Farming
MONTHLY National Inside this issue...
Grassland UK 2012 We preview the upcoming show
Farm Energy Solar Special
Beef Expo Preview A look ahead to the upcoming event
WIN MacWet Gloves Two pairs to give away
April 2012
USED
TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT
New tractors from our stock for immediate delivery. *Subject to remaining unsold.
NEW
NEW
CVX150, 50kph, Trailer air brakes, full Suspension, 4 speed pto. Large capacity hydraulic pump, weights, mudguards, Austrian built tractor.
CVX175, 50kph, Trailer air brakes, full Suspension, 4 speed pto. Large capacity hydraulic pump, weights, mudguards, Reversible fan, radar & slip control, Austrian built tractor.
New in stock CaseIH JX90 4wd. 40kph. Air conditioned cab, 20x12 gearbox, 540/1000 pto. 2 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, 16.9 x 34 tyres. CaseIH JX90 fitted with Chillton U8 loader, 3rd service, Euro headstock. Same specification as tractor above. CaseIH JX95 PowerShuttle 4wd. 40kph. Air conditioned cab, 540/1000 pto. 2 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, 16.9 x 34 tyres,Front mudguards, telescopic mirrors, extra work lights.
CaseIH JXU85 Statesman Special 40kph. 12x12 gearbox, 16.9 x 34 tyres,2 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes. CaseIH finance scheme – 2+22 @ 0% subject to terms & conditions. CaseIH JXU105 Power Shuttle 40kph. 24x24 gearbox, 16.9 x 34 tyres,2 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, front mudguards, Front weights, Air conditioned cab, 3 speed pto. CaseIH finance scheme – 4+44 @ 2% subject to terms & conditions.
CaseIH JXU115 Power Shuttle 40kph. 24x24 gearbox, 600/65 x 34 tyres,2 x double acting hydraulic valves +hydraulic trailer brakes, front mudguards, Front weights, Air con cab, 3 speed pto. Electric hydraulics. CaseIH finance scheme – subject to terms & conditions. CaseIH Maxxum 110 Power Shuttle 40kph. 16x16 gearbox, 520/70 x 34 tyres, 3 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, front mudguards, Front weights, Air conditioned suspension cab, 3 speed pto. Large capacity hydraulic pump. CaseIH finance scheme – 2+22 @ 0% subject to terms & conditions.
CaseIH Maxxum EP125 Suspension, Power Shuttle ECO 17x16 gearbox, Power Boost engine to 143hp 520/70 x 38 tyres, 3 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, front mudguards, Air conditioned cab. Large capacity hydraulic pump. CaseIH finance scheme - subject to terms & conditions. CaseIH Maxxum 140 Cab Suspension, 600/65 x 38 tyres, 3 x double acting hydraulic valves + hydraulic trailer brakes, front mudguards, Air conditioned cab. Large capacity hydraulic pump, 16x16 40kph gearbox. CaseIH finance scheme – subject to terms & conditions.
Contents
46
70
April 2012
20 14
Features
Regulars
19 20 26 28 32 33 40 48
06 14 38 49 62 68
Shooting MacWet gloves get the thumbs up from us.
Grassland UK 2012 A look ahead at one of the biggest calendar events.
Pig and Poultry Industry news.
Buildings Post Buildings show news.
Grain Update from HGCA.
Beef Expo A look ahead to the upcoming event.
Solar Special We focus on solar energy this month.
News All the latest need to know commentary.
On Topic McDonald’s launches pioneering training programme.
Energy Farm renewables news.
Machinery What’s the latest in the machinery world?
ATV All terrain news.
Motors Coverage of the latest in motors news.
NEXT MONTH Cereals 2012 preview
Potatoes Latest sector news. We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or agriculture in general? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com
Andrew Poulton EDITOR
Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2012.
Connect with us:
Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Edward Hickinbottom e.hickinbottom@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production Team Steve Wilson Andrew Poulton studio@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: 02476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com
04 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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Competition Subscribe Win...A pair of MacWet gloves Two pairs to give away! acWet gloves are the 'all grip, no slip' technologically advanced gloves which have become a global sensation! Their promise of unrivalled grip in all weather conditions means that they perform just as superbly when wet as when dry. The only glove of their kind, MacWet's quality products are currently being used in 35 varied sports which require the unparalleled grip of gloves in all manner of weather conditions. MacWet Gloves are so versatile they can be used for practically any sport or activity where grip and sensitivity are required. From Equestrian, Golf, Shooting, Fishing, Cycling, Watersports right through to Archery, Quad Biking, Racing and Dog Walking, MacWet gloves will ensure you don't loose your grip in any activity.
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Our Opinion Our review pair of MacWets arrived so promptly, it was as if they had been hand delivered (pardon the pun). The first thing that struck me was the packaging which confirmed that this is one quality product! Sizing was spot on (you simply measure across your palm at the base of the fingers – a quick measure guide is also part of the packaging if you are in a store that stocks them). Stitching and finish is of the highest quality and the gloves are attractive and comfortable to wear – thin enough for good 'feel' yet deceptively substantial with a soft suede like finish. A branded velcro strap keeps them secure. We love them! For your chance to win a pair of these fantastic gloves just answer the question below and send your completed entry to Farming Monthly National, MacWet Competition, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ. Good Luck!
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 05
| News
New hotlines to Government
Could you be our Young Advocates for Agriculture?
Introduced for rural and farming interests.
Apply now and have your say.
ural business in the North West and Southern England will now have a hotline direct to government as three new Rural and Farming Networks are announced by Environment Minister, Richard Benyon. Fourteen Rural and Farming Networks were set up at the start of the year to identify and feed back local issues and concerns straight to the heart of Government, in order to make policies more rural-friendly. The three new Rural and Farming Networks announced today are: • The Wessex Rural and Farming Network; • Cumbria & North Lancashire Farming, Food & Rural Group; and • Cheshire, South and West Lancashire, Merseyside & Manchester Land Use Farming & Rural Group. Environment Minister, Richard Benyon said; “We are giving rural communities a new voice so that their interests will not be neglected by Government as they have been in the past. “Great business ideas should never be held back by the challenges of a rural location. These Rural and Farming Networks are making us aware of the problems that local businesses face so that we can tackle them and provide the right opportunities for businesses to grow.” Rural and Farming Networks bring together people from rural communities, rural businesses and the food and farming industries. They make a direct link between rural areas and the Government, creating new
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opportunities to develop better and more targeted policy. Each group will also be a vital point of contact in the event of local emergencies – such as flooding - giving advice and information so that the right kind of assistance can be provided to keep businesses running. The new networks sit alongside a £165 million package of measures to support rural communities announced in the Rural Economy Growth Review which aims to maximise the economic potential of rural communities and businesses. The Rural Economy Growth Review included: • £100 million to grow rural businesses through the Rural Development Programme for England; • Grants totalling £20 million to extend superfast broadband to the remotest areas; • New Rural Growth Networks to help rural areas overcome barriers to growth such as poor infrastructure, scarcity of business premises and lack of business networks; • Action to cut red tape on use of farm buildings to address the shortage of rural business premises; • £25 million to promote rural tourism and supporting its businesses; and • Loans totalling £20 million for community-owned renewable energy schemes. The Rural and Farming Network will meet for the first time in early 2012 and then on individual policy areas or issues of importance to rural communities.
ntries are now invited for this year’s Young Advocates for Agriculture, the national debating competition that gives student agriculturalists the chance to have their say on the future of the farming industry. Taking place on the 4th October at the Farmer’s & Fletcher’s Livery Hall in London, the aspiring young orators will be put through their paces in front of a panel of prestigious judges as well as a large audience of farmers and industry leaders. The debaters will be flexing their oratory skills to win the Young Advocates trophy, a cash prize and a media training day with Tom Heap, investigative reporter on BBC’s Countryfile. And that’s not all! New for 2012 and open to all competitors, the two best individual debaters will be selected to act as seconds in the famed Oxford Union Debate at the Oxford Farming Conference in January 2013. Commenting during last year’s
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competition, farming minister Jim Paice said "Our industry needs its advocates. We've always suffered because we don't have enough people out there who can positively promote and explain what we're doing. The brainchild of Jim Williams from the National Farm Research Unit and David Bolton Partners, Young Advocates for Agriculture is also sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Farmers, the Oxford Farming Conference and Dow Agri Sciences. For more information on how to get involved visit www.youngadvocates.co.uk or email Jacqui Freeman on youngadvocates@btinternet.com.
LIMEX Contact our sales team:
Tel 0870 2402314 • Fax 0870 2402729
E-mail: limex@britishsugar.com www.limex.co.uk
06 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 07
| News
Patura Electric Fencing Now Available in the UK German quality now available. ritish gate and fencing accessories specialist, Birkdale Sales, has launched Patura electric fencing the market leading, German manufactured brand - here in the UK. With exclusive rights to Patura for the UK and Ireland, Birkdale is stocking a complete range of temporary and permanent electric fencing; with standard wire, tape or rope variants, electric netting options and mains, battery or solar powered energisers; plus a wide range of fixtures, fittings and accessories for customising, installing and managing the systems in-situ. Currently available to buy direct from Birkdale, Patura comes with a 3 year warranty on all energisers, comprehensive availability and next day delivery nationwide on most orders placed before 2pm. Already widely used across Continental Europe, Patura offers variants for controlling both domestic and wild animals in a wide variety of applications and
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settings, from poultry and pigs, sheep and goats right through to cattle and horses; from rabbits, pigeons and wild boar to deer, herons and even cats and dogs. There’s a travelling trekking kit too! “Patura is widely acknowledged as the best electric fencing on the market today; it's certainly the "system of choice" across Continental Europe... but until now it's not been available in the UK or Ireland” said Birkdale MD, John Abernethie. “We're delighted to have changed all that!” Birkdale: T 0845 450 9000; www.birkdalesales.com
Next Auctions on Monday 16th April 2012 & 21st May 2012 commencing at 10.30am
08 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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Country Women update... South of England Show More events planned for Country Women Countrywide.
7th, 8th and 9th of June 2012, Ardingly.
eventy members and guests gathered in Harrogate for a long weekend last month proving the strength and popularity of the Farm Women’s Clubs and the success of the Country Women Countrywide for keeping the lines of communication open. As a result the ‘National’ weekends have continued: walking in Snowdonia, The Cotswolds, East Yorkshire and the Nene Valley, visits and sightseeing in Worthing, Ross on Wye, Derby and, as mentioned, in February this year, Harrogate. Plans for the rest of this year include a Southern Counties lunch in May near Andover, walking in the Lake District in October and, in February 2013, a visit to Herefordshire. All national events are
ast years South of England Show was one of our favourites of the year. As a Media Partner for the event, Farming Monthly was in attendance and, indeed, had a couple of sponsored classes in the cattle rings. From our arrival, the excellent hospitality that we were shown made a real impact and it was clear to us that this show was a very well organised affair. There was a lot going on around the showground with the afore mentioned livestock judging in the rings, show jumping in the arena and all manner of stores and stalls to cater for those on a 'shopping mission'. Trade stands are in abundance also – so you could get a bit of
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organised by members for members ensuring that the best use is made of local knowledge. In the same way, CWC is run by members for members, it is free to join, depends on fundraising and donations and is run on a shoestring. Remarkably it is incredibly successful at continuing the philosophy of Farm Women’s Clubs in bringing people together to enjoy different experiences and each other’s company. If you would like to join CWC, receive our twice yearly Newsletter by email or by snail mail then either email christine@countrywomen.co.uk write to Jenny at Church Farm, Coombes, Lancing, Sussex BN15 0RS or ring Mary on 01273 452028 – we would be delighted to hear from you.
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business done whilst you are there. Under the wing of Percy Claridge (a steward at the show for more years than he cares to remember!) we were guided around the facilities and looked after so well, we didn't want to leave! The show offers a great day out for all the family and is an event in the South that is not to be missed. Taking place again this year on 7th, 8th and 9th of June at the showground in Ardingly, Farming Monthly will be there once again to experience the warmth and hospitality of the South of England Agricultural Society. Book your tickets now by visiting www.seas.org.uk
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 09
| News
RPA Alert: Dairy farmers have one month to apply for TRQ Check eligibility and apply now. ritish milk producers affected by herd movement restrictions can apply now for additional quota to cover some excess production caused by the restrictions which apply to animals from holdings affected by certain diseases. The Rural Payments Agency has announced that ‘Temporary Reallocation of Milk Quota’ (TRQ) forms are available now (1 April) and the deadline for submitting
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completed applications for the 2011/2012 quota year is Monday, 30 April 2012. The TRQ is based on the principle that movement restrictions will prohibit the sale of newly calved heifers, so a producer may have little option but to add these heifers to the dairy herd. The retention of surplus stock may lead to producers exceeding their milk quota. Eligible producers whose milk deliveries have exceeded their quota can, therefore, apply for a reallocation of milk quota to partly offset the difference. Producers in England, Wales and Scotland can get the application form (MQ/16) and
WNSC student lands job Position at Tugby Estate for gamekeeping student. hen Richard Norbury, Walford Training Placement Officer for Walford and North Shropshire College, was contacted by the owner of Tugby Estate Leicestershire and asked to
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recommend someone who could run the shoot for the remainder of the season as their gamekeeper was off ill, he had no hesitation in putting forward the name of Jack Wooley. Jack was a past apprentice of
additional details from either the Milk Quotas Team on 01392 266535 or online at rpa.defra.gov.uk under the link ‘Milk Quotas’ – ‘Forms’. Producers in Northern Ireland should contact DARD on 028 9052 4815. To qualify for a TRQ for the 2011/2012 quota year, a producer must have been under a movement restriction for a period during the quota year, i.e. the movement of animals (other than possibly direct for slaughter) was prohibited by a formal notice or order served on the producer. Producers will not qualify if they: • Disposed of any unused quota, by permanent transfer or lease; or
• Purchased dairy cows; or • Purchased in-calf heifers, after a movement restriction was imposed, unless they can demonstrate a prior contractual commitment to do so, or • Were subjected to a herd movement restriction simply due to an overdue test, unless they can provide evidence that extenuating circumstances for the delay was beyond their control. The reallocation, under Regulation 19 of the Dairy Produce Quotas Regulations 2005, as amended, will be made as part of the levy calculation process carried out by RPA in June/July 2012.
the College who, at that time, was working with Head Keeper Colin Roper as a trainee at Great Tew Estate Oxfordshire. Jack has now been at the shoot for 9 months and has made such a good impression that he has been offered the job full time as a single handed gamekeeper. Richard says “Jack is an honest, hard-working lad, very committed to being a gamekeeper and the life style that goes with the job. When he passed his level two
apprenticeship with the College he also gained the student of the year award. He has now decided to carry on his studies with us and start his level three in Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management at Walford.” For more information about Gamekeeing or other Countryside and Wildlife Management courses at Walford and North Shropshire College please visit our website at www.wnsc.ac.uk or telephone 01939 262100
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10 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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ArcGen Hilta celebrates ‘Best of British’ with Alcon Pumps 60 years in the marketplace milestone.
rcGen Hilta is celebrating more than 60 years in the marketplace for its market leading range of ALCON Pumps. ALCON Pumps’ history dates back to the 1940s, with the first traceable reference to ALCON found on the website of Chippindale Plant Hire Ltd. Over the decades ALCON’s popularity grew and by the 1990s sales had reached £1 million. Today, they are used across a number of industries, but are longstanding favourites in the agricultural industry.
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“The ALCON range is used on agricultural projects all over the UK and in Ireland.” ALCON’s high pressure pumps are perfect for pumping dirty water and slurry, tank filling, pig feeding, crop spraying and irrigation as well as for use with clean water and fuel oils. Some of the most popular pumps in the range amongst farmers are the Chopper, Heavy
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Duty and Mark III models. The ALCON Chopper is a 3” centrifugal self-priming pump, ideal for use with clean, dirty or muddy water, screened sewerage, farm effluent transfer and organic irrigation. The ALCON Mark III 1 ½” and 2” self-priming centrifugal pump is also used for the transfer of clean, dirty and muddy water, but is also commonly used for the transfer or water and light oils, and fuel oils due to its Viton seal. The Mark III has also proven a favourite for horticultural irrigation and the washing of machinery. ALCON Heavy Duty and Pig Feed pumps are 2” and 3” centrifugal pumps with a cast iron body. Cast iron impellers can be fitted for use with clean, dirt and muddy water, irrigation and crop spraying, or a bronze impeller are available for clean and dirty water, liquid feed mixing and distribution, and pig and animal feeds. The ALCON range is used on agricultural projects all over the UK and in Ireland. Also available from ArcGen Hilta are the Hilta range of pumps, consisting of submersible, residue, centrifugal, diaphragm and automatic priming pumps available from 1inch to 12inches. For more information about ArcGen Hilta’s range of pumps, call 0845 409 0280, visit www.arcgenhilta.com or email info@arcgenhilta.com.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 11
| News
Whatever you drive and wherever you drive - ATV and Quad bike tyres from Kirkby Tyres. Full range of tyres for all your ATV requirements. irkby Tyres have been at the forefront of tyre and wheel wholesaling and distribution for over 60 years and have established themselves as one of the largest tyre and wheel ‘full line wholesalers and distributors’ in Europe. Kirkby Tyres carry a vast stock of all types of tyre and wheel for all markets which includes a comprehensive stockholding of ‘Off The Road’ (OTR) tyres and wheels from leading premium tyre manufacturers including Alliance, BKT and Double Coin. Kirkby Tyres are UK agents for BKT tyres. A large stock of BKT agricultural, forestry, construction, Industrial, ATV, lawn & garden and Off The Road tyres are always available which includes the latest tyres for ATV’s and Quad bikes. Whether you use your ATV or Quad bike for racing,
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sport, leisure or as a general utility vehicle Kirkby Tyres can supply you with a specialist tyre to suit your requirements whatever the terrain. Specially designed tread patterns and tyre construction provide exceptional performance, grip and sidewall protection. The full range of ATV and Quad tyres from Kirkby include the BKT AT111 sport/racing tyre with a specially designed tread pattern having a high non-skid-depth and thick sidewall providing extra grip. Available in a heavy duty 6 ply specification it is the ideal tyre for use on loose and hard packed surfaces for utility vehicles and in sport applications for high speed use. Manufactured from a specially designed compound with natural rubber the AT111 delivers excellent traction with good tread life. Utility 2 and 4 ply tyres are also available from BKT and include the AT108 (4 ply) all terrain tyre, AT109
12 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
(2 ply) lightweight ‘all round’ tyre with rounded profile and dimpled ‘biting edge’ tread for increased traction. AT119 (2 and 4ply) lightweight tyre with rounded profile and strong nylon casing for improved directional stability. The BKT ATV and Quad tyre range is completed with the W207 Utility/Mule tyre. Manufactured with a 6ply reinforced casing, aggressive tread pattern with large shoulder knobs which wrap around the sidewall and natural rubber tread the W207 is one of the most effective utility tyres available. The tread design gives excellent side bite and cleans easily. It is one of the most puncture resistant tyres on the market. Some BKT ATV and Quad tyres are ‘E’ marked for road use. Kirkby Tyres also offers a full range of wheels and wheel assemblies for any fitment in the agricultural, row crop, trailer, wide-
flotation, hi-speed/low compaction, earthmover and industrial markets. All wheels are made to OE specification, supplied in the colour of your choice and can be manufactured in small batch runs or in high volumes to suit your requirements. GKN one of the world’s leading manufacturers of agricultural and off highway wheels has chosen Kirkby Tyres as a partner for the O/E and replacement market in the UK and Ireland enabling them to supply a built up unit for almost every application. For more information or any general sales enquiries please contact the Sales Team on: 0870 242 8800 www.kirkbytyres.co.uk
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Premier pedigree herd Get the best deal on Open Day announced replacement belts for agricultural machinery Mark the date in your diaries. H Wilson & Son have announced Thursday June 14th as the date for their Tregibby Herd Open Day. The event is to celebrate the herd’s success in winning the 2011 Premier Pedigree Herd competition run by Holstein UK, who are assisting the Wilson family with planning the day. The Tregibby herd has a formidable reputation for both production and type. The 75strong Holstein herd currently has a rolling average of 11,662 kg at 4.53% butterfat and 3.18% protein and contains no fewer than 32 Excellent and 33 Very Good animals. The herd is perhaps synonymous with the great Dalesend Storm Maude EX97, one of only five cows ever to score 97 points in the UK. 14-year-old Maude is still in milk with lifetime production in excess of 145,000 litres and she is milking alongside three generations of descendants. The Tregibby herd, which
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contains a number of Jerseys alongside the Holsteins, is situated on the outskirts of Cardigan in West Wales. It is run by Hefyn Wilson and his wife Ffion, with help from father Jimmy and brother Arwyn. The micro climate in the area allows fours cuts of high Dry Matter silage to be taken annually and the herd’s performance is based on making the best use of the available forage.
Rema Tip-Top know how... he conveyor belt on a harvester, sorter, grader etc is one of those parts that is subject to wear and tear, and therefore will need replacing from time to time. The best advice in such a situation is to cut out the middle-man and go directly to the manufacturer, for both the best prices and the best service. Rema Tip-Top is a UK manufacturer of conveyor belts for agricultural machinery. The company manufactures high quality, long lasting belts using a range of materials, including PVC, PU and rubber. Belts can be supplied “flat”, or with side walls or cleats for increased lifting capacity on inclined applications. As a result belts are available for any application in the agriculture industry, from harvesting produce in the field to packing ready for delivery. Rema Tip-Top belts can be purchased from a network of
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service centres, which also offer installation services – staff there will even to help identify the correct belt for the machinery to make sure customers get the best product for the job. So, for the best quality, the best value for money, and the best service, contact Rema Tip-Top. REMA TIP TOP INDUSTRY UK Limited, Plumtree Industrial Estate, Harworth, Doncaster, DN11 8EW Customer Service: 0870 143 1600 Fax: 01302 711-998 Email: info@tip-top.co.uk
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 13
| On Topic
On Topic
McDonald’s steps up its support of British and Irish farming with new long-term agriculture programme Farm Forward from McDonald's includes pioneering training programme for young farmers.
cDonald's is to launch a long-term programme to support British and Irish farming, it was announced today. Developed in response to major challenges facing British and Irish agriculture, Farm Forward aims to help secure a sustainable future for British and Irish farming by supporting existing farmers and helping young farmers into the industry. McDonald's strong and sustained sales growth in the UK means it now spends more than £320 million per year on its UK supply chain compared to £269 million in 2009. It buys ingredients from over 17,500 British and Irish farmers to ensure the long-term and continued supply of quality ingredients for its menu, which is served to on average 2.5 million customers each day. With an initial first-year investment of £1 million, Farm Forward is built around five core commitments that span: quality of ingredients; animal welfare standards; creating work and training opportunities for young farmers; environmental and efficiency standards; and knowledge sharing. The programme has been created in collaboration with leading farmers and agricultural experts including the National Farm Research Unit, beef and lamb industry organisation EBLEX and FAI Farms. It launches with three projects, each informed by a new study of
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Farm Forward pioneering training programme from McDonald’s
14 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
500 progressive farmers, commissioned by McDonald's, to find new insights into the key challenges they face and the solutions they believe would offer most value to their businesses and the agricultural sector. The projects are: 1) A pioneering training programme for young farmers, which will enable agricultural students from across the UK to complete a 12 month placement to gain experience through the whole spectrum of the agricultural supply chain, from farm to abattoir to restaurant. Starting in July 2012, the 12month placement has been created in partnership with leading agricultural colleges and some of McDonald’s biggest suppliers, including food manufacturer McCain and food production companies OSI Food Solutions and Tulip. The training programme provides aspiring young farmers with the blend of farming and business skills needed to succeed in today’s farming sector. According to McDonald's research, two-thirds of respondents stated that improving the farming and business skills of themselves and their staff is imperative to keeping their farm enterprise successful in the future. 2)A free simple carbon calculator to help livestock farmers measure and understand how to change their working practices in order to drive greater efficiencies
on their farms and improve environmental performance. The calculator has been created by independent energy-auditing company E-CO2 following a twoyear research study by E-CO2 and the Carbon Trust, which measured the carbon emissions of 350 beef farms across the UK and Ireland. In 2012, more than 200 farmers will trial the calculator before it is modified as needed, and made available to beef farmers across the UK and Ireland next year. 3) Funding new research and innovation to encourage improvements in animal welfare standards by providing evidence and practical guidance for farmers, such as the newly-published study by Dr Ashleigh Bright, which identifies the economic value for farmers of providing range enrichment for laying hens. When farmers were asked how highly they rate a range of factors in keeping their enterprises successful, respondents rated animal welfare within the top three priorities for investment in their farm, alongside growing their business and improving the farm’s sustainability footprint. Brian Mullens, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain, McDonald’s UK said: “We know the farming industry faces some challenging issues, and as a big customer of British and Irish farming, we want to do more to support the industry. Farm Forward is our commitment to help ensure the sustainable future of British and Irish farming. “Supporting the next generation of farmers is vital if we are to secure the future of farming in this country, and our new work programme for young farmers is designed to help them develop the blend of skills and experience that progressive, modern farmers want and need. “We’re excited by the calibre and breadth of the partners we’re working with through Farm Forward, and we’d welcome others who want to join us to get in touch – because what we’ve achieved so far shows we can go further and faster by working together.” Caroline Spelman MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, said:
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| On Topic
On Topic
“With rising global demand for food, there are more opportunities than ever for British farmers and it is vital they are fully equipped to make the most of them in a sustainable way. I applaud the support Farm Forward is offering students interested in becoming farmers and the contribution this
will make to securing the future of the farming industry. It goes hand in hand with all the work we in Government are doing to free-up business to prosper by unwrapping them from red tape.” Victoria Harris, Director of The Prince’s Countryside Fund, said: “The farming sector is full of
enterprising business men and women, and the support that McDonald's is offering through Farm Forward will provide a valuable boost to young farmers looking for a foothold in the sector and established farmers who want to make their businesses more efficient and sustainable.”
hris Fox, 19, Agriculture student at Harper Adams University College and one of the first people to gain a place on McDonald’s new Progressive Young Farmer placement Second year Agriculture student Chris Fox grew up on his family’s sheep, beef and arable farm in Market Rasen, Lincolnshire – where he hopes to work alongside his dad once he has completed his studies at leading agricultural college Harper Adams. Chris is one of the first students to be selected to take part in an innovative Progressive Young Farmer placement scheme introduced by McDonald’s in 2012. During his placement, Chris
will complete a number of roles that will give him the blend of farming and business skills needed to succeed in today’s farming sector – and an understanding of the whole agricultural supply chain, from growing and rearing produce on the farm to serving food to customers at the restaurant counter. Chris’ placement will include a six month stint on a beef farm, where he will be mentored by a progressive farmer. He will then spend three months working closely with McDonald’s supplier OSI. Chris will also work at McCain – which supplies McDonald’s with over 200,000 tonnes of potatoes for its famous French fries – before completing the remainder of his placement at McDonald’s. Chris will work with McDonald’s Agriculture Team as well as getting hands-on hospitality experience alongside employees at one of McDonald’s restaurants. “I was over the moon when I heard McDonald’s had selected me for the placement,” says Chris. “Most farmers never have the opportunity to see the wider supply chain they are part of and understand exactly what happens
to their produce or how much the other businesses involved in the process depend upon it. “To have the chance to go behind the scenes and work across the company will put things in a whole new perspective.” Chris believes this is a very exciting time for young farmers, with the opportunities as well as challenges brought by technological advances and growing global food demand, as well as the industry’s need to attract more young people into the sector. However, he recognises that he is in a privileged position in having a farm within the family, and thinks many young people are put off the sector by misconceptions about what the job actually involves. “There are opportunities for would-be young farmers out there, but I don’t think they are made aware of the options open to them. You have to put your heart and soul into this job, but you get a lot of enjoyment from it and the industry is really on the up. “It’s great that companies like McDonald’s are giving this boost to help get more young people into farming.”
hristina Ford, 20, Bioveterinary Science student at Harper Adams University College and McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmer placement Christina Ford is one of the first students to be selected to take part in an innovative Progressive Young Farmer placement scheme introduced by McDonald’s in 2012, following two years of studying Bioveterinary Science at leading agricultural college Harper Adams. Christina comes from a farming background, having worked alongside her parents and brother on their 180 acre pig and suckler cow farm in Nempnett Thrubwell in Somerset all of her life. During her placement, Christina will complete a number of roles that will give her the blend of farming and business skills needed to succeed in today’s farming sector – and an understanding of the whole agricultural supply chain, from growing and rearing produce on the farm to serving food to customers at the restaurant counter.
Christina’s placement will include a six month stint on a pork farm, where she will be mentored by a progressive farmer. She will then spend three months working with McDonald’ supplier Tulip. Christina will also work at McCain – which supplies McDonald’s with over 200,000 tonnes of potatoes for its famous French fries – before completing the remainder of her placement at McDonald’s. Christina will work with McDonald’s Agriculture Team as well as getting hands-on hospitality experience alongside employees at one of McDonald’s restaurants. “I’m incredibly excited about the placement and the chance to see the whole supply chain”, says Christina. “It’s not something farmers usually get to experience. I’m very keen to explore the marketing and business side in particular which I wouldn’t otherwise get a chance to learn about – but which I think are really important for anyone going into farming.” Christina thinks it’s difficult for most young farmers to get a foot
in the door – despite the fact that many of farmers neighbouring her own family farm are approaching retirement age. She relies on the Young Farmers Club for support and advice, but thinks many of her peers suffer from a lack of information as to potential career choices. “It’s hard for Young Farmers to really understand the variety of roles within farming and what working in the sector really involves. It’s a great industry to be coming into – to have the backing of a major company likes McDonald’s really proves this.”
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Farm Forward pioneering training C programme from McDonald’s
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 15
| News
Leading family feed businesses merge Combined businesses aim to continue to deliver outstanding quality and value to customers. Feed specialists Massey Bros (Feeds) Ltd and Harpers Home Mix Ltd have merged to create a business manufacturing and distributing over 250,000 tonnes of animal feed per year. The new business will continue to manufacture out of 3 sites distributing the full range of feeds to livestock businesses across the South West, Wales, the Midlands and North West of England. “We are excited about the future for ourselves and our customers”, says Richard Massey, Chairman of Massey Bros (Feeds) Ltd. “This is an exceptional opportunity to bring together two successful family run businesses with very similar ideals, to utilise each others’ strengths and ensure the increased resources of the combined business continue to deliver outstanding quality and value to our customers”. “For me this arrangement ticks all the boxes”, continues Bill Harper, Managing Director of Harpers Home Mix Ltd “our customers will continue to receive high quality, competitively priced feeds with leading edge
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technology, our dedicated staff have a secure and exciting future and I remain focussed on the key issues of helping to maintain and develop a modern, dynamic feed business”. Both businesses will retain their trading names and although there will be integration of functions such as finance, research and product development, the sales staff and support staff across both businesses will remain. “Our customers will see no change in the staff they currently deal with”, comments Bill, “or indeed the quality of the product and service they receive. We are fortunate to have good teams across both businesses and I know they are excited with the future opportunities this merger provides. We at Harpers have developed many new products over the years and here there are real synergies with Massey’s who are leaders in their region in terms of cow nutrition, an area run by highly respected nutritionist David Wilde who will be known to many”. Bill Harper will be joining Richard and Kynan Massey on the board of Massey Bros (Feeds) Ltd
for a period of at least three years. Similarly Richard and Kynan Massey will be joining Bill Harper and Glen Johns on the board of Harpers Home Mix Ltd. “We are living in exciting times for agriculture”, concludes Richard Massey, “we are becoming more valued as an industry by the consumer and our supply chains are becoming more robust as food security and supply continue to climb up the retail and political
agendas. However we live in a global economy and we must adapt and grow to ensure in turn that our farming industry in the UK continues to have the latest technology at its disposal combined with value and choice. Our merger takes a significant step along this path, but as family businesses we will ensure our service to our customers remains at our core.
Spring Lambing Day a huge success! Walford’s annual event proves ever popular. he annual Spring Lambing Day took place on Sunday 11th March at the Walford Campus of Walford and North Shropshire College. The weather was extremely kind and the campus was very busy with thousands of visitors, it was the best year to date with a 10% increase in visitor numbers. The new lambs were the star attraction with 6 actually being born on the day! There were so many activities all over the campus including tractor and trailer rides around the farm, a fantastic show from Whitchurch Dog Display Team, a great white shark treasure hunt and the opportunity to toast marshmallows around the camp fire. Some of the latest agricultural technology could be seen around the campus which was extremely impressive. Robert Wiseman Dairies brought along a cow simulator for children to try their hand at milking, they also generously gave out free milkshakes all day. Newly this year we had Superzorbs a really fun activity
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which meant lots of children were rolling around the field in giant blow-up balls! Baschurch Fire Service had a great display and Shropshire Gundogs put the dogs through their paces for visitors to watch. There were many countryside and wildlife displays, in addition there was a tombola, guess the balloons in the tractor, falconry display, face painting, sugarcraft and pottery demonstrations plus an equine display. The day ended with visitors watching the dairy herd being milked from the viewing gallery. Laura Cooper and her family had a fantastic day out, ‘As you can see my family and I had a great time on Sunday. We go every year and always find something different. A great day out for all of the family and at a very reasonable price!’ If any visitors took photos of the Spring Lambing Day, we would love to see them! Simply log-on to our facebook page at www.facebook.com/WNSCollege and upload your image there! To find out more about courses
16 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
on offer at Walford and North Shropshire College, visit
www.wnsc.ac.uk
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| News
ForFarmers Group to acquire BOCM PAULS Leading European feed supplier on a buying spree. OCM PAULS has announced that ForFarmers Group, which has its Head Office in The Netherlands, is to acquire BOCM PAULS through the acquisition of all of the shares of Agricola Group. The price paid by ForFarmers Group is based on an enterprise value of €85 million after an adjustment for pension fund deficit plus a deferred consideration from surplus property. The deal will be completed once ForFarmers Group has gained shareholder approval and is subject to clearance by the EU Competition Authorities. BOCM PAULS is the UK’s leading feed manufacturer which, through its growth strategy, “The
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Total Feed Business”, now sells in excess of 2 million tonnes of compounds, blends and coproducts. ForFarmers Group is a leading European feed supplier having recently acquired the Hendrix compound feed business from Nutreco. The combined companies sell some 6.5 million tonnes of compound feeds and other feed materials in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. BOCM PAULS Chief Executive, Bill Mayne, said “the acquisition of BOCM PAULS will create a new Group which will be the clear market leader in Europe with feed sales of around 8.8 million tonnes. The financial strength of the new Group and the scale of its
‘HOT & COLD PRESSURE WASHERS & AIR COMPRESSORS’
operations will create competitive advantage and will benefit employees and customers alike”. “BOCM PAULS will operate as the UK feed company of ForFarmers Group and will trade with a high degree of autonomy. ForFarmers Group is committed to supporting further investment and growth for BOCM PAULS and to creating opportunities for our employees within the new Group”, he continued. “This change represents an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders in the business giving a clear direction for BOCM PAULS for the long term benefit of our customers and employees”. “This new direction for BOCM PAULS comes at a time of renewed opportunity for the UK food
and farming industry and provides the company with the resources and financial strength to ensure its future success as part of the number one company in Europe and one of the largest feed companies in the world”, Bill Mayne concluded. “The acquisition of BOCM PAULS is a major step in the international growth ambition of the ForFarmers Group. All companies within the ForFarmers Group can use each others resources which will provide great opportunities for all involved”, concludes Bert-Jan Ruumpol, CEO of the ForFarmers Group.
Sellarc
For full details, phone today: W. Bateman & Co Garstang Road, Barton, Preston, Lancs Tel: (01772) 862948 Fax: (01772) 861639 www.bateman-sellarc.co.uk
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 17
| News
Milk fever Thought to affect between 5 and 10% of the UK’s dairy cattle. he clinical condition milk fever (post-parturient hypocalcaemia) is a disease, usually of dairy cows, characterized by reduced blood calcium levels. Other minerals, such as Magnesium can also be involved. It is most common in the first few days after calving, usually, but not always, in cows that are calving for the third time or more, when the demand for calcium for milk production is greater than the animal's ability to mobilise and release calcium reserves or absorb calcium from the diet. Milk fever is thought to affect between 5 and 10% of the UK’s dairy cattle although a greater number of animals can be affected by the sub clinical form of the disease. The subclinical side of milk fever is also a seriously underestimated issue in dairy cows – although it is difficult to recognise, it can cause significant costs in terms of health and welfare. Vets and farmers are now recognising the benefits of
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investigating, monitoring and addressing subclinical milk fever as well as clinical cases. Clinical signs: Affected animals are often referred to as ‘downer cows’, although other clinical conditions can also cause downer cow syndrome. In mild cases, the animal can appear to be normal, but may have difficulty standing. If the cow succeeds in rising, she may stagger, appear unsteady on her feet, and will eventually fall. However, affected animals will often continue to eat. In advanced cases, the cow will often be found lying on her side, appearing to be dead. The body temperature can drop below normal. If left untreated, milk fever is fatal. Treatment: Treatment usually involves the intravenous injection of calcium. Intramuscular and sub cutaneous routes are also sometimes used. Advice and guidance on the use of intravenous calcium should be sought from your veterinary
surgeon as intravenous calcium can be fatal as a result of causing the heart to stop beating. The prognosis is usually good, and the animal will often be able to rise and walk quite soon after treatment. However, relapses of clinical cases can occur. Prevention: Milk fever can usually be prevented by good dry cow management and nutritional management. Farmers should discuss the prevention of milk fever with their veterinary surgeon. Where a high risk of milk fever is identified, calcium boluses can be administered to prevent hypocalcaemia from arising. Milk fever can largely be prevented by good transisition cow management and nutritional management. Farmers should discuss prevention of milk fever
with their veterinary surgeon. Supplemental calcium, such as oral calcium boluses, can be used around the time of calving to reduce the risk of milk fever arising, especially in cows recognised as being at increased risk (includes cows 2-3 lactations and over, overconditioned cows and those with a previous history of milk fever).
“Milk fever is thought to affect between 5 and 10% of the UK’s dairy cattle” The right balance of calcium salts can help by providing calcium as well as helping the cow to mobilise her own calcium reserves and ideally should be administered starting 12-24hours prior to calving or immediately after calving. Calcium boluses can also be used following successful treatment of clinical cases to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Always
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One Tonne Potato Boxes
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Telephone 01873 859188
18 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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| Shooting
Shoot and reload in comfort with MacWet We have tried them here at Farming Monthly - and we love them! uitable for all shooting disciplines, MacWet have developed a technologically advanced glove which really is ‘all grip and no slip’. The first of their kind on the shooting glove market, MacWet gloves are made from a uniquely responsive fabric which automatically adjusts to the climate to maintain maximum comfort, sensitivity and feel at all times. With an unrivalled grip, the high quality, high performance gloves have a superb fit for maximum control across all weather conditions. The unique, breathable Aquatec fabric used on the palms and fingers of the gloves minimises the effects of humidity, perspiration and precipitation by actively drawing moisture away from the hand to the outside of the glove, where it is used to increase grip. Whether conditions are dry, wet or humid, the gloves remain soft to the touch and with a natural drying time of just 5-10 minutes, comfort and feel are never compromised. For a superior ‘second skin’ fit, the gloves, sold in pairs are available in 14 different sizes and 2 cuff lengths, all with adjustable cuff
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straps to ensure you remain comfortable whilst out shooting. The lightweight Aquatec fabric and skin-tight fit of the MacWet gloves provides excellent trigger feel and sensitivity for complete control, so unlike traditional shooting gloves, there’s no need to expose your trigger finger for shooting. Popular with police shooting teams, the gloves ensure maximum grip and protection for your non-trigger hand from the heat of the barrel; you can even reload swiftly and safely without removing the gloves. In wet or humid weather, the unique attributes of the MacWet gloves really come into their own. So with 100% grip even when wet, it is easy to see why the gloves are becoming essential shooting equipment for professionals as well as amateurs. Top ladies shooter Becky Bream agrees they really do offer the ‘all grip, no slip’ qualities as promised: “I have worn MacWet gloves for three years now, they give a great grip, have a nice snug fit and are very comfortable. You really don’t notice them at all!” Graham Evans from the Wales and GB Clay Shooting Team
agrees: “In 35 years of shooting in top class events I never wore gloves; now I can’t shoot without them, they are brilliant!” Extremely durable and machine washable up to 40°c, the gloves, starting at £27.99 a pair are available in two seasonal options to suit different weather conditions. The mesh glove, developed specifically for warmer weather is available in 6 different colours and is designed to aid circulation around the hand, with light, cool and breathable mesh fabric on the back of the glove. While for cooler weather, the new Climatec glove, available in 4 different colours is windproof, water resistant and features a fleece lined Gortex fabric on the back of the glove for extra comfort and warmth. Please visit www.macwet.com for more information on the ‘all grip, no slip’ gloves. When performance really counts, choose MacWet.
Farmers urged to take advantage of NI pest control scheme BASC & UFU scheme aims to help fight pests. armers in Northern Ireland are being urged to take advantage of a pest control scheme launched by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) and the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU). BASC and the UFU joined forces to put farmers who are in need of pest control in touch with people who shoot so they can get together to try and prevent damage caused by pests.
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“BASC members get access to new areas for shooting opportunities and farmers get much needed help with pests that are damaging crops, taking livestock and spreading disease.” Since its launch, BASC members have dealt with a range of pest problems across the province, from feral pigeons in
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sheds to woodpigeons eating cereals and foxes taking poultry and newborn lambs. A BASC member dealt with a fox problem on a farm outside Ballyclare owned by the McMaster family. Nigel McMaster said: “I read about the BASC pest control scheme in the farming press recently and being a UFU member, I had no hesitation in contacting the BASC NI office as I was having problems with foxes taking newborn lambs. Within a few hours, I received a call from a BASC member who lives in my area. He arrived at my farm later that evening and subsequently dispatched a fox that was in the field next to my sheep. The BASC/UFU pest control scheme is an excellent initiative and I was provided with a first class service that was both quick and humane. I would encourage any farmer having problems with pests such as foxes to contact BASC NI. Tommy Mayne, BASC Northern Ireland director, said: “The most
effective way of reducing pest damage is by shooting but some farmers have reported difficulty in making contact with shooters. This scheme puts BASC NI members in touch with their local farmers who may be experiencing difficulties with pests and it provides a winwin situation for shooters and farmers. BASC members get access to new areas for shooting opportunities and farmers get much needed help with pests that are damaging crops, taking livestock and spreading disease.” Anyone who wants to join the scheme can contact the BASC Northern Ireland team on 02892
605050 or email nire@basc.org.uk with your BASC or UFU membership number, postcode and mobile phone number. BASC NI will put UFU members in touch with their closest registered BASC members. The pest control scheme is only available to BASC and UFU members. If you are a shooter but not a BASC member, phone 02892 605050 to join. Farmers who are not UFU members but want to take advantage of the scheme can join the UFU by phoning 028 90370222.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 19
| Grassland
Grassland 2012
One of the biggest events on the calendar is almost upon us Mark Thursday 10th May in your diary.
rassland UK will take place on Thursday 10 May 2012 in Somerset. The eagerly anticipated triennial event will showcase grassland machinery and processes from seed to feed. In 2009, the one day show attracted 8,071 visitors from various locations throughout the UK and overseas. Grassland UK will be held on working farmland and will feature over 100 acres of working demonstration grass plots. Agrii provided re-seeding of the fields in 2011 with 95 acres over seeded in preparation for this year’s show. While the grass must be suitable for the show which comes round every three years it is used for silage and grazing in between. To maintain fresh grass without reseeding Agrii have used overseeding with great success. Agrii will be focusing on the soil and its influence on the grass crop. Their Precision Farming Team will be demonstrate soil structure data collected digitally and cross reference this to physical soil samples revealing a complete
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picture of the show site. From this base Agrii will provide advice for crop nutrition and agronomy bringing the advanced tools currently used in arable farming to the livestock sector. Mapping of the site has been undertaken by the students from Cannington Centre Bridgwater College using the very latest GPS technology. In addition to the working grass demonstrations, machinery exhibitors will be demonstrating loading/handling equipment using the mown grass in the farm silage clamp and other features will include tyre baling and bagging demonstrations. Further to the machinery demonstrations visitors can attend seminars organised by the British Grassland Society; visit over 100 trade stands showcasing a variety of related products and new products including: • Extension frame for Mixit lagoon stirrers • TurboJet Vari-Speed pneumatic grass seeder (Stocks AG)
• Dan Jet Pro 240 spinning disc grass seeder (Stocks AG) • Albutt Bag Filler • SilaPactor from Kelvin Cave to improve dry matter compaction • Deluxe Cow Cubicle from JFC Manufacturing (Europe) Ltd • Advance Crop Specific Silage Inoculants (MicronbioSystems Ltd) The Show is sponsored by Agrii and our media partner Farmers Weekly. First held in 1985, the Show has grown from strength to strength to become the senior grassland event in the UK which is held in a predominantly livestock area on working farmland. Advance Prices £12 per person £6 students Daily Gate Prices £14 per person £7 students Opening Times 9am-4pm Visit www.bathandwest.com to purchase tickets or call 01749 822200
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| Grassland
New balers to debut at Grassland events Available for the first time this Spring. wo new CLAAS high capacity balers will be making their working debut at this year’s FTMTA Grass & Muck event in Ireland and the Grassland UK at the Bath & West Showground. Available for the first time this spring, the two new balers, the QUADRANT 3300 and ROLLANT 375 AND 374, received considerable praise on account of the their output and bale quality from the farmers and contractors who ran pre-series machines last year.
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“It’s always at night or when it’s due to turn wet that you want to push the baler, and the drop-floor gives you the confidence to push-on without being worried about blockages.” Quadrant 3300 The new QUADRANT 3300 produces a 120cmx90cm bale, making it ideal for transport and ensures that merchants and hauliers can achieve maximise load size, thanks to its size and bale density. Like the QUADRANT 3400 and 3200, the new 3300 uses a prechamber to compress material before entering the main chamber. Ahead of this chamber, the crop is quickly and efficiently cleared from the 2.35m wide pick-up by a 500mm ROTO FEED star rotor that revolves at 160rpm. The new design of pre-chamber on the QUADRANT 3300 can be controlled either manually or automatically. In automatic mode, the feeder rakes, which are controlled by a cam on the main transmission, make two feeder cycles prior to each full stroke when material is passed into the
• Benthall Brosley, Shropshire • Craven Arms, Shropshire • Docklow, Herefordshire • Tarvin, Cheshire
main chamber. In manual mode, using the COMMUNICATOR control terminal, the operator has the option of three settings, so ensuring that the pre-chamber is evenly filled for perfect, high density bales in all conditions. In the main chamber, the bale is further compressed by the main plunger that operates at 46 strokes/minute with a maximum chamber pressure of 200 bar, and the bale is tied by six knotters using just a single knot, making the strings easy to remove. In Wiltshire, baling contractor Sheridan Huntley ran a pre-series QUADRANT 3300 alongside his four other QUADRANT balers. “Bale weights across all crops baled averaged 460kg, but we were getting to know the baler so reckon we should be able to get bale weights up to 500kg,” he says. “Having sensors in both the top and bottom of the pre-chamber worked really well and the feed into the chamber is extremely positive. It’s a very fast baler and would easily cover 100ha a day in good crops, mainly working behind 9.0m cutterbars. We have certainly not had any negatives from either our farmer customers or hauliers, who have been very impressed. In addition to maximising loads, the larger bale size means there are fewer bales, so loading time is reduced.” ROLLANT 375 & 374 The new ROLLANT 375/374 fixed chamber round baler is designed to cope with the heavy crop conditions typically found in the UK and Ireland. Based on the well proved ROLLANT 355/354, this new addition to the ROLLANT range features heavier duty drives and stronger, long life chains. To ensure that optimum outputs can be maintained in heavy crops, the ROLLANT 375/374 also features a
hydraulic drop-floor below the chamber that enables the operator to push the baler to its limit without the risk of blocking it. From the 2.10m wide pick-up, material is fed into the chamber either via a ROTO FEED (RF) star rotor or the 16-blade ROTO CUT (RC) chopping cylinder. For increased density, the ROLLANT 375 also features the new MPS II pressure system, whereby three rollers in the chamber swing down to exert pressure on the bale in the early stages of formation. The new hydraulic drop-floor is operated via a double-acting valve that allows the floor to open slightly allowing smaller lumps to pass through without causing a blockage. At the same time the operator is notified via a buzzer, so they know that they are working at maximum throughput. In the event of a blockage, all the operator has to do to clear it is lower the floor at the press of a button, then reengage the drive to allow the blockage to pass into the main chamber, after which the floor will automatically rise again. In last year’s difficult baling conditions, it was this feature that pre-series users found invaluable
and enabled them to operate at maximum output. “The new drop floor in the chamber is the biggest improvement CLAAS could have made and has helped save so much time and stress when baling,” says Richard Thornber, who recorded 100 inches of rain on his Pennine farm last year. “It’s always at night or when it’s due to turn wet that you want to push the baler, and the drop-floor gives you the confidence to push-on without being worried about blockages.” Both the QUADRANT 3300 and the ROLLANT 375/374 are fully available for this coming season. For further information contact your local Claas dealer or visit www.claas.com
Available for the first time this spring, the two new balers, the QUADRANT 3300 and ROLLANT 375 AND 374, received considerable praise on account of the their output and bale quality from the farmers and contractors who ran pre-series machines last year.
Tel: 01952 881000 Tel: 01588 673325 Tel: 01885 488884 Tel: 01829 749391
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 21
| Grassland
Spaldings launch new 2.2m heavy duty flail topper New 2.2m rear offset topper allows complete cutting flexibility with unique hydraulically adjustable tilt angle incoln, 5th March 2012 – Spaldings today announced the launch of their heavy duty 2.2m offset rear topper. The offset topper is designed for clearing tough grass and scrub brush making it ideal for set aside, field margins, grassland or verges and dyke banks. Featuring a double skinned chassis and 10mm thick rotor shaft the topper is robustly constructed to withstand frequent and rigorous
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use and increases the machines life. A mechanical break back system ensures that the topper is protected against damage from rigid objects whilst the gear box is heavy duty and features a multi vbelt system for easy tensioning. “The offset topper has been developed with a unique hydraulically adjustable tilt angle” says Roger Chase, Agricultural Sales Director for Spaldings. “This allows for precise cutting height
RDS debuts the new WEIGHLOG α10
Quick, safe and efficient uploading and downloading of data.
he new RDS WEIGHLOG α10, specifically designed for agricultural loaders, recently made its Precision Farming Event debut in Peterborough. General consensus amongst the RDS stand staff was that this was the busiest PF Event to date, with the newest addition to the RDS product range proving very popular. Incorporating a 4.3” colour, hi brightness resistive touchscreen display and additional physical keys the WEIGHLOG α10 provides a user-friendly on-board weighing system that can be used for trailer & hopper loading, batch blending
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or check weighing. Suitable for use with up to 10 different attachments e.g. buckets or forks, the system can be retrofitted onto compact wheeled loaders, telescopic handlers, forklifts, skidsteer type loaders and tractor loaders. The system measures hydraulic pressure using up to 4 sensors at a certain position on the lifting cycle compensating for pressure changes in the system. Enhanced stores capability comprising 30 products, 30 customers and up to 5 different recipes designed around animal feed mixing, dispensing and grain handling enable accurate record keeping and traceability. The system provides communication and data storage via SD card reader and USB 2.0 host allowing quick, safe and efficient uploading and downloading of data. For more information please visit the RDS website: www.rdstec.com or contact 01453 733300
22 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
adjustment on the move. The topper is capable of work at an angle of 90° vertical through to a downward angle of 70°, providing the user with maximum cutting flexibility on all types of mowing operations.” The 2.2m offset topper is fitted with 32 heavy duty forged flails which are capable of shredding tough woody stems whilst leaving a neat finish on grass. The topper also incorporates a 152mm diameter rear roller which can be used for height adjustment to allow for a closer cutting finish.
“Featuring a double skinned chassis and 10mm thick rotor shaft the topper is robustly constructed to withstand frequent and rigorous use and increases the machines life.”
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| Grassland
Andrew Curtis Tractors Limited Pensford, Nr Bristol BS39 4DB Tel: 01761 490372 Fax: 01761 490004
E.A. Clayton Limited Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton On Tees, Cleveland TS21 1EB Tel: 01740 630254 Fax: 01740 631097
Romsey Agricultural Machinery Limited Shorts Farm,Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6DX Tel: 01794 323159
Cooks Midlands Limited Horsepool Grange, Stanton Under Bardon, Leicester LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191 Fax: 01530 249199
Hayward United Farmers Limited Heliport Site, Ellough, Beccles, Suffolk NR24 7XD Tel: 01502 475111
TRP Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 Fax: 01529 300310
Day & Coles (Agricultural) Limited Park Farm Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Tel: 01933 673900 Fax: 01933 675858
Keith Davies Agricultural Hem Manor Farm, Hem Lane, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840
Yorkshire Handlers Limited Unit 4-5, Fryors Close, Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel: 01904 489988
Fax: 01904 489061
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 23
| Grassland
New vision and mission for the Lely brand A sustainable, profitable and enjoyable future in farming. ely has decided to revise its mission and vision. Although the company is not going to proceed in a totally different direction, some areas have been changed. We asked Alexander van der Lely, CEO of the Lely Group, to explain Lely’s strategy for the coming years. Alexander, why this major change? “A pleasant working environment as well as profitability refer to the words that we used in the past: improvement of the financial and social wellbeing of farmers. Doing what you want to do has to be enjoyable, while at the same time you also have to be able to make a good living out of it. Although durability definitely was a starting point that has always been inherent in all of our products (ranging from life span to low energy consumption), sustainability will be ranked even higher. Contractors and dairy farmers are working with nature every day. There is a lot of social discussion going on about our business, ranging from the amount of methane emission by cows to the number of liters of water that is needed to produce one kilo of meat.
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MONMOUTHSHIRE Harold R Johns Ltd 01291 689278
Consequently, we can see the agricultural business changing from traditional producers of food and raw materials to a sector where the environment and production of food and energy at local level is key. We believe in ground-breaking initiatives allowing the agricultural business to continue adapting with great agility to its markets and surroundings. Being the ‘innovators in agriculture’, we obviously consider consistent innovation to be the key for the future.” What does this new vision mean for Lely’s strategy? “A new vision is a clear guideline for the choices that we make and it will definitely affect our primary strategic objectives. Our ambitions remain unchanged. We have strengthened our portfolio through acquisitions and R&D, while we are continuously investing in innovative concepts for in the barn. All choices we make are aimed at helping farmers to increase their scale of operations, while remaining flexible and safeguarding animal welfare. On top of this we will concentrate on sustainability from now on, which will lead to a
HULL Robert D Webster Ltd 01964 670224
24 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
OXFORDSHIRE LJ + CA Cannings 01235 763103
new portfolio in the future. We are going to embark on the dedicated manufacturing of products that contribute to an energy neutral agricultural business, or include such products in our portfolio.” What does all this mean for Lely customers? “Let’s go back to our vision. Sustainable translates into long lasting products that save our energy resources. In that context, sustainability is a major starting point for us, in such a way that every investment should yield the farmer sufficient profitability, even without subsidies. Profitable translates into products that allow more efficiency and lower running costs. Enjoyable translates into the development of reliable, robust and productive machines, which also provide sheer working pleasure. Ease of operation and design play an important role in all our product developments. We have to make sure that we are the most reliable suppliers to our dealers – the partners they love to work with. Eventually, this loyalty will become apparent in the way our customers are advised.”
DERBYSHIRE Alkmonton Tractors Ltd 01335 330460
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| Grassland
Automatic bale loading adds wrapping efficiency Excellent film coverage reduces usage. utomatic bale loading is a key feature on the latest round bale wrapper from Kuhn Farm Machinery. The new trailed RW 1600 C turntable wrapper has the integrated Autoload function as standard to increase operating efficiencies when handling bales of 120 cm x 100/150 cm (W x D) and up to 1200kg. Autoload is a new system that automatically picks up a bale with the loading arm and puts it on the wrapping table, without any action needed from the driver. Picking up a second bale with the loading arm during the wrapping process is also possible; the bale will be picked up and held half way to the wrapping position. When the wrapping process is ready the waiting bale automatically loads further on to the wrapping table. The tractor driver can hold both hands on the steering wheel and doesn’t have to continually push buttons to load the bale. The strong design and low table height, and standard large wheels located at the rear of the machine, avoid the need for an active fall damper. This removes one step in
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the normal process and allows the bale to be unloaded on the move, thereby increasing the overall capacity significantly. The RW 1600 C can load bales up to 1200kg, and distributes the bale weight towards the tractor. This avoids slippage and grip problems in hilly environments. New electronics are incorporated into the RW 1600 C to provide increased functionality, ergonomics, safety and capacity. The machine is controlled with an easy to operate and fully
automatic computer system with integrated joystick. This new electronics package, in combination with the Autoload system, has made the RW 1600 C one of the fastest single-stretcher turntable wrappers on the market. The process can be interrupted and started at anytime with the Play/Pause function. Having full control of the process prevents operator mistakes that can lead to machine breakages. The RW 1600 C also features Kuhn’s well-known 750 mm
aluminium pre-stretchers with cone-shaped outer ends, automatic film cutter and storage for up to 6 spare film rolls. Depending on local circumstances, crop conditions and storage periods, the operator can easily and quickly adjust the number of film layers applied to each bale. The film is prestretched by a standard setting of 70% to give excellent film coverage and to reduce film usage.
Kuhn expands forage harvesting range New fixed chamber round baler introduced. uhn’s new FB 2130 fixed chamber round baler is the latest model to be introduced to the company’s comprehensive forage harvesting range. Key developments on from earlier models include a wider 2.3 metre pick-up, an enhanced crop flow and forage chopping system and a new automated control facility. These advances are designed to contribute to higher work rates from the baler without compromising the consistent shape and density of the 122 cm wide and 125 cm diameter bales. The wide pick-up roller is designed to ensure a homogenous crop flow across the full width and is suitable for short forages as well as having the capacity for bulky crops. A minimal
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distance between the pick-up and the intake system limits the opportunity for blockages. Intake and centring augers are combined on the same rotor to create a simple maintenance-free system that allows high speed operations without crop damage. Hydraulic drop-floor technology and a manually operated rotor drive disengagement clutch help to avoid stoppages due to blockages. The FB 2130 is available with non-chopping rotor intake (Optifeed) or with the 14-knife Opticut forage chopping system that allows greater bale density and the flexibility of varying the chop length between 45 and 70mm depending on crop type. Kuhn has introduced its AutoPlus system on the FB 2130
Lower Quinton Garages Ltd
The feeding and bedding workhorse
for improved and easier baler control from the tractor cab. With an easily visible screen and bale counter, this device controls the pick-up and the forage chopping as well as the binding system and number of binding tours. The FB 2130 is available with
twine binding, net binding or a combination of both. Additional options include a bale kicker, automatic chain lubrication system, hydraulic rotor disengagement, pivoting pick-up wheels and various tyre configurations.
Craggs of Conder Green
Goose Lane, Upper Quinton Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 8SX Tel: 01789 720265
Thurnam Mill Buildings, Conder Green Lancaster LA2 0BD Tel: 01524 741405
www.lqglitd.co.uk
www.craggsofcondergreen.co.uk
forage harvesting I livestock husbandry I arable I landscape maintenance
forage harvesting I livestock husbandry I arable I landscape maintenance
be strong, be KUHN
be strong, be KUHN
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Harvesting reliability
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 25
| Pig & Poultry
New Pig & Poultry initiative launched Aims to boost the future of our pig & poultry industry by encouraging the public to think and buy British. roducers, processors and suppliers are being called on to promote the best of British food and farming as part of an initiative to boost sales of home-grown pork, poultry and eggs. The 2012 British Pig and Poultry Fair’s ‘Champion Pork and Poultry Initiative’ is urging producers to help tell the public about why they should choose British. By doing things like displaying banners, hosting farm visits and using social media, the Initiative wants farmers to do their bit to tell to consumers about the highwelfare, excellent quality produce British farmers have to offer. It also wants pig and poultry producers to tell the public how they are working to protect the environment and making an important contribution to the British economy. The Champion Pork and Poultry Initiative will be officially launched at the Royal Agricultural Society’s British Pig and Poultry Fair, which will take place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, on 15 and 16 May. Visitors to the Fair will be
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provided with advice and ideas on how to talk to consumers about British produce, such as how to organise school visits, getting media coverage and using social media. Nick Bragg, who produces 820,000 birds a year on his broiler unit in South Petherton, Somerset, hosts more than 1000 school children and holds open evenings on his farm. “A huge part of my job as a farmer is to help people understand where food comes from and break down some of the barriers that exist between producers and consumers,” he said. “Visitors expect broilers to be in cages, but once they enter the sheds they are generally astounded in a good way. “As well as helping show people how British poultry is produced, it gives me a real buzz to see people learning and enjoying my farm.” Event Partners ABN are also doing their bit, rolling out the Red Tractor meat quality mark across their fleet of lorries - which cover over 6.4 million road miles a year. “The Red Tractor scheme is a
great platform to tell consumers about the quality of British meat and encourage it into consumers’ shopping baskets,” said Nigel Lee, ABN business development manager. Alice Bell, assistant director of RASE events, said the Initiative would help boost the profile of British producers who had been struggling in the face of rising input costs and poor prices. “Consumers have many misconceptions about pig and poultry production and that a little information goes a long way to helping them make informed choices,” she added. “We have so much to tell about the way we are improving our environmental credentials to provide affordable, good quality food while protecting the British countryside. “Everyone in the industry can take some simple steps to do their bit and help raise awareness of British pork and poultry. If everyone does a little we can achieve a lot.” 5 things to tell consumers about British pig, poultry and egg production:
• We produce the delicious, safe, affordable food that millions of people enjoy every day • The health and welfare of our pigs and chickens is our number one priority • We care for the environment • Sustainability is important to us • Pig and poultry production is important to the economy 5 top ideas to Champion Pork & Poultry • Display a banner on the edge of your farm • Write an article for your local newspaper • Arrange a farm visit by local schools or community groups • Use social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to spread the word • Get coverage on local radio • engage with your local customers, restaurants and supermarkets to encourage them to stock British For more ideas and resources visit the Pig and Poultry website www.pigandpoultry.org.uk or come along to the resource centre at the Fair.
New Production Director for MPP Midland Pig Producers appoint Trevor Digby to the board. ne of the best known pig production companies in the country, Staffordshirebased Midland Pig Producers (MPP), has revealed the appointment of Trevor Digby as its new Production Director. Welcoming Trevor to the Board, fellow director James Leavesley said that the appointment was richly deserved and took into account Trevor's unstinting commitment to the company's ongoing development.
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"Trevor has been a longstanding and important member of the management team and his contribution has not gone unnoticed," he said. "He has risen to all the challenges that we have put to him over the years and full board membership is well deserved." Trevor, who has worked for the organisation since 1990, became Production Manager in 2003, overseeing a great deal of the progressive development for
which MPP is known. Saying that he was absolutely delighted at the news and more than happy to take up his seat on the Board, he added: "This is a challenging period for pig farming and we need to put all our efforts into sustaining, and hopefully growing, the production of British pig meat. Over 60% of British pig meat is now imported from the EU, where welfare standards are nowhere near those of the UK, for reasons of economy. I would like
to see the demand for British raised pig meat increase in the coming months, but that will only happen if we can produce home grown pigs competitively. "MPP has some ambitious plans for the future and I'm proud to be in a position to play a part in those plans."
DISINFECTANT AND CLEANERS STEVE BIRCHALL Poultry House Cleaning Services
A wide selection of disinfectants and cleaners ALWAYS IN STOCK All types of poultry houses washed and disinfected
Tel: 01257 274483 • Mob: 07850 838172 www.stevebirchall.co.uk roosterman1@btinternet.com
26 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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| Pig & Poultry
Salmonella disinfection for UK producers Powerful protection for British pig and poultry. aniblanc® D, from Lhoist UK, is the DEFRA approved, lime-based sanitisation product for the poultry and pig market, helping fight salmonella and many other bacterial infections, including Coccodiosis and Brachyspira. Saniblanc® D is especially designed for disinfection for both indoor and outdoor applications. Being a natural, chemical-free product it is ideal for use outside without any risk of ground pollution. Regular use of Saniblanc® D has shown to be an effective method of maintaining excellent hygiene standards both indoors and outdoors, areas notoriously difficult to keep clean and pathogen free. Saniblanc® D is powerful and efficient, disinfecting on a number of microbiological levels. Its lime constituent increases the alkalinity of the topsoil. After spreading, the soil’s pH increases to 12. High pH inhibits the growth of gastrointestinal bacteria pathogens and neutralises faecal coliform and salmonella. When Saniblanc® D comes into
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contact with moisture it reacts exothermically – in other words, it raises the temperature of the top soil at the microbiological level. This renders inactive a number of pathogenic bacteria including salmonella typhimurium and worm parasites. Dangerous microbes are further disabled thanks to Saniblanc® D’s ability to dry the top soil, so depriving the microbes of the moisture in which they thrive. Not only is Saniblanc® D ecologically friendly, it is economical, too and has a longlasting effect, remaining effective for up to three months depending on weather conditions. Using Saniblanc® D could not be easier. The ground is soaked and dry Saniblanc® D powder is then sprinkled at specific dosage levels. Just 24 hours later, when the thermal reaction is completed, livestock can be safely introduced into the treated area. For more information on Saniblanc® D, contact Derek Thompson on 01298 768 670 or derek.thompson@lhoist.com
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 27
| Buildings
Agricultural Buildings Show Another successful event in 2012. eminars on planning, CE marking and a wide range of other issues, alongside an exhibition including leading manufacturers and suppliers, provided visitors to the recent Agricultural Buildings Show with the advice they needed to make informed investment decisions. Tim Broomhead, South East Regional Surveyor with the CLA, had the unenviable task of explaining the impending changes to the National Planning Policy Framework at exactly the same time the actual announcement was being made in Parliament. But, he said, while he couldn’t confirm the fine details, in general the CLA did not expect the ‘draft’ policy to change substantially. “There is undoubtedly a need to reform planning policy,” he said. “and the draft looks set to simplify the current document from over 1,000 pages to around 50. That has to be good for everyone. Government has a pro-growth agenda and it needs to address a chronic housing shortage and acknowledges there is a real need to develop business in the rural economy.” He warned, however, the highly publicised phrase about ‘the presumption in favour of sustainable development’ in the draft policy is easily misunderstood. It is not even a new concept, he added. “It is based on the UN ‘Brundtland’ document that says: Sustainable development means development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future governments to meet their own needs,” he explained. Essentially sustainable developments must take account of three key elements: Economic, Social and Environmental. “The difficulty for
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farmers and landowners, we see, is that this is very much an ‘urban-based’ policy. There is real concern that, in the countryside, it will become unbalanced with economic and social parts playing second fiddle to the ‘environmental’ element, which is in danger of taking a higher priority simply because of the development’s location.” He also warned the audience to look carefully at how the new ‘infrastructure levy’ is being applied by local councils. “Again this is an urban-centric device, that is supposed to be used to pay for new facilities required by new housing, factories and shops. It is charged on a £/m² basis and each individual authority can set its own rate. Although it is not mandatory, we don’t expect many cash-strapped councils not to impose the levy and some have already set levies at £100/m²! I don’t need to tell you that could double the cost of a farm building. "The CLA is working hard to address this issue, but because decisions are made so locally we need farmers and landowners, as individuals and through local groups, to lobby their local authorities. They need to explain that farms cannot be grouped together in the same bracket as industrial and urban developments and must be provided with, preferably an exemption, or a £0/m² levy. This has been achieved already in some areas already.” Those looking to invest in new buildings for farm use need to look carefully at the quality of the structure they are considering, said Tony Hutchinson of the Rural and Industrial Design and Buildings Association (RIDBA). While the mandatory CE marking of buildings has been put back another year, until July 2014, existing specification standards will still apply and
buyers need to ensure their proposed structures comply. “Up to 10,000 buildings collapsed in the recent harsh winters, due to high snow and wind loadings. While some were very old and rickety, some were fairly new and one had only just been completed. The British Standard BS 5502 sets the standard, but this comes in various levels with the most common being Class 2 – with a minimum design life of 20 years. “I’m am fairly sure most buyers would expect to use their investment for longer than that. The higher BS 5502 Class 1 provides for a minimum design life of 50 years, but to gain this extra quality and longevity will probably only add about 10-20% to the cost of the structure. So, surely it makes sense to go for the higher specification? Similarly it is worth ensuring the structure is constructed to be able support PV panels, even if they are not being fitted at the same time. It costs much less to design for this at the start than to reinforce a roof after it has been erected.”-
Addington Fund helps farmers in crisis Support available for financial hardship when no-one else cares. he Addington Fund provides homes for farming families needing to leave the industry and emergency grants in times of hardship. The Fund was set up as the Churches’ response to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), when it distributed grants totalling £10.3 million to over 22,000 applicants. Now in its 11th year, the Fund continues to support viable farming families experiencing financial hardship due to circumstances affecting the business which are completely out of their control. The Fund’s Trustees’ Discretionary Fund distributes grants of up to £2,000. In recent years the charity set up a fodder bank in the disastrous floods of 2007, and assisted the many businesses affected by the demise of Dairy Farmers of Britain. It has also helped where animal disease restrictions have a
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negative effect on the business and in times of personal tragedy. The Charity also run a Strategic Rural Housing Scheme providing homes for families needing to exit or retire from the industry with no other option available to them. To date the Scheme has supported 209 families, and currently owns 41 houses nationally. Sir Don Curry launched the Strategic Rural Housing Scheme in 2002. It addresses the situation where farmers have to leave the business and, in doing so, lose their home. In many cases there is no suitable housing available locally. For most the days of the final farm sale financing the purchase of a house in the village have long gone. Affordable rented housing can be difficult to find, particularly in rural areas. In developing this housing initiative the Fund has moved from a grant giving activity that could have ceased overnight, to the
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long-term responsibility of properties and, even more crucially, people. It is therefore essential the Fund is sustainable. Rental income from properties is sufficient to cover the basic administration of the Fund and the costs of the property portfolio. This allows all donations to be invested in further properties, adding to the asset base of the charity. When a property is no longer required, it will be sold and the money available for another purchase. Thus every donation received will have a real and lasting effect. In addition The Trevorva Barns project in Cornwall provides affordable housing specifically for
those who work in, or are retiring from, land-based employment. The Ruthvoes Farm Project is the latest initiative of Addington Fund to support the farming community. The affordable units will create new business opportunities across the age spectrum and invigorate a local rural community strongly influenced by second-home ownership. The Addington Fund is one of the Farming Help charities. For further information please contact Ian Bell, Fund Director: ianbell@addingtonfund.org.uk 01926 620135 or visit www.addingtonfund.org.uk
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| Buildings
Large building mushrooms with Cemsix High quality finish blends an immense building into the natural landscape. embrit’s Cemsix corrugated sheeting has provided a high quality roofing and façade material for a large-scale agricultural building in Hampshire. The impressive-sized building features a 5° low pitched roof and is the largest installation of Cemsix in the UK. Supplied in olive green, Cemsix cover 4000m2 of roof with another 2000m2 of façade and provides a durable and weatherproof material that blends seamlessly into the landscape. The building is owned by Tunnel Tech Ltd, a compost business established in 1985 and the largest supplier of mushroom substrate in the UK. Located on the large Leckford estate, the building is used to house pasteurisation tunnels for the production of mushroom compost. Built by Ashridge Construction Ltd, HCS Cladding & Construction Ltd, based in Lincolnshire was in charge of installing the Cemsix for Tunnel Tech. “We needed a new roof that kept the profile as low as possible to keep the building’s height low for our neighbours.” explains Tim Harker Director & General Manager of Tunnel Tech Ltd “We also needed a material that could match the clients colour and material specification. Cembrit’s Cemsix was a perfect match for us because of the available colours and its durability, not to mention the good delivery service Cembrit provide. We are impressed with the high quality finish that blends an immense building into the natural landscape.”
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Pete Hockin Contracts Director at HCS Cladding was also impressed with the service Cembrit provided; “‘Cembrit provided an excellent service prior to any orders and delivered as per our programme once orders had been placed. We have used Cembrit on other projects since and are completely satisfied with them as one of our suppliers” Fibre cement has the advantage of being slightly porous. This means that high levels of water vapour or humidity within agricultural buildings can be absorbed by the sheets and gradually released to the atmosphere, rather than condensing on the under side of the roof and dropping back onto the crop. In effect the Cemsix sheets are helping create passive environmental control for the buildings interiors. Cemsix sheets are ideal for agricultural, commercial and industrial buildings, robust and practical requiring no maintenance to preserve its strength. The durable and weatherproof sheets are not affected by destructive fungi, vermin or insects, so will not rot or decay; and are available in natural grey, matt black and ten attractive pre-coloured options. Offered in a standard imperial 6 inch profile it is strengthened with strategically placed polypropylene reinforcement strips. These are incorporated within the fibre-cement sheet to comply with BS and H&S requirements for site safety and fragility. Cemsix also conforms to the necessary fire safety requirements being a Class 0 surfaced
material with an EXT.S.AA rating. Available in a variety of sheet lengths, the Cemsix range also offers a wide range of corrugated sheet accessories including ventilation to satisfy any roof design. Cemsix has full BBA certification: 03/4049 and a warranty is available on request. Using skills built up over 80 years, Cembrit offers a wide range of cladding panels, corrugated sheet and natural and man-made roofing slate. Quality levels at group factories are rigorously maintained to high standards with many products manufactured under the control of ISO 9001 and British Board of Agrément. Cembrit UK is a member of Cembrit Holding A/S (formerly the Dansk Eternit Holding A/S) of Denmark, one of Europe’s major building material producers of fibre reinforced cement products for the roofing and cladding industry.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 29
| Buildings
Farm Building Buying Guide launched by RIDBA Impending CE Marking requirements make compliance top of the list. IDBA and the NFU have launched a guide to help farmers when they buy buildings. A buying guide which helps farmers ensure they get a farm building that is properly fabricated, constructed, and safe and appropriate for use, has been launched by RIDBA (the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association) in partnership with the NFU. Free copies of the four-page A5 guide were available at the Agricultural Buildings Show last month when RIDBA experts talked about one of the biggest issues on the farm building calendar - the compulsory introduction next year of CE Marking. In the seminar Tony Hutchinson, RIDBA National Secretary, explained the background to the advice and provided more details on how important it is that the advice is followed. It was the impending CE issue, which could impact on the price of new farm buildings, and the major collapse of
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several farm buildings in the heavy snowfalls of winter 2010/11, that prompted RIDBA to publish the guide with the help of the NFU. CE Marking will apply to all steel, concrete and timber frames used in the UK from July 2014 when it will become a criminal offense to supply a frame without a CE Mark. Complying with this legislation will prove costly for manufacturers and fabricators and some may choose to pass that cost onto their client - farmers. As well as CE Marking, the RIDBA guide provides information on meeting Building Regulations, British Standards and Health and Safety obligations
30 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
and whether or not planning permission is required for specific farm buildings. It also advises on design classifications and build considerations, self-builds, insurance, and loadings including renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines. RIDBA secretary Tony Hutchinson said: "The guide aims to give farmers the knowledge to ask the right questions when buying a farm building so they get a building that is properly fabricated, constructed, safe and most appropriate for
their intended use. "The CE Marking issue alone demonstrates how important it is for farmers to use contractors which are reputable and competent in health and safety and we can help them find one in their area."
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| Fuels
Fuel oil storage guidelines and advice Thinking of installing a fuel store or making changes to an existing installation? f you are planning to substantially alter your fuel oil store, or add a new one then the following will help you meet the requirements of The Water Resources (Control of Pollution)(Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) Regulations 2010. These are commonly referred to as SSAFO, and apply in England and Wales. If after reading these notes you're still unsure about your fuel oil management or any other aspect of your farming operation which may be affected by these regulations, please contact the Environment Agency before starting any works. Mistakes can be expensive, or result in additional works being required. What is a fuel oil store? A fuel oil store can be a single tank, multiple tanks, or drums. They can be in one area or spread across your farm. Mobile bowsers or drums temporarily stored alongside mobile plant are exempt from the Regulations but you should still take precautions to prevent and contain spillages. Providing it is stored separately, oil used exclusively for domestic heating or power is covered by other regulations and advice can be obtained from www.oftec.org . Oil stored and used for nonagricultural activities in England, may be subject to The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001. What do the Regulations mean for my oil storage? You have to comply with the SSAFO Regulations where the total quantity of agricultural fuel oil stored on the farm is more than 1,500 litres. You may be exempt if your oil storage was in place before 1991 but please consider bringing your storage up to the regulatory standard. You must notify the Environment Agency in writing about any new, substantially enlarged or substantially reconstructed fuel oil storage at least 14 days before it is first used, but they encourage you to contact them at the design stage. Your notification must include the type of structure and its location. A form can be provided to help you do this or you can download one from the Environment Agency website. Requirements that apply to fuel oil stores The basic requirement is for tanks or drums to be surrounded by an impermeable secondary containment structure or bund. • No part of the system can be within 10 metres of inland freshwaters or coastal waters that
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fuel oil could enter. This includes yard drains and dry ditches, and land drains. • The walls and the base of the secondary containment must be impermeable to oil and water and not have a drain down pipe. • Every part of the oil container must be within the bund. This includes sight gauges, tank draindown valves and shut-off valves associated with fixed or flexible draw-off delivery pipes. • Taps and valves through which oil can be discharged must be within the bund. They must be directed down into it and locked shut when not in use. • Flexible delivery pipes permanently attached to the primary tank must be fitted with a self-closing tap or valve at the end. They must be locked inside the bund when not in use. • The secondary containment / bund, when new, must have a 20year life expectancy with maintenance. What are the different tanks available for oil storage? Not all makes of tank or tank systems meet the requirements of the regulations. Tanks are sold under a variety of names (single skin, double skin, integrally bunded, tank system, or fuel stations etc) and are available in both plastic and metal. The principles of compliance apply to both materials. Plastic tanks are becoming the most commonly installed products on farms. Tank manufacturing and quality standards There are recognised British Standard and trade association tank standards for different types of tank. Tanks should comply with BS EN ISO 9001, and plastic and steel tanks and tank systems manufactured to OFTEC Standards OFS T100 and OFS T200 respectively, meet the British Standard. Your tank manufacturer, supplier or installer should advise you on the minimum design and manufacturing standards under the appropriate accredited quality assurance scheme, but please note that compliance with standards for construction and manufacture doesn’t guarantee compliance with SSAFO. How do I meet the 20-year life expectancy requirement for bunds? Bunds designed and constructed from masonry or reinforced concrete, and rendered with waterproof material, should readily meet this requirement with routine maintenance. Where integrally bunded plastic
tanks are concerned the life expectancy of the bund is essentially the same as the tank. Some tanks have a 10-year guarantee, others have only one year which is renewable after inspection. Evaluating these tanks against the 20-year life expectancy is therefore difficult. You should seek assurance from the manufacturer about the likely maximum life of the product and what maintenance should be undertaken to ensure this. Where the manufacturer can’t provide this information you should consider replacing the facility at the end of the guarantee, or at the end of the guarantee period, seek an annual independent verification that it is suitable for continued use. What happens after I submit proposals to the Environment Agency? They will assess your proposals and the site. In some cases they will visit the site and meet with you or your agent. They will make their assessment clear to you in writing. What happens if an oil spill occurs? Keep a spill kit with commercial sorbent products close to your oil storage to deal with spills, and
make sure you or your staff know how to use it safely. Alternatively use sand, or earth. If you have a spill, take immediate action to stop the oil getting into any drains or watercourses. • Notify the Environment Agency by calling their incident hotline; • If you can, soak up the spilt oil with the contents of your spill kit, without putting yourself in danger; • Don’t hose the spillage down or use any detergents to try to get rid of it as you could make the pollution worse. If oil soaks into the ground, the soil soaked in oil should be removed, by a professional company, so it doesn’t cause long term pollution. Store any materials that are soaked in oil in containers that won’t let the oil run away until it can be correctly and legally disposed of. What happens if pollution occurs? The responsibility for preventing pollution falls to the person with custody or control of the installation. Normally that is you, the farmer. If pollution occurs you may be liable.
TOTALLY ENCLOSED / FULLY BUNDED
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 31
| Grain
Millers from around the world bake their national bread with help from HGCA Helping to develop markets for UK surplus production. kp and uks wheats took centre stage in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, as miller delegates from Algeria, Morocco, Spain and Portugal took part in the 14th Annual BCE Bread Baking Workshop. George Forbes, Chairman of BCE – HGCA’s export arm - said: “These countries have low cereal yields and therefore their demand for imports is high. The Bread Baking Workshop is imperative to give overseas millers a unique hands-on opportunity to experience the quality, suitability and versatility of our wheat. This year we saw a wide range of products from bread sticks to high quality loaves to crepes, which shows how adaptable our flours can be.” The event was part of HGCA’s work to target overseas markets with high import demands for
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milling wheat in order to develop and maintain markets for the UK’s surplus production. Delegates at the workshop represented a combined import demand of approximately 20 million tonnes of wheat. Portuguese miller Paolo Cardoso said of the event: “We learned about working with ukp and uks wheat and how versatile they are. I have attended several Bread Baking Workshops and have been able to follow the evolution of ukp and uks which are extremely consistent products. It is also great opportunity to learn about the different techniques used by other countries.” The workshop was followed by visits to an arable farm in Essex, a central storage co-operative in Cambridgeshire and the grain terminal at Port of Tibury to highlight the strength of the supply chain, including assurance
schemes and traceability, which is important to many overseas markets. Will Streeter, who hosted the farm visit, said: “The delegates were really interested in the farm, and were very surprised at the yields and the efficiency of it all and of the care taken to produce
and store the grain. They were keen to hear about the cost to produce one ton of milling wheat and amazed how we are not part of a big selling group - but still a fundamental part of the food chain.”
New cereal disease management information from HGCA Three topic sheets published. anaging cereal disease is highly topical at this time of year, especially as we start to see some disease creeping into crops. Weather conditions over the coming months will dictate the spread and severity of disease as we move through the season, but managing and reducing the risk of disease development where possible is a crucial part of crop production. HGCA funds research developing new management
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strategies for cereal diseases and has just published three Topic Sheets providing information on yellow rust, eyespot and septoria. Yellow rust is notoriously difficult to control once established in crops and the updated yellow rust Topic Sheet (Topic Sheet 112) provides new information on diversifying variety choices to minimise the spread of disease. The Topic Sheet contains new results on the development of rust races, including the new ‘Warrior
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race’ from the UK Cereal Pathogen Virulence Survey (UKCPVS). The risk of eyespot spread has traditionally been assessed in the spring, looking at the level of disease already in the crop. However, Topic Sheet 111 introduces a new two-stage risk assessment approach integrating agronomic factors in the autumn to generate a risk score for individual fields that can be used alongside visible disease levels in the spring.
Topic Sheet 113 contains the latest information on fungicide choices for managing septoria tritici and discusses the use and importance of anti-resistance strategies to help prolong the useful life of azole and SDHI fungicides. These Topic Sheets, as well as additional information on disease management, are available to download from www.hgca.com/publications
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| Beef Expo
Thursday 24th May, Malvern Showground. ith this year’s Beef Expo Chairman determined that the 2012 show will be the best beef event in Europe, you would be a fool to miss all the action on May 23rd and May 24th. Every trade stand and exhibition at NBA Beef Expo 2012 on Thursday, May 24th will be geared towards the theme “Making a different to your bottom line”. The Three Counties Showground at Malvern, Worcestershire, will be dedicated to trade stands and demonstration areas with a wide range of breed societies, commercial companies, advisory bodies and consultants showing all the products, equipment and services they have on offer to make beef farming as efficient and profitable as possible. It’s where every business-minded producer will be – and we aim to offer something for everyone. The Beef Expo Organising Committee, chaired by local farmer Paul Westaway, is made up entirely of farmers, volunteers and sponsors, including Major Sponsor Lloyds TSB Agriculture, all of whom are focused on putting on a top class event. Mr Westaway says: “It is a great honour to be the Chairman of NBA Beef Expo this year. I’m determined it will be the best beef event in Europe in 2012 and look forward to welcoming you to Malvern in May.” Visitors will also have access to seminars, workshops and clinics, where they can pick up new information and quiz the experts on a wide range of topics from TB to forecasting the future beef price. In addition, changes have been made this year to clear the main showring for the ever-popular Question Time. This means there will be more space for visitors to get involved in the hour-long session with top industry spokespeople, quizzing them on the topics that matter. Reflecting the ever-widening pool of beef supply, Beef Expo 2012 will also have a bigger-and-better area dedicated to beef from the dairy herd, showcasing the best methods and tools for exploiting this part of the beef sector. So from top suckler cows to day old dairy calves, every element of the beef industry will be showcased at Beef Expo. “Top stock promise a hot competition in the showring” This year’s National Spring Spectacular Show promises to be a tremendous spectacle, with more than 100 of the UK’s finest prime cattle competing for the title of supreme champion. The man in charge of splitting hairs between the top competitors will be Pearce McNamee, a commercial cattle enthusiast from County Donegal, in the far North West of the Republic of Ireland. He keeps a select number of show cattle himself and is well known on the show circuit, as a competitor and respected judge. He will start off the judging at 4pm on the Wednesday evening, doing all the native classes before starting on the continental breeds first thing on Thursday morning, breaking for lunch before naming his show champions by the middle of Thursday afternoon. “Big cash prizes to be won in the stockjudging classes” A prize pot in the region of £2,000 will be split between the winners in the stockjudging competitions, with a top prize of £400 in the open class and £200 in the special classes for visitors of YFC age. Just head to the Eblex stand for a chance to compete – and take advantage of all the advice from
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Eblex at the same time, including carcase classification and EBVs clinics and an area dedicated to making the most from muck and slurry. Eblex will also be welcoming entries for the annual farm butchery competition, open to butchers working in farm shops in England. More details and entries online. “Young Show Stars to compete for a trip of a lifetime to Canada” A very exciting feature of this year’s Expo is a special competition for 14-23 year olds to showcase their cattle preparation, promotion, stockjudging and showing skills. A panel of four expert judges has been put together to appraise the youngsters (working in teams of three) and chose the best to go to the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, Canada, to compete in a similar competition there. Breed societies, Young Farmers Clubs and other agricultural organisation are invited to put forward teams – and we have already had a lot of interest, including an entry from a Canadian team wanting to suss out the UK talent. “Spend the pre-show day viewing top farms and top genetics” The day before the main event (Wednesday, May 23rd) is an action packed day – and those visitors able to come to Malvern early are promised a line-up of exclusive events. The day will kick off at 10am, with two farm tours planned in the local area. The one is home of Beef Expo Chairman Paul Westaway, where he invite visitors to view his 230-head of cattle and consider many elements of beef production – from his herd of pedigree Aberdeen-Angus suckler cows, to elite genetics used within his AI sales business, to beef from the dairy herd with his Angus cross Holsteins heifers and Holsteins bulls, which are currently involved in a Blade Farming forage feeding trial. At the other farm, father-and-son Charles and Roger Warner will tell visitors why they chose cattle on everything other than looks, as ability to finish fast and well is the priority with the 1,000-head of cattle they buy in and fatten each year. Later that afternoon, at 4pm, an exclusive part of the showground will unlocked, with an open invitation to UK and international farmers to get a sneakpreview of our country’s best cattle and genetics. This UK Genetics Showcase will feature the native breeds championship of the National Spring Spectacular Show, plus a special “grand parade” in which breed societies will present their top cattle for use in the commercial herd here and overseas. The annual Beef Industry dinner will follow hot on its heels, with everyone welcome to purchase a ticket for an evening of fine food, good company and an entertaining guest speaker. Dinner tickets are £35, with a discount if a whole table is booked. The farm tours are £15 and the UK Genetics Showcase is free. “Book your tickets now” Beef Expo tickets can be bought at a special advance price of £12 (£8 for NBA members) via the website. Also visit www.beefexpo.co.uk for more information on all the attractions and competitions, and to book trade stands and enquire about sponsorship. Alternatively contact Event Organise Euan Emslie on 01430 441870, 07718 908523 or euan@nationalbeefassociation.com
Beef Expo 2012
NBA Beef Expo 2012
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| Beef Expo
Telsol addresses premium livestock health Essential trace elements are necessary for maximum productivity. eaders of this article may feel that all mineral blouses are the same and supply trace elements to maintain the animals need for trace elements or stop deficiency. The facts are that a number of very important trace elements can’t be stored and these are Iodine (I) and Cobalt (Co) these elements must be fed daily or realised over the life of the bolus, in a form which is available to the animal. Rumen pH plays a major role on the availability of certain chemical forms of copper such as copper oxide which can’t be made available until the abomasum, where the pH is 2.2, thus not being able to work in the same way as CoseIcure or Cosecure Cattle POM - VPS Suppliers of trace element products should tell you about the individual elements and how they are released and what chemical form the quoted trace elements are in and where they become available to the animal. One of the most discussed elements by livestock farmers and vets is copper; and the so called
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antagonist of Iron (Fe), Molybdenum (Mo) and Sulphur (S) as many people believe that these elements make copper unavailable or induce a secondary deficiency. Current research states that this not the case and the elements of S & Mo are combining in the rumen to form thiomolybdate which enters blood and acts in its own right to depress fertility. Thiomolybdate toxicity will depress the ability of the stock to come into heat or hold in calve. Iron also plays a major role in this problem and all action should be taken to reduce the iron intake. CoseIcure Cattle from the Cosecure range of boluses is the only product which will supply a unique form of copper which acts as a sponge to soak up the elements of Mo & S and stop them being absorbed and doing damage. The manufactures of CoseIcure and Cosecure Cattle POM – VPS manufacture only bolus which delivers copper into the rumen to act against molybdenum and sulphur and stop it forming thiomolybdate which will cause damage.
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Telsol Limited will always advise that blood tests are undertaken using the service of the independent laboratory service at Nottingham Veterinary School. This can be carried in conjunction with your veterinary surgeon, forage mineral, and all other mineral inputs are to be taken in to consideration before a treatment plan is undertaken to tackle a
problem with thiomolybdate or mineral in balances. The Telsol technical team will always be pleased to help with any advice on the subject of ruminant mineral nutrition. If you require more information please contact: Dr Stewart Telfer 0113 2260666 or Pete Bone 07785 368591.
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| Beef Expo
NBA Beef Expo already seeing encouraging signs for exports of UK genetics UK breeders eager to find opportunities now that exports are an option. he multi-million pound export market for UK cattle genetics is to be given a boost at the National Beef Association’s Beef Expo 2012, as organisers prepare to host overseas buyers from Brazil, Germany, Poland and Ireland, as well as newcomers Armenia, Georgia and Serbia. They will be invited to the farm tours, UK Genetics Showcase and preliminary National Spring Spectacular Show judging on May 23rd, as well as the Expo itself on the 24th, which is supported by Lloyds TBS as the major sponsor. According to NBA co-ordinator Henry Lewis, executive chairman of British Livestock Genetics (BLG), many will be at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire, to see the sterling work done by UK breeders while exports were limited, eager to find opportunities now that exports are an option again. He says: “The UK needs exports to thrive. While the temporary suspension of exports was an obstacle, our breeders did what they still do best and carried on improving UK livestock. “We have been working with Eblex and BLG to bring this to the attention of overseas buyers and thereby broaden export opportunities. For many visitors, the UK Genetics Showcase at Beef Expo 2012 will be the first window of opportunity to view those improvements.
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“There is no getting away from the reality – the UK cattle industry needs export opportunities to create and maintain a competitive edge. It affords the sector the widest possible marketing opportunities, which add multi-millions each year to revenue.” The combination of the farm tours, UK Genetics Showcase and National Spring Spectacular Show will offer visitors something unique, says Beef Expo committee member Rob Wills. “By promoting pedigree and crossbred cattle within the one arena we will demonstrate the hard-nosed commercial reality. That matters because it is where profit is made.” To date 19 breed societies have confirmed attendance at the event, as well as a host of genetic suppliers all eager to promote UK livestock to domestic and overseas buyers. The majority of the breed societies will participate in the UK Genetics Showcase on the 23rd, which will show off the best of British to visitors from across the UK, Europe and the world, including a special grand parade of the range of genetics available in this country. Away from the ringside and trade exhibition areas, Beef Expo 2012 will provide the opportunity for informal talks between breeders and buyers to continue at the annual Beef Industry Dinner, held in the showground’s
Severn Hall on the evening of May 23. Diners will sit down to beef supplied by the Hereford Cattle Society before being entertained by Deryc Rhys – a Carmarthenshire dairy farmer and after dinner speaker of renown – ahead of the Beef Stockman of the Future award ceremony. Tickets for the dinner cost £35 each, and can be booked individually or as whole tables at www.beefexpo.co.uk, where details of the farm tours and the show can also be found. Alternatively, tickets can be secured by contacting Euan Emslie, NBA Beef Expo 2012 Organiser, on 01430 441870 or emailing euan@nationalbeefassociation.com.
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| Beef Expo
Use of Healthy Hooves to reduce lameness on a UK dairy farm Routine footbathing can help control digital dermatitis. ameness is highly prevalent in dairy cattle and has significant economic and welfare implications. Approximately 2025% of all cases of lameness worldwide are attributable to digital dermatitis (DD), and in the UK some 70% of dairy farms are affected with the disease. Digital dermatitis is a multifactorial disease defined as a circumscribed, erosive to papillomatous, intensely painful lesion that is often surrounded by a ridge of hyperkeratotic skin bearing hypertrophied hairs and is associated with lameness. Laven and Logue (2006) critically reviewed footbath formulations that are commonly used in the UK for treatment of digital dermatitis, and found that, despite the array of substances used in footbaths, very few had been tested in controlled studies, and that their mode of use was
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subjective and efficacy unknown. A recent study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of using Healthy Hooves as a footbath solution, compared with normal farm practice of using a copper sulphate solution, on the incidence and severity of lameness in dairy cattle, and in particular on digital dermatitis. The study was conducted by Lindsay Heasman and Matt Dobbs of Westpoint Veterinary Group, with Barry Clements of Healthy Hooves Europe, Pre-treatment Solutions. A total of 84 animals were used in the study. From the start, each animal in the herd was footbathed on a twice-daily basis for 10 consecutive milkings each week (Monday afternoon to Saturday morning inclusive). A longitudinally split footbath was used, with the control treatment (5% copper sulphate solution, CS) used in the left-hand side of the footbath (ie
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each animal’s front left and hind left feet were exposed to CS) and Healthy Hooves (2% Healthy Hooves solution plus 2% copper sulphate, HH) used in the righthand side (ie each animal’s front right and hind right feet were exposed to HH). The allocation of treatment solution to each side of the footbath was randomly decided by the toss of a coin. The CS solution was changed daily, while the HH solution was changed three times per week. The preparation and changing of all footbath solutions was performed by study staff. The study ran for 12 weeks, from 1st September to 25th November 2010 (day 84). Before it began, each animal was mobility scored and had all four feet lifted, trimmed where appropriate, and scored for the presence and severity of digital dermatitis, to enable baseline data to be collected. Mobility scoring was then performed every four weeks until the end of the study. An additional mobility score was collected 10 weeks after the completion of the study. An assessment of the presence and severity of digital dermatitis was also made on the final day. During the mobility scoring assessment, each cow was observed walking on a level concrete surface, and scored on a scale of 0-3, using the recognised DairyCo lameness scale. For cows scored 2 or 3, the lame leg was also recorded. During the digital dermatitis assessment, and where digital dermatitis was present, this was scored as mild (Score 1), moderate (Score 2) or severe (Score 3). RESULTS The results of the mobility scoring clearly showed a reduction in the number of lame cows (ie scores 2 and 3) by day 28 of the
study, and that this reduction was maintained for the duration of the study. Interestingly, 10 weeks after it was completed, the percentage of lame cows in the herd had increased from 18.1% to 24.7%. Before the start of the study, 28 (33.3%) of enrolled animals had DD affecting at least one foot. DD lesions were recorded on a total of 35 feet, with 13 of these being on the right and 22 on the left. By the final day, only three animals (3.6%) had persistent DD lesions. The effects of each test article on reducing the severity of digital dermatitis were analysed, but were found not to be significantly different from one another (MannWhitney test. P > 0.05), as each treatment virtually eliminated digital dermatitis. SUMMARY This study clearly demonstrated that footbathing with Healthy Hooves controlled DD in the study animals as effectively as using 5% copper sulphate, while using significantly less copper sulphate. The amount of copper sulphate used in the CS group was 300kg (5kg per 100 litres, changed five times per week for 12 weeks), compared with 72kg in the HH group (2kg per 100 litres, changed three times per week for 12 weeks), representing a 76% reduction in the amount of copper sulphate used. There is growing concern that the use of copper sulphate footbath solutions contributes to the accumulation of copper on soil, as footbath water is typically discarded into the manure lagoon and therefore spread onto land. This study provides further evidence that routine footbathing, coupled with a regular foot care programme, can control digital dermatitis and reduce the incidence of lameness in dairy cattle.
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| Beef Expo
Maximise income potential for your stock Premium livestock performance from Natural Stockcare Ltd. or over 30 years Natural Stockcare Ltd. has been looking after the farming industry. With over 50 experienced distributors around the UK and Ireland we deliver swift, expert knowledge to all of our customers – even on your own farm. Natural Stockcare Ltd. provides every farmer with the ability to maximise their income potential for their stock! We manufacture to GMP standards and our purpose-built premises are MCA licensed, as well as ISO 9002 approved. We are extremely proud to use pharmaceutical grade vitamins along with minerals in our powders, pastes and liquid drenches which are totally soluble and bio-available to the animal. The farming industry has experienced so many radical changes over the many years we have operated, we have ensured that we have followed these changes and are proud to continue catering to the industry’s needs and aspirations. We are constantly reviewing and developing our products with our team of expertly qualified ruminant nutritionists and our product development chemist, meeting and exceeding the expectations of the modern farming industry. “We had been showing for about 2 years without any success, since meeting up with Tom Stevenson from Natural Stockcare and taking his advice we started feeding our animals with Natural Stockcare products. Now
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after 3 years we are picking up a lot more prize tickets, finishing reserve overall champion and champion baby beef at The Welsh Winter Fair in 2011. I would advise anybody to contact Tom Stevenson for their very own specialised feed programme.” - Yvonne and Dylan Hughes (Hewes), North Wales. “After I started using Natural Stockcare products the fertility of my sheep has greatly
increased. Year upon year I have had less barren ewes and tighter lambings. My lambing figures mirror the scanning figure.” – Malcolm Coubrough, Motherwell. At Natural Stockcare we are proud of our history but even more proud of the partnerships and services we provide and will continue to provide to our farming industry.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 37
| Energy
CLA lobbying success for on-farm renewables No planning permission required for certain energy projects. he CLA says the Government had shown its commitment to cutting red tape and simplifying the planning system by allowing certain on-farm renewable projects to be built without planning permission. The Association said the proposals for permitted
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development rights that allow agricultural and forestry businesses to build renewable energy projects would help farmers find alternative sources of income from farm and forestry waste products. CLA Midlands Rural Adviser Donna Tavernor said: “This really is good news for the rural
economy. The CLA has lobbied for permitted development rights for five years so that land managers can use farm and forestry buildings to house forestry biomass burners, on-farm anaerobic digesters and hydro turbines without applying for complex and costly planning permission.
“The Government has encouraged farmers to diversify since 2007. This announcement has removed the barriers of planning permissions and delivered a green policy that really benefits the wider rural economy as well as allowing farmers and foresters to develop their businesses sustainably.”
density compacting controls on the filling machine. The oxygen supply is replenished by forced aeration and eliminates the labour intensive need to turn. Temperature probes monitor when the airflow needs adjusting to maintain proper temperatures. Moisture is adjusted at the time of filling the EcoPOD, or added to the total mixture upon blending. Odour containment is assured within the sealed EcoPOD. The valve and aeration control process within the EcoPOD maintains aerobic activity during the composting cycle, making it possible to individualise the composting process. This requires a minimal amount of labour and supervision. With all material contained inside there is no exposure to weather and the problems of wind blown litter and pathogen aerosol release are eliminated. Any leachate is also contained within the EcoPOD, and can be evaporated prior to opening using the forced aeration system. The area needed to compost is determined by the volume of waste material to be processed. An EcoPOD requires one-third of the space needed for a windrow. Eleven 3 metre x 60 metre PODs fit on a one-acre site and based on our recommended density of material, would hold approximately 6000 cubic metres. The site requirements are as simple as a slope of a few degrees with a gravel or hard-packed surface.
Asphalt or concrete are not necessary, but will improve access efficiencies. The EcoPOD system provides a cycle time of as little as 8-10 weeks after which the EcoPOD is opened and the stabilised compost removed and left for 3060 days for maturation. Three composting cycles per year are therefore possible on the same area of land. EcoPODs are increasingly being used by water treatment and other sludge handlers as a secure storage method for sludge or sewage cake materials - either prior to further treatment, or before the sludge can be spread to land. It’s particularly useful for times when materials need to be stockpiled during operational difficulty such as plant maintenance or during a period of inclement weather. Other users prefer the flexibility that bagging the sludge offers, in preference to other methods of storage. The UK provider of the EcoPOD is ‘AB Systems (UK) Ltd’, directed by David Wynne. David has over 24 years’ experience of the AgBag storage system, which is also used as an in-vessel
Composting in an EcoPOD Eliminates many composting concerns. gBag Systems offer the EcoPOD - a unique waste management solution that makes composting simple, via a low-cost, contained system using forced aeration. It eliminates many composting concerns including odour and litter complaints; weather-related problems; leachate control and high operating costs. It utilises LDPE plastic which is completely recyclable. The EcoPOD can be either 1.5 metres or 3 metres in
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diameter and up to 60 metres in length. When full, it is sealed at each end to prevent leachate loss to the ground. Dark green in colour, the EcoPOD blends with surroundings and attracts solar heat. Depending on the size used, an EcoPOD will hold up to 550 cubic metres of shredded and mixed materials. Moisture content, oxygen supply and temperature are all fully controlled within the EcoPOD. Free air space is controlled by
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“It eliminates many composting concerns including odour and litter complaints; weather-related problems; leachate control and high operating costs.” www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Energy
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 39
| Energy
Solar Special
The future for on-farm solar The revision of the FiT scheme has particularly impacted solar installations - so is this renewable energy source still viable? he Government announced back in February changes to the renewable energy Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme designed to bring “greater predictability and transparency” to investors. Rural businesses and those with multiple photovoltaic, or solar, installations, such as farms, should welcome the proposed changes, says accountants and business advisers James Cowper, as the energy savings, payback time and resulting profits continue to remain an attractive investment platform. The changes include: A new tariff of 21p/kWh is proposed from 1 April this year for domestic sized solar installations, rather than the 43p/kWh currently on offer. The new tariff will apply to all new schemes certified from 3 March. Those installing solar on or after 1st April will be required to have an energy efficiency rating of ‘D’, rather than the previously anticipated ‘C’ rating. A multiple installation tariff at 80% of standard tariffs will be introduced for photovoltaic schemes for those already receiving FiT for existing schemes. However, the threshold for multiple installations has increased from more than 1 installation to 25 or more.
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Fiona Hawkins, a senior manager with James Cowper said: “These changes are being introduced to, amongst other things, create predictability for investors. The Government believes that installation costs are falling and the high FiT rate available to investors is no longer sustainable.” Despite the cut of 50 per cent in the FiT rate, investors can still see returns equivalent to a compound interest rate of almost 5.5 per cent, as illustrated by the following example: A farmer installs a 49.95kWp system certified from 3 March at a cost of £110,000. A total of 40 per cent of electricity generated is used by the farm. The FiT farm scale reduction for a 10-50kW scheme will fall from 32.9p/kWh to 15.2p/kWh. In its first year, the farmer will receive a FiT income of £6,455, together with £790 from exporting energy. The farmer makes a saving of £2,463 on his energy bill, making a total benefit to the farm of £9,708. The total payback time
is just over eight years, and over a 25 year period the farm will make a total profit of £387,000. Fiona adds: “If that same farmer were to invest the £110,000 for 25 years with a compound interest rate of three per cent, he would receive a return of just £120,000. To achieve a return similar to that outlined in our example, the farmer would need a compound interest rate of almost 5.5 per cent.” At the same time, the Government has also announced a consultation on a programme of six-monthly tariff reductions for solar PV and reducing the longterm cost of supporting tariffs from 25 to 20 years. Fiona adds: “Obviously, the actual return and payback will vary depending on the type of panels, their location and orientation. Anyone considering solar energy schemes, or any other renewable energy generation scheme, should first seek independent advice on costs and payback times.”
to Supreme Recent Industry reaction s from Court decision on solar FiT ss Go rt be Ro Conergy's UK MD
Robert Goss, Managing Director of Conergy UK: "This is £1.5bn back in the pockets of people who invested in solar, which is great news for the economy. The government thought they could steamroller what they saw as a small industry but there shouldn't have been any doubt, we don't do regulation without consultation in this country. Since the start of the year the government has realised panels have gone mainstream and they've become much more balanced in their approach to the industry."
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| Energy
10 things that you need to know about Solar PV Systems!!! Solar Power Intl answer the important questions... olar PV systems. The latest and hottest trend in renewable energy generation is reaching near its peak. Suddenly now we all realise that it’s the only way to protect ourselves from ever rising energy bills.
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Why solar? • Solar Power is one of the most reliable and cost effective ways to generate electricity, reduce CO2 emissions and secure an income on both commercial and domestic buildings. By installing a solar PV system you will be generating electricity directly of the sun. • Choosing the right type of panels and inverters is an art. A poor design such as oversized inverter or mismatching panels will reduce the power and efficiency of your system. All resulting in poor performance and lower return on your investment. • Multiple Mppt can improve
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performance under shade conditions and will allow you to install your panels on more than one slope or orientation. • Solar panels are static and silent and require minimal maintenance and come with a lifelong warranty, Along with your installation you can fit a Webbased monitoring system that will allow you to monitor the system performance and to track any faults that may arise in real time. • A solar PV system is considered to be a secure financial investment just like having a small power station in your back garden. And with energy prices going up and up so does the value of your investment grow.
Why now? • The FIT’s are fairly generous at the moment and will secure high return on your investment guarantied for 25 years. • You will be able to consume the electricity generated directly
from your system free of charge and avoid paying your energy supplier => save on your energy bills. • Solar system can make use of any unused space such as roofs and fields or can be fitted as a car port or a field shelter, embedded in your roof or directly over your tiles. • Only an MCS accredited installer can register your installation on the FIT’S scheme with your supplier and allow you to claim and enjoy the payments for the life of the system. • Solar PV Panel prices have dropped by 30% in the last few months so an average 10Kwp system will generate more than £2000 pay back every year that’s 12.5% return on investment secured for 25 years. To find out more please contact us on 01300 345668, email info@solarpowerintl or visit www.solarpowerintl.co.uk
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 41
| Energy
A clear message from Selecta Solar Major solar photovoltaic panel distributor and installer Selecta Systems’ Director Mark Richmond discusses why now the time for farms to invest in Solar PV. hen the government slashed the tariffs for systems smaller than 50kW by more than 50% it was argued that a decent return on investment wasn’t possible any more. In what remains a tough climate for the farming sector, this was another blow as cuts also extended out to larger installations. But the initial outcry that it was too late to benefit from solar and the cuts would ruin the Solar PV industry, were premature. One reason government cut the tariffs was because the returns for investors were getting to high. When assessing the incentive that would be necessary to get people to invest, government were aiming at giving a return of 5% to 6%, something more appealable than an ISA, for example. By the middle of 2011 returns were getting much higher than that, actually creeping up to a maximum of 14% or 15% as costs of both equipment and installation tumbled. Prompting government
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to reduce subsidy and take the heat off other electricity users. Manufacturers reacted to the subsidy change by cutting prices. Meaning both equipment prices and installation prices fell, as installers streamlined their business models and worked to complete installations at the higher rate. In December 2010 an average domestic installation cost around £4,450 per kW. By October 2011 this had fallen by nearly 30%. At the end of March of this year the price of a system has come down by a further, very significant percentage. This means that the returns you can get from solar are getting back towards the levels that were available when government initially announced its slashing of the Feed-in-Tariff scheme. Presenting a lucrative opportunity for the farming community and a sure-fire method to reduce the amount of money farm-holders are paying for their electricity bills.
It’s no surprise then that more and more farm owners are utilising the vast landscapes they own, and the potential they have to draw energy from the sun, to install large scale solar installations to bring bills down and embrace green credentials. It’s not too late and now is the time to act. Positioned at the forefront of the industry Selecta Solar’s experienced team have already been involved in commercial applications related to the farming sector and will survey the roof to confirm its structural strength, asses site orientation, supply PV systems, such as the 50kW, that are competitively priced and offer any information or advice regarding installations. The benefit of a 50kW system is
that it can be easily installed on the majority of farm units without the need for any real modifications, as well as qualifying for the higher feed-in-tariff rate under the current banding, which is 15.2p. Selecta Solar can also provide any advice on the technology, finance opportunities and position of the market to potential customers. Selecta has a network of installation and engineering teams on hand across the UK. With energy costs rising and the farming sector struggling alongside many other sectors, solar power provides immediate benefits for farms of all sizes. For more information about Selecta Solar, contact Selecta on 0121 325 2100
Orta Solar fast becoming a default choice for UK Solar O&M Orta Solar, managed by the team that previously developed & built the UK’s largest Solar PV portfolio to date, has announced a series of new PV Operations & Maintenance contract wins taking its total being maintained now to over 35MW. orking either for the original Engineering Procurement & Construction (EPC) company that built the installation or directly for the solar park’s owners, the company is fast becoming a default choice for UK Solar park electrical maintenance. The company’s initial aim is that by summer 2012 it will be operating over 50MW of UK solar PV delivering 50GWh of zero carbon electricity annually. “Over the last year we have become increasingly aware of the need for a economic, professional and structured service that supports the end client or investor not just by maintaining the system, but by keeping owners professionally informed of it’s performance and overall health.” said Nick Pascoe, Managing Director. “Having previously developed 90MW and constructed / financed 30MW of UK solar, we are very well aware of what Solar Investors want out of a Solar PV maintenance service.” Alongside solar park maintenance Orta Solar also delivers 50-250kW systems
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and currently has a pipeline of some 50MW of new Solar parks in development, differentiating by their depth of experience and nononsense approach to delivering successful multi-site Solar PV installations. Solar installations being maintained by Orta in Spring 2012 include five 33,000V 5MW parks in Cornwall, a 5MW site in Wiltshire, two 1MW rooftop installations, many 50kW systems and several other multi megawatt solar installations as far apart as Norfolk and Carmarthenshire. With prices for an annual documented inspection package starting at £650 for a 50kW system through to having full time staff on site on the largest systems, Orta are anticipating that their service will be increasingly widely adopted. “We’re setting out to build a great long lasting relationship with clients and support the original installers or developers to ensure that the installed system delivers the output that was intended,” said Kate Covill CEO of Orta Solar. More than just a panel wash or grass cut, a good PV maintenance
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service should deliver professionally documented condition and performance reporting, be staffed by Solar PV electrical experts trained in mid voltage DC, authorised for high voltage AC and being manufacture trained in central or distributed inverter technologies (Orta technicians now service Ingeteam, Kaco, Fronius, SMA & ABB inverters). Elements of the service include: PV System performance monitoring- real time output monitoring displays, system tuning, daily & weekly documented performance reporting and fault alarm response Preventative Maintenancedocumented incident / issue reporting, preventative inspections frequency to suit agreed O&M obligations. Mid Voltage DC, 1st level central and distributed inverter maintenance, HV routine maintenance. Corrective Maintenance- Low Voltage 1st level fault alarm response & post storm call out Corrective Maintenance- High Voltage 1st level & post storm call
out (UK Authorised HV Policies and personnel) Panel Cleaning– panel upkeep using de-mineralised water, essential to retain good performance. Dirty panels produce up to 10% less kWh Landscape management- sheep grazed or mechanical grass management, tree management, wildlife management Security, Fire & Pest Control- 24/7 alarm monitoring, 15 minute response Spares management- storage, warranty replacements and annual stocktaking “The UK’s major solar power investors have expressed great interest in the service which for them can consolidate PV operations of very many sites into one complete and hassle free package,” says Mr Pascoe. “We are also delivering the UK specific end of the O&M obligations of some of the overseas developers that have built parks in the UK but have no long term permanent presence,” he went on.
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| Energy
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| Energy
44 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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| Energy
Warwickshire farmers install thin film solar PV Dancer Bros have two 9.7 kWp systems fitted to lightweight cement fibre barn roofs to generate power.
he Dancer brothers have farmed in Warwickshire for many years and have several barns with cement fibre roofs. They wanted to invest in Solar Power but were struggling to find a suitable product. Their barns would not be suitable for traditional glass panels due to weight issues. A large amount of warehouses and barns are not structurally strong enough to support the weight of traditional glass panels, however SkyShades unique thin-filmed solar panels are only a quarter of that weight.Dancer Brothers first came across SKYShades UK Ltd at the
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Cereal Show 2011 and met Dee Bruce-Johnson, SKYShades National Sales Manager there. The Brothers were then invited to an open day of SKYShade’s first Tensile Membrane Solar installation, a 9.5kWp system with an expected annual output of 8.326 mWh, at Ark Storage in Warwickshire. They were so impressed they invited SKYShades to quote for installing their thin film, flexible PV product onto their barns. The two barns they decided to have covered are over 40 years old. The first system was completed in early November
2011 and the 2nd system was completed before 3rd March this year. The systems installed use the SKYShades ‘Plate’ product which is a very thin solar panel attached to an aluminium plate, altogether the combined depth is only 4mm! The systems are 9.7 kWp each with an expected annual output of 9.65 mWh. Both are on South facing roofs, with one at around 15 degrees and the other around 8 degrees. The expected ROI for Dancers installation is 21%. The systems follow the profile of both roofs and the output from the first system has proved to be as
impressive as they were expecting. They have had a consistent output from the first system all through the dark winter days, when other panels would be producing little or nothing. Thin-film panels convert sunlight and low level daylight into electricity for higher output and income. They were delighted at how neat the systems look once installed and the care that was taken. “We were delighted when we found out that there was a proven solar product on the market that we could have installed which would lock down our energy costs for up to 40 years “said Richard Dancer The benefits of Skyshades Thin Film Solar over traditional glass are: • It is lightweight • It doesn’t have to face south • It can be on flat roofs • There is no glass so it will move with the roof • Produces on average a 12% higher output per kW installed • 25% more efficient after 25 years, A proven product over the last 25 years Contact: SKYShades UK Ltd T: 01480 498297
Potatoes stay cool with Kingspan Powerpanel Company’s expert team of PV engineers managed the project from start to finish. assive rises in energy bills over recent years have made the refrigeration and storage of produce an increasingly costly part of modern farming. The owners of Lavenham Fen Farm in Cambridgeshire, however, are proving that this need not be the case, using Kingspan’s Roof PowerPanel Modules to slash bills from the farm’s two potato storage buildings. The buildings, separately housing standard and organic potatoes, require large amounts of energy to power internal cooling systems, keeping harvested potatoes at a constant low temperature. With electricity usage metered at half-hourly rates, this previously resulted in massive energy bills for the farm owners. To tackle these costs, the farm owners used investment from Regenerco to help fund the purchase and installation of Kingspan’s PowerPanel and Safetraxx systems. The PowerPanel array, installed on the roofs of the storage buildings, comprises one thousand, five
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hundred and one, 235Wp Yingli crystalline PV modules and can produce an overall output of 352.7kWp, making it one of the largest roof mounted PV arrays in the country. Robert Pickard, Estates Manager for the farms co-owners Abbots Ripton Farming Company, noted the impact of the system: “We have found it difficult to produce electricity by wind or hydroelectric power, so PV is an excellent solution. The buildings are tall and the visual impact of the panels is minimal. There is also a secondary benefit of fitting the panels to the roofs as in the summer they trap the solar energy which reduces the temperature on the roof sheets below the panels.” “The production of electricity during expensive peak periods is of great benefit to ourselves and to the consumer as all energy generated onsite is channeled directly into powering the potato storage facility.” To allow a swift and successful installation, Kingspan’s expert team of PV engineers managed
the project from start to finish. From surveying the roof to confirm it had the structural strength to support the PowerPanel system, to designing and positioning the PV array to ensure it achieved the highest levels of energy output. To simplify future maintenance of the PowerPanel System, the Kingspan Safetraxx Fall Protection System was installed to enable safe access to the panels without the need for scaffolding. Kingspan Roof PowerPanel
Modules are capable of producing electricity even in low light or overcast conditions and can enhance the asset value and rental potential of properties. The PowerPanel system at Lavenham Fen Farm has been registered and accredited under the FiT scheme.
“One of the largest roof mounted PV arrays in the country.”
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 45
| Energy
Why solar PV ticks all the boxes for pig, poultry & potato farmers By Tom Morley, Managing Director of Solar Technology olar is still relevant Despite concerns over the economic viability of solar PV following the Government’s proposed Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) cuts, and popular misconceptions that the UK has insufficient UV levels to support it, solar PV remains one of the most cost effective, low risk methods for farmers to produce their own electricity. Though solar PV is an effective solution for any farmer, pig, poultry and potato producers are particularly well suited for this kind of renewable energy generation. Conventional farmers use most of their power during the cold, dark winter months, whilst pig, poultry and potato farmers’ highest energy demand is during the summer, when power is needed to run ventilation systems to keep their produce cool. Unlike other forms of renewable energy generation, solar PV produces the most power when the sun is shining, which perfectly mirrors these daily and seasonal peaks in demand. Meteorological trends also suggest that conditions in the UK are only going to get hotter and dryer. As a result, over time, solar PV is likely to become even more relevant to producers who need renewable power sources for cooling purposes. Poultry case study Below is a summary of the energy output, Co2 reduction figures, energy savings, investment costs and FIT returns of a 44.41 kWp solar array recently installed by Solar Technology at a poultry farm in Angus, Scotland.
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farmers who use most of their energy to run ventilation systems during warmer, sunnier periods. 3. FIT return (See Graph 2 below right) Here we can see the returns farmers can expect over 20 years from the current FIT rate at 15.2 pence per unit generated. Solar PV arrays up to 50 kWp that are connected to the grid between now and the end of June 2012, will continue to benefit from this rate. However, anything installed after July 1st 2012 will come under the recently proposed banding of 11.9 pence per unit generated (still to be confirmed). The pay-back period for both scenarios will remain at 20 years. For more information please visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk. 4. Cost savings (See Table 1 below right) Even though solar PV installations will deliver a smaller return due to FIT reductions post July 2012, the table above clearly illustrates the considerable cost savings of using a medium scale solar PV array, when compared to buying electricity from the grid. Benefits overcome challenges Connecting to the grid remains one of the biggest hurdles facing new commercial scale solar developments. Farmers can expect delays of between one and three months, depending on the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). DNOs generally have to respond to connection requests within 65 days. We have also found that in the poultry sector, gases created from chicken droppings can damage certain solar PV systems. Poultry
System Summary PV Active PV Shade Energy Grid Co2 PV System panels surface produced Feed emissions area in avoided by Array (AC) Angus, 44.41 Yingli 308.73 Yes 36,462 kWh 36,462 32,250 NE kWp Solar m2 kWh kg/a Scotland system panels 189 X UV Zone
2. Energy performance (One year) (See Graph 1) Graph 1 (above right) demonstrates the energy from inverter (AC) produced through the year by the 44.41 kWp solar array system. As we have already seen, these varying energy outputs - rising in the hot summer months, and falling during the cooler seasons - mirror the energy needs of pig, poultry and potato
farmers need to ensure they choose specialist equipment which is designed for their particular environment. It’s also important to emphasise that solar PV should always be part of a wider energy mix. Clearly farmers will require a backup system, most commonly diesel generators, which can operate if the solar PV system fails, or during times of low sunlight. This is
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particularly critical for pig, potato and poultry farms who need to keep their produce cool throughout the day. For poultry farmers a delay of anything over 15 minutes can be disastrous so a back-up must always be available. Despite these challenges, the benefits of having a solar array, particularly for pig, poultry and potato farmers who need power for cooling, remain considerable. These specialist farming groups will benefit from having access to a fully self-sufficient electricity
Graph 1
generation system, which reduces the expense of buying power from the grid, and protects them from the volatility of electricity price fluctuations. In addition, having access to a system that mirrors their peaks and troughs in energy usage is a highly efficient and cost effective way of using power. Achieving these efficiencies is incredibly important for farmers with such a high annual power usage. Call: 0131 669 7450 or visit www.solar-technology.co.uk
Energy Energy Own System Annual Radiation Total Energy from from grid use efficiency Yield levels hitting produced by Invertor PV PV array 36,462 63 kWh 62.6 kWh kWh
12.2%
820 Wp 38,422 kWh kWh/k 297,450 kWh
Graph 2 Income Total Assessment Interest PV array FIT costs payment from Payback return period on (1st year) export to period (after 20 capital grid yrs) 20 years 3 % £103,863 £11,995 £1,093 8.5 years £138,424
Table 1 Assessment period 20 years
Annual power consumption 36,462kWh
Cost of electricity (per unit) £0.13
Approx cost savings £94,801
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| Energy
Light at the End of the Tunnel for the Solar Industry? Fastest growing energy source in the UK has a future that is still bright. he last 12 months have been traumatic for the UK’s embryonic solar industry. Whether it was the decision by the government to slash the Feed in Tariff (FIT) for larger projects, despite it being designed to support such projects; the sudden changes to the tariffs announced in the Autumn, later found by the courts to be unlawful; or the introduction of a new requirement for buildings to be thermally efficient before being eligible for the FIT. The rollercoaster has continued unabated. And yet, despite the challenges, the industry has somehow managed to deliver 1GW of new renewable power over the last 12 months. This is astonishing in the context of what were considered wildly optimistic forecasts of 250MW just 12 months ago. Solar PV has become the fastest growing energy source in the UK, and indeed throughout the world. The last 18 months has seen a staggering 200,000 individual installations of PV
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throughout the UK. In fact, last year the UK leapt from near the bottom of the world league table for solar installations to fifth place. The sector now employs over 20,000 people. Although the residential sector has dominated the market by number of installations, the farming community has been at the forefront of the larger commercial installation market. Lark Energy has worked closely with farmers in developing 10MWp of solar farms prior to last summer’s FIT changes and has since then installed over 2MWp on farm land and buildings. Our customers understand the benefits of reducing their costs in a volatile energy market; like the simple, low maintenance technology; and understand the need to move quickly in the face of rapidly changing government policy. The costs of solar have fallen by 40% over the last 18 months. This means that, even at today’s lower FIT rates, a good return can still be made on solar investment. As a result, we are continuing to
develop a large number of farmbased solar projects ranging from 10kWp to over 30MWp in size. Belatedly, the government has recently begun talking up the potential of solar to deliver significant renewable energy capacity close to the point of use and has set out a more coherent future for the FIT. Although the industry still has concerns with the proposed approach, we very much welcome this more constructive
approach and hope the government will sit down with industry representatives to achieve an effective long-term strategy. With the popularity of solar amongst the general public, continuing efficiency gains in the technology, decreasing prices and a better relationship with government, Lark Energy believes the future for solar power in the UK in the longer term is once again bright.
On Farm Energy Generation 21st-22nd June 2012 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. nterest in farm based renewable energy has surged in the past year, and 2012 is set to see many more exciting developments, as the agricultural sector is increasingly looking towards alternative resources to maximise the return from their land. It is becoming more and more attractive as more incentives become available, and the ever topical issue of carbon reduction is further putting the spotlight on sustainability. A large exhibition will be complemented by seminars running throughout the day providing detailed analysis of government policy, incentives, planning, technological advancements and financing. The event will enable farmers to gain valuable information on the range of technologies available for onfarm energy generation, as well as other issues that will influence investment decisions. The exhibition will include
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companies showcasing the latest renewable technologies. Attendance to the exhibition is free, but does not include lunch or refreshments. Tickets to the seminars will include lunch and tea and coffee at both refreshment breaks. The seminars will be held in a separate room to the exhibition and will be formatted to allow delegates to attend only those seminars which are of interest to them. There will also be plenty of time scheduled for question and answer sessions. Tickets can be purchased to attend the seminars, for either day one, day two or both days. This event is run in association with RASE and RASE members can benefit from a 20% discount off delegate rates. Visit: www.recyclingwasteworld.co.uk/c onferences, phone 01722 717031 or email rebecca.hathawaywhite@markallengroup.co.uk
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 47
| Potatoes
Adapt potato herbicide timing to dry conditions Lack of rainfall leads to modified strategy. ontinued dry soils could seriously compromise performance of preemergence residual herbicides for potato growers this season. Syngenta Technical Manager, Stephen Williams, advises growers to wait as long as possible before application, to get the best possible results when it does eventually rain. “Trials by SAC and growers last year, when conditions were also dry in the spring, highlighted the optimum timing for Defy application was just ahead of crop emergence. This gave the longest period of residual weed control and, ultimately, the highest yields,” reported Mr Williams. Although daytime temperatures are unseasonably hot at present, he pointed out that cold nights will keep soil temperatures lower. “We could see surface weeds germinating and growing very quickly, but the deeper planted crop may be slower to emerge. Growers will need to adapt their spray timing and options accordingly.” The key advantage
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with Defy is that trials and growers’ own experiences have shown greater flexibility with timing around the point of emergence without risk of crop damage. Where Defy is used at the point of soil rising and close to emergence, the contact herbicide Retro should always be included in the tank mix, advised Mr Williams. “This will remove any existing germinated weeds. It ensures the crop emerges in a weed free seedbed and can get away quickly. If the established weed burden is heavy, or the weeds have become large, Retro can be used at up to 4.0 l/ha.” When Defy is used in combination with Retro no further adjuvant needs to be included in the tank mix, saving time, money and reducing the number of containers for disposal. If Defy is being used in tank mix with other residual herbicides, growers must take note of any varietal or timing restrictions associated with other products, he added. Application tips Residual potato seedbed
herbicides should be applied with angled nozzles to get the best all round coverage, especially if the dry conditions have left more clods on the surface, according to Stephen Williams. “The angled Syngenta Potato Nozzle is far more effective at giving an even coverage of the soil surface, compared to flat fan nozzles where the shading effect of clods leaves a shadow area untreated, especially at faster spraying speeds,” he warned. Sprayer operators should also take care to avoid side drift in windy conditions that can leave one side of the ridge or bed untreated. “Where there is heavy weed
coverage, the angled nozzles are also more effective at getting the even coverage of residual Defy spray under the weeds and down to the soil surface,” he added. Syngenta trials have shown there is no advantage to residual herbicide performance by increasing water volumes; waiting for the optimal conditions and crop stage, and then using a lower water volume to get around spraying as quickly as possible will give better overall results.
Top international researchers to attend World Potato Congress 2012 The event at which everyone wants to be seen. orld Potato Congress has become an important diary date and many of the potato industry’s leading international researchers have already registered to attend. In addition, the Fifth Potato Virus ‘Y’ (PVY-wide) workshop and a meeting of United
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Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) have been scheduled to coincide with the congress. At these meetings world-leading international PVY research scientists will discuss topics such as the latest findings on PVY evolution, pathogenicity, epidemiology, control and management. “Running the UNECE meeting in conjunction with the World Potato Congress provides the opportunity for certification officials and industry bodies from all
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corners of the globe to join together in harmonising trading standards,” says John Kerr, head of Potato Branch at Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture. “The meeting will improve our collective understanding of what seed potato quality means in the context of a trading relationship as well as help each participating country to hone its own domestic controls through the experience of others.” At World Potato Congress Dr Kerr will be speaking about seed certification and its role in producing healthy, productive and profitable potato crops. Potato Council director Dr Rob Clayton says: “World Potato Congress 2012 is the event at which everyone wants to be seen this year. It’s the ideal location to network with customers, and delegates will be able to maximise the potential business opportunities. Furthermore, topics on the agenda encompass
practical discussions that can help our industry achieve greater sustainability and profitability. “I strongly encourage everyone in the sector to attend the congress.” For more information and to register go to www.wpc2012.net World Potato Congress 2012 is organised by Potato Council and sponsored by Bayer CropScience; Albert Bartlett; Greenvale; Irish Potato Marketing; Syngenta; DuPont; Cygnet PB; Mylnefield Research Services Ltd; R. J. Herbert Engineering; Caithness Potatoes; Solana; Makhteshim Agan Industries; McCain Foods (GB) Ltd; Grimme UK Ltd; Broekema; AgraQuest; Haith; Odenberg Ltd; Kortrijk Xpo; LGC Genomics GmbH; Potato Variety Management Institute; Fischbein Saxon; Canadian Horticultural Council; Neogen Europe; Newtec Odense (UK) Ltd; Tong Peal Engineering.
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| Machinery
Spreading Charts app from Kverneland Makes spreader set-up a breeze.
preading Charts is the Kverneland Group's App that has been released in the Android market and also through Apple’s App store, to simplify spreader set-up. Available for use on iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and smart phones such as Samsung and HTC models using the Android operating system, the free Spreading Charts app gives direct access to results from specialised testing and fertiliser application experience gained from the Kverneland Group's spreader test hall. The App can guide you to the
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IPhone App
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correct settings for your Kverneland Exacta and Vicon Rotaflow spreader, for almost all commonly used fertiliser types. Through the App, simply select your spreader model, enter the working width, application rate, forward speed and fertiliser type, and you will receive the correct advice on spreader settings, creating the best spread pattern possible. In addition, the App will offer access to the latest spreader videos. Simply scan the QR code with your phone to download the App, or visit the App Store.Android App
300 Vario range grows Excellent fuel economy and high performance. he new 300 Vario range has been expanded upwards with a new top model, the 313 Vario with a maximum output of 135 hp, and now covers the power range from 95 to 135 hp. The new 300 Vario tractors are powered by a 4.04-litre 4-cylinder Deutz engine with four-valve technology and a 1,600bar common rail high-pressure injection system. The electronic engine control EDC 17, the turbocharger with electronic wastegate and the viscous fan have been adopted from the highhorsepower tractor ranges and are standard on the 300 Vario. For the new 300 Vario range, Fendt also relies on the fuel-saving SCR technology for compliance with emissions standard Euro 3b (Tier IV interim). This technology, familiar from the 700, 800 and 900 Vario highhorsepower tractors, has already impressively proven its superior fuel economy in neutral PowerMix tests. The high effectiveness of the timetested Vario transmission ML 75 ensures an efficient drive train. Thanks to infinitely variable speed adjustment from 20 metres to 40 kilometres per hour, the 300 Vario is predestined for versatile applications, starting from specialty crop or row crop work, to grassland operations and arable farming, to classic work as a farmyard tractor The TMS tractor management system is now standard in the 300 Series and ensures extremely economical driving, automatically. Easy handling combined with state-of-the-art technology The operating concept on the 300 Vario unites easy handling with stateof-the-art technology. All operating elements are centrally located on the steering column and the right-hand console. New in this performance class is the on-board computer, which displays important information on area coverage and time. The single-gate Vario-Stick unites the main gearshift lever, the group gears, the powershift stages and the controls for the super crawler gearbox into one operating element.
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In view of ergonomics, it is ideally placed on the right-hand console. The new 300 Vario range is equipped with a comprehensive lighting system, which maximises working comfort at night; Xenon lights are available as an option. The wide-angle mirror (optional) extends the operator's field of vision and thus ensures greater safety. The brakes have been refined, allowing the permissible gross weight to be increased from 8 tonnes on the previous model to 8.5 tonnes. In combination with a low unladen weight of 4,230 kg (309 Vario), this amounts to a maximum payload of 4,270 kg and a weight-to-power ratio of only 33 kg/hp (313 Vario). The hydraulics have been redesigned, in particular the rear lift. It now has a lifting capacity of nearly six tonnes (5960 daN) and can therefore lift over a half a tonne more than its predecessor. Thanks to the new tandem hydraulic pump, the oil delivery capacity has been increased from 78 to 83 litres. The improved steering lock, in combination with the pivoting mudguards, permits an even better steering angle. The combination of a 4.15-meter vehicle length, a 2.35metre wheelbase and a 52-degree steering angle result in a turning radius of only 4.2 metres for the best manoeuvring and turning characteristics. For the tyre concept, the focus was on a versatile application range, which orients itself on practical requirements. The selection ranges from row crop tyres, which have a high ground clearance, to modern wide tyres, which minimise soil compaction in both field and grassland operations. The legendary reputation of the Fendt 300 range already began in the 1980’s. Through constant adaptation to the changing market requirements, Fendt has further developed the range up to the 300 Vario. Today, this range continues to stand for reliability, low fuel consumption and ease of operation while offering high performance.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 49
| Machinery
T-Max range expands McCormick introduce five models from 74hp to 110hp. ollowing a good response to the introduction of a single T-Max model to the McCormick range early last year, distributor AgriArgo UK has decided to offer the complete line of 74hp to 110hp tractors in Great Britain. “We introduced the 93hp T100Max to fill a particular niche in our product range as an alternative to the more utilitarian C100-Max and the CX100 with its larger cab,” explains Ray Spinks, general manager and sales director. “Now that the CX range has been replaced by the higher-spec and more powerful X60 Series tractors, we feel there is a place for the complete T-Max line-up.” There are 10 versions in all, with power outputs from the familiar Perkins 1104D-44 engine of 74hp, 83hp, 93hp, 102hp and 110hp. Synchro Shuttle models come with the Speed Four Overdrive transmission, giving 24 speeds forward and 12 in reverse, using a mechanical high-low splitter. Creep gears can be added to this 40kph transmission. The Power Shuttle transmission has a novel clutch sensitivity adjustment feature that alters the ‘bite’ characteristics of the main drive clutch and power shuttle clutch. Operators can set this function using a dial to suit different working situations or their own preferences. A 36kph 12x12-speed transmission is standard fare on TMax Power Shuttle tractors but buyers can instead choose the Speed Four HML option, which adds three-speed powershift for a 36x12 configuration, with creep speeds also available if required. “These transmission options contrast with the single 24x12 unit available in the three C-Max models, which remain ideal for operators wanting a simple,
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straight-forward tractor for yard and general top work in the field,” notes Paul Wade, McCormick product specialist. “Outwardly, the two designs look similar because they share the same cab frame and hood shape – the all-silver finish of the T-Max grille is a giveaway. But the T-Max has significant spec and equipment differences that make it a better choice for operators with a more demanding workload.” Among these differences is a new transaxle assembly designed and built in the ARGO Tractors factory in Italy. Capable of handling more power, it features a tougher rear axle with epicyclical speed reduction rather than spur gears. It also provides greater threepoint linkage lift capacity – 4350kg versus 3700kg on the C-Max. Also, the tractors can be fitted with an 1800kg front linkage, with or without power take-off, for added implement working versatility. Integrated multi-disc front axle brakes give the T-Max greater stopping ability and pivoting front mudguards allow full use to be made of the axle’s 55 degree steering angle for nimble manoeuvrability. All T-Max tractors have lower link draft sensing (it’s via the top link on C-Max models) and on Power Shuttle versions there is a choice of mechanical or electronic rear linkage operation. The latter provides improved draft implement control and the added convenience of linkage lift-lower buttons on the rear mudguards for easier coupling of mounted equipment. Inside the neat-looking cab, air conditioning is fitted throughout and an air suspension seat option for Synchro Shuttle models is standard on the Power Shuttle versions.
A power-matched McCormick LiftMaster hydraulic loader is available to work with any of the TMax tractors, all of which come with the CESAR-backed Datatag theft deterrence and recovery system installed as standard. “With its low overall height and easy manoeuvrability, the T-Max makes an attractive stockman’s tractor for operators who want more than the most basic specification,” says Paul Wade. “It
will also appeal to growers in the arable and horticulture sectors wanting a small-sized tractor with decent power, a versatile transmission and a choice of features.”
Front runner Wessex attachment makes short work of any grass. Operators of outfront power units such as John Deere, Kubota, Ransomes, Shibaura, Iseki, New Holland and others now have the ideal partner in grass cutting. The Wessex Proline TGX outfront flail mowers complement all the leading brands and make short work of long or fine grass. While a rotary will cut longer grass it will not mulch and leave the turf looking tidy like a flail. Combine this with the manoeuvrability of the outfront mower and the partnership is equally at home on a sports pitch or a roadside verge. The TGX follows ground contours accurately with its own wheels and full width rear roller and offers a 1.5m working width. The flails are aerodynamically designed for minimum power consumption, using ‘spoon’ type flails to leave a better finish on the grass than the ‘Y’ pattern back to back flails. The cutting height is
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simply adjusted and the mower has high ground clearance for negotiating kerbs and other obstacles. The cutting deck is double skinned to minimise stone damage and the TGX features puncture proof tyres. There is a dedicated hydraulic version designed specifically to suit the Ransomes HR3300 and HR300, and the decks are all fully guarded to HSE specifications. Contact: Broadwood International 01420 478111 www.broadwoodintl.co.uk
SOUTHAM AGRICULTURAL SERVICES Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam CV47 2DH
Tel: 01926 813426 Fax: 01926 817908
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| News
KO Machines
Robson Tractors Ltd
Highwood
Lower Laches Farm, Laches Lane, Slade Heath, Wolverhampton WV10 7PA Tel: 01902 798771 www.komachines.co.uk
Ings Lane, Carlton Husthwaite, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 2BP Tel: 01845 501602 www.robsontractors.co.uk
Yeovil Branch: 01935 478877 Dorset Branch: 01305 266058 Shepton Mallet Branch: 01749 841651 service@highwood-ag.co.uk sales@highwood-ag.co.uk parts@highwood-ag.co.uk
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 51
| Machinery
Kubota welcome Spring with cashback offers A welcome opportunity to make substantial savings in these tough economic conditions.
n these hard economic times it’s nice to get an extra bit of help. Kubota have announced the return of their spring cash-back programme on selected products bought by June 30th. The purchase of a M130X tractor will see a cash-back of £2,000 or £3,000 if a loader is specified. The M130X is a powerful tractor, engineered for demanding and wide ranging large implement work. Equipped with a powerful and fuel efficient 130hp Kubota four cylinder common rail system (CRS) diesel engine, it features an
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electronic engine management control system to deliver more power and torque than ever before. High performance hydraulics offer a 5,800 kg lift capacity, and an independent hydraulic PTO (540rpm and 1000rpm) which makes for easy implement attachment and maximum productivity. Tight turns are effortlessly achieved with Kubota’s bevel-gear front axle and Bi-Speed turn feature. Equally attractive an offer is the £200 cash-back on a GR1600 or T1800 ride-on mower or £300 on the GR2100 or GR2120 models.
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Kubota's range of ride-on mowers incorporate a multitude of performance enhancing features, including Kubota's revolutionary Glide-cut system for unparalleled efficiency in cut and collection. In addition they boast multiple comfort features, including a full flat operator platform, deluxe adjustable seats, ergonomically positioned controls and power steering, to ensure ease of operation and reduced fatigue. Advanced features, including the tilt up hood, to ensure maintenance is quick and easy and Kubota's unique Quick Clean System, where even wet grass can be cleared without leaving the driver’s seat. With its high horsepower, the 4WD diesel GR2120 incorporates Kubota's revolutionary Glide Steer system which enables it to turn more sharply than a conventional mower. Other features include an easy dial cut height adjustment, hydraulic power steering, HST and
a hydraulic mower lift. The T1800 ride-on mower is powered by an OHV petrol engine, whilst the GR series have Kubota’s renowned liquid cooled diesel engines, of differing power outputs dependant on style. Both offer high torque, super combustion capability and exceptional fuel economy. They incorporate a heavy duty shaft transmission system, allowing power to be delivered smoothly to the HST for maximum durability and minimise power loss, whilst significantly reducing noise and vibration levels. Coupled with optimum reliability, proficient fuel economy and outstanding versatility, they make light work of all groundcare tasks with the power to tackle the most demanding jobs. Full details of the possible savings can be found on www.kubota.co.uk or via regional dealers.
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| News
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 53
| Machinery
Four CASE IH products win AE50 award Prestigious award is recognised worldwide.
Spaldings expand Tungsten replacement parts range Spaldings provide even greater choice across replacement parts range with high grade Tungsten introductions.
our Case IH products have been selected to receive the prestigious 2012 AE50 awards. Sponsored by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), the AE50 awards annually recognize the most innovative new agriculture equipment worldwide. This year’s Case IH award recipients include the independent grain tank cross auger control in Case IH AxialFlow® 30 Series combines, the MagnaCut Fine Cut Chopper for Axial-Flow combines, the RoboSharpener and the Steiger® 600 tractor. The award-winning products were announced in the January/February issue of ASABE’s Resource magazine. They also will be recognized at the Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference on February 14 in Louisville, Kentucky.
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“ASABE has consistently recognized Case IH for developing innovative agricultural equipment that helps farmers Be Ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of today’s agriculture industry,” says Kyle Russell, Senior Director of Marketing for Case IH. “With customers’ input, Case IH creates products that meet the demands of their business while maximizing profitability.” For two decades, the AE50 awards have recognized the best products introduced in the agricultural, food and biological systems industries. An expert panel selects up to 50 winners based on commercial impact, contributions to agriculture and engineering, and advancements in engineering and technological significance. To qualify for the distinct awards, each development must have been produced, advertized and made available for sale in the 2011 calendar year.
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paldings today announced the expansion of their Tungsten replacement parts with new additions to many of their ranges including Plough, Cultivator and Subsoiler spares. The Tungsten range has expanded by up to 20% with over 100 new products joining the extensive Spaldings catalogue. “It was agreed to expand our Tungsten offering after sales of our current range reached a record high” says Roger Chase, Agricultural Sales Director for Spaldings. “Our customers are seeking out longer wear rates to reduce downtime as much as possible. During extensive field trials it was revealed that our Tungsten parts performed up to 10
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times longer than conventional spares.” Spaldings new generation Tungsten carbide parts are produced using high grade Tungsten tiles braised to Boron steel parent metal with the latest heat treatment techniques to ‘double harden’ the parent metal around the tiles. This strong bond then ensures that the parent metal retains a consistent hardness after the braising process. For details of these and other products supplied by Spaldings, contact 01522 507 600, email: agsales@spaldings.co.uk or view the catalogue at www.spaldings.co.uk
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| News
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 55
| News
B&B Tractor Fauld Lane, Tutbury, Staffordshire DE13 9BA Tel: 01283 521522
Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Tel: 01923 265211
Nigel Quinn (AMS) Limited 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston, Lancashire PR4 6JR Tel/Fax: 01704 822272 Mobile: 07973 519491
Morris Corfield & Co Limited Benthall Works, Shropshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01757 249799
A14 Telford Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Tel: 01869 329988
Newton Street, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9PJ Tel: 01588 673325
Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Tel: 01582 727111
Wilfred Scruton Limited Maxwell House, Riccall Grange, King Rudding Lane, Riccall, York YO19 6QL Tel: 01757 249799
Westington Works, Docklow, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0SJ Tel: 01885 488884
Providence Foundry, Foxholes, Driffield E.Yorkshire YO25 3QQ Tel: 01262 470221
Bellard Court, Platts Lane, Duddon, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 0EU Tel: 01829 749391
56 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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| Machinery
New backpack blowers blast in from STIHL Including the first home-user model - available now. vailable now, new backpack blowers from the trusted STIHL brand simply drive away debris with their hurricane air speed. Usually the domain of professional users, the new backpack models will put their great power and performance into even more hands with a new lightweight model priced at just under £340.00, making it a comfortable proposition for garden and farm use. Outdoor blowers are handy year-round assistants; in spring they help with the seasonal clean, clearing debris and leaves that have gathered outdoors. In the autumn they really come into their own, but users need not wait until then to enjoy the great benefits of new models available from STIHL now. Two new models for home and land-owners’ use Each of the new STIHL backpack blowers has a clear focus on user and task. BR 200 – Home-owner’s helper The first STIHL ‘home-user’ backpack blower, the new BR 200 delivers power and performance equivalent to STIHL’s top-of-therange handheld model. It is lightweight, compact and really pleasant to use, and blasts out an impressive 59 m/s air speed making it perfect for sweeping up grass trimmings and leaves. It is also priced at just £339.00 (RRP), so is truly appealing for the home gardener. BR 350 – Tough landowner’s blower Another new addition to the STIHL backpack range, the BR 350 steps-up power and performance, and is ideal for tough and larger scale clear-up tasks. This model is sure to appeal to land owners and serious gardeners with its capacity to clear heavier duty debris around grounds or to sweep yards. The BR 350 comes with an angled round blower nozzle to handle its higher volume air blast and can be fitted with an accessory straight nozzle or with a flat nozzle which spreads the air stream more widely and parallel to the ground. The backpack benefits The benefits of backpack blowers are simple and distinct, with one clear advantage being their great comfort in use. As with
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any good quality backpack, STIHL’s ergonomically designed and well-padded carrying frames, plus the use of tough yet lightweight components in the power units themselves, mean users can work comfortably and efficiently with stable freedom to roam. Power is another great strength of the new blowers. Backpackmounted engines can be larger than on handheld machines, and thus drive higher air speed and air volume. That means they will blow away more material, quickly and efficiently. Each of the new models is powered by the advanced, low emission STIHL 2-MIX engine, which is particularly fuel efficient so more cost-effective to run. Putting their great power into perspective, the new BR 350 blasts out air at 75 m/s – that’s over 167 mph and the equivalent to a Category Five hurricane held in the hand. Even the new homeowners BR 200 has a great 59 m/s
air speed; its impressive maximum air throughput of 800 m3/h means the air current is not only fast, it carries the ‘weight’ that is needed to blast volumes of waste. Easy to use More than great performers, the new backpack blowers are really easy to use right from the off. Start-up itself is especially simple: pump the fuel primer and flick on the choke, then pull-start the cord and the engine fires up. After that there is no fiddling between warm and cold starts thanks to clever STIHL technology which means the choke only needs to be operated once for each start.
In use, the long flexible blower tube incorporates a comfortable ‘trigger’ handle with throttle control, allowing accurate direction of the powerful air blast. The new backpack blowers are available now from the network of around 500 STIHL Approved Dealers nationwide. For further details on the full backpack range, plus information on handheld blowers and vacuum shredders from STIHL, visit www.stihl.co.uk. Or speak to a local Approved Dealer.
April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 57
| Machinery
Record results for DEUTZ AG Positive outlook for 2012 also forecast. he 2011 financial year was one of the best in DEUTZ AG's history even though the global economy increasingly deteriorated, particularly in the second half of the year. DEUTZ fully achieved – and in some cases exceeded – the forecast that it had made at the start of 2011 and revised upwards during the course of the year. Revenue rose by 28.6 per cent to €1,529.0 million (2010: €1,189.1 million), setting a new revenue record for the current corporate structure. It was particularly encouraging that all application segments and regions were able to achieve a significant increase in their revenue last year, thereby continuing the positive trend that had begun in 2010. The basis for this record amount of revenue was the sharp rise in unit sales, which went up by 37.5per cent to 230,598 engines (2010: 167,680 engines). This upturn in new orders was attributable, in particular, to the high demand in the Agricultural Machinery and Mobile Machinery application segments. The upward trajectory was maintained over the course of the year. Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2011 was up by 1.5 per cent on the third quarter, which itself had been strong. Year on year, fourth-quarter
New Holland supports new Rhino Orphanage with tractor donation Servicing and maintenance will also be taken care of.
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OHANNESBURG, South Africa – New Holland Agriculture announced at the official inauguration of Ntlo ya Lerato Rhino Orphanage the donation of a TT55 tractor to support the wildlife reserve located in South Africa’s Limpopo Province. The tractor will be used for general maintenance of the extensive territory of the sanctuary, whose name means “place of love” in Pedi. The reserve takes in rhinos orphaned as a result of poaching, and rears them to adulthood, preparing them to be released back into the wild. New Holland’s distributor, New Holland South Africa, and their dealer network also rallied to support the sanctuary and will provide at no cost the scheduled servicing and maintenance, including parts, that will be needed for the donated tractor. In addition, dealer Janpret Trekkers will donate
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revenue increased by as much as 10.0 per cent. DEUTZ anticipates similarly good results for this year. "Although any forecast for 2012 is still subject to uncertainty, we are looking to the future full of confidence in view of the very successful year that we have just enjoyed. Supported by excellent performance in the service business and the increasing proportion of the fleet accounted for by new and significantly more durable engines, we predict that, in 2012, we will reach the revenue and EBIT margin achieved in 2011. We can state with a clear conscience that, whatever happens, we are well equipped to face the future", said Dr Helmut Leube, Chairman of the Board of Management of DEUTZ AG.
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a purpose-built implement. Sanctuaries like the Rhino Orphanage are vital to the survival of this endangered species. As an agricultural equipment solutions provider, New Holland has a long standing relationship with South Africa and feels the responsibility to support this initiative that helps safeguard this country’s rich wildlife and nature for future generations.
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| Machinery
Anker Of Coates Eldernell Lane, Coates, Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Units 15-17, Brook Farm, Ellington, Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk
Ravenhill
Beech Business Park, Tillington Road, Hereford HR4 9QJ Tel: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill-ltd.co.uk
Sharnford Tractors Ltd
Lodge Farm, Broughton Road, Frolesworth, Lutterworth Leicestershire,LE17 5EH Tel: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk
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| News
Andrew Marwood Ltd Unit 2, Full Sutton Industrual Estate, Full Sutton, Yorkshire YO41 1HS Tel 01759 372888
Lyndon Tucker
Stewart Morley
Oldwalls Garage, Llanrhidian, Swansea, SA1 1HA Tel 01792 391007
The Workshop, Bonds Farm, Morley Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6BY Tel 01253 799124 Mob 07802 638385
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Wharfedale Tractors Ltd Unit 1, Riffa Business Park Harrogate Road, Poole-in-Wharfedale, North Yorkshie LS21 2XB Tel 01132 841117
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| Machinery
John Deere’s new technology at Grassland UK John Deere’s latest award-winning round baler and forage harvester technology will be featured on the company’s stand at Grassland UK 2012 at the Bath & West Showground, Somerset in May.
he revolutionary Fast Release System (FRS) featured on new 900 Series variable chamber round balers, which employs a unique ‘curtain’ design to replace the traditional heavy rear door, won an innovation award at the FIMA fair in Zaragoza, Spain in February. Now in production for the 2012 season, the 960 and 990 model balers employ this state-of-the-art technology to significantly improve baler output, bale density and operator comfort, which can lead to savings of up to an hour a day during harvest.
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Working together with the exclusive full-frame design for reliability and durability, FRS speeds up the bale ejection process by enabling the operator to unload the completed bale in less than five seconds, which is up to 10 seconds faster than a conventional machine. The 900 Series balers are available with a choice of 2.2m wide RotoFlow or MaxiCut 13- or 25-knife precutter high capacity pick-ups, and produce bale diameters from 80 to 160cm and 80 to 185cm respectively. Both balers are ISOBUS certified and
can be equipped with a GreenStar 1800 display for controlling most of the key machine settings and functions. The SIMA 2011 Gold Medal award winning Tractor Implement Automation (TIA) system is also now available as an option on the 900 Series balers. When operated with a tractor featuring ISOBUS, a continuously variable transmission and electronic SCVs, this baler automation system also significantly reduces the harvest workload – instead of the driver having to stop the tractor to open and close the rear of the baler, TIA manages everything using simple fingertip controls to complete the baling process. John Deere’s advanced HarvestLab constituent sensing system for the 7050 Series selfpropelled forage harvester range was also awarded a DLG Silver Medal at Agritechnica 2011. The system has been enhanced for 2012 to sense additional maize
silage quality parameters, such as protein, sugar, starch, fibre (ADF/NDF) and ash content, either on–the-go on the forager or as a portable stationary unit for use by both farmers and feed nutritionists. This is designed to help silage producers manage their feed rations and additive calculations more efficiently, and to provide better control of feed costs. There is also a new interest free finance offer available from John Deere Financial on all new John Deere round balers ordered by 30th April 2012, in the UK only. The offer is for 0+36 monthly payments at zero per cent interest, with the amount financed limited to 50 per cent of the retail value. As usual, other credit profiles are available on request, and the availability of finance is subject to status and terms & conditions – further details are available at www.JohnDeereFinancial.co.uk or from John Deere’s UK dealers.
Derwent Road, Malton, North Yorks YO17 0NW Tel: 01653 695094 Fax: 01653 697979 Holme Road, Market Wighton, York YO4 3EW Tel: 01430 872421 Fax: 01430 872461
Agricultural Ltd
RBM
Clarborough Hill, Redford, Notts DN22 9EA Tel: 01777 704823 Fax: 01777 710299 Westrum Lane, Brigg, Lincolnshire DN20 9EY Tel: 01652 650600 Fax: 01652 658180 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Edtate, Louth LN11 0WA Tel: 01507 617588
www.rbmagricultural.co.uk
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| ATV
Versatile, practical and easy to maintain. ith acres of forestry to maintain, dozens of trees to fell and hundreds of narrow paths to keep clear for walkers, you need to move quickly but safely, control is essential. Versatile, practical and easyto-maintain, the KingQuad 400 is ready to muck in. whether it’s carrying feed and lambing equipment on its front and rear cargo racks, or towing livestock in a trailer, the 400 is ready to prove why it’s a KingQuad. The KingQuad 400 features an efficient fuel injection system so you can depend on impressive fuel economy and great reliability. The 32mm throttle body and cylinder head work to deliver smooth power and torque for everything from creeping around the paddock to charging across fields. Adding further to the practicality, the digital multifunction display incorporates a speedometer, odometer, trip-meter, hour-meter, clock and fuel gauge – everything you might need out in the wilderness.
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While the selectable 2 or 4wheel drive with high and low ratios, independent front suspension and dual hydraulic front discs let you know you’re in safe hands regardless of the challenges ahead. The 376cc engine delivers plenty of power for most farm, forestry, estate and equestrian work and with a fully automatic transmission (5-speed manual model also available) it’s easy to use for a variety of tasks.
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| ATV
Kawasaki enjoying both ends of the spectrum Manufacturer fills the gaps in their current product offering. ith the recent introduction of a new entry level ATV – and the continuing success of its high-specification MULE Trans utility, Kawasaki is currently enjoying considerable success. The newest ATV in the Kawasaki range fills what the Japanese manufacturer concedes was a crucial gap, that being the entry level machine as UK Product Specialist, Simon Riches, explains. “Among customers, there is not just dealer loyalty; there is a strong vein of brand loyalty too. People want to buy from the same dealer they have always enjoyed good service from and, equally, they have an understandable bond with certain manufacturers. For us then its important to have a strong entry level bike to engender that loyalty early on”. In the water-cooled and highly specified KVF300, Kawasaki have
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what they think is the ideal first machine for a variety of users including market gardeners, small to medium scale farming enterprises and equestrian users. With a formidable 227kg towing capacity plus racks front and rear – and such durability focussed features as a generous sump capacity to enable safe use on inclines – the KVF is providing Kawasaki with a welcome return to the vital “first bike” arena. At the other end of the spectrum, the company’s innovative MULE Trans continues to excel as the most adaptable vehicle of its type. Displaying the traditional Kawasaki virtues of outstanding durability and reliability, the three cylinder watercooled diesel powered UV has, in its normal operating mode, a 499kg capacity tipping load bed and a trailer and cargo towing capacity of 545kg.
Adding the ability to “transform” the load bed to a reduced size and fold down an extra row of seats in a one-operator action of less than two minutes, the MULE Trans shines as a true “go anywhere, do anything” Utility Vehicle. “So many purchasers are looking to rationalise their vehicle fleet in these hard economic times” explains Riches. “With the
Trans you always have that unique “hidden extra” of more seating when it’s required. That’s not just a boon for municipal and contracting users, but also a heaven sent opportunity for organised shoots, those farmers that lease out land for summer events and, of course, maintenance crews that need an adaptable low ground impact vehicle”.
D.H Wadsworth & Sons
D.H Wadsworth & Sons
Yorkshire Dales ATV
28 Derwent Road, York Road Ind Estate, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6YB Telephone: 01653 692244 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk
204 Barnsley road, Flockton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 4AB Telephone: 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk
Unit 3, Ravenscroft Way, Barnholdswick, Lancashire BB18 6JA Telephone: 01282 851158 www.yorkshiredalesatvcentre.co.uk
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| ATV
64 | Farming Monthly | April 2012
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| ATV
The C-DAX original Weedwiper just got bigger and better Two different sizes are now available, ensuring a configuration to suit your requirements. he C-Dax Eliminator is a particularly simple but highly advanced weed wiping implement and is designed to operate in a wide range of conditions to efficiently control a variety of weeds. Two different sizes are now available, both come as trailed units, the original having a effective wiping width of 2.35 metres and the New Winged Eliminator which offers an overall effective wiping width of 4.3 metres. Both Eliminators (or Weedlicker as also known) have a heavy duty galvanized frame and feature a pressurized and patented chemical feed system to ensure that both ends of the wiper are fed equally with chemical, irrespective of the angle of the terrain on which the Eliminator is being operated. This makes the Eliminator unique in this market. The New Winged Eliminator not only offers an effective wiping width of 4.3 metres but comes with new self-angling wings with dual or individual left or right wing operation to allow easy weed control on banks and edges of waterways.
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Chemical is fed to the wool covered wiping arms which are strategically angled to the forward direction thereby providing increased contact time with the vegetation. Natural wool is chosen for its ability to retain a high capacity of chemical and to optimize chemical transfer to the vegetation. The amount of chemical which is pumped to the wiping arms is determined by and electronic controller which the operator adjusts according to the level of weed infestation being treated. The 2.35 metre and 4.3 metre units are both available with a fully integrated 50 litre tank producing a completely self contained unit, alternatively the Eliminator may be supplied with chemical from a
remote tank mounted on an ATV or other vehicle. Application rates are between 3.9L/Ha and 40L/Ha. Wiping speed typically is between 10-12 kph. Contact application (wiping) of herbicide as a means of weed control is becoming increasingly popular due to the time window in the weather allowing the operator to wipe even when the conditions are windy as there is no drift from the wiping arms. The Eliminator provides the answer to high output broadacre control as well as small paddock maintenance and is the ideal implement to operate in environmentally sensitive areas where restrictions prevent conventional methods. The wiper is particularly effective on Ragwort, Rushes,
Thistles, Bracken and Nettles. If you are interested in purchasing a Weed wiper please contact your local C-Dax dealer or contact ATV City (the distributor for C-Dax product in Europe) on 01953 609999 or on email sales@atvcity.co.uk
“Two different sizes are now available, both come as trailed units, the original having a effective wiping width of 2.35 metres and the New Winged Eliminator which offers an overall effective wiping width of 4.3 metres.�
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ANDREWS OF HINDHEAD LTD Portsmouth Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6AL Tel 01428 605544
AUTOLINKS Lake Road Garage, Brynmawr Gwent NP23 4AP Tel 01495 310548 www.autolinks.co.uk
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DORSET QUADS LTD Dorchester Tel 07969 047502 Email sales@dorsetquads.co.uk www.dorsetquads.co.uk
EXTREME SPORTS Unit 5, Fleet Road Ind Estate, Holbeach, Lincolnshire PE12 8LY Tel 01406 420002
NORTH CORNWALL TOVE ENGINEERING XP BIKES Unit 15, Yorks Farm Bus. MOTORCYCLE Larkhall, Centre, Yorks Farm, Lanarkshire ML9 2EX CENTRE Hospital Rd, Stratton, Bude, Cornwall EX23 9BT Tel 01288 355162 www.ncmc.co.uk
Watling Street, Towcester, Northants, NN12 6AD Tel 01327 831584
Tel 01698 881885 Contact Ian www.xpbikes.co.uk
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| ATV
Honda Institute gets ‘outstanding’ grading from OFSTED Honda (UK)’s apprenticeship programme, delivered by its bespoke training facility, The Honda Institute, has been given an ‘outstanding’ grading from Ofsted – the Office for Standards in Education. wo of Her Majesty’s Inspectors and three additional inspectors carried out the inspection in January 2012 using a variety of methods such as questionnaires, observing learning sessions, group and individual interviews etc. A key paragraph from the reports states that "The overall effectiveness of Honda's apprenticeship programme is outstanding and the programme provides exceptional value for money. Learners enjoy their training and develop excellent occupational skills, making a highly valued contribution to their workplace" The report uses a four point scale to grade the report (1 = outstanding; 2 = good; 3 = satisfactory; four = inadequate) and the record of main findings state that the apprenticeship programme scores a grade of 1 in each of the following main areas:
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• • • •
Overall effectiveness Outcomes for learners Quality of provision Leadership and management
The Honda apprenticeship programme takes place over two years for Lawn and Garden and Marine; and three years for Car, Parts Operations and Motorcycle/ATV. During this time apprentices are employed by their local Honda dealership and attend block training at the Honda Institute working on products
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within one of the five divisions. Qualified apprentice graduates achieve an Intermediate Apprenticeship for Lawn & Garden and Marine; and an Advanced Apprenticeship for Cars, Parts Operations and Motorcycle/ATV. Paul Taylor, Technical Training Operations Manager at the Honda Institute comments: “The Honda Institute is the home of Honda’s people development and we work hard to support skill and knowledge in our car, motorcycle and power equipment networks. A good understanding of both the economics of our industry and people’s desire to learn and improve is fundamental to our operation. Having the right skill and knowledge to look after our products is key to maintaining performance and reliability. Our customers expect highly trained and skilled technicians in our network of dealerships and that's exactly what we deliver through apprenticeships. “The grading from Ofsted is a real testament to the professionalism and passion of our people and underpins everything we do. Graduates from the Honda Apprentice Programme make up 20% of Honda (UK)’s car and motorcycle technicians, a grading of ‘outstanding’ reinforces that we are getting it right.” Honda (UK)’s apprenticeship programme has recently scored a whopping 90.8% - 14.4% above the national average - for its completion rates and 89.8% 24.5% above the national average
- for its ‘timely success’ score. As their titles suggest, completion rates show how many apprentices actually finish the apprenticeship programme and timely success rates show how many apprentices complete within the time frame promised by Honda (UK). Scoring is carried out quarterly by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) - the funding body for national apprenticeships. The Honda Institute was
opened in 2001, and is the home of people development for Honda in the UK. Working with sector skills and industry bodies, the Honda Institute provides a measurable contribution to business performance. Some 10,000 people are employed in Honda dealer networks, and the Institute delivers approximately 25,000 days worth of training every year.
Polaris 500 Forest All the ATV you’ll ever need. his new model features mirrors and indicators as standard, an automatic Polaris Variable Transmission gearbox with low ratio range, all wheel shaft drive and a permanent 2500lb winch. The Forest also has a rear hitch with machinery attachment point. The 498cc High Output 4-stroke engine unleashes power in abundance for towing and winching, with on demand allwheel and two-wheel drive striking a balance for all working conditions. MacPherson strut with 8.2” (20.8cm) travel combines with dual A-Arm Independent Rear Suspension travel of 9.5” (24.1cm) to give this Sportsman the stance, handling and off-road capability that takes the most challenging
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forest track in its stride. The ground clearance is 11.25” (28.5cm) and a turning radius of 65” (165cm) mean there’s plenty of room to manoeuvre when the going gets rough. A big 4.25 (17L) fuel load keeps you on track for plenty of miles and if you’re greedy for load and towing there’s masses on tap, in fact as much as 1786 lbs (810kg) unbraked towing capacity. As you would expect with Polaris there’s Lock and Ride, high beam headlights to light the path at night and a range of instrumentation to keep you fully informed on speed, fuel, gear selection and more while the Sage Green colour option blends in with the trees. Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com
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| Motors
Thinking of buying a new or used car in the next few months?
The message from Dacia is don’t…the 100-day countdown to the UK launch of Dacia and its “shockingly affordable” models begins
t a time when new car prices just keep on rising and value brands are moving further and further upmarket, wouldn’t it be refreshing if an affordable, yet still good quality, alternative suddenly came along? Well, dear UK car buyers, that time has come. Forget Bentley’s new SUV, the new BMW 3-Series, even the Toyota GT-86, arguably the most exciting UK car story in 2012 could yet be Dacia’s long-awaited arrival in the UK. Having taken the global car market by storm in recent years, Dacia is poised to shake things up a little in the UK, when pricing details are made public for its eagerly-anticipated Duster SUV on 28th June this year. With household budgets being squeezed more than ever, valuefor-money is fast becoming the holy grail. With its ‘smart-buy’ concept, Dacia is aiming to be the car brand of choice for new car buyers, offering exactly what they need at shockingly affordable prices. Dacia officially launches in UK showrooms in January 2013 with a twin offering of the Duster SUV and the all-new Sandero supermini. The first of the duo to arrive on British shores will be the multi award-winning Duster in late 2012. Set to wow buyers with chunky and unpretentious styling, impressive and versatile interior
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space, peerless build quality and unbeatable value-for-money, Dacia’s SUV will be seeking to emulate its phenomenal global sales success to date over here. The second-generation, all-new Sandero supermini will arrive in showrooms late 2012 ahead of official launch in January 2013. Again, mirroring the jaw-dropping pricing of its larger SUV sibling, offering a refreshing change to any other ‘value’ alternatives, the range will start from less than £7,000. Whilst official UK launch prices will be announced in June, Dacia is delighted to confirm that Duster, a compact SUV similar in size to the Nissan Qashqai, will start at less than £10,000 in 4x2 guise, with 4x4 versions from under £12,500. This means buyers can have all the space and style of an SUV at prices usually reserved for the smallest of superminis and city cars. Quite simply, no other car in the country will offer the same space, price and equipment for the money. Bought by Renault in 1999, Dacia (pronounced ‘Dat-ch-a’), reemerged amidst a blaze of publicity in 2004 with the unveiling of the four-door Logan saloon. Created as the first new model under Renault Group ownership, it set about tapping into the potential of emerging markets, including Central Europe, with a jawdropping price of 5,000 euros in
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some countries. To those in the know, the positive Press reports and website forum comments which followed were largely predictable, but the sudden clamour for the brand from Western European markets certainly wasn’t. Eight years on, and with five more models under its belt, Dacia has been valiantly trying to keep up with surging global demand for its high-quality, reliable and affordable vehicles ever since. Due to the brand’s unprecedented global success in recent times, particularly the Duster SUV, Renault Group factories have been unable to provide right-hand-drive model production. Until now. By late 2012, right-hand-drive versions of Dacia’s SUV, built at the new Renault-Nissan Alliance factory in India, will start arriving in the UK, ready for deliveries from January 2013. Thanks to an unbeatable combination of price, space and equipment, Europe’s fastest growing automotive brand for the last six years has appealed to smart consumers in every country in which the brand is on sale, who have realised they can buy a car which easily meets their needs, without spending more than they need to. In Western Europe, thanks to a growing model line-up, with
attractive design, ultra-affordable prices and solid reliability, Dacia has become an established player in just a few years. Last year, it claimed top spot in Romania and Morocco, and even became France’s fourth best-selling brand in 2010, with Duster becoming the best-selling 4x4 in the country. When it comes to reliability, Dacia really excels. Every model is extensively tested, primarily so that they can cope with the tough terrain and weather extremes in far-flung destinations, from Colombia to Iran or soon, even the Scottish Highlands. They also make extensive use of proven and honed technology from within the Renault-Nissan Alliance to ensure cars are built to stand the test of time, with impressive results: Dacia finished second, just behind Audi and ahead of BMW, in Germany’s 2010 J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction survey. Smart consumers eager to be the first to find out more in the lead-up to UK launch are invited to sign-up now at www.dacia.co.uk, where regular news updates will be posted in the coming months. Details of pre-launch activities will also be available on twitter @daciauk, www.facebook.com/daciauk or by calling 0800 99 11 99.
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Great Wall to debut at CV show with £13,998 Steed double cab pickup Not heard of them yet? You will... reat Wall Motor Company – market leaders for pickups and SUVs in China – will this month become the first Chinese automobile manufacturer to commence volume sales in the UK, following the launch of the Steed pick-up at the Commercial Vehicle Show (Birmingham NEC; 24 to 26 April). The Steed is a robust and highly practical pick-up that will offer unrivalled value for money. Prices will start at just £13,998 (CVOTR) for the generously equipped Steed S model – the lowest for any
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double-cab pick up in the UK. With a gutsy 2.0-litre diesel engine, six-speed gearbox and selectable-on-the-move two/fourwheel drive, the Steed also delivers class-leading urban fuel economy and the lowest insurance ratings of any vehicle in the pickup segment. . The Steed goes on sale through a brand-new, nationwide network of 40 Great Wall dealers. Handpicked to reflect the brand’s values and philosophy, the dealers have promised standards of customer service that will break new ground
in the pick-up market. The Steed can be seen in Hall 3A Stand 70 at the CV Show next month – the first time a Chinese manufacturer has exhibited at the annual commercial vehicle
showcase. Further details about the Steed and Great Wall’s comprehensive, high-value ownership proposition will be revealed next month.
Similar in size to the current car, the 4655mm Next Generation Outlander follows a clear design brief where in true Mitsubishi fashion, key directions were for an “engineer’s car” with a “Solid – Safe – Simple” shape, blending substantial look with clean surfaces, as previewed in the Concept PX-MiEV and Concept PX-MiEV II show cars. Whether its high flanks, raised beltline, uncluttered surfaces, strong shouldering or softcontoured fenders, the all-new Outlander offers a very comforting sense of quiet protection and safety to its occupants – a quality car of substance devoid of cheap styling thrills and designed for the long-haul travelling its innovative power-train will allow. Understated yet assertive, Outlander’s exterior design is further enhanced by a slim front aerodynamic grille with stylish
hockey-shaped chromed strips seem to be milled directly from solid brass as if to shield the threediamond logo, in-between the feline look of the sculptured wraparound headlamps. This same quality look continues inside the car with high grade premium materials (padded surfaces, soft-touch finish, silver or wood accents, gloss black appliqués) gracing a dashboard designed for better driver concentration, including ergonomic steering wheel controls as well as high-resolution and easy-to-read instrument displays.
Enviromentally friendly next generation Mitsubishi Outlander Harmony Manufacturer discloses its vision for the next iteration. leven years after it first coined the term “crossover”, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has unveiled its third embodiment of this concept with the all-new next generation Outlander at the 82nd International Geneva Motor Show. After a total of over 950,000 sales (as of end of December 2011 – including Airtrek – the first generation Mitsubishi Outlander) for the first two generations since June 2001, this all-new mid-size crossover is meant to comply with the times - a strategic and innovative premium vehicle, developed around a versatile global platform and borne of a harmonious balancing of: • Low environmental impact • Advanced safety • Comfortable driving • Clever utility • Added convenience
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Ashby & Mann Mitsubishi Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1RL Tel: 01455 250052
This unveiling confirms the start of an all-new generation of global products for Mitsubishi Motors, consistent with the ambitions set in MMC’s “Jump 2013” smart business plan for a greener and more global Mitsubishi Motors. New language Fittingly, MMC’s complete family of Passenger Vehicles / Crossovers / SUVs will also see a gradual transition to a re-focused design language, as seen with the all-new Outlander. While still being formulated, it is envisaged as an open concept meant to be flexible enough to suit specific vehicle requirements whilst staging Mitsubishi’s famous Three Diamond logo accordingly. This new engineering-driven look can be understood as the new expression of Mitsubishi’s near century old tradition of technology tailored for today’s world. New shape
Grenson Mitsubishi
Lewis Mitsubishi
Rodgers of Plymouth
Tees Valley Mitsubishi
Middlewich Rd, Crewe, CW2 8UY Tel: 01270 507490
Ronic House, Chicester, PO18 8PN Tel: 01243 574141
Brixton Rd, Devon, PL8 2BL Tel: 01752 402623
McMullen Rd, Darlington, DL1 1XP Tel: 01325 462222
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Orta secures UK’s first two 2012 Ford Rangers for Solar Park Maintenance A tough life lies ahead for these new vehicles. rta Solar, a developer and electrical maintainer of UK solar PV power stations, today announces that it has purchased two of the very first all new 2012 Ford Rangers to arrive in the UK. Only 20 of these groundbreaking pick-up trucks had arrived in the UK when Orta took collection from Hendy Ford in Southampton. Orta Solar are the first commercial purchaser of the new Ranger in the UK, a tough life lies ahead for these two vehicles. Facing a challenging task of maintaining 30MW (150,000 solar panels) of up to 33,000Volt Solar Power stations in all weathers travelling over a mixture of rough, steep, slippy & extremely boggy ground carrying heavy payloads, Nick Pascoe, Orta Solar’s Managing Director, carefully considered Orta’s choice of vehicle. “We test drove several brands of truck and read all the reviews and comparative tests that we could find. In one drive I took one competitor pick-up 100yards
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off road down a gentle slope and found myself stuck with all four wheels spinning. I drove the exact same route in the Ford last night without any drama whatsoever” he said. One of the routine service tasks that Orta Solar carries out on behalf of the Solar power stations owners is to wash the 25,000 solar panels per park. Usually this would be done with a tractor pulling a water bowser to feed jet wash and brushes. “Having fitted the trucks with Cooper Discoverer STT supplied after considered advice from the UK Cooper distributor Silverline tyres inWarwick, we can now put a 1 tonne cube of water in the back of the pick-up and both drive to the solar parks and then drive around them in the same vehicle to wash all the solar panels” said Mr Pascoe. The trucks were purchased after Orta read a Hendy Ford press release stating they’d taken delivery of two of the first to land in the UK. Hendy Ford are following
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closely how their first 2012 Ranger commercial customer uses the trucks and hope to share with other commercial clients the experience of Orta as it gets to grips with operating the truck both
on and off road. A finance lease arrangement arranged by Stuart Bowers of Vehicle & Asset Finance Ltd. to spread the cost over the typical two year maintenance contract that Orta undertakes.
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| Motors
Top that! Top hat star Tom Chambers takes delivery of new Jeep Grand Cherokee Bigger car was neccessary now he has another addition to the family.
ctor and former Strictly Come Dancing champion Tom Chambers is celebrating the success of his hit musical Top Hat with the arrival of a new Jeep Grand Cherokee. The stunning 4x4 Limited model was delivered to the New Victoria Theatre, Woking where Tom has
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been starring in the highly successful dance musical. The romantic comedy, full of spectacular song and dance routines, is now at the Bristol Hippodrome before heading to London’s Aldwych Theatre next month. Tom is keeping it in the family in
two ways: firstly, he remains in the Fiat Group ‘family’ after swapping his Fiat 500C for the Jeep, and secondly, the new car became necessary following the birth of his son, William, last year. “It’s well-known that I have always been a huge fan of the Fiat 500, both the original and the
latest model, but even I knew we would have to get something larger when William came along,” said Tom. “The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a beautiful car. With bags of style, an economical diesel engine and, importantly, acres of space inside, it’s the perfect car for my young family. I am delighted with it.” With 237bhp and 550 Nm of torque available from the 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine, the new Grand Cherokee has been designed on a platform delivering premium on-road performance while maintaining Jeep’s legendary four-wheel drive torqueon-demand off-road capability. And with significantly lower emissions than the previous Grand Cherokee together with fuel consumption of up to 34 mpg (Combined Cycle), the new car also offers real value in terms of running costs. The Grand Cherokee range starts at £37,995 (OTR) for the 3.0 CRD V6 Limited, rising to £45,795 (OTR) for the 3.0 CRD V6 Overland Summit.
Toyota Hilux conquers Antarctica on jet fuel Mighty 4x4 and 6x6 pick-ups achieve polar endurance feat.
oyota’s redoubtable Hilux continues to push the boundaries of extreme endurance, completing a marathon Antarctic journey of more than 5,900 miles, further than any vehicle of its type has managed before. And true to Toyota’s reputation for toughness, it did so without a single technical hitch. The latest feat, achieved as part of the longest expedition in polar history, adds to Hilux’s achievements of reaching both
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Magnetic North and South Poles. Remarkably, the vehicles used in the double trans-continental crossing organised by Extreme World Races used standard 3.0litre D-4D engines and transmissions. But to meet the demands of temperatures as low as -50°C and harsh terrain rising to above 3,400m the vehicles were specially engineered by Icelandic conversion specialists Arctic Trucks. Three Hilux – including two “6×6” models – completed the
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expedition, running on Jet A-1 fuel to cope with the extreme cold. Each clocked up almost 6,000 miles over four months from November 2011 to February this year. In all 10 Hilux were deployed by the expedition team, which trusted in the Toyotas to meet the demands of setting up a fuel depot and weather station and providing essential support to scientists and competitors in a ski race. Necessary modifications to the
vehicles included fitting a crane to lift heavy equipment and a 280litre fuel tank – 800 litres in the case of the six-wheel models. The suspension and drivetrain were strengthened, crawler gears were added to the transmission, and the extra large tyres were filled to between 2.0 and 3.0psi (compared to 29.0psi for regular road-going Hilux), giving a “footprint” 17 times larger than standard tyres.
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| Motors
The new VW Passat Alltrack: rugged and ready to order Everything you need to venture off the beaten track.
ith its raised ride height, 4MOTION four-wheel drive and rugged body enhancements, the new Passat Alltrack has everything you need to venture off the beaten track; but customers need venture no further than their local Volkswagen Retailer to order one, ahead of the first cars arriving in showrooms in the UK on 28 May. Based on the popular and versatile Passat Estate, the Passat Alltrack’s 4MOTION four-wheel drive and raised ride height give it greater agility off-road, while body enhancements provide some protection from scrapes when covering rough terrain. These features endow the Passat Alltrack with the practicality of an estate car and much of the versatility of a
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conventional SUV, while a high standard specification level adds more than a touch of luxury. Just one trim level is available in the UK, with a choice of two drivetrains: a 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS with six-speed manual gearbox, priced at £28,475 (RRP OTR), and a 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS with sixspeed DSG transmission, priced at £31,025. Standard equipment includes Alcantara upholstery, 2Zone electronic climate control, RNS 315 touchscreen satellite navigation, DAB radio, MDI iPod connectivity, Bluetooth telephone preparation, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system and 18-inch Canyon alloy wheels. A Driver Alert System that monitors the driver’s responses to raise
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awareness of fatigue is also standard, as is ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme). Options include climate seats with massage function; High Beam Assist, which automatically controls dipping of the headlights; Side Scan Lane Change Assist, which monitors the vehicle’s blind spot; Lane Assist; ACC Adaptive Chassis Control; Automatic
Distance Control with City Emergency Braking function; Park Assist (second generation); an interior ambient lighting pack; a rear-view camera; and an electrically deployed towbar. The Passat Alltrack has a generous towing capacity of 2,000 kg (braked, 12 per cent incline), 200 kg more than an equivalent Passat Estate.
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New Skoda Yeti Urban Limited edition SUV targets style-savvy customers. otor manufacturer ŠKODA is launching a limited-edition version of its critically acclaimed Yeti compact SUV. Called the Yeti Urban, it is based on the already highly popular SE trim, but features up to £2,450 worth of extra equipment at no extra cost when compared to the SE. The ŠKODA Yeti compact SUV has been a huge sale success since it was launched in
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2009 - more than 8,800 have been registered in the UK. It won 12 independent product awards along the way, and charmed UK car buyers with its on-road performance, family orientated practicality and rugged styling. This new model - restricted to just 750 cars - will extend that appeal to younger and more style-conscious UK buyers.
The Yeti Urban also sets a new benchmark for technology in ŠKODA cars. It's the first model to be sold in the UK with DAB digital radio as standard. Over and above SE trim, Yeti Urban includes Amundsen+ satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and a multifunction steering wheel to control the audio system and telephone. Additional design features include stunning 17-inch black-and-chrome 'Matterhorn' alloys, wheel arch extensions, chrome side strips, silver door mirror caps, silver roof rails and stylish eye-catching roof stripes. Inside, customers have the choice of red or black sports seats and sunset glass in the rear. The Yeti Urban is available in two-wheel-drive with manual transmission only, and comes with a choice of two engines. The petrol option is the frugal 1.2-litre TSI 105PS, which offers fuel economy of 44.1mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions of 149g/km. For diesel fans there's the popular 2.0-litre TDI CR 110PS DPF, which offers figures of 52.3mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions of 140g/km. The car's exterior can be finished in one of four rich and vibrant colours, with no extra charges for metallic paint. The options are Black Magic pearl effect, Candy White, Brilliant Silver metallic and Steel Grey metallic. ŠKODA retailers have a number of accessories on offer which include stainless steel pedals (£80), sports exhaust trim (£50), and Nextbase Click 9 Lite Duo portable DVD player with twin 9-inch screens (£315). The ŠKODA Yeti Urban is on sale from the beginning of April 2012 priced at £16,900 OTR for the petrol model and £18,330 OTR for the diesel.
A special introducton to the new Mercedes ML The all-new ML-Class arrives in the UK with two Special Edition models which offer outstanding value thanks to their extensive range of standard equipment and exclusive features at highly competitive prices. he Special Editions will be available with either the ML 250 BlueTEC or ML 350 BlueTEC advanced turbodiesel engines. The ML 250 BlueTEC costs £43,235 on the road and the ML 350 BlueTEC is priced at £46,335 on the road. To celebrate the arrival of the latest M-Class customers can also opt for the Mercedes-Benz COMAND Online internet connectivity system as an option for just £750 option on all orders placed before the end of June, 2012, creating a customer saving of £1,380. Mercedes-Benz cars equipped with COMAND Online enjoy above-average residual values, allowing highly favourable finance packages through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Exterior highlights on both models include aluminium-finish running boards with rubber studs, chrome underguards in the front and rear bumpers, 19-inch five-spoke light alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, metallic paint
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in one of four colours (Diamond White paint is available as an £815 option), and the Mirror Package of electrically operated, heated, folding and auto-dimming door mirrors. Their interiors feature Artico artificial leather upholstery with a choice of three colours and the option of full leather for £1,305, brushed aluminium trim highlights or, optionally, four wood finishes priced at £210-£380, a Multifunction four-spoke steering wheel finished in Nappa leather, front seats with full electric adjustment and four-way lumbar adjustment on the driver’s side, and an Audi 20 radio/CD system with a 5.8-inch colour display, Becker Map Pilot® satellite navigation, Bluetooth and a USB
port. Seven-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels are a no-cost option, or twin five-spoke 20-inch wheels are available for £630, allowing buyers to personalise their car. All the alloy wheels are new designs. Both engines are paired with the Mercedes-Benz 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic gearbox and feature ECO start/stop technology as part of an extensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures. They meet EU6 emissions regulations not due to come into force until 2014 as a result of an AdBlue® aqueous urea injection into the exhaust gas stream. The fourcylinder ML 250 BlueTEC develops
204 hp and 500 Nm of torque and has combined fuel consumption of 44.8 mpg with CO2 emissions from 165 g/km, while the corresponding figures for the V6engined ML 350 BlueTEC are 258 hp, 620 Nm, 39.2 mpg and 189 g/km. Highlights among an extensive array of standard features include permanent intelligent all-wheel drive with an off-road switch (ML350 BlueTEC only), Direct Steer, steel suspension (lowered on the ML 250 BlueTEC), rainsensing wipers, automatic climate control, split folding rear seats, an Active bonnet to protect pedestrians in an accident, ATTENTION ASSIST, Downhill Speed Regulator, an electronic parking brake, ESP® Electronic Stability Programme including Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) and Trailer Stability Assist, automatic headlamp activation, Hill Start Assist and PRESAFE®.
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| Motors
SsangYong Korando enhanced Revised SsangYong Korando unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show, wider choice with new powertrains,upgraded exterior and interior design, more convenience, new safety features and improved refinement, outstanding off-road capability thanks to advanced sub-frame construction and active AWD system.
t this year’s Geneva International Motor Show, SsangYong Motor Company introduced its revised Korando crossover. With new powertrains, enhanced styling and improved quality, the enhanced Korando is ready to challenge the market leaders in its class. Both convenience and safety specifications have been improved, while new petrol and
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diesel technology help reduce its CO2 emissions. The newly added 2.0 litre 149ps eco diesel engine brings CO2 emissions down to 147g/km (2WD, manual) and 157g/km (AWD, manual), and is expected to go on sale in Europe from mid-year. The new 2.0 litre petrol engine produces CO2 emissions of 175g/km (2WD, manual) and 192g/km (AWD, manual).
Enhancing Korando’s strong yet svelte design, the chrome-coated mesh radiator grille and contemporary looking hybrid wiper blades add a stylish finish. Inside, the trim has been upgraded to a carbon grain pattern in line with the car’s active look, and a high gloss finish has been applied to the switchgear to bring a more luxurious feel to the interior, while other specification enhancements include an improved LED illuminated instrument cluster. SsangYong’s engineering team has applied new features to improve Korando’s NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) qualities. Revised gearing along with a new engine casing helps reduce diesel engine noise, while an enhanced transmission control system improves the overall driving experience.
Like every all terrain SsangYong, Korando is designed to pull through where its competitors would be left stranded. Compact front and rear sub frames are built to tackle rough roads and steep inclines without body damage. In addition, the active all wheel drive (AWD) system and multi-function ESP provide reliable traction even on snowy, slippery road conditions. Korando’s excellent rigidity and quality have already been recognised during its victory in the ScanCovery Trial 2012. Driving 7,000kms from the Arctic Circle to The Netherlands in January, the winning Korando beat some 60 SUV competitors after driving through the most arduous weather with temperatures as low as -40°C.
Signs of the times for new SsangYong dealers Branding new dealers as quickly as possible demonstrates SsangYong’s support. sangYong Motor UK has embarked on a national programme to ensure that all new dealers taking on the franchise get their new SsangYong branding as quickly as possible. “15 dealers have already had their new signage installed, and we’re branding all new dealer premises as they come on board as fast as possible,” says Steve Gray, marketing and communications director of SsangYong Motor. “Following our recent national TV advertising campaign, this is further evidence of our commitment to support our dealers and build brand awareness at both national and
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local level.” The work is being carried out by Tara Signs and each dealer is being branded from a comprehensive kit of signs that is tailored to their premises, and follows global corporate identity guidelines developed by SsangYong Korea.
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Alexander & Ducan Herefordshire 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk
Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk
Hammonds Of Halesworth Suffolk 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk
Lifestyle Isuzu Kent 01892 515666 www.lifestyleisuzu.co.uk
Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear 01912 573309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk
B & B Tractors Straffordshire 01283 521522 www.bandbtractors.co.uk
Duckworth Isuzu Lincolnshire 01673 841410 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk
Jeffries of Bacton Suffolk 01449 781087 www.jeffriesofbacton.co.uk
Maple Garage Ltd East Yorkshire 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk
RVW Pugh Church Stoke, Tel:01588 620545 Holmes Chaple, Tel:01477 533560 Market Draylon, Tel:01630 653801 www.rvwpugh.co.uk
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April 2012 | Farming Monthly | 79
Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Peartree Cross, Ashburton, Newton Abbott, Devon TQ13 7RB Tel: 01364 652302 www.devon-subaru.co.uk
Cross Roads Treadington, Shipston on Stour Warwickshire CV36 4NN Tel: 01608 661544 www.subaruvehicles.co.uk
Lifestyle Subaru Unity Automotive Peterborough Ltd Mount Ephraim, Newark Road, Peterborough, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8AG Cambridgeshire PE1 5QJ Tel: 01892 515666 Tel: 01733 893704 www.lifestylesubaru.co.uk www.unityautomotive.co.uk
Carstins 324 Station Road, Balsall Common West Midland CV7 7EF Tel: 01676 533145 www.carstins.co.uk
Europa Granville Square, 48 Suffolk Road, Sheffield S2 4AL Tel: 08445 764869 www.europa-subaru.co.uk
Newcastle Subaru 53 Queen Alexandra Road West North Sheilds, Tyne & Wear NE29 9AA Tel: 0191 257 3309 www.newcastlesubaru.co.uk
Published on Apr 3, 2012
ISSN 2044-0200 Inside this month: Beef Expo 2012 preview, Solar Energy special, On Topic - McDonald's Farm Forward Programme, Grassland UK 2...
Published on Apr 3, 2012
ISSN 2044-0200 Inside this month: Beef Expo 2012 preview, Solar Energy special, On Topic - McDonald's Farm Forward Programme, Grassland UK 2...