Agrimart July 2024 Issue

Flails for the cutting edge

• Front - rear - side or offset for tractors 10hp - 400hp

• Mulchsysteme gives proven control of pests and weeds while stimulating healthy crop and pasture growth

Simon Richard Ltd, Crown Tailrig, Bonchester Bridge, Hawick, TD9 8RA Tel: 01450 860774 Fax: 01450 860772 mail@simon-richard.co.uk www.simon-richard.co.uk

• Ideal for stubble management and grass control.

• For heavy duty rotary mowers up to 300hp.

• Deep deck with mulching structure beneath aids even spread.

• Multiple blade choices (standard, shredding & mulching).

• Easy height and level adjustment.

• 5mtr, 6.3mtr & 7. 3mtr.

Simon Richard Ltd

Crown Tailrig, Bonchester Bridge, Hawick, TD9 8RA Tel: 01450 860 774 Fax: 01450 860 772 simon@simon-richard.co.uk www.simon-richard.co.uk

7 - Layer Oxygen Barrier Film

Strong & Flexible 100 mic

Very low oxygen permeability

Various sizes available 10m - 40m widths

Up to 400m length available

SilO Block in Jumbo sized rolls

Film dispenser frame available

Reduced Wastage

Ideal for larger clamps

Reduced labour costs in application

Heavy duty sidewall sheets - 150 mic thick

Protects clamp walls from acidic leachate

Available in black or transparent

Various sizes available

Protection against bird & rodent damage

Tread safe - resistant to tearing

Up to 10 years or more in use

Various sizes available

Effective coverage of silage clamp sheets

Stack neatly when not in use

Do not hold water

Easy handling

Each ring covers approximately 1m

SILO BLOCK 2

Here at Glendale Engineering, we are proud to be able to say that we have over 35 years’ experience designing and manufactur ing Agricultural Buildings & Equipment.

• Special offers available on Cattle & Sheep Hurdles, Gates & Water Troughs •

Suppliers of:

Suppliers of:

-Cattle Handling & Feeding Equipment

• Cattle Handling & Feeding Equipment

-Sheep Handling & Feeding Equipment

-Sheep Portarace

• Sheep Handling & Feeding Equipment

- ATV Trailers

• Sheep Portarace

- Agricultural Buildings

• ATV Trailers

-Electronic Cattle & Sheep Weigh Systems

• Agricultural Buildings

- Large quantity of box section and pipe, Phone for special offers

• Electronic Cattle & Sheep Weigh Systems

• 9”x3” Timbers & 6”x3” Timbers In Stock

• Big Six Fibre Cement Sheets In Stock

Wooler : 01668 281464

Hexham : 01434 603078

Email : info@glendaleegineering.co.uk

Wooler : 01668 281464

Graeme Wilson : 07971 880275

Web : www.glendaleengineering.co.uk

John Common : 07981 890999

Bob Clapham : 07954 363979

info@glendaleegineering.co.uk www.glendaleengineering.co.uk

Octoposts

Sheep Snacker

Calf Creep

Octoposts

Sheep Snacker

Calf Creep

Calf Creeps Painted or Galvanised

ATV Trailer

Bracken Bruiser

Combi-Clamp Portarace

CHOOSE PUMA POWER

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SCOTTISH MACHINERY RING MEMBERS

Scottish Machinery Rings are working in partnership with Case IH dealers to provide an exclusive rebate for members on their latest machines including the Puma 185–260.

The Puma offers the next level of comfort with its new, 8% bigger cab which offers the quietest working environment in the segment with only 66dB(A).

DEALERS (MAIN DEPOTS)

AL Agri, Forfar, 07709 215713

Davidson Tractors Ltd, Newton Stewart, 01988 840272

Everitt & Marshall Ltd, Hexham, 01434 603194

G Marshall Tractors Ltd, St Boswells, 01835 823240

Glenside Tractors Ltd, Campbeltown, 01586 553624

J & W Tait Ltd, Kirkwall, 01856 872490

J Low Agri Services Ltd, Kelty, 01383 830220

Mark Garrick Ltd, Elgin, 01343 860556

Paxtons, Alnwick, 01665 605577

R C Dalgliesh, Lockerbie, 01576 202422

Ramsay & Jackson Ltd, Mauchline, 01290 550329

MACHINERY RINGS

Borders, 01896 758091

Caithness, 01955 608865

HBS Ring, 01463 811603

Lothian, 0131 339 8730

Orkney, 01856 879080

Ringlink Scotland, Rural Services Scotland, Tarff Services, Tayforth,

EQ Agriculture

We witnessed one of the wettest springs on record, with farmers still feeling the effects of relentless rainfall. Our dedicated agricultural team are here to help if you need support to navigate through this challenging year, or are looking for longer term planning to weather any future storms.

Victoria Ivinson

info@eqaccountants.co.uk

01573 225082

With You. Through tough farming times

Watson Hogg Feeder

Bateman Sheep Grip

McCauley 10t Drop Side Trailer

Malone 14t Log Splitter

Malone 3m Mower Conditioner

Malone 6 Rotor Tedder

BEDNAR SPECIALS

PLOUGHS

KV 3400S 85 6 FURROW 11029380

KV 3300S 85 5 FURROW 11026485

KV 3300S 85 5 FURROW 11026485 AGED

KV 2300S 85 5 FURROW 21026498 AGED

KV ES250 85 6 FURROW 31028730

KV ES250 85 5 FURROW 11029378

FERTILISER SPREADERS

£45,900

£33,900

£32,950

£27,250

£32,400

£29,790

KV TL GEOSPREAD 1875 PRO X2 EXTENSIONS 3,225L OR X3 3,900L, HOPPER COVER, X2 FOLDABLE SIDE STEPS, LED LIGHTS, 1M SECTION CONTROL LIST £28,458 SELL £21,690

KV TL GEOSPREAD 1500 PRO X 2 EXTENSIONS, 2800L 11029924 £19,900

KV EL 1400L 11029929 HYD CONTROL, HOPPER COVER LIST £6,649 SELL £4,999

GRASSLAND

KV 2624M PLAIN MOWER 2.4M 41028571 £7,450

KV 2828M MID MOUNT PLAIN MOWER 2.8M 41028573

£10,550

KV 2832M MID MOUNT PLAIN MOWER 3.2M 41028575

£10,990

KV 3224MN MOWER CONDITIONER 2.4M 41028577 £11,990

KV 3228MN MOWER CONDITIONER 2.8M 41028578 £12,190

KV TAT8452 COMPACT LINE TEDDER 5.2M 41028586 £6,190

KV TAT8555 PRO LINE 4 ROTOR TEDDER 5.5M 41028587 £7,800

KV TAT8460 COMPACT 6 ROTOR TEDDER 6M 41028590 £8,550

KV TAT8590 PRO LINE 8 ROTOR TEDDER 9M 41028594 £14,990

KV TAR9580C TWIN ROTOR RAKE 8M 41028596 £20,290 OTHER EQUIPMENT

KV 7710C MOUNTED BALE WRAPPER 61028825 £10,490

KV ENDURO 3000 10 TINE CULTIVATOR WITH ACTIPACK ROLLER 31029674 £16,790

BEDNAR SWIFTERDISC WITH PADDLES XO 8000 F £64,900 BEDNAR SWIFTERDISC WITH PADDLES XO 6000 F £50,750 BEDNAR SWIFTERDISC WITH PADDLES

Bateman Bespoke Cattle Handling

Ritchie

Mobile Sheep Handler

SECONDHAND TRACTORS/HANDLERS

FENDT 936 PROFI PLUS 60kph, 15 Reg, c/w 7300 hrs, front linkage, 5 rear spools, front PTO, RTK guidance

FENDT 828 60kph, 16 Reg, c/w 6000 hrs, front linkage, 5 rear spools

FENDT 720 POWER PLUS 67 Reg, c/w 5985 hrs, front linkage, 4 spools

FENDT 718 POWER PLUS 67 Reg, 8100 hrs, Front linkage, Front PTO

FENDT 828 PROFI PLUS 21 Reg, 7500 hrs, Under warranty, Front PTO, RTK GPS

FENDT 516 50 kph, 18 Reg, c/w 6275 hrs, Quicke Q5m Loader and guidance

VALTRA Q305 50 kph, 73 Reg, EX HIRE c/w 950 hrs, front linkage, front PTO, hyd top link, front axle suspension

VALTRA T195D 57 kph, EX HIRE c/w 4 rear spools, hyd top link – high spec

MERLO TF42.7-140CS 67 Reg, c/w 5500 hrs, boom suspension, air con, air seat

MERLO TF33.7-115 18 Reg, c/w 1700 hrs, air con, boom suspension, LED lights, VGC

MERLO TF30.9-PLUS 20 Reg, c/w 5300 hrs, air con, boom suspension

SECONDHAND MACHINERY

SULKY 3M GRAIN & FERTILISER COMINATION UNIT full spec EX DEMO

FENDT 1290XD TANDEM AXLE SQUARE BALER c/w air brakes EX DEMO

TEAGLE SUPER TED 221 6 hours of work EX DEMO

SUMO 6M TRAILED MULTI-PRESS c/w leading tines and press rings

TEAGLE 8100 TRAILED STRAWBEDDER c/w swivel chute, 2012 model

3 POINT LINKAGE WEIGHTS selection of new and used

NEW / EX STOCK

FENDT 6 ROTOR TWISTER (Lotus)

FENDT FORMER, SINGLE AND TWIN ROTOR

NEW NC FORK MOUNTED YARD BRUSHES 2.5m & 3m EX STOCK

NEW NC 16 TONNE GRAIN TRAILERS c/w hi-speed axles EX STOCK £22,750 + VAT

NEW NC 16 TONNE DUMP TRAILERS (316 & 616 models), full spec EX STOCK

NEW TEAGLE 8500/9500/1010 STRAW/SILAGE BEDDER FEEDERS EX STOCK

SUMO 5-4-3 LEG SUBSOILERS c/w auto reset EX STOCK

NRH 3 LEG SUBSOILERS c/w auto reset EX STOCK

NRH 5 LEG SUBSOILERS auto reset c/w packa roller

NEW SUMO FRONT WEIGHTS 1000kg, 1500kg, 2000kg EX STOCK

FENDT 936 PROFI PLUS

AGRIWELD 3M MANTIS MOUNTED CULTIVATOR c/w 5 legs

MCCONNELL DISCAERATION 3000 c/w auto reset, 5 legs

www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk sales@ancroft-tractors.co.uk

Berwick-upon-Tweed: 01289 331904

SUMO 3M TRIO c/w 6 leg auto reset and packer. Straight leg model

SUMO 3.5M TRAILED TRIO c/w auto reset, front discs, VGC

Kelso: 01573 225213

SUMO 3M FRONT MOUNTED MULTIPACKA c/w tines

Macmerry: 01875 617323

• 60kph • ’15 Reg • c/w 7300 hrs

• Front linkage • 5 rear spools

• Front PTO • RTK guidance

Thorburn Group, Duns

Lower Mansfield Road, Hawick, TD9 8AW

Willowford Farm, Jedburgh

Thorburn Group, Duns

Dressing home saved seed for over 30 years

Owner operator independent personal service

Helping you increase margin

CleaningMachinery-LawDenis& Gravit ySelectors. Peris talticChemicalPumps DigitalWeigh Beams.

For Fur ther Informationpleasecontact Steve McKeeon 01665603345 or 07713625957 E-mail: steve@afsseed.com

For further information please contact Steve McKee on 0771 3625957 Email: steve@afsseed.com 20 Tyelaw Meadows, Shilbottle, Northumberland, NE66 2JJ

Waleric House, Northumberland Street Alnmouth, Northumberland NE66 2RS Tel: 01665603345 AllChemicals available. NAACmember.

Machinery Grass

Kverneland 3m Drill, ex-demo

£49000

Maxiplus 3m G&F pneumatic drill, 2000l hopper, s-series harrow & packer roller

Deutz-Fahr 6135 RV, ex-demo

£70000

136hp, 20 speed power shift, 50kph, front suspension, 4 double spools.

Nugent Livestock Trailer

£8500

Fold-up sheep decks with dividing gates, reinforced loading ramp, fully galvanised.

Kverneland 3228 MT Mower Conditioner

£4500

Comes with nylon finger tine.

Contact a member of our sales team:

Ian Chalmers: 07793 589 678 ic@hendersongm.co.uk

All prices shown are excluding VAT

Allan White: 07501 088 177 apw@hendersongm.co.uk

William Smith: 07793 589 661 ws@hendersongm.co.uk www.hendersongm.co.uk

Haddington 01620 823171 | Selkirk 01750 725725 | Kinross 01577 865733

NEW Kubota BF3255 SC14N Baler£20000

Fixed chamber, 1.20x1.25m bale, 2.2m pick up, Supercut 14 chopper system, 2 year warranty

Major Cyclone Heavy Duty Rotary Mower

£7900

9'3"/2.8m cut, Strenx 700 high strength steel, 4 rotor discs, rear roller, cutting height from 40 - 200mm

Kverneland 95/200 Plough

£7000

Hydraulic varia width, manual front furrow adjustment.

Dieci 42.7 VS EVO2 Telehandler£65000 138hp, 4WD, Vario Hydro Drive, 40kph, 6.9m reach, boom suspension, air con, many extras, ex-hire with 261 hours

Broughan Bale / Flat Trailer

£12250

28’ long, 24” fitted headboard, hydraulic brakes, LED road & side marker lights

Kubota L2-452 DW FST

£21000

44.9HP/33KW, 4 cyl engine, 2/4WD, 16Fx16R shuttle transmission with creep gears, choice of turf or ag wheels & tyres

2nd-Hand Kubota Out-Front Ride-On Mower

£14000

Model F3090, 2 available, comes with 60” cutter deck, low hours - under 500 hours.

Various second-hand Suzuki ATVs in stock and available now! Get in touch for more information.

SURFACE DRESSING WITH NATURAL STONE FINISHES

SILAGE PITS, FARM ROADS, DRIVEWAYS, ESTATES

BLOCK PAVING OF PATHWAYS, DRIVEWAYS & CAR PARKS

SCHOOL PLAYGROUNDS, PATHWAYS, CAR PARKS

TARMACADAM, ASPHALT, PATCHING & POTHOLE REPAIRS

DRAINAGE, KERBING, GROUNDWORKS

PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

Warreners House, Morpeth

The Stiel, Yarrowford

Broad eld Farm, Symington

Langtonlees Farm, Duns

A BRIDGE TOO OLD

The bridge that I was scheduled to pull a fortnight ago had to be delayed as it has a preservation order which will have to be removed, before I can move it. It is so old and rotten that it is questionable what the Preservation Order is preserving but that is bureaucracy.

Another month has gone by with so little activity that my batteries were flat when I was about to set off to Penicuik. Bogdan kindly charged them up and we made the 40 mile journey in good time arriving as scheduled for a 10:30 appointment. There I met Scott Stoddart who introduced me to his lovely fiancée, Sarah, who helped with the moving of his hen shed. The Stoddarts laid a concrete floor for their sheds some years ago which has made their job a lot easier. It is surprising just how much effort it still takes to break the seal and start the initial move. My spades went down so far I thought they were going to disappear! The soil is the best I ever anchor in – deep and stone free. I hear him asking Scott why they are not growing veg or potatoes - the answer came back as high and wet! It was one of those jobs that went without a hitch, and within 45 minutes I was turning round to head home.

Next up is shed here and hopefully a bridge in the not too distant future. I so badly wanted to go to the rally at Thirlestane Castle last weekend but he would not take me out. As a previous champion my attendance was expected and I can only apologize for his behaviour.

Northumberland Contract Farming Opportunity

Matfen Estates is seeking a joint venture under a contract farming arrangement for a mixed livestock operation based at Halton Red House Farm, Corbridge.

The successful applicants will have both practical and managerial skills to take on the day-to-day management and operation of a mixed livestock enterprise, whilst diversifying into the tourism industry, to create a successful and productive farming business within the estate.

Excellent animal husbandry skills, attention to detail and a good business focus are essential.

Various contract farming arrangements will be considered, and a 3-bedroom farmhouse is available as the successful applicant's residence. There will be opportunities to expand the farming business, build up a share of the enterprise and diversify further by mutual agreement.

Expressions of interest should be made to Darcy Elles at Darcyelles@matfenestates.com or on 01661 855200. Tender information is available on request.

LAND WANTED

(unproductive agricultural land)

Approximately 3-4 acres with vehicle access. To be used for my dog walking business. Do not require or seek building permission.

Looking for somewhere in St Boswells, Newtown, Melrose, Earlston, Lauder, Selkirk, Galashiels or nearby surrounding areas.

Contact Jennie on 07367 582 835 or email me on contact@jenniesk9crew.co.uk

Agri Heat Pump Specialists

Open Event

Aimed at high-energy use businesses and those focussed on sustainability.

The Calibrate team invite you and your guests to meet the team at: Hauxley Poultry Farm

Wednesday 24th July 2024 | 10am - 2pm

Venue: Lodge Lane, Great Stannington, Darlington, TS21 1NF

Tours, talks and technical information sessions

Refreshments & lunch provided

Find out more about:

Renewable Technology Ground Source Heat Pumps ideal for heat recovery, drying, heating and chilling

Calibrate Analytics© Our Innovative energy assessment platform to control and optimise energy-generating systems

Re-Calibrate Upgrading and expanding older systems for greater performance

Maintenance Packages for long term peace of mind.

Event registration

To register your interest, email info@calibrateltd.co.uk or scan the QR code

After upgrades and modifications following our Calibrate Analytics© assessment and diagnosis, one re-calibration client now has an optimised system. Costs have reduced and the ROI has been just one year. Case Study

SCAN ME

Supplying dependable and powerful generators in the North of England and Scotland

If you require dependable, plentiful source of power, our fantastic generators won’t let you down. Marshall Green’s expert team offer generators for sale to a diverse range of clients through out northern England and Scotland. We are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to make sure you have all the power you need, when you need it.

The Old Smiddy, Graden, Kelso, TD5 8BS Telephone : 01573 430338 Email : info@walkergroundworks.com

Walker Groundworks are a long-serving company, established in 1996, covering a working area including but not restricted to the Scottish Borders, Northumberland and the Lothians.

Our highly skilled and dedicated team are here to help with any of the following works:

• Earthworks/Site Preparation/Roads

• Crushing

• Groundworks/Plotworks

• Deep Drainage

• Field Drainage & Ditching

• River Works

• Concrete Flooring for Agricultural/Industrial Shed (Laid with highly accurate Laser Screed, with finish to meet clients' requirements)

• All Timber work undertaken – including Harvesting, Hand Cutting, Thinnings & Clear Fell

• Haulage including Heavy Plant Movement, Timber Haulage & Hiab Hire

• In house Welding Engineer/Steel Fabricator

• In house setting out engineer/surveyor

Fuelling UK Farms

*Offer available to 31/7/24

You are kindly invited to attend our

Tillage Demonstration Event Thursday 22nd August, 8am-3pm

VENUE – Ploughlands Farm

Maxton, Melrose TD6 0RP By kind permission of Mertoun Estates

Full lineup of equipment will be advertised in next months Agrimart or if you would like to see something specific, talk to your local salesman.

John Deere 7310R, 2020 C

John Deere 6130R, 2020

The John Deere T670 6 walker combine

Up to 15% more output than any other 6 walker combine

GRASSLAND/BALERS

John Deere 133 Mower

GRASSLAND/BALERS

John Deere V451R round baler

CROP CARE

John Deere 840i Sprayer

CROP CARE

John Deere M740 Sprayer

John Deere 133 Mower

John Deere V451R round baler

John Deere V451R round baler

John Deere V451R round baler

John Deere V451R round baler

Kuhn 3165

John Deere V451R round baler

Kuhn PZ190 Drum Mower

Kuhn 3165

Kuhn GA4121GM Windrower

Kuhn PZ190 Drum Mower

Kuhn VB2160 Baler

Kuhn GA4121GM Windrower

Kuhn FC8830D Butterflies MoCo

Kuhn VB2160 Baler

Class 3600 4 rotor Windrower

Kuhn FC8830D Butterflies MoCo

Claas Rollant 340 round baler

Class 3600 4 rotor Windrower

Claas Rollant 385RC round baler

Claas Rollant 340 round baler

Claas Volto 770 Tedder

Claas Rollant 385RC round baler

Lely 300 twin rotor Windrower

Claas Volto 770 Tedder

Logic CTF250 Weed Wiper

Lely 300 twin rotor Windrower

Pottinger HIT 540N Tedder

Kverneland CM188 Hay Mower

Logic CTF250 Weed Wiper

Kverneland FRD320 Flail mower

Pottinger HIT 540N Tedder

Kverneland CM188 Hay Mower

Major 800SM Topper

Kverneland FRD320 Flail mower

Major 909HD Topper

Watson Grass field roller

Major 800SM Topper

Major 909HD Topper

Watson Grass field roller

FARM TRAILERS

Stewart 26BT Trailer

FARM TRAILERS

Stewart PS 18-23H Trailer choice

Stewart 26BT Trailer

PS 18-23H Trailer choice

32FT

VEHICLES

John Deere XUV855M Gator, choice

John Deere XUV865M Gator, choice 2020/21

John Deere 840i Sprayer

John Deere M735 Sprayer

Deere M740 Sprayer

John Deere R962i sprayer

Deere M735 Sprayer

John Deere R952i sprayer

John Deere R962i sprayer

Deere R962i sprayer

John Deere R4040i sprayer 2021

John Deere R952i sprayer

John Deere R4040i Self-propelled

John Deere R962i sprayer

John Deere R4040i sprayer 2021

Endura maxx 400 trailed sprayer

CULTIVATION

Deere R4040i Self-propelled

John Deere R4040i Self-propelled

maxx 400 trailed sprayer

Kuhn HR4003NC 4M combination unit

Kuhn HR3004D Power Harrow

Kuhn HR4003NC 4M combination unit

Kuhn LC4000/HR4004 Combi Drill

Kuhn NC4000 Combination Drill

Kuhn HR3004D Power Harrow

Kuhn LC4000/HR4004 Combi Drill

Kuhn HRB152 Power harrow

Kuhn NC4000 Combination Drill

Kuhn Multi Leader plough MLD-7A06

Kuhn HRB152 Power harrow

Kuhn ES 85-200-30 5 furrow Plough

Kuhn Multi Leader plough MLD-7A06

DAL·BO 10.3 folding rollers

Kuhn ES 85-200-30 5 furrow Plough

Kverneland 5 FURROW Plough

DAL·BO 10.3 folding rollers

8.2 folding rollers

Kverneland 5 FURROW Plough

Vaderstad 1020 Rexuis

NRH 6M Rollers

Vaderstad 8.2 folding rollers

Flemming 12FT roller

Vaderstad 1020 Rexuis

NRH 6M Rollers

MISCELLANEOUS

Flemming 12FT roller

Kuhn 5570 Bedder feeder

MISCELLANEOUS

Kuhn 5570 Bedder feeder

John deere 900KG weight block

Bale grab

F650K Bale Grab

Excel 660 headgecutter

Combine Harvester

John Deere CTS9780i combine, 2007

John Deere S685i combine, 2017

John Deere T560 combine, 2021

John Deere T670 combine, 2017

ENRICH YOUR SOIL AND BOOST CROPS FOR FREE WHILST REMOVING CO

We spread crushed basalt rock on agricultural land, enriching soil fertility, supporting healthy crop growth and stabilising soil pH. This locally-sourced rock also removes CO2 from the atmosphere through a natural process known as enhanced rock weathering. It’s a win-win for your land and the environment.

WHAT IS BASALT ROCK?

Basalt is a mineral-rich volcanic rock that has been applied as a soil amendment for hundreds of years. It’s a product of the Scottish aggregate industry which is screened to ensure it's safe for agricultural use. Our basalt is suitable for all crops, including pasture, and has been approved for use in certified organic farming systems.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR FARMERS?

Our basalt is supplied and spread free of charge or heavily subsidised, using local contractors who know the roads and the land. Farmers can expect to see the following benefits:

Nutrient uptake: Crushed basalt releases magnesium, calcium, potassium and other nutrients, boosting soil health and making your crops more pest-resistant.

Improved soil pH: As basalt weathers, it helps maintain the target pH of the soil. Basalt delivers a slow release of alkalinity to stabilise soil pH at optimum levels for longer.

Higher crop yield: An initial trial with The University of Newcastle showed crop yield was on average 15% higher (9.3% and 20.5% between ploughed and direct drill amended plots) following the application of crushed basalt.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Farmers and landowners in the central belt of Scotland and North East Scotland.

WHY?

With the help of farmers like you, our mission is to remove 1 billion tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere to make the planet livable for future generations.

If you are interested in enriching your soils whilst removing CO2, contact Joe Ritchie on 07400 858 333 or email joe@un-do.com

CONTRACTORS SERVICES

R. WOOD & SONS

~ STAINRIGG MAINS, LEITHOLM ~ GRASS SILAGE • WHOLECROP ARABLE MIXES

USING 2 X SELF PROPELLED FORAGERS

Fitted with WHOLECROP HEADERS & GRAIN PROCESSING MILL

PART or WHOLE JOB, AG-BAG or PIT

MOWERS, TEDDER, RAKES TRAILERS, FRONT BUCKRAKES

H BIG SQUARE BALING H (Bale Chaser available)

u ALL ARABLE CULTIVATIONS

u DRILLING

u HIGH DENSITY ROUND BALING

u DGPS LIME & FERT SPREADING

u HEDGECUTTING

u SMALL SEEDS DRILLING – Einbock 12m (grass/kale/oilseed rape) CONTACT:

OFFICE : 01890 840 251

MOBILE : DAVID 07971 409 367

KENNY 07971 409 371

E.MAIL : rwoodandsons@btconnect.com

WEBSITE : www.rwoodandsons.co.uk

John Gray

Our new Mchale Fusion Vario Plus is a fully automatic variable chamber baler wrapper which can apply film or net wrap to the barrel of the bale. Delivering optimum bale shape and a high density with a 25 knife chopper unit. The advantages of a chamber film system are:

~ Acts as a wrapping layer for silage,straw or hay keeping them dry up to 6 foot diameter

~ Results in better shaped bales

~ Delivers high quality silage

~ Makes recycling easier

Should net wrap be required for hay or straw, this can be done with a simple changeover.

Perfect to bale your herbal leys

BYREWALLS FENCING

All types of Agricultural Fencing, Garden Fencing and Decking

A & E Brown, Byrewalls, Gordon, Berwickshire TD3 6JU

Contact: Andrew 07725 583737 Euan 07774 004622 Evenings 01573 410260

J.D. GILROY & SONS

Farmers, Agricultural Contractors & Samson Sales

Contracting Services

• All types of muck handling & spreading

• Fertiliser/lime spreading (variable/flat rate)

• Ploughing

• Combination drilling

• Direct drilling/pasture rejuvenation

• Silage & whole crop (clamp)

• Round baling & wrapping

• Mowing, tedding & raking

Samson Sales

• New & used muck spreaders always available

• Genuine Samson parts

White House Folly, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 2LW

Other jobs include: Topping grass

Muck spreading Combining Grass drilling Cultivating Subsoiling

Slurry spreading

High

Mowing

Windrowing Tedding

Buckraking

Bale

ANDREW DUN 07761 032 351

Combination baler wrapper, variable chamber for unbeatable bale weight

All silage work done 2 Balers leaving bales in twos

Self Drive Tractor Hire

Fendt 718 (Vario)

John Deere 6155R (Vario)

Valtra T234 w/reverse drive

Broughan 18T silage trailer

Broughan 16T dump trailer

Unimog U530

20 meter tracked cherry picker

12 meter towable cherry picker

Avant 750 compact loader

Various Avant attachments

Dipperfox SC600 Stump buster

(8 or 14 tonne excavator attachment)

Tree shears and mulchers

(8 or 14 tonne excavator attachments)

Minimum of 1 week hire

Please see website or call Gavin for more information on 07950 023813

www.gmlandsolutions.co.uk

Based near Dunfermline Delivery

be arranged

TO MINI DIGGERS 1t to 3t Micro/doorway excavators (new Bobcat E10) to 1.5t and up to 3t (Bobcat E27)

ROAD ROLLER Terex 1200 2.9t vibrating ride on, 1.2m wide

Drive away with our 3t trailers to suit or delivery by us

From £60+VAT to £90+VAT per day St Boswells

IF YOUR FARM TRACK OR FOREST ROAD NEEDS SOME ATTENTION, WE HAVE THE SKILLS, MACHINERY AND EXPERIENCE TO DELIVER A LASTING SOLUTION.

• REDUCES OR ELIMINATES THE NEED TO IMPORT MATERIALS.

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J & J Grant

Scotland’s Spreading Specialists

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High output LGP machines to minimise soil and crop damage Weighing systems and auto steer fitted

We supply our own loader and fuel to minimise disturbance to the customer Blanket or variable rate lime spreading compatible with all mapping systems The following can be supplied and accurately applied Lime, Compost, Slag, Henpen, Fibrophos, FYM, Gypsum, other organic materials

Soil Mapping service

• correct variations across fields

• independent analysis

• 4 samples/ha for accurate pH maps

• all nutrients can be tested

• recommendations to suit your enterprise

Contact us to discuss how we can help reduce your costs with the use of organic products Tel 01875 320363 Mob

Prentice Agriculture Straw and Baling Berwickshire

Choice of bale size, either; 8’ × 4’ × 3’ or 8’ × 4’ × 2.5’ Also 2 x 32ft bale trailers can be supplied if required to clear fields. Substantial quantity of barley/wheat straw in the swath required. Cleared by bale chaser where possible. For more info please contact either: Keith on 07703 199 255

CONTRACTORS SERVICES

On Our Farm

June 12th 2024

Hugo Lee farms in partnership with his father, Guy, at Sandystones, near St Boswells. Arable crops of wheat, oilseed rape, malting barley and oats are grown, 500 Angus cattle are finished annually, 8000 organic hens produce eggs for Waitrose and 8,000 organic point of lay pullets are reared each year.

CONTRACTORS

BRYCE GROUNDWORKS

• Foundations

• Sitework

• Ponds

• Arenas

This year is turning out to be one of the most testing I have experienced since I retired from rowing. The past few weeks have been a perfect example of this! The warm, dry days at the start of May were absolutely perfect growing conditions. Crops raced through their growth stages and grass growth was phenomenal. We even managed to get the ground works completed on a barn we are planning to extend. Then the heavens opened and in less than a week we had over 100mm with 50mm in one 24hr period. Lots of local roads were flooded and fields were wetter than anytime over the winter. I was kicking myself that I had not cut the silage especially as the silage fields are some of the wettest on the farm and one of them is not fully drained.

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After what seemed like an eternity - a weeks a long time in farming - the rain stopped and very cold northerly winds have been with us ever since. The ground only just dried enough for us to take our first cut of silage. There are pretty bad wheelings in places which will need rolling and a few wet holes that had to be avoided. Due to the catchy weather and trying to tie two different contractors together we eventually got all the silage in just before midnight last week. It was a very big crop and quality appears good. A huge thank you to everyone who helped to get it in.

Contact: Office 01573 440314

Stuart 07970 450720 or Jock 07970 730567

Cereals are a very mixed bag and it will be very interesting to see how they perform at harvest. Winter barely has looked good all year but the ears are not huge and it may flatter to deceive. Oilseed rape is a disaster having looked so promising; the only saving grace is the contract price which will help make up for a low yield. Wheats look ok and have just had their ear spray. They have potential if I have managed to keep septoria at bay. Spring Barley got off to a flying start but has turned horribly yellow in places over the past week. Winter organic oats look ok especially as they were drilled in

Poultry Manure, Digestate, Compost, Lime, Gypsum etc.

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Variable Rate Spreading for Lime and Manures

Organic Certificated Manure Spread onto growing crops.

Manure can be delivered by Tractor & Trailer Manure mixed with a high DM product, perfect for stockpiling and increased organic

Show season is in full swing and I hope to catch up with lots of you at the Highland show on Thursday. This year we are all going back on the Saturday for the first time as a family which they are all really excited about. We will be at the Border Union Show as usual and I hope I can encourage as many of you as possible to come to the Newtown and St Boswells District show on Saturday 20th July at Newtown St Boswell’s market. It is always a great family day out with sheep judging, vintage machinery, dog show, terrier racing and horse competitions.

Call Richard 07971 580 888 info@murrayofredden.com|www.murrayofredden.com

All

Please

A late night getting the first cut silage in

CONTRACTORS SERVICES

Here at Davidson Land Services Stores, we have a wide range of stock including:

• Consumables (Sprays, Paints, Nuts & Bolts Ect)

• Safety Boots & Clothing

• Tools and Accessories

• Chrome North West Cleaning Products

• Drainage Coils, Twinwall, MDPE & Soil Pipe

• Exol Oil, Grease, Brake Fluid Ect

• Viking Johnston Fittings

• Philmac Water Fittings

NEW JETVAC SERVICES NOW OFFERED TO COMPLEMENT OUR DRAINAGE DIVISION

Hydraulic Hose Service

We also offer a hydraulic hose repair service.

We hold a wide range of hose & fittings in stock from 1/4” to 1 1/4” 4 Wire.

We have recently upgraded our machine and are now able to crimp up to 2” 4 Wire. Unit 2-3 Rhymeers s Miill Innd Est, Mill Road, Earllston, TD4 4 6FA

Here at Davidson Land Services Stores, we have a wide range of stock including:

Blocked Drain Services • Internal unblocking of toilets & sink traps

• Consumables (Sprays, Paints, Nuts & Bolts Ect)

• External blocked drain high pressure jetting clearance

• External drain high pressure jetting of debris/tree roots/cooking fat build up

• Planned maintenance drain cleaning

• Safety Boots & Clothing

Drain CCTV Survey Services • Drain defect diagnostic • Drain survey & report

• Tools and Accessories

• Drain network mapping • CCTV survey for local water authority pre-adoption

Hydraulic Hose Service

• Manhole/inspection chamber locating • Pre-purchase drain survey

• Chrome North West Cleaning Products

JetVac Services • Up to 1000mm diameter drain jetting capacity

• Gully sucking/emptying • Flood water vacuum response

• Drainage Coils, Twinwall, MDPE & Soil Pipe

• Septic tank emptying/de-sludging

Drain Repairs/Installation Services • Excavation & repairs

• Exol Oil, Grease, Brake Fluid Ect

• Public sewer connections • Adoptable sewer installations

We also offer a hydraulic hose repair service. We hold a wide range of hose & fittings in stock from 1/4” to 1 1/4” 4 Wire.

• Pumping mains/stations installations

• Viking Johnston Fittings

Tel: Kelso 01573 225249 Mobile: 07793 361023

We have recently upgraded our machine and are now able to crimp up to 2” 4 Wire.

e-mail: enquiries@gwcwateranddrainage.co.uk

• Philmac Water Fittings

UStor Business units, Unit 8/1 Spylaw Road, Kelso TD5 8DN

AG - Bag Sealed Storage Systems

General Contracting Services

•Two high capacity mobile mills for Dry rolling & Crimping

•Ag-bagging Services

•Direct drilling / Pasture rejuvenation

•Ploughing (4 & 5) furrow

•Fertiliser spreading

•Spraying

•Topping & mulching

•Agri Haulage

•Tubelining / Bale wrapping

•Product supply : clamp sheets, silage rings, protective nets and silage additives

Contact:

Connon Construction Ltd.

Construction of shuttered slurry tanks and silos (all built to SEPA requirements)

Christopher07843 208 544

Patrick07701 040 681

Contact:

Christopher07843 208 544

Connon Farms

Greenknowe

Slurry spreading available with umbilical, dribble bars and ferry tankers. Tractors on floatation tyres

Dung spreader hire or complete service

Complete silage service

All types of digger work undertaken

Patrick07701 040 681

Connon Farms / Connon Construction

Connon Farms / Connon Construction

CONTRACTORS SERVICES

Water Related Services • Water Industry Registration Scheme Approved Utility Provider • Construction of New Water Mains & Services • Underground Water Pipe Leak Repairs • Water Treatment & Filtration System Installation & Servicing • Private Borehole Pump & Spring Water Supply System Installations

Drainage Related Services • Drain Jetting & CCTV Surveying • Deep Excavations & Repairs • Public Sewer Connections • Adoptable Sewer Installations • Domestic Pumping Station Installations • Septic & Treatment Tank Installations

Tel: Kelso 01573 225249 Mobile: 07793 361023 e-mail: enquiries@gwcwateranddrainage.co.uk

John Renton

Agricultural Engineer Tel 07774 163899

Also on-site hydraulic hose repairs

1,2,4 wire hose from 1/4” - 1”

BSP, JIC, ORFS, metric & flange fittings etc.

Trailer brake & Q/R couplings

Talking

KENNY HALL & SON

Agricultural Engineer

• Roof & Sheeting Repairs • On-site Welding

• Grain Machinery Repairs • Kit Sheds Supplied & Built

• Gates and Feeding Troughs Made to Measure

• Buildings dismantled or rebuilt • Demolition Mobile: 07740 350461

......North of the Forth June 10th 2024

Tom Pate farms 240ha of arable on a tenanted farm in Angus. Cropping includes wheat, spring barley, rye and oilseed rape along with land let for potatoes and vining peas. Additionally, around 6500 pigs are reared annually under contract and 600 Christmas turkeys sold directly to the public under the KellyBronze franchise. On his wife’s 380ha family farm in the Angus Glens they also run 200 red deer hinds plus followers for venison production, along with developing a forestry enterprise.

The past month has been a frantic blur. Too many jobs and not enough time. As expected, crops have raced through growth stages after being slow out of the blocks. Up here in Angus we’ve probably had a good combination of sun and showers to keep crops motoring. I am looking forward to harvesting the wheat. Not due to the expectation of a bumper crop, rather being able to wipe the slate clean and start again.

Spring barley is looking tremendous, probably too good. Being later sown the seed rates were adjusted upwards but it turned out to be perfect sowing conditions and every seed has germinated and tillered, resulting in a very thick canopy. The key now is to keep the crop standing to harvest. With a thicker crop the applied nitrogen will undoubtedly be diluted so nitrogen levels shouldn’t be an issue for the maltsters. So, it’s really only skinning, germination and screenings we have to worry about! Earlier in the month I managed to scratch in some clover seed into existing leys. These paddocks are rotationally grazed by the yearling deer and increasing the clover is a key priority. Scratching the seed in can be a bit hit and miss but with good ground conditions and regular showers I am hopeful this attempt will be successful. Silage will be made in mid-June following an application of Squire Ultra herbicide to clean up dockens requiring a 21-day cutting interval. Highland Show week is the normal first cut timing up the glen. It also marks the arrival of the turkey chicks. So whilst you are enjoying the show spare a thought for me stuck at home in the brooding shed. The biggest laugh I had in the past month was reading in the media an article entitled “Bison helping to tackle climate change”. It details a reintroduction project in Romania where 170 European Bison have been released into the Tarcu Mountains. The article details how the bison not only help biodiversity but also have a positive impact on climate change. Apparently the grass the large ruminants graze absorb 54,000 tonnes of carbon each year, their poo helps fertilise the soil and their weight helps press down the soil helping to stop carbon dioxide being released. Brilliant! Amazing! Fantastic!

I don’t think it has dawned on the journalist or the editorial team the irony that they have so often blamed cattle for being climate change enemy number one. Many cattle in Scotland do exactly what these bison do but also have the rather nifty additional benefit of producing food. I await the same newspapers carrying articles entitled “Cattle helping to tackle climate change”.

Wishing you all a sunny June to fill the grain and grow the grass.

Pig shed required a full muck out and powerwash in June

Grass harrow and seeder at work

Timber being loaded as felling continues

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Talking......New Zealand

June 9th 2024

Ian Mackenzie is an arable and dairy farmer from the Canterbury Plain in the South Island of New Zealand. He runs a number of fully irrigated intensive cropping farms, producing grain, vegetable and grass seeds with some stock finishing.

The end of May marks the end of milking for the season, drying the cows off and gypsy day. This is when cows are trucked or walked to winter grazing, farms change hands and share milkers and their staff often change jobs. In the dairy farming districts this usually involves large numbers of families packing up all their possessions and moving house, school and district; and large herds of cows walking to their wintering ground.

Two years ago Hamish walked his cows up to our wintering block 16kms up country which involves crossing SH1, (the main road) and the railway line. The cows do the walk very comfortably but despite an experienced team of stockmen, the cows balked at crossing the railway line and the herd split, some heading to Timaru, others headed for Christchurch while others fancied the idea of heading home. Meanwhile traffic on SH1 backed up for miles in both directions. It is fair to say there was some stress registered. Since then we’ve trucked them.

William’s contracting business has over the last few years morphed into trucking. He runs 4 rigs. Over the spring and summer months his trucks are committed to shifting bales of silage and straw for baling contractors, but as we go into autumn the stock crates go on. He tells me his team moved over 3000 cows around gypsy day including Hamish’s. Gypsy day of course means the dairy farm is pretty much shut down for the winter and it is a good time to catch up on fencing maintenance.

A much better post driver!

I bought a new post driver a few years ago so that I could be useful in my old age.

Putting in new posts on a neglected fence line reminded me of helping Hugh, Guy’s father, on their wee Hampshire farm sometime in the 70’s. Hugh was a very lovely gentleman who had a passion for very old and dangerous agricultural toys. As part of earning my keep he asked me to do some fencing for him. He very proudly told me he had a post driver and that it was an easy job. On inspection the post driver was clearly the poorly designed prototype of the 1st ever driver. It involved a very wobbly monkey cranked up and down by the square linked chains usually found as part of the drive system on old horse drawn seed drills. Nevertheless, Hugh was immensely proud of this death trap and went off to his job in London feeling confident that he’d have a new fence and I’d barely need to break into a sweat to build it. I think the chain broke lifting the monkey for the 2nd post. Luckily no-one was permanently maimed and I finished the fence line by digging the post holes. Hugh was, I think, happy with the fence but was clearly disappointed that the antipodian had failed to master the engineering masterpiece that was the post driver! If you are listening Hugh, these new post drivers are genuinely really good!

Stanton, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 2AD, UK

The cow shifting fleet

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Talking......from Lincolnshire

June 10th 2024

Will Howe is an arable farmer from Sleaford, Lincolnshire. The soils are predominantly heavy. There is 500ha of cropping including winter wheat, spring beans, spring oats and oilseed rape. He also manages a contracting business Thorpe Farming Ltd.

It is damp, it is cool and the spring oats are growing like Fury. Well a bit more like Usyk in fact. They are absolutely motoring now which heralded a phone call from a nervous agronomist querying the amount of nitrogen I had applied. They had received 95kgN/ha, as I was recommended to do by said agronomist, but the damp and windy weather meant the growth regulator had been delayed. With 700 acres of spring oats I am quite keen for them not to go flat…

This spring has brought a worryingly poor performance from glyphosate. So much so that in some areas we have had to reapply it. We have tried different concentrations, various adjuvants, different water volumes and applying at different times of day, all of which appear to be making very little difference. The hope is, that this is, just a seasonal blip, but it is something I will be looking into in far more detail in the coming months. The only place where we had an amazing kill was behind the sprayer wheels where the plant had obviously been physically damaged. The concern is that as we plant fields before the effects of the glyphosate pass can be seen, if the glyphosate is not working adequately, we will then have some major headaches. Some liquid N in with the glyphosate mix might be the easiest option and is fine in the Spring but would not be an option for the autumn. We are down to the last day and a half’s archaeological trench backfilling at home. It has been a horrible process. All the spoil has been spread and turned to allow it to dry, before being backfilled. The wet spring has not been a help at all with some trenches having to be pumped of water three times before they can be filled and the digger drivers are slowly losing their sense of humour. After backfilling we are planting a cover crop to try and dry the land out. Under the chopped straw the land is like plasticine which rules out any cultivations, so we are just direct drilling a mix of all sorts added to some oats. Sadly, given the conditions the slugs are having a field day and eating everything other than the oats. There is a very stark contrast between the success of the cover crop on bare land, versus the struggles on land with retained stubble and covers. I am not sure the government are aware of this with their push to retain residues and minimise cultivations. Once the covers have hopefully done their job and removed some moisture the summer will be spent dragging pigtail cultivators and subsoilers round the farm trying to level out all the humps and bumps and restore the farm to its former glories, or certainly close to them. Lets pray for some sun!

Poor roundup control

Drying trench spoil with the scrapman’s dream!

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Talking......Business with Bell Rural Solutions June 2024

Michael Bell is Managing Director of Bell Rural Solutions, based in their office in Earlston. Michael provides professional advice to clients on a variety of issues throughout Scotland and Northern England, is a Member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, an RICS Registered Valuer and Agent for the AMC. Agricultural Reform and Changes to Support Payments

News released during the 2024 BPS Application window may have been missed by many who were getting their spring sowing done, lambing, calving or just completing and submitting their 2024 Single Application Form. With the introduction of a new framework for agricultural support in 2027, the first changes will come into effect from 2025 and we need to start preparing for change now. At least half of all funding for farming will be targeted towards outcomes for biodiversity gain and climate mitigation and adaption. This is to improve the resilience, efficiency and profitability of the sector. Your schemes aren’t changing in 2025, but some of the things you will have to do to receive support are new.

Cross Compliance - New peatland and wetland standards will be added to GAEC 6 - Maintenance of soil organic matter. These standards will prohibit a range of activities including ploughing and cultivation; new drainage and maintenance of existing drainage systems that causes further drying out of the peatland and activities that cause damage to the vegetation cover exposing the soil. This will apply to land with peat soils more than 50 cm in depth with a near natural vegetative cover and also to wetland habitats.

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (SSBSS) - Calves will only be eligible for payment if their dam has a calving interval threshold of 410 days or less, or if the calf is the first registered birth associated with that dam. The calving interval threshold may reduce in future years, but it will not reduce by more than 10 days in any given year. All animals claimed from the 2025 scheme year onward will be subject to the new calving interval conditions, regardless of their year of birth.

Start Preparing for the Whole Farm Plan - The more you understand about your farm, the more productive and profitable your business can be, and the more you can contribute to Scotland’s climate, biodiversity and emissions targets. This is the foundation of the Whole Farm Plan which will become a condition of future support.

In 2025, in return for your basic payments, you will be expected to have started carrying out plans and audits that are relevant to your business. You will be asked to confirm on your SAF that you have done at least two of the following baseline activities: Carbon Audit / Biodiversity Audit / Soil Analysis / Animal Health & Welfare Plan / Integrated Pest Management Plan Grants are still available through Preparing for Sustainable Farming and The Farm Advisory Service for some of the above activities. You can also use the free Scottish Integrated Pest Management Assessment Plan. Act now and be prepared for 2025.

Detailed guidance on the changes for 2025 and more information about the actions farmers will need to take in 2026 will be announced in summer 2024.

For more information, please get in touch with Michael Bell on 01896 802252, 07584 644246 or mbell@bellruralsolutions.com

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Talking

Organic

June 12th 2024

Simon Bainbridge farms in partnership with his wife Claire and his parents, Ivan and Elisabeth in Northumberland. They run suckler beef, sheep and laying hen enterprises across 650 ha of mainly SDA and moorland - organically. By the time I come to write this article next month, we will know which party (or parties) is in power and whether we have a new Prime Minister or not. I don’t think I’ve ever been so undecided on how I should vote before, and unclear on who the good guys are – if there are any?

It’s definitely time for a change but are we better off with the devil we know rather than the unknown, probably not, but from a farming perspective the conservatives have, in the last 12 months or so produced their National farming policy and are delivering on it (eventually) – its working for some, but admittedly not for all. The schemes currently in place are not fit for purpose for those with contracting businesses, nor upland and tenant farms and it is causing significant problems for those sectors.

Economically farming always seems to do better under a Labour Government, but as I write this, there’s still no sign of a Labour Manifesto to assess what their views are on farming and crucially food production. The Shadow DEFRA secretary is Steve Reed, who is candidate for the Streatham & Croydon North constituency. I’m not sure how much farming knowledge Steve has, but Croyden is miles away (not only geographically) from our farming world in the Northumberland uplands. The Lib Dems manifesto is out, and with ex NFU Stuart Roberts hoping to be elected as an MP, there was always going to be good intel on the farming picture. However locally, it seems to be very much a choice between Blue and Red. I believe that whichever way the wind blows, we as a community will need to engage with whoever is elected to highlight how important farming and food production is - as we all know its often the forgotten policy.

On a farm level, it’s all systems go in the race to get our silage pit up and finished before we start cutting. At the minute grass growth seems to come to a halt, so we may be completed in time! We have treated all the calves for Cocci and completed doing all the lambs for Nematodirus and are busy assessing worm egg counts to see what action we might need to take next. New hens are coming into lay nicely at the moment, but a few are choosing to lay on the floor, so its constant walking of the birds to try and stop this becoming a habit. The older hens are at 65 weeks of age, and have laid exceptionally well, but we are starting to see the effects of hard-working hens and need to manage them carefully. We have one Galloway left to calve, and we have calved everything in little over two months which is really pleasing. Now the focus moves to next year, with the Bulls heading out next week.

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Contact: Gavin  S.  Murray  Threipland Agricultural  Engineer

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Contact: Gavin  S.  Murray  Threipland Agricultural  Engineer

Phone:  (01450)  379  885  (evenings) Mob:    07802  201 612

Hawick

Contact: Gavin  S.  Murray  Threipland Agricultural  Engineer

Phone:  (01450)  379  885  (evenings) Mob:    07802  201 612

Hawick

Phone:  (01450)  379  885  (evenings) Mob:

07802  201 612

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e mail:   threngineering1@btinternet.com

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Talking......from the boundary

June 12th 2024

Last month I wrote about the process of importing high risk products of animal origin (ie eggs for hatching and day old chicks) into the UK since we have left the EU. On April 30th Border Control Posts became operational, what happened on May 6th/7th when the first load we imported was called for inspection was our worst nightmare. The lorry arrived at Sevington (the inspection point for Dover and Folkestone) at 8pm, it had two drivers as the plan was to deliver eggs to customers through the night and arrive at the hatchery at 7am on Tuesday morning to collect day old chicks. It was detained for 24 hours only being released at 7.30pm on Tuesday evening. It took the intervention of a director of Ashford Borough Council for common sense to prevail. Not once in those 24 hours were we told why it had been held, it seemed to be a case of computer says ‘NO’. An overzealous Eastern European vet was not prepared to sign off the goods despite them being of a sensitive and fragile nature. It took a huge amount of reorganization to get the chicks delivered to the intended customers. Since then all imports have gone through without issue, apart from one hold up last week when the invoice accompanying all the necessary paperwork did not have the declaration of eggs correctly typed with the Latin name!

I have never known so many sets of traffic lights and roads closed as I have encountered this year. We set off last month to drive South with our bikes for a 3 day cycle ride round the Isle of Wight. We had only been driving for one mile when we came across 3 way lights on such a minor road that everyone ignored the red light as there was never any traffic. Before we got to the M6 (a 50 mile journey) we had stopped at 5 sets of roadworks. Last week the A68 had four way lights in St Boswells because a man hole had collapsed on the side of the road. It could have been bollarded off and vehicles could have driven round it instead of miles of queues and delay. Yesterday I made a delivery East of the A1, my journey there was lengthened by 30 minutes with a closed road, so I decided to come back via Berwick to find another road closed, and when I eventually reached home our road was also shut!

I suppose we shouldn’t complain about potholes and resurfacing in one sentence.

Guy Lee

My father’s infamous post basher Ian Mackenzie had a life threatening experience with! See page 46

Approximately 3-4 acres with vehicle access. To be used for my dog walking business. Do not require or seek

Looking for somewhere in St Boswells, Newtown, Melrose, Earlston, Lauder, Selkirk, Galashiels or nearby surrounding areas. Contact Jennie on 07367 582 835 or email me on contact@jenniesk9crew.co.uk

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Berwick 01289 304432 - Patrick Playfair

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