Chopping is always about performance. Performing especially well. With results which are qualitatively and quantitatively convincing. We are also about versatility. We want optimum performance and maximum efficiency –no matter what the application. Are you wondering how you can achieve this goal? The answer is the Fendt Katana. More information at fendt.com/katana
OUT & ABOUT
With the Farmers Guide team
FG’s director Greg Goulding is pictured with the Melton Young Farmers Club in Su olk. Greg talked to the Su olk-based Young Farmers Club about the history of the business, including how the magazine was founded by Doug Potts in the 70s, and then passed to his daughters Jane and Julie. Greg was assisted by Doug’s original diary notes, which documented the trials and tribulations of starting a business at 50 years old.
at www.fruitandvine.co.uk
And finally...
A farmer popped to his local pub, where he started chatting with the landlord. Eventually the topic got around to Donald Trump and his role as president. The old farmer said: “Well, as I see it, Donald Trump is like a ‘Post Tortoise’.’’
Not familiar with the term, the landlord asked what a ‘Post Tortoise’ was. The farmer said: “When you’re driving down a country road and you come across a fence post with a tortoise balanced on top, that’s a Post Tortoise.”
Seeing the puzzled look on the doctor’s face, he continued:. “You know he didn’t get up there by himself, he doesn’t belong up there, he doesn’t know what to do while he’s up there, he’s elevated beyond his ability to function, and you just wonder what kind of idiot put him up there to begin with.”
FG's Daniel Hodge and Patrick Over visited Denbies Wine Estate for a demo of a revolutionairy frost and pest protection system. Pictured with Frosco owner George Klat, read more
Last month, machinery reporter Daniel Hodge spent a couple of days in France testing out Can-Am's latest ATVs. He's pictured with (l-r): BRP senior advisor consumer experience, Olaf Veltman; BRP business development manager utility market, Aymeric Collot; BRP country marketing lead, Tobias Heimhalt; and public relations advisor, Peter Trampert. You'll nd Daniel's full write-up on page 59.
“So, you going anywhere nice on your holidays this year darlin'?”
Dorset grassland farmer Tim Burt has been planting trees on his land thanks to funding from the Woodland Trust – nd out more on page 44. He's pictured with FG's marketing manager, Patrick Over.
Machinery contributor David Williams paid a visit to Yorkshire-based manufacturer Sumo to discuss the company's British-built designs and ambitions for the future. Pictured (l-r) are: Sumo UK territory sales manager, Philip Stevenson; managing director, Steve Ridley; marketing manager, Sophie Theakston; David Williams; head of engineering and quality, Tim Lord; dealer support manager, Charles Harvey; and production manager, Mitchell Clarke.
Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge visited Oliver Landpower's Stratford depot for its inaugural open day. He's pictured with managing director Charlie Glenister. Turn to page 65 to read the full report.
Are US tari s the wake-up call we all need?
There have been a few occasions in my career when I have longed for a crystal ball and now might just be one of them, writes Cecilia Pryce, Open eld’s head of research, compliance and shipping. Predicting what the market will and can do next is very similar to a jigsaw but without the picture. You look for the knowns, the four corners then the sides and then the easy colour matches. Currently I feel that we are dealing with a forest in full leaf.
It’s tough for almost everyone but, as I say, if it doesn’t feel right and you can’t identify what’s wrong, maybe, just maybe, there’s a fundamental shift about to take place. These shifts often are short lived – recent examples include Covid-19 and the immediate reactions around the con ict in Ukraine, but it’s then a case of identifying the exact impact – is it regional, national or global?
industry. If you drop consumption, you drop production of vitals such as CO2 and by-products; if you raise prices, the knock-on e ect is felt in every household.
What many don’t understand is that every country around the world deals with tari s in a di erent way. When you trade grain, you have to always consider any export taxes, licences and import licences, taxes alongside phytosanitary requirements.
Slowly the market will embrace the issue and correct for the shift but negotiations on tari s is a delicate operation and can mean that one moment trade between countries stops, then as if by magic, opens up again.
As a rule, it’s never a good idea to add tari s to food and feed stu s. Ultimately the world needs commodities – be that for humans, livestock or
wakeup call we all need, meaning we should all focus on what matters and look after our own back garden.
Fertiliser matters
Taxes come in many forms – be that a cargo tax for a ship to berth, through to ensuring buyers have an import licence for the cargo. In reality the customs authorities around the world have just become amazingly busy and the next issue I foresee is logistic backlogs as everyone deals with the paperwork.
Early May can be a good time to start thinking about fertiliser requirements for the coming new season. Some products could be in limited supply for the early season campaign, as we continue to see the e ects of reduced production rates due to high input costs, advises Open eld fertiliser manager Lucy Hassall.
This uncertainty is likely to mean that many more buyers become ‘just in time purchasers’ and many shipping contracts will ensure that there’s a big clause that states export taxes and licences will be for sellers’ account and any import taxes and licences will be for buyers’ account. This ultimately may also reduce interest in trading on deferred positions unless you have a con dence that your counterpart’s country is your country’s best friend.
The UK and its proximity to Europe is a classic example of this, but if the EU and the US have a di erent set of trade rules to the UK where does that leave goods being shipped to Northern Ireland? Maybe it focuses more attention back to buying from mainland UK, but for goods such as maize and soya, all we can do is sit back and watch.
In reality, never has food security been more important for any country and maybe it’s the
It’s important to remember sulphur when planning requirements, a nutrient which is often overlooked. Sulphur, along with nitrogen, is essential for the formation of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Sulphur is also involved in photosynthesis, overall energy metabolism, and carbohydrate production.
Plants need su cient levels of sulphur to be able to utilise nitrogen e ciently, which can lead to improved crop quality and higher yields. Sulphur should be applied little and often to match crop growth due to it being prone to leaching. There are prolonged release sulphur products available such as polysulphate, which release to match crop uptake and minimise the risk of leaching. FG
Cecilia Pryce, head of research, compliance & shipping.
Lucy Hassall, Open eld’s fertiliser manager.
Overseas shearers welcome in the UK
The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has announced that after months of lobbying, international sheep shearers have a special concession to be able to enter the UK in 2025, meaning that we can again access this vital source of professional and experienced sta to assist UK contractors during the shearing season.
The minister for migration and citizenship agreed to the concession for sheep shearers for a period of one year to cover this shearing season (1st April–30th June) and a Ministerial Authorisation came into force on 10th April 2025.
Jill Hewitt, NAAC chief executive said: “Sheep shearing is a skilled and physical profession and, whilst we have an excellent resource of UK shearers, NAAC contractors still rely on an input of overseas shearers to carry out an estimated 20% of UK shearing.
“This vital scheme is well-managed to ensure that professional overseas shearers can enter the UK, for a limited period, to help get the 15 million sheep shorn to high standards of animal welfare.”
The US imposes 10% tari on all UK exports to the US
President Trump recently announced that the US would be implementing at least a 10% tari on all imports e ective from 5th April 2025.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has conducted some initial analysis on the US imposing the 10% tari on UK exports.
Jess Corsair, AHDB senior economist, said: “These announcements go against the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which aims to facilitate free, predictable and smooth global trade. The new imposed tari s will increase barriers to trade globally. [...]
“Further clari cation is needed regarding how these tari s will be implemented alongside current FTAs, quotas and agreements. AHDB will be monitoring this and doing more in-depth analysis on the implication of the tari s on global trade and the economy.”
The UK exports to the US include:
• £2.9M of fresh and frozen beef (three-year average 2022-24)
• £23M of pork (three-year average 2022-24)
• £68M of cheese (three-year average 2022-24).
JCB farm machinery dealer expands
RSM Beare, JCB’s agricultural dealer covering east Cornwall and midto south Devon, has expanded its operations to now cover all of Cornwall with the addition of the former Truro Farm Machinery depot and sta following the retirement of TFM owner Bob Jones. The move has ensured seamless continuity of JCB customer sales, parts and service support in
the area, and continued employment of the TFM team.
John Smith, JCB Agriculture managing director, supported the move: “These neighbouring JCB dealers have a very successful track record with an excellent reputation for service, so we are very supportive of the agreement that has created a larger, more sustainable Beares operation
supporting JCB customers in south-west England.”
All 12 sta members at TFM have transferred to the expanded business and continue to operate from the premises at Mitchell, situated on the A30 between Truro and Newquay.
The area of north Devon, covered by JCB dealer Robert Cole Ltd at Holsworthy, is una ected by the change.
New ultra-shallow tillage combination from Amazone
The topic of soil tillage is becoming more and more signi cant in agriculture on many farms. The bigger the problems of lack of moisture, chemical resistance and the requirement for reducing the amount of plant protection agents used, the more important the right means of soil tillage becomes. Emphasis is being placed on the initial stubble cultivation.
To meet these demands for ultra-shallow soil tillage, Amazone has developed the
What does the new family of SIP STAR rotary rakes bring to the table?
3-Year SIP Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with a comprehensive 3-year warranty on all SIP products.
TopCut 12000-2T cutting roller combination in a working width of 12m. It consists of up to three consecutive tool segments plus a rear segment that can be equipped with various di erent tools to suit the customer’s needs.
Pictured (l-r) are: David and Shaun Roberts of RSM Beare, Bob Jones, and Nick Chard, JCB Agriculture Southwest area manager at the Truro depot.
Ed Keene Member for 48 years Crops & Horticulture
Karen Cox
Luke Cox
Wonga Matubatuba Member for 5 years Dairy
Richard Rogers Member for 21 years Dairy
Farmland market active, but buyers more cautious
The farmland market in England remains active, with early indications suggesting the prices achieved in the rst quarter of 2025 are broadly in line with late 2024.
Sam Holt, head of estates & farm agency for Strutt & Parker, says: “There has been a slight shift in the market, with sentiment inevitably
being in uenced by factors such as the inheritance tax changes, pause in the Sustainable Farming Incentive and pressure on farming incomes. However, while this is having some in uence on supply and demand, the impact is not dramatic and prices have been holding rm.”
Mr Holt said buyers remain active, but are
New HE qualifications support the future of farming in Wales
Coleg Cambria unveiled Higher National Certi cate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes aimed at the next generation of farm managers, shepherds, farmers, and leaders in the sector.
Based at the college’s Llysfasi site, near Ruthin – which recently unveiled the £10M Hwb Arloesi (Innovation Hub) and
submitted plans for a 50-bedroom student accommodation building –the courses include modules on a wide range of subjects.
Among them are Business and Business Environment, Managing a Successful Project, Principles of Livestock Production, Animal Health and Welfare, Land-based Machinery and Technology, and Rural
becoming more selective. Location remains key, with demand also stronger for commercial farms with high quality soils. The market is slower in more remote areas with few diversi cation opportunities and for farms with a large residential element, which re ects broader trends in the housing market.
Norfolk agricultural dealer announces closure
After 46 years, the directors of Johnson Bros (Fakenham) Ltd have made the decision to close the family business at the end of June 2025. This decision was made following the imminent retirement of managing director Mike Stokes (pictured above right) and the ongoing health issues of nance director Libby Moore (above left), along with the downward trend of the agricultural industry.
Business Administration and Accounting.
Cambria’s dean of access and higher education (HE) Emma Hurst said: “These quali cations provide students with a broad knowledge base, higher technical skills and opportunities to go on and pursue a wide range of careers within land-based industries.”
UK agricultural tractor registrations – March 2025
March is usually the peak month for registrations of new agricultural tractors in the UK and it looks like this year is no exception, with 1,466 machines logged, the most in any month since the same time last year, reports AEA. That total was down by nearly a quarter, compared with March 2024, though, and was the lowest figure for the time of year since 2016. That meant the total number of tractors registered in the first quarter of 2025 was the lowest since 2001, reaching
2,228, 23% lower than in January to March 2024.
Month: 1,466 units -24.4% change (compared
with March 2024).
Year to date: 2,228 units -22.9% change (compared with January–March 2024).
The workshop will continue to carry repairs through to the end of May 2025, but will not take on/accept any further repair jobs after that date.
The parts department will continue trading through to May 31st 2025 and for a short period after, items can be purchased from existing stock.
Details of a full sale will be advertised in due course. The directors have con rmed that the company is solvent, and all the sta will be supported during this time.
Mike stated that after 60 years in the industry this decision was not taken lightly. He would like to express on behalf of the company his sincere thanks to all the sta , past and present, customers and distributors that have supported the company over the past years, allowing the company to develop into a well-respected business. Any queries regarding the closure should be directed to mike@johnson-bros.co.uk
Omex updates EU-registered Kelpak formulation for UK
Omex’s bio-stimulant Kelpak is now available with the European CE mark for Registered Biostimulants (PFC Cat 6), which provides the added assurance of an o cial veri cation for a high-quality, approved, and regulated product.
Kelpak is trusted for its proven ability to support crop resilience, enhance root development, and improve quality and yield. Now, with its registered status, farmers can be further assured of its e cacy. The European CE mark highlights Kelpak’s compliance with stringent regulatory standards, ensuring that growers bene t from a reliable and consistently e ective biostimulant.
For more information about the updated Kelpak formulation, visit www.omex.co.uk
• Finance from £10k to £5m
• Excellent rates
• 3 Month to 20 year terms
• Tax Efficient
• Simple, quick phone application
• Decision within 24 hours
• Bad credit history, large debts
– No problem!
• High street banks unsupportive
• Tenant farmers welcome
Please ring George Bridgman on 07522 731193 or email george.bridgman@abfltd.co.uk or apply on line at www.abfltd.co.uk
Systemic Nitrogen Fixation Fits Your Farm
Harnessing the power of NITROGEN
(NUE). Its digital agronomy platform, FieldSense, helps agronomists and farmers manage soil health, select the right nutrient solutions, and maximise their e ectiveness in the eld.
Encera has stood out in ProCam’s trials, showing it can replace 30kg/ha of soil-applied nitrogen in crops like cereals while maintaining yield. This is particularly important in maize production, where nitrogen demand is high late in the season when weather conditions may limit nitrogen uptake from the soil. Encera provides a reliable and cost-e ective solution to mitigate these challenges.
A revolutionary product is set to transform UK farming, providing crops with a season-long, always-available nitrogen supply, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers and improving sustainability.
Natural solution to nitrogen management
The principle behind this innovation is already well understood in agriculture. Legumes such as peas and beans utilise soil bacteria called rhizobia to capture atmospheric nitrogen, converting it into a plant-friendly form. Now, researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a breakthrough – another bacteria that can do the same job across all crop types.
At the core of this advancement is Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (Gd), the key ingredient in Encera, a bio-fertiliser brought to market by Azotic Technologies Limited. With its headquarters in York and manufacturing in Teesside, Azotic has partnered with ProCam to roll out this innovative technology to UK farmers. Already widely adopted, Encera was the third most-used bio-fertiliser in North America in 2023* and has demonstrated proven results across more than two million acres of farmland globally.
When applied as a foliar spray, the Gd bacteria colonise every plant cell – above and below ground – turning each one into a miniature nitrogen production unit. This ensures a continuous, self-su cient nitrogen supply throughout the season, mitigating the risks associated with traditional nitrogen applications.
Key benefits for UK growers
According to ProCam, Encera o ers UK farmers signi cant advantages:
• Optimised nitrogen use – Drives maximum growth and yields
Nitrogen is everywhere – making up nearly 80% of the air we breathe – yet most crops can’t access this abundant, free resource. But what if they could?
• Regulation-friendly – Encera- xed nitrogen is not subject to NVZ regulations, o ering exibility in nutrient management. Another major bene t is its resilience to environmental stress. Drought conditions often limit a plant’s ability to absorb soil nitrogen, leading to nutrient de ciencies and yield loss. Since Encera enables crops to x their own nitrogen, it ensures consistent growth and productivity, even in challenging weather conditions, ProCam says.
Proven
performance in UK fields ProCam UK has been extensively trialling biofertilisers to improve Nutrient Use E ciency
ProCam South West agronomist Guy Peters, who applied Encera across 800ha of maize in 2024, highlights its bene ts, stating: “2024 was a challenging year for maize agronomy, but Encera consistently improved green leaf retention and overall yield and quality.”
His colleague Barry Mills echoes this sentiment, adding: “We used Encera across various maize locations, from dairy farm forage maize to arable grain production. It was easy to integrate into herbicide programmes, and customers saw clear bene ts – higher yields, improved starch levels, and better forage energy density. A cost-e ective, crop- and planetfriendly source of nitrogen.”
Future of sustainable crop nutrition
Encera’s exibility makes it an easy t within existing farm management practices. It is fully compatible with common herbicide, fungicide, and insecticide mixes, and can be applied whenever conditions are warm enough (above 10°C).
As UK farmers seek to balance productivity with environmental responsibility, bio-fertilisers like Encera o er a practical solution to improving NUE and reducing dependence on synthetic inputs.
For more information on optimising maize yields and improving Nutrient Use E ciency with bio-fertilisers, contact your local ProCam agronomist or visit www.procam.co.uk FG
*(Source: Stratus Ag Research Report, 2023)
Treated trial (left) versus untreated trial (right).
emergence spray, it’s then crucial to be walking the crop regularly and see what weeds come through.
You are inevitably going to have some broadleaved weeds and, in some situations, growers will need a herbicide mix with activity on grassweeds.
A three-way mix of Osorno (mesotrione), Fornet 6 OD (nicosulfuron) and Diva (pyridate) covers all bases, with the three actives complementing each other well.
Mesotrione boosts residual control, nicosulfuron is e ective on grassweeds and a range of broad-leaved weeds, and Diva o ers broad-spectrum contact activity.
In Certis Belchim trials, pyridate in a three-way mix always improves control of a wide range of competitive weeds, compared to mesotrione and nicosulfuron alone, particularly cranesbill, mayweed, and fat hen.
Optimise weed control in maize
Step 1: Identify targets and take action early
The six weeks post crop emergence are critical to forage maize crop performance, as plants are so sensitive to competition from weeds for water and nutrients. If left unchecked during this period, yield losses can reach 50%.
This makes a pre-emergence herbicide important, as it holds weeds back and limits the impact of any delay in post-emergence spraying. It also sensitises target weeds and improves e cacy of follow-up sprays.
The most damaging species include polygonums such as knotgrass, black nightshade, mayweed, orache and fat hen. Black-grass and annual meadow grass are also problematic in some regions.
It’s important to know which species are present, as this can have a bearing on which herbicides you choose once the crop is in the ground.
Plenty of growers are planting on their own land, so will have an idea about eld history, but there is still a lot of maize grown by contractors on rented land.
This presents its own challenge in knowing what species are there and, in such situations, the case for a pre-emergence spray is strengthened.
The company’s work has also shown that pyridate is a safer addition to the tank than dicamba, which when applied in hot conditions can check the crop signi cantly.
Finally, apply herbicide mixtures when weeds are small to get the best control. In most scenarios, you only get one post-emergence hit, so don’t ask too much of the chemistry.
Step 3: Adapt to the season
Since February, it’s been very dry across the UK. Bear in mind that pendimethalin is relatively insoluble, so if you are faced with low soil moisture, it might be worth delaying your rst spray.
Growers have the option of going early postemergence, adding a contact herbicide like Diva to a residual like pendimethalin to take out any emerged weeds. This mix needs to be applied from the two true leaf stage of the crop.
A holding spray can buy you a bit of time early on, so you can see what is left behind, then you can deal with what’s there before any di cult weeds get away.
If taking this approach, it is best to follow with an Osorno + Fornet 6 OD + Diva mix where you have broad-leaved weeds and grassweeds, or just Osorno + Diva where broad-leaved weeds are the only target.
Step 2: Design your herbicide programme
Either straight pendimethalin or Wing-P (pendimethalin + dimethenamid P) preemergence are solid, broad-spectrum foundations to a maize weed control programme.
Following your pre-
When using any mesotrione product like Osorno, make sure you are aware of the following crop restrictions in both autumn and spring after the season of application. More information can be found on the product label. FG
When using any mesotrione product of the following crop restrictions in both autumn and spring after information can be found on the
LEMKEN hoeing machine EC-WEEDER
The LEMKEN EC-Weeder is a true all-rounder among hoes. It is suitable for all crops that are cultivated in rows and can be individually con gured to suit the location thanks to a wide range of tool options
WILES 07901 856734
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Representative example: MASTER mounted sprayer on a 1+2 scheme. £32,904rrp, Finance available on £16,452.
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Products and services are subject to eligibility, status, terms and conditions and availability. All lending is subject to status and our lending criteria. The right to decline any application is reserved.
Initial payment £5,484 plus VAT of £3,290.40
Followed by 2 payments of £5,484 on month 12 and 24.
Total amount payable £16,452 plus VAT
MECHANICAL HOEING an e ective option for maize weed control
Mechanical weeding is particularly e ective postemergence and when weeds are at the seedling stage.
“We have seen a growing level of interest in the use of our Robocrop precision guided hoes for use on maize crops,” explains Jonathan Henry, managing director of Garford Farm Machinery.
This interest mirrors the ndings of recent research, revealing that non-chemical approaches to weed control, including the mechanical
With growers looking to reduce herbicide reliance, mechanical weeding represents a cost-e ective and sustainable weed control measure in maize crops.
inter-row hoe, have the potential to help o -set herbicide resistance, and substantially reduce reliance on herbicides in conventional broadacre arable crops.
“Our advanced Robocrop guidance system guides our hoes accurately between maize rows, typically drilled with a row spacing of 75cm, allowing for e cient inter-row weed control,”
Mr Henry adds.
In addition to inter-row cultivators, the Garford
hooded sprayer range can also provide targeted weed management between maize rows, without soil disturbance.
The Robocrop guidance system from Garford allows for accurate and e cient hoeing and chemical application for both in row and interrow weed management and prevention control. The system uses video cameras and image analysis computers to locate crop position and then guide the hoes quickly and accurately.
With over 20 years of hoeing experience, and having bought many innovations to market, Garford is recognised as the industry leader in precision mechanical weed control.
“As agrochemicals are withdrawn from the market, more and more maize growers are beginning to appreciate hoes as a more appropriate solution, as a component of a weed management strategy,” concludes Mr Henry. FG
Impressive frame height
Väderstad’s Extract mechanical weeder comes in two models; the trailed Extract L 16-48 and the mounted Extract V 8-36.
One challenge in mechanical weeding is crop height, as low frame heights can damage taller crops. The Extract addresses this with a “market-leading” frame height of 80cm, allowing for a
longer weeding season.
As machines grow wider, headland management becomes increasingly important. To prevent the inter-row weeder from damaging crops in irregular headlands, the Väderstad Extract includes a section lift function. Using GPS, this feature lifts individual rows to a height of 75cm.
The Extract is equipped with 3D cameras, which maintain precision by monitoring and guiding the machine based on a 3D image of three rows of plants. This allows the cultivator to pass as close as 3cm from the main crop. For well-established crops like maize, a mechanical row steering option can be added, controlled by two rows of the crop.
The 12m Extract L features a frame that supports two independent 6m sections. This ensures accurate performance over two 6-m planter passes. The machine’s camera technology guides each section independently, eliminating the risk of crop damage, even if the connection between planter passes is not perfectly aligned. FG
In-cab control system
According to Nigel Bullock of Bullock Tillage, pneumatic airseeders have increased in popularity due to the uptake of SFI and Stewardship options which often require areas to be seeded for winter bird feed etc but are not resulting in a cash crop to be sold. To establish such areas, farmers are tting airseeders to their existing cultivation machines to avoid the expense of using their main line seed drill and the consequential costs of wearing parts.
Bullock Tillage has launched a new series of airseeders called the BTS range. They are available with 180, 270, 340 or 400-litre hoppers. All BTS seeders come complete with 25m of pipe, spreader plates, di erent options for seed rotors, low level visual and audible sensor, nger switch control for on/o on headland turns and, uniquely, an in-cab control box that can be altered from standard control to either GPS or Isobus enabling the operator to choose the type of control system best suited to the operation being performed. Rotor speed and fan speed can be adjusted via the control box.
The GPS receiver and Isobus connector are all included with the seeder giving a full multi choice control system to the operator which has proved to be a very popular system. FG
5.4m (18’) three-point linkage mounted topper with foldable wings for a compact 2.3m (7’6”) transport width
• The wings can flex from -15° to +25° while mowing, enabling the machine to adapt to ground contours for a precise and even cut
• Under-sole discs are fitted to prevent scalping
• ProCut swinging blades ensure precise and efficient cutting
• Galvanised finish
Updated mower improves e ciencies in cover crops
Purchasing
a Major Cyclone has boosted arable operations for one grower’s farm.
“By growing cover crops, we can recycle nutrients, increase soil organic matter and protect soils from erosion,” says Gordon Sullivan. “It all leads to the potential of improved pro tability.”
Gordon is the fourth generation farming outside Kinsale, Co Cork. Alongside his father John, he manages 145ha of mixed tillage crops – winter beans, winter wheat and spring barley in rotation, with brassica sowings as break crops. Without livestock, cover crops are crucial for maintaining soil health. “We don’t have stock on the farm and therefore no farmyard manure, so cover crops are our best solution,” explains Gordon. “Heavy rainfall is common here and without cover crops, we risk soil loss through run-o . We’ve seen that elds with cover crops show very little erosion, even in wetter areas.”
For years, John and Gordon used a ail mower to process cover crops. However, they found it to be slow at 1.2ha per hour, power-hungry and expensive to maintain. Plus, it didn’t mulch crop residues e ectively.
Recognising the importance of e cient cover crop management, they sought a new solution and invested in a Major Cyclone mower. They chose the 5.6m model with eight rotors and 32 knives, which folds neatly to a 2.02m transport width. “What attracted us was its e ciency,” Gordon explains. “It’s nearly twice the width of the ail mower, uses 25% less fuel and covers between 2.8–4ha per hour. It also has a lower capital outlay.”
The mulching performance exceeded expectations. “You don’t see swaths of residue left behind,” says Gordon. “The chopped cover crop disappears quickly into the soil.” Requiring only a 120hp tractor, the Cyclone is easier to run and reduces soil compaction thanks to its lightweight construction.
Its hot-dipped galvanised nish protects it from corrosion, especially important near the coastline.
“The Cyclone is fully mounted, so there are no wheelings and it’s simple to operate,” Gordon adds. “We can adjust the mulching level easily. Soil testing already shows the bene ts— higher organic matter and better yields. If we can also reduce fertiliser costs, that’s a double win,” concludes Gordon. For more information visit www.major-equipment.com FG
Exciting new standard for UK milling wheat
O ering one of the best combinations of yield, disease resistance and grain quality, new Group 1 KWS Vibe brings genuinely improved performance to a sector that has had few new additions in recent years and is the new ‘protein’ banker for the UK, believes KWS UK technical manager for conventional crops Olivia Bacon.
A new addition to the Recommended List 2025/26, high-quality Group 1 breadmaking wheat KWS Vibe o ers the opportunity to achieve excellent gross margins.
the UK, recorded its highest yield in the West at 100%, 99% in the North and 97% in the East, with an untreated yield 89% of control.
Yorkshire, 15th September for the West and Midlands, and 20th September for East Anglia, the Midlands and South. The latest safe sowing date is the end of January.”
Outstanding performance
Slotting in just behind KWS Zyatt for yield in the latest RL, KWS Vibe has the highest overall protein production potential on the list, she says.
“KWS Vibe is has the best combination of yield and protein of all Group 1 varieties, but with a much better plant package for growers than previous varieties.
potential on the list, she says. of yield and protein of all Group 1 of 13.2% sets it apart from
“Its yield of 98% of controls combined with a milling speci cation protein content of 13.2% sets it apart from its competitors, as does the most comprehensive agronomic package of all the key Group 1 players.
“KWS Vibe is unusual in that it achieved Group 1 performance at NL1 and NL2 in 2022 and 2023, as well as the Recommended List stage in 2024, three contrasting seasons.”
“Characterised by excellent grain quality, including an HFN of 283 and a speci c weight of 79.1kg/hl, it consistently delivered higher protein at 13.2% than the control in each of the three years, exhibiting good gluten quality, loaf volumes and overall baking performance.”
is important because 60% of milling wheats
“Across the rotation KWS Vibe delivers excellent performance, both as a rst wheat at 98% of control and as a second cereal at 97%, which is important because 60% of milling wheats are sown in the second cereal position.
Excellent baking quality
In baking tests at the Allied Technical Centre, the new variety outperformed KWS Zyatt in every situation, with a softer, whiter crumb, larger loaf volume, excellent loaf height, improved layering performance in pastries and a superior crumb in rolls, she adds.
“KWS Vibe will appeal to milling wheat growers who want a variety which combines high yield with high protein.
Data from the Agrii Milling Programme Trials 2024, one on heavy land in Essex, the other on light land in Cambridgeshire, highlighted the excellent performance of KWS Vibe across all situations, Olivia shares.
“In RL trials it achieved 98% of control across
“In the early and late sown slots, the variety achieved 98% and 99% of control respectively, 98% on both light and heavy soils.”
O ering a strong agronomic package, with no weaknesses, KWS Vibe provides signi cantly better disease ratings and untreated yield than comparators, she points out.
“In the early and late sown slots, 98% of control respectively, 98% on both O ering a strong agronomic and untreated yield than comparators, she points out.
“KWS Vibe has a 7 for eyespot and mildew, it scores 8 for yellow rust, which will really help Group 1 milling wheat growers, together with a 6 for brown rust, 6.6 for septoria and 6 for fusarium.
“Sti strawed and 87cm high without PGR, KWS Vibe 8 for resistance to lodging with or without PGR and is rated +1 days for ripening compared to control.
On the heavy land site using a nitrogen rate of 200kg N/ha KWS Vibe yielded10.53t/ha, with a speci c weight of 79.9kg/hl and 12.3% protein, compared to 9.98t/ha/78.5kg/hl/12.1% for Skyfall and 10.03t/ha/78.3kg/hl/11.9% for SY Cheer.
At a higher nitrogen rate of 300kgN/ha, the gures for KWS Vibe were 9.86t/ha/79.6kg/hl/13.1%, compared to 9.20t/ha/77.6kg/hl/12.9% for Skyfall and 9.85t/ha/78.0kg/hl/12.2% for SY Cheer.
On the light land, using 200kgN/ha, KWS Vibe recorded 8.91t/ha/75.2kg/hl/12.4%, compared to Skyfall’s 8.67t/ha/76.4kg/hl/12.1%, with SY Cheer delivering 9.38t/ha/76.3kg/hl/12.2%.
“Regional dates for sowing are from 1st September in Scotland and North Lincolnshire/
At 300kgN/ha, the gures for KWS Vibe were 9.56t/ha/75.8kg/hl/15.0%, compared to Skyfall’s 9.24t/ha/75.3kg/hl/13.4% and SY Cheer’s 9.75t/ ha/75.9kg/hl/13.5%.
In a KWS nitrogen response trial carried out by NIAB on a site at Sutton Scotney in Hampshire, not noted for producing high proteins, KWS Vibe consistently outperformed KWS Zyatt and KWS Extase at nitrogen rates of 200kg N/ha, 220kg N/ ha, 280kg N/ha and 320kg N/ha, recording 13.0% protein compared to Zyatt’s 12.2%
KWS Vibe’s slow development, its ability to tiller, and a score of 7 for eyespot resistance makes it an ideal variety to start drilling early, a key requirement for growers further north, she adds.
“In addition, it delivers some of the highest yields compared to current Group 1 wheats on the current RL in this region, giving growers access to premium market opportunities where available.
“In the AHDB East and West regions KWS Vibe is all about yield, market potential, disease resistance and eld performance, making it one of the most pro table wheats a farmer can grow.” FG
Olivia Bacon, KWS UK technical manager for conventional crops.
SU BARESI & SU KARLSSON Hybrid Rye
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HYBRID RYE
Popularity of mechanical hoeing
KRM is nding a growing market in the arable sector for hoeing cereal crops. One key bene t of hoeing is the ability to destroy ‘resistant’ weeds. This is especially true for those closely related to the crop which can be di cult to target with chemistry.
sown with a 6m drill.
The parallelogram-mounted hoeing unit is tted with laterally rigid tines to prevent the share from deviating, thus making the Kipline camera guidance system highly responsive, guaranteeing optimum precision.
Traditionally the hoe width must match that of the drill, but KRM has launched a new ‘Duo’ version of its high precision Klinea hoe which allows two drill bouts to be hoed in a single pass. The Duo is a single mounted hoe with two separate hoeing elements, for example in a 12m Duo there are 2 x 6m hoeing elements each with its own camera and guidance system, allowing a single 12m hoe to operate in a crop
The Kipline camera system along with the Weed Pilot in-cab display manages both cameras and both hoeing elements of the Duo, whilst providing the operator with a clear overview of machine’s performance. GPS controlled hydraulic lifting of each element is an increasingly popular option allowing the tines to automatically raise out of work at the headland and is especially useful in irregular shaped elds. FG
Conventional WOSR 2025
BRED IN BRITAIN FOR UK FARMERS
Highly recommended for all regions of the UK, this top-performing conventional variety boasts the highest yield. Featuring large pods and abundant seeds, it ranks as the No.1 choice. Developed in Britain specifically for British farmers, its superior yield, vigour, and establishment surpass even that of Campus.
Interest in mechanical weeding has grown significantly over recent years as growers seek to lower costs and increase yield. In addition mechanical weeding has no negative effects on the growing crop and provides additional agronomic benefits ommended for all regions of the UK, this top-performing conventional variety boasts the highest yield. Featuring large pods and abundant seeds, it ranks as the No.1 choice. Developed in Britain specifically for British farmers, its superior yield, vigour, and establishment surpass even that of Campus.
Conventional OSR variety outperforms for the second year running
Pi Pinnacle is the number one conventional for gross output and treated yields.
Neil Groom, general manager for breeder Grainseed, reports that the company’s conventional winter oilseed rape variety has produced the highest gross output across all AHDB regions and is recommended for the whole of the UK in 2025/2026.
“At harvest in 2024, many growers reported much lower incidence of adult cabbage stem ea beetles in the trailers and we have seen much lower levels of adult feeding damage at emergence allowing better establishment of the crop,” Neil explains. “This has given many growers higher con dence in growing the crop again and bene tting from higher break crop margins.
“The weather during 2024 was challenging for all and the lower sunlight hours reduced the yield of all crops. The yields of the Recommended List trials however, averaged 4.92t/ha, only slightly below the long-term average of 5.05t/ha.”
Pinnacle is not only the number one conventional variety, but it is bred in the UK by independent plant breeder, Mike Pickford. Mike says: “As the trials show, a top performing conventional variety can easily outperform some hybrid varieties. My breeding philosophy follows a ‘Component Analysis Technique’ to achieve a high harvest index by improving individual yield components, such as increasing seed size. Pinnacle has seed with a thousand grain weight between 6.5 to 7gms compared to Campus at 5 to 6gms. I also try to maintain clean green stems when ripening allowing more e cient photosynthesis during the ripening grain lling process.”
Becki Gibbs, seed manager for United Oilseeds adds: “There are a number of excellent varieties available this season which have been bred to overcome some of the challenges faced by OSR growers and Pinnacle is an excellent example of this, and it’s proving itself yet again.
“I strongly encourage growers to order their seed and support the ongoing success of this iconic crop.” FG
n New high quality breadmaking wheat
n Very high untreated yields thanks to all-round excellent disease resistance, including 6.6 for Septoria
n Short and stiff strawed
Neil Groom, Grainseed general manager.
Independent plant breeder, Mike Pickford.
Multi-use air seeder proves a wise purchase
Investment in a Multicast 400 has enabled a Shropshirebased contracting business to meet high demand.
Providing a wide range of application services including slug pelleting, Avadexing, and cover cropping, as well as general spraying, has proved a successful business formula for agronomist Andrew Wade.
Andrew, who launched OptiGro Limited in 2019, saw an opportunity to support the agronomic input advice he was already giving to farmers with his own application service and con rms it was one of the best business decisions he’s ever made.
Andrew says: “The OptiGro business model I operate today is closely based on my former company ‘i-Gro’ originally set up in 2016 in partnership with former colleague and agronomist, Luke Hardy. Starting out as an addon service for local farmers in Shropshire and Sta ordshire, the business rapidly developed into something much bigger and, by 2019, we had expanded our customer base into Derbyshire, Warwickshire, Cheshire and parts of Wales before Luke decided to leave the business to concentrate solely on agronomy.
“Due to the increased seasonal demand for our services, particularly within an already congested spring and autumn work window for both growers and contractors, we soon found that one self-propelled sprayer had become four sprayers, one quad bike had become three quad bikes and one Techneat 12m Multicast 400
had become two Multicast 400s to meet the signi cant increase in both autumn-timed Avadex application and cover cropping as a key move towards more sustainable farming practices.”
Reduced passes, lower fuel costs
Andrew continues: “Demand from farmers for multi-use air seeders such as the Multicast has always been a key part of our business, largely
because these applicators can perform many tasks to simultaneously reduce the number of passes and lower fuel costs. In the last two autumns many farmers in our trading area have experienced very wet weather making establishment of crops increasingly challenging. Drilling decisions are often made at the last minute, so with Avadex application requiring a 48-hour window post-drilling the subsequent investment in a second Multicast was really a no-brainer.
“Having purchased our rst Multicast 400 in 2020 and rear-mounted it onto a John Deere 5055 tractor we acquired a light, well-balanced and accurate applicator which has paid for itself many times over during the last ve years. However, in 2023, in view of the wetter autumns, we decided to mount our second 12m Multicast 400 on an even lighter L2-522 Kubota tractor, enabling the machine to perform in even heavier conditions without any rutting or damage to the soil surface.
“The set-up was very simple. We took a lightweight Multicast applicator weighing around 250kg and mounted it onto a tractor weighing around 2T. To enhance the tractor’s performance, we then ran it on very high-quality Michelin Xeobib 600 tyres designed to operate on much heavier tractors at lower pressures. The result was an incredibly light and versatile system which can applicate small seeds, cover crops or Avadex in even the most extreme soil conditions.
“Working at optimum speeds of 10–12kph we can readily achieve up to 60ha of Avadex application or cover cropping per day, even when factoring in additional time spent travelling from farm to farm. For greater accuracy we combine the Multicast’s own rate controller with the Trimble GPS unit on each tractor to ensure the application rate, forward speed and accuracy of placement are as precise as possible for customers.
“To keep down-time to an absolute minimum we tend to service and repair the applicators at our Shifnal HQ, with Techneat’s excellent aftersales support team supplying replacement parts within 24 hours. However, given the volume of work that we do with the Multicasts, we now stock key replacement parts such as the hydraulic fan and twin spreader plates on site, even though a breakdown of any kind is rare with this type of machine,” concludes Andrew. FG
•
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Make the most of better weather
As growers across the UK will remember vividly, the last two seasons have made life di cult for anybody managing arable crops. Will this year be di erent?
In 2023, although early spring temperatures were slightly above normal, the weather was unsettled with 155% of average rainfall during March. 2024 saw a very wet spring, with growing conditions further a ected by a very cold spell in April.
The forecast for this spring tells a di erent story. Dry, ne weather began in March and continued into April, giving growers the chance to get back on the land and perhaps make up for the lost opportunities of the last two years.
The perfect timing
Stephen Williams, UK head of sales for Omya, says this is the perfect time to focus on soil health to maximise crop productivity during May and June.
“From late spring into summer, crops need high quantities of nutrients, which they get partly from the soil and partly from applied fertilisers.
One of the biggest in uencers of nutrient availability is soil pH, which is also a good indicator of overall soil health. If the pH is too low, then nutrients become less available to the crop and microbial activity in the soil is less e cient. Farmers can make a big di erence to crop performance by making sure pH is within the optimal range.”
Optimal pH varies by crop, but for most crops 6.5 is considered ideal. Of the cereal crops, barley is the most pH sensitive, and other crops such as oilseed rape and sugar beet do better at a slightly higher pH.
to focus on soil health
E ective lime option
Many growers manage pH by applying agricultural lime every few years, but as Mr Williams points out, this delivers slow results which won’t necessarily help this year’s crops.
“Agricultural lime by its very nature is coarse and takes several months to break down in the soil. We recommend using granulated lime as an alternative. Granules such as Omya Calciprill are made of micronised calcium carbonate. When they come into contact with soil moisture, they dissolve into tiny particles which disperse quickly through the soil pro le and rooting zone. The high surface area of these particles reacts with the excess hydrogen ions in the soil, neutralising acidity within a few weeks.”
A byproduct of treating acid soil with calcium carbonate is the release of calcium ions, which have a dual e ect – they improve soil structure, and they provide essential calcium nutrition to the growing crop.
Mr Williams continues: “Calcium ions help with the occulation of clay particles and organic matter, leading to better soil structure. That in turn improves the circulation of air and water, as well as enabling better rooting and better nutrient scavenging. The other big bene t of course is calcium nutrition. Every crop requires a continual supply of calcium throughout the growing season as calcium is a key component of cell walls and membranes, as well as being involved in signalling within the plant. Omya Calciprill delivers calcium in a readily available form for take up by the plant.”
Soil testing
Mr Williams recommends soil testing to ascertain pH levels, and then regular applications of Omya Calciprill to maintain optimal pH. For growers wishing to correct acidity this spring, granulated calcium carbonate is ideal since it can be applied using standard farm equipment and spread up to 36m uniformly.
Mr Williams concludes: “This spring o ers growers a perfect opportunity to focus on soil health and maximise nutrient use e ciency by correcting acid soils, improving soil structure, and allowing crops to perform at their best.”
Omya Calciprill is available in 600kg bags throughout the UK. FG
Stephen Williams, UK head of sales for Omya.
ED&F Man Agronomy
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Stimulate both soil and cropperformance
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Protect soil organicmatter and maximise its potential
A range of products to suit requirements available in IBC’s from 1T to bulk deliveries
Meeting the SOIL REGEN challenge head-on
“Farmers have always farmed the way the government wants them for farm,” comments Ed Hammond who farms 800ha near Southwell, growing cereals, potatoes, sugar beet and maize for AD on a mix of soils including Trent gravel, salt clay, sand loam and sandy silt loam.
“The consequence is that the drive has been for more intensive, higher yielding systems which have damaged soils. The focus now needs to be much more about improving soils which are a nite resource. We need to achieve the same return from lower levels of chemical inputs and regenerate soil.”
As a result, since 2017 Ed has been working on evolving his system with the goal of achieving the same margin from growing less.
His system is now based on min till for all crops except potatoes, although a small amount of land is also ploughed for maize as it is a lazy rooter and needs looser soil. He shares a 5m cross slot drill with a near neighbour to ensure e ective crop establishment. Extensive use is made of cover crops.
Soil biology
Ed is also playing close attention to soil biology. “We need to rebuild the soil biota and carbon as these are fundamental to soil health. Soil is much more than just a growing medium. It can contribute signi cantly to the crop. If we have healthier soil we can increase e ciency of nitrogen use and reduce usage of arti cial fertilisers.”
Since 2020 Ed has been using a range of liquid carbon nutrition products based on sustainable molasses and plant-based nutrients are an e ective tool for e ective soil regeneration. The ED&F Man Agronomy range contains four liquid carbon products formulated for speci c situations and requirements, allowing a tailored programme to be developed to optimise crop establishment. All products are high in carbon and sugars from sustainable sources complemented with a range of other ingredients.
“Sustainable cane molasses is a natural source of both carbon and energy,” explains Alistair Hugill from ED&F Man Agronomy. “The high carbohydrate content stimulates microbial populations in the organic layer and drives microbial activity through to the topsoil, stimulating greater nutrient uptake
even down to the sub-soil layer.
“In a planned approach to improving soil health and crop sustainability, the starting point is to boost soil microbial activity. Soil microbes capture nutrients for the plant so the more e ective the microbial populations, the better the nutrient supply to the plant.”
Increasing nutrient supply
All plants provide carbohydrates to the soil in the form of root exudates, e ectively a sugar solution for the microbes. The carbohydrates feed the microbes and increase the rate at which mineral nutrients in the soil are dissolved, increasing their availability to the plant.
“Plants produce carbohydrates via photosynthesis and any surplus is used for root exudates. When performing well a plant will provide 40% of assimilates from photosynthesis into the soil via root exudates, containing carbon and sugars. If we feed the plant with a source of sugar and carbon, it can meet its demand for carbohydrates for growth more e ciently and allowing the production of root exudates to increase, in turn increasing nutrient supply
One Nottinghamshire farmer is determined to challenge farming practices before he is forced to change with the focus on improving soils.
wetting agent and reduce scorch, while the amino acids are rapidly utilised by the plant. Since using the supplement, we have been able to reduce nitrogen use.
“On spring barley we have cut back from 120kg/ha to 80kg/ha with no change in yields. Usage of potatoes has been reduced from 270kg/ha to 180kg/ha.
“The improved soil structure has helped crops deal with drought, generally being able to withstand dry conditions for longer. We have also seen an increase in the number of possible drilling days which is a real plus as we are sharing the drill and having to get a bigger overall hectarage into the ground.
“The drill uses pressure to get into the ground and our drill operator has commented that less pressure is needed as the soils work easier, increasing the speed of operations, increasing the number of drilling days and reducing establishment costs.
“We are taking a holistic approach to soils combining minimal disturbance, cover crops and liquid carbon supplements and it is having a big impact. If we can build soil organic matter and
to the plant.”
liquid, so the liquid carbon is simply added to the mix, whether applied as a soil or foliar feed.
“We have found it helps to work as a
promote more e cient nutrient uptake by plants we can improve soil health for more sustainable production,” Ed suggests. FG
FULLY LOADED
Key factors a ecting OSR performance
Many considerations will influence the OSR crop performance this year and decisions made on varieties to drill next season. Breeder NPZ UK explains more.
Growing oilseed rape may have lost favour over recent years following the loss of seed treatments previously used to keep the cabbage stem ea beetle at bay. However, advancements in genetics are a key part of ensuring the viability and pro tability of this important break crop for years to come.
Plant health
This comes from the robust disease resistance led by RlmS and Rlm7 resistance now combined in leading varieties along with TuYV resistance.
This is added to the high level of autumn and spring vigour associated with hybrid varieties that have taken an increasing share of the UK oilseed rape area in recent years.
An example of how these factors come together is Maverick, whose leading position on the Recommended List comes from its very strong hybrid vigour combined with resilient plant health coming from its RlmS and Rlm7 phoma resistance gene combination and TuYV resistance.
Pod shatter resistance
This is a speci c attribute that is now agged in the Recommended List – but it is important to remember that AHDB notes the characteristic is presented as a ‘breeder’s claim’, which is not veri ed in RL trials – the trait isn’t black and white, with a range of resistances observed across varieties in trials.
Because of this, pod shatter resistance is shown in the Recommended List as an ‘R’ as it is not currently possible to generate the standard 1–9 rating.
On a practical level for growers, hybrid varieties are more likely to exhibit resistance and the case for considering a resistant variety is heightened if the site chosen for the oilseed rape crop is an exposed one.
Clubroot resistance
Clubroot resistant oilseed rape varieties are a valuable tool for keeping the crop in the rotation, but should only be used in line with AHDB clubroot management guidelines. An over-reliance on varieties can eventually lead to
resistance breaking down, leaving farmers with areas where they can no longer grow the crop.
Breeding for clubroot resistance has made great progress with the yield gap with standard varieties narrowing and there is now a step change in varietal control with the arrival of Crusoe on the Recommended List. It has a high gross output, high resistance to stem canker, good resistance to light leaf spot, good stem sti ness, resistance to lodging and is TuYV resistant.
Drilling window
The drilling window for oilseed rape is far wider than often thought. While most crops are traditionally drilled in the rst two weeks of August, there has been a trend to early drilling in late July and, at the other end of the scale, up to mid-September.
Early drilling has been driven by the view that getting crops in then is a way to avoid the worst of ea
beetle damage. However, targeting the really early window in late July means stem elongation is taking place in November/December rather than around March.
Buds are therefore being formed in poorer winter conditions instead of spring. This is likely to be a major contributing factor in often-seen underperforming yields for early drilled oilseed rape.
There is an equally strong case to consider late sowing as evidenced by long-term trials in the Cambridge area showing the ideal drilling date can be a later one of around midSeptember – a date used by many breeders for their trials.
In summary, this work shows that this date ensures plants are at optimum growth stage by the end of the year. FG
Lincolnshire
Michael Shuldham, of breeder NPZ UK.
Varietal resistance: New tool in CSFB battle
The launch of a new hybrid oilseed rape variety with resilience to CSFB promises a big step forward in helping OSR growers.
LG Avenger is the culmination of almost a decade of work by breeder Limagrain Field Seeds, and is the rst to be commercially available in the UK with the LG CSFB Resilience characteristic.
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Nutrition
• Optimise for yield and performance
“LG Avenger is the result of our new methods of breeding oilseed rape varieties, which consider all limiting factors for crop development, including the threat from CSFB,” says Florentina Petrescu, Limagrain UK OSR product manager.
“It is the only variety with LG CSFB Resilience on the 2025/26 AHDB Recommended List, alongside many other valuable characteristics, including high yield, pod shatter resistance, high oil content and a very good disease package, including a light leaf spot rating of 7 and sclerotinia tolerance.”
Arable technical manager, Ron Granger adds: “Limagrain has been at the forefront of OSR breeding for the past decade, and we remain fully committed to the crop, despite the reduction in the UK area witnessed over that time.”
CSFB has been a big factor in the declining area, which has fallen by around 500,000ha from its peak in 2011/12, to approximately 235,000ha this season, he notes.
What is CSFB Resilience?
Mrs Petrescu describes LG CSFB Resilience as “a novel genetic approach
that tackles CSFB at key crop stages, as part of an e ective integrated pest management strategy on farm”. Resilient varieties feature a series of characteristics that make them better adapted to escaping damage during two crucial periods in the autumn and spring, so it is not just about a single genetic trait, she says. These characteristics include:
1. Strong autumn dynamic growth to help developing crops escape the early ‘shot holing’ damage caused by adult ea beetles feeding on cotyledons and rst leaves, which can result in signi cant leaf loss and complete crop failure in extreme cases.
2. Rapid stem elongation in the spring to improve the plant’s resilience to damage caused by larvae mining into petioles and stems.
3. A capacity in some varieties (e.g. LG Avenger) to limit the number of larvae that develop within the stems – the exact reasons for this are still being identi ed.
4. Reduced CSFB larvae damage severity – e.g. stunted, bushy plants. Reducing the severity of CSFB damage has a direct bene t on nal yield, Mrs Petrescu adds. Indeed, AHDB research suggests one additional larvae per plant can cost 50–70kg/ha in lost yield.
Feeding damage by adults and larvae has other implications too, such as increasing the entry points
for disease, uneven owering and variable pod maturity. Varieties with LG CSFB Resilience, such as LG Avenger, therefore also include characteristics like pod shatter resistance, and a strong disease pro le to help mitigate these risks, she says.
Independent backing
CSFB is a major issue in many other European countries, including France, where CSFB resilience has been a characteristic on the French Recommended List for the past six years. Independent data from the French equivalent of AHDB (Terres Inovia) puts LG Avenger as one of the highest rated varieties for resilience on this list.
This backs up three years’ worth of Limagrain Europe assessments in 20222024, where LG Avenger signi cantly outperformed the sensitive control
variety and came close to the most resilient control, LG Aviron.
“Interestingly, the sensitive control did show good spring stem elongation, but the severity of CSFB symptoms ended up being quite high, illustrating that one characteristic is not enough on its own; you need everything to come together,” comments Mrs Petrescu.
“If you’re buying hybrid seed, then it makes sense to take advantage of the e orts that breeders have put into developing more resilient varieties,” adds NIAB break crop specialist, Colin Peters.
No silver bullet
While varietal resilience is a welcome addition to the toolbox needed to tackle CSFB, Mr Peters and Mrs Petrescu recognise it is no ‘silver bullet’ and must be used as part of an integrated pest management strategy, built around 10 key areas:
1. Rotation/proximity to the previous year’s OSR crop – Adults emerge from OSR stubbles for up to six months after harvest, peaking in mid-September. Risk is often higher in crops grown close to a previous OSR crop, although work is ongoing to identify how far adult CSFB can y. Cultivation of the previous oilseed rape stubble straight after harvest has been shown to signi cantly reduce the number of adults emerging from the soil through the autumn.
2. Variety choice – Grow hybrids with CSFB Resilience and consider regional performance.
3. Companion/trap crops – Growing a companion crop (e.g. buckwheat, berseem clover) can help to disguise emerging OSR from CSFB.
4. Seedbed preparation – Good seed-to-soil contact and soil moisture retention are key to rapid establishment, so drill by conditions, not date.
5. Crop establishment – Consider all ways to boost establishment, such as placing nutrition close to seed.
6. Weather forecasting – Key to determining drilling conditions.
7. CSFB monitoring to assess risk –Stem larval sampling is simple and cheap to do on farm.
8. Record keeping – Drilling dates, conditions, pest numbers, yields, etc.
9. Evaluate the e ectiveness of management practices.
10. Insecticide application – Use only where necessary once thresholds are met, but recognise that widespread resistance means pyrethroids may have little impact on CSFB, and may damage bene cial populations. FG
Florentina Petrescu, Limagrain UK OSR product manager.
• Increased availability in sulphur form with reduced volatilisation creates a more efficient nitrogen uptake spreadable over 36m.
•Balanced nitrogen release, with 5% ammoniacal nitrogen for immediate plant uptake and 35% urea nitrogen for a longer-lasting nutrient supply.
• YaraVera AMIPRO is YaraVera AMIDAS + Inhibitor*
*
Boost OSR yield and fight CSFB naturally
The right nutrition can make all the di erence in OSR this spring.
Sea2Soil provides a great source of natural, organic nitrogen, and uses a very high-quality organic source derived from sh hydrolysate (alongside all the other bene cial nutrients and amino acids in the product) is a great starting point for many crops this spring.
While less industry-wide research has been carried out in relation to the e cacy of organic nitrogen, key ndings from recent studies Sea2Soil has commissioned with NIAB and The University of Nottingham – combining both farm-set trials and a nonreplicated conventional study – have produced incredible results. Testing Sea2Soils’ e cacy against cabbage stem ea beetle (CSFB) damage as well as its impact on worm count, pH, carbon retention, moisture, porosity, and organic matter, these studies have proven that Sea2Soil can:
• Reduce CSFB damage to cotyledons by 32%
• Reduce CSFB damage to leaves by 90%
• Reduce CSFB damage to stems by 59%
• Increase earthworm numbers by 1.85M worms/ha – ve times the control
• Increase soil organic matter content to 9.1% versus 6.7% (control soils)
• 1.2% increase in soil carbon content.
“These results indicate substantial impacts for Sea2Soil on soil physical, chemical and biological properties, likely to bene t crop production,” commented Dr Nick Girkin from the University of Nottingham.
“Sea2Soil showed a signi cant reduction in the feeding of cabbage stem ea beetles on cotyledons within two days of application – several di erent rates showed a reduction in feeding damage up to seven days after application and may convey cover until they senesce,” added Adrian Harris BS, MSc from NIAB.
Sea2Soil has also announced the launch of ‘The Great Groundswell Giveaway’, o ering one lucky winner the chance to attend Groundswell 2025 – the UK’s premier regenerative agriculture event – for free!
One lucky winner will receive two tickets to Groundswell 2025 and overnight accommodation at the Letchworth Hall Hotel on 2nd July, just minutes from the event venue, including breakfast.
All current and new customers who have made or make a purchase from Sea2Soil between 1st January 2024, and 1st June 2025, will automatically be entered into the prize draw. Customers can also boost their chances of winning in the coming weeks by referring a friend. For more information visit www.sea2soil.com or contact Sea2Soil directly. FG
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Get beet o to a strong start
Hutchinsons root crop technical manager, Darryl Shailes answers some common questions when it comes to rapid sugar beet establishment.
Rapid establishment of sugar beet drives yield and gets crops past the most vulnerable stages for virus infection quicker, but how do we achieve that and what are the pitfalls to avoid?
How should I minimise weed competition?
Aim to hit weeds when small (cotyledon stage), before they compete with the crop and slow its establishment. Any weed can be problematic, but the most damaging tend to be taller species that grow above the crop, such as fat hen, redshank, and volunteer potatoes.
Targeting weeds at the cotyledon stage also avoids the need for products or mixes that may be “hotter” on the crop. There is a good range of contact and residual chemistry available, so discuss the best options with your agronomist.
sure weeds are actively growing to take up the chemistry – this may not be the case if weeds have been knocked back by an earlier herbicide application.
What if I’m growing Conviso beet?
Remember, only one application of foramsulfuron + thiencarbazonemethyl is allowed, which should be applied at the correct timing (2–4 true leaves of fat hen). Ensure you follow stewardship guidelines on the product label.
Conviso and non-Conviso elds must also be clearly marked, and sprayer operators made fully aware of where they are to avoid any costly mistakes.
There may be ALS-resistant weeds in some elds, so use a conventional treatment early where this is a problem, otherwise once you realise weeds such as poppy and chickweed are not dying, they may be too big to control.
Email: info@techneat.co.uk
Tel: 01353 862 044
www.techneat.co.uk
Good spray coverage is essential for optimum herbicide e cacy, and recent research shows at fan nozzles remain the most e ective for hitting small weeds in sugar beet, not bubble jet nozzles.
When targeting grassweeds with contact herbicides, make
What about early nutrition?
Crops need balanced nutrition to establish quickly and build healthy canopies, with early nitrogen being
particularly important. Su cient nitrogen must be available as beet starts growing rapidly from the 4–6 leaf stage.
Assuming around half of total nitrogen has been applied to the seedbed, the remainder should go on by the two-leaf stage, so do not leave it too late.
Urea-based products take longer to become available to crops than ammonium nitrate based fertiliser, so consider this when timing applications. It is especially true for urea products that include an inhibitor; something that is mandatory for all urea applied after 31st May.
Don’t forget micronutrients too. These can sometimes be applied with post-em herbicides, but only if products are fully compatible, so check labels carefully.
What should I do about aphids?
Getting crops established and past the 12-leaf stage as quickly as possible is key to mitigating risks from aphids and associated
virus. Beyond 12 leaves, sugar beet becomes more resistant to virus transmission.
Fortunately, Rothamsted Research’s aphid forecast, published in early March, suggests that after January’s cold spell, most aphids will not arrive in crops until May this year. That is comparatively later than normal – in bad virus years, such as 2020, aphids arrived in March just as crops were emerging.
Settled weather this March has allowed many crops to be sown in good time into decent conditions, so hopefully these will be well advanced once aphids appear.
Avoid anything that restricts development though, be that sub-optimal nutrition, or weed competition, and monitor crops closely for aphid activity.
If/when treatment is required, there are now three options available for this season. There are di erences between products, especially in their e ects on other pests and mode of activity, so again, speak to your agronomist about the most appropriate option. FG
High Gross Output
High Oil Content Built-in Traits
Hinsta is a high-yielding variety with excellent oil content. It has a medium maturity, fowers later in the season, and carries the pod shatter resistance gene. With strong resistance to lodging and above-average early vigour, it establishes well in the feld.
Hinsta also boasts a robust disease resistance package, including protection against TuYV. Trials have demonstrated its exceptional tolerance to Verticillium Stem Stripe.
Sugar beet campaign concludes in special centenary year for British Sugar
The UK’s homegrown sugar beet industry has concluded the 2024/25 campaign, with the Newark factory being the last site to close its gates.
A total of 7.7 million tonnes of locally grown sugar beet has been processed by British Sugar’s four factories, producing approximately 1.1 million tonnes of sugar. This campaign also marks a special occasion for two of British Sugar’s largest factories, with both its Bury St Edmunds and Wissington sites celebrating 100 years of beet processing in 2025.
Both sites will celebrate their centenaries throughout the year, with activities and events planned to mark the occasion with local communities and growers, as well as current and former employees.
A strong campaign
Dan Green, agriculture director at British Sugar, said: “I am pleased to say that the 2024/25 campaign has been a strong one for the UK sugar beet industry. The weather has been – for the most part – kind and, thankfully, the growing area has received nothing like the amount of rain or frost which we experienced in the last two campaigns.
“Growers have delivered average, or better than usual, yields and this has been complemented by solid factory performances across the board, with a particular callout to Bury and Cantley, both of which had a stellar campaign.
“We’re delighted with the combined e orts of our growers, hauliers, harvesting contractors, factory teams and everyone involved in the campaign for getting us to this stage safely and in good order.”
New app success
This campaign also saw the launch of two new apps within the agricultural supply chain called Lifted and Delivered – these are designed to give greater visibility of which crops have been
harvested and awaiting collection, as well as logging when it has been delivered to one of the factories.
Dan continues: “We’d just like to say a huge thank you to hauliers and harvesters for their positive engagement since launching both apps at the start of the campaign and for their ongoing feedback. The impact of both Lifted and Delivered has been extremely positive, with over four million tonnes of beet recorded in the Lifted app. This knowledge has a orded our hauliers and ourselves, better planning capabilities and given us one of the best Christmas periods we’ve had for years, with all four factories remaining full and running smoothly.
“We plan to spend the next few months continuing to work with our industry partners, to see where we can make improvements to both apps ahead of the next campaign.”
Aside from this, there were signi cant investments at all British Sugar’s factories, with the construction continuing of the new £19.5M evaporators at Bury St Edmunds, which will be commissioned for the start of the 2025/26 campaign, reducing scope 1 CO2e emissions by 20,000 tonnes per year. Bury has also bene tted from a new, state of the art front of house building, due to open this week. At its Cantley site, a new gas turbine has been installed for the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant, enabling the site to reduce carbon emissions by around 16,000 tonnes of CO2e annually.
Dan continues: “In a di cult commercial environment, we are maintaining our signi cant programme of ongoing investments into operational maintenance and improvements. These improvements help us to maintain productivity and pro tability when set against a
di cult commercial outlook, as well as delivering against our decarbonisation and sustainability targets.
“The major investments into energy reduction and decarbonisation ensure that we’re setting ourselves up for the future, placing ourselves in the realms of one of the most e cient processors of beet in Europe. With our centenary year at both Bury St Edmunds and Wissington, we’re extremely proud of our history but also are now looking to the future to maintain the homegrown sugar industry for many years and decades to come.”
Looking ahead
With centenary celebrations due to take place throughout the year, Dan’s sights are set on the next crop to go into the ground.
strong yields, and good
He continues: “Drilling is now well underway and providing some favourable weather and I am optimistic about the coming season. The colder winter and frost patches seen across our growing areas throughout January and February are expected to keep levels of aphids carrying virus yellows disease to a minimum but as always this is closely monitored across the industry. In addition, on-farm hygiene will be crucial to further minimise risk posed by aphids. Providing aphid populations stay low, and the summer weather is on our side, we expect to see healthy crops, strong yields, and good margins for our growers.
Ensuring the viability of our homegrown sugar industry for the future.”
Ensuring the viability of FG
Dan Green, agriculture director at British Sugar.
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Contact your local dealer for more details www.maschiogaspardo.com
Supporting
the potential of your beet crop
sub-optimal conditions should bene t plant populations and yield potential.
“It has been encouraging to see fodder beet drilling taking place earlier this year as sugar beet yield potential is a ected by later drilling dates and the race for canopy development to intercept solar radiation in May and June! Our proven Clemens, Degas and Gahan varieties will provide that vigour in the fodder-energy beet sector.
“All of that said, most would agree that a good steady rain would bene t all crops!
“Strube’s seed quality focus in either ‘Enrich’ or ‘3D-Plus’ formats will support rapid crop development and o er growers choice. Our most popular sugar beet varieties in 2025, Morgan, Button (BCN) and ST Tweed (VY tolerant) will be our varieties of choice for 2026, o ering growers consistently reliable performance and value.
“The prolonged dry and settled conditions that prevailed from early March into April have enabled growers to optimise the timing of seedbed cultivations and sugar beet drilling along with the other arable tasks that coincide in
the spring,” Richard explains.
Richard Cogman, managing director of specialist beet breeder Strube, shares his advice on how to give your sugar or fodder/energy crop the best start.
“There is much truth in the old saying: ‘Well sown, half grown’. Not having to force seedbeds and ‘push on’ with drilling in
through the later spring period, we
“To support your crop’s potential through the later spring period, we would encourage growers to take BBRO advice for aphid monitoring until the 10–12 true leaf stage and ‘mature plant resistance’; and to manage weed control to reduce competition. Any remaining nitrogen applications need to be applied by the 2–4 true leaf stage for early uptake to support leaf area expansion. FG
advice for aphid monitoring until the
remaining nitrogen applications
uptake to support leaf
Strube ofers three established sugar beet varieties to UK growers for 2026; including BCN and Virus Yellows tolerance.
Talk to us today about varieties you can depend on for reliable performance, consistent yield and exceptional value for seasons to come.
Contact: Richard Cogman on 07983 314424 or email: r.cogman@strube.net
Richard Cogman, MD of specialist breeder Strube.
Farmer Tim Burt is planting for the future through the Woodland Trust’s MOREwoods scheme, leaving a legacy rooted in care, community, and conservation.
Nestled in the rolling chalk hills of Dorset, Hartcli Farm has been in the Burt family for more than 50 years. Today, it’s managed by Tim Burt, whose approach to farming is rooted as much in longterm stewardship as it is in productivity. “It’s where I’ve always lived,” he says. “I’ve travelled all over the world for work, but this valley – this patch of land – is home.”
The 32ha farm is predominantly laid to grass, producing hay, haylage and silage for sale. It’s a classic example of low-impact, pasture-based agriculture: no pesticides, no arti cial fertilisers, just permanent pasture rich in native grasses, clover, and wild owers. “I can’t call it organic,” Tim jokes, “but it’s all natural. And that’s important to us.”
In March 2023, Tim and a group of friends and family came together to plant 600 trees across a half-hectare corner of one of his elds, part of a new woodland created through the Woodland Trust’s MOREwoods scheme. The motivation wasn’t nancial: “We just love trees,” Tim explains. “We already had some older woodland on the farm, and we’ve always valued it – not just for the fuel it gives us, but for the wildlife it supports and for the overall feel of the place.”
The decision to plant more trees came after a series of storms over recent years damaged existing woodland, leaving gaps that would take
time to recover. “We’ve seen some of the older trees come down, especially oak and ash, and you start to think about what’s coming next. We wanted to put something in the ground that will still be here in 200 years.”
Choosing to plant
The land Tim chose – a gently sloping corner plot bounded by existing hedgerows – wasn’t especially productive for haymaking. “It was the most obvious place to go for. It wasn’t really used for anything else, and was already a bit enclosed. Plus, it’s got varied soil, so it’s good for a mix of species,” Tim shares.
“FARMING IS AS MUCH ABOUT STEWARDSHIP AS IT IS PRODUCTIVITY”
The decision to go with the Woodland Trust’s MOREwoods scheme came after a bit of online searching. “I can’t even remember exactly where I rst saw it – it might have been a government site or on social media. But once I looked into it, it just seemed like the most straightforward, well thought-out scheme. Everything was clear: what was covered, what kind of support was o ered. Some of the other schemes we looked at were a bit vague or more expensive. We also knew we could trust the Woodland Trust. MOREwoods just made sense.”
Through the scheme, landowners planting at least 0.5ha in total of native woodland can receive expert guidance, subsidised trees and planting
materials, and follow-up support. For Tim, that made all the di erence.
“We had one of the Trust’s outreach advisors come out to visit, and he clearly knew his stu . He looked at the site, the soil, the surrounding trees and hedgerows, and gave us suggestions on what species would work best. It felt very collaborative – he wasn’t just there to tick boxes.”
The nal species mix that Tim settled on was tailored for longevity and resilience; long-lived native trees suited to the hillside and the prevailing winds, species that would stand the test of time and support local biodiversity. “The shortest-lived species in there will last 200 years,” Tim says. “That’s the kind of scale we’re thinking on.”
Planting day
Once the plan was in place and the trees and materials were delivered, Tim organised a weekend of planting with a group of around 10 friends and family. “We made a bit of a weekend of it. We had a barbeque in the eld, gave everyone their batch of trees, and o they went. There was a lovely sense of community”
The actual planting, while physically demanding, went smoothly – thanks in part to Tim’s preparation. “I’d already dug the holes and done some soil conditioning, which made things easier. The ground is a bit mixed up there, so we
wanted to give the trees the best possible start.”
The trees, guards, and stakes arrived in good time and condition, and Tim estimates that even with the odd snapped stake or failed sapling, the majority have taken well. “We’ve had maybe a 10% failure rate, which isn’t bad. We’ve been replacing the gaps with saplings we’ve grown ourselves – sycamore, ash, whatever native species we’ve got.”
From planting to aftercare
Like any young woodland, the trees at Hartcli Farm have faced challenges. The biggest, according to Tim, are wind and deer. “We’ve got about 80 sika deer living in the neighbouring elds, and they’re mad. They will strip a tree overnight. We’ve also had storms snap a few stakes, so there’s been a bit of ongoing maintenance.”
That said, the aftercare hasn’t been overwhelming. “You’re not out there every day. But it does give you a reason to keep going back, checking in, feeling connected to what you planted. I think that’s part of the joy of it.”
There have been unexpected bene ts too. “We’ve got an old woodland that provides all the heat and hot water for the farmhouse, just from storm-damaged wood and pruning. We don’t cut down trees – but we manage what’s there. Having more woodland just adds to that cycle. In the very long-term this new woodland may eventually support that too.”
The ecological impact
For Tim, the primary motivation was always ecological. “It wasn’t a business decision. But any farmer would be foolish to think these things don’t have an impact on the business. More wildlife, more diversity – that’s good for everything.”
Hartcli Farm is already a haven for birds: swifts and swallows over the hay elds in summer, ground-nesting birds, woodpeckers, buzzards, kites, and a resident family of tawny owls. “The bird life here is incredible,” Tim says. “That tells you that the insect life is thriving too. You don’t always see the pollinators, but the birds are the proof.”
Adding new woodland, in his view, only strengthens that web. “Trees bring shelter, they improve soil, they help with water management. They seed themselves, and that feeds back into the existing hedgerows and woods. It’s all connected.”
Reflections and future plans
Looking back, Tim is overwhelmingly positive about the experience – though he’s candid about a bump in the road he encountered. “There was
Join the Woodland Trust and Soil Association at the Agroforestry Show on 10–11th September, supported by Sainsbury’s and Lloyds Banking Group. Learn, connect and be inspired by hands-on workshops, farm walks, live demonstrations and live talks: www.agroforestryshow.com
a frustrating delay in the middle, where the application seemed to get stuck between the Woodland Trust and the Forestry Commission. However, once someone at the Trust picked it up and took ownership of the process, it moved fast.”
Despite that, he’d recommend the scheme without hesitation – and is already planning to apply again. “We’re looking at two or three other areas around the farm where we could plant. It doesn’t have to be one big block, which is helpful. Something that’s going to help is the ability to combine smaller patches of land to meet the size requirement. That really opens up a lot more options.”
The main constraint is land availability – but Tim is committed to doing more where possible. The MOREhedges scheme doesn’t quite t the farm, as nearly every eld is already hedged, but the appetite for woodland is clearly there.
When asked what he hopes to see in ve or 10 years, his answer is simple: “I want the trees to be growing. I want them not to be eaten by deer. That’s it, really. Just to go out there and see that something we planted is thriving –that’s a good feeling.”
Looking forward
In an agricultural sector facing enormous uncertainty, Tim sees schemes like MOREwoods becoming increasingly important – if not necessarily for income, then for resilience, biodiversity, and legacy. “It’s not a nancial exercise. It’s about long-term thinking. This is the rst additive step we’ve taken for ecology on the farm – and it de nitely won’t be the last.”
At a time when conversations around the future of farming often focus on volatility and policy shifts, Tim’s approach is grounded and hopeful. “Farming isn’t just about pro t margins,” he says. “It’s about landscape, stewardship, continuity. And sometimes, it’s about planting something you’ll never see fully grown –because you know someone else will.” FG
Applications now open for the 2025/26 planting season: www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/morewoods
The Woodland Trust is a registered charity (numbers 294344 and SC038885). The Woodland Trust logo is a registered trademark.
MOREwoods is funded by Lloyds Bank to support sustainable farming.
A wide variety of competition categories are open for the Royal Bath & West Show, including sheep shearing, eggs, bees and honey, equine, and British cider championships.
Entry closure dates (subject to change) are:
• Shoeing – 1st May
• Eggs – 12th May
• Bees & honey – 1st May
• Floral art – 1st May
• Equine (light horse, heavy horse, scurry) – 28th April
• British Cider Championships –8th May
• Show jumping – 16th May
• Sheep shearing – 16th May. For tech savvy visitors, there’s a new way to plan your visit; The Royal Bath & West app. Released in April, the app will allow visitors to access timetables, create a personalised itinerary, and pin the things they’re most interested in seeing. “We’re
excited to introduce the new app. In today’s fast-paced world, where information is just a tap away, we know how important it is to have access to key information, and the app will deliver that,” says head of shows, Jess Chiplen.
The app will also include fun and interactive features like the Family Trail for families to enjoy. With everything you need at the touch of a button, the app is a must-have for showgoers.
Competition entries can be made by visiting www.bathandwest. com/royal-bath-and-west-show/ competitions
Tickets can be booked at www.bathandwest.com/royal-bathand-west-show/visitors/tickets
The Royal Bath & West Show will take place at The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6QN, from 29th–31st May. More details are available online. FG
How does refinance work?
Asset nance is, for many, a form of funding they have used for many years. Yet still, for others, it’s not something they know much about. There are various products that come under the broad umbrella of asset nance, with one of the key ones being re nancing, which is a proven way to make your assets work for you and release cash back into the business, says Close Brothers Asset Finance.
Re nancing uses the value of assets you already own to help your business. With sale and HP back – a type of re nancing –you sell your equipment to the company, and it lends you the money you need to invest in your business, Close Brothers explains.
“You pay us back in line with what the equipment earns for you. Once you’re done paying us back, you own the equipment again. This works whether you own the equipment outright or are already nancing it with someone else.” Re nancing is for anyone looking to unlock the value of their existing assets to support their business. Whether you own equipment outright or are nancing it elsewhere, re nancing can provide a quick way to access funds for things like new equipment, improving cash ow, or other business needs. It’s a exible option suitable for businesses of all sizes, including sole traders, the company concludes. FG
Tim and Hebe Easby are working with Environment Bank to restore their land with an agricultural BNG Habitat Bank.
YORKSHIRE FARMERS INTRODUCE HABITAT BANKS TO INCREASE BIODIVERSITY
Like many other farmers, Tim and Hebe Easby were looking for an environmental scheme to complement their sustainable farm business and support their ongoing e orts to increase biodiversity on their land by restoring it to a far more natural state.
They wanted to partner with a provider that would take a collaborative approach to land management – one that could o er local ecological expertise and boasted a strong track record for habitat creation in partnership with farmers – so they chose Environment Bank.
Since 2021, Environment Bank has been helping to transform more than 16ha of Tim and Hebe’s 40.5ha North Yorkshire holding into a rich and diverse agricultural Habitat Bank that’s now managed, in part, by sustainably grazing their herds of native livestock.
Increasing biodiversity
“We originally bought the farm in 2000, taking on the previous owner’s dairy farm. We then worked very hard for several years, farming intensively, to not make very much money,” explains Hebe.
“After 10 years, we decided to have a change and found a far lower intensity, more environmentally friendly way of doing things – replacing our suckler herd with pedigree Shorthorn cattle traditionally farmed in the North East and later with a ock of Hebridean sheep.
“We didn’t have any preconceived ideas about BNG, and it didn’t necessarily come down to the shillings and pence for us, it was what Environment Bank would enable us to do.
“We really wanted to do more than just farm
here and do something to actually increase the biodiversity of the place. Over the years, we’ve planted thousands of trees, including new hedgerows, and participated in various environmental schemes – this showed us just how much we could do for the land, and we knew we could do more.”
A great collaboration
“What the team at Environment Bank have done at our farm is exactly what they said they’d do. You can’t just make trust; it’s developed over time – and there’s a good deal of trust between us,” continues Hebe.
“Nobody was precious about any idea or said that’s the only way you can do it. We can discuss things and suggest what we think will work best. It’s been a great collaboration.
“[Tim] spent a year farming in New Zealand where they used to spread grass seed and use sheep to push it into the ground – and it worked incredibly! So, we suggested doing the same here, which meant we got to use something completely natural.
“We’ve also got two more elds to seed next year and when we start work on all the meadows, there’ll be exibility in our management strategy. Some of it will need to be grazed, some of it will need to be cut – and we’ll be able to have that discussion with Environment Bank.”
is improved where we’ve got wild owers coming.
“In time we’re going to see more biodiversity here because the environment will become more suitable for all the native species that want to be here. In ve years’ time, the fencing for the scrub patches will come down and they’ll be opened up to make good habitats for wildlife. It’s not rocket science, is it really? If you make it a good environment for them, they’ll thrive!
“We’ve got three types of owls here – little owls, tawny owls in the woodland, and you can see barn owls nearly every morning and night. We really think in the future we’ll see more than we do now.
“And the cattle seem really happy! We’re producing seriously high-quality meat and that’s important. If you’re selling a grass-fed and naturally-grazed traditional breed of either sheep or cattle – you’re not only going to keep your cost down, but you bene t in terms of quality. We’re at the stage many years on when we’re beginning to make some money because we’ve got the right product.”
Our advice to farmers
Benefits to business and local area
“We’ll really get the bene t of what we’ve done already by 2026. You can already see that the soil
“It works for us, and we think it works for the countryside too, so we really feel we are doing our bit. It just seems more natural and it’s easier to manage; everything about it just feels right.
“You’d be mad under the current climate not to look at BNG, and the good thing about Environment Bank’s approach is that we get great exibility and great cooperation, so we’re not dictated to by xed timescales that don’t work.”
Environment Bank has partnered with over 30 farmers and landowners across England to restore biodiversity through BNG. To nd out more, visit environmentbank.com FG
At Yorkshire-based Sumo UK, manufacturing and supplying top quality machinery is the priority from start of design to delivery. David Williams paid a visit.
SUPPORTING BRITISH FARMERS WITH DURABLE MACHINERY
“The company owners have huge ambitions for the brand and invest to ensure we o er the very best solutions for UK farmers, which is generating interest and sales from export markets too,” managing director, Steve Ridley told Farmers Guide
Sumo started trading in 1991, but it was the launch of the iconic Trio one-pass stubble cultivator in 2001 that established the company as a leading brand. “It’s almost certainly still the best-selling cultivator in the UK,” continued Steve. “We now o er a wider range of working widths from 2.5–6.5m in mounted and trailed formats as well as multiple point options to meet today’s di erent requirements, but it’s still the same Sumo build quality that farmers love.”
Always non-inversion
Product line-up
Deep tillage tools
Trio – The iconic combination cultivator with subsoiling legs, mixing discs and a rear packer roller.
The company’s range remains rmly focused on tillage machinery and drills although tractor front weight boxes also sell in high numbers. Steve believes that a company strength is that it has never been involved in inversion tillage, so its product line-up has always met sustainable farming requirements from min-till reduced tillage to strip-tillage and zero-till crop establishment, often qualifying for sustainable farming grant funding schemes.
Demand and investment
In 2009, to meet demand and provide space to add drills to the line-up, the business relocated to its current 100,000m2 site. Sumo became part of the Elsham Wold Estate group in 2017, and the company has gone from strength to strength.
Attention to detail
Those visiting the factory will be impressed by the tidy environment and attention to detail. At each stage of manufacture, every component or assembly is measured and checked, and then quality checked. One green magnet is attached each time, or a failure is marked with a red magnet. Nothing moves to the next manufacturing area unless it has two green magnets attached.
Quatro – The Quatro has four working elements. Each can be ne-tuned for a wide range of conditions. A double row of independently adjustable scalloped discs at the front is followed by deep tillage legs, two further rows of discs and a rear Multipacka press roller.
Subsoilers – Traditional arable, mounted soil looseners from 2.7–3.4m working width and trailed versions from 4.7–5.9m are available. The Rippa is a mounted
Sumo managing director, Steve Ridley.
Members of the Sumo team pictured during Farmers Guide's visit.
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heavy cultivator with aggressive tines that lift and shatter slumped soils to aerate and improve soil drainage ahead of planting.
Shallow tillage
The LDS (Low Disturbance Subsoiler) comes in mounted and trailed formats and thoroughly loosens soil at depth with minimum disruption at the surface.
Multipacka – The front-mounted Multipacka press cultivates and consolidates ahead of further cultivations or drilling.
Multipress – The Multipress is a high-speed shallow cultivator with sprung loaded tines, hydraulic-controlled levelling paddles and single or double packer rings. It tills, levels and presses ploughed or cultivated soils and stubbles, leaving a weatherproof surface.
Mixidisc S – A heavy-duty shallow cultivator with independently mounted discs that maintain a constant depth and working result even on uneven ground and at high speeds. It is ideal for tilling and levelling in both primary and secondary cultivations.
Vaxio – The Vaxio is a high-speed and highly versatile cultivator which achieves levelling and consolidation in a single pass.
Strake – The Strake is a high-speed straw rake with a versatile design allowing its use in a wider range of applications.
Seeders
DTS (Deep Tillage Seeder) – this is a strip-till drill available in mounted and trailed versions from 3–9m, all with standard 333mm row spacing and a 120mm double seed row width. As well as direct drilling into stubbles, it can also work on ploughed or pre-cultivated ground making it an ideal option for those moving from plough-based to directdrilling crop establishment. All trailed models come with an integral 3,600-litre hopper, and seed supply is by the Sumo Orga metering system, capable of accurate rates from 0.5kg/ha to 475kg/ha.
Marketing manager, Sophie Theakston with UK territory sales manager, Philip Stephenson, and the Sumo Vaxio high-speed shallow cultivator which is proving exceptionally popular for its consistent nish.
The Sumo Subsoiler is engineered for maximum soil conditioning, improving drainage and root development. Its robust design breaks compaction layers e ciently, promoting healthier, more productive soils and enhancing crop performance.
The Sumo DTS drill is designed to provide just the right amount of tilth to optimise crop establishment, while leaving the soil between the rows untouched. It is capable of operating within all crop establishment regimes from ploughed to pre-cultivated and direct into stubbles.
DD (Direct Drill) – Also available in mounted and trailed variants and with working widths from 3–9m, it is designed to incorporate crop residues as it places seed in the ground. The DD coulter loosens the minimum amount of soil required for seed germination. The 3m mounted versions come with an integral 1,900-litre seed hopper or as a rear-mounted toolbar combined with a frontmounted seed hopper. DD trailed drills feature the
Groundcare products
Sumo recently ventured into the groundcare and smaller scale agricultural markets with several new products. These include a heavy-duty transport box suitable for front- or rear-mounting and with hydraulic tipping. UK territory sales manager Philip Stephenson said there has been
particular interest from Scottish farmers where the durable construction makes it suitable for stone clearing in elds, with the hydraulic tipping allowing convenient emptying on the eld edge.
There is also a small ballast roller and a lowdisturbance grassland subsoiler designed to work down to 30cm. The GLS Lite is suitable for tractors from just 80hp, making it ideal for vineyard and orchard soil loosening too.
More to come?
Asked about potential further additions to the product line-up, Steve suggested that at least two new machines will debut later this year.
Growing demand
UK product demand accounts for around 70% of total sales. A growing network of 34 UK dealers provide over 90 outlets, and although arable products still dominate the range, dealers in mixed farming areas sell drills and grassland subsoilers in large numbers too.
“We have a great network, and in terms of sales our top 10 highest performing dealers include all the major tractor brands. We also have carefully selected independent smaller dealers who between them supply most other makes of tractor.
“We know our place though; we are never going to be the primary franchise for these businesses, but we do add value in terms of signi cant extra sales and providing their customers with practical solutions,” con rmed Steve.
Demand from overseas markets is also growing, and Sumo already has importation and dealer
Staggered low draught subsoiler legs, working down to 400mm and set at 500mm spacing, providing full width lift and pan shatter.
Twin row of 500mm doubledrive scalloped discs, providing intense surface cultivation and trash mixing down to 100mm.
Proven Mulitpacka which leaves the surface level and evenly consolidated across the full width.
This combination cultivator is used for both shallow mixing and deep cultivation in one single pass. Working in this way minimises fuel and labour costs whilst creating a more supported soil structure.
The DD direct drill o ers exceptional depth control for even emergence.
agreements in place in 27 countries. European interest has encouraged Sumo to book a stand at the German Agritechnica show this autumn.
“Our growing product line-up as well as the options we o er means we can meet the requirements of farmers outside the UK too. There is especially strong demand for our iconic Trio and seeding equipment in Europe currently, and at Agritechnica our aim is to raise awareness of our product portfolio to both farmers and potential dealers.”
Key strategies
“With annual production growing year on year, we are keen to continue the success,” Steve con rmed. “Our ve-year plan relies on key strategies including continuing to look after existing partners while strengthening our global distribution, increasing manufacturing capacity and e ciency, always improving on quality and being ready to invest to maintain an increasing sales trajectory. However, to achieve all of
this depends on our employees. We prioritise recruitment of local labour as we want people to stay with us long-term, and for those who are with us there is continuous competency development.
“2023 was a fantastic trading year for Sumo, in terms of sales generation and overall business and product development. Our continued success is about our people, our products and our business partners.” FG
Leading row of straight serrated discs cut into trashy high-residue conditions whilst minimising surface disturbance created by the legs.
Staggered low-disturbance winged points lift and shatter the soil profile with a maximum depth of 350mm and a spacing of 500mm.
A range of packer options are available to offer the best consolidated and level finish for your conditions.
The LDS alleviates subsurface compaction with minimal surface disturbance, creating a well structured, aerated and free-draining soil. Leading serrated discs open the ground ahead of the low-disturbance leg, which lifts the soil relieving any compaction. A choice of packer then firms the ground.
Members of the manufacturing and quality team, (l-r) dealer support manager, Charles Harvey, fabrication and welding supervisor, Chris Langdale, production manager, Mitchell Clarke, and head of engineering and quality, Tim Lord.
Only after components have been measured and then quality inspected are they able to progress to the manufacturing area.
Farmers Guide’s Daniel Hodge and David Williams paid a visit to DJ Agri Services exactly one year after its founding to find out how business is going.
New dealer profile: DJ AGRI SERVICES
At a time when too many agricultural dealerships are shutting their doors, DJ Agri Services is doing the opposite by starting up a business dedicated to o ering a much-needed service for farmers in Su olk and beyond. With a deep-rooted passion for agricultural engineering, and a commitment to personalised customer service, DJ Agri Services is rapidly establishing itself as a go-to service provider for farmers.
Founded in March 2024, DJ Agri Services was born from the closure of Su olk Agri Centre, where co-founder David Filby had built an 18-year career in agricultural engineering. David and his wife Jenna saw an opportunity to create a more customerfocused, independent service – one that understood the pressure that farmers face, and could respond with speed, e ciency, and a personal touch.
A
responded to service requests outside of business hours. “Farming can be lonely – I think it matters a lot knowing that they have someone at the end of the phone who can do something. Plus, if someone’s got a half-million-pound sprayer that’s not working, they need it going whatever the time is.” Jenna drove the point home: “We’ve built this around the idea that farmers shouldn’t have to wait for the support they need.”
A complete service
DJ Agri Services o ers a full suite of services to support farm businesses. Its expertise spans across:
• Machinery repairs and servicing – Covering tractors, sprayers, spreaders, and drills, DJ Agri Services works on a range of brands
changing dealership landscape
The recent closures of dealerships in the region have left farmers struggling to nd reliable service. David said that large corporate dealerships, although lling an important role, often come with longer wait times and less personal service, sometimes making it di cult for farmers who need urgent repairs or maintenance. David said that DJ Agri Services aims to ll this gap by o ering an independent, full-service dealership that prioritises quick response times, expertise across multiple brands, and a strong commitment to customer care.
David emphasised his pride in being directly accessible to farmers, saying that he had often
• Diagnostics and technical support – The company has invested in specialist tools that allow them to diagnose and repair modern machinery, including JCB, McCormick, and Amazone equipment
Community support
• Sprayer MOTs – Farmers can get their sprayers fully serviced, tested, and certi ed for use without the hassle of dealing with multiple service providers
• Parts supply – DJ Agri Services stocks a wide range of lters, wearing metals, and other spare parts
• Horticultural equipment servicing – In addition to large-scale farm machinery, DJ Agri Services also services lawnmowers and other small machinery.
Both David and Jenna are keen to showcase DJ Agri Services’ commitment to supporting the farming community. This attitude is exempli ed in its o ering of free breakdown cover for tractors taking part in the recent slow protests through Ipswich and Stowmarket. They said that the response to this was overwhelmingly positive. “We knew we had to be there,” said David. “Without farmers, we wouldn’t have a job, or food, so we have to stand with them when they need support.”
David also emphasised how strong relationships have been essential in building the business, ultimately leading to an even more complete service for the customer: “This job isn’t just about xing machines,” he said. “It’s also about knowing the right people and helping each other out.” David also acknowledges that DJ Agri Services might not have even existed without encouragement from a close friend, commenting: “They gave us the reassurance that we could make a go of starting the business this time last year.”
Looking to the future
With demand for services increasing, DJ Agri Services is preparing to expand to a dedicated premises, allowing them to o er greater stocking of parts, expanding workshop space to accommodate more large-scale repairs, and to o er an even greater range of services to farmers and local businesses.
Despite rapid growth in a “whirlwind” rst year, it is clear that DJ Agri Services remains committed to its core values of personal, reliable, and expert service to the agricultural community. It is proving that independent service providers still have a crucial role to play in British agriculture, helping farmers keep their businesses running smoothly –even in a changing and unpredictable industry.
DJ Agri Services founders,
Jenna and David Filby.
Testing Can-Am’s latest ATVs and SSVs
Can-Am recently hosted a press event in France, showcasing its latest ATVs and SSVs. Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge took them out for a test drive.
ground; a mix of muddy, rut- lled tracks, stony paths, expansive farmland, steep hills, dense forests, and even a specially designed assault course with challenging sand pits and sharply undulating terrain. Weather conditions were optimal, with bright sunshine and temperatures hovering around 12ºC.
Across the four-hour test drive, Farmers Guide had the chance to thoroughly evaluate several Can-Am models, including the utility focused Outlander Pro HD5, HD7, the powerful, performance-focused Outlander 1000R, and the versatile Traxter, in both wheeled and tracked con gurations.
Generational upgrades
Improvements from the previous generation of ATVs are expansive and include signi cant enhancements in engine power and torque. For example, the Outlander 1000R now boasts 101hp from its 999cc Rotax engine, an increase from the previous generation’s 91hp. The new power unit o ers increased performance through a higher compression ratio of 11.8:1 compared to 10.6:1 in earlier models, increasing e ciency and power per cc.
A redesigned CVT system complements the engine upgrades, featuring a new pDrive primary clutch that claims to deliver smoother and faster gear shifts with signi cantly reduced noise and vibration. This system has been paired with a revised CVT ratio that enhances low-end torque, which Can-Am claims is an essential upgrade for heavy-duty agricultural tasks. Additionally, the new drivetrain features spiral bevel gears which are claimed to reduce overall noise and improve reliability.
The suspension systems have undergone substantial revisions. Both front and rear suspensions now use an arched A-arm design, signi cantly increasing suspension travel, and increasing ground clearance to 30.5cm. The introduction of a new dynamic power steering (DPS) calibration improves turning radius and stability at higher speeds.
Regarding ergonomics and design, the newly designed seat and footboards help to improve rider comfort, particularly during extended use. Can-Am was keen to highlight the advanced computer simulations used to improve heat management through optimisation of air ow and carefully placed heat shielding. Maintenance accessibility has also been improved, with toolless access to critical components.
Advanced technology is available, should you want it, such as with the new optional 10.25in touchscreen display that’s available on premium models, o ering intuitive interfaces, detailed vehicle diagnostics, and built in navigation capabilities.
Key features
One of the event highlights was the innovative LinQ accessory system, which allowed swift and low e ort swapping of attachments and accessories without tools. This system was clearly practical, allowing swapping of attachments in conditions farmers will often face: darkness, wet weather, or when heavy gloves are necessary. Simply put, the LinQ system ensures accessories like storage boxes, gun cases, or fuel caddies can be secured and/or swapped in seconds.
One standout feature observed was the front-mounted implements, such as brushes, snowploughs, and mowers. BRP’s business
Serviceable components are easily accessible via a single panel on each side of the ATVs.
The LinQ system enabled fast and easy changes of accessories.
development manager for the utility market, Aymeric Collot, shared rsthand experiences from his own vineyard, highlighting how quickly and e ectively he was able to clear barns and storage areas. He emphasised how essential these frontmounted attachments were in daily vineyard management and property maintenance, reinforcing the practical utility farmers and estate managers would undoubtedly appreciate.
In relation to the implements, the ease with which they could be swapped and attached using the vehicle’s integrated winch was readily observable. This approach demonstrated notable e ciency, signi cantly reducing the time and e ort required for changing implements, improving exibility and responsiveness of farm operations.
Can-Am also highlighted the safety features that are present in its vehicles. Each ATV and SSV tested featured a robust ABS, which, during testing, o ered reliable stopping power even under abrupt braking conditions on loose or muddy terrain. The vehicles also incorporated individual, digitally coded keys that are unique to each vehicle, signi cantly enhancing theft prevention – a feature increasingly valuable to rural operators concerned about security.
One particularly impressive feature that was tested involved Can-Am’s Intelligent Engine Braking (IEB) system. When navigating steep descents, the adjustable system would kickin automatically, allowing for precise speed management without relying heavily on the vehicle’s brakes. Adjustments to braking strength were intuitive, utilising a small rocker switch on the handlebars easily accessible by the thumb. Adjustments to braking strength could be made on the y – an ideal feature for safely managing heavy loads down slippery or uneven slopes commonly found on farms.
Testing also highlighted the versatility and user-friendliness of the traction control systems. Shifting between 2wd and 4wd modes was
seamless, doable while moving, and provided immediate adaptability to changing terrain conditions. Whether encountering deep mud, loose gravel, or steep climbs, the vehicles e ortlessly transitioned every time, o ering consistent traction and con dence-inspiring stability.
Comfort and ergonomics were evidently high on Can-Am’s priority list; after approximately four hours of non-stop rigorous testing, including continuous riding and operating across challenging terrain, rider fatigue was minimal –a testament to the vehicles’ carefully designed ergonomics and ease-of-use. The seating was supportive yet comfortable, controls intuitive, and the ride quality impressively smooth even on rough, uneven ground. Ergonomic considerations such as a well-positioned, and newly improved gear lever (H, L, P, N, R) made shifting straightforward and quick, further reducing operator fatigue.
The heat management system, crucial on powerful vehicles like the Outlander 1000R, performed exceptionally well. Even during prolonged operation, there was no perceived heat discomfort and certainly no risk of burns to the insides of legs from hot engine components, highlighting another subtle yet essential detail that greatly enhances user experience and safety.
Ease of maintenance was prominently discussed. Major serviceable components, such as the air lter, engine, and CVT gearbox were readily accessible via either single-piece side panels or by simply lifting the dashboard. This streamlined approach signi cantly simpli es routine maintenance tasks, reducing downtime and enhancing the practicality of these vehicles in demanding, busy agricultural operations.
Traxter SSV
The versatility of the Traxter SSV series was on full display. Featuring easily removable side panels on the cargo bed, the Traxter allows farmers to convert quickly to a atbed con guration, providing versatile load-carrying options. With a towing capacity of up to 1,134kg, the Traxter could handle some tasks typically reserved for small tractors.
The tracked version of the Traxter was also trialled and o ered exceptional traction in all conditions tested. Whilst primarily marketed towards regions with heavy snow and ice, it would o er advantages in challenging terrains also regularly found in the UK, such as very muddy elds and slopes.
Additionally, Can-Am emphasised its thoughtful approach to designing comfortable, intuitive interiors in the SSVs. Adjustable seating and steering wheels, USB sockets, and other optional extras in Traxter models ensure operators of all sizes can comfortably control and manoeuvre vehicles over extended periods. Features like reinforced seat covers also cater speci cally to the tough, demanding farm environment.
In a conversation with BRPs senior advisor for consumer experience, Olaf Veltman, he highlighted that Can-Am’s utility vehicles are becoming increasingly attractive due to their combination of functionality and competitive pricing. He went on to point out that these
The Traxter Pro XU HD10.
Creature comforts are present in the Traxter series.
caddies, gun case, and a front brush attachment.
vehicles can o er substantial capabilities at a fraction of the cost of even a low-end tractor, making them an appealing, cost-e ective choice for farms requiring versatile and reliable machinery without the signi cant investment associated with traditional farming equipment.
Lasting impressions
The strongest overall impression that remains from the testing was the sheer ease and
accessibility of the vehicles. The Outlander and Traxter models delivered a genuinely intuitive “twist-and-go” feel, making operation straightforward, even for those who might be less experienced. Additionally, regardless of the task at hand, each vehicle tested felt that it consistently had ample power reserves available.
Can-Am’s latest range of ATVs and SSVs represent a compelling option for agricultural
users looking for productivity, safety, and comfort. Through innovation like the LinQ accessory system, adaptable traction control, intelligent engine braking, impressive ergonomics, easy maintenance access, and robust practical features, these vehicles are more than capable. The practical feedback from first-hand testing has clearly underlined Can-Am’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the agricultural community. FG
Farmers Guide’s machinery reporter Daniel Hodge putting the Outlander 1000R through its paces.
The Stratford depot has undergone a quiet but signi cant transformation since coming under the banner of Oliver Landpower. With a heritage stretching back decades and a newly invigorated approach to customer service, parts, and technical support, the dealership is now part of a ve-branch network covering the east coast to the M5.
“We’re new here as a company, but the business has deep roots in the area,” explained Oliver Landpower’s managing director Charlie Glenister. “Today is about opening our doors, allowing customers to experience rsthand the improvements and service continuity we’re bringing. Reliable after-sales support is vital; farmers need assurance that we’ll look after them as equipment becomes more technically advanced.”
The dealership stocks machinery and parts from a number of premium agricultural brands, including JCB, Kuhn, and Sumo, some of whom were represented in-person at the event with sales sta and brand reps on hand to discuss performance specs, pricing, nance, and availability.
Among the machines drawing attention were JCB’s popular Loadall range, Kuhn’s square balers and tedders, and Sumo’s robust cultivation equipment. Albutt’s range of attachments also had steady interest. However, the standout attraction on the day was the recently launched 542-100 telehandler, praised for its unique 50kph capability and impressive lift capacity of 4.5t to 10m.
Charlie explained that Oliver Landpower’s strategy is about more than stocking machines –it’s about selecting the right brands for the local customer base. “We tailor what we do to the area.
In Stratford, that means a focus on Loadalls, grassland and forage kit, and increasingly, low-disturbance cultivation equipment.”
The Stratford depot bene ts from an experienced on-site
Stratford’s inaugural open day
Oliver Landpower hosted its first open day at its Stratford branch since acquiring LQG Agri. Daniel Hodge reports.
team, many of whom stayed on after the transition from LQG Agri.
“If you call us needing a part, you’re not just limited to what’s here – we can source across the group,” said Charlie. “It’s the same with engineers, technical advice, and even loan machines when needed. The bene t to the customer is faster turnaround, better service, and less downtime.” FG
JCB shows strength
JCB’s agricultural machinery remains a strong performer across the Oliver Landpower group, particularly when it comes to loaders and telehandlers. JCB’s territory sales manager Tim Weatherhead (pictured on the right) noted consistent year-round demand, particularly for models like the 542-70 telehandler (pictured) and TM320 telescopic loader, favoured by both arable and livestock sectors. JCB’s agricultural eld sales manager Mark Eastoll (left) highlighted the new JCB Bale Master that has been selling well, and commented: “Competitive pricing on all JCB attachments are available by contacting Oliver Landpower.”
Members of the Oliver Landpower team, pictured at the event.
Oliver Landpower managing director Charlie Glenister.
Sumo highlights practicality and precision
Sumo’s range of cultivation and seeding equipment struck a chord with visitors looking for dependable, no-nonsense machinery. “We’re seeing a resurgence in demand for our Trio range,” said Sumo’s export sales manager, Rob Shepherd. “It’s a solid, one-pass machine that’s been around for over 30 years, and in a tight nancial climate, it’s proving its value again.”
Sumo also highlighted its focus on low-disturbance cultivation – something that has moved from fringe to mainstream in recent years. New toolbar systems are being developed to suit regenerative approaches and o er versatility across di erent crop systems.
While demand in the UK remains conservative, Sumo is seeing stronger traction in Europe. “There’s more funding and clearer guidance for farmers on that side of the Channel. But, British farmers still want quality, and we’re committed to supporting them with machines that make nancial sense and perform in the eld.”
Sumo hinted at plans to introduce innovative, low-disturbance tillage equipment at AgriTechnica later this year, aligning closely with current sustainability and regenerative agriculture trends.
Albutt continues to impress
Albutt’s parts and sales specialist James Lewis was on hand to showcase the bale handlers, buckets, silage rakes, and buckrakes that Albutt is known for. Albutt appears to be doing well domestically and abroad, as James joked about sales of the new Albutt silage defacer in New Zealand that he wished he could hand deliver. “This is a relatively new product for us at around 12 months old but is already selling well. Only recently, I took it for a demo on a farm, and it never left. When kit like this just works, and you get to show that, it sells itself really.”
James noted how sales of buckrakes had been picking up ahead of silage season, and said that although business was generally stronger this time of year, that Albutt saw consistent business throughout the year from regular customers.
Our semi-commercial greenhouses fill the niche in the market between the largest available domestic greenhouses and full-scale commercial glasshouses.
Drawing on over 30 years of experience, we design each building individually to fit the space available and to meet the specific requirements of each customer.
METTRON WEIGHING
Log Cabins
Granny Annexes
STRIP-TILL PREPARATOR
Kuhn demonstrates trust and innovation
Kuhn machinery was in strong attendance at the event, showing o a full line-up of square and round balers, the popular Espro min-till drill, strip-till cultivators, and the new GF13003 – Kuhn’s largest mounted tedder and the only 13m mounted tedder in the UK. Having been recently sold to a local customer, the GF 13003 was a highlight for many visitors, particularly those preparing for silage season. Kuhn’s UK sales manager John Hulland (pictured on the left) was keen to highlight how the GF13003 has a working width of 13m and 12 rotors, ensuring it is capable of meeting a huge range of working requirements. He also emphasised the excellent ground contour following as well as high-quality forage pick-up.
Kuhn’s area sales manager Liam James (right) praised the diverse nature of local farming in the Stratford area: “It’s a brilliant mix of large arable farms and small-to-medium livestock units. Our product range suits both ends of that scale.”
Local farmer feedback
Graham Gibbs, a 162ha dairy farmer from Bromsgrove, was one of several local producers to share positive feedback on the day. Having recently purchased a Kuhn rake (pictured) and operating two JCB Loadalls, he praised the dealership for its service. “They’re friendly, easy to talk to, and always happy to help.” He also spoke about some of the practical challenges of modern farming: “When it gets hot, the cows su er from heat stress. We’re installing fans today to try and help manage that.” He continued: “The thing is, nding time to do stu like that is a whole lot harder if you’re constantly dealing with machinery that’s playing up or not working, so, having support like we get here at Oliver Landpower makes all the di erence.” Graham is pictured on the left, with farmhand Jamie Hat eld in front of a recent Kuhn rake purchase.
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BRITISH MANUFACTURING ENDURES
Stocks Ag’s revival exemplifies the importance of strategic investment and innovation in British agricultural manufacturing. Daniel Hodge visited the Wisbech site.
When James Woolway acquired Stocks Ag in August 2020, he knew he was taking on more than just a company – he was inheriting a long-standing and respected legacy that had slowly stagnated through lack of investment and innovation. Situated in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, Stocks Ag has proudly manufactured specialist agricultural wheels since 1977 and later, applicators. However, by the time James stepped in, the facilities and machinery had barely progressed beyond their original setup, with outdated equipment and crumbling infrastructure re ective of decades without meaningful investment.
“When we took over, everything here dated back to the 1970s or 80s,” James recalls. “Machinery was antiquated, the buildings were in disrepair, and there hadn’t been meaningful product innovation in years.”
A challenging road
Determined to restore and revitalise this British manufacturing business, James undertook a sweeping series of improvements, both infrastructural and strategic. “We immediately began modernising the site,” he explains, and the scope of the initial work helped to illustrate the amount of work ahead. “We had to install new wiring, new plumbing, lighting, central heating, air conditioning, new IT systems, pretty much everything on site needed to be changed or updated. It was a gargantuan task, especially in the midst and wake of Covid-19.” Despite the signi cant investment at this stage, James emphasises that these were fundamental changes that dramatically improved working conditions and morale.
Modernisation wasn’t restricted to quality-of-life upgrades. Crucially, Stocks Ag has invested heavily in new manufacturing equipment, introducing robotic welding
technology, precision laser cutting, and advanced press braking – upgrades that have profoundly transformed the company’s manufacturing capabilities.
“Previously, we couldn’t produce products e ciently due to outdated equipment. With the investments we made in new machinery we have brought more production in-house, which has helped reduce costs and substantially improved quality control,” James adds. Tim Farrow, technical director, adds that by having product design and manufacture performed in house, the R&D process has been signi cantly streamlined: “If there’s something we want to look at, something new we want to test or trial – we’re not waiting around on other people to make it happen. We can do exactly what we need to do, when we need to, and that has been crucial in designing new, and redesigning old products.”
TurboJet models exempli ed this renewed focus, driving signi cant interest from both domestic and international markets.
“Customers can now see we’re actively developing products again,” notes James. “That’s been a huge draw. Our products are tailored to modern agriculture, addressing today’s challenges like soil compaction, precise application of inputs, and adaptability to diverse farming operations.”
Another signi cant challenge James faced was transitioning Stocks Ag from traditional paperdrafted designs to modern CAD-based systems. “Nothing had been ‘designed to be made’ before,” he explains. “Our products had been historically designed on paper, with little thought given to how e ciently they could be manufactured. Redesigning products with manufacturing e ciency in mind was transformative. It allowed us to dramatically reduce assembly times – from around ve hours per unit to less than an hour in some cases. This alone created substantial cost savings and increased our overall productivity.”
Continuing to innovate
This revitalisation extended beyond mere machinery. Stocks Ag has clearly recommitted itself to innovation. Previously reliant on legacy products – like the popular dual wheels and applicators known by farmers nationwide – Stocks Ag embarked on a period of intensive product development. Newer, more e cient applicators such as the updated FanJet and
Stocks Ag’s approach has combined traditional strengths with innovation. For example, the company re-engineered its wheel ranges to suit contemporary agricultural demands – heavier loads, higher speeds, and greater e ciency. Such adaptability has helped Stocks Ag reclaim its position at the forefront of agricultural wheel manufacturing, gaining traction in markets traditionally dominated by European competitors.
British pride
An essential factor in the revival of Stocks Ag has been its strong identity as a British manufacturer. “There is undoubtedly growing demand for UKmade agricultural machinery,” sales manager Sean Stan eld explains. “Farmers increasingly value British engineering for its quality and reliability. For us, ying the Union Jack on our products isn’t just marketing – it’s about being part of a movement
The team at Wisbech (l-r): Tim Farrow, Gwynfor Evans, David Goodale, Andrew Holloway, Sean Stan eld, Reuben Johnson, Jonny Hall, Ludmila Ferreira, Peter Newman, Marcus Scott, Andrew Ratcli e, Ben Baynes, Daniel Notley, William O’Neill, Claire Scho eld, Gary Lucas, Lee Norman, James Britain, Joel Faulker, and James Woolway.
Stocks Ag’s managing director James Woolway.
Stocks Ag’s technical director, Tim Farrow and sales manager, Sean Stan eld.
that supports local manufacturing and the broader UK agricultural industry. We care deeply about that.”
The team at Stocks Ag were keen to highlight the importance of a personal, responsive customer service. “We’ve focused heavily on improving customer interaction. Whether through direct human support instead of impersonal automated systems or detailed product registration that ensures prompt, accurate after-sales support, our goal is always to put the customer rst,” says James. Indeed, this approach has resonated well, providing another layer of competitive advantage. Customers appreciate the e ciency and personal care demonstrated by Stocks Ag, particularly in a sector where downtime can signi cantly impact farm operations.
Yet, despite considerable successes, Stocks Ag remains focused rmly on the future. “We’re starting to see real opportunities, especially in export markets,” James explains enthusiastically.
“Internationally, the Stocks Ag brand already carries respect, but previously, we lacked the infrastructure to fully exploit that reputation. Now, equipped with our modernised facility and rejuvenated product range, we’re poised for signi cant growth.”
Recent initiatives, including participation in international exhibitions like Agritechnica, have begun yielding results. “Our presence abroad is expanding, driven by careful market selection and strategic relationship-building,” says James. He notes recent successes in diverse markets, such as Japan, Scandinavia, New Zealand, and parts of mainland Europe.
“In essence, we’ve been rebuilding Stocks Ag from the ground up,” James summarises. “It was never just about survival – it’s always been about thriving, about setting a benchmark for what British agricultural manufacturing can achieve with vision and commitment.”
On the floor
As Stocks Ag approaches its fth year under James’ stewardship, the transformation is remarkable. Farmers Guide was lucky to experience a guided tour of the manufacturing facilities rst-hand whilst working. The Wisbech facility buzzes with activity, precision machinery hums with e ciency, and employees, some who’ve seen decades of stagnation, now work within an environment clearly oriented toward growth and innovation.
One of the earliest stops was the advanced laser cutting system, a signi cant upgrade crucial to the operation. “We used to rely heavily on outsourced
components,” James explains. “But now we cut most parts ourselves, signi cantly reducing costs and wastage. ” The transition to in-house laser cutting has not only improved the speed of production but also allowed for precision and exibility that was previously unachievable. Sheets of metal are e ciently nested, minimising scrap and maximising material use – a sharp contrast to the previous reliance on manual gas cutting methods.
A new press brake complemented the laser cutter and was seen bending precision-cut metal into complex shapes swiftly and accurately. “Transitioning from old methods has been challenging,” James acknowledges, “but the e ciency gains are substantial and the e ect of that mustn’t be underestimated.”
Nearby, the robotic welding unit was in action, demonstrating another major leap forward. “This robot signi cantly speeds up production,” James remarks. “Tasks that used to take an hour or more by hand now take around 40 minutes, and importantly, with absolute consistency.” Despite the automation improvements, he also highlighted the necessity
of maintaining manual welding skills for speci c, low-volume tasks that are not economically viable for automation, ensuring versatility in their ability to ful l customer requests.
The wheel assembly area demonstrated the intricacies of wheel production. James pointed out large stacks of metal centres, which are welded into rims speci cally matched to tire sizes and customer speci cations. “We maintain extensive stocks of components to respond rapidly to bespoke orders,” he notes. “It helps us commit to a fast turnaround and ful l a wide range of customer orders. It’s rare that any two would be the same.”
Farmers Guide also visited the painting and nishing area, where Stocks Ag’s meticulous approach to nish and quality was on display. “We are able to nish any piece in any colour, whatever the customer wants,” added James.
The tour reinforced Stocks Ag’s commitment to continuous improvement, evident in its plans for a new, large shot-blasting unit that is projected to cut down material prep time from a couple of hours down to a few minutes. “Every step we’ve taken is about enhancing our e ciency and quality however we can. The di cult part has been deciding what to do, what to spend, and importantly, where to do it.”
Transforming British business
Stocks Ag’s story, therefore, is one of vision, resilience, and strategic investment – a compelling testament to the possibilities that are still present within British manufacturing. James’ journey from purchasing a struggling legacy business to overseeing its comprehensive transformation embodies a belief in the enduring value of quality British manufacturing. Re ecting on the journey, James is optimistic: “We’ve come far, but there’s still so much more ahead. Stocks Ag has again reinforced its place as a trusted brand. The future from here is very exciting indeed.” FG
Stocks Ag holds extensive stock and is shipping worldwide.
(Pictured clockwise from top left): The new laser cutter, press brake, painting room and robotic welder.
Revolutionising bale handling
Irish-based company JM Agri
Design says its TR-8 bale handler is set to transform bale handling for UK farmers, o ering a solution that signi cantly enhances productivity. It’s designed to move both round and square bales with remarkable ease and speed, making it an ideal tool for modern farming operations.
Versatility is one of its standout features. Whether dealing with round or square bales, the TR-8 ensures seamless operation. This adaptability is particularly bene cial for UK farmers who often face varying bale types, sizes and di erent stacking orientations, without any adjustment needed when jumping from square to round bales, or stacking round bales on edge or on the at.
JM Agri Design says the TR-8’s robust construction and advanced engineering guarantee reliable performance, even in the most demanding conditions.
Key features include:
• In-cab control box – Allows for independent arm control, providing precise handling and manoeuvrability directly from
the cab
• Free rotating rollers –Facilitate smooth and e ortless movement of bales, ensuring minimal damage and optimising handling speed
• High-quality and robust build – Constructed using the latest in robotic welding technology, to withstand the rigours of agricultural use, ensuring durability and long-term reliability.
JM Agri Design says the TR-8 is a “game-changer for UK agriculture”, meaning bale handling has never been easier or faster. For more information or to order online, visit the company’s UK website: www.jmagridesign.co.uk FG
Phenomenal interest in auctions
York Machinery Sales has experienced exceptional interest in its spring auctions, with interest from around the world. The success of these sales has been fuelled by the rising cost of new equipment. As a result, second hand machinery sales have become an increasingly popular and cost-e ective alternative.
With a six- gure database and some auctions surpassing one million views of its online catalogues, demand has been unprecedented this year. In the rst two sales of 2025, a total of 8,600 lots were put forward achieving over a 90% sell rate with 3,177 registered active bidders from the UK, Europe, the Middle
East and North Africa competing for equipment.
Richard Tasker, partner at York Auction Centre, said excellent prices have been achieved in the rst quarter of this year. There are nine sales in the year, each attracting between 3,500 and 4,500 lots of tractors, loaders, trailers, agricultural and commercial machinery, livestock requisites, plant and equipment, building materials and produce.
Machinery sales manager Will Amos said the success is also a re ection on the specialist expertise o ered in delivery of a sale – adding that the timed online auctions ensure the maximum opportunity for bids. FG
ANGLIAN WILLOW SERVICE
5
Will Amos, machinery sales manager, and Richard Tasker, partner at York Auction Centre.
Provita Protect Prevention is better than cure!
• The only licensed clinically proven calf probiotic on the market
• Scour reduced by 83%
• 31% better daily weight gains
• Better immunity
• 70% less respiratory disease
*References available on request
Administer as soon as possible to newborn or bought-in calves. Suitable for use on all dairy and beef calves
CONTACT US
+44 28 8225 2352
info@provita.co.uk
www.provita.co.uk
Provita Protect is the first, fully authorised and proven probiotic for calves, demonstrating the immunological link between beneficial gut bacteria and other organs.
“The gut is the largest immune organ in the body, and as such is rst line of defence against the threat of enteric disease,” explained Tom Barragry, a retired professor of Veterinary Pharmacology & Therapeutics at University College Dublin School of Veterinary Science. “It is speci c bacteria present in the gut that provide this protection. Obviously, the greater the number of bene cial organisms that are present in the gut, the more signi cant will be the disease prevention levels secured.
Trial work
The former UCD academic was centrally involved in the calf trial work undertaken to secure licences that were issued on behalf of Provita Protect in Ireland and the UK 25 years ago. It remains the only probiotic with this speci c level of proven accreditation within both markets.
Amongst the key ndings in the extensive eld trials performed with Provita Protect in young calves were:
Dr Barragry, who acts as an independent veterinary advisor with Provita, added: “This is why it is so important to ensure that calves receive an e ective probiotic as soon after birth as possible. The bene cial bacteria that are delivered to the gut will then act to complement the disease protection provided by the antibodies that are present in colostrum. But we also know that the action of bene cial bacteria in the gut will be longer lasting than that achieved by colostral antibodies.”
Commensal bacteria (bene cial gut bacteria) produce chemicals called bacteriocins, which kill pathogenic organisms such as E. coli in the gut. Gut bacteria also release immune stimulators such as fatty acids that can travel to other parts of the body, for example the lungs, providing an additional disease prevention mechanism.
“The end result is a signi cant reduction in antibiotic usage on those farms where probiotics are administered to both dairy and beef bred calves from the earliest possible age. This assumes that all other aspects of calf husbandry are maintained to the highest standards,” Dr Barragry said.
• Incidence of scour in treated calves reduced by 83%
• Incidence of respiratory disease reduced by 70%
• Provita Protect was at least as e ective as antibiotics in scouring calves (together with electrolytes)
• Treated calves were heavier at weaning
• Treated calves showed nearly 10% liveweight gain increase over untreated controls (based on over 400 calves in various eld trials).
The decrease in respiratory disease observed can be scienti cally attributed to the immune signalling that travels from the bene cial gut organisms to the lungs. It is established that scouring calves are 20 times more susceptible to respiratory disease. Thus, a healthy gut will help not only promote healthy gut function but also lung health.
Dr Barragry added: “Signi cantly, all parameters that relate to the performance of young calves were impacted positively by
Protect. These include scour prevention, optimal respiratory health and improved daily liveweight gains.
These results con rm the myriad bene ts, which the product will deliver when o ered to young calves.”
Sealing the gut wall
Critical to Protect’s mode of action is the probiotic’s ability to e ectively seal tight junctions in the gut wall.
“Damage to the gut wall, speci cally the opening up of spaces between epithelial cells that make up the lining of the intestine can lead to what’s called leaky gut syndrome. This creates an easy point of entry into the bloodstream for pathogens such as E. coli bacteria, rotavirus and the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium,” he said.
“By helping to seal the gut lining, probiotics work to prevent these pathogens having a negative impact on the health of calves in the rst place. Bene cial bacteria that are present in the gut will successfully compete with pathogens and exclude from the gut. This e ect can be measured over a signi cant number of weeks and is well beyond the period of time within which colostral antibodies will remain active.”
Scour problems overcome
The Killen family milk 475 cows at Newbuildings, Co Derry, and have 400 animals calving from end of September to Christmas. Despite ensuring newborn calves get su cient colostrum as soon after birth as possible, in the past they had trouble with some calves scouring.
Christopher Killen was encouraged to dose all calves born on the farm with Provita Protect, and saw an almost immediate reduction in scours, which are now a thing of the past for the farm. “On the odd occasion when the problem does arise, we would make additional Protect available to the a ected calf. And, again, this approach works.”
Protect can be used on newborn calves, bought-in calves, at times of stress or after antibiotic treatment. Newborn calves should receive 5ml on day one as close to birth as possible, then 2.5ml on days two and three. At times of stress or after antibiotics, 2.5ml should be given per day as required.
Protect contains 10 billion unique, triple-strain probiotic bacteria per course.
For more information contact Provita directly or visit www.provita.co.uk FG
Provita animal health farm sales representative Owen Kelly (left), with dairy farmer Chris Killen.
FRESH INSIGHT INTO BRD IN DAIRY CALVES
Nearly a third of calves in the UK experience bovine respiratory disease and subclinical pneumonia.
Approximately 1.4 million dairy calves are born in the UK each year, yet bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is one of the leading causes of disease in pre-weaned calves and is the main reason for antibiotic use in this population.
However, diagnosis of the condition is challenging and has traditionally involved the assessment of clinical signs using scoring methods such as the Wisconsin Respiratory Score, which identi es disease based on visible signs including cough, nasal or ocular discharge, ear position and temperature. More precise techniques for the diagnosis of disease are available, such as thoracic ultrasound, which can help to diagnose the condition with greater precision.
Research by the Royal Veterinary College, led by George Lindley, PhD student and European veterinary specialist in bovine health
management, sought to combine both techniques to measure disease levels in UK dairy herds. This is the rst study of its kind to explore the frequency of bovine respiratory disease using thoracic ultrasound in a large subset of English dairy herds.
Researchers measured the occurrence of bovine respiratory disease in 476 calves born on 16 dairy farms located in south-west England. Researchers performed a total of 3,344 weekly exams from birth until weaning (approximately eight weeks of age), measuring the respiratory health of calves using both ultrasound and scoring techniques.
The research revealed that the peak prevalence of lung consolidation, where air in the lungs is replaced by a solid, uid or other material, occurred at eight weeks of age, reaching 29%. The research also found that subclinical pneumonia, the presence of lung
Optimal health and growth
Family-owned company, M&A
Calf Systems, specialises in computerised calf and lamb feeding systems, pasteurisation technology, and the recently launched Yello Teat antibacterial product.
General manager Martyn Wisden explains: “Anyone can buy a feeding system, but if it’s not programmed properly, it won’t work for you. The Vario Smart Feeder ensures that calves receive a consistent feed intake, which is key to their development.”
If feeding six litres daily, the system can be programmed to deliver two litres at breakfast,
lunch, and tea time. This supports even growth and allows early detection of potential health issues by agging calves that fall below 80% of their typical drinking speed.
Pasteurisation is another crucial tool in managing youngstock health and saves on costs of buying in colostrum.
“Farmers dealing with diseases such as Johne’s can bene t greatly from pasteurisation,” says Martyn.
“Heat-treating colostrum and waste milk makes it safe for calves to consume while retaining vital antibodies unique to their farm.”
Additionally, the Yello Teat product has been designed to enhance hygiene in calf feeding, reducing germ multiplication by up to 99.9%. “Since trialling the Yello Teat on our farm in Oakham, we’ve seen a 50% reduction in antibiotic use,” Martyn reports.
Combining smart feeding, e ective pasteurisation, and improved hygiene, M&A Calf Systems provides science-backed solutions to help raise healthier, more resilient youngstock, improve e ciency and reduce costs. FG
consolidation without outward clinical signs, was common. At any week of age, up to 28.7% of calves were diagnosed with subclinical pneumonia.
These ndings demonstrate that subclinical pneumonia was common in our UK population of dairy-born calves, but diagnosis could easily be missed if only clinical signs are observed. Clinical respiratory scoring will not identify all cases of bovine respiratory disease and thoracic ultrasound is an essential diagnostic technique which should be implemented by vets in clinical practice to support cattle welfare.
Mr Lindley said: “Whilst the disease has negative welfare consequences, a ecting growth, survivability and future productivity, our research suggests that a signi cant proportion of calves born on UK dairy farms may remain undiagnosed when assessed by clinical signs only. Thoracic ultrasound is fast and relatively easy to perform and we hope that more widespread engagement will help to improve youngstock health and performance.” FG
Provider of feeding systems for baby animals for over 30 years, from leading manufacturers specialising in this area – Forster Technik, Britmix and Hiko.
Working with our network of local engineers and installers we are able to offer technical support, a service and repair facility for all types of lamb and calf feeding equipment, along with an extensive range of spare parts and consumables. 07718 270607 (Martyn) 07836 387632 (Paul)
CALF SYSTEMS LTD
Feeding Equipment for Calves and Lambs
COULD FORAGE PLANTAIN BENEFIT YOUR FARM?
season when perennial ryegrass might be coming to head and losing its quality, having a population of AgritaiN in the sward will ensure you keep some level of forage quality. Plantain varieties are deep rooting, so they nd moisture and perform well in a dry summer.
How should it be managed?
AgritaiN o ers a range of benefits, from reduced nitrate leaching to improved animal performance. We spoke to DLF’s Alex Pearson…
Bred in New Zealand, new forage plantain AgritaiN is now available in DLF and Oliver Seeds grass ley mixtures in the UK.
It’s also cool season active and produces really good quality forage with lots of minerals and trace elements in, and it’s got a very similar dry matter yield to perennial ryegrass.
A. It’s very similar to perennial ryegrass and will comfortably withstand a grazing round of 20–30 days. It’ll persist for four years and more within a sward and overseeding is usually successful at anywhere between 4–8kg/ha – so it’s not a massive cost to re-establish it should the need arise.
What are the benefits of AgritaiN?
A. The main environmental bene t is a reduction in nitrate leaching. Estimates show around 90% of nitrate leaching in grazing systems
occurs within the urine patch. A dairy cow typically grazes about 140m2 of sward daily and deposits 50% of that dietary N within a 3m2 patch. That concentration of N in such a small area means plants cannot uptake any of that nitrogen to any meaningful level, which can cause leaching during a water movement.
Additionally, AgritaiN is a very strong pasture species with high yield potential. In the late summer
Meanwhile, it’s very easily harvested so there’s very high intake potential. It’s got very low rumen residence time so animals digest it quickly and return to graze sooner than with the standard ryegrass and white clover sward.
AGRITAIN®
Additionally, AgritaiN has very good protein e ciency. Perennial ryegrass sits at about 51% while AgritaiN is 60%. As a plus, you’re maximising the homegrown protein being utilised by your animals. There are also secondary plant compounds that can o er antibacterial and antiin ammatory properties.
We recommend early spring grazing, especially if you're going to then shut the eld up for rst cut silage. It’s de nitely more bene cial to have a multi-cut system of anywhere between 5–6 cuts. You can still make silage on 3–4 cuts, but if you want to drive quality and make AgritaiN productive, then the higher the cut, the better. It’s worth noting as well, it’s got a lower dry matter percentage than ryegrass, so it requires a bit more time to wilt than usual.
You do have to be careful with planting it in really wet soils, but most places that ryegrass will grow, AgritaiN will as well. FG
SEEDS & SCIENCE
REDUCING N LEACHING NATURALLY & NOW
AgritaiN® is an environmental plantain proven to significantly reduce nitrate leaching from livestock urine patches by up to 89%, providing high-quality forage suitable for various forage systems, especially grazing management. AgritaiN® reduces nitrate losses through four independent mechanisms, making it a valuable tool for sustainable nitrogen management.
Huge reduction in N leaching from the urine patch - up to 89% depending on sward blend*
A natural, environmentally friendly forage solution to mitigate N leaching
Increases feed quality and/or supply during summer and autumn
Improves speed of sward recovery after summer drought
Improves cool season activity of pasture base
An ideal source of minerals for animal health and performance
SPOTLIGHT ON: INNOVATIVE GRAZING ON SALISBURY PLAIN
James Waight runs a seventh-generation family farm in Wiltshire, managing 450 breeding Aberdeen Angus cattle on an 8,000-acre estate. The land, located on Salisbury Plain, isn’t just farmland, it’s also a Ministry of Defence (MOD) training area, a protected conservation site, and home to some of the rarest grassland habitats in Europe. Balancing livestock management, military operations, and environmental stewardship has always been a challenge. But together with Nofence, James found a way to make it work.
Grazing without boundaries
Grazing cattle on a live- ring range presents risks that few farmers ever have to consider. Temporary electric fences were the only viable option in the past, but they were far from reliable. Wires were often broken by deer, leading to costly escapes and safety concerns. Moving cattle around the training schedule was a logistical headache, and setting up fences across the rugged chalk grassland took up valuable time and labour.
Farming an unusual landscape, Wiltshire farmer James Waight decided to try Nofence to overcome a number of challenges.
setting
up and patrolling fences.”
Instead of constantly chasing fence repairs, James says he and his team can now focus on herd planning, conservation e orts, and family life. The reduced need for vehicle patrols has also cut wear and tear on farm equipment, further driving down costs.
Conservation and fire prevention
Salisbury Plain is a haven for rare wildlife, including the marsh fritillary butter y, which depends on carefully grazed grasslands to thrive.
With Nofence, James can ne-tune his grazing strategy to support conservation e orts, creating corridors that allow delicate plant species to ourish without being smothered by dominant grasses.
“It’s so much more exible now. Before, there were areas we simply couldn’t graze because getting a fence up was too tricky. Now, we can adapt on the go.”
“Nofence has completely changed how we operate. Historically, we spent hours putting up and repairing electric fences. Now, I can adjust grazing areas remotely,” he adds.
Since adopting Nofence ve years ago, James has been able to manage his herd with far greater precision, keeping cattle safe while ensuring the land is grazed at the right times. The ability to track the herd in real-time has also been a gamechanger for livestock health and welfare.
More time, less labour
With fewer fences to install and patrol, James has drastically reduced the time spent on infrastructure maintenance. “We’ve saved half a labour unit because we no longer spend time
Grazing also plays a crucial role in wild re prevention. Dry grass is a major re risk, especially in areas where live ammunition is used. By strategically rotating cattle, James is actively reducing the fuel load, lowering the risk of uncontrolled res while maintaining the health of the landscape.
Decision paid o
James says he didn’t start using Nofence just for the novelty, he chose it because it truly solved a challenge he was facing. It eliminated the frustration of unreliable fencing, improved livestock safety, and gave him greater control over his land. Looking back, he feels con dent it was the right choice for him.
“The best thing we ever did. Our operation is more e cient, our cattle are safer, and we have
more control than ever before.”
For James, virtual fencing isn’t just about making life easier, it’s about making farming more e cient. And on Salisbury Plain, where every decision impacts both the military and the environment, that’s exactly what’s needed. FG
The ability to track the herd in real-time has also been a game-changer for livestock health and welfare.
Historically, James spent hours putting up and repairing electric fences. Now, he can adjust grazing areas remotely.
fence
Seventh generation farmer James Waight.
OPPORTUNITY FOR EAE SCREENING
Sheep farmers in England, Scotland and Wales can now ask their vet to test flocks for exposure to enzootic abortion.
MSD Animal Health UK Limited has opened the enzootic abortion (EAE) testing phase of its 2025 FlockCheck diagnostic scheme.
From 1st April 2025, sheep farmers in England, Scotland and Wales have the opportunity to ask their vet to test their ocks for exposure to EAE. The toxoplasmosis testing phase opened back in February. This popular subsidised diagnostic service helps farmers identify possible reasons for early lamb losses. It closes at the end of June 2025.
According to sheep farmers, ewe reproductive failure, neonatal lamb disease and mortality are the three biggest factors limiting better ock productivity – with toxoplasmosis and enzootic abortion continuing to be signi cant causes of these unwanted ock heath issues.
Consequently, GB sheep farmers who nd that more than 2% of their ock is barren or aborting this lambing season are being encouraged to contact their vet to take advantage of the FlockCheck diagnostic scheme.
“From our own 2024 ock health survey of 966 sheep units, we know that more than 30% of GB sheep ocks don’t know their barren ewe rate or are reporting a gure greater than 5% after lambing. This is particularly concerning,” said MSD Animal Health veterinary adviser Dr Kat Baxter-Smith.
GB sheep farmers can take advantage of the FlockCheck diagnostic scheme by asking their
vet to take blood samples from six to eight aborted, unvaccinated ewes, or from barren ewes or ones that have produced weakly lambs. Experience has shown that the results help vets and their farmer clients make more informed decisions about appropriate ock health measures, MSD says.
The three main infectious causes of abortion EAE are Chlamydia abortus, Toxoplasma gondii and Campylobacter spp. In an outbreak, up to 40% of ewes may either abort or produce weak, poorly viable lambs. The cost is variably quoted as £85 per aborted ewe, and has been estimated to cost the UK sheep industry as a whole between £11–48 million a year.
Annual FlockCheck blood test results consistently demonstrate that a signi cant proportion of aborted ewes tested have been exposed to either toxoplasmosis or EAE – and sometimes both. For example, 2024 results showed 80% of 382 sheep ocks had been exposed to toxoplasmosis and 26% to EAE. 74 ocks (19.4%) had been exposed to both pathogens. This is consistent with a recent APHA analysis showing that between 2002 and 2019, toxoplasmosis and EAE were the two most common diagnoses of sheep abortion.
Sheep farmers interested in taking advantage of this subsidised industry support from MSD Animal Health to help reduce the risk of lower productivity and pro tability, should contact their local practice as soon as possible. FG
Perfect for Optimum Growth Efficiency
• Increased availability in sulphur form with reduced volatilisation creates a more efficient nitrogen uptake spreadable over 36m.
•Balanced nitrogen release, with 5% ammoniacal nitrogen for immediate plant uptake and 35% urea nitrogen for a longer-lasting nutrient supply.
• YaraVera AMIPRO is YaraVera AMIDAS + Inhibitor*
ADVICE FOR TACKLING LAMENESS
Lameness can be a leading cause of culling, financial losses and compromised welfare, and prevalence is often underestimated, writes Douglas Scott, Westpoint Farm Vets.
A 2018 study of English and Welsh dairy herds found lameness had an average prevalence of 28.8% within herds, ranging from 5.4% of cows in some herds to 65.4% in the worst a ected herds. It’s been shown that keepers can underestimate the prevalence by 75%.
A good rst step is to engage third parties in mobility scoring to accurately identify lame animals. This service is commonly o ered by most vets/vet technicians and should ideally be done every 2–4 weeks.
Hoof trimming acts as a preventative, diagnostic and therapeutic intervention all at once, with preventative e ects lasting approximately 4–6 months. All animals should be presented to a foot trimmer on a six-monthly basis. Animals identi ed as lame during scoring should be seen to as soon as possible.
The most common lesions are solar bruising/ulceration, white line disease and digital dermatitis – this is not an exhaustive list, and all have di erent risk factors and treatment options, so speak to your hoof trimmer or vet for advice.
While the negative e ects of lameness can only be fully mitigated by prevention, treatment is inevitable. Some common themes are worth considering...
Any claw with a lesion or those reactive to hoof testers should receive therapeutic trimming. Blocks are also usually placed on the opposite claw, removing weight from the a ected claw. Pain relief is a must, with by far the most commonly used class being the NSAIDs. Licensed options in cattle vary slightly and it is worth discussing with your vet. Evidence shows NSAID use improves cure rates in claw horn lesions (with trimming) and reduces milk drop in cases of digital dermatitis.
Antibiotics are often overused in lameness and should be reserved only for infectious causes, for example digital dermatitis or foul in the foot. Depending on the severity of lesions, topical treatment may be su cient via antibiotic spray or injectable preparations may be required. It is no longer recommended that antibiotic foot baths are used for whole group treatments.
Beef cattle: Systemic challenges appear to be the most signi cant
hurdles in treatment of lameness in beef systems. Lack of experience and expertise make identi cation and decision making more challenging while limited handling and lack of infrastructure make treatment tougher.
Beef herds might get away with this, but this does not mean lameness is not a ecting the herd. Fortunately, the control strategies and treatment options outlined can
be implemented with some adjustments in most beef herds. If monthly mobility scoring is not feasible, getting help to do this when you can provides useful information and helps monitoring/ selection of cases for hoof trimming. FG
Ketofen®
Break the pain
NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Ketofen containing the active ketoprofen have a zero milk withhold and are licensed to treat the pain associated with lameness.
be given for 1 to 3 days
calving
A recent study4 concluded that in dairy cows, the addition of Ketofen 10% to protocols for the treatment of pain and lameness associated with digital dermatitis, could be beneficial for animal welfare and productivity.
decisions are for
Ketofen® 10% solution for injection for horses, cattle and pigs contains 100 mg ketoprofen per
Waterman-Patterson A.E. 2005. Role of ketoprofen in the modulation of hyperalgesia associated with lameness in dairy cattle. Vet. Record. 157: 729-733. • 4. Kasiora K, Anagnostopoulos A, Bedford C,Menka T, Barden M, Gri ths BE, et al. Evaluation of the use of ketoprofen for the treatment of digital dermatitis in dairy cattle: A randomised, positive controlled, clinical trial. Vet Rec. 2021;e977. https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.977
TOP TIPS FOR IMPROVING BEEF FERTILITY
Farm vet Hamish Marsden gives a run down on the key factors in beef fertility issues, and the rise of advanced breeding.
Doing a pre-breeding check on the bull is recommended, explains Hamish, of Clyde Vet Group, which is part of the VetPartners Group. This ‘bull MOT’ covers general health, body condition, mobility and semen analysis, using pass/fail criteria from the British Cattle Veterinary Association.
For the cow, factors impacting fertility include body condition,
which should be around 2.5–3, and trace elements, particularly copper, selenium and iodine. Testing can be done on animals and pasture if you’re unsure of the mineral or trace element status. Infectious disease or disease a ecting fertility is another factor, particularly BVD, so vaccination is recommended, and breeding animals and bulls brought onto the farm should be
quarantined for four weeks. Other relevant infectious diseases include leptospirosis and IBR, the latter of which can a ect fertility without clinical signs of IBR. Schmallenberg and BTV will also impact fertility.
While a nine-week calving period is standard for batch calving, many suckler herds are tightening this even further, to around 7.5 weeks. The key is good record keeping and management, Hamish continues, including getting cows scanned as early as possible. Those that were late calving or had di culty calving, and may have retained foetal membranes, are the high-risk animals. If kept they will need to be checked before going to the bull, but with a strong cull price it may be best to cull these animals, and this could pay for your replacements, he adds.
When it comes to record keeping, the more information the better so any calving or weaning problems, weaning weights versus cow weights, and scanning data, which helps
ensure you get the right vaccinations at the right time, should all be recorded.
Whilst there has been some doom and gloom around dispersals recently, Hamish says those farmers who are continuing are very forward thinking, and the practice is doing more and more advanced breeding such as AI and embryo work in beef cattle, which is optimising output. This is being strengthened by the beef price and Hamish expects this trend to continue.
Whilst it requires input from the farmer, those who do it are generally very pleased with the results, and there’s lots you can do with it, he continues. Di erent scenarios include those who AI whole suckler herds with Wagyu, or use sexed semen in the best breeding cows to produce heifers they can keep that are unrelated to their stock bull. There is so much data on the bulls on o er that the genetics are very predictable. One farm managed to bring the calving date forward by six weeks in the rst year of using AI, he adds. FG
How does heat stress impact fertility?
With heat stress having a significant impact on the fertility and health of lactating dairy cows, Andrew Errington, Dalton Engineering, provides some advice.
Heat stress signi cantly impacts the fertility and overall health of lactating dairy cows, a ecting the reproductive system weeks before ovulation by interfering with follicle development and function. In heat-stressed cows, hormone levels decrease, leading to a reduced expression of oestrus. This makes it more di cult to detect cows in heat.
Furthermore, inseminated cows that experience heat stress have lower conception rates, and early embryonic loss is more common. This is because embryos formed during this time
are less tolerant of heat, particularly during the critical days 0–7 of development. As a result, the number of days open (the period between calving and successful insemination) increases in heat-stressed cows.
Heat stress also reduces dry matter intake in dry cows, which can negatively a ect milk production in the subsequent lactation. Additionally, heat stress during pregnancy can have lasting e ects on the o spring.
Studies indicate that calves born to heatstressed mothers tend to have lower birthweights,
impaired colostrum absorption, and potentially weaker immune systems. These calves may also experience slower growth rates. Moreover, the milk production of daughters born to heat-stressed cows is negatively a ected for up to three lactations, and their productive lifespan is often shorter, which can impact the productivity of future generations as well.
To mitigate the negative e ects of heat stress on dairy cattle, it is essential to implement strategies that reduce heat exposure for both lactating and dry cows. Management practices should focus on improving ventilation, such as using fans to provide high-speed air to cool the cows.
Adjustments to housing can help minimise the severity of heat stress, especially in high-risk areas like collecting yards, where heat production and humidity are elevated. Ensuring that lying areas are comfortable and reducing standing times can also help alleviate heat stress. It is important to remember that dry cows, in addition to lactating cows, require attention to prevent the long-term reproductive and health e ects associated with heat stress. FG
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PIGS & POULTRY
Livestock Protect, from Livetec Systems, helps the poultry sector predict, prevent
and
respond to disease threats.
NEW DIGITAL PLATFORM TO TRANSFORM POULTRY DISEASE RESILIENCE
With avian in uenza (AI) continuing to disrupt poultry operations across the UK, the launch of Livestock Protect comes at a critical time, says Julian Sparrey, group technical director and co-founder of Livetec.
“HPAI continues to expose the urgent need for a more robust, 360-degree approach to biosecurity across the poultry sector,” he explains.
“Livestock Protect has been developed to ll that gap, giving producers the tools to manage risk in real-time – making faster, more informed decisions and improving operational e ciencies to help protect their ocks and businesses from disease threats.”
Transforming biosecurity
As a leading provider of emergency poultry depopulation services for noti able diseases, Livetec has used its extensive frontline experience, industry data, and welfare- rst mindset to help producers streamline operations and improve disease resilience.
Mr Sparrey explains the easy-to-use platform and accompanying mobile app is designed to reduce paperwork and simplify biosecurity management, while empowering all poultry keepers to make faster, data-led decisions to minimise the risk of outbreaks.
“Livestock Protect is available via a
subscription model, in three packages to suit di erent business needs, including a free apponly version that provides access to essential features,” he says.
“Among these features are real-time AI outbreak mapping – including wild birds – which gives producers immediate visibility of disease threats, and our biosecurity chatbot powered by Google Gemini – Paula – which provides instant access to expert advice when it’s needed most.”
Advanced features
Mr Sparrey explains the Premium and Enterprise packages o er additional functionality.
“Premium and Enterprise users will also get access to eBAS – our unique biosecurity assessment system that delivers weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations for each farm – as well as AccessProtect, which enables simple visitor logging for full traceability at all times.”
For Enterprise users, the platform includes practical emergency response tools, such as a depopulation calculator, live operations dashboard and access to national outbreak plans.
“These features can also be purchased as bolt-ons to the Free and Premium packages, giving producers the exibility to build a package that best suits their business needs and risk pro le,” Mr Sparrey adds.
Scalable tech
Built with scalability in mind, Livestock Protect is already being adopted by large-scale integrators and producers and is accessible across iOS, Android, and web platforms.
“While initially focused on the poultry
sector, we are actively working to extend the platform’s capabilities across other livestock sectors, including pigs, to support wider industry resilience,” Mr Sparrey concludes.
For more information and to watch a demo of the Livestock Protect platform, visit: https://www. livetecsystems.co.uk/livestock-protect-platform/
About Livetec
Founded in 2010, Livetec Systems is a leading livestock protection solutions provider dedicated to supporting UK producers with biosecurity and disease management.
With a wealth of expertise in the team, the company provides practical, e ective solutions to reduce disease risk, safeguard productivity, and maintain high animal welfare standards.
Livetec’s comprehensive approach combines consultancy, advanced biosecurity technology, on-farm equipment and a mobile disease-risk tracking app to help farmers protect their stock. Through close collaboration with academic, veterinary and industry professionals, the company says it drives innovation to equip farmers with solutions they need to navigate biosecurity threats with ease and contribute to a resilient and secure food system. FG
Key features:
The Livestock Protect platform brings together practical, data-driven tools designed to make biosecurity management easier, faster, and more e ective for poultry producers.
Core features include:
• AI outbreak mapping – providing real-time zone noti cations, wild bird surveillance, and historical outbreak data
• eBAS biosecurity assessment system – delivering weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations based on Livetec’s extensive experience
• AccessProtect – QR code-based visitor logging for full traceability
• Biosecurity chatbot ‘Paula’ – powered by Google Gemini, o ering instant biosecurity advice with a knowledge base curated by Livetec’s in-house experts
• Depopulation calculator and live operations dashboard – supporting emergency response planning
• National outbreak plans and emergency response tools – ensuring users are prepared to act quickly and e ectively.
Livetec co-founder Julian Sparrey.
Spreading machine saves money and improves bed quality
Research suggests a Spread-a-Bale machine increases e ciencies.
Pig producers seeking to signi cantly reduce their straw bedding costs and improve bed quality should consider introducing a straw spreading machine in preference to a turbine chopper, following ndings from a Harper Adams University study.
The entire bedding up operation took 50% less time to load and
spread one bale with a Spread-a-Bale machine compared with a turbine straw processor, while 75% less fuel usage was recorded. In addition, straw spread with the Spread-aBale machine remained 20% longer resulting in a deeper bed.
Furthermore, Spread-a-Bale users consistently report they save up
to 75% labour and 50% straw after switching from manual spreading, while they themselves remain safe outside the pen.
Spread-a-Bale’s newly launched ST (Side Throw) is particularly suited to producers with both indoor accommodation with narrow passageways or arcs. Designed for narrow entrances and passageways, it throws straw up to 9m to the right or left, as well as in front.
Essex-based John Bunting, who manages a 3,000-head weaner nisher unit, has seen the bene ts of the ST. “We’ve halved the time spent each day to just one hour bedding the pens with up to nine round bales since going from manual spreading to investing in the ST. In fact, it’s one of the few bits of kit on the farm we use every day, and it’s one we simply couldn’t do without,” he says.
John’s ST is tted to Spread-aBale’s Micro model which appeals to owners of 1t capacity loaders. The Micro ST combines a 695kg lightweight steel chassis and bracketing system and measures 1.735m wide. The machine spreads 5ft round straw bales or half a
rectangular bale and o ers a longitudinal spread pattern of 0.8m wide and up to 8m throw, with minimum dust.
“The machine perfectly ts on to our JCB403 manoeuvring down our 3m wide passageways. We are now not only able to save time and labour, but it is also enabling us to spread straw up to 5m and exactly where we want it, direct into each pen.
“Furthermore, the Micro ST is providing a more even spread of straw than we could achieve manually spreading, so it’s a more comfortable bed for the pigs. In turn, it’s eventually resulting in muck that’s more consistent, and easier to handle and spread.”
He adds: “We’ve mechanised straw spreading yet there’s no chopping or blowing; Spread-a-Bale retains the straw in virtually the same length as it was combined and baled, consequently dust is minimised together with health and welfare issues. It also o ers a safe working environment for me inside the sealed JCB cab instead of throwing straw down from above the pens.” FG
• One vertical rotor
• For buildings with narrow access doors and passageways from 2m wide
• Spreading to left, right and front
• No chopping, lowers dust levels,saves straw
• Spreads any bale in under one minute
• Self-loading, requires only one tractor / loader
• Improves efficiency, profitability and environment The ST (Side Throw) new head option for Micro, Mini, Midi, Midi XL and Maxi models
SPOTLIGHT ON: HEAT RECOVERY IN BROILER HOUSES
EcoCooling shares its practical solution for cutting energy costs and improving welfare.
As energy and gas costs continue to rise, heat recovery has become a hot topic in broiler house management. But not all heat exchangers are created equal. We spoke with EcoCooling founder Alan Beresford about the limitations of traditional systems and how the company’s new British-made ECHX unit is designed to meet the challenges of poultry farmers.
Heat exchangers are commonly installed to reduce energy or to meet planning permission requirements, but while recovering heat is relatively straightforward, saving money on total energy use is far more di cult.
Many heat exchangers rely on large fans and complex control systems that consume signi cant electricity, often enough to cancel out any savings from reduced gas use. “Electricity costs around four times as much per kWh as gas,” Alan notes. “So, unless the system is extremely e cient, you’re just shifting costs from one utility to another.”
Space and hygiene also pose challenges. Conventional heat exchangers are bulky and hard to install in the narrow areas between poultry sheds and installation on the gable ends is not always possible. Their delicate internal plates can be easily damaged by the high-pressure washers and foaming lances typically used for cleaning.
To address these issues, EcoCooling, based in East Anglia has developed the ECHX, a compact and durable heat recovery unit designed for poultry farms. Released in November, it o ers gas savings of up to 60% and a 5–6 year payback on capital investment.
“The total installed cost is about half that of the main competitors,” Alan says. “And because it’s supplied as a complete package, farmers with some building experience could even install it themselves.”
The all-stainless steel heat recovery unit measures just 2x2m, with a compact plinth design that ts between buildings. Its lightweight construction means there’s no need for expensive crane hire –farmers can position it using a standard telehandler. Cleaning is also simple. The ECHX is robust enough to be pressure washed using the same equipment used for sheds.
- HEAT RECOVERY UNIT
Additionally, improved air distribution enhances litter quality, which in turn reduces ammonia emissions and boosts overall bird health. Key features of the ECHX include:
• Variable speed EC fans for e cient, responsive air ow control
• Variable speed stirrer fans – essential for even house conditions and maximum heat recovery
• Flexible installation options – side or top supply/extract ducts, and side wall or gable end mounting.
• Multiple control options, including:
– Separate control for supply and extract
REDUCE GAS COSTS BY UP TO 60% STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION
– Manual or integrated into existing house systems
– Smart automation for optimised energy savings and reduced carbon footprint
• Custom colour coating.
For farmers looking to reduce costs without compromising performance or practicality, EcoCooling’s ECHX o ers a refreshing change to the heat recovery conversation. FG
ROI BETWEEN 5-6 YEARS
REDUCE
The partnership will see combined investment of around £61 million to deliver new pig welfare standards and improve the sector’s resilience.
Sainsbury’s and Cranswick sign 10-year partnership
Sainsbury’s and Cranswick have announced a new 10-year partnership that will see all Sainsbury’s British pork, sausages, premium bacon and gammon, and cooked meats supplied through the UK producer. This will be made possible by the British farmers working for Sainsbury’s and Cranswick under the Sainsbury’s Pork Producer Group.
The partnership will elevate welfare standards of the by Sainsbury’s British pork range beyond the industry recommended (Red Tractor pork standards – Pork standards –Red Tractor Licensees), while still ensuring great value for customers, Sainsbury’s said. Taste the Di erence pork will remain the same high-level RSPCA Assured standard that it has been for 17 years.
The move includes direct investment in exible farrowing accommodation, the area where
pigs are housed during the birthing process, which will provide extra space for the sows and piglets. The introduction of AI technology will also allow for 24/7 monitoring of the animals and inform improvements to welfare.
It’s estimated Sainsbury’s will invest £50 million to implement these new high standards by 2030, with an additional £11 million being invested by Cranswick to help build the new sheds and housing for the pigs.
Longer term contracts and more nancial stability will be provided for the 170 trusted farmers in the Sainsbury’s Pork Producer Group. This will give them the reassurance needed to invest in farms, factories and procedures, building resilience for the future.
Sainsbury’s and Cranswick aim to o er Taste the Di erence pork that meets net zero by 2029, a stretching ambition, and by Sainsbury’s fresh pork that meets net zero by 2030.
Working closely on environmentally sustainable practices, the new contract will allow for the continuation of current trials into the reduction of soya and a focus on more sustainable cereal feedstocks.
Rhian Bartlett, Sainsbury’s chief commercial o cer, said: “Over the next 10 years we, in partnership with Cranswick and the farmers in the Sainsbury’s Pork Producer Group, hope to better prepare ourselves for unforeseen knocks such as price shocks and climate concerns. There is an ever-evolving relationship between retailers, farmers, and processors but we hope this news serves as a good example of what is possible when people come together in the food system.”
chain approach delivering a robust and di erentiated consumer o er across British pork related categories including fresh joints and steaks, sausages, cooked meats and premium bacon and gammon. [...]
“This long-term contract will also give us the con dence to continue to invest in our farms, processing factories and people, to deliver the highest quality, technical standards and innovation to support Sainsbury’s in the provision of good food.” between retailers, farmers, and
Jim Brisby, Cranswick plc. chief commercial o cer, added: “The purpose of the new partnership is to provide a total supply
o cer, added: “The purpose
An attractive alternative to conventional chemicals
Manure is blended with a biomass to provide structure, improve stability, and feed microbials. The mixture is deposited on long, elevated platforms, and the process of aeration can begin. Over a fortnight, the mixture is dried, oxygenated and continually agitated by robotic cultivators in the plenum. The temperature target is around 65 degrees, sanitising the mixture of pathogens but protecting the microbes.
In manure, we have an incredibly valuable source of plant nutrient. The aim is to provide a consistent and highquality alternative to conventional chemicals, Newquip says. Its test site, transforming bird muck into pelleted manure, resembles a traditional poultry shed. Managing director Adam Dye says the concept is entirely scalable, with potential to aid existing farms by adding value to manure. Where raw material from local farms needs to be purchased to facilitate capacity, only manure from belts is accepted to minimise foreign objects and increase consistency. Biosecurity measures upon arrival include a large wheel wash and curtain spray system, with accompanying ltration and storage tanks. Vehicles then tip to a hopper, crossing over a weighbridge on the way in and out.
The result is a compost with around 80% organic dry matter. Further moisture is removed in the pelletising process, with a targeted 95% dry matter content, ready for storing and shipping.
The end goal is to create a new market for a product that can be used as a genuine chemical substitute in precision agriculture.
WANTED
PIG REARING AND FINISHING ACCOMMODATION
Indoor and outdoor accommodation wanted across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, East Anglia and the Midlands.
• ATTRACTIVE RETURNS
• GUARANTEED MONTHLY INCOME
• LONG-TERM CONTRACTS
Get in touch to find out more: farming@cranswick.co.uk or 01482 422037 You can also visit us at: woldfarms.co.uk whiterosefarms.co.uk or waylandfarms.co.uk
A ordable, high quality feed
ABN’s mission is to manufacture a ordable, high quality, feed solutions safely and sustainably for the British pig and poultry industries. By focusing on feed e ciency and exceptional performance to deliver customer pro tability, it strives to drive productivity, reduce the carbon footprint of the supply chain and support the industry’s future.
ABN’s knowledge is supported by a history of R&D investment, which continues to be essential to its o ering. By applying a partnership approach, it can provide excellence in terms of nutrition, feed formulation, and manufacture, to meet the varying needs of British pig and poultry producers.
The company o ers a complete range of compound products for the growing and breeding pig;
available in a variety of forms including meal, pellet, cake, and larger diameter rolls where required.
Following on from its latest trial work, it has revised its range of ABN Delta Nutrio Grow/Finish pig feed. ABN Delta Nutrio diets now contain a range of nutrient levels to o er customers the exibility to meet the needs of today’s genotype and housing systems. The new formulas allow the selection of alternate feeding programmes, suitable for two and three phase feeding, and provide cost e ective growth and optimum grading.
ABN’s team of experts are onhand to help customers achieve the very best value and optimal performance from its products. Get in touch directly or visit: www.abn.co.uk FG
Farropen delivers tangible results
The Farropen system isn’t just a concept; it’s a tried and tested solution that has delivered tangible results on the creators’ own breeding unit for over four years, as well as other units, the company says.
This design has consistently demonstrated its ability to enhance both welfare of the animals and stock people in real-world, practical applications. Farmers who adopted the Farropen early on have reported signi cant improvements in piglet weaning weights, sow weaning condition, and calmer, more contented sows, directly impacting their bottom line. “The success of the Farropen is mirrored in the positive feedback we receive on our wider range of equipment,” the company adds. “Our
misting systems have proven invaluable in mitigating heat stress across various farm setups, contributing to healthier and more productive animals.
“Similarly, our ad-lib feeders in farrowing houses have streamlined feeding management and supported optimal sow condition, as evidenced by years of practical on-farm use. Our robust creep troughs have stood the test of time, e ectively encouraging early feeding in piglets and contributing to smoother weaning.
“All our products are designed with practicality and longevity in mind, ensuring they integrate seamlessly into existing farm operations and deliver reliable performance both on our own farm and farms of customers,” Farropen concludes. FG
Could Rattlerow gilts be the key to success?
Rattlerow has been breeding replacement gilts for both indoor and outdoor production systems for generations, so the company says it understands full well the laundry list of requirements a successful breeding program selects for.
We ask a lot of our gilts, Rattlerow adds. We need them to be reliable and proli c breeders, with high fertility rates, excellent conception, and farrowing success. We ask them to farrow and wean more and more piglets so our units can be not only pro table but sustainable and environmentally conscious, and we ask them to do all of this whilst maintaining an appropriate body condition and developing leg strength for optimum longevity. We require them to be healthy and robust, and to perform like a top athlete – all while demonstrating a calm and amenable temperament. In summary, we ask a lot of our gilts! As the landscape of UK pig
production changes, and we anticipate the inevitable shift towards exible or adaptive farrowing systems, the need for animals to be ‘Easy2Manage’ in any system has never been greater.
Whether you run an indoor or outdoor pig farming operation, Rattlerow gilts thrive in a variety of
environments. Their adaptability makes them suitable for every production system, and could be your key to unlocking success in a exible farrowing system, Rattlerow reckons. Their robustness and exceptional mothering ability, coupled with a heroic capacity for producing vast amounts of
top-quality milk can greatly reduce the need for interventions in litter management, while their calm and docile temperament makes them a pleasure for sta to handle in any management system.
So don’t delay, make the switch to Rattlerow gilts today, the company concludes. FG
Every leaf counts
MERGENTO VT 9220
Clean forage without disintegration losses even with leafy crops such as clover or alfalfa
High performance and perfect crop transfer to the conveyor belt thanks to the controlled pick-up
Perfect crop flow along the pick-up thanks to the adjustable, damped crop swath roller with ba e curtain
Flexible swath placement: Centre swath - side swath merged left or right - two individual swathsflexibly adjustable swath width
www.poettinger.uk
British design REDUCES COST of forage production
Profitable Farming Company shares the benefits of its new HarvestPro product series, which is making waves across UK farms.
From a family-run Devon farm, Pro table Farming Company (PFC) has launched the British-made HarvestPro product series.
The HarvestPro series is a suite of smart, reliable and a ordable tools that includes moisture meters, automatic acid preservative applicators, and acid preservatives tailored for hay, straw, haylage, and silage. Whether you're running a high-output commercial baling operation or managing a diversi ed livestock enterprise, these tools are designed to optimise every stage of your baling process.
Unlike imported systems, which often come with high price tags and limited support, HarvestPro products are developed, tested, and manufactured here in the UK. That means faster service, better support, and solutions designed with the real needs of British farmers in mind, PFC reckons.
PFC’s moisture meters o er
“industry-leading accuracy, allowing you to bale at the ideal moment –protecting quality and minimising spoilage”. The automatic preservative applicators adjust application rates in real-time based on actual crop moisture content. This smart dosing not only prevents waste but ensures optimal preservation, allowing you to bale at higher moisture levels and extend your baling window. The result? Increased yields, reduced losses, and more pro table bales.
PFC’s specially formulated acid preservative works in tandem with HarvestPro applicators to inhibit mould, retain feed value, and preserve colour and nutrient quality. Whether you’re selling to the equine market or feeding dairy cows, higherquality forage means higher returns and healthier livestock. HarvestPro is the strongest forage preservative litre-to-litre and at least 12% cheaper per tonne treated compared to the
nearest competitor, PFC says. But perhaps most importantly, HarvestPro makes baling less stressful and more e cient. With automated, accurate tools doing the heavy lifting, you spend less time second-guessing and more time getting the job done right. And in a
market where every load counts, that edge can make all the di erence. For farmers who are tired of overpaying for imported systems, PFC reckons HarvestPro o ers a better solution – built by farmers, for farmers. Contact PFC directly to discuss. FG
MAXIMISE YOUR SLURRY WITH ULTIMATE PRECISION
BlackBird®: Spreading technology that achieves superior results You want things to run perfectly in the field? Looking for flow-optimised geometry, outstanding distribution accuracy, minimum contamination and much more? Then, the latest cutting-edge trailing-shoe system BlackBird® by Vogelsang is the answer. Giving you consistent results. Get in touch now for more information: sales.uk@vogelsang.info or 01270 216 600
VOGELSANG – LEADING IN TECHNOLOGY more?
vogelsang.info
Variable rate seed drilling and fertiliser application are just two of the packages available in ProCam’s new FieldSense service.
Self-propelled slurry applicator 35TH ANNIVERSARY
New Vervaet Hydro Trikes supplied during 2025 will feature commemorative decals.
This year the successful Vervaet Hydro Trike self-propelled slurry applicator celebrates its 35th anniversary. To mark the occasion, new machines supplied during 2025 feature special commemorative decals as well as an updated livery.
The Hydro Trike was initially developed on the continent in response to sudden demand following Dutch government legislation which made it mandatory to inject slurry. Extensive prototype testing during 1990 was followed by production in 1991.
The Hydro Trike concept matched high-output with low ground pressure, using three otation tyres to spread its weight evenly and provide a tight turning circle. It quickly became popular, and has now been the continental market-leader for well over two decades, with well over 1,000 made in total, says UK importer J Riley Beet Harvesters (UK) Ltd.
The Hydro Trike has been constantly updated since its introduction, and today’s range includes three-wheel and ve-wheel models with tank capacities of 16m3 and 20m3 respectively. Solid manure spreading bodies can also be tted.
Parts are held in stock for all machines going right back to the beginning, meaning older machines can still be backed-up. This is demonstrated by multiple older Hydro Trikes, each with nearly 30,000 hours on the clock, still in operation on the continent.
Although arguably too advanced for the UK market when rst developed, more recently sales have increased dramatically over here, and there is now a steadily growing healthy population. With J Riley Beet Harvesters (UK) Ltd able to draw on a large pool of quality used machines, as well as factory-overhauled examples, there is something available to suit all workloads and budgets.
Whilst the Hydro Trike suited some users, Vervaet responded to demand from the UK for a four-wheel machine by developing the Quad 550 in 2021. Another success story, the rst two machines o the production line were delivered to British customers in spring 2022 with many more following, and today the Quad is the most popular four-wheel self-propelled slurry
applicator in the UK, J Riley says.
The standard Quad has a 22m3 tank, 550hp engine, hydromechanical transmission and mechanical axles, but for maximum capacity there is also the option of the 40m2 Quad XL. New machines for 2025 are tted with the latest Claas X11 cab, as introduced recently on the Vervaet Q-616 beet harvester. FG
Turbofarmer 30.7
Compact, Manoeuvrable, Powerful
Measuring only 2m x 2m the TF30.7 is the ultimate compact telescopic handler. Despite its dimensions the TF30.7 packs a punch when it comes to performance, powered by a 100hp Deutz TCD 4-cylinder Stage V diesel engine this new model ofers almost 7 meters of lift height and a 3-ton
Impressive muck spreader range
Alongside its portfolio of slurry tankers and rear implements, Joskin also o ers a vast range of muck spreaders, narrow body and wide body, for all uses and farm sizes.
A narrow body spreader can be tted with large diameter tyres. The Siroko, which comes standard fully galvanised, is a small capacity (8–16m³) spreader for those wanting a simple, reliable machine for their own work.
The Tornado is the heavy-duty all-rounder which ensures thin, even spreading of all materials. Ranging from 11–24m³, it’s available as a single or twin axle which comes standard with hydraulic axle suspension and free steering axle.
The Ferti-Cap and Ferti-Space2
are the wide body models with a capacity from 9–35m³. With the wheels tted under the body, they ideal for scenarios involving lots of road work, Joskin says.
There’s an option to be tted with silage extensions. With the beater frame taken o , they can be used as a silage trailer.
The Tornado and Ferti-Space2 are also available in a Horizon version, i.e. with horizontal beaters for spreading lighter materials.
All Joskin spreaders can be tted with ow metre, Isobus controls, and weigh cells, to make spreading more e ective, accurate and easy. As for most of the Joskin equipment, the four spreader models are available as custom-built machines, as well as the Advantage series FG
Valuable addition to a farm
Released in 2023, the Fentech Agri TSG300S was designed to incorporate the 1,000-litre hopper featured on the company's mechanical arable drills and entered the range as a highcapacity version of the TSG-300.
Built on a strengthened frame with larger wheels to support the additional weight, this model provides the durability needed for both pasture and arable direct drilling situations, Fentech says. Its reliable mechanical sponge metering system is key, and has been proven over decades of use for its simplicity, accuracy, and ease of maintenance. This system is highly adaptable, managing seed mixes of varying sizes from clover to beans, and is paired with an in nitely variable gearbox for precise control over seeding rates.
The success of the TSG-300S paved the way for the TSG-300SP, which launched last year. Built on
the robust TSG-300S frame, this machine takes the proven design of the mechanical 3m grass drill and couples it with an 1,100-litre hopper, making it suitable for big bag lling. One of the standout features is its pneumatic metering system, supplied by Sulky.
The Sulky control system o ers the precision, accuracy, and versatility of electronic metering and is capable of seeding rates from 10–400kg/ha. Whether you're planting grass, clover, or cereals, the TSG-300SP o ers a combination of reliability, adaptability, and e ciency, Fentech concludes.
For further information visit www.fentechagri.com FG
Tackling problem weeds in grassland
E ective weed control in a sustainable management approach is key for improving grass yields, silage quality, keeping grazing stock healthy and prolonging pasture life. Weed infestations can easily cause 10–20% yield losses in grassland if left unchecked, explains Clayton Plant Protection.
Docks: Best controlled at the ‘rosette stage’ (up to 20cm tall or across), Clayton Docker, a powerful herbicide containing uroxypyr + triclopyr, controls broad-leaved and
curled docks in established grassland at 2.0-litres/ha.
Thistles: Appear at di erent times so timing can be key. Clayton Grazer, containing clopyralid + triclopyr, is a great option for spottreatment of thistles in established grassland (60ml product in 10 litres of water) using a hand-held sprayer.
Nettles: Clayton Flurry, containing uroxypyr, can be used in newly sown leys and established grassland at 2.0-litres/ha or for spot treatment (30ml in 10 litres of water). Nettles
are best controlled when young and actively growing at 15–25cm high. Once established, they are di cult to control by single treatment, so followup sprays may be required.
Common chickweed: Very rapid growth competes strongly with grass, leading to signi cant yield losses, especially when establishing new grass reseeds where it can quickly colonise bare soil areas. Clayton Flurry can be applied to control chickweed (up to 5cm in size) in newly sown leys at a 0.75-litres/ha rate. FG
GRASSLAND WEED CONTROL SCAN
PROVEN IN THE FIELD
“The strength anddesign of the SDS spreaders make thema crucialasset for our operations.”
The
Success of SDS
Spreaders
in Challenging
Conditions
Simon Williams, managing director of SW Hire, highlights the resilient build and contemporary features of Richard Western SDS machines, noting their efficient spread rotor and durable central auger. Emphasizing their suitability for various tasks, Simon underlines the minimal maintenance required for the SDS spreaders, making them an essential asset for the hire fleet.
SPREADER OFFERS HIGH QUALITY ALTERNATIVE
The new D model Delilah spreaders are suited to farmers seeking fine shredded material, min-till and long straw users.
The Richard Western Delilah spreader has been the longest vertical rear-discharge spreader in continuous production in the UK. It emerged during the early 1980s when Richard Western acquired Colman, and a prototype twin vertical rotor spreader was developed, which has subsequently been re ned over several years.
The new D models are available as the D10, D12, and D15 spreaders. They are suitable for clients seeking ne shredded material, hire eets looking for a reliable, low-maintenance machine, and contractors requiring a machine with high throughput and quality nish, as well as min-till farmers and long straw users needing a machine that tears and shreds the spread
throughput and quality material.
The two 800mm-diameter
shredded spread nish.
The aggressive rotor style tears the material out of the spreader, providing a “class-leading clear-out time”, Richard Western says.
oor conveyor on the market, Richard Western says. This design o ers a highly reliable oor, featuring a long lifespan and easy maintenance at its core.
The two 800mm-diameter Boron steel rotors, located within a 1,500mm-wide body, provide su cient overlap. The rotors are equipped with 30 Boron tips each to produce a nely
su cient overlap. The rotors
The full-width, strong box oating oor slats, running on G80calibrated 16mm oor chains, are driven by six-tooth bolt-together oor sprockets mounted on a 65mm shaft, which is driven by a 30-tooth spline gearbox. This is the most highly engineered spreader
The D series spreader features a post-less body, facilitating easy cleaning and preventing the buildup of premature rust formation. This range is priced to provide a quality alternative to the competition, Richard Western concludes. FG
Simon Williams
S.W. HIRE
Leading the way in forage and slurry equipment
Agri-Industry Solutions (AIS) strives to o er solutions that enhance e ciency, productivity, and sustainability for farmers and contractors.
Schuitemaker Rapide forage wagons: Supplied by AIS this range is designed to optimise forage collection and feeding. Wagons come equipped with the unique trailed pickup, ensuring seamless collection of forage with minimal loss, better contouring with reduced damage. Their compact design makes them highly manoeuvrable, even in tight farm spaces, whilst the pickup and rotor pathway gives superior load capacity, reducing trips, saving both time and fuel. Other key features include consistent chop length, double-edged quick change knives, rear steering axle and hydraulic suspension.
V model with rear discharge belt perfect for zero grazing. Meanwhile, the simple and reliable Feedo wagons have models to suit all herd and shed sizes and can be equipped with weighcells, and knives to handle bales.
Veenhuis slurry tankers: AIS says these o er the fastest ll times, superior pump protection, and unloading control. With hydraulic suspension and rear steer or extending axles, they have the highest capacity with the smallest footprint.
Schuitemaker also o ers a
Veenhuis o ers precision disk and cultivating injectors, in varying models ensuring optimal nutrient utilisation and minimal environmental impact whatever the size of operation.
Contact AIS directly to learn more or to bene t from a UK demo machine. FG
Know your field, GROW YOUR YIELD
Soil sampling is a critical practice in agriculture and arable farming, providing essential insights into soil health and fertility. By analysing soil samples, farmers can make informed decisions about crop management, nutrient application, and environmental sustainability.
ACS Farm Image says it’s at the forefront of agricultural innovation, o ering comprehensive soil sampling and analysis services. With over 25 years of experience, the company utilises advanced technologies like GPS and precision soil sampling to provide farmers with detailed insights into their soil's nutrient pro le.
This data-driven approach allows for targeted interventions, ensuring that crops receive the exact nutrients they need to thrive. The result is not
only healthier crops and boosted yields but also a more e cient use of resources, reducing waste, costs and environmental impact.
SoilSmart is ACS Farm Image’s free to access platform; this detailed tool is designed for customers to view their soil analysis results, create variable rate application les, access satellite data and upload yield maps. SoilSmart is a valuable resource for farmers looking to optimise their soil management practices and achieve sustainable farming goals, ACS adds.
Soil sampling is an indispensable tool for modern agriculture, and ACS Farm Image says it is committed to precision, sustainability, and farmer success to ensure they can meet the demands of a growing population while maintaining environmental
New o erings for 2025
Since its launch at the LAMMA show in January, strong interest in the Compact Greenmaster 600 has led to a lift in sales. It features an electronic metering system, Seed Pro ‘High’, which launched at Agritechnica and allows a “seamless operating system for all tractors with or without the GPS connection”. The machine is now in stock in the UK, with all of the features of the standard Greenmaster operating platform, which is proven in all areas of grassland management and overseeding in plough-based and reseeding.
The Compact machine features the Mediana roller and is in a 33/38cm combination for weight reduction of the fully mounted machine.
Meanwhile, liquid manure
management is at the forefront of Wox Agri Services and with ever increasing demand for drag hose equipment, the fully integrated Walrus pump units remain popular, with customers wanting to increase output and performance across the season.
The range of pump units from Wox are aimed at increased reliability and safety during use to optimise performance, particularly with the ever-increasing size of lagoons and installations faced by contractors and farmers.
With the increased capacity of pump stations, the demand for bigger and stronger reelers continues and the range of Scorpion and Tempest units deliver, with the ability to easily carry 4, 5, 6, and 7.25in, Wox concludes. FG
24m vertical-folding dribble bar
Tramspread has a new verticalfolding 24m dribble bar in development. The prototype, currently in ungalvanised form, was completed last summer and has been extensively tested by sister company Tramspread Contracting during the autumn, winter and spring, successfully carrying out hundreds of acres of application work throughout East Anglia.
More information will be released about the new 24m machine in due course.
The new Tramspread SIL radio repeater extends the working range and coverage of SIL Vision radio control systems for engine driven pump units. During extensive testing by Tramspread, carried out throughout the UK and Europe over three months, the repeater unit more
ofers
and the Contractor Trailer.
All ofer many benefts when compared to PTO-driven pumps, including a
saving in labour and machinery as well as typically using 35% less
than doubled the e ective range of the system in every scenario. Even placing the repeater next to the pump set increased range.
The repeater is a self-contained unit which can be positioned in any convenient location. Charging is via mains or 12V power, with the necessary leads included.
Another new addition to the Tramspread line-up is the well-known and high-quality Metal360 range of hose couplers and menders, with popular sizes in stock and available now. The slurry hose o ering has also been expanded with the full Mandals range, which is o ered alongside the Gollmer & Hummel products that Tramspread has marketed for 20 years and is the largest supplier of in the UK and Europe. FG
Innovative slurry injector unveiled
Faced with increasing environmental challenges and the need for more e cient and sustainable agriculture, Samson Agro unveils the Samson IDS. This innovative slurry injector optimises fertilisation while minimising ecological impact, rede ning application standards for modern farmers, the company says.
Slurry injection is recognised as one of the most e ective methods for maximising nutrient use while reducing environmental impact. By placing slurry beneath the soil surface, the Samson IDS protects fertilisers from wind and sunlight, reducing evaporation losses. Unlike surface spreading methods, this approach ensures better nutrient absorption, promoting uniform crop growth. Moreover, it decreases ammonia volatilisation by up to 75%,
Compact four-rotor rake launches
Pöttinger is extending its range of four-rotor rakes with the new TOP VT 12540 C, which features an impressively compact design.
contributing to a more sustainable agricultural practice, Samson Agro explains.
The Samson IDS is designed for precision, performance, and durability. With an 8m working width, a lightweight chassis, and an advanced hydraulic system, it guarantees consistent slurry placement even on uneven terrain. Each pair of discs operates independently, ensuring uniform application. Its 3-point rotating chassis allows curved injection, preventing excess load on discs and reducing crop damage. By combining technological innovation with environmental responsibility, the Samson IDS provides an e cient and sustainable solution for modern farms. Discover the future of slurry application with Samson Agro, the company concludes. FG
The angled tines on the TOP VT 12540 C lift the crop slightly to ensure it is swept cleanly without dragging forage across the ground. The rotor chassis can be supplied with four or ve wheels, depending on requirements. Together with the Multitast jockey wheel system, perfect adaptation to every bump in the ground is guaranteed, Pöttinger reckons.
Because the rotor is mounted in gimbals, the rake o ers plenty of freedom of movement to ensure three-dimensional ground tracking. The front rotor units feature hydraulic weight alleviation and the rear units
have mechanical suspension. This ensures uniform distribution of ground pressure.
The working width can be adjusted hydraulically whenever needed. Depending on which machine will be used to collect the harvest, the rear rotors can be shifted into in three positions without the need for tools, setting the swath width between 1.20–2.00m.
The TOP VT 12540 C is supplied with the Basicline preselect system as standard. One double-acting spool valve controls the lifting and folding of all the rotors. Using the Basic Control terminal, the front two rotors can be lifted and lowered together or separately. To adjust the working width, the two front rotors are operated together using a separate spool valve. FG
SAMSON CULTIVATES THE STANDARD
Pichon expands slurry tanker range
The SV series is speci cally designed to meet the varied requirements of agricultural professionals, combining robustness, e ciency, and respect for the environment, Pichon says. With these new additions, Pichon’s SV series now includes 10 models with capacities ranging from 6,600–21,100 litres, ensuring a suitable solution for every farm size and application. Each tanker in the SV range stands out due to its adaptability and innovative design, the manufacturer continues. Available in both single and double-axle con gurations, these tankers come standardequipped to evolve according to changing farm needs. Built with a fully galvanised structure, the tankers ensure “exceptional durability and minimal maintenance”.
www.pichonindustries.com
The integrated Vacuum technology creates a di erence in atmospheric pressure between the inside of the tank and ambient air, enabling e cient lling and emptying, thus signi cantly reducing maintenance costs. Additionally, innovative spreading systems optimise the application of organic fertilisers, ensuring uniform distribution of e uents.
The small capacity models, such as the SV6 and SV8R, are particularly suited to small and medium-sized farms. With respective capacities of 6,600 and 8,500 litres, these slurry tankers are distinguished by their compact size, making them perfect for tight environments. Their integrated chassis lowers the center of gravity, o ering optimal stability even on slopes. FG
SV slurry tankers: from 6 to 20 m3
MK muck spreaders: from 10 to 24 m3
B-MIX slurry mixers: from 5 to 10,5 m Application implements and controllers
New screen option for spreaders
A new Isobus touchscreen is now an option across the full range of Bunning manure spreaders, o ering users faster processing speeds, variable rate application, and creating as applied maps after spreading.
Slurry management solutions
Ireland-based Grass Technology o ers an innovative and durable range of tankers and application systems. Designed to improve e ciency and meet environmental regulations, the company says its products are an excellent choice for British farmers looking to maximise nutrient utilisation on grassland.
Its slurry tankers, available in capacities from 1,750–6,000 gallons, are built for longevity and performance. Featuring recessed commercial axles, large brakes, a sprung drawbar, and a 13,500-litre vacuum pump, these tankers ensure optimal slurry handling.
Farmers can choose between painted or galvanised nishes, with additional options such as ow meters and hydraulic steering for enhanced manoeuvrability. Grass Technology also o ers dribble bars and trailing shoe systems, crucial
for low-emission slurry application. These systems, equipped with the Bomech Alrena precision macerator, ensure uniform slurry distribution while reducing nitrogen losses.
Understanding the importance of reliability, Grass Technology backs its products with a dedicated after-sales service, ensuring prompt maintenance, expert advice, and readily available spare parts. Financing solutions through the FundEquip scheme provide a ordable purchase options for UK farmers.
Martin Fox, UK sales manager, comments: “At Grass Technology, we strive to o er innovative, reliable slurry solutions that help grassland farmers boost e ciency and pro tability while staying compliant with regulations. We build all our tankers to our customers’ needs so you only pay for what you need!” FG
The 7in Topcon iD1 touchscreen replaces the ISOcan screen as the smallest control unit for Bunning spreaders. Bene ts of the iD1 screen include the powerful Horizon ISO operating software, producing clearer graphics and delivering faster processing speeds than the ISOcan system.
Variable rate application of manures in accordance with prescription maps is also possible. Operators can monitor eld requirements and generate as applied maps following applications, which can be helpful for compliance and job recording. The screen operates Topcon GPS separate to the tractor, while the iD1 is compatible with other machines for versatility across farming operations.
Ben Johnson, UK and
IRE sales manager, says the addition provides more options for recording work outputs. “Isobus control is an option on all our spreaders, so o ering users improved interfaces that work seamlessly, is essential. Greater exibility, improved job recording accuracy and variable rate application are essential, and this option allows users to select the correct touchscreen to suit their requirements.”
The iD1 touchscreen is available alongside the larger 12in Topcon XD+ touchscreen and both are compatible with the full range of Bunning Horizontal Beater and Disc (HBD) and Twin Vertical Auger (TVA) spreaders, from 6–40t. FG
Slurry Tankers
Efficient Slurry Management Solutions
Transform grassland management
Grasslands are the backbone of sustainable livestock farming, but invasive weeds like dock pose a persistent challenge. These resilient plants reduce pasture quality, compete for nutrients, and lower forage yields, impacting both productivity and pro tability for farmers.
Ecorobotix says it recognised this issue early on and developed an innovative, ultra-precise solution. Its AI-driven ARA precision sprayer has already treated over 55,000 dockinfested hectares across Europe, a region that became its rst market and the foundation of its success.
Conventional weeding methods require signi cant time and e ort but ARA precisely targets each dock, even those as small as 5cm. This not only reduces costs for farmers but also supports European sustainability goals, enhancing both
the e ciency and environmental impact of grassland management.
As Ecorobotix continues expanding its reach, its mission remains clear: Empower farmers with more sustainable solutions to combat invasive weeds. Its success in Europe proves that precision agriculture is no longer just a concept, it’s a revolution in the making.
“You’ve worked hard to build your farm. Now, let us help you optimise it for generations to come. Every weed controlled with ARA is a step towards a more prosperous, sustainable future for your land, your livestock, and your livelihood,” the company says.
“The world is changing, and so is farming. Don’t wait. Together, we can ensure that the land you tend today remains viable for tomorrow.” FG
New trailing shoe applicators
The Vogelsang BlackBird has expanded with two new model types. The BlackBird Single has been designed for narrower working widths and the BlackBird Light o ers operators a wide but lightweight trailing shoe applicator.
The BlackBird Single is available in widths of 7.5, 9 and 12m, and has a centrally installed distributor from Vogelsang’s Exacut series of macerators. The Light is available in 12 and 15m working widths and is 20% lighter than the current BlackBird Pro model. The 15m model weighs in at just 1,400kg.
The key bene t of both applicators is the ability to retro t easily to almost any tanker,
Vogelsang explains. The smaller, lighter models are easier to t to older tankers which will make trailing shoe technology more appealing to smaller farms.
All BlackBird models are equipped with Vogelsang’s owoptimised PrecisionFlow nozzle. This enables liquid manure to be placed precisely, narrowly and close to the roots at a row spacing of 25cm. The optional DoubleFlow nozzle double runner halves this to 12.5cm.
The BlackBird series can also be equipped with NightShift linkage lighting for controlled liquid manure spreading at night. A 3D collision guard on the end arm provides additional protection for the trailing shoe linkage. FG
Increased crop vigour Effective catch up treatment and easier harvest Due to reduced phytotoxic crop impact in onion fields, we would expect yield benefits of at least 10-15%.
Agronomist & Farm Support Consultant
ecorobotix.com/crops/carrots/
Larger capacity Vredo Agri Seeder
The latest range of Vredo Agri Seeders features an increased hopper capacity for the overseeder range, distributed through Campey Agriculture.
This enhancement has expanded its application on farms due to its capability to rejuvenate grassland and sow diverse crop mixes in line with farm payment requirements, Campey Agriculture explains.
The Vredo 329 Agri now o ers a standard 1,050-litre hopper capacity, meeting the criteria for direct drill grants. Additionally, other Vredo models such as the Vredo Agri 229 can be equipped with this increased hopper capacity, or it can be retro tted if needed.
Vredo’s range of Agri Seeders are recognised for their notable 96% germination rates, with the Crop Drill System (CDS) enabling the Vredo to plant arable crops directly into the soil, the distributor says.
The unit maintains its established features for grassland overseeding (7.5cm), which allows it to overseed both grass and arable land.
Another important tool for managing grassland, especially when combined with muck and slurry distribution, is the Evers front harrows.
These harrows activate the soil, break up and disperse lumps of slurry and muck, and encourage new grass growth, e ectively providing a grassland weeding, levelling, and harrowing solution in a single pass.
For more information or a demonstration, contact Campey Agriculture directly. FG
Trustworthy, Efective, Reliable, High Work Rate, Agricultural Machinery
We’re ofcial distributors of leading industry manufacturers
Tackling compaction key
As weather patterns become increasingly challenging and unpredictable, it’s more important than ever to address compaction and build resilience in the soil, explains Aerworx. Opening up the soil structure, allowing it to become more porous and friable means water capture can increase during wet periods and be retained to help grass growth during drier spells.
Soil biology and chemistry improve as a result which reduces the need for and cost of fertiliser applications. This can in turn bring a range of improvements including tackling waterlogging, run o and poaching, reducing veterinary issues and also improving turnout time, and ultimately yields.
When used in the right conditions, the Aerworx large drum and blade aerator causes a slot and shatter e ect on the soil down to 30cm, using the kinetic energy of forward speed and weight. Soil in ltration rates, yields and soil scores showed signi cant improvement in recent trials. Minimal surface disturbance is also achieved, the manufacturer says.
Aerworx o ers a range of aerators, including the AS330 which performs a 3:1 pass, aerating, over-seeding and harrowing. The recently launched Aerworx Viper series is a direct double disc seed drill that complements the company’s no-till approach to restoring and maintaining soil health. FG
Grassland weeding harrow, levelling and harrowing in one pass plus it can also be used in combination with an overseeder.
Tried and tested technology, grass seed is delivered precisely with 2 sharp discs that cut a V-shaped slit in the ground.
The Imants spaders achieve a higher effciency and a higher yield per acre with less passes for all soil types.
Maximising e ciency and forage
As the peak grassland season approaches, farm owners across the UK are looking for ways to maximise fresh forage utilisation. Grass Technology says its innovative range of Zero Grazers is leading the charge, o ering an e cient and coste ective way to deliver high-quality grass directly to livestock.
“Zero grazing is proving a gamechanger for UK farmers,” says UK sales manager Martin Fox. “Our machines allow farmers to increase milk yields, improve animal health, and make the most of their available grassland.
With rising input costs, maximising homegrown forage has never been more critical.”
Grass Technology’s range includes compact models suited for smaller farms and high-capacity machines designed for larger dairy and beef enterprises. Built for durability and e ciency, these Zero Grazers feature robust cutting systems, high-speed unloading, and user-friendly controls, the company reckons.
“Our machines are designed with farmers in mind,” continues Martin. “They’re built for tough UK
Einbock Grassland Harrows, Grassland Seeders and Seeder boxes (MD, STI, PRO) available Ex-Stock.
Einbock Weeders and Inter-Row Hoes (with or without camera guidance) available to order.
Call 01553-828083 or 07966-417720 for more information.
conditions, ensuring reliability and minimal downtime during peak season. Whether you’re looking to extend your grazing season or reduce reliance on bought-in feed, our Zero Grazers are a smart investment.”
With increasing pressure to improve sustainability and farm
pro tability, Grass Technology’s Zero Grazers provide an innovative solution that delivers fresh forage precisely when it’s needed. For those looking to enhance their feeding system this season, Grass Technology says the Zero Grazer could be the key to unlocking greater e ciency and productivity. FG
Zero Grazers
PRE-HARVEST PREPARATION
Located in the village of Tollesbury, on the Essex coast, the 820m2 building will be home to the entire range of Plug&Cool products, as well as a production workshop and testing facility. Since its inception at the beginning of 2017, the Plug&Cool brand has gone from strength to strength, and therefore, the need to expand the production and storage facilities has increased.
A history of fan-building
For over 30 years, Gibbons Engineering says it has manufactured the UK's most energy-e cient grain cooling fans, supplying them to the re-sale market. These fans are now produced and tested at Plug&Cool before being shipped directly to customers across the UK, whilst adhering to the ISO9001, ISO45001 and ISO14001 standards that Gibbons Engineering Group has been accredited with for many years.
When the Plug&Cool brand was created in 2017, the development of a new housing facility seemed necessary to drive the company forward and cement its place as the UK’s leading supplier of grain conditioning products, Gibbons Engineering explains.
The new facility
The new Plug&Cool building will house the entire range of products, from Fans and Pedestals to Aeration Spears and Multi-Zone Control Panels. There will be ample space for stock, but also enough space for the production team to continue working on large fan orders throughout the year.
farm services, including the supply of pumps, motors, and gearboxes, which will now be operating from the new Plug&Cool building.
There will be three LGV spaces available, making it easier for deliveries from the Plug&Cool warehouse. As part of Plug&Cool’s commitment to a greener future, solar panels have been installed on the roof to power operations, making the building energy self-su cient. The installation of EV charge points and solar panels demonstrates Plug&Cool’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and building a greener future. Sta and customers who have already made the switch to an electric vehicle will bene t from these charging stations.
Expanding product range
Since launching Plug&Cool Outdoor last year, demand for space has increased. Many farmers up and down the country have already adopted under oor cooling, and orders are already being taken for new grain stores.
The complete Plug&Cool Outdoor kit includes a 1m capped pedestal, a perforated steel base, a steel marker and a 2.2kW Plug&Cool Outdoor Fan. The pedestal is made from twin-walled polymer, making them extremely durable compared with other metal alternatives. The pedestal also comes with the popular pedestal adaptor with a grain cap, enabling farmers to switch to standard indoor grain cooling if necessary.
manufactured from durable plastic. And most importantly, the Plug&Cool 2.2kW Grain Fan has an additional rain canopy tted to the motor. The rain canopy prevents rainwater from entering the motor and a ecting the performance of the bearings. The outdoor fan can withstand the toughest weather conditions, so there’s less chance of any problems.
Venturing into Europe
The construction of a new home for Plug&Cool outlines its continuous improvement and growth within the agricultural market. The new facility will streamline agricultural operations and help to expand the business not just in the UK, but also in the European market.
To grow further in Europe, Plug&Cool will be exhibiting at the 2025 Agritechnica show in Hanover, Germany, alongside its main European distributer. With over 2,800 exhibitors and an expected 450,000 attendees, the event promises huge networking opportunities with both potential customers and future partners of the Plug&Cool brand.
Agritechnica also attracts visitors and exhibitors not just from Europe, but from all over the world, so you could see the signature orange Plug&Cool
fans in countries as far as South Africa and New Zealand.
Plug&Cool managing director Matthew Gibbons commented: “We couldn’t be more excited about nearing the completion of the new warehouse and production facility. The streamlining of our operations will allow us to continue to o er our products and services to farmers in the UK without increased costs. We’ve always worked hard to o er the best grain conditioning products to our customers, and with our industry knowledge and excellent customer service, we believe we are in the best position to go even further into Europe and the rest of the world.” FG
Established for over 55 years, the Gibbons Electric Motor has powered the Plug&Cool aluminium grain cooling fans since day one. Gibbons and Plug&Cool have always supported farmers with additional
Variable rate seed drilling and fertiliser application are just two of the packages available in ProCam’s new FieldSense service.
The Plug&Cool Outdoor system is built with farmers in mind and new features have been added to make life simple. The thick and sturdy steel base plate can retro t to most under oor grain systems, so farmers can easily make the switch. The pedestals are built to last as they are
Zetor
PLANNING AHEAD TO MAXIMISE HARVEST EFFICIENCY
As harvest season approaches, farmers face the challenge of ensuring they have the right resources in place to maximise productivity.
CC Agricultural Engineering is a trusted partner for agricultural businesses, o ering specialised services to support farmers during this crucial period.
With expertise in agricultural engineering and on farm site service available, CC Agricultural Engineering provides essential solutions to keep farms operating smoothly and e ciently.
Comprehensive agricultural services
CC Agricultural Engineering o ers a range of services designed to assist farmers in managing their workloads e ectively. Their primary services include:
• Agricultural contracting – The company o ers a variety of machines on a contract hire basis. Its skilled team and modern equipment help farmers optimise productivity during peak seasons
that essential equipment remains operational when it is needed most
• Technical support – Its team of agricultural experts can o er valuable insights into best machinery for use to maximise yield and e ciency.
Deep agricultural expertise
The sta at CC Agricultural Engineering have many years of experience in the agricultural industry, and the company says it has built a strong reputation for reliability and expertise in after sales, and sales support.
• Farm equipment maintenance and repair –Downtime during harvest can be costly.
CC Agricultural Engineering provides prompt machinery servicing and repairs, ensuring
The company understands the unique challenges faced by farmers and provides tailored solutions that address the speci c needs of each farm.
Its team consists of skilled professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality services that contribute to a successful harvest.
golf courses, commenting that the team get involved wherever they are needed.
Their knowledge of the industry, combined with a hands-on approach, ensures that farmers receive the best possible support throughout the year, particularly during critical times like the harvest season, CC Agricultural Engineering says.
Plan ahead for a smooth harvest
Given the high demand for agricultural labour and machinery services during peak seasons, it is crucial for farmers to plan ahead and secure their requirements early. CC Agricultural Engineering encourages farmers to get in touch as soon as possible to discuss their needs and schedule the necessary support.
CC Agricultural Engineering has worked with a wide range of farming businesses, from small family-run farms to large-scale agricultural enterprises, through to market gardens, equestrian centres,
By partnering with CC Agricultural Engineering, the company says farmers can reduce stress, minimise downtime, and ensure a more e cient and productive harvest.
Don’t wait until the last minute – contact CC Agricultural Engineering today to secure the services and support your farm needs for a successful harvest season. FG
GET STORES READY FOR GRAIN
As harvest approaches, it is essential to prepare the store ready for use. Evans & Pearce explains more.
Crop deterioration in store is avoidable but it remains a common issue in the UK. Protracted wet harvests increase the chances of spoilage in store; this is further exacerbated by shrinking budgets for adequate equipment and operating times. Storage pests and moulds thrive in poorly ventilated, warm crops, quickly taking hold if attention to detail is lacking.
Use the AHDB Grain Storage Guide to help you prepare and operate your store. Consider the following:
• Inspect and repair building for potential water ingress
• Rodent proof as much as is possible
• Test and maintain ventilation equipment
• Monitor insect levels pre- and post-harvest using traps.
With 50 years’ experience in grain storage using pedestal ventilation, Evans & Pearce says it has identi ed
several reoccurring themes, as outlined below.
Get the fans inspected before combines roll; damaged cables, impellers, motors, plugs and capacitors are all easy to x and should not be a reason why a fan sits idle when it could be cooling. Equipment suppliers have the capacity pre-harvest for these repairs and will welcome them sooner than later, and probably at a better price. A distressed purchase is often a more expensive one.
Test electrics and ensure fan running directions for three-phase units are correct. Centrifugal fans, commonly used for pedestal ventilation, always move air in the same direction regardless of direction of impeller rotation. However, if the impeller is rotating in the wrong direction ow will be hugely compromised. We frequently visit underperforming ventilation systems, only to nd the fans have been wired incorrectly and are
running backwards.
Ensure all pedestal components are present and correct. Do all the components t together or are some new extension pipes and couplers needed? Metal pedestals, in particular, are prone to damage and may need a few dents ironed out prior to use.
Do you have enough fans for
the anticipated tonnage? Air ow is crucial, and the additional cost of an extra fan is negligible given the tonnes it will ventilate over its lifetime.
When so much money is spent on getting the crop into the store and so many obstacles overcome, don’t lose out on the one part which is truly in your control. FG
•Perfect for new build stores
•Suits overhead conveyor filling
•Pedestals secured in position
•Fans outside - easy to position and move
•Warm air expelled out of store
Grain storage success hinges on timely and adequate delivery of air ow.
A LONG WAY TOGETHER
WHEREVER YOU ARE, BKT IS WITH YOU
No matter how challenging your needs, BKT is always with you, offering a wide range of tyres tailored to every need in agriculture: from work in the open field to the orchards and vineyards, from high power tractors to trailers for transport.
Reliable and safe, sturdy and durable, capable of combining traction and reduced soil compaction, comfort and high performance.
BKT: always with You, to maximise productivity
• Detects the presence of overhead high voltage power lines up to 100m
• Adjustable sensitivity • 11-32v DC Operation
• Audio Visual in cab warning
• Plug & Play – No user calibration required
• Auto resetting mute feature
• Auxiliary Switching Function. Can be used to switch external devices on alarm
• Proven technology. Can be used on almost any type of vehicle
UK SOLE DISTRIBUTOR
really are the safest way to protect & keep your straw dry. As popular as ever with both new & existing customers, the system will help in saving 0 – 15% of waste on an outside stack. Keeping your costs low & your workers safe!
The Parkland Agro-Master range of three and ve bale Accumulators are perfectly tailored to get your harvest done. They o er the solution of controlled-tra c, reducing compaction, and halving the time it takes to collect your bales. We have both new and used Parkland Bale Accumulators in stock now
PRE-HARVEST PEST PREVENTION
Action should be taken against insect pests well before grain intake. Lodi o ers its advice.
Insects can be present, even in seemingly empty stores as grain or grain dust from previous harvests provides an amenable food source. Action should be taken well before grain intake to ensure an insect-free environment. Cleaning alone will not guarantee eliminating risks of all pests in empty stores, nor will solely using a pesticide treatment. This is why an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy is always a must. Prepare for harvest with a program of prevention and control strategies to limit pest damage by the most economical means possible and with the least environmental impact.
• Equipment maintenance – Start by cleaning,
checking and servicing key equipment, as well as reviewing electrical and mechanical safety measures.
• Repair structural problems – Buildings should be free from last year’s grain and debris. Look out for structural defects in store walls or any evidence of groundwater ingress. Make the store weatherproof, repair any leaks in the roof, broken gutters or gaps which insects can enter via. Eliminate dead spaces that trap residues or cause problems with cleaning.
• Pest proof – Seal holes, cracks and crevices. Vermin proof against nuisance bird and rodent entry, stores should be continually monitored
for signs of pest activity. When it comes to rodenticides extra care must be taken to avoid harming non-target animals/species. Always follow the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticides Use (CRRU) code (www. thinkwildlife.org/about-crru-uk).
• Store hygiene – All walls, oors and horizontal surfaces of storage facilities must be cleaned and where appropriate washed. Keep it clean, sweeping, disinfecting or even using an industrial vacuum for maximum results. Phobi Smoke 90C+ prepares, treats and clears empty stores ready for harvest. Dispose of rubbish well away from the store and inspect for waste residues. Seal all feedstu s and similar commodities away for the main store in sealed, inaccessible containers.
• Monitoring and treatment – Monitor store for insects by placing insect traps in corners and at wall/ oor junctions at 4-5m intervals and check them regularly. If live insects are found or if there is a history of insect infestation treat the structure of the building with K-Obiol EC25 and protect incoming grain with K-Obiol ULV. No grain should be stored until the surfaces are treated and completely dry. Lodi claims its trusted products have unrivalled, 100% e cacy in controlling the most common stored grain insect pests, maintinaing that K-Obiol and Phobi will provide the highest level of protection for your valuable stored crops.
To nd out more visit www.lodi-uk.com/ agricultural-products/stored-grain-protection FG
For Stored Grain
Pest Prevention
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Protecting soils with TYRE TECHNOLOGY
With tractors and trailers soon to be out in force, choosing the right tyre can make all the di erence.
Distributed by Bush Tyres, Ascenso VDR tyres are packed full of VF technology. To cause the least amount of damage to soil, the tyres on tractors and other machinery need to operate at low in ation pressures. VF technology allows low tyre pressures which creates a larger footprint to spread the load, greatly reducing soil compaction. The pressure of VF tyres can be lowered by 40% compared to non-VF tyres, even when
carrying the same load. This spreads the weight of the vehicle over a larger surface area and reduces soil compaction.
While the width may be very similar, the footprint is extended front to rear (in an oval shape), within the committed trackway of the tyre, therefore achieving a larger footprint.
VF technology also gives the ability to carry 40% more load than a non-VF tyre at the same
pressure. This means you can travel at the same speed and same pressure as a non-VF tyre but with 40% more load.
Additionally, VF technology o ers time and fuel savings. The more exible construction of the tyre makes it possible to transition from eld to road and vice versa without adjusting the pressure.
As well as choosing the correct tyres and in ating them correctly to operate at low ground pressure, for tractor tyres to perform e ciently in wet conditions the tyres must have good self-cleaning properties. While other tyre manufacturers do o er self-cleaning properties, Ascenso says the unique and innovative design of its mud breaker and the dual mud breaker technology ensures even better self-cleaning and maximum traction. During the process of movement, vertical cleats on the lugs behave like a lever to push the mud away and create an air channel to break the vacuum which helps with the tyres’ self-cleaning characteristics.
Many of the Ascenso tyres feature this unique mud breaker technology including the TDR 650 and the XLR 880.
The TDR 650 and XLR 880 also have a greater lug overlap which provides a safe and comfortable ride, even at high speeds.
Both tyres, as well as all Ascenso farm radial tyres, come with a seven-year warranty – one of the longest tyre warranties in the industry. FG
Remapping solves issues
Avon Tuning HD (ATHD) says its network of agricultural remapping agents has solved persistent reduced power issues a ecting some Massey Ferguson tractors at low operating speeds.
The engineers, along with the software team at ATHD, have a detailed understanding of how engines and ECUs are setup to deliver the tractor’s indicated power. It’s well-known that tractors leave the factory conservatively set for operation across the world. However, it can be a limiting factor for users working on speci c jobs.
Gareth Jones, director at ATHD, explains: “The issue was common when mowing heavy, rst cut grass crops, where tractor forward speed would be slow and the transmission in a low gear. MF is
a well-liked tractor and the MF 6S models should handle this no problem.”
After further research into the power issues, the more apparent it became that a lower third power curve was dictating and limited how much power was available.
Gareth comments: “Increasing top end power to try and solve this problem would make little to no di erence. Instead, we’ve changed the engine parameters to allow boosted power to be available on key tasks such as mowing. This knowledge and detailed understanding are reasons why being part of a larger network of agents is invaluable. It also allows us to diagnose problems quickly and adjust remaps to suit requirements.” FG
Getting ready for the HARVEST PUSH
The Ceres Barn-Stormer Grain Pusher o ers an e cient and reliable method for controlling your cereal storage, Ceres reckons.
Stormer superb weight ratio.
The 2.5m wide blade is shaped to propel your materials “e ortlessly”; its smooth design without grain traps provides clean operation to avoid the risk of cross-contamination, both inside and outside your buildings. The blade is tted with a longlasting, hard-wearing rubber-nylon replaceable wear strip which glides e ciently over wooden, vented and polished or tamped concrete oors with ease.
The large, centrally-mounted tube is not only light and robust, it also increases visibility and manoeuvrability round doorways, ducts, vents and beams. Su ciently braced from the blade and the headstock, this gives the Barn-
The Barn-Stormer is available in a large variety of lengths, from 3.5–22m, and built to order to suit your telehandler or loading shovel, whatever bracket con guration you may have. All models of the Barn-Stormer are also available as an expandable version (the X Range), which allows the length of the implement to be extended by the addition of extra sections of tube, thus increasing the versatility and longevity.
The Ceres team can advise on the optimum length of grain pusher for you, to increase the speed and e ciency of this task, so that with practice, large trailer loads can be elevated in two or three pushes, with less shunting backwards and forwards, saving time during the busiest season. FG
Be vigilant near overhead power lines
As the farming calendar enters the harvest season, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is urging the farming community to be vigilant near overhead power lines.
Building on its ‘Look out, Look up’ safety messaging and through engagement with farming communities, this year’s campaign focuses on the impact of farming incidents involving the electricity infrastructure and the e ect it can have on whole families, as well as
the individual farmer. SSEN o ers the following tips and advice:
• If your farm machinery hits a power line, please stay in the cab if safe, call 105 and wait for help. When machinery is in contact with an overhead line, anyone who touches both the machinery and the ground can be electrocuted. Stay in the machinery and lower raised parts in contact with the line or drive the machinery out of the line if safe to do so
• If you need to get out, to call for
help or because of re, don’t climb out in the usual way – jump out as far as possible, without touching the line or the machinery, and don’t touch any part of the machinery when on the ground
• Call 105 and ask SSEN to disconnect the supply. Even if the line appears dead, don’t touch it as automatic switching may reconnect the power. For further information and advice please visit www.ssen.co.uk/farmsafety FG
IF YOUR VEHICLE TOUCHES A POWER LINE:
• IF SAFE, STAY IN THE CAB
• CALL 105
• WAIT FOR HELP
Before you head out on the farm, check for overhead power lines. LOOK OUT. LOOK UP. Learn more at ssen.co.uk/farmsafety
Save on your grain drying costs
British manufacturer Perry of Oakley sugggests two options to help you save on grain drying costs.
The rst suggestion is to upgrade your dryer control panel and add automatic dryer moisture monitoring to your existing dryer. This reduces your fuel consumption and sta costs while achieving the optimum moisture content of your grain to ensure the best value per tonne. It accomplishes it by taking grain samples as the grain enters and exits the dryer (without any loss of the grain).
This prevents the quite large nancial losses associated with over-drying grain such as decrease in weight, extra fuel usage, labour and electricity. This means big savings can be achieved. The updated panel means the dryer can be left to run while your sta are doing other jobs around the plant. The bigger the dryer and bigger the tonnage the more the savings increase. It can be retro tted to any make of continuous
ow grain dryer, not just Perry ones. The second option is to add hot air recirculation when buying a new dryer. This reduces dryer fuel consumption by up to 24% due to the grain dryer fuel savings from the reduction in the amount of fuel the dryer consumes to heat the air to dry the grain, Perry says.
Contact Perrys for your handling, storage, drying and cleaning requirements and receive a free, no obligation quotation. FG
Grain storage and handling
Steel framed buildings
Groundworks
All types of concrete
Turnkey projects
JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd have been supporting farmers with their building requirements since 1993 and have a wealth of expertise when it comes to the requirements of today’s agri business. JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd can provide grain stores complete with the most up to date grain handling equipment, silos, dryers, and straw barns. We also provide a maintenance service to all properties and farm buildings.
JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd provides a complete design and build service and will even take care of the planning application for you. We will be pleased to hear from you and offer a friendly reliable service. To discuss your requirements telephone 01379 678459.
Tyre disposal sustainable solution
For farmers who rely on a range of vehicles and machinery, dealing with the disposal of worn-out tyres and tracks can be a challenge. Envirotyre UK Ltd, based in Lincolnshire, provides an invaluable service to the agricultural community by o ering a sustainable and hassle-free solution for tyre/track collection and recycling.
With over two decades of experience, Envirotyre specialises in the collection of tyres and tracks from all types of agricultural vehicles, from tractors to trailers and combine harvesters. Its eet of specialised vehicles ensures a quick and e cient service, tailored to the needs of large-scale farms and rural businesses. Whether it’s
a one-o collection or ongoing bulk pick-up, Envirotyre provides exible solutions that enable farmers to concentrate on farming.
Envirotyre reckons what makes it stand out is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The company operates under full Environment Agency permits, ensuring that every tyre/track is disposed of and recycled in compliance with the latest regulations. This means that farmers can rest assured their waste is being handled responsibly, keeping their operations green and compliant with legal requirements.
For more information, or to book a collection, please visit www.envirotyre.com FG
Planning rules are changing
According to J H Vaudrey & Son, planning rules are changing the way we look at agricultural buildings.
Recent uncertainty in agriculture, alongside the general economy, has seen a change in trends for agricultural buildings. The company says it has found many customers are looking to capitalise on the permitted development rights available, particularly now that the size of building allowed has been increased to 1,500m2.
This, says J H Vaudrey & Son, has allowed it to create multi-purpose con gurations, with impressive economies of scale, commenting that many
customers are using this approach to recon gure their farmyards to release older buildings for other uses and diversi cation, providing additional income streams for their businesses.
As well as providing new buildings, the team has helped many customers renovate their old buildings, removing old asbestos roofs and upgrading in most instances with insulated cladding. J H Vaudrey & Son o ers turnkey packages allowing it to take the project from the start to the end with its in-house team. If you are looking at a new agricultural building or renovating your old buildings, please get in touch with J H Vaudrey & Son directly. FG
Makita’s latest high torque impact wrench additions include the brushless 40VMax XGT TW010G Impact Wrench that provides an excellent combination of heavyduty power and manoeuvrability – o ering 4,000Nm of nut busting torque and up to 3,1500Nm of fasting torque.
The TW010G Impact Wrench is equipped with a long reach, extended anvil making this model the ultimate solution for deep-seated bolts and con ned areas – where standard
Latest wrench additions
wrenches fall short. Built with high-durability construction and innovative vibration suppression, it incorporates full-speed mode which minimises trigger travel to reach maximum speed instantly, while the four-stage power selection allows users to tailor rpm and torque to the demands of any job.
Suitable for use with standard bolts ranging from M27 up to M45, and with high strength bolts from M20 up to M33, the TW010G features a LED ring light that provides superior 360 degree illumination to reduce socket shadow and o er exceptional visibility. It also features a 360 degree D-handle engineered with toolless installation, allowing for the side handle to be positioned quickly and easily. There is also a tool hanger ring included for support, allowing the user to hang the tool on rigging when needed.
For working in in tight spaces, a short anvil version – the TW009G Impact Wrench is due to join the line up in the summer.
For more information visit www. makitauk.com FG
Keep on top of maintenance
Machinery used in farming endures tough conditions throughout the year, making regular maintenance essential to prolong its lifespan and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns. A crucial aspect of pre-harvest preparation is inspecting machinery for signs of wear and tear, particularly the condition of chain. Chains play a vital role in agricultural machinery and their reliability is key to ensuring smooth operation during peak seasons.
Donghua o ers a premium range of high-performance chains designed for the agriculture sector. Engineered to withstand the most demanding applications, their agricultural chain features super high breaking loads, making them a durable and reliable choice for British farming.
• Heavy super power chain – The HSP Chain delivers exceptional performance with ultimate tensile strength up to 50% higher than standard DIN chains. Manufactured using iso-thermal treatments that expose the metal to extreme temperatures, this process signi cantly
enhances durability.
• Mark V chain – Built in Donghua’s UK workshop, Mark V agricultural chain is zinc-coated for enhanced durability. This anti-corrosive, waterproof chain outperforms standard agricultural chains in longevity and resilience. Available in various sizes, it provides a cost-e ective solution for British farmers.
• Pintle chain – Donghua’s Pintle chain features an open barrel design to minimise material build-up, reducing the risk of blockages, corrosion and seizure. This ensures optimal performance in heavy duty farming applications. Find out more at www.donghua. co.uk/agriculture-chain/ FG
Precision Soil Sampling
Accurately measure your soil pH, health, organic matter and nutrient indexes. Soil sampling provides accurate and reliable measurements of soil health and fertility enabling the targeted and e cient use of fertilisers and lime.
Meets the minimum requirement for soil sampling Includes standard analysis (P,K,Mg,pH) and OM(LOI) Includes standard analysis (P,K,Mg,pH) and OM(LOI)
In depth look at field nutrient availability variations. Includes standard analysis (P,K,Mg,pH) per grid and 1 OM(LOI) sample per field
Accepted RB209 standard sampling suite Includes standard analysis (P,K,Mg,pH) and 1 OM(LOI) sample per field Bespoke sampling packages also available
All results available and stored through our interactive online portal, SoilSmart. Please contact us for prices or to discuss any additional analysis requirements.
Bronze Package (sample area 4Ha to 10Ha)
Gold Package (1Ha grid sampling)
Silver Package (sample area up to 4Ha)
Maximise harvest output
Combine Fabs Ltd says it specialises in giving your combine harvester the edge it needs – o ering expert refurbishment of used parts and precision manufacturing of brand-new components. With years of engineering experience, the company is trusted by farmers and contractors across the UK to deliver performance, durability, and value. Its heavy-duty concaves are the star of the show – engineered to outperform standard concaves in both e ciency and longevity. Designed to handle higher throughput and reduce grain loss, Combine Fabs’s concaves improve threshing performance and reduce downtime during peak harvest. Whether you're working with cereals, oilseed rape, or pulses, its heavy-duty solutions are tailored to
meet your machine’s demands and maximise output.
Not only does Combine Fabs refurbish worn combine parts to extend lifespan and reduce replacement costs, it also manufactures high-quality new parts that meet or exceed OEM speci cations. Every component is built with precision and tested for toughness in real farm conditions. From a sieve refurbishment or a complete header rebuild to a full set of skids or a concave, get in touch directly to nd out how Combine Fabs can help your combine run stronger for longer. FG
Tyre supply and fitting service
Halfords Commercial Fleet Services (HCFS) says it is ready to assist farmers and growers this spring with all the latest tyres available. The company’s agship depot in Fakenham, Norfolk is bursting with product and its AG team have all the right manufacturer contacts to be able to supply your needs both precisely and quickly, the company reckons. HCFS o ers UK wide coverage through its three established tyre dealer brands: Lodge Tyre, McConechys and Universal Tyres.
HCFS’s expertise in agricultural rubber products covers all low ground pressure tyres for reduced soil compaction, row crop, otation, combine, harvester, cultivator and implement tyres. The company says its purchasing power means you bene t from a great price and exceptional aftercare from your preferred tyre brand.
Other services on o er include:
• Breakdown cover 365 days a year
• Workplace and roadside tyre replacement
• Full eet management packages available
• Real world performance data for most manufacturers’ tyres
• Fixed cost, budget or PAYG
contracts
• Electronic worksheets including photographic records and eet inspections
• Mobile commercial wheel alignment.
The company operates from over 100 centres nationwide with over 500 service vehicles, all tted with the latest electric compressor systems. For more information visit https:// halfordscfs.co.uk FG
for safety
The Trakjak, supplied by WM Agri, was designed as a safer way to jack up and support the rear of a tractor, using the tractor’s rear linkage.
Youngs Farm in Aylsham was one of the rst adopters around 10 years ago. George Youngs said the build quality is excellent and there have been no issues with it –it’s saved them time and improved safety.
Jim Scarrat, of EW Porter & Sons in Norfolk, purchased a Trakjak three years ago. With several tractors on the farm, tyre changes are a regular job and Jim describes the Trakjak as “a godsend”. Workers feel more con dent and the job can be completed 45 minutes quicker. Plus, it’s durable – Jim says it’s as good now as when it was new.
Other products soon to become available from WM Agri include the TireGrabber. Designed by a farmer, it means the task of changing large
tyres is no longer a mammoth team e ort but a simple job for one person, taking less than ve minutes.
Additionally, Noovall GPS-Safe helps to prevent GPS thefts as it is mounted to the tractor and means unnecessary noise and use of power tools would be required to remove the GPS. It does not a ect GPS signal. It also protects insurance premiums, saves farmers’ time and reduces the risk of falling whilst mounting and dismounting GPS devices. FG
cooling pedestals, fans and CropCool Control, crop/hay/timber moisture meters, temperature probes, crop sampling kits, insect traps etc., to meet Red Tractor needs.
The company says its expertise is in crop storage, and monitoring and measuring, as well as grazing management and soil health (compaction, pH, EC, temperature and moisture).
With 28 years of experience supplying and recommending products, Agricultural Supply Services work with four di erent moisture meter manufacturers (Wile/Unimeter, Sinar, DickeyJohn and Perton) to provide the complete range from £335–4,000, to suit farms of all types and sizes.
Farmers can also inspect its
Charles Goldingham explained: “Having a farm myself, customers have come to trust our advice, as we will always try to recommend items that are going to suit farmers’ particular circumstances best. That’s our way of doing business.
“Also for grassland farmers practising rotational grazing, we have recently re-launched our Bluetooth Platemeter, G1000 Neo, with latest software.”
The company also o ers kit complying with the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund, including the ‘Soil Health Monitor Package’ (farmers could be checking their soils themselves more), ‘Platemeters’ (growing more grass), ‘weather stations’ and ‘crop storage monitoring’ kit. FG
Agricultural Supply Services
UK Suppliers (full individual advice) for PolyCool Pedestals plus fans and control
Regenerative farming is essential for achieving high crop yields while preserving soil health and minimising disturbance. JJ Metcalfe and Son says it’s at the forefront of this movement with its groundbreaking NG LT system. This advanced system e ortlessly glides through the soil, cutting and lifting without smearing or causing compaction. Designed for e ciency, it is easy to pull, and its parts maintain their sharpness over time. Made from tough tungsten carbide, the cutting edge not only extends the equipment's lifespan but also retains its shape, ensuring optimal performance, the company explains.
Every component within the NG LT range is built for quick replacement in the eld, featuring a bolt-on leg system and replaceable shins. This
eliminates the risk of dragging dull parts through the soil, which can result in smearing. The tungsten leading edge actively enhances the longevity of the wearing metal, becoming sharper with every use and delivering precise cuts through the soil.
The NG LT range stands out for its strategic combination of the most advantageous features of the NG system and the reduced wing angle of the CS150 system. This legally protected low-draught, lowdisturbance approach e ectively mitigates compaction from baling operations and manure spreading while using the least amount of fuel.
JJ Metcalfe and Son says it’s rede ning regenerative farming – this is the future of sustainable agriculture.
For more information contact JJ Metcalfe and Son directly. FG
Flexible solutions for machinery
Irelands Farm Machinery, Lincolnshire, provides exible solutions for agricultural operations of all sizes, throughout the county and beyond.
“As dealers, we understand machinery and appreciate that hire is an important option for farmers who need access to specialised equipment without necessarily committing to full ownership. We know what our customers want and can always advise on the best solution to their speci c needs,” says group hire manager, Stuart Gosling.
From humble beginnings, the business has grown organically, and through acquisition. The large eet includes John Deere, JCB and Kubota tractors (including Fastracs), ranging from 130–250hp, telehandlers and Stewart trailers, complemented by a range of tillage, grass, vegetable and amenity
equipment.
All equipment is expertly maintained by a team of experienced mechanics at three depots in Carrington and Sutterton near Boston and Market Rasen, who can respond to any breakdowns quickly and e ciently across the region.
Stuart adds: “We’re proud to have customers who return year-on-year, including one who has been using our equipment for 30 years.”
Stuart adds: “We’re proud to exible terms – hire week, or even a
The company o ers exible terms – hire for the season, the week, or even a day – whatever works best for the customer. All machinery is serviced and ready to go now, ensuring optimal performance when it’s needed most. Whether you’re looking to increase your eet for harvest, or have a short-term increase in workload requiring more machinery, contact Irelands directly or visit: www. irelandsgroup.co.uk FG
JJ METCALFE & SON LTD
Stuart Gosling, hire manager.
Prepare for peak performance
As the pre-harvest rush approaches, make sure your machinery is ready to tackle the toughest tasks with Rico Europe – a leading UK supplier of lter service kits, lubricants, and ltration solutions for agricultural machinery.
Finding lters and lubricants for your machinery has never been easier, the company says, with its website – www.ricoeurope. com – o ers all your ltration and lubrication needs. Its visitors and customers across the globe use the powerful search tools to source the perfect parts:
• Cross reference tool – Instantly nd equivalent OE and manufacturer part numbers
• Part nder – Search lters by application for construction and agricultural equipment
• Oil nder – Quickly locate the right lubricants for your machinery. From tractors
to combine harvesters, your equipment works hard when it matters most, and downtime simply isn’t an option. Rico Europe says its high-quality lters and service kits are designed to keep your engines running smoother for longer, giving you the con dence to power through even the most demanding harvest.
With an expert team sourcing premium-quality products that meet OEM speci cations, rapid UK delivery and “unbeatable support”, the company says it makes staying prepared e ortless. FG
Reliable on-site mycotoxin testing
Say goodbye to complicated testing processes, the AgraStrip Pro Watex test system makes mycotoxin detection quick, simple, and accurate, says Romer Labs. Designed for farmers and millers, it allows for the on-site quanti cation of mycotoxins in grains and other commodities with minimal e ort.
With its intuitive work ow and walk-away operation, this system can independently and simultaneously test up to four samples in less than 10 minutes. The four-minute assay time is supported by the AgraVision Pro reader, which controls timing, temperature, and ow, ensuring
precise and reliable results every time – even in tough conditions. Dust and dirt? No problem, the company adds.
The water-based extraction and dilution process is easy to use and avoids hazardous solvents, ensuring safety for both you and the environment. With the Romer Labs Data Manager, you can easily store and organise your data or transfer it to a PC as needed.
Interested in seeing the solution in action? Book a free demo through the Romer Labs website - https://bit. ly/4cmn5GW – or by contacting one of the company’s experts directly. FG
Drainage demand still strong
“Investment in land drainage has provided our farm business with greater control and certainty around yield expectations amidst a challenging economic climate.” This observation was recently made by a farmer from Bedfordshire who has invested in a number of drainage schemes with William Morfoot Ltd.
Managing director at Morfoots, Tim Sisson, comments: “We are typically adding a 2–2.5t/ ha yield increase after we install our schemes. With tight margins within crop production, this is a signi cant help to improving the commercial performance of arable crops. Many growers are now asking themselves, can we a ord
not to invest in drainage when considering the increase in costs elsewhere in agriculture?”
Investing in drainage in a dry time allows farms to reap the rewards when the weather turns. As well as delivering signi cantly higher yields though enhanced soil structures, land drainage also improves timeliness for key arable operations.
William Morfoot Ltd o ers a comprehensive scheme design and installation service for new land drainage schemes. It also provides ditch restoration and water course management services and operates across the whole of the UK. For more information, visit www.williammorfoot.co.uk FG
Klug of Deben Agronomy, an independent potato specialist overseeing crops across East Anglia. Approximately 95% of the potato elds James advises are located in East Su olk, designated for the pre-pack market, where tolerance for wireworm damage is extremely low. Since the withdrawal of Mocap, wireworms have become his number one concern.
WIREWORMS: A major threat to potato production
With many e ective soil insecticides now banned and remaining options o ering limited e cacy, growers face increasing challenges in managing these pests.
Wireworms (Agriotes spp.), the larvae of click beetles from the Elateridae family, pose a signi cant risk to potato cultivation. These slender, cylindrical larvae feed on underground plant parts, including potato tubers, creating tunnels and lesions that compromise quality and marketability. Infestations can lead to reduced yields, increased susceptibility to other pests and diseases, and severe economic losses for farmers.
Recognising wireworm infestations
Several key indicators signal wireworm activity in potato elds. Damaged tubers often exhibit irregular or shallow holes, along with tunnels and feeding marks. In the early growth stages, wilting or stunted plant development may indicate root damage. Monitoring adult click beetles, which lay eggs in the soil, helps predict infestations and provides insights into the species present and their life cycle. Digging soil samples to check for wireworm larvae – slender, cylindrical, and typically yellow to brown – is the primary method for con rming an infestation.
E ective control
with beneficial nematodes
Entomopathogenic nematodes, commonly known as bene cial nematodes, are microscopic roundworms that naturally parasitise insect pests, playing a crucial role in biological control. Research has demonstrated that Koppert’s Casea (Steinernema carpocapsae) form an e ective biocontrol strategy against wireworms in irrigated potato elds. When applied to the soil, these nematodes actively seek out wireworm larvae, infecting them with symbiotic bacteria that cause death within days. Trials have shown that integrating bene cial nematodes into pest management programs can reduce tuber damage by up to 30%, leading to higher yields and increased revenue. Highly adaptable, these nematodes tolerate
both hot and cold conditions and are available in large, agriculture-ready formats with a soluble biodegradable formulation – o ering a sustainable and practical solution for wireworm control.
Application techniques and timing
For maximum e cacy, nematodes are applied to irrigated potato elds through soil drenching or standard agricultural irrigation and spraying systems, ensuring thorough coverage of the root zone where wireworm larvae are most active. Timing is critical – nematodes are most e ective against young larvae, making early spring or late summer applications ideal, as these periods coincide with peak wireworm activity. A split-dose strategy can be used to provide continuous protection throughout the risk period.
Bene cial nematodes o er a superior alternative to traditional pesticides for both organic and conventional growers. They integrate seamlessly into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, are compatible with most pesticides, and pose no risk to humans, animals, or plants. Koppert’s biological solutions allow growers to e ectively control wireworms while maintaining sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
Field trials and collaboration
To validate the e ectiveness of nematodes in real-world conditions, Koppert and Dr Richard Binks – Koppert’s market development and technical consultant – have collaborated with agronomy experts and grower groups, including James
With conventional nematicides proving ine ective, James and his colleagues explored alternative solutions and identi ed Koppert’s nematodes through the Vegetable Consultants Association (VCA). In 2024, fully replicated trials were conducted on a Su olk sandy loam site, where wireworm populations had been con rmed through bait trapping.
This approach aimed to maximise impact, as wireworms at di erent life stages remain active throughout the season. Applying nematodes in higher water volumes and ensuring soil moisture were also critical factors, with applications timed just before rainfall or irrigation.
Promising results and future considerations
Although wireworm pressure was slightly lower than expected based on trapping data, untreated plots still showed 5% tuber damage – a level high enough to cause economic losses in a commercial crop.
“We found that three treatments of Casea at 2Bn/ha reduced that 5% to 0%, and this was a statistically signi cant result, representing a considerable return on investment if it were in a commercial situation,” James notes.
While he acknowledges this is just one year’s experience, he is already considering nematode use on a commercial scale due to the lack of alternative options.
“The results exceeded my expectations and are very promising. We now have data to support this approach, and although further research is needed, I would consider using nematodes in elds with high wireworm pressure,” he adds. FG
Nematode in insect
Nematodes enter insect
Nematodesrelease bacteria, host dies
Nematodes emerging from the insect
Bene cial nematodes can help to manage pests.
With average outside temperatures rising, a cooling system is top-of-mind for potato farmers.
Make your cooling system FUTURE-PROOF
Specialist Omnivent discusses the importance of potato cooling systems to prevent rotting, disease development, sprouting, and weight loss.
Challenges in cooling
A well-designed cooling system is vital for maintaining potato quality. However, the challenge lies in doing so sustainably and energy-e ciently. Additionally, the extreme weather patterns and harvest variations we’ve seen in recent years signi cantly impact the storage process. It’s expected that such weather extremes will increase in the future. So, how can you ensure your cooling system is built to withstand future challenges?
To determine the appropriate capacity and setup for a cooling system, it’s essential to answer these three questions:
1. What cooling capacity do your potatoes require?
Consider when and for how long you intend to store your potatoes, how quickly the temperature needs to decrease and the conditions under which you want to store the produce for a speci c period. This requires performing a cooling load calculation. Depending on the variety, the cooling capacity ranges from between 60–140W per tonne of stored produce.
2. Do your storage cells need to be cooled simultaneously, and when?
Create a cooling schedule to determine which rooms will be cooled simultaneously. For example, if you have three rooms with a total cooling capacity of 100kW, but plan to use only two rooms at full capacity simultaneously, the simultaneity factor would
be 2/3, or 67%. In this case, your cooling system would only need to provide 200kW of cooling.
3. At what temperatures will the cooling take place?
Establish the maximum outdoor temperature and the minimum room temperature. With this information, you can determine the condensation temperature and the evaporation temperature of your system. The condensation temperature is typically 10°C higher than the maximum outdoor temperature, and the evaporation temperature is typically 7°C lower than the minimum room temperature. These values are crucial for determining your system’s e ective cooling capacity.
Choose a cooling system that meets your needs
Two types of cooling systems are commonly used for storing potatoes. A direct cooling system (often referred to as DX or Direct Expansion) and an indirect cooling system.
In a direct system, a refrigerant evaporates in the cooling coils of the system, cooling the air in the storage rooms. The compressor compresses the gas, raising its temperature, and this hot gas then condenses in the condenser, releasing heat to the outside air.
An indirect system can also be used, where the cold air is not directly released into the
storage rooms, but instead circulates through an intermediary system that uses a mixture of water and glycol.
A direct cooling system is typically more cost-e ective in terms of initial investment and generally consumes less energy compared to an indirect system. On the other hand, an indirect cooling system allows for more precise control of the temperature in the coolers in each storage room individually. This helps tailor the cooling process more precisely to your produce and minimises the risk of dehydration.
Use of e cient natural refrigerants
Cooling with natural refrigerants is more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives and can help reduce energy consumption. Depending on your situation, natural refrigerants can reduce energy consumption by around 15–30%.
The most used natural refrigerants are propane, CO2 and ammonia. Generally, propane is ideal for smaller cooling capacities up to around 75kW, CO2 for capacities up to around 300kW and ammonia is best for larger capacities.
The e ciency of natural refrigerants depends on factors such as crop type, outdoor temperature, the storage room temperature and whether a direct or indirect cooling system is used. Consulting with an expert is recommended for guidance.
Drying produce regardless of weather
If you are drying potatoes, onions or carrots using outside air, you’re dependent on the outdoor temperature and humidity. However, by expanding your cooling system to incorporate condensation drying, you can dry your produce independently of external weather conditions.
Condensation drying works by simultaneously cooling and heating the storage area. The produce and air inside the storage room is dehumidi ed. Normally, the heat generated during cooling is expelled into the outside air, but in condensation drying, this heat is captured and reused for the drying process, making it an energy-e cient method.
If your produce requires high drying capacity, consider hybrid condensation drying with hatches. This system saves a signi cant amount of energy and also leverages the natural drying e ect of outdoor air.
Continuous monitoring of storage conditions
Use a storage management system that monitors real-time conditions of your produce 24/7. This system automatically adjusts the cooling system, hatches and air circulation to maintain the desired conditions in your storage. By properly setting up automation, you can reduce manual workload and ensure your potatoes stay at the perfect temperature.
Now’s the perfect time to review your storage
Learn what you can improve in your storage and make sure changes are implemented before your next harvest. For more information visit www.omnivent.com/consult FG
Custom-built storage & cooling systems
Perfectly controlled temperature, humidity & CO2
Always know the actual conditions of your product
After a season of hard work growing potatoes, onions or carrots, we make it easy for you to store your produce in perfect conditions. We provide the expertise and technique, so you can concentrate on the job outside. And you can always rely on our dedicated support team for storage advice and 24/7 technical service.
NOW’S THE PERFECT TIME TO REVIEW YOUR STORAGE
We’ll help you pinpoint what can be improved in your storage, and ensure it’s done in time for your next harvest. Plan a no-obligation storage consult with our UK representative Ronnie Laing today. Visit omnivent.com/consult or call +44 (0) 794 006 7458.
POWER UP YOUR PLANT HEALTH
ENHANCED BIO AVAILABILITY™ TECHNOLOGY
COPPER AND ZINC FOR PLANT HEALTH
Zynergy® combines copper and zinc to boost plant health, nutrient uptake and abiotic stress tolerance. Suitable for a wide range of crops, Zynergy® is part of the OMEX Fortiflo™ range of foliar and speciality fertilisers. Scan to find out how OMEX is Producing Healthier Harvests with Zynergy®.
PROVEN ON UK CROPS
IMPROVES EFFICACY OF PPP
Omex Agriculture’s Zynergy is a distinctive foliar fertiliser that combines essential micronutrients — copper and zinc — to boost plant health.
Speci cally formulated to optimise nutrient uptake, Zynergy plays a pivotal role in integrated crop management programs, particularly for potato cultivation.
Copper and zinc are vital micronutrients that contribute signi cantly to various physiological processes in potato plants:
Enhance yourpotatoplant health
Copper is essential for photosynthesis and the structural integrity of plant cells, copper in uences stem strength and the development of new shoots and roots.
Zinc in potatoes is responsible for root formation and cell strength. It contributes towards seed vigour,
skin nish and helps to prevent growth disorders. Zinc plays a major role in the structure and function of the integumentary system, a ecting skin elasticity, and wound healing.
Integrating Zynergy into potato growing o ers several advantages:
1. Enhanced plant health – By improving the bioavailability of copper and zinc, Zynergy strengthens the plant’s natural health mechanisms. Trials conducted by the University of Nottingham demonstrated that Zynergytreated potato leaves aided the e cacy of PPP in relation to blight.
2. High quality nutrition – Having performed in multiple in-house and independent trials, such as Euro ns, Zynergy o ers growers a high quality potato nutrition product. Formulated using enhanced bio availability (eba) technology
3. Stress tolerance – Zynergy aids in mitigating abiotic stress factors such as drought and temperature uctuations, contributing to more resilient potato crops.
Incorporating Zynergy into potato cultivation not only addresses micronutrient de ciencies but also enhances plant health systems, improves yield quality, and increases overall crop resilience. As part of an integrated crop management strategy, Zynergy o ers potato growers a scienti cally validated tool to optimise plant health and productivity, Omex concludes. FG
You can rely on David Harrison to
your needs. From simple Visser palletisers to the Symach’s “all singing, all dancing” alternatives and from the incredibly accurate Manter weigher baggers to the tough and reliable Sack Filling Company stitching line they will, along with expert back-up, help to keep your packhouse both proftable and fully operational. David Harrison Handling Solutions Ltd are proud to have possibly the UK’s largest stock of used and refurbished potato handling equipment.
New ‘Fields’ and ‘Crops’ applications
With the introduction of the new ‘Fields’ and ‘Crops’ applications, myGRIMME portal users have even more powerful tools at their disposal to enhance e ciency and productivity.
According to Grimme, the ‘Fields’ application revolutionises eld management by allowing users to analyse completed eldwork, such as planting and harvesting, in detail. Machine data is automatically recorded in geo-referenced form, providing valuable insights into key variables such as application rates, planting depth, missing tubers, and yields. By o ering a precise overview of eld performance, ‘Fields’ helps optimise individual plot management and improve overall e ciency. Users can manually de ne eld boundaries or seamlessly import them from
existing systems. Once a eld is linked to a job within myGRIMME, all relevant machine data is automatically assigned to that plot, ensuring accurate documentation and analysis.
Meanwhile, the new ‘Crops’ application brings an innovative way to manage multiple crop types, including potatoes, beets, and vegetables, Grimme explains. By colour-coding di erent crops in the portal, users gain a clear and organised view of their elds. Further customisation allows for the subdivision of crops into speci c varieties, which can be displayed in real-time via the operator terminal. This geo-referenced data integration enhances visibility within ‘Jobs’ and ‘Fields,’ while also helping to prevent variety mixing during harvesting. FG
Innovation never stops
According to manufacturer Larrington Trailer, the Guardian Box loader is being used by potato farmers around the world. The company explains its popularity, saying: “The Guardian Box loader is helping growers reduce product damage and increase their pro tability, with one company reporting as much as 20% increase in eld-to-shop capacity due to less damage.” Larrington Trailers does, however, point out that, although the Guardian Box Loader is very e ective, there can be issues achieving an even load and some instances of overloading, so it’s crucial you only load on top, what the boxes below can take.
The company comments: “Over
the past two years, we’ve developed a new Hydraulic Chute System (HCS) for the Guardian range. The trailer receives the lifted produce onto its soft cushioned top preventing any unnecessary damage, before the hydraulic chutes are opened to gently lower the lifted produce, such as potatoes, onions, and cabbages, into the boxes below.
Once loaded to the appropriate level, the top of the loader is raised out of the boxes and the chutes are closed again forming a protective rain cover, all while still in the eld. Should any produce accidentally spill-over, it would be in the eld and the harvester can easily collect it.”
Contact the company directly for further information. FG
Unlock
Sustainable potato sprout control
DormFresh and its product, 1,4Sight, provide e ective and environmentally friendly solutions for controlling sprouting in stored potatoes. Developed by DormFresh Ltd in collaboration with 1,4Group, 1,4Sight utilises dimethylnaphthalene (1,4-DMN), a natural compound that helps keep potatoes in a dormant state by mimicking their own sproutsuppressing hormones.
This bio-control method is recognised for its safety pro le and minimal environmental impact, making it a preferred alternative to traditional sprout inhibitors such as chlorpropham (CIPC), which has faced restrictions in various markets for safety reasons.
Since 1,4Sight does not just halt sprouting but promotes a true dormant state, it e ectively reduces weight loss and preserves skin quality
during storage. It is versatile across fresh and processing sectors, making it useful for a variety of potato storage environments. The product has been approved in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and over 25 countries in Europe, including the UK, with further international approvals anticipated as 1,4Group works toward establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) under the Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
1,4Sight also brings operational and logistical bene ts, reducing waste and ensuring that potatoes retain their quality from storage to market. In addition, DormFresh has prioritised customer education, providing resources and technical manuals to assist users with application techniques and best practices to maximise e cacy.
For more on 1,4Sight, visit www.dormfresh.co.uk FG
Newly launched planter model
Standen Engineering Ltd has reported that it is delighted with the interest it has received following the recent launch of the SR300 planter –a three-row trailed planter capable of planting three rows at a time in a 1.8 or 2.0m bed.
Plus, the central row can be turned o to enable two-row planting with the same planter. This model is also available in a two-row version for those who might prefer a trailed two-row planter to a tractormounted planter.
Standen says it’s not just the UK market that is interested in the SR300; an early model is currently on its way to South Africa, and other Standen machinery models are
currently headed for Canada, Latvia and Japan.
Growers seeking to upgrade or replace their potato harvester ahead of the harvesting season later in the year still have time to place an order for a Standen T2XS model, the company points out. This well-built harvester o ers gentle and e cient harvesting with excellent driver visibility. It is quick and easy to set up as well as being very user friendly.
Adjustment of the roller table and separators from in-cab is simple. The VariSep o ers an additional separation point and the Roto Axle is great for opening up in the eld.
For any machinery enquiries please contact Standen directly. FG
BlueNTM captures nitrogen from the air for use by the crop throughout the growing season. BlueN can be used on a wide range of crops including potatoes.
Find out more at: www.corteva.co.uk/bluen
O ering processing performance and flexibility
Dewulf’s MH 241 and MH 242 receiving hoppers can be equipped with the Scotts Evolution cleaning module, o ering “exceptional processing performance and extreme exibility”. Positioned right after the bunker oor, the machine features a standard presentation belt, ensuring better dosing and improved product ow, the two companies say.
The Scotts Evolution unit itself comprises eight smooth rollers and eight Evolution spiral rollers that require minimal maintenance,
o ering a reliable and long-lasting solution. Its broad working range ensures outstanding results in both dry conditions and the most challenging, wet conditions, making it suitable for all harvesting environments.
The system is also adept at handling small stones, providing a thorough yet gentle cleaning process.
Users can customise their cleaning approach by selecting either four ribs on the spiral rollers for standard cleaning or six ribs for
a more intensive cleaning process. Additionally, a convenient platform on the side of the unit allows for excellent visual inspection of the product ow, enabling operators to monitor and adjust the cleaning process e ortlessly.
With its combination of robustness, adaptability, and e ective cleaning capabilities, the MH 24x with Scotts Evolution module is the ideal choice for growers seeking e cient and reliable crop handling, the manufacturers say. FG
E
cient potato storage
As UK potato growers face increasing challenges from rising energy costs to stricter regulations on chemical sprout suppression, e cient storage has never been more critical. Farm Electronics Ltd says it understands that smart investments in storage technology can protect crop quality, reduce waste, and improve pro tability.
The company says its latest ventilation and control systems o er a “market-leading” approach to storage, optimising air ow, humidity, and temperature while minimising energy use. By integrating cutting-edge sensor monitoring, growers can make real-time adjustments, ensuring crops remain in peak condition for longer, without unnecessary costs.
According to Farm Electronics Ltd, sustainability is at the heart
of everything it does. Its Energy Management System allows growers to harness renewable energy, cutting electricity costs while reducing carbon footprints. Plus, its systems can be retro tted to existing stores, making upgrades more accessible and coste ective, the company explains.
Farm Electronics Ltd says it partners with growers to future-proof their businesses located centrally in Grantham, Lincolnshire, and that investing in the right storage solutions can mean the di erence between a pro table crop and unnecessary losses.
Visit Farm Electronics at the SPOT event (21st May), WCM Trails day (31st July), Potatoes in Practice (7th August) and British Potato Event Harrogate (19–20th November) or contact the team to nd out more. FG
The leading UK manufacturer of rubber grading screens for all types of grading equipment
•Rubber grading screens
•Rubber web covers
•Sample riddles
•Perforated washer belts
screens
riddles
Smart meter to prevent wastage
Briggs Irrigation says it can update your water meter to a Smart Meter to save time, improve monitoring and help prevent wastage.
The Corby-based manufacturer of complete irrigation systems can supply and t the IRIS data logger which transmits data from the meter wirelessly to an app or web portal. It can be supplied ready tted to new meters or retro tted to most irrigation meters supplied since 2010.
The unit ful ls Environment Agency daily meter reading requirements and alarms can be set up for low or high water ow, providing an instant check on the network to help prevent waste. Readings can be exported to Excel so you can see long term trends at a glance.
Reliable packaging for potato farming
Briggs Irrigation managing director Adrian Colwill said: “The one-o price includes data transfer for up to 10 years, so there’s no irritating annual subscription and once installed the device simply does its job. We are satis ed this device, which is made in Europe, is reliable and o ers excellent exibility to make life easier and improve e ciency. We can also test and certify your existing irrigation water meters.” FG device, made excellent exibility
For over a decade, Sackman has established itself as a trusted partner for UK potato farmers, providing a consistent supply of reliable and highquality agricultural sacks. Understanding the critical role packaging plays in protecting, storing, and transporting valuable crops, Sackman focuses on practical solutions that meet the demands of modern agriculture.
range
The company’s range includes breathable paper sacks, ideal for maintaining potato freshness and providing a clean presentation. For robust handling and extended storage, woven polypropylene sacks o er exceptional strength and durability. When ventilation is key to preserving crop quality, Sackman’s mesh sacks ensure optimal air ow, minimising moisture and spoilage risks and durability. For large scale operations, its FIBC vented bulk bags deliver a cost-e ective and sturdy solution for e cient bulk storage and transportation.
to providing packaging that farmers can depend on. O ering a variety of sizes ensures that speci c agricultural needs can be met e ectively. Furthermore, the convenience of free UK delivery makes accessing these essential supplies straightforward.
Sackman is committed
Trusted by farmers nationwide, Sackman is a name you can trust for high performance packaging solutions designed to support the agricultural sector. Explore the complete range at www.thesackman.co.uk and discover the right sacks to enhance your potato farming operations. FG
Potato Paper Sacks
• Booms for lane widths 10 - 96 metres
• Hosereels from 150 - 750m pipe length
• Motorpump range; fow rates 30-150m3/hr
• Raindancer remote monitoring & control
• Fixtures, fttings, pipework and more... visit our website: briggsirrigation.co.uk call us on 01536 260338 or email: enquiries@briggsirrigation.co.uk
Our range of Paper Sacks offers a wide range of high-quality, eco-friendly packaging solutions designed to meet the needs of various industries
Our Hessian jute sacks are a timeless solution that perfectly blends durability, sustainability, and style.
Log Bags - Vented Bulk Bags
We have a huge selection of high-quality bags woven from polypropylene and monofilament materials.
Vented Bulk Bags
Rotproof, Vented, and suitable for storage of dry Firewood and logs and various other uses.
Hessian Jute Sacks
Boost potato yield and quality
AminoA discusses the positive impact biostimulants can have on potato crops.
By integrating natural biostimulant products from AminoA into potatogrowing programmes, growers can achieve higher quality tubers, reduce chemical inputs, and improve overall sustainability, the company says.
“One important step is applying AminoA FLO or GRO directly to the tuber before planting, supporting early root development and improving nutrient absorption,” explains AminoA managing director Richard Phillips.
At planting, AminoA BLAAZT is used as a liquid placement fertiliser under the tuber, helping to establish a stronger root system and improve resistance to stress and disease. BLAAZT can then be used as a foliar mixed with blight spray to improve calcium mobility and prevent internal brown spot.
“I’ve been using AminoA biostimulants for many years. Last year, we applied BLAAZT to our potatoes and saw a 3–4 tonne yield increase. It really evens out the crop, and we’ve signi cantly reduced our nitrogen use overall,” says Simon Craven, who is an arable farmer in East Yorkshire.
“Throughout the growing season,
AminoA FLO continues to play a key role in promoting tuber quality. A structured programme using AminoA FLO, applied every 14 days, helps achieve a more even sample with a better skin nish,” Mr Phillips advises.
AminoA FLO enhances nutrient uptake, promoting cell division, and strengthening plant tissue. Additionally, the bulking phase bene ts from two targeted AminoA FLO applications, which support tuber growth and maturation, leading to improved overall quality and marketability, AminoA says.
Beyond yield and quality improvements, AminoA FLO also supports cost reduction in fungicide use.
“As regulations move towards reducing active pesticide use by 2030, integrating FLO into a potato-growing strategy can naturally strengthen plant defences, reducing dependency on chemical treatments,” Mr Phillips adds.
Enhancing photosynthesis and plant resilience, AminoA biostimulants o er growers a tool to minimise disease pressure and contribute to a more sustainable farming approach. FG
www.certiseurope.co.uk/slugs
• Fencing contractors
• Hedge and tree planting
• Potato box repairs
• Grain store cleaning
more…
• Fast, efficient service
• Excellent attention to detail Lincs based – will travel
WHEAT AND LIVESTOCK PRICING GUIDE
The wheat futures, cattle, pig and lamb prices as at or around 11th April 2025
Each month, Farmers Guide will be publishing a summary showing the London Feed Wheat Futures, overall all-prime cattle deadweight, GB Standard Pig Price (SPP), and deadweight lamb average prices as provided by Openfield (grain) and AHDB (livestock).
This month's data covers the period from April 2024 to April 2025, to allow a simple comparison of prices across the year and highlight any trends. The prices shown are the latest price available at the time of going to press. FG
£240
£230
£220
£210
£200
£190
£180
£170
£160
£150
£140
London Feed Wheat Futures for May 25
Farmers Guide | The UK’s Leading Monthly Farming Magazine
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Database manager
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Marketing executive
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Every month there are on average over 500 farmer-to-farmer machinery items for sale in print which are submitted by farmers. There is no charge for this service as long as you are a farmer selling your unwanted machinery.
Additionally, there are thousands of items on our website www.farmads.co.uk. This is also a free service for farmers. Thank you or scan the QR code
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On instructions from Granta Farming Ltd due to a change in farming policy MANOR FARM, GREAT CHESTERFORD SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX, CB10 1PJ
TIMED ONLINE AUCTION OF NEW HOLLAND TRACTORS, MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT
To include: Tractors: 2021 New Holland T7.270 (2,846hrs), 2017 New Holland T7.270 (5,329hrs), 2014 New Holland T7.250 (8,909hrs) Machinery: 2021 Kockerling Vario 480 cultivator 4.8m, 2019 HM 14tonne trailer, 2018 Weaving Shortdisc cultivator 5m, 2014 Chafer Sentry 5000 24m sprayer, 2018 Spearhead 655T Twiga hedgecutter, 2005 McConnel SR15 bat wing topper 4.6m, Tim Howard 5leg subsoiler, Dowdeswell DP7E 6furrow reversible plough, Chafer 3,000ltr bowser, 2005 Fuel Proof 1,000ltr static fuel bowser, 2018 Cherry Products Smart Box, Enduramaxx 10,000ltr water tank with HM insert Also: front weights, applicators and spares.
COMMENCES: WEDNESDAY 7TH MAY 2025 AT 10:00AM
FINISHES: THURSDAY 15TH MAY 2025 AT 10:00AM
VIEWING DAY: FRIDAY 9TH MAY 2025 10:00AM - 4:00PM
On instructions from K & DJ Lavin due to a change in farming policy OLD GARSWOOD HALL FARM, ASHTON-IN-MAKERFIELD, WIGAN, WN4 0XR
TIMED ONLINE AUCTION OF AGRICULTURAL TRACTORS, COMBINE HARVESTER, VEHICLES, IMPLEMENTS AND MACHINERY
To include: Tractors: 2002 John Deere 6520 (2,853hrs), Case 1394 Hydra-Shift, Ford 5000, Massey Ferguson 35X, 35, David Brown 990 Combine Harvester: 2004 New Holland TC56 with 15ft cut (1,450hrs) Vehicle: 2014 Land Rover Defender 90 (14,378 miles) Sprayer: 1992 Frazier AgriBuggy 4D 12m (2,974hrs)
Machinery: 2013 Reco Sulky Tramline CX with Kuhn HR304 power harrow 3m, Welger RP235 round baler, 2016 He-Va 300 front press 3m, 2017 Wakeley 510 Ration Mill, 2014 Sulky DPX fert spreader, 2018 McHale 991 LBER bale wrapper, Amazone KE303 power harrow 3m, Ferrag RAU Spridomat D2 sprayer 12m, New Holland Hayliner 377, 2006 AS Marston CMT10 10t, 1989 Marshall 8EM 8t and 1981 AS Marston F8T 8t trailers, Ifor Williams TA510G-12 livestock trailer, 2018 Hull feeder bucket, Ferguson implements Also: cultivators, attachments, trailers, livestock equipment, wheels and tyres
COMMENCES: FRIDAY 9th MAY 2025 AT 10.00AM
FINISHES: TUESDAY 20th MAY 2025 AT 10.00AM
VIEWING DAY: WEDNESDAY 14th MAY 2025 10.00AM - 4.00PM
CAMBRIDGE MACHINERY SALES
FOLLOWING FURTHER STRONG DEMAND, FURTHER ENTRIES REQUIRED IN ALL SECTIONS
The Saleground, Sutton, Ely, Cambs, CB6 2QT MAY AUCTION: MONDAY 12TH MAY 2025
AUCTION: MONDAY 9TH JUNE 2025
On Instructions from Eakring Farming Ltd
At Main Street, Eakring, Newark NG22 0BL
Bidding Opens 15th May 2025 at 9am
Bidding Ends 21st May 2025 from 12 noon
Viewing from 10am until 4pm on Wednesday 14th, Thursday 15th and Monday 19th May 2025
Including: Harvester: Case 9250 Axial-flow (22); Tractors: Case Magnum 380 CVX Rowtrac (23), Case Quadtrac 535 (11), Case 160 Puma E icient Power (13), Case 150 Puma CVX E icient Power (16), Case MX110 (99); Sprayer: Househam Spirit 3000 24m self-propelled (24); Material Handler: Sanderson SB55 (75); Trailers: Grain Saver GS-24,5 twin axle chaser, Bailey TB2 18t twin axle (23), Collin White 18t twin axle (95), Collin White 18t twin axle (94), Stainless steel 16,000l water tank; Implements: Kverneland TS-drill (23), Vaderstad Rapid A 600s 6m drill (21), Kuhn Axis H-EMC-W 40.2 fertiliser spreader (18), Bednar Swi erdisc XE10000 10m disc cultivator (21), Simba 10m Cultipress, TWB 9 leg subsoiler with twin row rear packer, Vaderstad 6m Topdown 600, Dalbo 12.3m power roll hydraulic folding Cambridge rolls (21); Miscellaneous: Watkins 1200kg front mounted weight block (15), Watkins bag li er to fit Merlo (13).
For further information contact James Walton or Chloe Greig from our Humber ofice
On instructions from RL, GL & JF Pierce
At Tythorn Hill Farm, Cooks Lane, Wigston, Leicestershire LE18 3TA
Bidding Opens 8th May 2025 at 7am
Bidding Ends 13th May 2025 from 12 noon
Viewing from 10am until 4pm on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th May 2025
Including:Forage Harvester & Accessories: John Deere 8400i Prodrive with John Deere 639 grass pick up header (18), whole crop crop-processor, maize crop-processor, 10-row spout extension for maize; Tractors: John Deere 6R185 50kph Command Pro (22), Deutz Fahr 6215 TTV Agrotron 50kph (18); Vehicle: Land Rover Discovery SDV6 Commercial (12); Cultivation & Grassland Equipment: Kuhn MergeMaxx 1090 belt merger (21), Kverneland 85112C 10-rotor hydraulic folding tedder (20), Watson HFCB 630 Cambridge rolls with levelling paddles (c.14), Claydon Hybrid 3m drill, Horsch Joker 3CT with Horsch Mono 3TG tool bar (16) etc.
For further information contact George Watchorn or Jon Clampin from our St Neots ofice
2022, unused, 18,886L capacity, 50mm swivel ring hitch, sprung drawbar, 11000 Jurop pump, hydraulic and air brakes, 650/55R26.5 tyres, LED strobe beacon, LED road lights, 3 point linkage brackets
New Holland T6.155
2024, 850hrs, Electro Command, 40km/h, creep speed, APUH, cab suspension, 8 LED work lights, 3 speed PTO, high visibility roof, 90mm lift rams, 3 mechanical remotes, fender controls, bluetooth radio, dynamic f/fenders, large fuel tank, a/c, Firestone 460/85R42 and 420/85R28
Case Optum 300
2022, 319hrs, 50km/h, 220L/min, full suspension, 4 speed PTO, 250A alternator, 5 e/remote valves, GPS, 2 mid mount valves with advanced joystick, fender controls, high mount road lights, bluetooth radio, dynamic f/fenders, ISO Power Beyond, Telematics, AFS Pro 1200, 120mm lift rams Cat3, f/linkage, cooled storage box, Michelin 710/70 R42 and 600/70 R30
Cultivation Equipment including Cultivators, Land Press, Ploughs, Corn and Direct Drills, Fertiliser Spreader, Trailers, Hedge Cutter, Irrigators, Irrigation pipes, Mobile Irrigation Pumps, etc.
Miscellaneous Lots Corn Conditioning Equipment, New Plough and Cultivator Spares, Dual Wheels, Row Crop Wheels, Livestock Equipment and Calf Creep Feeders, etc.
Full inventory via Cruso & Wilkin website or i-bidder (in due course)
Further Information available at: www.crusowilkin.co.uk
Alex Ison at The Estate Office, Church Farm, Hillington PE31 6DH
Friday 9th May – Two Auctions – 10.00am start ANNUAL DARLEY MOOR COLLECTIVE SALE
Darley Moor Air eld, Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Large Collective Sale of Tractors, Lorries, Vehicles, Quad Bikes, Arable and Livestock Equipment, Farming Antiquities, Sundries and E ects
Manitou MLT629 Telehandler (15’) 8 Trailers, Ifor Williams Cattle Trailer Grassland Machinery General Implements, Workshop Equipment Sundries & E ects
Friday 23rd May at 10:30am BURROWS FARM, Clifton, Nottingham NG11 8NQ
3 Tractors, Manitou Telehandler, Grassland Machinery, Trailers and Sundries
NEW Holland 575 conventional baler, 1998, excellent condition, done very little work, owned since new. £9000+VAT ono. B Williams Tel 07490 135102 (Worcestershire)
& BALE
MOULTON Big Bale grab, Manitou brackets, good condition. £900+VAT. R Catton Tel 07966 785095/07976 648004 (Hertfordshire)
POWER pack to run bale wrapper, etc, with petrol engine, needs TLC. POA. V Smith Tel 07876 770545 (Warwickshire)
COOKS Flat 8 bale sledge, good condition. £250+VAT. D Smith Tel 07973 139483 (Nottinghamshire)
• 2008 (low bale count)
• EC Controls (in cab)
• Serviced ready for work
• Very good condition
• Stored inside • One owner
McHALE V640 round baler, 55000 bales, 2012, located Barnsley. £13,950 ono. Bailey Tel 07871 443518 (South Yorkshire)
NEW Holland BB940 packer cutter, 2002, 83000 bales, excellent working order, new tyres last year, good condition. R Baker Tel 01594 530277 (Gloucestershire)
FLAT 8 bale grab, Chilton/MX headstock which can be removed to carry pallet tines included. £150 ono. M Davey Tel 07702 580669 (Suffolk)
BROWNS round bale handler with JCB Q fit brackets. E Vicary Tel 07920 832879 (Essex)
COMPLETE small bale system – Welger AP360 baler, excellent condition, little used; also, 24 bale sledge & front/rear loaders to hold 50, all stored inside, may sell separately. £7,000 ono. J Pearson Tel 01283 732275 (Derbyshire)
FLAT 8 bale grab, good condition, JCB Quick fit brackets. £125+VAT. D Smith Tel 07973 139483 (Nottinghamshire)
FLAT 8 bale grab, choice of 2, Quicke & pin & cone brackets, buyer to collect. £220+VAT per grab ono. T Williams Tel 07920 754700 (Gloucestershire)
JOHN Deere 456 conventional baler, excellent condition, baled 2000 bales last year hay & straw with no problems, complete service before last harvest, knotters work perfectly, only selling due to upgrading to round baler. £3,500 ono. M Kirby Tel 01547 540674/07815 440243 (Shropshire)
KRONE Big Pack 1290, 2017, 37817 bales, air brakes, steering axle, weighing tailgate, moisture meter, K80 spoon, 620 tyres, worklight kit, flashing light, new VSF in end of 22, location Honiton. £65,000+VAT ono. L Geer Tel 07545 053667 (Devon)
CLAAS Markant 65 baler, 1996, owned by us for two years & a local farmer for many years beforehand, been a good baler, selling due to upgrade, hydraulic pick up. £2,950+VAT. J Grayham-Ormes Tel 07538 744483 (Bedfordshire)
RUSSELL 56 small bale carrier, used last year & in good condition. M Mays-Saxby Tel 07764 927257 (Cambridgeshire)
& BALE
WELGER AP830 square baler, high capacity, with wide pick-up, hydraulic drawbar & pick-up lift, can be seen working. £2,000+VAT. M Fleming Tel 07881 913725 (Lincolnshire)
MCHALE 911BE fully automatic trailed bale wrapper, 2013, a very well looked after machine, owned since new, low bale count, just 4900, been used just by ourselves & barn stored all its life. £11,450+VAT ono. J Turner Tel 07595 942986 (Lincolnshire)
CHILLINGTON bale transporter/ lifter with JCB telehandler brackets, for use with flat 8 sledge system, carries multiples of 8 bales up to 32 bales, in good working order. £400+VAT. M Fleming Tel 07881 913725 (Lincolnshire)
MASSEY Ferguson 185MB mini Hesston 80x90 four string baler, 2000, been spare baler for last 3yrs, good working order. £8,500+VAT ono. J Foulston Tel 07773 915975 (Lincolnshire)
QUICKE Q66 loader boom only, no brackets, they are staying on tractor, in Fendt green, 2015, in very good condition as little used, 3rd service & boom suspension, c/w loader half of multi docking connector. £5,950+VAT. D Hudson Tel 07889055974 (North Yorkshire)
BEET EQUIPMENT
ARMER SALMON beet cleaner loader, had little use, diesel engine, one owner from new. £500+VAT. J Bunning Tel 07931 331953/01945 780344 (Cambridgeshire)
STANHAY Rally 12 row beet drill, hydraulic folding & hydraulic markers, ceramic coulters, in good condition. £2,000+VAT. D Lunn Tel 07941 072957 (Cambridgeshire)
STANHAY Webb 6 row sugar beet drill. £350+VAT. P Freeman Tel 07711 145124 (Lincolnshire)
the range 9000 Series c/w R/C, slew elevator and powered wheels, approx 5278hrs 2023 CTM9053XLRC with rollers, excellent condition, top of the range 9000 Series c/w R/C, slew elevator and powered wheels, only 1035hrs
All sales enquiries
or
LOCKABLE storage container, 20’ x 8’ x 8’. £1,555+VAT ono. J Powell Tel 07790 516976 (Gloucestershire) CONTAINER block,
Kings Langley • Tel: 01923 265211
kingslangley@oliverlandpower.co.uk
Luton • Tel: 01582 727111
luton@oliverlandpower.co.uk
Tingewick • Tel: 01280 848494
tingewick@oliverlandpower.co.uk
Stratford • Tel: 01789 720265
stratford@oliverlandpower.co.uk
Colchester • Tel: 01206 581126
colchester@oliverlandpower.co.uk
COUNTRY STORE
2021 JCB FASTRAC 4220
4,180hrs, 4WS, BKT 600/70R30 Tyres, /linkage, 4-serv to rear, 1 to front, twin beacons, FPP,
MATROT side knife, for Claas combine, excellent condition. £325. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
NEW Holland TX66, 20’ header w/trailer, 1999, 2210 eng/1770 drum hrs, hydrostatic trans, straw chopper, chaff spreader, 6 straw walker self lev sieves, barn stored, bright paintwork, owner driven & maintained, cracking combine.
£29,000+VAT ono. H Pell Tel 07880 736854 (Bedfordshire)
MASSEY Ferguson 307, 1982, 10' cut, broken shaft, c/w a spare shaft, for spares or repair. £1,400 ono. H Jones Tel 07790 479231 (Powys)
CLAAS Lexion 540, 2005 2 owners from new, owner operator for past 10 seasons, 3506E/2768D hrs, 22’ Vario header c/w rape kit, barn stored & in very good condition, cut 850ac last season without fault, upgrading for more output. £50,000+VAT ono. D Daniels Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
NEW Holland 8.70, 2019, 25' varifeed, twin rape knives, Ziegler trailer, 1413 engine/1111 threshing hrs, vgc. £159,000+VAT. C Ashmead Tel 07831 331560 (Gloucestershire)
DIGGERS / DOZERS / DUMPERS
NEW/UNUSED Agrimech bulldozer/ snow plough, 5’ blade, adjustable angles, for pushing snow/soil, grain, hedge cuttings, etc, suitable for smallish Kubota, Siromer, etc. £520 no VAT, prefer cash on collection. R James Tel 01263 837569 (Norfolk)
10" for backhoe type of machine (choice of several buckets subject to availability). £200+VAT. S Lewis Tel 07850 739556 (Shropshire)
2011, 2417hrs, Vario 600 + side knife, new top sieves, good condition. J Brooks Tel 07776 421444/01502 677201 (Norfolk)
CLAAS Lexion 770TT, 2014, 2500hrs, GPS steering, full business pack, power spreader, cruise control with 2017 Vario cutter bar, side knife & trailer in vgc. £130,000+VAT. R Wright Tel 07584 654790 (Cambridgeshire)
07764 835562
PYRUS single row early potato harvester, 2018, owned from new, but hardly done any work.
£8,000+VAT ono. S Laslett Tel 07764 291738 (Kent)
1995 Claas Dominator 88 Classic, C450 header with trolley, only 2302 eng hrs, Perkins engine, 5 straw walker, f/w new knife & straw walker blocks last season, very genuine totally original, very reluctant sale, change in farm policy. £22,000+VAT. C Haynes Tel 01953 861444 (Norfolk)
2013 Case IH Axial Flow 9230, 24” tracks, 4wd, 2014 30’ header with tandem header trailer, 2000 engine/1600 drum hrs, vgc. £83,500+VAT ono. D Clayton Tel 07836 204646 (Derbyshire)
ZURN oilseed rape Side knife to fit John Deere 600R Series header, done very little work. £450+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
NEW Holland TX68 Plus, first registered 2001, approx 3800hrs, 1050/50R32 front tyres, RDS Ceres 8000i yield monitor, 24' header, regularly serviced, near Needham Market. £24,000. D Willis Tel 07860 707077 (Suffolk)
NEW Holland 17' combine knife, new, fits 8000 Series & others, buyer to arrange/pay for delivery. £190+VAT ono. T Williams Tel 07920 754700 (Gloucestershire)
Specialists in new & refurbished combine harvester parts
See our ad on page 131
COMPRESSORS
LARGE air compressor, 3phase 440V, 3hp motor, twin V air pump, 12/14 cu ft/min average output, 150lbs/sq safe working pressure controlled by auto switch, c/w safety valve, pressure gauge, air outlet valve & drain tap, ideal for workshop. £450 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
CROP PROTECTION
SCATTER Bird Mk4 bird scarer (2), good condition. £250+VAT ono. H Blackwell Tel 07850 468364 (Essex)
teeth for Hitachi 13T excavator. £135+VAT. S Lewis Tel 07850 739556 (Shropshire)
DX85R 8t digger, available to hire with driver, range of buckets including root rake, hydraulic thumb & hydraulic tilting bucket. T Walker Tel 07743 135396 (Norfolk)
3CX digger with three buckets, first registered in 1988, slight leak hydraulic oil & hand brake doesn't work. £6,999 ono. C Bacon Tel 07836 731821 (Suffolk)
DRILLS
VADERSTAD 6m P drill, good condition, brilliant heavy land drill, always barn stored, very reliable. £7,500+VAT. R Garner Tel 07767 418452 (Norfolk)
John Deere 955 Tractor Hydrostatic transmission, center
rear PTO, 1,335 hours 1987 John Deere 2650 C/w John Deere 245M loader, 2 scvs, 540/1000 PTO, 20,704 hours!!!
Vaderstad Carrier 650 Crossobard leveling paddles
rubber runner packer
DRILLS
2015 KRM 2311 Sola 4m drill, excellent condition, barn stored.
£9,500. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
FARMFORCE front hopper, steering press wheels, hydraulic fan & Accord metering unit, been strengthened in place, in fair condition.
£3,000+VAT ono. J Arnold Tel 07974 333464 (Warwickshire)
SIMTECH 300A direct drill, good condition, c/w new discs & points. £10,000. A Haste Tel 07740 257282 (Suffolk)
SIMBA 8m Freeflow cultivator drill, 1 of 3 produced with own engine to run fans, complete & working, videos on request via WhatsApp, perfect behind FW60/Steiger, etc, low cost, high output, excellent condition, Hartwell, Northants. £5,000+VAT. P Weston Tel 07947 923844 (Northamptonshire)
SUMO Versadrill 3m with Stocks applicator. Offers. P Freeman Tel 07711 145124 (Lincolnshire)
MOORE Unidrill DP400A, 4m folding, f/w new discs, hydraulic fan, unsure of age, imported from France by ourselves around 8yrs ago, well maintained, always been barn stored, only selling due to upgrading to a 6m version, does a great job. £13,995+VAT. H Noble Tel 07749 787385 (South Yorkshire)
VADERSTAD Rapid RDA400S, very good condition, extremely accurate, 6502ha, track eradicators, staggered wheels, marker arms, barn stored, new cultivation discs & rear harrow tines 95ha ago so as new, ready to go, priced to sell.
£19,995+VAT. A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)
KVERNELAND Optima 6 row maize drill, 4.5m, 2006, with extra tension springs, hydraulic markers, hydraulic extension, Tungsten treated coulters, good condition.
£2,500+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
ACCORD 3m pneumatic drill, approx 1984, unused but shed stored for the last 20yrs, tidy condition & good working order, Suffolk coulters, PTO driven fan, land wheel metering. £950+VAT. T Walker Tel 07765 113701 (Lincolnshire)
COVENBROOK Triton drill 4.8m with Weaving front tank, 2020, f/tank fully rewired last year by RDS to include new sensors, radar, etc, rewired with larger seed distribution motor to allow 6m drill at later date if required, exc cond.
£35,000+VAT ono. A Turner Tel 07977 910501 (Essex)
WEAVING front tank, 2011, in excellent condition, hydraulic fan, radar metering, all you will need to get started. £5,750+VAT ono. T Ivey Tel 07702 102014 (Cambridgeshire)
HORSCH CO4 4m folding tine drill, 2003, low draft coulters, Horsch metering c/w 4 seeding barrels, radar ground sensing, upgraded to hyd fan, variable seed rate ready, bout markers, pre-ems, following tines, cleated tyres, good cond.
£13,250+VAT ono. R Allan Tel 07786 964728 (Leicestershire)
SUMO DTS 3 3m Direct drill, 2022, fully mtd, 1900L tank, 333mm row spacing, 120mm seed row width, 9 legs, resin filled tyre roller, w/ lights, markers, tramline kit, tank & rear cameras, only 514ha from new, SFI direct drill payments.
£37,500+VAT ono. R Allan Tel 07786 964728 (Rutland)
EQUESTRIAN
TOP quality horse hay, 5' rounds.
£39/bale, discount for large orders. D Lavender Tel 07768 090004 (Norfolk)
SIX strong IAE rubber & metal partitions & gates for indoor stables, two sheeted metal doors, six sheeted rubber partitions, ten sheeted rubber gates & five sheeted rubber doors & posts, all top class, plus three Galebreakers.
£4,000+VAT ono. N White Tel 07778 847454 (Gloucestershire)
FENCING & GATES
CROWD barriers, used, 63 available. £5+VAT each. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
GALVANISED heavy duty 14' field gates, c/w hook & eyes, never used, £140 new. £100 ono. J Pearson Tel 01283 732275 (Derbyshire)
WOLSELEY electric fencer (3 strand wire system), needs 6V battery. £40. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire)
SECURITY gate, 10’ x 5’, very strong, professionally built, ideal for farm or home. £150. R Anderson Tel 07887 484733/01366 728583 (Norfolk)
SQUARE timber fencing posts (48), dimensions 75 x 75mm x 150cm, available for collection. £4/post. K Cowe Tel 01651 841358 (Aberdeenshire)
FORAGE & SILAGE
HAYLAGE, wrapped. £20/bale. G Meadows Tel 07951 111182/01728 660577 (Suffolk)
HAYLAGE & silage for sale, well wrapped 4' round bales, please ring for details & prices, near Beccles. N Stopher Tel 07977 461023/01502 575407 (Suffolk)
JOHNE Deere 3760 trailed forager, pickup hitch, moveable spout & fold down spout, have no need for it now, but chopped few acres of straw in 2023. £700+VAT ono. T Williams Tel 07920 754700 (Gloucestershire)
GOOD quality silage, up to 75 x 4’ bales, 2024 crop, Lincs/Notts border, near A1, articulated lorry access, loading assistance available. £22/bale ovno. A Cousins Tel 07582 957082 (Nottinghamshire)
diesel &
quality used &
25yrs. JSP UK Ltd. Tel 01432 353050 Mob 07774 742182 (Hereford)
Refurbished Power Harrows:
• All New Bearings and Seals in the Trough and Gearbox
• Blade Holders All New are fitted
• New Genuine Kuhn Tines fitted
• New Packer Roller Kit fitted
• Shot Blasted, Repainted and New Stickers
• New PTO and Guards fitted as standard
• Models of Power Harrows used: HR3001, HR3002, HR3003, HR4001, HR4002, HR4003 and HR4004
• Front or Rear Levelling Board as standard
• Cam Clutch new fitted on all machines
• Wheel Track Eradicators are available as an optional extra
All Seed Drills Totally Refurbished:
• New Main Frame with Extra Strength
• New Coulters and Pivot Bushes
• New Metering Device
• Vertical Folding Markers Power Harrow mounted
• New Disc Marker Pivots and Discs
• All New Hoses and Hopper Cover
• New Hopper Extension and Double Step
• Tramliner c/w 2 or 4 Shut Offs and Low Level Sensor
• All Shot Blasted, Repainted and New Stickers
• S-Type Following Harrow Standard on complete combinations
• 2 Rows of Coulters as standard – 3 rows optional extra
• Pre Emergence Markers available as an extra – £850
• Hydraulic Coulter Lift – £875
Refurbished Combinations
3m – from £14,250
Kuhn 3001 3002 3003
Power Harrow:
• New Maxi Packer Roller & Clod Board
• Accord 3m DA Seed Drill c/w Tramliner
• 2 row Suffolk Coulters
• Vertical Folding Markers fitted on harrow
• Hopper Extension
• Step and S-Harrow
Email: simon@andrewguest.co.uk
4m – from £15,950
Kuhn 4001 4002 4003
Power Harrow:
• New Maxi Packer Roller & Clod Board
• Accord 4M DA Seed Drill c/w Tramliner
• 2 row Suffolk Coulters
• Vertical Folding Markers fitted on Harrow
• Hopper Extension
• Step and S-Harrow
12 Months Warranty on our combis
Sales Spares & Repairs
Tel: 01746 762777 www.danagri-3s.com
FOUR 65t grain bins/silos c/w drying floors, these are listed as free of charge, but the new owner will be fully responsible for dismantling & removal (good clear access), still in a good state of repair, contact Tom for more information. T Hyde Tel 07790 091091 (Lincolnshire)
SWIFT Lift 125X elevator with luffing head & powered wheels, full sized tipping hopper, minimal usage, in excellent condition. £5,250+VAT. T Johnson Tel 07752 027631 (Suffolk)
VARIOUS single phase grain augers available, 4.5’’ & 5.5‘’, various lengths, fair condition. Offers. M Clarke Tel 07778 622356 (Suffolk) GRASS MACHINERY
TWOSE 3m flat roll, good condition. £720+VAT. R Catton Tel 07966 785095/07976 648004 (Hertfordshire)
&
SITREX Haymaker
height 4.08m, was indoors & in use 6mths ago then laid on side to prevent rain entering, holds 6-7t, collection. £700 ono. R Rayner Tel 07808 066655 (Cambridgeshire) GRAIN pusher, hardly used, 5m long, 2.5m wide front with rubber trim, 1.2m wide at back, 1m centres of fork slot. £2,350+VAT. R Rayner Tel 07808 066655 (Cambridgeshire)
HOT SPOT grain spear c/w electric motor. £150+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)
FIFTY-FOOT 6" belt with 5.5" cups, for a grain elevator, c/w man platform. £90. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire)
BENTALL outdoor grain bins, four 40t, c/w aeration laterals, loading, unloading augers, 3 stage fan, all single phase, inspection hatch, dismantled. £750+VAT. D Upton Tel 07813 553629 (Suffolk)
Grain Fans and other equipment available www.grainmachinery.co.uk
FLOORING for grain floor,
SINAR moisture meter. £1,000 ono. R McCheyne Tel 07973 408233 (Essex)
£12,500 +VAT
734212
JOHN Deere 8400 Commercial Triple Cylinder mower, 4wd hydrostatic drive, 10" 6 blade units, foldable roll bar, turf tyres, 1054hrs, 2015, w/lights & beacon, excellent condition. £10,000+VAT. P Hirst Tel 07712 676012 (Lincolnshire)
PZ Haybob tedder rake combination, adjustable width, barn stored. £500 no VAT. R Smith Tel 07748 682081/01206 251526 (Essex)
MAJOR GDX-HD 9' grass topper, 2016, c/w pneumatic tyres. £2,500+VAT. R Warren Tel 07817 168865 (Essex)
LAWN/GROUND roller, all steel, 42" x 16", tractor towable (not by hand), water fillable, net weight about 0.5cwt, gross will vary with amount of water filled, good condition. £125 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
FLEMING 13 TOP6 semi offset 6' cut pasture topper, vgc, not used commercially, just very light domestic use. £1,250 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
MASSEY Ferguson DM205 mower, 2024 with manufacturers warranty, only cut 15 acres, looking to sell as I want a mower with a conditioner instead. £5,000. R Thomas Tel 07952 528071 (Staffordshire)
FRANSGARD 390 twin rotor haybob type tedder, spreads & rows, in good working order, would go straight to work. £1,250+VAT, could deliver if necessary. M Banham Tel 07946 542816 (Lincolnshire)
Supplier of the original UK Drum & Blade
Alleviating compaction with the SLOT & SHATTER e ect
LELY Lotus 770 Stabilo tedder, farmer owned, selling as upgrading to a newer model. £6,750+VAT ono. G Oliver Tel 07999 465109 (Suffolk)
JACOBSEN R311T ride on batwing mower, 12 plate, 4x4, diff lock, fully serviced in February, 2170hrs, Kubota turbo engine, V5 road registered, very clean straight machine ready for work, delivery can be arranged. £10,500+VAT. L Robson Tel 07719 561629 (North Yorkshire)
WESSEX STX 120 sweeper collector, 1.2m working width, PTO driven, c/w link arm to ball hitch frame, used on farm for clearing up leaves, etc, good condition. Product youtube video: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=x3Yv71Tn6bQ. £3,100+VAT ono. R Witherow Tel 07756 414456 (Cambridgeshire)
photos and full spec at www.writtlefarmmachinery.co.uk 2022, Pull-Glide version, 3.2m, very nice order
RANSOMES HR300 ride on mower, 2012, road registered, full V5, 35hp Kubota turbo engine, 4600hrs, recently serviced in March, drives & cuts perfect, ready for work, delivery can be arranged. £8,250+VAT. L Robson Tel 07719 561629 (North Yorkshire)
TWOSE Drum Mower 185, very good condition, hardly used, barn stored, only ever been a backup machine. £1,500+VAT. A Thompson Tel 07884 480302 (Norfolk)
KUHN GF7902 Gyrotedder 8 rotor tedder, 2015, ideal hay machine, owner operated on a small farm, always stored under cover & in immaculate condition. £7,500+VAT. DG & MJ Newby Tel 07767 834684 (Norfolk)
KIDD 1.8m wide pasture topper, 3-position bolt on headstock, deep cranked blades reduce chance of impact damage to gearbox, free swinging blades reduce shock loads, easily adjustable cutting height, brand new PTO guard, good condition. £975+VAT ono. R Allan Tel 07771 922747 (Leicestershire)
Tractor Sales LTD
07496 734212
LAWNFLITE ride on mower, new Briggs & Stratton 12.5hp engine, less than 100hrs use, deck needs attention. £150 ono. I Ollerenshaw Tel 07889 761759 (South Yorkshire)
top spec with Starcut blades,
004794
KRONE KW7.92 tedder, 8 rotor, 2014, bought new, owner operator, headland offset ram, road lights, good tyres, operators manual, very tidy, excellent condition, always barn stored, will go straight to work. £7,950+VAT. A Clarke Tel 07708 205708 (Norfolk)
KRONE KW5.52/4x7 Tedder £5,950
2020, 5.5m working width, lights, border spreading control
more photos and full spec at www.writtlefarmmachinery.co.uk
07748 004794 01245 442224
OPICO spring tine grass harrow, 2008, in good condition, two new tyres, hardly used. Open to offers. P Causton Tel 01362 858367 (Norfolk)
JOHN Deere X155R, 2015, great little mower with a 20hp Vanguard engine commercial fitted, low hrs 255, drives & cuts perfectly, slight crack in bonnet, ready for work. £2,750 ono. L Robson Tel 07719 561629 (North Yorkshire)
SUFFOLK rotary topper, 2015, 4’ cut, 3 point linkage, fully mounted, 540 rpm PTO, light use, excellent condition. £450 ono no VAT. R Lintott Tel 07799 473374 (Cornwall)
TWOSE 8’ flat roll, excellent condition, paint still on barrel. £1,000+VAT. S White Tel 07867 534064 (Norfolk)
CUB Cadet Z Force ride on mower, 2015, very low hrs 584, powerful Kawasaki engine, recently serviced, 48” deck, runs great with no problems, used to cut paddock monthly, collection preferred but can deliver if req, any questions please call. £3,150. L Robson Tel 07719 561629 (North Yorkshire)
FLEMING FM180 mower, 2024, brand new & unopened, ready to use. £1,500+VAT ono. A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)
3.2m
TEAGLE 9’ shaft driven topper, unused/new condition, stored under cover. £2,950+VAT. S Bygraves Tel 07973 117993 (Cambridgeshire)
AutoPowr 50k, CommandPro, 3 ESCVs, AT ready, G5Plus, PUH, prem light package, hyd IPM £118,500
REF: 11088840
Ex-hire, AutoPowr 50k, air seat, CommandPro, ILS, 5 ESCVs, IPM, warranty to July ‘26 or 3000 hours £210,000
Ex-hire, AutoPowr 50k, air seat, 4 ESCVs, front hitch, 900kg wheel weights, warranty to June ‘28
REF: D1092678
AutoPowr 50k, CommandArm, 3 ESCVs, AT ready, front hitch, warranty to Mar ‘26 or 2250 hours £130,000
REF: 91096431
40k, air con, air seat, 1 front scv, 540/70R24 michelin, very good condition, 2020 model £72,000
REF: D1099758
HillMaster, ProDrive 40K, GS3 2630, 11,000L tank, 7.2m auger, fine cut chopper, LED pack, 730X & trolley £315,000
HillMaster, PBST 30K, G5Plus, 5.6m auger, fine cut chopper, chaff spreader, AT ready, 630F & trolley £255,000
REF: A1100830
AutoPowr 50k, CommandPro, 3 ESCVs, G5Plus, 900kg BPW, PUH, hyd IPM, AT ready, B-post door £98,500
REF: 21088817
Ecospeed 40k smart driving, led lighting, reversing camera, central lubrication system, tilt ram lock £89,000
REF: 21099753
ProDrive 30K, GS4 4600, 24" tracks ActiveYield+, 7.9m auger, PowerCast, 740D & trolley £192,500 Finance available For over 1000 used machinery items please visit Prices are subject to VAT and are correct at time of printing
JOE TURNER EQUIPMENT
GRASS harrow, 12m, in good condition, everything works as it should. £6,000+VAT ono. T Ivey Tel 07702 102014 (Cambridgeshire)
JOE TURNER EQUIPMENT
Specialists in hedging & forestry equipment
See our ad on page 62
BAUER 4" galvanised irrigation pipes, 6m long, 57 available. £40+VAT each. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)
VALIS ewe lambs (2), both pure bred, one registered, one not, both bottle fed, very tame, ready to leave now, contact for more details. £1,000 for both please. S Taylor Tel 07355 075603 (North Yorkshire)
BUTLEY Herefords, registered pedigree bulls & females, quiet & easily handled, all bulls halter trained & guaranteed under Hereford Society rules, TB4 area. www.butleyherefords.co.uk. DC Smith & Sons Tel 07971 694912/07885 594143 (Suffolk)
SEAFIELD PEDIGREES
TWOSE TF500, 5m reach, cable controls, T flails, barn stored, straight machine, no welds. £4,750+VAT. H Taylor & Sons Tel 07985 655527 (Norfolk)
2022, 5.2m working width, barely used £5,350 more photos and full spec at www.writtlefarmmachinery.co.uk
LELY Splendimo 280 mower conditioner, good order & well maintained, used mainly for hay on family farm, Herts/Bucks border. £3,400. K Slade Tel 07710 420833 (Hertfordshire)
HEDGING & FORESTRY
MCCONNEL saw bench & log splitter, 2 spare saw blades, both good working order, can load them, collection only. £500 ono. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)
DYMAX 3471D5 16" tree shear, unused from new, on 65mm pins for use with 14–16t excavator, for sale on behalf of retired contractor.
£15,000+VAT ono. A Beddall Tel 07836 732200 (Buckinghamshire)
IRRIGATION/ DRAINAGE
NEW polypipe, twin walled, perforated & non perforated, ranging in size from 150 to 600mm, in 6m lengths, Milton Keynes area. C Smith Tel 07831 479966 (Buckinghamshire)
MICHAEL Moore mole plough, frame solid & straight, depth wheels in good order with good bearings, leg worn, paintwork not great but not bad for an early 80s machine, would be easy to refurbish, parts readily available, becoming very rare. £1,450+VAT. A Hazan Tel 07977 773342 (Shropshire)
IRRIGATION pipe fittings, 4", including 45 & 90 degree bends & valve junctions. £410+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)
PERFORATED single layer land drainage pipes, 10cm diameter, 6m length, 7 available for sale, one connector with each pipe, available for collection. £10/pipe. K Cowe Tel 01651 841358 (Aberdeenshire)
LIVESTOCK
Get ready for the first digital end-to-end solution built for the industry to safeguard their livestock, Livestock Protect.
2-YEAR OLD beautiful pure bred Spitti ewe for sale, not registered, very tame, can leave straight away, contact me for more information.
£1,500. S Taylor Tel 07355 075603 (North Yorkshire)
ABERDEEN Angus pedigree bull, 29mths, ready to work, fertility tested Jan 2025, sire Genus AI. £4,500. M Riches Tel 07484 735412 (Norfolk)
ABERDEEN ANGUS BULLS
Ready to work
Delivered direct to your farm
Very quiet, easy calving
females available
Health monitored Closed herd
Full pedigree with each animal
Red tractor approved
Semen Also Available
TEL: 07715 764 351
PEDIGREE polled Hereford bulls, quality bulls ready for work, 14–19 months old, one 2yr old, good pedigrees, shape, quiet temperament, easy calving, HiHealth, BVD tested & IBR vaccinated, delivery available, TB tested Jan 25, TB4. £3,500. J Speirs Tel 07979 463480 (Bedfordshire)
ABERDEEN Angus bulls for sale from the Park Wall herd, near Bury St Edmunds, 15months–3yrs old available, Johnes Level 1, BVD Accredited, TB4. J Musk Tel 07748 850465/01638 724831 (Suffolk)
BELTED Galloway herd (all pedigree) for sale, Red & Black Belted Galloways with good pedigrees, Health scheme, TB4, nice quiet, well handled cattle, genuine reason for sale, viewing Pakenham & Woodbridge. J Perkins Tel 07768 008880 (Suffolk)
RED Belted Galloway bull, pedigree, TB4, Health scheme, good belt, was used by another High Health breeder last winter, viewing recommended. £2,500. J Perkins Tel 07768 008880 (Suffolk)
ANGLO NUBIAN x French Alpine milking/pet kids, 7 available (4 girls 3 wethers), High Health herd & parents all up to date with vaccs & worming.
E Bunting Tel 07889 640199 (Essex)
BELTED Galloway pedigree heifers (3), two years old, well grown. £4,500 ono. J Lee Tel 07967 810191/01636 830318 (Nottinghamshire)
2025 Pygmy kids ready to order, our nannies are producing top quality beautifully marked & coloured kids, care notes supplied, vacc’d, wormed & hoof trimmed, microchips & double tags. E Bunting Tel 07889 640199 (Essex)
PEDIGREE Aberdeen Angus bulls, choice of 4, all homebred to pedigree, fully registered with some top breeding in their pedigrees, TB4 area, closed herd, previously fully accredited health scheme, no history on any disease. £2,000. D Bradbury Tel 07758 819761 (West Sussex)
BREEDING pair of geese, gander & goose both 6yrs old, to be collected. Free to good home. V Simson Tel 07809 253542 (Somerset)
POLLED Simmental bull, 2yrs old, pure Heathbrow bloodlines, docile, long tall modern, excellent legs & feet, sold for export but due to BT cannot be transported so now for sale, Hi Health & TB4, reasonably priced. D Sapsed Tel 07836 782184 (Hertfordshire)
CASE
2021 Case Optum 300 CVX, 2135hrs, GPS ready, front linkage + SCV 900 tyres, 5 spool valves .........................................................£117,000
Case Quantum 110N, 2232hrs,40kph, front linkage & PTO, electric hydraulics, 4 rear electric spool valves, 3 mid mount spool valves, front tyres 280/70x16 75%, rear tyres 360/70x28 75%, immaculate ................................. £34,000
2022 Case Puma 165 Powershift, 2400hrs, 50kph, front linkage, 60% Tyres ....................... £64,000
JOHN DEERE
2013 John Deere 5080GV, 1357hrs, a/c, manual shuttle, front tyres 240/70x16 60%, rear tyres 340/85x24 75%, tidy little tractor..........£21,000
2013 John Deere 6230, 6194hrs, front weights, front tyres 500/60x22 Mitas 25%, rear tyres 600/65x34 Nokian 80%, apart from rust on wheels, very tidy ..................................£25,000
MASSEY FERGUSON
2016 Massey Ferguson 7720, 7967hrs, front linkage, 2 front hydraulic services, hydraulic top link, Datavision, air brakes, Power Beyond, front tyres 480/70x30 25%, rear tyres 480/80x46 80% £38,500
FENDT
2019 Fendt 939 Prof Plus, 7950hrs, 2 front hyd services, front PTO, full trimble RTK guidance, 6 rear spool valves, hyd top link, full LED lighting, evolution seat, vario grip, front tyres 600/70x34 40%, rear tyres 710/75x42 45%, all original tyres, needs paint on edge of wheel rims as it has been ftted with dual wheels..£102,000
2019 Kubota M105GX-IV with Chilton loader, 5075hrs, front tyres 380/70x24 40%, rear tyres 520/70x24 40%, everything is working, tidy little tractor .................................................£31,500
FOR BREAKING
New Holland T6.175 ftted with brand new dynamic command gearbox and a New Holland T6.160, the tractors have done a maximum of 2000hrs, ALL PARTS AVAILABLE
COMING IN
2020 New Holland T6.180 Dynamic Command, 3500hrs, complete with Quicke Loader.......POA
2018 Valtra T174 Versu, full spec ........................POA
2016 Valtra T234 Versu, 7500hrs, original tyres ..POA
2016 Massey Ferguson 7720 Dyna, good spec, high hrs, very tidy..............................................POA
2010 New Holland T7040 Auto Command, 12,000hrs, 50% tyres, very tidy for age..................£26,500
2019 Valtra N134 c/w loader
2019 New Holland T7.210
2019 Case Farmall 95C with loader
2008 Case 155
2005 Valtra T170
2019 Kubota M105GX-IV with Chilton Loader 5075hrs
2017 Deutz 5090G 1610hrs on grass tyres
2019 Fendt 939 Prof Plus 7950 hrs
2013 John Deere 6230 6194 hrs 2013
LIMOUSIN bulls, polled, Black & Red, Elite Health, TB4 semen tested, 2yrs old, ready to work, Bonshaw herd, Colchester. Heifers & cows with calves also available. D Kinloch Tel 07748 786073/07718 786218 (Essex)
Leicestershire LE13 1JY
Scalford
SEXED layer chicks for sale, aged 2 weeks old laying hens & upwards, call for more information. £8. J Bright Tel 07429 243858 (Hertfordshire)
GLOUCESTERSHIRE Old Spot X Duroc breeding boars & gilts, store pigs also available. J Sowter Tel 07561 637615 (Derbyshire)
PEDIGREE Aberdeen Angus heifer fully pedigree registered, just the one available as all the others were bulls last year, halter broken with a calm nature, disease free herd in TB4.area, some top breeding in her pedigree. £1,250. D Bradbury Tel 07758 819761 (West Sussex)
Get in touch to discover how ABN can be a part of your journey
ABERDEEN Angus bulls, top blood lines, Elite Health, TB4, semen tested, ready to work, choice of 4, 2–3yrs old, Bonshaw Pedigree Angus Colchester. D Kinloch Tel 07748 786073/07718 786218 (Essex)
LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT
BRINSEA incubator, c/w user instructions. R Daniels Tel 01502 677238/07881 920670 (Suffolk)
GALEBREAKERS (2) still boxed, 4m x 1.5m, never used, fitting instructions included, may sell separately. £1,000 ono. J Pearson Tel 01283 732275 (Derbyshire)
JOHN Taylor cattle crush, medium size with boarded bottom, ideal for young stock & native breeds, head yoke works OK. £300. P Marshall Tel 07879 492306 (Lincolnshire)
CATTLE gates/handling barriers (8), 10' long x 5' high, 6 bar that all interlock for handling cattle, in good little used condition, all straight with 6 pins. £1,200. P Marshall Tel 07879 492306 (Lincolnshire)
MOULTON yard scraper, no trouble, will do a lot more! £180. T Fountain Tel 07725 844740/07851 732471/01889 590282 (Derbyshire)
KVERNELAND 864 straw/silage feeder/blower, swivel chute, elec controls, 2018/19, very little use, in excellent condition, road lights, mud guards, wide angle PTO & big bale kit, many more photos available, always barn stored. £11,000+VAT ono. C Jones Tel 07818 600062 (Northamptonshire)
TEAGLE Tomahawk 4000 silage/ straw round bale shredder, 1995, good condition. £1,250 ono. T Lea Tel 07887 722532 (Warwickshire)
EIGHT 20' metal feed barriers, plus two k20' hay racks with feed trough below. G Enderby Tel 07768 841908 (Lincolnshire)
BULK FEEDERS UK
BLUE Wydale 5 teat calf feeders, as new condition, could do with 5 new teats. £150; also Blue Wydale 5 teat calf feeder missing a valve, well used. £100. A Kerfoot Tel 07539 933777 (Lincolnshire)
SECOND HAND FEED BINS
NATIONWIDE DELIVERY
07970 740568 www.bulkfeedsystems.co.uk
RITCHIE mobile cattle crush, 2010, full set hurdles & pins, adjustable auto head yoke, fully sheeted sides with full access both sides, 2 sliding gates, f/w tack boxes both sides, tractor hyd lift, road lighting, head scoop, exc cond. £12,750+VAT. C Simpson Tel 07469 186846 (Essex)
RITCHIE cattle crush, weigher, 3 point linkage for movement, foot trimming accessories, very good condition, always kept indoors & maintained. £1,250+VAT. C Simpson Tel 07469 186846 (Essex)
746877 (Gloucestershire)
GEWA calf bottles. £6 each. A Kerfoot Tel 07539 933777 (Lincolnshire) MILK bar 5 teat calf feeder, needs teats. £75; also milk bar 2 teat feeder, needs teats. £55. A Kerfoot Tel 07539 933777 (Lincolnshire)
8T
opening
pipes, etc, excellent condition. £800. R Treen Tel 07879 477172 (Suffolk)
IAE sheep race/shedding kit, 2021, c/w drafting/stop gate, lift guillotine gate, 6 rail sliding gate, small sheeted hurdle, 4 long sheeted hurdles, two sheeted arches, two rail hurdles with coupling rods, exc cond, available for collection. £2,000. K Cowe Tel 01651 841358 (Aberdeenshire)
SHEEP/CALF feeding troughs (6), galvanised with hanging hoops, dimensions basin width 28cm, depth 14cm, length 61cm (2'), available for collection. £20 each. K Cowe Tel 01651 841358 (Aberdeenshire)
FULL animal bedding cardboard shredding system, including Intimus 16.85 shredder, feed conveyor, trommel, weighing conveyor, auto baler c/w PLC, 5 bag dust extraction system, all items 415v, approx 30 gal hyd oil, bale bags good cond. £35,000 ono. J Clayton Tel 07840 104855 (Lincolnshire)
MACHINERY
WACKER 2540A reversing compactor plate, 40x50cm plate, new Honda petrol engine with less than 20hrs work, can be seen working, professional machine, not a lightweight DIY unit, vgc. £1,750 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
ROXELL
bin,
lid, blower
PORTAQUIP calf creep feeders (2), 4yrs old, as new condition. £1,500 the pair. A Mottram Tel 07970 595046 (Lincolnshire)
DIESEL engine & concrete vibrating poker, single cylinder, not running at the moment, needs TLC. £100+VAT. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (Derbyshire)
MACHINERY (cont)
SHOTBLASTING gun c/w 20kg of shotblasting grit. £50. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire) FLAME thrower weed killer in weathered condition. £20. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire)
CHERRY Products straw pusher, manual folding, 4.15m working width, 2.5m folded width, JCB Q-fit brackets, could be easily modified to make a silage fork/buck rake. £1,500+VAT ono. T Pick Tel 07922 730260 (Oxfordshire)
CONCRETE mixer, Petter diesel engine, old but in perfect working order, had little use. £200. I Ollerenshaw Tel 07889 761759 (South Yorkshire) MATERIALS
x 3'
Engineering Ltd forklift
x 4'7" deep, two
acting hydraulic cylinders,
condition, hardly used. £2,750. W Parsons Tel 07734 949482 (Cambridgeshire)
WATVEARE FL1500 3 point linkage tractor forklift. £400+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
MX/CHILTON headstock, surplus to requirements as upgraded to euro. £150 ono. M Davey Tel 07702 580669 (Suffolk)
ALBUTT 5' muck fork, Chilton MX bolt on brackets, used for round bales, no wear. £450. M Davey Tel 07702 580669 (Suffolk)
JCB 538-60 Agri Xtra, 2021, 2239hrs but will be around 2300 at time of sale, sold with manu’s warranty to 3000hrs or end Nov 26, Manitou headstock/ twin rear spools/hitch camera, available mid/end May depending on replacement. £62,950+VAT. L Harris Tel 07792 376789 (Worcestershire)
FOOD-GRADE conveyor for potatoes, etc, 8.8m x 45cm wide, newish belt with ridges, working until a couple of months ago. £1,000+VAT. R Rayner Tel 07808 066655 (Cambridgeshire)
VOLVO general purpose bucket, very strong, done very little work, Volvo Q-fit brackets, 3cu/m. £3,000+VAT. J Arnold Tel 07504 495091 (Nottinghamshire)
JCB 560-80 Agri Super Loadall, 6T to 8m, very tidy machine, 2019, 4700hrs, dealer maintained, air con, hydraulic Q fit, rear tow bar, tyres 25%, very good condition throughout, £54,500+VAT ono. C Corbett Tel 07879 444473 (Warwickshire) JCB TM320S, 2023, 3300hrs very tidy, full service history,
& cone headstock. £71,000+VAT ono. M Thompson Tel 01622 843133/07957 339061 (Kent)
2915hrs, New Hyd Q Fit head & pallet tines, air con,
MANITOU 627 telescopic loader, 2005, 3500hrs, excellent condition, pin & cone headstock, air conditioning, pick up hitch with hydraulic loading. £25,000+VAT. S White Tel 07867 534064 (Buckinghamshire)
right hand offset, wide angle PTO
SUTON EHDG 2.3 metre power grab, c/w Claas Scorpion brackets..................................................£3,000
VICON Vari Spreader 503H, hydraulic on/off, parking wheels
Used Machinery
CLAAS Axion 850 CMatic CIS+, 2019, 256hp, front linkage 50kph £56,000 CLAAS Arion 650 Cebis 2016 (66) 185hp, 50kph Hexashift transmission 5950hrs, Proactive front axle, front linkage, good condition £55,000
POTTINGER 6m power harrow, 2017, good condition
SPEARHEAD Orbital 726T reach mower, 2017, wheel kit £16,250
Shelbourne Reynolds Mentor Rape/ Borage Swather 1997, 3109hrs, 16’ header, two x transport trailers, good mechanics and canvases
KRM Maximulch Trailed Folding Cultivator 2015,
Kuhn HR 4030 Rigid Power Harrow 2018, new tines, 320hp gearbox, hydraulic clod board & packer, top spec and immaculate
He-Va Combi-Disc Trailed Cultivator / Seeder 2018, extra leading discs, auto reset legs, factory tted seeder, hardly used and immaculate
Western Fast Tow Bunded Diesel Bowser 2021, 985L, manual pump, choice of four other bowsers
Bailey 14T Construction Dump Trailer 2016, sprung drawbar, air/hyd brakes, 445/65 x 22.5 tyres 100%, straight and tidy
Tractor Rear Flotation Wheels Trelleborg TM 900 High Power Radial, 900/60 R42 98% tread, 10 stud, suits most 300hp to 400hp tractors
Simba / Great Plains Hyd Folding Unipresses choice of 4.6 / 5.5 / 6.1 / 6.6m, excellent metal and condition
Krone EasyCut Triple Mowers 2021 front F320CV with steel tine conditioners, rear 8870CV with steel tine conditioners & electric/hyd controls, 700 ha from new, would split, demo condition
MUCK & SLURRY
AS Marston 8.5T side spreader, 2 axle model. £2,250. V Smith Tel 07876 770545 (Warwickshire)
BARTON muck fork, sie 39.75 wide, 8 tunes, in good order, trip type. £325. V Smith Tel 07876 770545 (Warwickshire)
DODA L27 slurry chopper pump, 2020, only used six times, excellent condition, stored indoors.
£3,850+VAT ono. S Hoyland Tel 07734 194180 (Nottinghamshire)
www.commandpestcontrol.co.uk
LEMKEN Opal 120 4+1 reversible plough with transport wheel, good breast metal, now surplus to requirements. £600 no VAT. R Smith Tel 07748 682081/01206 251526 (Essex)
LEMKEN DL120 4 furrow reversible plough, very good used condition with good metal, some new metal also available. £3,000. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)
BAMFORD/KVERNELAND 3 furrow 12” plough, complete & free, good condition for age, needs a good sanding. £350. H Jones Tel 01874 636350 (Powys)
KVERNELAND LB85 6 furrow, hydraulic variwidth, good metal with £900 worth of spares.
£6,000+VAT ono. J Mount Tel 07879 695096 (Leicestershire)
KUHN Varimaster 5 furrow, 2008, hydraulic auto reset, ZXL skimmers, HP64 D wide bodies, hydraulic offset, depth wheel 690, press arm with hydraulic release, hydraulic front furrow adjustment.
£11,495+VAT ono. L Geer Tel 07545 053667 (Cambridgeshire)
CLAYDON Furrow Cracker, off 5f Lemken plough, bought as one at farm sale & Furrow Cracker not needed, last used Autumn 2023, good condition. £500+VAT ono. S Martin Tel 07866 963752 (Suffolk)
KVERNELAND LS240 5f plough, 2019, knock on points, No30 slatted bodies, hyd variwidth, hyd f/furrow, memory turnover ram, wide wheel, good under body & point to point clearance, had very little use, plenty of spares.
£16,500+VAT ono. P Mahony Tel 07909 903391 (Suffolk)
DOWDESWELL MA145.7 furrow on land/in furrow, good metal.
£3,750+VAT ono. A Wright Tel 07788 393720 (Lincolnshire)
LEMKEN Europal8 parts, half price.
£250+VAT ono. R McCheyne Tel 07973 408233 (Essex)
POTATO EQUIPMENT
2013 CTM Harpley Engineering Rockstar, full working order, used for planting this season, sale due to giving up growing potatoes.
£3,500+VAT ono. S Laslett Tel 07764 291738 (Kent)
WIFO 1t box rotator, with new centre bush, resealed turnover ram, new micro speed valve, 2 pallet forks, top & side arms, JCB brackets. £2,500+VAT ex farm. F Milk Tel 07775 741720 (Norfolk)
SCANSTONE 2012 5 webber, good condition, many spares. D Roe Tel 07904 389351 (Lincolnshire)
3 row disc ridger c/w finger tine weeders. £680+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)
GCWBX2400
Kemper Grass
SCREENS
RUBBER GRADING SCREENS
PERFORATED RUBBER WASHER BELTS
Tel: 028 9127 5913
Email: info@agri-web.co.uk
REEKIE 41535 destoner, 2008, 3 web with stone box, good condition, used this year for 80 acres of potatoes. £7,500. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (South Yorkshire)
GRIMME Combistar, been on the same farm since new, good stars & webs, ready for work, not used for last 4yrs, hence sale. £3,500+VAT ono. A Cade Tel 07769 976968 (Cambridgeshire)
Dealers
THREE Edlington bearing housings, F213. S Bartle Tel 07884 238552 (Nottinghamshire)
FIFTEEN new washers to tighten rings on Cambridge rolls; also four new bearings to suit Edlington Cambridge rolls, UC311-32. BC-1404 stamped on them, plus 2 used ones. S Bartle Tel 07884 238552 (Nottinghamshire)
ELECTRIC motor, 4hp, single phase, hardly used. £120 no VAT. R James Tel 01263 837569 (Norfolk)
GENUINE Kuhn tine, Quick fit 2, I have 2 sets for 3.5m power harrow, good condition. £10.95 each ono. H Blackwell Tel 07525 746062 (Essex)
FLAILS
DIRECT .CO.UK
QUALITY FLAILS
To suit most flail mowers and hedge cutters at competitive prices
Tel: 01427 718561
Fax: 01427 718016
E-mail: sales@flailsdirect.co.uk
Website: www.flailsdirect.co.uk
HOUSEHAM Merlin 2013 sprayer, 5000L tank, 32/24/12m boom, Trimble RTK steering & section control, auto boom height control, quad nozzles, 2 sets of tyres. £59,000. S Bartle Tel 07884 238552 (Nottinghamshire)
BATEMAN RB16, 52 plate, 9117hrs, working order, only selling due to upgrade, 24m contour boom, 3000L, single line, triple nozzles, 280L/min AR pump, new April 2024, 700 flotations, 320 rowcrops, viewing welcome, can be seen. £15,000+VAT ono. H Beeby Tel 07548 923940 (Lincolnshire)
CHAFER Sentry 5000L, 2007, 1 year MOT, 32m boom, section control & auto rate control box, steering axle, air brakes, in working order. £9,000+VAT. J Arnold Tel 07504 495091 (Nottinghamshire)
Lincs
Used commercial from vans to tractor units
Always a large stock of 7.5 ton tippers, flats, boxes, etc
Box bodies for storage from 10ft to 40ft, also containers, artic trailers, flats, step frame boxes and fridges
Axle wheels, tyres, springs, rams, power packs, engines, etc
Also flail mowers for tractors and excavators from 15 to 200HP (Flails Direct is a division of Engineering and Hire Ltd)
SPRAYERS
2008 Househam Air Ride 4000, GPS 5 section shut off, s/steel tank, f/w latest Househam screen, 30m boom could potentially cut down to 24m, approx 7000hrs (data lost when new screen fitted), call for more info. £24,750+VAT. L Chapman Tel 07775 726937 (Norfolk)
Artic back end 5th wheel bogies and tipping bodies
Please phone with your requirements and weʼll try to help
RAU 1000L 18m mounted sprayer, recent new valve blocks, boom getting a bit tired. £1,500. I Pyatt Tel 07971 189537 (Staffordshire)
Sprayer Specialists in the Eastern & Southern Counties
Crop & Amenity Sprayer Specialist 47-108297
Sprayer Specialist in the Eastern & Southern Counties New and used sprayers and parts stocked for: Berthoud • Househam Chafer • Agrifac and most other makes
AMAZONE UF2002 sprayer with FT1502, 2019, 30m, individual nozzle auto shut off, 4 sensor self levelling, 3500L capacity, immaculate condition, never seen liquid fertiliser. £45,000+VAT ono. J Farmer Tel 07973 817272 (Leicestershire)
TECHNOMA Fortis 24m, 2006, 24m, 3000L, for spares or repair. £650+VAT ono. S Hoyland Tel 07734 194180 (Nottinghamshire)
only for sale as upgraded to larger one, brilliant bit of kit. £3,750+VAT ono. A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)
KRM M2W Plus fertiliser spinner, 2013, holds 4 x 600kg bags, weigh cells, section control, 24 to 36m vanes, road lights, access ladder, hopper cover, excellent condition, no rust, very accurate, always washed down & oiled, barn stored.
£5,950+VAT. A Clarke Tel 07708 205708 (Norfolk)
AGRICULTURAL SPRAYERS SALES SERVICE SPARES
TEAGLE XT 20, very tidy fertiliser spreader, only done 2 seasons, ideal for smaller tractor, will hold one bulk bag of fertiliser.
£500+VAT ono. P Carthy Tel 07541 12175 (Staffordshire)
KNIGHT Trailblazer, 2014, 3600L, 32m tri fold, contour booms, 12/24/32m (extendable to 36m), GPS auto shut off, GPS receiver on sprayer, triple nozzle bodies, rear axle steering, sold on 750 flotation tyres, owned from new, vgc. £32,500+VAT. J Brocksopp Tel 07890 567794 (South Yorkshire)
SPREADERS
LELY fertiliser spreader, for spares. £500+VAT. L Fincham Tel 07827 013267 (Suffolk)
LELY Centerliner Supabowl 24 twin disc broadcaster, good condition.
£1,500+VAT. L Fincham Tel 07827 013267 (Suffolk)
KRM EX Trend fertiliser spinner, holds 4 bags, selection of discs & spares, running gear & discs good, but has corrosion in the hopper, sold for spares or repair, can send pictures via WhatsApp. £200. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)
AMAZONE ZA-M Compact fertiliser spreader, good working order, always dry stored & oiled after use. £450+VAT ono. J Lough Tel 07757 792262 (Northumberland)
AVACAST Avadex 200gr spreader, 2022, Honda engine, on 3PL, used in front on roll tractor, all round excellent condition. R Padfield Tel 07802 842992 (Essex)
STOCKS slug pellet applicator, 24m spread, in very good condition, fitted to a Cat 1 frame, done less than 30 acres from new. £350+VAT. D Munro Tel 07913 785927 (Essex) STRAW &
01603 870903 07860 475964 (Wessex) LTD
WHEAT & BARLEY STRAW
SWATH WANTED
NEW HOLLAND BOOMER 40 4WD c/w MX C4 loader 2020, 2848hrs
NEW HOLLAND T4.65 c/w MX U304 loader 2017, 1089hrs
MF 8S.305
2022, 2400hrs, Dyna VT Exclusive, front links
MF 7S.190
2023, 2600hrs, Dyna VT, front links & PTO, GPS
MF 7S.180
2023, 1900hrs, Dyna 6, front links & PTO
MF 6S.155
2023, 1300hrs, Dyna 6, 50kph
MF 8740S
2019, 9000hrs, front links & PTO, guidance, 50kph, air brakes
MF 5S.115
2024, 300hrs, Dyna 4, cab suspension
MF 5711M
2022, 500hrs, c/w loader, Dyna 4, 40kph
MF 6613
2017, 3600hrs, c/w loader, Dyna 4, cab suspension
MF 7724
2016, c/w front links & PTO, air brakes
MF 7726
2017, 5600hrs, Dyna VT, front links, 50kph, air brakes, Data 4 screen, multipad
MF 7722S
2020, 4400hrs, Dyna VT Efficient
CLAAS JAGUAR 980 £365,000 2024, 3m pick up, 24 blade cylinder, 710 & 600 tyres, 528/385hrs, 4wd, auto shearbar, auto lube, corn cracker, hyd trailer hitch, additive carrier
CLAAS JAGUAR 950 £235,000 2021, 3m pick up, 24 blade, 680 & 540 tyres, 1500/1200 hrs, 4wd, auto shearbar, auto lube, corn cracker, tyre pressure, Quantimeter, cruise pilot, optifill
CLAAS VOLTO 870 £6,600 2012, 8 rotors, 8.7m working width, hydraulic folding, pivoting headstock, CKL suspension, 6 arms per rotor, good condition
HORSCH AVATAR 6.16 SD £71,500
2021, closed depth wheel, star closing wheel, air brakes on transport axle, twin hopper (60:40 split), seed and fert flow sensors, 710/50-26.5 transport, selective hosing front & rear, bout markers
HORSCH LEEB 6LT 2023, CCS Pro, blow-out, 520 tyres, 36m, air susp, ProPlus, AutoSelect, joystick, ISOBUS, night light £129,950
CLAAS LINER 3600 HH £34,950 2018, 620/40 R22.5 tyres, Claas operator terminal, hydraulic brakes, hyd height adjustment, can be Isobus controlled, load sensing line, 10–12.5m w/w, 4 rotor rake, new curtain
RICHARD WESTERN SF18 HS PLUS £24,300 2022, 560/60 R22.5 flotation tyres, full width arched front window, air brakes & LSV, galvanised mudguards & flaps, high level LED tail lights, hyd tailgate, grain chute, ladder, excellent condition, only used for grain
CLAAS ROLLANT 354RF £11,950
pivoting pick up wheels, roto reverse, 2.1m PU with crop press, bale ejector, auto chain lube, Rollatex net wrapping, roto feed, 15.0/55-17 tyres, road lighting, 26,410 bales, barn stored
knife, QM, TM, air comp, 3D, Cedis, QM, YM, GPS pilot ready, Cemos, CCM, John Deere SolSteer steering unlock code
MOBILE diesel refuelling tank, 430L, 12 volt, 4L/min pump, 4m hose with automatic nozzle, as new condition, hardly used, length 1180mm, width 780mm, height 770mm. £600+VAT. T Walker Tel 07765 113701 (Lincolnshire)
STAINLESS steel 6000L 316 tank & frame, two man holes, £3,995+VAT. N Smith Tel 07798 907927 (Norfolk)
TILLAGE TACKLE
RANSOMES 3 leg subtiller with crumbler roller, now surplus to requirements. £450 no VAT. R Smith Tel 07748 682081/01206 251526 (Essex)
MASCHIO Aquilla 6m folding power harrow, 2018, Rapido quick fit tines, packer roller, in very good condition, gearbox oils recently changed. £18,000+VAT. A Turnbull Tel 07889 117915 (Suffolk)
8800-LITRE bunded fuel tank, excellent condition, with 240V pump & filter. £3,950+VAT ono. D Anker Tel 07796 444987 (Bedfordshire)
GREENCROP fuel & AdBlue hi spd bowser, 12V 80L/m, auto shut off c/w 6m hose, fuel gauge, Indespension axle, over run brakes & parking brake, mudguards, 50mm lockable ball hitch, jockey wheel, integral AdBlue kit, 35L/m 12v. £4,950+VAT ono. R Allan Tel 07786 964728 (Leicestershire)
FIFTY used standard spring tines. £75+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
2015 Cousins HF6M 5m combi harrow, hydraulic fold, flexicoils front & rear, excellent condition. £9,750. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
6-METRE rib rolls, good condition. £3,250. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
10-FOOT pigtail cultivator. £750. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
2013 Great Plains 4m SL, clean order, no repairs, done very little work, new tungsten Terragrip points fitted, Stocks seeder with radar RDS, has low disturbance legs & following harrow also, ready to go for cover crop season. J Ringer Tel 07860 733766 (Norfolk)
MASCHIO Rapido DM4000 power harrow c/w set of spare quick fit points. £6,200+VAT. R Warren Tel 07817 168865 (Essex)
MF23 coil tine cultivator, hydraulic folding, 4.6m, including a selection of points. £1,250+VAT. R Warren Tel 07817 168865 (Essex)
Andrew Guest
e: simon@andrewguest.co.uk www.andrewguest.co.uk
SET of four light seed harrows. £50. D Miles Tel 07789 518924/01379 783216 (Suffolk)
SPRINGTINE cultivator, 3 bar with 19 tines of good quality, Cat 2+3 linkage. £400. G Cole Tel 07765 407357 (Lincolnshire)
CAMBRIDGE rollers, set comprising main roller 7’10” long, two small rollers 9’2” long, total length 17’. £900. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire)
WESSEX rotary cultivator, 1.1m cut, had light use, PTO drive shaft, top link connector & handbook. £800 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk) COUSINS 3m Packa Rolla, leading tines, had little use, barn stored. £2,500+VAT. J Bunning Tel 07931 331953/01945 780344 (Cambridgeshire)
SUMO 3m tine & tyre press, good condition. £1,380+VAT. N Wilson Tel 07547 698793 (Scottish Borders)
COUSINS 4m folding front press, hydraulic folding, light land rings, steering, done very little work since full overhaul, good condition & in good working order. £2,759+VAT ono. D Daniels Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
TRANSPORT wheels, set of 4 for drag/Somerset disc harrows, very heavy, rusty but serviceable. £150. J Berry Tel 07715 231291 (Cheshire)
SIMBA 8m Toptilth cultivator, in excellent order & ready to go to work, always oiled & stored in shed after use, probably the best Toptilth available atm, Hartwell Northants. £8,000+VAT. P Weston Tel 07947 923844 (Northamptonshire)
McCONNEL Shakaerator, 2.5m, good metal with recent new legs, rear link arms but no ram or PTO shaft for shaker. £2,350+VAT. M Woodhead Tel 07759 849850 (Northamptonshire)
RABE MKE 400 4m power harrow, new tines fitted, good working order, no leaks, genuine reason for sale. £2,000+VAT. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
Well proven design
Single and twin and three legged machines available
Mounted and trailed
MAIDWELL MOLER
TELEPHONE: 01604 686216
MOBILE: 07973 265378
ENGINEERING
www.maidwellmoler.co.uk
GALUCHO 3.6m hyd folding double press with leading tines, good working order, genuine reason for sale.
£2,000+VAT. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
COUSINS Contour rolls, 15.3m, breaker rings. £15,000+VAT. E Robinson Tel 07836 258356 (Essex)
FARMFORCE 4m wide press with hyd lift rear wheels, good condition, can load onto lorry, had for many years, selling due to purchase of larger discs.
£580+VAT. R Littleworth Tel 07944 640696 (Lincolnshire)
£35,000+VAT. M Willemsen Tel 07723 309950 (Suffolk)
the USA. Undercarriage wheels also to fit most models.
Surplus spare parts for Agco Challenger MT700/MT800 Series.
CAT Challenger 865 rubber track, 2005, replaced with a new set recently, one track available, used condition, loading available. £2,500+VAT ono. L Bradfield Tel 07881 103758 (Suffolk)
TRACTORS
CONCEPT 4m SpeedTill.
£1,700+VAT. P Freeman Tel 07711 145124 (Lincolnshire)
TWO-LEG subsoiler. £350+VAT. P Freeman Tel 07711 145124 (Lincolnshire)
CAMBRIDGE rolls, set comprising main roller 8’, two small rollers 6’, total length approx 19–20’. £850+VAT ono. P Chamberlain Tel 07730 920884 (Bedfordshire)
VADERSTAD Carrier CR650, 2020 model, cross cutter discs, straw rake, very good condition & been looked after, priced to sell (seeder unit not included). £34,500+VAT ono. B Savidge Tel 07584 487914 (Herefordshire)
2012 Case IH Maxxum 110 4wd, 6730hrs, 40kph top speed, excellent condition, new tyres all round, 4.5 l 16 valve FPT engine provides 112hp. £25,750. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
2012 New Holland T7.200 Auto Command 50K, 5550hrs, 4 spools, air brakes, GPS ready, front linkage. £42,500+VAT. S Bartle Tel 07884 238552 (Nottinghamshire)
NEW Holland T7.225 Auto Command CVT, 2018, 50kph + air, Terra-glide active susp f/axle, 4 r/remote valves, 160L/min hyd pump, f/3pt linkage, 8 LED w/ lights, Isobus, auto-guidance to RTK, Intelliview IV, 16.9R30 + 20.8R42 Michelins. £67000+VAT. P Hirst Tel 07712 676012 (Lincolnshire)
DAVID BROWN 996, 1976 model, runs perfectly well, rough around the edges but does everything it should, c/w loader which is now connected & has bucket & forks, great machine. £4,500 ono. W Murfet Tel 07925 402141 (Cambridgeshire)
2011 John Deere 6930P, 10370hrs, serviced & ready to go, nice spec tractor, 50K Autopower Command Arm, front linkage. £37,500+VAT. J Woodward Tel 07960 866025 (Leicestershire)
SPAREX hyd pump for Case 475, S57798, done 8hrs, vgc, fits many Case models, OEM No 308873A1GV, 308873A1, 66513C91, 93835C91, 93835C92, 84530183, 84332710, 84573150, 406827R91, 327987A1, 128180C91, 327988A1, 406763R92, 110509C91, etc. £100+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
JOHN DEERE offside rear plastic fender, black plastic, to fit many
John Deere tractors 20/30, etc, check part no L200787, c/w all fixings, new & unused. £150+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
JOHN Deere 8370R, 2017, 4000hrs, 50K Autopower, full set wheel weights, leather seats, cab fridge, screen is unlocked for variable rate applications, been on 5yrs Powergard warranty, excellent condition. £129,000+VAT. H Evans Tel 07985 332061 (Warwickshire)
EIGHT Massey Ferguson tractor front weights, collection only. £400. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)
BALE trailer, 28’6” with 2’6” extension, good tidy, lights, hydraulic brakes, handbrake, super singles all round, steel floor, tie down hooks, ready to go straight to work. £3,250+VAT. G Ryman Tel 07714 956920 (Oxfordshire)
MASSEY Ferguson 8740s, Exclusive spec, 2022, 2824hrs still in use, 4800hr warranty, tyres 75%, air brakes, 50K, GPS ready, option to buy RTK GPS, good condition. £118,000+VAT ono. L Geer Tel 07545 053667 (Essex)
1967 Ford 3000 Pre Force tractor with Massey Ferguson trailer, power steering, original tax book, selling as pair with trailer, would be a good project for someone with time, fair condition, call or text for more info after 7pm only please. £3,500. S Okane Tel 07546 963661 (County Tyrone)
BIG Pack-style McCormick wafer weights, 16 x 50kg wafers, never used, 800kg in total, shop soiled condition. £600. J Murrell Tel 07770 692891/01603 712222 (Norfolk)
FENDT 1800kg Big Pack weight, c/w drawbar bracket, vgc. £2,500. J Murrell Tel 07770 692891/01603 712222 (Norfolk)
CAT Challenger 765D, 2013, 4870hrs, Trimble GPS system, 4SCVs, 30” tracks, excellent condition. £76,000+VAT. M Willemsen Tel 07723 309950 (Suffolk)
2013 Claas Arion 620, 7000hrs, 50K, air brakes, front suspension, cab suspension, 4 speed PTO, Quicke loader brackets with LCS joystick, 650/65R38 80%, 540/65R28 80%, genuine reason for sale. £30,000+VAT. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
CLAAS Arion front weights, 2010, full set of 14, 12 x 50kg & 2 x 52kg, weighing 704kg in total, excellent condition. £600+VAT. M Fleming Tel 07881 913725 (Lincolnshire)
TRAILERS
£36,000
40k Power Quad, radar, Green star ready, TLS, fully serviced, very
MOBILE loo trailer, mains connected on single axle, c/w in Ladies 3 WCs & wash basin, in Gents 1 WC & stainless steel urinal trough 3/4 gents wide plus wash basin, on 50mm towing hitch, brakes, lights, pictures on request. Sensible offers. M Talbot Tel 07946 442168 (Cambridgeshire) WELFARE trailer, 4.8m by 2.2m, kitchen with sink in front section, shower cubicle in middle section, powered calor gas boiler, on 50ml towing hitch, brakes, lights. M Talbot Tel 07946 442168 (Cambridgeshire)
BRIAN LEGG 6T trailer, nearly new tyres, good chassis, good tipping ram, needs new metalwork on the buck, no tailgate. £350+VAT ono. H Standley Tel 07778 682909 (Suffolk) 30-FOOT artic trailer with double spring dolly. £1,300+VAT ono. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
40-FOOT artic trailer, c/w dolly on steel springs, air & oil brakes, new lights. £1,750+VAT ono. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
81092169 Kramer KT447 2018, 3290hrs, Hydro, 40K, boom suspension, Kramer headstock, pallet tines, 3rd service depressure button, PUH, rear hyd brakes +SCV, air seat, air
11092449 John Deere 7R 310 2021, 1595hrs, Premium Edition, AutoPowr CommandPro, 50K, AutoTrac Ready with integrated SF6000 receiver, Activations, TLS, active air seat, A/C, 6ESCV, PUH, 227 L/min
41088221 John Deere 6R 215 2023, 635hrs, AutoPowr, 50K, AutoTrac ready, activations, TLS, HCS, A/C, air seat, electric mirrors, 155L/min hyd pump, 4ESCV, PUH, air/hyd brakes,
41083738 John Deere 6175R 2017, 5160hrs, Premium Edition, AutoQuad Plus, 50K, ISOBUSand Green Star ready (no Activation), TLS, HCS, air seat, A/C, 3ESV, 114L min hyd £64,950
71086205 John Deere 7230R 2017, 6690hrs, Premium Edition, E23, 40K, AutoTrac Ready, front suspension, air seat, A/C, PUH, 4ESCV, hyd brakes, 480/70R34 520/85R46, inner and outer rear wheel £59,950
155L/min pump, 3ESCV, Front £117,950
71083670 John Deere 6175R
2016, 8000hrs, Ultimate Edition, AutoPowr, 50K, AutoTrac Ready, Activations, TLS, HCS, Premium air seat, A/C, 4ESCV with joy stick controls, £56,750
2021, 1990hrs, AutoQuad, 40K, TLS, HCS, air seat, A/C, 3SCV, PUH, 114L/ min hyd pump, loader brackets, hyd brakes, panorama window, 480/64R24 £69,950
11089872 John Deere S780i HM 2020, 486 drum hrs, 690 engine hrs, HillMaster, 40K, ProDrive, AutoTrac Ready (no dome), Active Terrain Adjust, air seat, A/C, chopper chaff spreader,
71087658 John Deere T670i
2023, 202 drum hrs, 313hrs engine hrs, 40K, ProDrive, Premium Cab, AutoTrac Ready (no dome), 2630 screen, side hill performance package, yield monitor £259,950
HOOKLIFT gear with electric controller, came off 20T lorry, very good condition. £1,250+VAT ono. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
IFOR Williams 126 trailer flatbed trailer, c/w full length ramp & sides, LED lights, spare wheel & Datatagged. £2,500+VAT. C Fox Tel 07748 883963 (Buckinghamshire)
FOUR-WHEEL trailer, swan neck, 7’6” wide by 15’ on the deck & 5’3” on the neck, needs new floor & lights need rewiring. £300+VAT ono. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
TRAILER. Wheatley 3 tonne trailer. No ram. £500+VAT. S White Tel 07899 851787 (Buckinghamshire)
FIFTH wheel dolly, very strong, 9 leaf spring, 45” high, 8’3” from towing pin to ring, very good condition. £1,000+VAT ono. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
BUNNING 8t trailer, high lift, tandem axle, good working order. £2,500. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)
SMALL wooden trailer with tarpaulin hooped roof, Indespension wheel axles, 155-R12/8PR tyres with spare, wooden ramp, lights, no brakes, in good condition, max height 1.84m, width 1.57m, total length 4.4m, box length 3.1m. £375+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
BRIAN LEGG hydraulic tractor tipping trailer, f/w 4.5T buck, needs some work, plus tyres are poor as has not been used for a few years. £450. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)
MARSHALL 8T grain trailer with manual tailgate & chute, excellent condition for age & only been used for grain, has had short wooden side extensions fitted but these can easily be removed, tyres OK & rams weep a little. £3,200. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)
STEWART GX 15FT flat trailer, 28’, floatation tyres, air brakes, hardwood floor, as new condition. £14,500+VAT ono. J Mount Tel 07879 695096 (Leicestershire)
3t hydraulic tipping trailer, good floor, may need new sides, handbrake towering & jaws. £300 ono no
MASSEY
WARWICK 10t tipping trailer, manufactured May 2023, unused as new, 10 stud axles. £9,750+VAT. S Bygraves Tel 07973 117993 (Cambridgeshire)
LARRINGTON 14T grain trailer, spr/d/bar, hyd tailgate c/w grain chute, 1 centre mtd fast tip ram, full width f/window, roll over sheet, high & low level LED lights with flashing r/beacon, mint condition, only had grain in, barn stored.
£15,000+VAT. J Murrell Tel 07770 692891/01603 712222 (Norfolk)
BAILEY 14T grain trailer, 1997, c/w hydraulic tailgate, sprung drawbar, flotation tyres 560/45R22.5, hydraulic brakes, new rollover sheet, grain chute, good condition. £6,500+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)
40-FOOT step frame low loader, tri axle on steel springs, hyd ramp, plated to 32t. £2,500. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
BALE trailer, approx 28’ long with dolly, needs reboarding & brakes sorting, hand brake works, poor condition. £350. D Anker Tel 07796 444987 (Bedfordshire)
BUNNING 12t grain trailer, rear chute, pull over sheet, solid floor & sides, straight panels, lights & brakes work, manual tailgate. £3,500+VAT. B Harding Tel 07850 917734 (Suffolk)
DRAWBAR curtainside trailer, 9t Mercedes axles, air brakes, ideal for transport of seed/fertiliser.
£4,750+VAT. P Wheeler Tel 01452 223322 (Gloucestershire) TYRES & WHEELS
•Specialised Wheel
•Floatation
•Rowcrop
•Stock
£22,000 R/O Sheet, 560 Flotations, LED lights, Top Spec New JPM
PAIR of Taurus 650/75/32 tyres. £666+VAT ono. J Powell Tel 07790 516976 (Gloucestershire)
18.4-30TR-135 BKT 12ply tyre, very good condition, used on combine only. £150+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
ROWCROPS (2) 8.3-44 tyres, very good condition. £75+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire) NEW 16x22.5 wheel rims,
•Wheel Modifications
•Part
(Nottinghamshire) BOSTON Contact Colin Sims 07831 805080
sales@agriculturaltyresandwheels.com
FLOTATION tyres, set of four, from Sands Low Line sprayer, 550/60-R22.5, in good condition. £900+VAT. L Patchett Tel 07719 742598 (East Yorkshire)
SET of 18.4-R42 wheels, Trelleborg, came off Claas 650, good condition. £800+VAT. K Lee Tel 07879 493114 (Suffolk)
STOCKS 14x30 dual wheels, pair, f/w 5% good Continental 540/65R30 tyres, 4 clamps/ wheel, total of 8 supplied with 8 x H eyelets. £450+VAT. S Lewis Tel 07850 739556 (Shropshire)
ROWCROP wheels, set of four, 270/80/36 front ten stud, 270/95/46 rear eight stud, taken off Massey 7616, in very good condition. £2,250+VAT. P Buckenham Tel 07770 797846 (Essex)
ROWCROP wheels, front Taurus 270/95R36, rear Alliance 300/95R52, 90% tread, to fit MF. £2,550+VAT. R Warren Tel 07817 168865 (Essex)
GOODYEAR tyres (4) 255/65-R18
Wrangler, as new, 250mls. £60 each. R Smith Tel 07974 251802 (Cambridgeshire)
650/75R38 tyres, part worn, taken off harvest 2024 as needing repair, put new tyres on due to time & sent these ones off for repair at Tanvics of Melton Mowbray, sold as seen. £1,600+VAT ono. H Moore Tel 07813 524349 eicestershire)
Crystal 2wd
8.25x20 tyre,
stud
wheel
£30+VAT. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (Derbyshire) VREDESTEIN 9.00-16 tyres, 10 ply rating, some tread left, not cracked. £30+VAT. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (Derbyshire)
235/75-R17.5 tyres (2), new still with stickers, Golden Crown, selling as we no longer have the trailer they fit. £120+VAT each. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (Derbyshire)
SET of rowcrop rims, 320/85R32 O - offset, for Househam Spirit S3 68 reg, to match track with 540/65R28, no need to adjust axles for track settings, good condition. £800. R Kessell Tel 07768 205104 (Cornwall) ONE Michelin tyre, radial size 540/65/ R28 front, for MF 6600 Series tractor. £250. R Sinkler Tel 01377 270251 (East Yorkshire)
NEW & USED STOCK
3,000
seeder drill full spec
Kverneland 8555 4 row tedder
Kverneland 3228MN mower conditioner
Kverneland FRO 2.8m grass topper front & rear
Kverneland 3232 MT mower conditioner
Kverneland 3332 front mounted mower conditioner
Kverneland 8590 8 row tedder pro-line
Kverneland 8576 6 row tedder
Kverneland 9580 2 row trailed rake
Redrock 20t dump trailer
Redrock 24t tri-axle low-loading trailer
McHale 691BH & R5S round bale handlers
McHale 691HB bale handler, several
McHale R5 soft hands bale handler, several
McHale V6750 round baler
Teagle 8500 Chief feeder bedder
Moulton FY4 yard scraper
Kawasaki Mule Pro DX
Kawasaki Mule Pro MX
Bomford 2.8m flail mower
PlantMec 8’ & 10’ yard brush
PlantMec hydraulic bucket brush
Walter Watson 8’ x 36” flat roll
Walter Watson 10’ x 36” flat roll
Walter Watson 12’ x 36” hydraulic rotating
USED MACHINERY IN STOCK
McCormick 2005 CX105 extra shift, front linkage & PTO, 1600hrs
Case 2004 MXM 155 tractor
Deutz 5090D c/w loader
Deutz Agritron 430GS 2500hrs only, 2011
Deutz Agri 110 6 cylinder c/w loader 2008 good condition
Deutz 6185 Powershift 2019 low hrs
Ford New Holland T90 c/w loader
John Deere 5090R c/w 543R loader, 1000hrs only, 2018 as new
Agco DM255/P mower conditioner, very good condition
Bailey 12t trailer, rollover
ZETOR wheel bolt in centres for 28” wheel, 8 stud, excellent condition. £50+VAT. J Brocksopp Tel 07974 669997 (Derbyshire)
STOCKS box profile rowcrop wheels, 12.4/52 rear, 12.4/36 front. £1,850+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)
MICHELIN Axobib 800x70xR38 (2) used, 30% tread left, still in very good condition. £500 ono. H Shaw Tel 07990 632309 (Bedfordshire)
NARROW wheels for Ford tractor, front 6.00-19, back 6.50-48. £450+VAT. D Upton Tel 07813 553629 (Suffolk)
JOHN Deere 6R rowcrops, 380/105R50 90%, 340/85R38 80%, solid centres @72”, 177D load rating, Firestone rear, Mitas front, excellent condition. £3,950 ono. B Christian Tel 07766 057697 (Lincolnshire)
SET of rowcrop wheels to fit Frazier Agribuggy, tyres old & cracked, wheels good. £150. K Gedge Tel 07880 743335 (Norfolk)
GALWAY 22.5LL-16.1 rears & 12LLx16 front turf wheels & tyres. £250. J Murrell Tel 07766 216100/01603 712222 (Norfolk)
NEW Holland T7 Bluepower wheels & tyres, will fit other models, Firestone Performer 85 back & front, fronts 380/85-R28, rears 460/85-R38, can load, Malton. £1,895+VAT ono, PX machinery, etc, considered. M Jeffrey Tel 07802 722408 (North Yorkshire)
ROWCROP wheels for Fendt 516, 320/85-R34 & 320/90-R50, tyres about 50%. £1,200+VAT. M Naylor Tel 07970 576362 (Lincolnshire)
VEGETABLE EQUIPMENT
ASPARAGUS harvesting buggy, vgc. £1,000. M Abraham Tel 07803 266436 (Bedfordshire)
TRUCKMAN canopy to fit Mk8 Toyota Hilux 2016 onwards, c/w beacon, but no rear window. £40 to take away. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)
VEHICLES
• Protects you & your employees Provides precise control • Combat Tyre wear & tear TRANSFORM THE WAY YOU HANDLE TYRES AND GET A GRIP ON SAFETY
687 260 0777 1972092
DUAL wheels for 480/70/38 wheels. £400 ono. R McCheyne Tel 07973 408233 (Essex)
GENUINE John Deere turf tyres/ rims from a 5115ML 2023 model, in excellent condition, hold air perfectly, front: 9.5-16” tyres on 8” rims, rear: 21.5L-16.1” tyres on 18” rims, a great deal. £800+VAT. J Aubrey Tel 07441 424448 (Hampshire)
MITSUBISHI L200 Trojan d/cab, 2013 63 reg, 2.5 diesel manual 4wd, one owner, 65,000mls, MOT until 26-12-2025, serviced every year, towbar, bootliner, radio/CD, bluetooth, a/c, 2 sets keys, rev sensors, folding mirrors, mud flaps. £9,750+VAT ono. C Saunders Tel 07778 060973 (North Yorkshire)
SNUG top rear canopy for Toyota Hilux, 2007, silver, lockable, tinted windows. £600. I Pyatt Tel 07971 189537 (Staffordshire)
RADIATOR for Daihatsu FourTrak. £50. D Macer Tel 07974 646284/01509 880323 (Nottinghamshire)
VW LCV Caddy Cargo C20 2.0
TDi 102PS Commerce Pro van, due to retirement, mint condition, 9400mls, first reg 29/04/21, emission119g/km, valid MOT, service, tax, manual, load space plywood lined, starlight blue metallic. £18,500 no VAT. B Witney Tel 07980458283 (South Yorkshire)
USED bus, no engine, ideal for glamping project, etc. £1,000 ono no VAT. R King Tel 07929 424474 (Nottinghamshire)
2017 Toyota Hilux rear bumper, OEM part, has a few scratches but would repair a working farm truck, came off a Mk8 Active model Hilux & has the fitting brackets,.can send more photos by Whatsapp if required. POA. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)
2004 Isuzu Rodeo, lots of miles & a few cosmetic challenges but has a MOT until next January, Ifor Williams canopy & tow pack, would make a useful cheap runaround for a farm or shoot. £2,000+VAT. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)
KTM SXF-250 2017 dirt bike, excellent off-roader, well maintained, regularly serviced to keep it in top order, anything that needed doing has been done, mechanically sound, starts first try & has plenty of power. £2,800. C White Tel 07718 626205 (Rutland)
BEET HARVESTERS TIM & THYREGOD 2–3 ROW
Beet buckets – choice of standard & toe tip
BEET CLEANERS – CHOICE OF CTM & TODD with picking tables etc
BEET HOES CHOICE OF 6 & 12 ROW HYD FOLD
Standen - Househam - FMA - Kongskilde
VOGEL NOOT 5 FURROW PLOUGH WITH PRESS
S-950 manual vari width & hydraulic press arm
BAUER E21 RAINSTAR 110–420 IRRIGATION REEL
Case 5130 handy sized 4wd tractor
TERRADISC CULTIVATORS 3 & 4M
Dutch & combination harrows – 3 to 6m
BOMFORD 8M VIBROFLEX HYDRAULIC FOLD
Dalso 6m hyd/fold pigtail cultivator with rear discs FLAT LIFTS – SUBSOILERS 2 TO 5 LEG
Westfield 3 phase 10” grain auger x approx 42’
STAINLESS STEEL WATER/FERTILISER BOWSERS
Choice of 10,000 - 18,000 - 25,000 litres on air or hyd brakes
6T LOW LOADER – HYD LOWERING REAR AXLE
12 ton Marston tipping / flat trailer with lift off side
12T GRAIN TRAILER HYD TAILGATE SPRUNG D/BAR
Tandem axle grain trailer with wooden drop sides
14T MARSTON GRAIN TRAILER HYD BRAKES
Griffiths 28’ flat trailer with steel floor & front/rear ladders
14T ALLOY LORRY CONVERSION – ROLL SHEET
Pettit grain trailers 5 & 12 ton very old and very good
50’ NEAN COMBINE / MACHINERY TRAILER
2017 Nissan Navara NP 300 Tecneca, black gull wing rear hard top, one owner, been used as a farm vehicle so odd scratch, MOT March 2026, serviced Feb 2025, 100,000mls, has had private plate removed. £7,500+VAT ono. A Cade Tel 07769 976968 (Cambridgeshire)
NISSAN Navara pickup diesel auto, 68 reg, ULEZ compliant, 70,00mls, silver, new MOT, owner driver, Adblue disarmed, excellent condition, sat nav, rev cam, tow bar 2 new tyres on front, good for towing, 2 keys. £13,995 ono no VAT. R Gray Tel 07939 443353 (South Yorkshire)
ISUZU D Max Utah manual, 17/17, 104000mls, one owner, Vision pack, leather seats, sat nav, air con, remote lock, Truckman canopy, towbar, good condition. £11,000+VAT. P Wheeler Tel 01452 223322 (Gloucestershire)
1999 Land Rover Defender 110 Hi-cat TDi, good condition, 152,000mls. £10,500+VAT. D Smart - PRICE??? Tel 01223 861482 (Cambridgeshire)
ISUZU D Max Utility DC, 21/71, 74000mls, full Isuzu SH, 6spd gearbox, Truckman canopy, towbar, excellent. £15,000+VAT. P Wheeler Tel 01452 223322 (Gloucestershire)
2016 Ford Ranger Limited, 96,000mls, MOT October 2025, good condition, genuine reason for sale £11,500+VAT ono. M Balls Tel 07771 975952 (Norfolk)
DAF LF 55 curtainsider truck, 16t, 2013, 280bhp, sleeper cab, air con, 6 speed manual gearbox, rear air suspension, would make good livestock chassis. £5,500+VAT. P Wheeler - TWO PRICES??? Tel 01452 223322 (Gloucestershire)
TOYOTA Landcruiser Amazon, silver, reg 1 Feb 2006, current mileage 188867, MOT March 2026. £10,000+VAT ono. S Pemberton Tel 07831 318387 (Essex)
VINTAGE & CLASSIC
TANCO loader to fit IH 454-484 tractor, power bucket .£495 ono G Brown Tel 07774 676440/01945 700142 (Cambridgeshire)
QUICKE loader to fit IH 414 or 434 tractor, power bucket, valves & fittings. £395 ono. G Brown Tel 07774 676440/01945 700142 (Cambridgeshire)
JOHN Deere 2130, N reg, 1974, 6211hrs, starts, runs & drives well, c/w loader. £4,795. W Parsons Tel 07734 949482 (Cambridgeshire)
Over 25 years experience
HORSESHOE wall hanging basket brackets, in excellent condition. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire) Vintage & Classic Tractor Cab Replacement Panels, Parts & Interiors www.lmcmaster.com
+44(0)7885 077168
+44(0)28 25 861300 info@lmcmaster.com
IRON cart wheel bands, various sizes, ideal as a ornamental feature. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)
SHARPENING stone, 2’ x 4”, excellent condition, like new, ideal garden feature. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)
SHARPENING stone 14” x 2”, ideal garden feature, good condition. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)
1975 Taarup TSC 2100 mower/ roller crimper, recently restored & therefore in working order, c/w handbook. £275. G Brain Tel 01794 884355 (Wiltshire)
JOHNSON potato digger chain, complete, two row digger, good condition. £75+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
CAST IRON wheels, 17 of various sizes. £200+VAT. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
MEXICAN hat cast iron troughs. 6 large £45+VAT each, 18 small £40+VAT each. J Johnson Tel 07803 249399 (Hertfordshire)
DRAWBARS to fit MF & Ford. POA. V Smith Tel 07876 770545 (Warwickshire)
RAMS to fit Drotts, etc. POA. V Smith Tel 07876 770545 (Warwickshire)
ESSEX hay wagon, made in Greenstead Green, measurements
11’ long, 6’ wide, 58” wheels at the back & 48” on the front, 6’ high at the back & 5’4” at the front, one front wheel needs attention & bed needs restoration. J Hodge Tel 07815 698617 (Essex)
are suppliers of
British & American, built 1920's–1980's
FORDSON Super Dexter, 1963
V5c, full service inc many new parts with receipts, easy starter, everything works as it should, ideal for smallholder or showing, main tractor in its original paint, ready for work. £5,800 no VAT. M Markham Tel 07850 863374 (Nottinghamshire)
ANTIQUE wooden sack weigher, wood treatment done & stained, add a 25kg weight on one side & pop a sack on the other, fill sack until base moves & the three pieces at the top are in line. £53. R Rayner Tel 07808 066655 (Cambridgeshire)
SINGLE furrow plough, nice garden ornament. £100 no VAT. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
BENTALL 0.5T mill and mixer, single phase, needs new air socks, otherwise in working order. D White Tel 07923 477223 (Essex)
MASSEY Ferguson 135 Multipower, c/w high capacity pump, aluminium grab handles & aluminium headlight surrounds, serial No 67955, the Multipower appears to be very sharp, good tyres, telephone or text for more details. J Vaughan Tel 07831 665757 (Staffordshire)
PAIR of steel adjustable depth wheels, heavy duty. £90. J Berry Tel 07715 231291 (Cheshire)
PAIR of Leyland headlights. N Cowper Tel 07833 196539/01280 703008 (Northamptonshire)
SCALES with 56lb weight. £80 ono. R McCheyne Tel 07973 408233 (Essex)
NEW Holland 945, 1988, 2 owners from new, been on farm 30yrs, good condition. £1,950+VAT. D Smith Tel 07973 139483 (Nottinghamshire)
1957 Fordson Major, unfinished project due to illness, original registration document, new pistons, liners, big ends, crank shaft re-polished, new clutch, head skimmed, rear axle oil seals replaced, numerous other parts available, tyres good. £1,850. S Ash Tel 07831 497328 (Norfolk)
DAVID Brown Case 885 narrow tractor, 1979 J reg, 1205 recorded hrs believed to be genuine, excellent starter & runner, recent full service of filters & oils, early life spent on a nursery, c/w original downswept manifold & full exhaust. £4,950 ono. R Lintott Tel 07799 473374 (Cornwall)
CASE-IH 2390 2wd tractor, 1980, 200hp, used for PTO work many yrs, approx 7500hrs, tyres good, Powershift trans, weights front, some electrics not working at present. R Lane Tel 07831 615912 (Cambridgeshire)
1954 Ferguson TE20 petrol/ paraffin, in working order, c/w 2 furrow plough, single leg subsoiler & milk churn box, sold as complete lot, collection only Stevenage. £2,500 no VAT. D Brown Tel 07860 225293 (Hertfordshire)
MASSEY Ferguson original weight frame to fit 135/230 & 240 tractor, call or WhatsApp for more info.
£250+VAT. J Vaughan Tel 07831 665757 (Staffordshire)
RANSOMES single furrow crawler plough. N Cowper Tel 07833 196539/01280 703008 (Northamptonshire)
INTERNATIONAL B275 etc PTO guard. N Cowper Tel 07833 196539/01280 703008 (Northamptonshire)
PAIR of Super Major front wheel weights. N Cowper Tel 07833 196539/01280 703008 (Northamptonshire)
PAIR of 10x15” front rims, 6 stud. N Cowper Tel 07833 196539/01280 703008 (Northamptonshire)
VINTAGE road tow 2350L water bowser, solidly built example of mid 1980s BuckinghamBawden LoLode Model WF500, roadworthy, galvanised tank is in excellent condition & was recently resprayed, f/w new lights & jockey wheel to trailer. £1,250. A Wedl Tel 07846 527787 (Kent)
MASSEY Ferguson row marker, rare item, see photo, excellent condition, collection only. £100. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)
PTO driven fans, choice of 2, sold as seen, buyer to collect. £150+VAT ono each. T Williams Tel 07920 754700 (Gloucestershire)
D4
5’ wide, good working order, decent disc & bearings. £200 no VAT. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
W M Ball of Rothwell 3t tipping trailer, on farm from new in 1968. £2,000 no VAT. D Treharne Tel 07719 697455 (Northamptonshire)
16-FOOT grass seeder. £100 ono. R McCheyne Tel 07973 408233 (Essex)
D Daniels Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
Ford tractor
£150+VAT ono. D
Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
of 8, weight carrier not included.
BAMFORD
mounted disc harrow,
FOUR Ford tractor weights, weight carrier not included. £300+VAT ono.
TWO
weights.
Daniels
MASSEY Ferguson weights, 2 sets
£250/set ono. D Daniels Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
SET of Ford tractor weights with tombstone, believed to fit 10 Series, 14 x 40kg, weight carrier not included. £1,000+VAT ono. D Daniels Tel 07887 727249 (Norfolk)
1953 Diesel Fordson Major, all new tyres, complete new wings, bonnet, nose cone & base, runs well. £3,500. M Watts Tel 01462 813543 (Bedfordshire)
1959 Massey Ferguson 3 cylinder 35, good off farm condition. £4,500 ono. C Neall Tel 07966 539716 (Essex)
MASSEY Ferguson towing frame, rare item, see photo, good condition, collection only. £150. T Gallimore Tel 07849405044 (Staffordshire)
JOHN Deere classic tractor, refurbished to a very high standard, starts & runs well, don’t know anything else as I am selling for my son in law. £6,000 ovno. G Ulley Tel 07798 872221 (South Yorkshire)
in good condition. J Farrow Tel 07717 573150 (Norfolk)
INTERNATIONAL Transmissions Ltd gearbox ECU part for a Claas Ranger 975 Plus wanted or a 4C 4ws 4wd, JCB Part Number 460/37805 serial number 70755. H Palmer Tel 07921 259511 (Cambridgeshire)
BROCHURES WANTED
All tractor and machinery brands, all years, complete collections. Cash or cheque on collection. Please phone Graham 07889 792875 59-108730
AUGER feeding bucket, pin & cone ideally, but not that important, any condition considered. D Bastable Tel 07770 273630 (Kent)
JOHN DEERE 3765 and Mengele SH30/40 trailed forage harvesters and associated equipment wanted, Including maize headers, etc. GDO Howell 07903 089 391 & 01728 723 683, gdohowell@aol.com.
POTATO riddle wanted, with box tipper, hopper & picking line, any condition & make considered. M Banham Tel 07966 430418/01527 821473 (Worcestershire)
BFS Autostreamers liquid fertiliser bars, set of 48 in as new condition, bought as a new set but only used once, were all working. £900. S Pennock Tel 07811 198404 (Kent)
David Brown 770. G Meadows Tel 07951 111182/01728 660577 (Suffolk)
937779 01953 454462
Fenwick Tel 07729 568237 (Cumbria)
& PICKUPS
anything considered,
payment, in the Anglia/ Kent region. Prompt collection. Call Jeremy Long on 07711 079821.
07970 349863 (Kent)
MITSUBISHI FD15 forklift truck, 1.5T lift, double mast to 3m high, 6807hrs on the clock. £2,750+VAT ono. S Laslett Tel 07764 291738 (Kent)
RECORD No25 heavy duty engineer’s bench vice, quick
never used as an anvil, vgc. £200. P Tweddle Tel 01473 737337 (Suffolk)
POWER hacksaw. £50. D Macer Tel 07974 646284/01509 880323 (Nottinghamshire)
LARGE pillar drill. £50. D Macer Tel 07974 646284/01509 880323 (Nottinghamshire)
LINCOLN Electric MIG welder, 300amp. £400. D Willis Tel 07860 707077 (Suffolk)
TOO LATE FOR CLASSIFICATION
MF50B digger, 3 buckets, starts & runs well. £1,200 ono. P Jackson Tel 07867 663400 (Cambridgeshire)
ZWARTBLE ewes with pure bred lambs at foot, call for further details. J Moody Tel 07767 673493 (Derbyshire)
2011 Mini One 3 door hatchback car, petrol 1600cc, MOT & serviced, good tyres all round, very clean car. £2,300. C Goodchild Tel 07880 556482 (Suffolk)
TWO MF 515 combine drive wheels with centres, tyres unsound. £50+VAT. E Milsom Tel 01666 840772 (Wiltshire)
Tel: 01473 691888
Agrovista makes series of appointments
transition from early
Agrovista has appointed Jan Vos as regional sales manager for Scotland following the retirement of Jonathan Cahalin after 37 years of service. Jan has been with Agrovista for nine years, most recently as area sales manager for the West of Scotland and the Borders. He has worked alongside Jonathan over the past year, to allow a seamless transition from early April. Jonathan joined Schering Agriculture in 1987, part of which became Profarma and then Agrovista, and has been
an integral part of the company’s evolution and growth.
Meanwhile, Erin Forsyth has been appointed rural consultant for the South West of England to help farmer customers in the region make best use of government schemes to increase their business’s resilience and improve cash ow. Erin grew up in rural Oxfordshire and studied for a BSc degree in Geography at Oxford Brookes
which became help farmer customers in the region schemes to increase their
Will Fowler joins Stocks Ag
Will Fowler has been appointed as eld sales representative at Stocks Ag. He will work across the full product o ering of wheels, tyres and applicators and his key responsibilities will be to manage and work with the UK agricultural dealer network, as well as support farmers directly to o er solutions to their enquiries.
University. This was followed by an MSc in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security at the Royal Agricultural University. She obtained a harvest placement on farm after leaving Oxford Brookes and also passed a BASIS foundation course. Erin joined Agrovista in September 2024.
Raised on a dairy farm in Leicestershire, Will took a delight in agricultural machinery. In 2010 he attended Brooksby Melton College where he achieved a Level 3 in Agricultural Engineering and undertook his apprenticeship with a local tractor dealership. Thereafter, Will went on to work for a number of agricultural
Finally,
Barrett
dealerships and a large farm equipment supplier, holding titles of product support engineer, service manager and product specialist.
Sean Stan eld, Stocks Ag sales manager commented:
“Will’s practical knowledge and experience of agricultural machinery is a true credit to him.
Leicestershire, Will took machinery. In 2010 he Will went on a number of team.”
improve cash ow. Erin grew and studied for a BSc foundation course. Erin September 2024.
Graeme has been
Will is very passionate about o ering rst-class support. Since joining the company, he has proven himself as a great asset to the sales
the Stocks Ag
national precision
promoted to national precision
services and rural consultancy manager. Graeme previously managed Agrovista’s precision services and spearheaded the creation and introduction of Insight, Agrovista’s digital platform, through which farmers can access agronomy data, precision mapping tools and farm data management solutions. Graeme will be joined Lewis Butlin, who has been promoted to the post of rural consultancy technical manager.
David Brackenbury retires
data, precision mapping management solutions. by Lewis Butlin has been promoted technical manager.
After a 52-year career (48 years spent in agriculture), well-known potato and vegetable grading/ handling machinery specialist dealer, David Brackenbury (trading as Brackenbury Engineering Ltd), retired on 31st March. This followed a successful online dispersal auction of remaining stock and xed assets, which was conducted by Che ns at the end of January.
thousands of customers and suppliers in the UK and all over the world during the last 48 years, and have made many personal friends during that time. I’m eternally grateful to every single one of them for their support during that time and wish everyone all the best for the future.” nobody interested in taking the a bucket list of ‘to do’s’ while I’m
You can meet Will at Cereals in June, on the Stocks Ag stand (826).
youngest daughter who
“It’s been a long journey with many ups and downs but it’s the end of the road now as I have nobody interested in taking the business on, so time for a rest with a bucket list of ‘to do’s’ while I’m t and able – including a visit to Perth in Western Australia later in the year to see my youngest daughter who is nursing there,” he commented.
“I’ve met and dealt with
Jan Vos.
Erin Forsyth.
Graeme Barrett.
Bidwells strengthens rural team
UK real estate adviser Bidwells has hired Guy Bicknell as a partner within its rural division. Mr Bicknell joins from environmental, agricultural, and planning consultancy Wilson Wraight LLP, where he acted as a senior consultant providing management and strategic advice to a diverse range of estate and farming clients.
aptitude in day-to-day management across arable (harvesting, establishment, planning, buying and selling), livestock (planning, grazing plans, feed management), as well as stewardship, nancial forecasting and workforce management.
Brayfield Farms Ltd FARM MANAGER
Beds/Bucks/Northants borders
We are a successful, family-owned arable farm with a thriving AD plant, based in Cold Brayfield. In addition to c.1,200 acres of owned land, we manage a further c.1,500 acres locally through established contract farming agreements. As we look to expand and innovate, we are searching for a dynamic and experienced Farm Manager to join our team and drive the business forward.
He wields over 29 years’ experience working within the agricultural sector, managing supply and operations for national sugar producer British Sugar plc. He also has an extensive background in practical farming and estate management, with proven
New manager for Merlo
The geographic remit of Mr Bicknell’s duties will be primarily focused on the East Anglia and Cambridge regions. With the recent news that farmers in England may be excluded from postBrexit nature funding, a key part of his role will be to help Bidwells’ clients navigate this shifting landscape – o ering guidance on farming resilience and the transition to more nature-friendly practices.
returning to agriculture – his true
Stuart Henry has returned to Merlo UK as area service manager, covering the Northern England territory. Stuart originally joined Merlo in December 2014. His career began with a strong foundation in farming, leading him to an apprenticeship in agricultural engineering with Oliver and Snowdon, now Carrs Billington. From there, he transitioned to HGV mechanics, obtained his HGV license, worked as a lorry driver before returning to agriculture – his true passion. He later advanced into the role of area manager for SDF before initially joining Merlo.
ensuring customer
Committed to strengthening service operations, enhancing dealer relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction, Stuart is
New AEA president
managing supply and management, part of his role will be to help this shifting landscape
We are looking for someone with extensive experience in all aspects of arable production, with proven skills in managing both the practical and financial sides of the business. You will be comfortable overseeing sta , managing budgets and cashflows, using crop management software and working closely with the family to create strategic business plans. Strong attention to detail and good o ce skills are essential.
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of this tengeneration family-owned farm.
Kuhn Farm Machinery’s managing director, Siân Pritchard, became the Agricultural Engineers Association’s (AEA) newly elected president on 1st April 2025. She has outlined her commitment to encouraging new people into the industry and engaging with social media to support the AEA’s campaign, ‘We are Land Based Engineering’.
farming resilience and the transition to more nature-friendly
excited to be back at Merlo. Sharing his enthusiasm, he said: “Over the last two years, the changes within the company inspired me to return, and I see an opportunity to make a real di erence in the area. I am eager to support the dealer network and work closely with the rest of the Merlo team.”
In the coming weeks, Stuart will be introducing himself and meeting with dealer teams across his territory.
To find out more about the role, please call Nick Arrowsmith on 07825 260666
To apply, please email your CV and covering letter to Ann Hartigan at brayfieldestate@gmail.com
Applications by 5pm Tuesday 6 May 2025, flexible start date considered.
Volac appoints new MD
Volac says it is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Thompson as managing director of Volac feed & forage additives. Andrew’s extensive industry expertise and leadership experience will be instrumental in advancing Volac’s vision of shaping the thinking in the market and unlocking ruminant potential.
His career spans key roles at Promar International, where he supported farm performance and supply chain initiatives, including various dairy cost of production initiatives.
campaign, ‘We are Land
continent, she became managing director of Kuhn Farm Machinery, based in Telford, Shropshire, in 2009. Alongside successfully leading the brand over the last 16 years, her passion for encouraging young people into the industry has always been a key focus, and one that she hopes to develop further in her time as AEA president.
Following various machinery manufacturing roles on the
Siân is from a farm machinery background and her family farms on the Welsh border.
Andrew’s global perspective was further strengthened during his time in Shanghai, where he helped shape strategic growth plans for the Asian market. For the past 12 years, he has led Genus’s bovine sector across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, where he successfully combined cutting-edge science with practical solutions tailored to dairy and beef producers. bovine sector leadership. helped shape strategic growth the past 12 years, he has led across Europe, the Middle cutting-edge science
With a strong background in agriculture and business strategy, Andrew brings over 25 years of experience in farm consultancy, supply chain innovation, and global bovine sector leadership. He holds a degree in Agriculture from Newcastle University and an MBA from Bath University.
2025 is a landmark 150th year for the AEA, with Siân becoming the rst ever female president, which she says is a huge privilege to lead at a crucial time for the sector.
2025 is a landmark 150th president, which huge privilege crucial time
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All of our spreaders are manufactured by ourselves in the UK and combine heavy duty construction with top quality components. Standard specifications include 20mm chain, 70mm shafts and bearings, commercial axles, wide angle PTOs.
...the only British built plough on the market, uses a combination of well proven genuine Dowdeswell parts and modern updates From 5 to 10 furrows to suit horsepowers up to 600hp, in furrow and on land options with a choice of bodies including DD, DDS, UCN, SCN and Slatted.
... supply a wide range of new PTO shafts and spares nationwide and also carry out servicing and repairs on most types of shaft.
A huge range of parts are available including U/Js, tubing and guards. We also supply gear boxes and hydraulic motors for a wide range of machines including mowers. spreaders and toppers.
Our parts department offer’s a comprehensive range of oils, filters, wearing parts, batteries, bearings, belts, and tools.