks, boasting over 300 square kilometres of trees including oak, birch and rowan. The National Park Authority has also made a commitment to help tackle climate change and aid nature recovery through the creation of at least 2,500 hectares of additional wooded habitat by 2032.

With the Green-tech Trade Centre being one of 14 national hub locations, Tubex

customers are given plenty of options to get their old shelters recycled. Pickup collections are also on offer.

The Tubex team will now organise a pick-up of the shelters from the Green-tech Trade Centre, to be taken to a Tubex recycling plant. Once the shelters arrive there they are washed and shredded before being re-pelletised and used in the manufacturing of new products.

Green-tech Enquiry 23

Carbon Gold’s Biochar Tree

Soil Improver is a revolutionary and climate friendly solution for revitalising mature trees in urban landscapes.

As ancient sentinels face challenges like compacted soil and nutrient deficiencies, this unique blend of biochar, organic matter, and beneficial microbes

Embracing this cutting-edge product is vital for urban planners, municipalities,

and arborists to preserve and enhance older trees’ vitality. By investing in Carbon Gold’s Tree Soil Improver, it is making greener and healthier urban environments, fostering biodiversity, purifying the air, and enhancing community well-being.

Mature trees play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, and Carbon Gold’s Tree Soil Improver is a powerful ally in their preservation. Why not seize this opportunity to invest in a greener future and allow our older trees to thrive for generations to come.

Carbon Gold Enquiry 24

TURN OVER A NEW

LEAF

WITH BIOCHAR TREE SOIL IMPROVER FROM

OUTDOOR DEMOS

See it in action over 2 days

RETAIL AREA

Exclusive discounts for GroundsFest visitors

FREE EDUCATION

LANTRA approved practical sessions

MUSIC FESTIVAL Live DJs and bands

partnership with:

GROUNDSFEST 2023 SHOW PREVIEW

Get ready for GroundsFest

pedestrian mowers, ride-on mowers, handheld machinery, and the calibration and use of knapsack sprayers and boom sprayers. The sessions will be delivered by a fantastic team of Lantra approved instructors which includes Keith Kent, Martin Sampson, Chris Parry, and Steve Potter.

Free education and CPD points

GroundsFest’s CPD accredited educational seminars will provide advice, insight, and real solutions to the biggest issues the groundscare industry cares most about. This part of the event will present a real opportunity to enhance your knowledge on a variety of subjects and no matter what your position – from management to apprentice, there will be something for everyone.

Register and be in with a chance of winning a prize

There are multiple prizes of over £6,000 worth of battery powered equipment up for grabs. All you have to do is register. The prizes include Etesia and Pellenc pedestrian mowers and Pellenc telescopic and fixed-poled pole saws –all of which will allow you to work for a full day in an environmentally-friendly way.

Don’t worry if you have already registered – you will automatically get entered into the free draw which is taking place on the second day.

Free on-site parking and free shuttle buses

Stoneleigh Park has thousands of free on-site parking spaces. Free shuttle buses will also

The countdown is on and it’s time to get ready for the most anticipated event of the year. GroundsFest is set to be the largest, annual, free must-attend event for grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, gardeners, local authorities, estate managers and contractors.

Taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 20 – 21 September, here is a snapshot of what attendees can look forward to.

Hundreds of brands and demonstrations

Hundreds of brands will be on display, and you will be able to see a wide range of products in action.

If you want to dig it, move it, cut it, mow it, climb it, mulch it, or build it, it’s ALL at GroundsFest. The event will give you the

opportunity to not only see a wide range of machinery in action but get up close and personal with it. In addition to the outside areas there are two large indoor halls featuring exhibitor stands, a BAGMA Dealer Hub, catering outlets and seminar theatres.

GroundsFest will feature a wide range of exhibitors showcasing machinery, power, and hand tools; seeds, turf, aggregates, and treatments; landscaping materials; arboriculture, horticulture, and forestry products; playground equipment; irrigation and drainage equipment, and much, much more.

The Landscape Zone

An entire hall dedicated to all those involved in the planning, design,

and construction of outdoor environments in the landscaping sector. The Landscape Zone will spotlight the latest outdoor environment technologies, solutions and innovations and will be a must-attend event for landscape architects, local authority landscaping professionals, garden designers, landscape contractors, interior designers, facilities managers and many more. Some great speakers at the top of their game will also be taking to the stage in the Landscape Zone seminar theatres.

Practical training sessions

Carried out by Grounds Training, the programme will feature free hands-on, training sessions on a range of groundscare topics including line marking,

Retail area

The retail area will allow visitors to purchase a wide range of products, tools, clothing, and accessories at a discounted rate. There will be products suitable for budgets of all sizes and it will be a fantastic opportunity for visitors to walk away with some incredible bargains.

Live music festival

After an action-packed day at GroundsFest, unwind and continue networking with live music, and sumptuous street food. There will be a great selection of DJ’s and live bands taking to the stage and there will also be beer tents and drink stalls. The festival will start at 5pm on the first day of GroundsFest.

be available after the festival to take attendees back to their accommodation in Kenilworth, Leamington Spa and Coventry.

Accommodation and camping

There are lots of accommodation options nearby. Stoneleigh Park also has a dedicated area for camping, motorhomes, and caravans. If you are interested in this area, please contact the GroundsFest team through the website.

Register for free at groundsfest.com. You can also follow GroundsFest on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

GroundsFest

Enquiry 27

Electrifying Dennis E-Series on display

Dennis will be showcasing a wide-range of pedestrian batterypowered products on stand 50 in hall 2 at GroundsFest 2023.

Since its launch, the Dennis E-Series has taken the industry by storm standing out from the competition in terms of power, battery-range and performance.

Reliable and long lasting, the exciting Dennis E-Series is a range of battery powered mowers that are no compromise alternatives to its popular range of petrol machines.

Ultra-low noise, low vibration, user friendly and super low CO2 footprint, the new range of mowers are helping users towards the carbon neutral goal.

GroundsFest visitors can expect to see a selection of products in the E-Series range such as:

ES-860

Users of the Dennis G860 cylinder mower will no doubt see familiarities in the new ES-860.

This 34” battery powered turf management system delivers maximum versatility and the range of 13 interchangeable cassette options provide a solution to many day-to-day maintenance tasks.

The power of the battery system ensures the machine is capable of cutting at least 3-4 pitches on a single charge or verticutting a full pitch without anxiety. Furthermore, current G860 cassettes will also fit the ES-860.

ES-34R

The ES-34R rotary mower has twin contra rotating blades with the height of cut controlled by an easy to use ‘click’ system. Suction and blade speed can be adapted to meet the most challenging collection conditions.

Lloyds & Hunter looking forward to new event

The mower is also available with optional front wheels, smooth or wiele roller, and has excellent sight lines.

ES-36

Based on the Dennis Premier, the ES-36 provides a perfect finish every time and capable of cutting 2-3 pitches on a single charge.

The powerful battery system allows the addition of a trailer seat to be attached and still achieve a minimum of 20km of cutting. A uniquely developed micro adjuster makes it very easy to set the bottom blade to cylinder.

ES-510

This new mower is based on the Dennis FT510 – which is, historically, the company’s most popular machine.

With a choice of 12 interchangeable cassettes, the ES-510 is capable of scarifying down to -10mm.

Ideal for fine turf it has the power to cut 4-5 bowling greens or approximately 10km on a single charge.

ES-22 Ultra

Users of the Dennis Razor Ultra will be familiar with this machine, which features an ultrashort wheelbase for undulating surfaces.

Using a 7 or 11 bladed cutting cylinder and groomer reel, this 560mm (22”) battery mower produces a quality of cut which provides an ultra-fine finish on bowling greens, golf greens and tees, and cricket pitches.

It’s what’s underneath that counts.

ES-26

Easy to use, superb balance, control, and easy pull back for accurate alignment of next run are just some of the features of the ES-26. With a 26” cutting width, this mower is available with a standard front roller for maintaining fine turf sports surfaces such as golf greens and tees.

The E-Series features a robust LCD keypad screen which provides the operator with a multitude of information options including speed, clip rate, service checks, lifetime running reports and battery information. The mowers take just 2-3 hours for an ultra-fast full battery recharge.

Dennis Enquiry 29

Lloyds Mowers and Hunter Grinders are looking forward to attending GroundsFest 2023 and visitors can expect to see a variety of products on display from the two well-respected brands.

Lloyds has always manufactured and supplied products that deliver on performance while requiring minimum maintenance. The Paladin pedestrian mower is a classic example of a quality product that can stand alone and deliver the cut today as it has done, for many decades. Also on show will be the Lloyds Leda Gang Mowers.

Hunter Grinders is known worldwide in golf and stadia for their grinding performance on cutting cylinders and bottom blades. The company has steadily built up a reputation for supplying strong, accurate, precision grinders.

GroundsFest visitors can find Lloyds Mowers in the outdoor area on stand OSA170 and Hunter Grinders on stand 50 in Hall 2. Company representatives will also be on hand throughout the event to talk about the products in more detail.

Lloyds Mowers Enquiry 30

The complete SISIS range on show

SISIS has announced that, for the first time ever at a trade event, it will be showcasing its entire range of products at GroundsFest, held at Stoneleigh Park on 20 and 21 September.

Since 1932 SISIS has designed and manufactured a wide range of professional groundcare equipment, ideal for the maintenance of sports turf, amenity turf and artificial playing surfaces.

Renowned for helping to create the perfect surface, it is used around the world at high profile stadia, top football, cricket, golf, and bowling clubs as well as local authorities, schools, colleges, and universities.

Mansfield Sand has pioneered the development and production of high quality sand-based products for over 170 years. We provide a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping and equestrian uses. These include stadium and training ground facilities, championship golf and world-class show jumping arenas.

Our core products include Fibresand Equestrian,

Rootzones, Top Dressings, Silica Sands, dried and moist, Industrial, Pavior and Foundry Sands, Asphalt Sand, Gravels, and Concrete Brick products.

The famous product range includes specialist tractormounted and pedestrian turf maintenance equipment that is suitable for natural and synthetic playing surfaces; a wide range of pedestrian scarifiers, rakes

and slitters which are praised for their effectiveness and durability; tractor-mounted scarifiers, brushes, fertiliser spreaders and seeders, and a selection of innovative hand tools.

There is also the SISIS Quadraplay multiple-purpose, single-pass maintenance system which incorporates a mounted frame for up to four implements such as grooming rakes, spikers, slitters, rollers and brushes.

The implements can be fitted to the mainframe in any order and can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired effect. They can also be raised out of use when not required.

SISIS boasts one of the strongest and widest portfolios on the market and visitors can see them all in the outdoor areas at GroundsFest on stand OSA170.

SISIS

Enquiry 32

Fibrelastic, Fibre Reinforced

Products and prizes from Etesia

Etesia UK will have a range of pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters and the awardwinning ET Lander electric utility vehicle on display at GroundsFest 2023.

In addition to the products, some lucky visitors will walk away with a section of prizes from the Etesia and Pellenc batterypowered range.

Etesia UK, located on stand

OSA150, are specialists in building high quality grass cutting machinery and are looking forward to exhibiting at the first ever GroundsFest.

The company is also participating in a GroundsFest registration giveaway which will see visitors land a range of prizes including the powerful Etesia Duocut battery-powered mower.

Every visitor who registers and attends will be in with a chance of winning.

In addition to the registration prize, Etesia UK will be showcasing a range of its most popular products including the Electric Bahia M2EL lithium and the ET Lander electric utility vehicle.

The new ET Lander models are now fully N1 homologation compliant meaning that they are fully road legal along with being able to be used off road.

They also feature lithium-ion batteries which ensures that the range of the ET Landers will extend to 100km and have a charger system compatible with a standard type 2EV car charger.

One hundred per cent electric, spacious, well-equipped and userfriendly, it is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the fully fitted two-seater cab or by remote control when outside the vehicle. With a length of just 3.72 meters, the ET Lander is very compact. Thanks to the power steering, the short turning radius of 4.40 meters and 360 ° visibility, it goes anywhere. The autonomy of the vehicle lasts for a full working day – without noise pollution, can transport loads of up to 940kgs and can also tow up to 750kgs.

The Etesia Bahia M2EL – the world’s first 100% electric professional ride-on-mower with grass collection, is powered by a 48V, 100Ah lithium battery. This enables users to get up to 4 hrs 30 mins of action before it needs recharging.

A pocket-size ride-on mower, just 0.82 m wide and 1.98 m long, the Etesia electric Bahia features an incredibly tight turning circle. It nips into every nook and cranny and can be easily transported. With its low centre of gravity, the Etesia electric Bahia’s 33/67 weight distribution on the front/rear axles

Aspen extend their

make it a highly stable mower that masterfully copes with slopes.

It is also highly economical – the electric Bahia’s running costs are £0.35 against £3.57 for the petrol version and there are the obvious reduced maintenance costs –such as no belt, no filters, and no engine oil.

Visitors to GroundsFest will get the chance to see these two products in action in a demonstration area in Ring B. As always, the company’s knowledgeable staff will be available throughout the two days at GroundsFest to advise and assist.

Following the success of their ‘Experience the Difference’ money-back promotion over the last 12 months, Aspen Fuel are delighted to announce an extension of the scheme for visitors attending GroundsFest this September.

This year sees Aspen celebrating 35 years as the pioneers of alkylate fuel – free from ethanol, benzene and other hazardous hydrocarbons making it a better choice for people, machinery and the environment.

Many grounds contractors, landscapers and arborists are already reaping the rewards of the improvements to their working environment by fuelling their petrol-engined

equipment with Aspen Fuel. Recommended by LANTRA, the cleaner burn of Aspen all-but eliminates the noxious fumes and infamous ‘blue haze’ traditionally experienced with unleaded fuel from the pump, not only improving the health and well-being of the operator but also those in the immediate environment.

Visitors to outside stand 350 can find out more about the ‘Experience the Difference’ trial, which enables businesses to use the 2 and 4-stroke fuel risk-free in their own working environments and return the unused fuel if they change their mind for a refund of the cost difference.

Etesia Enquiry 33

Engineered and designed for professional landscapers

Launch of new shop and line marking packs

Regal Paints Ltd is launching their new shop and brand at Groundfest.

The Paint Cave (www. thepaintcave.com) is the new home of line marking brand, Regal Expoline, and all the industrial and decorative products, which have been made by Regal Paints for over thirty years.

“We wanted to bring every one of our products under one roof,” Managing Director Andrew Adkins explained, “everything will be in the new virtual shop which we hope will make it easier to source all your paint needs in one place.”

Customers of Regal Expoline may not realise that the company not only produces grass marking liquids from their new site in Nottinghamshire, but products for all paint requirements, including stadiums, farm and estate buildings, club houses, offices, car parks and even your clay pigeons.

Andrew, the master paint creator at this family business, also revealed that in addition to the new shop, Regal Expoline will be launching a new way of packaging and sizing for the line marking products, making it even better for the environment, transporting across sites and for storage.

Regal Paints Ltd Enquiry 39

A game-changer in every way, Kress is leading the charge with a breakthrough innovation in battery-powered technology, built to deliver the performance and power of petrol.

For decades, petrol-powered gardening and landscape equipment has been a reliable choice for commercial use, due to most battery-powered equipment being incapable of matching or surpassing the benefits of their petrol counterparts.

This is coupled with the fact that innovation in battery technology has remained slow in meeting the dynamic and ever-growing demands of professional gardeners. Tackling the current limitations of battery

head-on, with a ground-breaking opportunity, Kress is taking the transformation from petrol to battery to the next level, creating a stronger, faster, quieter, more affordable option, that is specifically designed to meet the demanding needs of commercial landscapers and is set to drive battery-power technology forward to a brighter, more efficient future.

The new commercial Kress 8-minute Cybersystem battery platform has been engineered to have the fastest re-charge of any commercial battery system available, has twice the power output of standard lithiumion batteries and has been developed with heavy-duty use in mind. It is battery-power as

we have never seen it before. The Cybersystem battery platform was engineered and designed specifically to meet the demanding needs of commercial landscapers.

The system features both 4Ah and 11Ah battery packs with the ability to recharge each 60v battery pack to 100% charge in only 8 minutes, or 80% charge in 5 minutes - the fastest recharge of any commercial battery system available.

The Kress 8-minute Cybersystem is the first and only cordless battery power supply that will allow commercial landscapers to finally replace their expensive petrol equipment without sacrificing performance, power or runtime.

Machinery That’s Helping Turf Care Professionals Achieve Perfection

Campey supply market leading, innovative turf care machinery worldwide, we’re continually researching new techniques and refining existing practices.

This battery platform will power a full line of Kress professional outdoor equipment that includes commercial-grade backpack and handheld blowers, grass trimmers, edgers, chainsaws, and hedge trimmers as well as heavyduty walk-behind mowers.

Each Kress commercial-grade tool is designed and engineered for heavy-duty use with a higheffi ciency brushless motor and state-of-the-art features and performance.

There are no more excuses to keep operating noisy, high-cost petrol equipment or wasting time with cordless battery tools that won’t get the job done.

Kress Enquiry 37

EGO to preview new ProX range

EGO Power Plus, the leading battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist, has announced that visitors to this year’s GroundsFest; will get an exclusive preview of its newlook ProX range.

The new ProX range will launch in 2024, featuring break-through battery and charging technology and has been specifically designed to meet the demands of the professional user.

Vince Brauns, Group Product Manager at EGO, comments: “We are really excited to be attending the first ever GroundsFest with a preview of our new product launches for next year. People visiting our stand will get the opportunity to see our industryleading battery technology, which boasts excellent run times and performance.

“We have been able to evolve our battery and charging innovations to the point where users can work all day, every day, making our new ProX range the reliable and performance-driven fleet of tools that professional users need.”

On the stand, visitors will be able to take a spin on one of EGO’s ride-on mowers through an obstacle course and be in with a chance of winning a selection of EGO prizes.

Visitors of the show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire on the 20th and 21st of September can find EGO’s latest product offering on stand OSA630 (outside) and stand 25 (inside).

EGO Enquiry 40

Boost your surfaces with Mansfield Sand

Visitors to the Mansfield Sand stand (OSA260) at GroundsFest can expect to see a wide range of sand-based products that are vital to the overall health and performance of a sports pitch.

Mansfield Sand has pioneered the development and production of premium silica sand-based products for over 170 years. The company provides a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping, and equestrian uses. These include stadium and training ground facilities; championship golf courses and world class show jumping arenas.

The company’s leading experts will be on hand at GroundsFest to explain how some of the following products could make a difference to your sports turf projects.

Mansil Silica Sand Sports Range - Sourced from the company’s Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield where the Mansil range of Silica Sands is produced. These products are predominantly used in the construction and maintenance of a wide range of sports surfaces –from winter sports pitches, golf courses, bowling greens and all amenity turf areas.

Fibresand - A pure sand and polypropylene fibre reinforcement product that is particularly advantageous when grass cover has been reduced due to heavy usage and wear during the winter period. Incorporated into an upper sand soil rootzone and consolidated to provide a stable divot-free environment.

Fibre Reinforced Rootzone - A range of Fibre Reinforced Rootzones developed to obtain greater use from natural turf

surfaces whilst maintaining the high standards demanded by today’s sports industry and meeting the expectations of ground staff at all levels.

Mansfield Sand’s fibre reinforcement technology provides stability and durability to all sand dominated Rootzones allowing the pitch to remain free draining and consistent over the whole surface.

Sand Soil RootzonesMansfield Sand understands exactly what is needed to achieve the surface that turf managers require week-inweek-out and that is why their rootzones contain only the best quality materials to meet that demand. For renovation or construction, the company’s superior rootzone blend Mansil 40 Silica Sand with a quality screened topsoil, guarantees the perfect start.

Sand Compost RootzonesA range of premium quality sand organic material blends which are perfect for creating a rootzone where an organic rich material is required within the profi le, aiding in the retention of nutrients whilst providing increased drought resistance.

Top Dressing - Produced for the fi ne turf market, Mansfi eld Sand’s Soil Top Dressing is a manufactured homogenous product made from their own premium silica sands combined with top quality soils. All passed through a sterilising unit, over a 3mm screen to produce an easy to spread, stone and pebble free dressing.

Mansfield Sand can also produce bespoke dressing blends and combine soil amendments into any product.

Mansfield Sand Enquiry 41

Sustainable seeds and science showcased on the DLF stand

Seeds, science and samples-galore will be on show on the DLF stand at Grounds Fest, as the world’s largest seed breeder showcases their range of sustainable solutions from across the Masterline, MM and Johnsons Sports Seed brands.

Alongside leading cultivars for sports and amenity turf, stand OSA 481 will also display an array of colour with demonstration planters from the popular ProFlora and Colour Boost wildflower ranges.

With thoughts turning to autumn renovations, where speed of establishment is key, a big topic of discussion will be the benefits of DLF’s 4turf ® tetraploid technology - the larger seed and improved genetic vigour ensuring fast germination and establishment even as temperatures fall.

4turf® demonstrates increased tolerance to stresses such as cold, drought and salt, as well as improved resistance to disease, topping nearly all European disease trials with class-leading resistance to red thread, brown patch, fusarium and grey leaf spot. The all-round better sward quality makes them an ideal addition to cooler season overseeding delivering quality surfaces with lower input and labour costs.

4turf® is incorporated into a number of popular autumn mixtures for sports turf, including J 4Turf 50 and J 4Turf 100 from the Johnsons Sports Seed collection. Johnsons J Intense 50 is a new mixture for 2023 and includes 25% Fabian and 25% Tetragame tetraploid perennial ryegrass to create a high wear tolerant and quick establishing mixture ideal for golf tees and pathways.

Another focus will be wildflowers and the growing importance of considering these in land and amenity turf management, to provide all-important food and habitat for a wide variety of fauna. 17 different formulations make up DLF’s ProFlora native origin wildflower range, designed to add colour, biodiversity and interest to a range of different environments. For a high impact bold display, one could consider a mixture from the Colour Boost collection, combining both wildflower and garden flowering species.

The DLF technical team will be on hand across the two days to answer your questions, with visitors also in with a chance of winning a range of prizes in DLF’s ‘Grass Identification Game!’.

DLF and Johnsons Enquiry 42

SISIS showcase Syn-Pro solutions

The full range of Syn-Pro by SISIS products will be on display at the first ever GroundsFest, which is taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 20 and 21 September 2023.

Syn-Pro by SISIS is a range of synthetic turf maintenance equipment, ideal for sanddressed, sand-filled, irrigated and rubber crumb 3G/4G surfaces. They are used around the world for routine drag brushing, grooming, decompaction, infill distribution and debris collection of synthetic playing surfaces.

With the emergence of synthetic surfaces becoming more common over the years in a wide range of sports, the Syn-Pro brand has continued to go from strength to strength.

Today synthetic surfaces are playing such a large role in a groundsperson’s overall

responsibilities, and many have turned to the reliable and efficient Syn-Pro range.

Located in the outdoor area on stand OAS170, visitors to GroundsFest will be able to see the full range of Syn-Pro products including:

Osca3 - The Osca is a tractor mounted powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 meter working width and is equally effective when used on synthetic turf with sand or rubber infill.

The two oscillating brushes stand the carpet fi bres up and redistributes the infill evenly, minimising compaction on the surface and improving its performance – giving consistent playing characteristics while preventing pile damage caused by reduced infill levels.

Litamina 1200 - The Litamina

1200 is a compact sweeper for efficient collection for unwanted debris from sand filled or rubber crumb synthetic surfaces. With its spiral design brush helping to stand up the pile and improve collection, and a large capacity mesh hopper collecting debris but allowing infill to be returned to the surface, the Litamina 1200 is ideal for helping to keep surfaces free of contamination and harmful debris.

SSS1000 sweeper - The SISIS SSS1000 is a tractor mounted sweeper which can be pulled by any machine. There are no tools required for the adjustment of the brush or the angle of the draw bar and to make storage easy the draw bar lifts to an upright position.

With an aluminium hopper with stainless steel mesh, any infi ll that is collected when using the machine is returned back down

to the surface leaving it free from contamination of debris.

Flexicomb - The Flexicomb ensures even distribution of infill materials and lifts the pile. The adjustable setting ensures the effect of a rake, but with the softness of a brush, reducing the risk of damage to the fibres. The bristle sections are replaceable and the Flexicomb is designed for a long working life with minimal maintenance.

For greater results, users can attach either the zigzag or straight brush to the Flexicomb which helps to even out the rubber crumb.

This is just a snapshot of the products that will be on display so make sure that a visit to the Syn-Pro stand is on your GroundsFest agenda.

SISIS Enquiry 45

High-powered for high productivity

The Kress Commercial 60V walk-behind lawn mower eliminates any need for petrol, and is part of the first truly cordless solution for commercial use.

Powered by a 1.6kW motor, the KC711.9 delivers 9.5Nm torque easily rivalling petrol machines of an equivalent size. The 51cm reinforced steel deck, heavy duty composite wheel, all rubber tyres and sealed ball bearing construction will provide a long service life.

Speak to your local garden machinery dealer today to learn more.

kress.com

At GroundsFest 2023, Pellenc UK will be showcasing its range of market leading batterypowered equipment.

In addition to the products, some lucky visitors will walk away with a section of prizes from the Pellenc portfolio.

Over recent years, Pellenc has gained market recognition by offering a unique range of ‘zero emission’ battery-powered tools, thanks to the development of Lithium-ion ultra-highperformance batteries.

Visitors to the Pellenc stand (OSA150) will get the opportunity to see a wide range of the market leading equipment.

The extensive Pellenc product range features an impressive portfolio – from chainsaws, pole saws and hedge cutters to grass strimmers, brushcutters, blowers and mowers.

The company is also participating in a GroundsFest registration giveaway which will see visitors land a range of prizes including the powerful Pellenc Rasion Basic battery-powered pedestrian mower, a telescopic saw, a fixed pole-saw and ULB40 ultra-Lithium-ion battery and harness. Every visitor who registers and attends will be in with a chance of winning.

The Pellenc team will be available throughout the two-day event to assist and advise on all your battery-powered questions. Pellenc offers an industry leading four-year commercial warranty for all batteries and a three-year warranty for all tools.

Pellenc is distributed exclusively in the UK by Etesia UK.

Etesia UK

Enquiry 46

Pellenc portfolio highlights benefits of battery power

Nature inspired adventure playground opens to the public

To tie in with the ‘Flashes Festival of Nature’ during mid-July, the public of Leigh and Wigan were treated to the opening of the Pennington Flash adventure playground.

This inclusive, nature-themed family play area attraction is now open and boasts a range of highspecification play equipment such as a wheelchair seesaw, tall towers with interconnecting crawling tubes and a multitude of swings plus a central ‘Toddler Lake’ for younger children to enjoy.

Designed by Proludic Ltd using feedback from local residents as part of a consultation that collated opinions, the play area is part of a £2.7m makeover of the much-loved beauty spot - now part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve.

Oscar Lorraine, Sales & Marketing Director from playground manufacturer and installer Proludic Ltd said:

“We were totally inspired by Pennington Flash and wanted to include elements that would reflect its natural beauty and help teach children about the diversity of wildlife in this wonderful habitat.

“Many well-known local birds will be found ‘hiding’ throughout the play space while our inclusive range of equipment will make use of materials that really complement the surrounding environment.”

Designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, the play area boasts a variety of wildlifeinspired attractions suitable for children up to the age of eleven - including equipment modelled on ducks, swans and other birds. This is all designed to make the user connect further with the reserve and provide educational context for the wildlife that can be found in the flashes.

A parent commented at the opening event “the attention to detail is fantastic from having the heron’s nest on top of the tall play tower to the replication of bull rushes on the balancing equipment adds to the sense that you are connecting further to the beautiful natural surrounds. My daughter really loves it here and the space has been considerably improved from the tired play area that was here prior.”

The Toddler Lake for underfives features wooden climbing equipment in the shape of a swan’s nest with a two-seater swan springer next to it, while there is also a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and seesaw as well as picnic tables for families to sit and relax together.

The completed project now represents the perfect destination park that further enhances the natural surroundings for the residents of Leigh and Wigan to enjoy all year round.

Proludic Enquiry 48

Universal Ramp from Wicksteed

At Wicksteed, we take immense pride in fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all children.

Building on the success of our Universal Range, we are excited to announce the latest addition to this collection, the Inclusive Ramp. This innovative add-on is designed to provide children with diverse physical abilities an equal opportunity to explore and play.

Our Universal Range, already celebrated for its easy grip accessories, low and wide platforms, interactive panels, and drag ramp has been raising the bar for inclusive play. However, we recognised that some children faced barriers in accessing certain play elements, limiting their experience with the equipment.

Responding to this challenge, our incredible design team diligently

developed the Inclusive Ramp, a thoughtful and practical solution.

The Inclusive Ramp offers a gentle slope, allowing children with mobility challenges to effortlessly navigate the play structure. Its sturdy design ensures safety while promoting self-confidence and independence among less ablebodied children.

By providing an accessible route, the ramp enables inclusive play, fostering camaraderie and understanding among all children on the playground. By embracing the Inclusive Ramp, communities can champion diversity, accessibility, and the limitless potential of every child, ultimately fostering a world where every child can thrive.

Wicksteed Enquiry 49

Innovation that fires the imagination

At HUCK, we strive to create truly innovative and engaging play structures that give children the space to engage with one another, explore their imaginations and exercise their bodies.

We have a fantastic variety of rope-based play equipment, including small and large scale structures.

Our range includes play towers, rope bridges, tunnels, climbing structures and a whole lot more!

Our incredible design team can work with you on custom and bespoke projects, whether that’s singular pieces of equipment or a full-scale playground.

Depending on your requirements, we can use timber or steel, along with our signature Hercules rope, to craft our unique playground structures. Take your pick from a range of rope colours to match your landscape or pick something that stands out to create an eye-catching and stimulating play environment.

We’re rolling out powder-coating options for our galvanised steel frameworks, giving you even more choices when it comes to customising your playground. You can get in contact with us to discuss more about powder coating possibilities.

Not only do we design and supply amazing playground equipment, but we also install the pieces. We’re at every step to ensure our high quality and safety standards are maintained throughout the process.

HUCK Enquiry 51

eibe advise on designing holistic playgrounds

Playgrounds are at the heart of the community, allowing families to have fun, exercise and to socialise.

eibe Play has over 50 years of experience in designing and installing timber playgrounds and we would love to share some top tips to create a holistic play area that serves your whole community:

1. Designing With Play Values

– When selecting equipment think about its play value.

The core ones are swinging, sliding, spinning, rocking, climbing and sensory play. There are many more but we believe if your play area offers these experiences then it will sufficiently serve your community.

2. Age-Appropriate Design – Selecting equipment that offers a wide range of challenges will allow a range of age groups to benefit from the space e.g. Using both an

easy toddler playhouse and a more challenging junior playhouse.

3. Social Spaces – Creating seating areas for parents/ carers to relax is important. One key factor is that these spaces should have a clear line of sight to the play area for keeping an eye on their children and importantly, so they can also see you.

eibe Enquiry 52

API launches exciting new research projects

The Association of Play Industries has held a special Annual General Meeting (AGM) and dinner at Coombe Abbey, Warwickshire.

During the event, the API launched two new research projects focusing on enhancing children’s play opportunities.

The true value of play - Dr Chris Mackintosh from Manchester

Metropolitan University presented the aims and objectives of new, commissioned independent research into the play industry.

The project will assess global research, provide an overview of the play industry’s size, scope and influence, and estimate its social, health, environmental and economic worth in the UK.

Play in schools - Dr Amanda

Gummer and Nikita Chan of Fundamentally Children outlined plans to raise the profile of API members in the education sector. Their research aims to identify schools’ key concerns around children’s development, learning and wellbeing, including considerations for new playground equipment.

Association of Play Industries Enquiry 53

Star rubber are proud to introduce a new line of 2D pre-formed graphics for EPDM wet pour surfacing. Made from high quality, full colour EPDM wet pour and preformed for ease of installation, complete your surface with crisp graphics or even a bespoke logo. The only limitation is your imagination.

Full brochure available on request, please contact info@starrubber.co.uk for more information.

www.star-rubber.co.uk

A comprehensive range of compact tractors

John Deere boasts a diverse range of compact tractors for landscape and amenity use, with 13 models in six series spanning 25 to 65hp.

At the smaller end of the market is the 1026R which has been designed for confined areas, fast implement changeover and ease of operation.

Standard features include a hydrostatic transmission, fourwheel drive and power steering, plus a deluxe seat and suspension, tilt steering and high-end lighting kit for all-day productivity.

The three-cylinder Yanmar TNV Series diesel engine producers 25hp, and operators have the option of a cab, mower deck and front loader.

John Deere’s 2R Series offers a step up in size. The range includes three models – the

2026R, 2032R and the 2038R – all of which have a threecylinder engine and easy-to-use hydrostatic transmission.

Power options in the series range from 25 to 37hp.

The 3R Series models deliver between 32 and 45hp from the 1.6-litre, three-cylinder diesel engine that features a high torque reserve, providing plenty of power under heavy loads.

This uses the latest engine technologies to improve fuel economy, control and accuracy, while also reducing environmental impact as well as operating costs.

At the top of the John Deere compact tractor range, the 4066M and 4066R receive a larger 2.1-litre, four-cylinder engine with DPF.

The 3R and 4R Series compact tractors are equipped with an eThrottle function integrated into the established eHydro transmission. This feature is designed make the tractor quieter and more comfortable to use, as well as more fuel efficient. With the simple push of a button, engine speed is conveniently linked to the foot pedal position so that engine rpm and tractor speed can both be increased as the pedal is depressed.

The latest compact models can now be equipped with a StarFire satellite receiver and AutoTrac Universal automatic steering system. This is designed to help operators achieve higher levels of accuracy and input cost savings when working with implements such as amenity turf sprayers, seeders and spreaders.

On selected models, the awardwinning Hitch Assist system

makes coupling up implements and trailers to the tractor’s rear hitch or three-point linkage quicker, easier and safer. Using this system, external switches mounted on the rear fender allow the operator to move the tractor backwards and forwards at a maximum speed of 12mm/ second, and raise or lower the hitch as required.

Other advanced technology features on John Deere compact tractors include LoadMatch, MotionMatch and SpeedMatch operating modes for maximum versatility in a wide range of tractor applications, plus a choice of AutoConnect drive-over rotary mower decks.

A cab is standard on the 4066R, and optional for all other models. Other attachments and features include front loaders, which are designed to work perfectly with

the hydraulic system, and boast mechanical self-levelling on certain models.

Autoconnect mowing decks save time for operators, and a wide

MAKES AERATING EFFORTLESS

range of lift and towing hitches increase the versatility of the compact tractor range.

John Deere Enquiry 57

Tyre choice is vital for compact tractors

When it comes to maximising the performance and efficiency of a compact tractor, selecting the right type of tyre is crucial.

The diverse range of options available can be overwhelming, but understanding the key differences between various tyre types will help you make an informed decision.

That’s why all KIOTI compact tractors are available with an choice of general purpose, industrial, turf and agricultural tyres.

General-purpose & Industrial

Tyres: Commonly the go-to choice for compact tractors that perform a wide range of tasks. They feature a versatile tread pattern that offers a balance between traction and smooth operation on various surfaces, including tarmac, grass, and loose soil. These tyres provide good grip, stability, and a comfortable ride. Industrial tyres are harder wearing and better suited for extensive road or loader work. However, the performance of both may be limited in challenging conditions such as muddy or steep terrains.

Agricultural Tyres: Designed specifically for farm work, agricultural tyres excel in muddy off-road environments.

They have deep treads with aggressive patterns, offering superior traction on loose soil, mud, and uneven terrain. Agricultural tyres provide excellent stability on slopes and can carry heavy loads. However, they may wear more on hard surfaces, such as concrete or tarmac, and cause surface disturbance on turf.

Turf Tyres: For compact tractors used mainly on lawns, golf courses, or sports fields, turf tyres are the ideal choice. They feature a shallow, smooth tread that minimises turf damage, ensuring a clean and even cut with a level finish. Their wider profile also helps reduce compaction. However, due to their diamond style and shallow tread, they have limited performance on rough terrains, mud, or snow, and are not suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Equipping your compact tractor is crucial for optimising its performance. General-purpose and industrial tyres strike a balance between versatility and performance, while agricultural tyres excel in challenging terrains. Turf tyres are ideal for maintaining lawns and delicate surfaces.

Kioti Enquiry 59

The IQ dual-clutch F24/R24

gear box was chosen as it makes maneuvering the tractor around the course whilst operating the equipment so easy. Another feature we really like is the Auto PTO function on the Headland Management System, it is brilliant for when we get to the end of the run with the aerator, we can lift the implement up, the PTO automatically cuts out, we can turn around then lower again and PTO restarts by itself. Brilliant for safety and avoiding damage or excess wear and tear on the implements themselves.”

Daniel Spencer, Letchworth Golf Club

Is Ventrac the most versatile compact tractor in the UK?

“In my opinion we have the most versatile machine for grounds management applications in the UK,” says Rupert Price, the managing director of Price Turfcare, the UK importers of the Ventrac compact tractor.

“Obviously I’m biased towards the use of compact tractors as it’s my core business, but our equipment has the major advantage of being extremely versatile.

“Ventrac’s range of attachments are designed to fit perfectly with the tractor unit, easily and with minimal downtime.

“We now have in excess of 30 different attachments including the most recent launches – the seedbed preparation equipment and the new loader with log grapple.

“It can be used as a mower, with seven different mowing decks

Built to perform without compromise.

for various types of turf or as a trencher, aerator, stump grinder, edger, leaf blower, snow blower, snow plough, gritter and more, so there is no reason why it cannot be used all year round.”

“We recently supplied one customer with a machinery replacement package of four Ventrac tractor units and 13 attachments to maintain their golf course.

COMPACT TRACTOR RANGE /18-61HP

“These replaced over 10 dedicated powered units that do just a single job. Everything is now interchangeable and with the Ventrac’s low ground pressure it will offer all year round use in all conditions.

“And finally it has ticked all the Health and Safety issues when it came to working on

slopes around the course. With compact tractors comes versatility, so long as any attachments can be swapped over easily.

“Ventrac’s unique mounting system ensures that implements can be changed in less than a minute, so if you can change that quickly, then it’s more

likely that you will! If it takes an age to mount implements, there’s a danger that your tractor and chosen implement becomes a ‘one-trick pony’ because it’s too bothersome and time-consuming to swap out one attachment for another.”

Price Turfcare Enquiry 60

The perfect balance of power, control and performance; Kubota compact tractors combine class-leading features and unrivalled reliability with the versatility you need for a wide range of tasks.

Ventrac’s contour deck impresses at Stover Golf Club

High performance machines engineered for mowing tricky terrain

For over 60 years, Canycom have been listening to the needs of their customers and producing highly efficient solutions.

The Canycom range of Ride-On Brushcutters – available in the UK from PSD Groundscare - are loved by customers due to their simple design yet impressively high level of performance.

and great results on steep slopes up to 25°.

All models available in the Canycom ride-on brushcutter range are powered by either a reliable Honda or Yamaha engine. The toolless blade change is available on all models (except CM1402) and makes this process quick and easy to complete.

Purchased as an exdemonstrator in January 2022 from Ventrac’s local dealer, Devon Garden Machinery (DGM), Stover Golf Club’s 4500 compact tractor with Contour deck attachment is a hit with course manager Jason Brooks and his team.

“We just love it,” he said, “it’s simple to operate and suits our course as it makes light work

of undulations and the bunker and tee banks that are a feature here. It’s certified to operate on 30-degree slopes, so from a health and safety point of view, it ticks all the boxes.

“We have numerous slopes that we used to strim, but we now use the Ventrac and save multiple work hours, they get cut more regularly and the defi nition is much better.

“We are situated mainly on clay, in fact there’s a Kaolin (china clay) and Silica (fine sand) quarry less than a mile away, so the light footprint of the machine is ideal. We also have a stream, Liverton Brook, running through the course and even in wet weather we can still mow the banks.”

“We did a lot of tree removal during the winter and had many stumps to grind; normally we

would get a contractor in to do this at quite an expense, instead, we hired the stump grinder attachment from DGM and were very impressed. We managed to remove 150 stumps in just a week! With DGM only 8 miles away, it’s good to know they have a range of Ventrac attachments for hire.”

Price Turfcare Enquiry 62

High-output zero turn mowers from John Deere

A high-output yet compact solution for groundscare professionals, John Deere’s ZTrak Zero-Turn mower range meets customer demand from across the sector.

Zero-turn mowers are ideal for restricted spaces and based on a robust, heavy-duty frame including a roll over protection structure.

The high-gauge steel rotary cutting decks feature a deep mowing chamber designed to handle more grass for increased capacity. This increases airflow so that a quality cut can be achieved even when mowing at maximum speed.

Of the four ZTrak models in the John Deere professional range, the Z740R is the petrolpowered entry level machine for commercial operations, with an 8.6mph forward speed and a maximum mowing width of 137cm, and side discharge.

Optional Michelin X Tweel turf airless radial tyres are immune to sharp objects, gliding smoothly over obstacles, and lasting three times longer than conventional pneumatic tyres.

John Deere Enquiry 63

All Canycom Ride-On Brushcutters are 4WD and can easily switch from 2WD to 4WD depending on the ground conditions.

Canycom Brushcutters are designed to work in the toughest conditions, these machines effectively clear long grass, bushes, weeds, bracken & brambles in a variety of sites such as woodland trails and orchards. The 4WD enables ease in operation and maneuverability to ensure high energy efficiency

There are no cutter deck belts to adjust or replace making the maintenance and cleaning of the mower easier and quicker and more power is delivered direct to the blades for extra efficiency.

With Canycom ride-on brushcutters, steep slopes can be mown conveniently and economically and offer the operator comfort with an adjustable steering wheel and seat.

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 64

Profihopper - the professional’s choice

The two augers provide blockagefree collection and maximum compaction

Mow Scarify Collect Mulch Roll

Wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the PH 1250 and PH 1500 models take it all in their stride.

And it’s that flexibility that sets the Profihopper apart from the crowd.

The sharpened wing blades on the horizontal SmartCut rotor cleanly cut and shred the grass before conveying it via the cross auger on to that unique second vertical auger to be packed into the collection hopper - meaning less time emptying and more time mowing. To add to that versatility, the sward is rolled after cutting and scarifying comes as standard.

The more than adequate power is provided by engines that are already Stage V Exhaust emission compliant and require no AdBlue.

Don’t compromise - choose the machine that comes with more compaction built-in for maximum work rates and less emptying.

Contact the Amazone Team on: 01302 755 725.

KIOTI zero-turns are built for high performance

With many years’ experience in producing agricultural and horticultural equipment, South Korean manufacturer KIOTI have expanded their product offering with the addition of ZX Zero-turn ride-on mowers.

Kubota F-Series deliver picturepostcard finish

This is a special year for Deighan’s Caravan Park, as the family-run business celebrate 30 years since the doors first opened on the 5-star resort close to Benone, Northern Ireland.

Their first mower – installed by local dealers D.A.Forgie - was a Kubota and three decades on, it remains Kubota at the heart of site maintenance, with a fleet of Kubota F-Series mowers ensuring a picture-postcard start to every holiday.

Thomas Deighan Jnr works alongside a team of four and currently has four mowers, including an F3890 and F391 from Kubota’s F-Series.

The F3890 sets the benchmark for the out-front mower market, featuring a 38hp 4-cylinder

engine that delivers unbeatable productivity and impeccable cut quality. The F391 further enhances the F Series’ position as the professional’s choice for parks, open spaces and local authorities with a high output, maximum comfort philosophy.

The newer, stage-V compliant model also offers power steering and an adjustable out-front deck making the F391 highly manoeuvrable – a feature praised by Thomas.

Together with an RTV-X1110 used to transport the team around the site, the latest delivery was a Kubota M4063 tractor, fitted with turf tyres, installed in December 2021.

Kubota Enquiry 66

SF range ticks all the boxes

The ISEKI SF range offers a variety of finishes - cut and drop, cut and collect, or cut, mulch and drop.

It can also be specified with rotary or flail decks at varying widths to suit the application. Scarifying blades can be added to certain units.

The range features Stage V compliant diesel engines that run at low revs, producing high torque and ensuring the machines are as economical as possible. Noise is also reduced as the engine is not working so hard to power the machine.

To maintain large areas of grass ISEKI offers the top of the range

Offering a cutting width of either 122cm or 137cm, the ZX mower is available in two versions, the 24hp ZXR for domestic use and the 25hp ZXC for commercial use. Both are powered by a Briggs and Stratton petrol engine with keyless numeric start, keeping the mower safe but removing the hassle of handing over keys.

The ZXR has a maximum forward speed of 12.9 km/h with a fuel tank capacity of 28.4l, sufficient for domestic applications. In contrast the

ZXC has a maximum forward speed of 16.1km/h and a fuel tank capacity of 47.3l, allowing operators to cover more ground quickly. To support this higher use, the ZXC is also equipped with a premium suspended seat with a higher back rest and an uprated drive system.

The comfortable seating position combines well with the front castering wheels and zero-turn steering to make the mower highly manoeuvrable, especially in tight spaces. The cutting height can be adjusted on the move by a conveniently located dial, with numerical indication, from 38 to 127mm and the side discharge deck can be fitted with an optional mulch kit.

KIOTI Enquiry 67

SF551 centre collect mower which is now also available with a Muthing flail deck. The turbine-driven straight through chute offers the ability to cut and collect without blocking in all weather conditions and the wide deck and 1300 litre hopper handles thick grass. To scarify and collect in one pass, the Muthing flail deck blades can be swapped to scarifying blades.

Powered by a 22.5 hp engine, the SF551 is designed to be fuel efficient and only requires simple maintenance. For increased power there is SF237 35hp mower.

ISEKI Enquiry 68

Focus on efficiency continues

Developments to Amazone’s Profihopper range have focused on economy and efficiency.

The zero-turn ride-on mowers utilise a tool-less blade change system which means they can mow, scarify, mulch, collect and roll. They can tip into a skip or trailer to clear a site using the high-lift collection hopper.

There are two models: the 1.25m, PH 1250 and the newer 1.5m, PH 1500, now available with a cab.

Profihopper mowers feature 45.6hp Stage V diesel engines which are used without AdBlue, and Simon comments:

“The mechanical collection system is quieter and requires less power than an airpowered collector. The engine management system on the PH 1500 means that the engine revs are automatically set in either road mode or work mode to keep fuel consumption to a minimum.”

Latest PH 1500 models have an ECO-mode for mowing in lighter conditions which sets the rotor to 2,500 revs, instead of the usual 3,400 rpm, reducing fuel consumption, cutting noise and reducing emissions.

Grass flow through the mower has also been streamlined to

increase output by 30% with less fuel consumed.

With the drive to cut down diesel engine use, consider the impact on the environment and encourage wildlife in open spaces, many parks and gardens now have dedicated wildflower areas.

With this comes less frequent cutting requirement, but it necessitates a different type of machine to cope with the workload and collect the vegetation at the end of the season, points out Iseki.

Amazone Enquiry 70

EGO builds on Z6 success with range expansion

Following the global success of the world’s first battery-powered zero-turn ride-on mower, EGO Power Plus is expanding its range with the introduction of two new ride-on mowers.

Ideal for homeowners with large plots of land, both mowers – the ZT4200E-S and the ZT5200E-L – build upon the accomplishments of the original Z6 (ZT4201E-L). Standout features including EGO’s Peak Power™ technology, intuitive screen, and three versatile driving modes remain on the new models whilst fresh features have also been introduced.

One of the new models – the ZT4200E-S – drives like a car and turns like a zero-turn ride-on mower with its innovative steering wheel system whilst the other – the ZT5200E-L – offers a considerably larger three-blade option with a 312cm fabricated cutting deck.

Vince Brauns, Group Product Manager at EGO, said: “By introducing a steering wheel model, we are opening up the zero-turn ride-on platform to users who would prefer that mechanism to a lap bar.”

Primarily a side discharge mower, the ZT4200E-S can also mulch and collect with the aid of additional kits. It also features four blade speeds and three driving modes for fast cutting efficiency, whilst maintaining a run time of up to 2.5 acres on a single charge. As with all other EGO ride-on mowers, it is compatible with all EGO batteries and uses Peak Power technology – the equivalent of a 22hp petrol engine.

EGO’s Peak Power technology combines the power of up to six EGO batteries for longer run time and efficient power draw. Building on the success of the

first Z6, the 132cm zero-turn ride-on is a larger 3-blade mower featuring a fabricated deck and larger wheels to support the additional weight.

The innovative zero-turn lap bar steering system provides excellent access to the machine as well as unobstructed views of the working area.

Both mowers are sold as a kit with the CHV1600E 1600W Charger, the industry’s fastest charger capable of charging six 10Ah batteries in as little as three hours. Additional accessories include a sun-shade, on-board storage, rear bumper, mulching kit and much more.

EGO Enquiry 71

Two super quiet lithiumpowered machines from dealer, Fairways GM at Renfrew, are keeping noise to a minimum at Bishopbriggs Golf Club.

Not waking the neighbours is the primary reason for the double purchase of a Jacobsen Eclipse Elite greens mower and a Cushman Hauler Pro by Course Manager, Ian Anderson, and his greenkeeping team of five.

The Jacobsen Eclipse has a hydraulic-free design and proven ELiTE lithium battery, and is billed as providing “the greenest, quietest and highest quality Jake signature cut”.

“The cutting standard is excellent; it strengthens our fleet... Our GP400 is getting

refitted with seven blade units to do our tees and approaches, so there is a knock-on benefit across the course as our equipment improves.”

Jacobsen Enquiry 72

Bishopbriggs GC keeps early noise to a minimum

McConnel launch new Power Arm 67-Series

McConnel has expanded its range of Power Arms with the introduction of the new-look 67-Series.

Available with reach options from 5.0m to 7.0m and powered by high performance 70hp hydraulic system, the new 67-Series has been designed for farmers, contractors and local authorities and features new design style which marks the arrival of McConnel’s nextgeneration Power Arms.

Among the key new features of the machine is the restyled hydraulic tank that incorporates a two-piece rear guard and sculpted polypropylene top cover. Designed to improve access to the hydraulic system, the new rear guard is hinged at one-side to enable quick opening for easy access for maintenance.

The new one-piece top-cover is sculpted from impact resistant polypropylene and designed to minimise material build-up and prevent the ingress of dust and moisture.

Customers can choose from five different armsets including 5.5m and 6.0m straight-arms, 6.5m and 7.0m telescopic arms, and a 6.0m Variable Forward Reach (VFR) option. VFR enables operators to position the flailhead alongside the cab for enhanced visibility and comfort. VFR also aids manoeuvrability when cutting around obstacles and working in confined environments such as narrow lanes.

Advanced arm features that are synonymous with McConnel Power Arms such as; Hy-reach geometry, parallel arm geometry,

Reform Metrac H75 is in demand

The Blackburn based Stuart Taylor dealership has recently taken delivery of three Reform Metrac H75 bank mowers from UK Agent Simon Richard Ltd.

Tommy Taylor said: “Two of the Reforms are for Stoke City council for maintenance of banked grassed areas and a wide range of open spaces. The authority say they are impressed with both performance and operator safety.”

Simon Richard added: “The 75hp Reform Metrac H75 has proven itself to be a year round workhorse for a wide range of groundcare tasks. Steering modes include front, rear, crab and fourwheel steer.”

The 75hp hydrostatic drive Metrac H75, the latest model in their multifunctional tool carrier range, serving the professional contractor, local authority and golf sectors.

The H75 is powered by a common rail diesel engine from Perkins, which complies with Tier V emissions level Classified

as emissions level 5, the tractor has an impressive lifting force of 1500kg to both front and rear linkage for categories 1 or 2 and the rear can be equipped with a quick hitch system while the high efficiency of the electrohydraulic power shift PTO provides power precisely when needed.

When four-wheel steering is active, the front and rear wheels run exactly in the same line, ensuring tension-free traction on more difficult terrain. Front, rear, four wheel and crab steering as well as offset fourwheel steering can easily be switched at the push of a button.

The hydrostatic drive with two speed ranges and two terrain gear reductions enables continuous adaptation of the driving speed.

The system is completed by the electro-hydraulic spring brake with an auto hold function which allows smooth and judder-free setting off on slopes.

Simon Richard Enquiry 76

and Power Slew are all standard features on the new 67-Series.

At the heart of the machine is a 70hp gear hydraulic system that utilises McConnel’s in-house designed and manufactured hydraulic valve blocked. Designed specifically for McConnel Power Arms, the high-performance hydraulic system includes electric rotor control, Soft-Start rotor engagement and a high-capacity oil cooler as standard.

Three different control packages are available on all models, including the proportional Motion control, Evolution Control, and the range topping REVOLUTION control system, that offers more functionality and can be specified with EDS, McConnel’s award winning Easy Drive System which significantly increases

verge mowing speeds. All models utilise a heavy-duty mainframe that’s designed for 3-point linkage mounting. Users looking to added further stability or to reduce stresses on tractor linkage can opt for either the 4-point hitch or 5-point axle mounting sub-frame, both of which can be retrofitted.

Precision-engineered in the UK at McConnel’s Shropshire production facility, the 67-Series is available with a comprehensive range of attachments including 1.2m, 1.5m and 1.6m flailheads, sawheads, rotary heads and cutterbars.

McConnel’s Power Arm 67-Series is immediately available through the McConnel dealer a network.

McConnel Enquiry 75

Hedge, verge and slope mower in one versatile package

The Ventrac 4520 compact tractor is ideal for maintaining hedges, roadside verges and the edges of ponds and riverbanks in safety, as it is can tackle inclines of up to 30 degrees.

Maintaining verges beside highways can result in lane closures and other safety measures, so time is of the essence. The Ventrac 4520 with its choice of mowing decks is a highly productive combination allowing large areas to be mown, quickly and efficiently. Easy servicing of belts and pulleys is provided by hinged and removable covers and tilt-up decks provide easy access.

Norwich Norse Environmental is one of the three companies involved in a joint venture to

maintain the embankments and verges of the Broadland Northway. Formerly known as the Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NNDR), it connects traffic from the eastern approaches to the northwest of the city.

Operations Manager Martin Adcock said: “The Ventrac, with its 1.7 metre cutting width and maximum speed of around 16 km an hour, certainly does the job. It tackles the embankments with ease and leaves a very acceptable finish. With a ground pressure of just 6 psi, it’s gentle on the newly established slopes and can be used at 30 degrees, something no other ride-on machine can achieve.”

The Boom Mower is the perfect tool for cutting back hedges,

POWER ARM 67-SERIES

A perfect combination of reach, power and performance.

• • 5.5m, 6.0m, 6.5m & 7.0m Reach options

• 70hp High-performance hydraulic system

• Integrated oil cooler

• VFR and Telescopic armsets

• Choice of controls and attachments

shrubs, saplings, reeds around pond edges and vegetation on riverbanks. With a reach in excess of 2.74 metres (108”), it features a double action 91.4 cm (36”) sickle bar with an autolevelling system, which keeps the

head at the desired angle of cut for consistent operation. Its outfront mounting system provides excellent visibility and comfort for the operator.

Price Turfcare Enquiry 77

T: +44 (0)1584 873131

W: www.mcconnel.com

Kubota adds M5002 Narrow model to line-up

Kubota (UK) Ltd has introduced a narrow version of its 106hp M5-102 tractor, aimed at those working in specialist fruit, vineyard, vegetable and solar park applications.

This latest model is called the M5-102N, and it brings several upgrades over its predecessor, the M5001N. These include a revised cab complete with Category 4 filtration; front axle suspension and front PTO; hydraulically adjustable rear linkage stabilisers and lift rods; and reduced cost of ownership through improved DPF and emissions control efficiency.

Power comes from Kubota’s V3800 engine. A 3.8-litre fourcylinder turbocharged diesel, the V3800 delivers 346Nm of torque and 106hp, and is equipped with an EU Stage V compliant emissions package that uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

Importantly, the emissions control module is neatly packaged under the bonnet, avoiding the need for external mounting of components such as the DEF tank and SCR cannister, which could impact on the operator’s view from the cab. And with a diesel filler at the rear of the tractor and a DEF filler under the bonnet, it is almost impossible to mistake the fill points.

“Packaging is very important on a tractor that is governed by its physical size,” explains Jonathan Rook, Kubota’s UK product manager for M-series tractors. “And this narrow model does not disappoint. Yet on its narrowest wheel and tyre combination, the M5-102N can be slimmed down to just 1.2m wide to suit rowspecific tasks.”

Course on top form with ISEKI

Working hard to restore this beautiful heathland course back to its former glory, Ipswich Golf Club with its 9-hole and 18-hole courses just keeps getting better every year.

The driving force behind all this is Graham Brumpton, Course Manager who has dedicated his last 33 years to developing the course, gradually introducing heathland elements back and managing the woodland areas to allow the natural habitats to thrive. Their previous ISEKI tractor was in need of replacement

after over 25 years of hard graft. Another compact tractor with a higher horse power was required, so following demonstrations with different manufacturers the ISEKI TH5370 ticked all the boxes!

Graham explained: “We use the machine for so many jobs on the course include aerating, brushing the fairways and topdressing.

“Another reason we particularly chose the TH5370 was for the width of the tractor itself, we needed a tractor to

power the Pro-core and ensure there was no overlap, at 1.3m wide it was perfect for the job!

“Alongside powering the implements it is used for all greens work, towing the trailer to carry bunker sand and divot material around the course, then transporting the greens mowers to each hole.

“So versatility and operator friendly with very intuitive controls was important as the whole team use the tractor.”

ISEKI Enquiry 80

Latest emissions control technology sees the M5N able to perform a diesel particulate filter (DPF) regen at much lower RPM and using much lower temperatures compared to the previous M5N. Requiring only 1,100rpm to complete, considerable fuel savings are available compared to the previous model’s 2,000rpm regen. A DPF service is not required until 6,000 hours, and engine oil changes are every 500 hours.

The dashboard combines an LCD panel with traditional gauges, and thanks to electronic engine control,

operators can set two engine speed memories. With electronic engine speed monitoring and control, power demanding tasks can be better maintained without excessive fluctuations in engine speed.

The tractor is now equipped with a stationary PTO function, and LED lighting, and when it comes to hydraulic services, buyers have the choice of manual or electronic spools and the option of ISOBUS implement control through Kubota’s 7in or 12in K-Monitors.

Kubota Enquiry 79

Professional groundcare equipment - for professionals

Pedestrian Stand-on Electric Ride-on

Star Kerb has been designed to create the perfect edge for laying wet pour surfacing onto a hard surface. It provides a firm, vandal resistant edge. The exclusive design makes the kerb virtually impossible to pull up.

Cap Kerb has been designed to fit over a timber gravel board, providing easy installation. We offer a complete upvc edging, this flexible edging allows for easy installation and unlike wooden edges it will not rot or erode with time.

EGO launches new telescopic pole saw Hallstone announces exponential sales growth

Hallstone, part of the Rolawn group, has recorded a “marked increase” in sales for the first half of 2023 – including

seeing bulk bag revenue surge by more than 50%. Having relaunched as a trade only brand in March this year,

Hallstone, which is known for its premium landscaping products, has announced that sales of its bulk bag products are up over 50% on last year’s figures.

Hallstone supplies bulk bag products including premium topsoil, bark mulch, wood chippings and compost, to a network of over 400 trusted stockists across the UK.

Taking the decision not to sell directly online, Hallstone instead updated its branding and website with the express intention of driving customers to trade stockists, a tactic that is working well for the firm - Hallstone’s merchant channel being 47% up on the previous year and the number of Hallstone stockists increasing by 63%.

Hallstone

Enquiry 95

EGO Power Plus, a technology leader in high-performance cordless outdoor power equipment, has further extended its telescopic tool range.

EGO’s PS1000E Telescopic Pole Saw, with a recommended retail price of £509, gives contractors and home gardeners a viable all-electric tool with a host of benefits.

This lightweight telescopic pole saw reaches lengths of 4m when fully extended, allowing for quick and easy tree maintenance without the need for ladders.

Designed with the motor at the head of the tool, for improved balance and ergonomics as well as cut accuracy.

EGO

Enquiry 96

Sporting