July 2014 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

July 2014

Inside this issue...

Renewables | Is solar really out of favour?

Cereals Event 2014 Show round-up |

Tyres | Bridgestone aiming high

Root Crops | Overlapping season for carrots

On Topic | Food as medicine Also Inside: Animal Health | Farm Security | Fencing | Groundcare | Loyalty | ATV | Motors

Contents

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48

July 2014

13 27

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Features

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Regulars

10 13 16 30 38 39 42 44

Animal Health

06 11 32 35 46 49

News

Pig disease epidemic

Root Crops Industry news

Cereals Round-up from the Cereals Event

Fencing Chapron Lemenager look for UK distributors

Security Is your stored heating oil secure?

Groundcare Stihl have a new product

Tyres Bridgestone are aiming high in agriculture

All the latest need to know commentary

On Topic Food as medicine

Renewables Latest news and projects

Feature Do solar right

ATV The essential workhorse round-up

Motors Latest models

NEXT MONTH Arable focus

Buildings Buildings news We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or something you want to get off your chest? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com 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 2014.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

Connect with us: Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Jessica Hopper j.hopper@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Oliver Shorrock o.shorrock@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production studio@farmingmonthly.com Subscriptions subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

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| News

The Isuzu D-Max - a pick-up without compromise The Isuzu D-Max delivers the perfect blend of rugged ability with performance and comfort, making it ideal for rural workers and recreational users alike. he tough-yet-refined Isuzu D-Max is available in double-, single- and extended-cab body configurations, the latter featuring rear-opening side-access panels. The single-, extended- and entry-level double-cab variants form the ‘utility’ range of models. Buyers can also purchase the pickup in more sophisticated ‘Eiger’, ‘Yukon’, ‘Utah’ and ‘Blade’ specifications, all part of the ‘premium’ range.

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“The Isuzu D-Max is a highly capable tool for those working or enjoying leisure activities in the outdoors, and yet is extremely refined.”

Powered by a highly efficient, 2.5-litre twin-turbo common-rail diesel engine, the D-Max generates 163 PS and peak torque output of 400 Nm from 1400 rpm, available with newly-developed sixspeed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. The

vehicle records class-leading fuel economy figures of 38.2 mpg (combined).

Fuel economy is not the only area where the D-Max excels; 4x4 models are certified to tow a classleading 3.5-tonnes (braked; 750 kg unbraked) and to carry a onetonne payload. As a consequence of its all-round abilities, the Isuzu D-Max continues to win the hearts and minds of users and media.

Official sales figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) confirm DMax’s growing appeal. Year to date, Isuzu has already sold more than 2,000 units, a 25% increase over the same period last year which was itself a record year for the brand in the UK. The Japanese marque continues to lead the way in the UK pick-up segment, ranking number one in private and retail sales. Buyers continue to be impressed by the strong residual values, highly-competitive running costs and five-year warranty.

And the D-Max has already collected several prestigious industry awards since its launch, including Trade Van Driver’s ‘Best 4x4 Trade Pick-Up’ and

The Izuzu D-Max Utah

VansA2Z.com’s ‘Pick-Up of the Year’, which it won for a second consecutive year.

William Brown, General Manager of Isuzu UK, said: “The Isuzu D-Max is a highly capable tool for those working or enjoying leisure activities in the outdoors, and yet is extremely refined. It features an efficient Euro 5compliant engine, while also exhibiting that rugged toughness for which the Isuzu brand has built such a solid reputation. Every model is well-equipped, offers

impressive load-lugging and payload capacities, and brings owners the peace-of-mind of a pioneering five-year / 125,000-mile warranty. It delivers on every count without compromise.”

The Isuzu D-Max is available in three body styles – single, extended and double cab – with prices starting from £14,749 (CVOTR) for the entry-level single cab 4x2, rising to £25,995 (CVOTR) for the range-topping Isuzu D-Max Blade Auto.

14,000 more farmers go online for SPS 2014 More than 14,000 Single Payment Scheme (SPS) applicants in England have moved online in 2014, according to figures from the Rural Payment Agency (RPA). inal figures for SPS 2014, which closed on 9 June, show 70,249 claimants applied digitally for their SPS payment this year - up 27 per cent from 55,381 in 2013.

Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) changes due to come into force next year include a new EU

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farm payments scheme, the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), and the introduction of a new online system CAP Information Service (CAPIS).

Customer Services Director for the RPA, Justin Chamberlain said: “We have worked hard to support business and personal customers to move online as part

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of our commitment to reducing costs and improving service by offering more and better digital options.

“This is a fantastic result which leaves thousands more farm businesses better prepared for the changes coming in in 2015, including the new online service.

“In support of government ambitions to encourage digital take-up, we will continue to work closely with customers and stakeholders to further improve our online services.

“We will be helping people to understand how the new CAP will affect them, what they need to do and by when in order to move as smoothly as possible to the new schemes and IT service.”

Defra, together with the RPA, Natural England and the Forestry Commission, has recently issued a new leaflet. When read with the latest policy announcements, it will give farmers the most up-to-date available information on new ‘greening’ rules, which are part of the CAP changes.

Full information on all matters CAP Reform can be found on GOV.UK

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| News

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

CLA backs call to improve Select set for expansion BBC coverage of rural affairs S New branch in North Wales now open.

A commitment by the BBC Executive to improve and broaden its rural affairs coverage has been welcomed by the CLA, whose members own or manage more than half the rural land in England and Wales. esponding to recommendations in an independent review commissioned by the BBC Trust, the BBC Executive has committed to appointing a senior editor with responsibility for rural affairs, and to widening the range of relationships for rural issues coverage.

CLA Director-General Helen Woolley contributed to the BBC Trust’s review. She said: "For those living and working in the countryside, the BBC’s reporting of rural issues has been far too narrow, for far too long.

“Rural firms represent around 28 percent of firms in England and make a major contribution to the national economy, but their interests have often been passed over. Rural news must be reported with an appreciation for the

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complexities involved, and coverage must be improved to give a realistic picture of agriculture. Discussion with a broad range of experts is critical.

“The BBC is in a unique position to advance wider understanding of agriculture and to support efforts to tackle the urban-rural divide through more comprehensive, more informed reporting.

“We are pleased that the BBC has recognised the need to improve the organisation’s representation of rural affairs and we hope that appointing a rural affairs correspondent will be a significant step in the right direction. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with the BBC to represent the voice of owners of land and rural business across England and Wales.”

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elect has expanded to open an office to serve rural communities in mid and north Wales.

Providing everything from intruder detection systems to CCTV for farms, Select already has more than 400 clients in the rural security sector across south and west Wales.

With the opening of its new office in Denbigh it will be expanding to serve around 1700 farms in north, mid and south Wales.

The new office, at 8, Bridge Street in Denbigh, will have state-of-the-art equipment on display and customers will be able to drop in to test out systems and talk to security system experts before deciding to buy.

Select Security and Maintenance Ltd managing director, Leon Window, said: “We made our name in the agricultural security sector so we know that we will be providing a much-needed service and expertise.

“We also provide security

systems for industrial, commercial and residential customers and we will also be able to serve these clients from our north Wales office,” he added.

Come along to the new Select branch's show stand at The RWAS, Angelsey show, and the Denbigh & Flint Show.

Anyone who is interested in installing security for their business, farm or property is welcome to attend our stand for a refreshment and product demonstrations and special show discounts.

Select Security & Maintenance Services Ltd, 8 Bridge Street, Denbigh, Denbighshire LL16 3TF Call 01745 812 387 or 0800 046 1689 or visit www.sservices.co.uk for more information.

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| News

Farmers hit hunger for six in Cambridge cricket tournament Four teams from across the UK farming sector have helped to hit hunger in Africa for six by playing in a cricket tournament that has raised the whopping figure of over £5,500 for the charity Farm Africa. he tournament, staged yesterday in the beautiful surroundings of Trinity College Cambridge’s cricket ground, was organised by Farmcare (previously Co-operative Farms).

The Farmcare team were up

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against teams from Agrovista UK, which supplies agronomy advice and crop protection services right across the UK, the NFU and CLAAS UK, a worldwide manufacturer of agricultural engineering equipment.

Competition was intense in the morning with Farmcare beating the

NFU in a hard-fought first game.

Unfortunately, driving rain arrived after lunch, preventing a conclusion to the second game between CLAAS UKand Agrovista.

Teams headed for the pavilion where a host of stunning prizes were auctioned off, including an England cricket shirt signed by England captain Alastair Cook, a bat signed by the victorious 2013 Ashes-winning England side and a signed England team photo.

And spirits were kept high throughout the day, despite the rain, thanks to a beautiful tea and sumptuous hog roast. The cricketers were able to hear firsthand about Farm Africa’s work from NFU team member and Dorset farmer, Robert Lasseter, who has visited Farm Africa projects in Tanzania as part of major fundraising challenges he has undertaken. These include a 2012 NFU climb of Mount Kilimanjaro and a trek last year across the wild and untamed landscapes of the Tanzania Highlands.

Reflecting on a hugely enjoyable and successful day, Farm Africa’s Corporate Fundraising Manager, Penny Ruszczynski, said: Competition was intense in the morning with Farmcare beating the NFU in a hard-fought first game.

“Today is yet another example of the huge commitment shown for many years now by the UK’s farming and agricultural sector for supporting their fellow farmers in Africa. We are hugely grateful to David Watson and the team at Farmcare for putting on the tournament, to Agrovista who helped secure so many of the fabulous raffle prizes and to everyone who has turned up to play, make teas and support.”

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 09

| Animal Health

Rapid diagnosis to help fight against pig disease epidemic 2014 has seen a devastating epidemic of porcine epidemic diarrhoea (PED) in the USA, affecting more than 30 states and driving up the price of pork products. rofessor Wim van der Poel told delegates at the Society for Applied Microbiology annual Summer Conference how veterinary laboratories in Europe are working together to implement reliable diagnostic tests that ensure preparedness for the potential emergence of PED virus in Europe.

Professor van der Poel said “This is a serious epidemic of disease, which is affecting animal welfare as well as jeopardizing the livelihoods of farmers and driving up the price of pork for the consumer. To halt an epidemic like this, we have to respond very rapidly to new outbreaks of disease and for that we need fast and reliable diagnostic tests.”

The team at the Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen University in The Netherlands use a combination of classical microbiology and new techniques such as microarray, PCR, next generation sequencing, and bioinformatics to develop new approaches to detect, identify, and characterize microbes that are responsible for new and emerging infectious disease outbreaks.

In the case of PED, it is not a new microbe.

The virus has been circulating in Europe since

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the early 1980s, and now a variant of this virus is circulating in the US, Canada and China. For rapid diagnostic response in case of a potential introduction of this virus to Europe, five veterinary laboratories united in the CoVetLab group have started a project for the development, validation and implementation of a PCR assay to detect PED virus, and immunoassays to detect antibodies against PED virus in the blood of infected pigs. The idea is that laboratories in Europe will be able to run these as soon as possible, to rapidly identify the cause of any outbreak of diarrhoea in pigs.

“Being able to rapidly diagnose an outbreak puts us in a much more powerful position,” says Professor van der Poel. “There are many causes of diarrhoea, so first we have to confirm that it is in fact the PED virus and then appropriate action can be taken, including the implementation of strict biosecurity on the affected farm.

“We may also need to put more effort in developing an efficacious vaccine to protect younger animals born in future.”

The current epidemic of disease in the USA began with the first cases being identified in

PM's Antibiotic review must consider animal health too BVA raise issue of anitbiotics and animal health in response to Prime Minister’s recent announcement. he British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement of a review into why so few antimicrobial drugs have been introduced in recent years, and called for the review to extend to animal health.

Commenting, Peter Jones, BVA Past President said: "Antibiotics are vital medicines for both

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human and animal health and we are working hard to safeguard their use for the future, but it is clear that we must also find ways to develop new antibiotics in veterinary medicine.

"The development pipeline for new antibiotics in both human and animal health is at an all-time low and so we welcome measures to investigate how to manage this

May 2013 and, in recent months, this extremely contagious viral disease has torn through the USA’s pig industry, wreaking havoc.

Only pigs are affected – there has not been any evidence of transmission to other animals, including humans. Pigs are affected at any age and the disease is usually fatal to a large “This is a serious epidemic of disease, which is affecting animal welfare as well as jeopardizing the livelihoods of farmers and driving up the price of pork for the consumer.” number of piglets in a farm, due to higher susceptibility of their gut cells to the infection, as well as dietary factors and a slower rate of healing in the guts of suckling piglets. Once animals are weaned, it is unlikely to be fatal, but the potential for onward transmission is great, and there is a possibility of reduced productivity.

trend."

Speaking at the Association's annual Welsh dinner in Cardiff last night, BVA President Robin Hargreaves reiterated the importance of using antimicrobials responsibly. He said: "One of the greatest challenges to both animal and human health is the threat of antibiotic resistance, which has the potential to become a global catastrophe.

"To ensure healthy animals in the future we must ensure we safeguard veterinary medicines. And so across the country we continue to take a lead in raising awareness about the need to use these vital medicines responsibly.

"But we mustn’t simply pay lip service to the problem. BVA asks all veterinary surgeons to look at themselves to make sure that they are each playing their part and doing the right things."

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| On Topic

There is a growing appreciation that different types of food intake modulate the susceptibility to many diseases. Science is gradually beginning to decipher the relevant factors that drive the association of dietary intake with physical and mental health, including as to how physical and mental illnesses interact. This is exemplified in the case of depression, which when recurrent, increases the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease.

Summary Figure: Shows that the interaction of gut permeability with immune activation regulates the susceptibility to depression. Recurrent depression increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease.

epression is a debilitating condition, affecting more than one in four people over the course of a lifetime. Conceptualizations of depression have been many and various, ranging from decreased serotonin and poor stress management to internalized anger within psychoanalytic theory.

Recent work on the biological underpinnings of depression has thrown a different light on the nature of this common condition. Many of the changes occurring within the brain in the course of depression may be driven by immune system activation. An activated immune system can release proinflammatory factors, including cytokines, which can be taken up over the blood-brain-barrier. Once within the brain, cytokines can trigger a number of changes in neurons as well as in the other major brain cells, astrocytes and microglia. Astrocytes and microglia regulate neuronal activity and survival.

For many depressed people an early common indicant of a period of depression is a subjective change in the stomach and gut. The lining of the gut normally forms a tight barrier that prevents small pieces of partially digested food from entering the blood. However, under some conditions the gut becomes permeable to these small food fragments, which are then recognized by the immune system as foreign bodies, leading to an immune response. It is the inflammatory nature of the immune response, via the release of pro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines, which has consequences for the regulation of mood within the brain. During recurrent depressive episodes, such immune driven inflammation contributes to neurodegenerative processes that, in turn, increase the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

Different foods can regulate the immune system, with diets high in fibre from whole grains decreasing immune inflammatory processes, partly via rich levels of phytochemicals. Fibre also modulates levels of gut microbiota, thereby influencing the balance of good (prebiotic/probiotic) and bad bacteria, which in turn modulates gut permeability. Short-chain fatty acids are produced by the fermentation of dietary fibre by gut microbiota, which may inhibit immune inflammation. This suggests that increasing fermentable dietary fibre intake may decrease immune inflammatory processes. However, many of the different gut bacteria, good and bad, may trigger an immune inflammatory response under conditions of increased gut permeability. This can lead to a vicious cycle, with immune inflammatory processes contributing to increased gut permeability.

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Omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in many healthy foods, including legumes, leafy green vegetables, nuts and fish decrease immune inflammation, with diets relatively high in omega-6 fatty acids, more common in processed foods, increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Trans-fats likewise increase inflammatory processes, contributing to many medical conditions, including cancers and neurodegenerative processes. It should be noted that many of the benefits of fruit and vegetable diets are independent of weight loss, but are dependent on decreasing immune inflammatory processes.

It is partly via their impacts on gut permeability that dietary factors regulate depression and its association with neurodegenerative conditions such as the dementias. As such, the gut-brain axis is now an important concept in understanding brain disorders.

The gut-brain axis, especially increased gut permeability, also have treatment and dietary implications for depression and neurodegenerative conditions. Vitamin D, evident in many dairy products, has significant beneficial effects on immune system functioning. Recent data shows some association of decreased dietary vitamin D with depression and neurodegenerative conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Another factor with significant immune regulatory effects is melatonin, present at varying levels in many foods and which can also be increased by foods high in tryptophan, which is necessary for serotonin synthesis. Serotonin, in turn, is used to synthesize melatonin.

Many people are familiar with melatonin as the hormone produced at night that is useful in the treatment ‘jet lag’, by entraining our circadian rhythms. Melatonin is a powerful anti-oxidant and antiinflammatory, which also has analgesic effects. As such melatonin has been found to be beneficial across a host of human medical conditions and their animal models, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, as well as in psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression. Some of the beneficial effects of anti-depressants are likely to be mediated by increasing serotonin, subsequently increasing melatonin levels. This is an area of active medical research.

Overall, the influence of dietary factors on immune system functioning and gut permeability offers novel treatment approaches for poorly understood, and therefore poorly treated, medical conditions. This is likely to have future farming implications, both for livestock and crop production.

On Topic

The Gut-Brain Axis: Food as Medicine

BASF's Jonathan Ball

George Anderson Independent Researcher CRC Scotland & London Email: anderson.george@rocketmail.com Website: http://andersongeorg6.wix.com/crcscotland-london George Anderson is a trained clinician with many years of clinical experience, mostly in Psychiatric settings. In recent years he has published around 60 medical and science articles and a number of book chapters on a range of medical conditions and biological processes.

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Loyalty

Happiness, loyalty and the ‘art’ of good service Keeping customers makes good business sense but it's not always easy. arms are businesses and as such, they will also have suppliers and customers and various other dealings. Many farmers run multiple businesses in addition to their ‘main occupation’ holiday cottages, farmers markets, car boots...the list is endless. Many readers are also business owners and all might find some affinity to this short discussion on loyalty.

Now, in your various areas, you may have spent a long time acquiring your existing customers - but once you've got them, how do you keep them? This is a problem that many companies face and often fail at. But exactly what are the benefits of customer retention?

Well, the advantages can be many fold.

Studies across a number of industries have shown that the cost of keeping an existing customer equates to roughly 10% of the cost to acquire a new one. Clearly, retaining long term customers will also therefore lead to increased customer profitability as it costs less to maintain an existing customer that try to recruit a new one.

Long term customers with whom you have built a good relationship with may also introduce new business via word of mouth.

After all, if they are happy with you and your business then why wouldn't they recommend you to others?

And being happy with your business also leads to your staff being happier. Why? Because a happy customer requires less help

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and will have fewer problems (if any) to deal with.

The trouble is, these days, people are vigilant about 'getting the best deal' - and unless you make great efforts to look after them - they will desert you for a competitor quicker than you can say 'goodbye - and thanks'.

So how do you keep customers coming back for more?

Well - deliver great customer service…and keep delivering it. Make promises that you can keep - and keep them. Employ enthusiastic staff and stay on top of their training - some companies realise too late that they are your greatest asset.

Communication is also vital - both to staff and customers alike and above all, reward loyalty.

How many times has your insurance premium gone up on renewal (even though you haven't made a claim) - only for you to find that a new quote is better value - even from the same company? Is that rewarding loyalty? No! Remember, actions speak louder than words - prove your loyalty to the customer…don't promise it.

Here at Farming Monthly, we feel strongly that we meet all of the points raised above. We have a great product and we place a high value on our loyal advertisers and readers alike. We have both readers and advertisers that have been with us from day 1 (17 years +) and we thank them for it.

Our staff are friendly and enthusiastic (as you will know if you have ever called us or met us at any shows) and our advertisers are a happy bunch because of it.

In terms of customer service, nothing is too much trouble if it means that we can meet and exceed the expectations placed upon us. It is often tha case that we have extended our already tight deadlines to accommodate difficulties in providing approved copy for example.

We prove our loyalty by rewarding our long term advertisers with discounted rates and our readers with a low cost subscription rate which ensures that the printed publication is eminently affordable.

Communication is also vital - both to staff and customers alike and above all, reward loyalty.

I'm sure that customers reading this can boast very similar claims about their particular brand of service so I'll close by imparting once further thought and piece of advice that I was given many years ago - and it still holds true today: Always under-promise and over-deliver.

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| Root Crops

Herbert helps in hard winter conditions The newly introduced Variclean from Herbert Engineering, market leader’s in handling systems for the agricultural, fresh pack and process industries, has eased the problem of lifting in heavy conditions for many growers over the past two winters. he dire winters experienced in recent years caused immense problems for growers trying to separate heavy, sodden soil from the crop. The result was harvesting taking longer and growers lifting, storing and drying large amounts of soil with their crop, which is far from ideal.

Herbert’s Richard Newman comments: “We have been told that a lot of machinery currently on the market has been struggling to perform in the poor conditions and many growers have been forced into changing to wider, higher capacity graders in order to maintain the throughput they need, which is an expensive and not always practical option.

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Herbert’s Variclean is specifically designed for the removal of stone, clod and haulm and performs exceptionally well in heavy soil as well as lighter conditions.

“The Herbert Variclean has come into its own in the wet conditions where the 1800mm wide graders and 900mm wide soil elevators have maintained throughput. Moreover, the Variclean has actually outperformed larger graders with greater throughput and a much higher standard of grading, even in the poorest of soil

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conditions.”

Herbert’s Variclean is specifically designed for the removal of stone, clod and haulm and performs exceptionally well in heavy soil as well as lighter conditions.

The Variclean offers a choice of spiral roller flight heights, an automated “stuck item” clearing system on clod rollers, individual roller

drives for maximum flexibility and control, and an angle adjustable module for a variable cleaning effect.

Herbert Engineering can be contacted at +44 (0)1945 430666, www.rjherbert.co.uk and at Herbert BV on +31 40 20 10 434, www.herbert-europe.nl.

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Root Crops

Shropshire potato producers host leading technical event The West Midlands Potato Day attracted a good crowd of industry visitors on 19 June when potato grower Jonathan Bubb of J.M. Bubb & Sons hosted Potato Council’s technical field day at Lynn South Farm, Newport, Shropshire, where they grow around 400 acres of potatoes. otato Council’s Director, Dr Rob Clayton opened the event at the farm, urging industry to speak with ‘one voice’, saying, “The marketplace is crowded with competitive products so our industry needs to be loud and proud, and join together to bang the drum with consistent messages about potatoes. Potato Council will continue to provide the evidence base and the tools industry needs to ensure that potatoes are seen as a good food by shoppers, politicians and the media alike, remaining a staple on British plates.”

This message was followed up by Kate Cox, Potato Council’s marketing manager who talked about the latest market trends and consumer research around potato buying.

“Consistent messages and signposting are key” said Kate. “We as an industry need to help consumers understand more about the wealth of potato varieties available – and the key types – so they can be easily identified, purchased and used to make a huge choice of quick, nutritious and good value meals, to fit in with today’s time-poor lifestyles and increasingly fragmented mealtime patterns. That’s where Potato Council’s ‘Fluffy-Smooth-Salad’ signposting comes in which helps consumers choose the right potato for the meals they want.”

The morning’s sessions continued with a hard look at costs of production for potato growers, with Nick Blake of Andersons discussing efficiencies, trends, the correlation between prices and production and the key messages growers could take away from the day. “Potato crops are generally between 5-7

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times more expensive to produce than wheat crops,” said Nick. “Marginal gains are the only way to improve efficiencies of production – there is no ‘golden ticket’. So you need to understand your production costs to identify where those marginal gains can be made.”

John Amos, a Herefordshire land agent with nearly 40 years’ experience handling annual potato agreements, land tenders and leases, rounded off the morning with a fascinating look at risk and reward and the competition for land.

Ranging from ecological focus areas (EFA’s) to cross-compliance and entitlements, John covered the wide range of land planning issues that growers have to consider when either letting or renting land for potato growing, stressing that ultimately, land contracts needed to be fair for both parties, otherwise they just won’t work.

The afternoon saw visitors choose from infield sessions looking at soil sampling for PCN and cultivation techniques to aid strong rooting systems. Ivan Grove, of Harper Adams advised the best soil sampling regime, splitting down the sampling areas to obtain the true picture of PCN populations in the field. He added that, whilst increased costs would be a factor with more thorough sampling, these were negligible compared to crop losses incurred from increasing and undetected levels of PCN in your land. PCN multiplication can be 40-fold, so nematicide is needed even on low - or no population areas.

John Sarup of Spud Agronomy looked at the effect on soil profiles and rooting brought about by varying cultivation methods, and talked about how we are generally guilty of

overworking soils and that as each season is different, so adjustments are needed to your cultivation plans every year.

Back in the new farm sheds, further presentations were on offer, one with Andrew Kneeshaw from the Farm Energy Centre looking at the range of renewable energy “Potato crops are generally between 5-7 times more expensive to produce than wheat crops” options that can be used to power the potato store and save money.

The other saw Adrian Briddon, technologist from Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research, giving an update on forthcoming CIPC application limits for ware and processing crops. Adrian advised further that if you use CIPC, you must check and adhere to the statutory conditions of use and, now more than ever, it is critical users adopt best practice. The easiest way of doing this is to use an NAAC applicator. The Be CIPC Compliant website, from the Potato Industry CIPC Stewardship Group has all the information needed to help growers and store managers remain within the regulatory requirements and keep their stored crops in optimum conditions.

The day was packed with both business and technical know-how and thanks go to our hosts at Lynn Farm South and to the event’s sponsors, Greenvale, McCain and NFU Details of all Potato Council’s events and technical and consumer campaigns can be found at www.potato.org.uk

Micron launches Varidome band sprayer for vegetables At the recent Cereals event, Micron Group - manufacturer of specialist spraying equipment – presented its latest Varidome model which has been specifically designed for treating weeds in vegetables and other narrowly planted crops. he Varidome S3 band sprayer on display was fitted with the new narrow design Varidome 100 HiFlo shields which are capable of spraying inter-rows from 100mm to 450mm wide.

The sprayer was also equipped with a second spray line for applying a different product directly over the row. Varidome has a modular design which means the sprayer can be specifically tailored to users’ needs

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and crop. The carriage spacing and spray width can be easily adjusted on each individual spray head.

Furthermore, Varidome machines aimed at vegetables can be fitted with the narrow Varidome 100 HiFlo shields for spraying between the rows of crop and the wider reach Varidome 170 HiFlo shields positioned in between the beds. Circular shields with breakaway arms are also available for mounting onto the Varidome

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toolbar for situations where a slight sideways movement of the shield is required - for example, herbicide

application in between raised beds or within tall crops like fern asparagus.

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| Root Crops

Greencrop GCEP125W

Tops for carrots

Irrigation made easier - wherever you are.

Martin Evans, CEO of Freshgro reflects on the mainstream carrot and Chantenay Carrot season.

ecurity, and noise levels are very important.

Therefore Greencrop irrigation have now fitted as standard from last season a detachable drawbar, lockable cabinet, and also offer data tag and other moment security devices to protect your pump set.

Taking into consideration the legislation of exhaust emissions, with static engines needing to comply with tier III turbo market, Greencrop are using Iveco engines, in particular their new Iveco Industrial N45MSTX20 Tier III 93kW (126hp) 4 cylinder turbo after cooled engine. This engine has a balanced crank shaft (not all engines have), is suited to a static engine with its semi-electronic system, and has a high torque at medium revs which is ideally suited to the Caprari 80-4/3 pump.

It features very good fuel consumption (1.2 gallon per hour on testing at 1,700 rpm).

Standardising on the 93kW engine means the pump set can work anywhere; from the plains of Suffolk to the high lifts needed in Scotland.

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Since its launch, the all new Greencrop manufactured GCEP125W pump has seen great success around the UK. The pump is mounted on a 385 gallon (1,750 litre) fully bunded fuel chassis.

The engine and pump are all enclosed in a super silent acoustic cabinet, projecting the lowest noise level of 72db at 1m. Fully opening side doors allow easy maintenance and push button electric priming and engine start make the pump easy to operate.

Its water meter with pulse provides an accurate no-flow and high-flow shut down, protecting the pipe from bursting.

Combined with the very successful Greencrop engine protection panel with water level and temperature sensor, engine oil pressure gage and an any time changeable hour run timer, the GCEP125W is a pump that makes managing irrigation easier. The ability to monitor the irrigation using the internet or a mobile phone is fast becoming a popular extra.

Contact Greencrop on 01323 701992 or visit the website at www,greencrop.co.uk

he new season for carrots got underway in early June and very unusually actually overlapped with the old season. This was the earliest start to the new season anyone can remember and it’s down to the wet and warm weather conditions we experienced this spring. For the last seven to eight years, the old and new seasons haven’t even touched, forcing quite a long import period - for the mainstream carrot crop it would normally be an eight week import period, while for Chantenay carrots it is normally a 12 week import period.

This year sales of carrots have been slow, again due to the wet warm weather and consumers not eating hearty casseroles and stews during the winter and spring months, resulting in produce being left over and not selling through quickly enough causing the overlap with the new season carrots coming on line. This is in marked contrast to last Spring which was cold and wet and resulted in completely different growing patterns. Last year volume sales were much better we were importing carrots from April until the start of the new season. This year we are seeing the old and new seasons overlapping for mainstream carrots.

For Chantenay Carrots it’s a more positive story with volume sales increasing year on year by around +18%. Consumers seem to genuinely like the sweeter taste and are developing a brand loyalty to Chantenay carrots. There is evidence that people are buying them week in, week out and because the price has stayed the same they know where they are with them. The PR work encourages people to use Chantenay in different ways so they are popular all year round and then there is the quality factor.

As Freshgro grow the Chantenay carrots themselves and tightly control any contract farmers that grow for them, they can keep a close eye on the quality of the Chantenay carrots that reach the shops and this year quality has been consistently very high which has helped sales. The Freshgro farming co-operative now controls 90 per cent of Chantenay retail production in the UK, around 20,000 tonnes, which equates to 10 per cent of total retail carrot sales.

The weather and its effects remain a key talking point among British carrot growers, as with a surplus of carrots the question is

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what are the retailers going to do with price? The expectation is that they will be cutting the price in store and pushing the growers to cut their price to them. This will inevitably cause some farmers to start seriously thinking about how much land to drill with carrots for next season as needless to say they need to look at return on the land cultivated.

For Chantenay we are looking forward to the first UK harvest of our new white Chantenay carrots, called Sugar Babe and Purple Chantenay which hark back to the traditional varieties our ancestors used to eat, but are sweeter too.

The white ‘Sugar Babe’ chantenay carrot is the sweetest of the varieties but both boast the distinctive, traditional flavour that Chantenay is famous for. In addition, unlike other purple veg, the purple Chantenay carrot retains its rich vibrant colour when cooked. Although different coloured carrots have made brief appearances in UK stores in the past, this launch will be a first for the Chantenay variety and will also offer large scale availability.

They give a nod to the multicoloured history of carrots; they are originally thought to have been purple, originating from Afghanistan around the 7th Century AD, but in medieval times, a rainbow of colours were available. It was not until the 17th Century that they turned orange, when patriotic Dutch growers bred the orange carrot in honour of their king, William of Orange, after he successfully led a revolt against Spain to win his country’s independence.

At Freshgro we are able to remain fairly optimistic about the future as although the market for main crop British carrots is not growing, Chantenay carrots have experienced a year on year volume sales growth of around +18% and with the launch of purple and white chantenay introducing more innovation to the carrot sector, we hope to see sales continue to rise.

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| Cereals

Cereals cements its position as the UK’s leading arable event Almost 25,000 people attended this year’s sun-drenched Cereals event to catch up with the latest technical advances, machinery innovations and business advice.

AP greening measures, blackgrass and grain prices were key talking points at the event, which took place at Chrishall Grange, near Duxford, Cambridgeshire on the 11th and 12th June. Despite these potentially bearish factors the mood was largely upbeat.

Hundreds of crops plots across the showground reflected the potential across most of the country – after a difficult season disease wise, the feeling was that most crops looked to be set fair for

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harvest.

Jon Day, Haymarket’s Cereals event director, said the 500 companies and organisations exhibiting at the event had provided a wealth of information and expert advice for the 24,950 farmers, agronomists and other professionals who attended the show.

“The feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike has been excellent,” said Mr Day. “The arable sector is second to none when it comes to innovation, and there was plenty on show at

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Cereals, whether that be improvements in cultivating, drilling and harvesting techniques, novel spraying systems, or the latest precision farming developments along with increasingly powerful record keeping systems.

“In addition, there was plenty of advice on offer to aid business management. CAP greening was a key focus, but production costs, rents and managing the volatility of grain and inputs markets were also highlighted in detail.”

Cereals had also developed into a leading conference venue, giving audiences the chance to hear and discuss a range of topical issues with those in the know, he said.

“This was very evident this year in the first Arable Conference at Cereals session, partnered by The Oxford Farming Conference, which saw DEFRA secretary Owen Paterson, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs outlining and discussing the CAP greening measures that DEFRA had released just prior to the event.

“The fact he used Cereals as a platform to discuss these measures face to face with farmers and the press shows how important a diary date Cereals has become to all who are involved in the sector, extending its reach to the highest political circles.”

Allan Wilkinson, head of agriculture at HSBC Bank, Cereals 2014 principal sponsor, agreed.

“Owen Paterson brought considerable explanation and quite a personal touch to the event while he enthusiastically explained the rationale as he saw it for the rules behind the announcement on Ecological Focus Areas for England as announced the day before.

“His summing up with the phrase 'Thunderbirds are go!' not only showed his positivity about the way forward given the constraints of CAP 2015 onwards, but also his determination to help.

Now the serious work begins for each and every farmer.”

Cereals 2014 was a truly professional event, he added. “I was delighted with the professional image generated to allow farmers to be informed, to be inspired and to network in the glorious weather.

“The attraction and interest that Cereals now generates is exactly why HSBC Agriculture values its position as Principal Sponsor of one of UK Agriculture's key events in the calendar.”

"Cereals is the 'must go to' event in the arable calendar, both as a grower and as HGCA Chairman," The winners of the inaugural International Machinery Manufacturers’ Awards (IMMA), were revealed on the evening of the opening day of Cereals. These new machinery ‘Oscars’ launched

by Cereals organiser Haymarket Exhibitions recognise companies that have produced machines that stand out from the crowd by delivering a mix of innovation, cost-effectiveness and value.

The winners were: Cultivation equipment – Cousins of Emneth’s surface seedbed cultivator.; sprayers – Garford’s Robocrop weed-imaging spot sprayer; tractors – John Deere’s Direct Drive transmission; harvest machinery – McHale’s Fusion 3 Plus baler-wrapper.

Another successful new feature for Cereals 2014 was the Inspire Pavilion, which was sponsored by McDonald’s, Massey Ferguson and De Lacy Executive. This was very well received by the younger audience – future farmers and industry employees – who were informed of the vast and varied opportunities within the agricultural industry.

More familiar Cereals features returned, including hundreds of

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| Cereals

crops plots to illustrate the wealth of agronomic developments on show. Other specialist areas included machinery, working demonstrations, post-harvest technology, business area, potatoes, renewables, careers and education and the Syngenta Sprays and Sprayers arena, which showcased the latest spraying technology and equipment.

Tina Barsby, chief executive of NIAB, said the event was superb as always. “Well done to the Cereals team – we’re always delighted with the visitor numbers on our stand, which we’d increased in size this year to cope with demand.

“And it was definitely worthwhile with some great feedback on all our plots, particularly varieties, blackgrass and disease

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management, and superwheat.

Cereals remains a key event on our calendar.”

HGCA Chairman Jonathan Tipples said staff had been kept very busy by a strong turnout by visitors to the stand, which included scores of variety plots and a host of innovative crop management projects. "Cereals is the 'must go to' event in the arable calendar, both as a grower and as HGCA Chairman," he said. "I'm also a great believer in moving the event around the country, and this year's site was great both in terms of its location and its accessibility."

Cereals 2014 was the UK debut of JCB’s much-anticipated Fastrac 4000 Series. The machine was very well received, as was the stand in general, said marketing manager Richard Foxley. “The

show was well organised, the atmosphere was very positive and we saw plenty of professional British farmers and contractors,” he added.

Charles Blessley, Case IH Marketing Manager for UK and Ireland, said: “As always, Cereals provided Case IH with a very good opportunity to showcase our products to the right people. We liked the new location and there was a great upbeat atmosphere – which wasn’t entirely down to the excellent weather!”

Elsoms director Bob Miles reported keen interest in energy crops on the stand, notably hybrid rye SU Drive. As well as being a good feedstock, there was interest from growers looking to overcome resistant blackgrass as ensiling it for this market prevented seed

return. “We also had plenty of interest in catch crops and several new products on show - we had a very good event.”

RAGT Seeds reported its busiest Cereals event ever. “We were rushed off our feet the first day,” said marketing manager Sarah Middleton. “Growers were keen to see Skyfall, our new highyielding breadmaker – many had bought it on its reputation alone and were seeing it for the first time at the event. Cougar’s disease resistance also attracted plenty of attention after the season we’ve had.”

Cereals 2015 will be held on the 10th and 11th June at Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire.

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| Cereals

New from John Deere at Cereals New sprayer developments, a new Stage IV tractor and a soil moisture sensor system were all featured for the first time on the company’s stand at Cereals ‘14. he new M-Series trailed sprayer range made its working debut in the Sprays & Sprayers demonstration arena, in the shape of the M732i and M952i models.

Both sprayers are ISOBUS ready, so the machines can communicate with the tractor and enable ‘intelligent’ John Deere solutions. These include the Tank Fill Calculator, which helps the operator to calculate the correct amount of refill volumes required for each application, BoomTrac automatic boom height and tilt control and FieldDoc documentation software.

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A 6190R tractor equipped with DirectDrive was displayed on the IMMA stand throughout the event.

M900i Series sprayers also offer the new TwinSelect in-cab nozzle control, which allows the operator to switch between a choice of two spray nozzles on the move, at the touch of a screen on the tractor’s GreenStar display.

Developed and tested in partnership with the nozzle’s manufacturer Pentair Hypro, the system can be seen fitted to the R952i trailed

sprayer on static display, as well as on a demonstration rig on the stand.

Featuring a Stage IV compliant engine for the first time on a European John Deere tractor, the new 7310R model with e23 transmission made its UK show debut at Cereals 2014. A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system has been added to the engine and the fuel pressure has been increased to achieve more thorough combustion. The new e23 transmission offers 23 equally spaced power shiftable forward gears and 11 reverse, and is equipped with Efficiency Manager. This allows the operator to preset the working speed, and helps to save fuel by keeping the engine rpm at an optimum speed by automatically shifting up and throttling back.

Also shown for the first time at the Cereals event was the John Deere Field Connect soil moisture sensor system for field scale irrigation, which is available from John Deere dealers from this autumn. This is designed to aid water and irrigation management and agronomic decision making, as well as optimise crop yields, quality and input costs. A new element of the company’s FarmSight strategy, Field Connect provides accurate, real-time soil moisture data at four different depths, and can

wirelessly transmit these and other environmental data on temperature, rainfall and solar radiation, for example, to allow more accurate control of water and nutrient applications via the internet.

The John Deere DirectDrive transmission was also judged winner of the tractor category in the new International Machinery Manufacturers Awards (IMMA), which were presented at the show on Wednesday June 11th. A 6190R tractor equipped with DirectDrive was displayed on the IMMA stand throughout the event.

S7 and S10 can do much more than just steer The new S7 is the successor to the S3 control terminal and in future will be used as the standard control terminal for all CLAAS steering systems. The new S10 also features a number of additional functions. Both terminals are being demonstrated in operation at the DLG-Fielddays 2014. he S7 and S10 operate on the basis of proportional steering valve technology or, optionally, with the GPS PILOT FLEX steering wheel. They are also compatible with numerous GPS-ready solutions available on the market.

Both terminal variants can be used with other makes of agricultural machinery. The S7 and S10 support all the driving modes that CLAAS offers in its systems. A

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dual frequency receiver for the different correction signals from EGNOS through to RTK is now integrated in the housings as standard. This means that antennas do not need to be repositioned when switching to another correction signal.

With standard equipment, the S7 and S10 work with EGNOS; OMNISTAR, BASELINE and RTK corrections, and GLONASS reception can be activated via the terminal menu if desired.

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Users who only want to use their control terminal for the steering function exclusively, should opt for the 7" touchscreen S7. It boasts the very latest technology and is the right solution for this particular purpose.

Users who require additional functions, however, should opt for the S10 terminal with its considerably larger 10.4" touchscreen.The touchscreen of the S10 can display individual application screens as required.

These can be individual images, for example a full-screen camera image, or screens of various applications simultaneously.

With standard equipment, the S10 is designed to operate the steering systems. Users also have the ability to control ISOBUS implements and use up to four camera inputs in parallel.

Extensive reference line and job management functions are also available, along with SECTION VIEW. The functionality of the S10 can be expanded with additional modules.The optional AUTO TURN function provides significantly greater convenience for turning manoeuvres. The adaptive AB Contour function rounds off the

driving aids. This function, for example, automatically adjusts existing AB contours when driving around obstacles.

A separate favourites menu is another new feature. With this, users can design their own personal access screen and set it to show up to twelve of the functions they use the most.The new S7 and S10 terminals are gradually being phased in as of spring 2014.

Users who only want to use their control terminal for the steering function exclusively, should opt for the 7" touchscreen S7.

Ex-factory integration will be possible in the 2015 CLAAS financial year.

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| Buildings

Featured Dealers: Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leics LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk Ravenhill Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk

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Farmstar Limited Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786 Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

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| Cereals

Dryer production goes from strength to strength Chief Industries UK Ltd has doubled the floor area of its production facility at Maldon. od Watson, MD, explained that “increased sales over the last six months have resulted in 24/7 dryer manufacturing for the last 12 weeks. Recent orders include the largest dryers supplied to date, with a wheat drying capacity of 286t/h.”

The dryer production at Maldon commenced in 2010 and was part of an overall group restructuring and diversification. Since 2009 the company has increased its work force by over 100%.

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Chief UK also represents both Marot & Denis ranges of equipment from France Chief UK is part of the Chief Inc. Group, which consists of eight diversified core companies with a number of manufacturing centres, of which three, in three separate countries, are dedicated to agroindustry. Chief Inc. employs almost 2000 people.

The CD range of dryers has been developed to be exceptionally efficient and flexible,

offering an extensive list of options to fulfil as many customer and legislative requirements as possible. These include multi-fuel options such as gas and steam, or solid fuel and oil, multi-fuel, direct or indirect firing, fire detection and suppression systems, dust suppressions systems, additional silencing, heat recovery, indoor and outdoor, split columns, and stainless steel grain columns. The Chief standard range is from 10300t/h with a specification of fully galvanised bolted construction, pneumatic positive discharger, internal access, externally clad with thermal insulation, Weishaupt digital burners, Schneider PLC and touch screen control panels with remote internet access.

Ninety percent of the production is being exported to over 50 countries. This compliments Chief’s vast range of silos and associated machinery. Chief UK also represents both Marot & Denis ranges of equipment from France and can supply sales or spares for any existing installations, employing personnel with decades of experience.

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| Cereals

Spaldings launched Portable weighing for exciting new products at tri-axle trailers sun soaked Cereals!

As the sun shone, at was the hottest Cereals event for many years, the Spaldings team were on hand to offer customers new and old some well needed refreshments and some expert advice on their product needs. he company displayed a wide selection of their 10,000 products including some of their exciting new products that have been added to their already extensive product range.

Some of the new products on show included LED Polycarbonate Floodlights, Dynamic Automatic Weighing System plus many more.

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Spaldings also ran a fantastic competition for one lucky customer to win a Leica mojo3D

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Guidance System worth £3,200.

The Leica mojo3D is a precision guidance system designed to reduce input costs by enhancing driver accuracy and eliminate overlap in any field operation.

Save money and input costs whether cultivating, spraying, spreading fertiliser or any other field operation.

Work any field the way of your choice with the wide range of guidance patterns available.

Additionally, you can save time and improve efficiency with the option of Virtual Wrench support.

For details on products supplied by Spaldings, contact 01522 507 600 or from Republic of Ireland 1800 255 455, email: agsales@spaldings.co.uk or view the product range at www.spaldings.co.uk

Cereals 2014 has again proven to be a great opportunity for customers old and new to look over our latest offerings for the Agricultural market.

tems of particular interest have been the new “Hopper Weigh Indicator” for the poultry and livestock sector, spreader monitors with great new features for this autumn and our portable weighbridges.

The star of the show has to be by far the set of portable weigh beams that can be fob activated and used with our grain storage computer software packages.

Our new 4.0m portable weigh beams have proved a great hit with farmers and contractors with its un-manned capability. The new bigger beams combined with new developments in weighbridge electronics has seen the application of wireless technology to apply vehicle tare weights to an unmanned weighbridge from the tractor seat.

With no weighbridge operator and no need for the driver to get out of his seat, this latest development will reduce tipping cycle times at harvest significantly,

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and eliminate the need for personnel to operate the weighbridge system.

The WB6RF weighbridge indicator runs the whole system automatically including the traffic light, large display and printer and can be applied to any one of the vehicle weighing systems or multiaxle weighbridges produced by Griffith Elder.

At the heart of the system is the software, designed in-house, that you can pre-program with your vehicle details and tare weights.

The system can accommodate up to 99 different vehicle entries and a key fob devise can be allocated to any one of these vehicle entries.

Its so simple, as your vehicle is moving towards the weigh beams, press your fob, complete the weighing sequence and head to the dryer or barn to tip. The system memorises the weights and can print them out on a ticket or when required at a later time.

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| Cereals

Busy Cereals means busy Autumn for Dale Drills Dale Drills are reporting yet another increase in interest for their unique range of drills following a very busy Cereals. he three point linkage mounted Eco3 range of drills was launched at Cereals which will act as the ‘little brother’ to the larger trailed Eco-Drills.

‘The launch of a new machine is always a nervous time, but the level of interest shown in the Eco3 at Cereals has really calmed those nerves,’ said the Companies Designer, Tom Dale. he Eco3 uses the same unique, versatile drilling assemblies as the Eco-Drill and is able to run in direct, min-till and conventional seedbeds. ‘Visitors to the stand at Cereals seemed to like the drills versatility,’ said Mr Dale. ‘The Eco3 can sow at 5”, 10” or 20” row spacing, can place fertiliser

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alongside the seed and can ensure accurate seed placement in all seedbeds.’

The Eco-Drill also received a lot of interest, with customers particularly focused on blackgrass control. ‘Blackgrass was the main talking point of the show and it is clear there is no single solution,’ said James Dale. ‘The Eco-Drills wide working width ensures high output, aiding later drilling, whilst it’s narrow tines ensure minimal smearing in wet soils and do not create a seedbed for blackgrass,’ he added.

Dale Drills are offering short term hire of their drills this autumn and welcome interested customer to contact them on 01652 653326.

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Master Driers at Cereals The 2014 range of Master Driers that were on show at this year’s Cereals Show had many new features. he popular 12 Ton Model is fully Galvanised and the whole range introduces ‘New Age’ Technology which can be personalised to meet individual requirements, with capacities from 10 Ton - 45 Ton and flexibility in specification. We have also imposed a price freeze! All models are available for a limited period at 2012 retail prices!

The principle of drying remains the same, but, the emphasis has been to make Master Driers ‘user’ friendly. They offer efficient drying and simplified operation with manual or automatic programmes.

The new operating systems are incorporated in both the Electric and PTO driven Driers.

These operating systems include an Audible Alarm or Auto ‘Cut Off’ which will alert the Operator when the Drier is loaded, to avoid overflow of grain. Also included as an option is an internal Moisture Meter for monitoring temperature and moisture.

The Master Eye Telephone Combinator Messaging System will keep you in touch with your Drier, alerting the operator when drying is completed or if the Drier

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is in need of attention.

One unique standard feature on most models is the “3 Stage Burner”. It is designed with three fuel nozzles which operate in any sequence to give a wide range of temperatures. The main advantage is that it is not necessary to change the fuel jet which simplifies the operation of the burner when drying different crops. This option is available at no extra charge!

Electric Drive Models are becoming more popular as they can be fully automated and are operated by a small Siemens Computer Unit with ‘Touch screen’ controls. Incorporating a comprehensive menu control panel which gives the Operator many options depending on the crop being handled, allowing for burner ‘operating control’ and ‘top up’ facilities to compensate for shrinkage. All programmes are offered with full Automatic Mastermatic ‘Touch’ Screen Control System with manual override, all of which allows the crop to be dried to meet individual circumstances. Again this option is available at no extra charge! Visit www.masterfarm.co.uk for more.

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| Cereals

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| Yorkshire | LAMMA Show

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| Cereals

New Holland launches upgraded T4 PowerStar™ series at Cereals 2014 Features improved performance and reduced fuel consumption. ew Holland has significantly upgraded the T4 PowerStar™ series, which is the first in Europe to feature PM Cat (Particulate Matter Catalyst) technology for Tier 4B compliance. Showcased for the first time in Europe at Cereals 2014, it also benefits from Common Rail technology for lower fuel consumption and improved operating productivity and efficiency.

“The T4.55-65-75 PowerStar range is a hit amongst livestock and small scale farmers.”

Stated Luca Mainardi, Head of Tractor and Precision Land Management Product Management. “Its ease of use and segment leading comfort is perfectly complemented by up to 13% fuel savings and state-of-the-art and exclusive PM Cat technology for Tier 4B compliance.”

Common Rail engine technology with PM Cat for Tier 4B compliance: up to 13% lower fuel consumption and improved engine response The T4 PowerStar series is powered by a 3.4 litre, Common Rail F5C engine with PM Cat technology for Tier 4B compliance. Developed

by New Holland’s sister company, FPT Industrial, the PM Cat is located in the exhaust system downstream of the diesel oxidisation catalyst. When particulate matter contained in the exhaust gas passes through it, it is burned off. This filter never blocks due to the high flow

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of exhaust gas, and does not require regeneration. This system requires no additional efforts from the operator to activate the cleansing process and best of all, the system is absolutely maintenance free, an industry first. To date, FPT Industrial has produced 500,000 engines with PM Cat technology and the system has been designed to last the life of the product.

New Holland introduced Common Rail engines to agriculture in 2003, and today’s T4.55-65-75 PowerStar series benefits from this technology. Precision fuelling enables enhanced response when the engine is placed under load. Moreover, as exactly the precise quantity of fuel required is injected, fuel savings of up to 13% have been achieved. The flat engine curve between 1900-2100rpm maintains maximum power over a larger working range for improved operational flexibility, especially when working with power hungry implements such as forage wagons.

A power-to-weight ratio of 30.4 kg/hp delivers outstanding productivity while reducing yield-impacting in-field compaction.

The T4 PowerStar’s already industry-leading service intervals have been further extended by 20% to 600 hours, resulting in higher

productivity and lower downtime and operating costs.

Enhanced operating comfort: dedicated baler bar Operator comfort is of paramount importance to ensure productivity at the end of a long working day, as such the T4 PowerStar’s best-in-class cab has been further enhanced with the addition of an optional dedicated baler bar, which is used to mount in-cab monitors, such as those for balers and wrappers. Its location, to the right of the operator, means that it is in the ideal line of sight when working.

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| Cereals

Large capacity, versatile SS3000 shown at Cereals The latest model from Lite-Trac, the SS3000, made its dĂŠbut appearance at Cereals 2014. he SS3000 is a reworking of the Lite-Trac tool carrying tractor to increase gross loading capacity from 24 to 30 tonnes. The new model features revised underpinnings and heavyduty axles from Kessler, mated to the well-proven Cummins engine/Dana transmission driveline. With the up-rated capacity, the SS3000 is ideally suited to the demands of solid and suspension fertiliser spreading, as well as high output crop spraying.

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Specifically designed to meet the needs of the large scale arable farmer or contractor who requires easy to operate, simple to maintain, high capacity equipment and the ability to apply low rate chemicals and high rate liquid or solid fertilisers with equal ease.

The Lite-Trac SS3000 shown at Cereals is the second of its type

and has been built for a UK customer. Featuring a demountable sprayer with a capacious 6000 litre tank, RTK GPS controller with auto steering, variable rate and auto section shut off, the operator will be able to make the most of the highcapacity tractor's outstanding performance.

A key feature of the Lite-Trac design is to maintain even weight distribution over all wheels, whether the spray tank or fertiliser hopper is full or empty, and this philosophy is continued with the new model. This approach, combined with 2m diameter wheels, ensures low ground pressure, even when fitted with a 48m boom and an 8000 litre tank.

The all-mechanical driveline and air suspension allow high road speeds, comfort under all conditions and peerless traction, making the machine ideally suited to hilly terrain.

The SS3000, like its predecessor, is available from LiteTrac as a chassis-cab, or fitted with a demountable sprayer or an AgriSpread spreader. Both of these implements have been

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developed to maximise the advantages of the chassis, and have been specifically designed to meet the needs of the large scale arable farmer or contractor who requires easy to operate, simple to maintain, high capacity equipment and the ability to apply low rate chemicals and high rate liquid or solid fertilisers with equal ease.

The sprayer incorporates advanced features such as automatic boom levelling,

automatic folding, automatic part filling and full integration with GPS controllers for variable rates and automatic section shutoff, whilst the spreader has the versatility to apply a wide range of products with its split rear doors, headland restrictor valve and GPS compatibility for variable rate application.

Visit www.lite-trac.com for more information.

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| Cereals

How the crop protection industry protects more than just crops The Safe and Sustainable Use Initiative meets again for its' 12th annual Conference. eeting last month in Belgrade, Serbia, a delegation of more than 50 crop protection industry and authority representatives shared information and discussed ways to ensure the sustainable and safe use of pesticide products, an important tool for Europe’s farmers.

Each year the SUI conference is organised in one of the countries where the Safe and Sustainable Use Initiative (SUI) is delivered in partnership with other stakeholders. The initiative is running in 16 countries, and helps to provide farmers and operators with an easy-touse toolbox of solutions to ensure safety, the sustainable use of pesticides and the production of high quality food for a growing population.

'The safe and sustainable initiative is a great example of how knowledge exchange and knowledge transfer can provide appropriate solutions to current challenges. This conference provides a forum for all key players to share best practices on how to approach and train the farmers’ – said Jean-Charles Bocquet, Director General of ECPA.‘

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SECPA and ECPA - ensuring the sustainable and safe use of pesticide products, an important tool for Europe’s farmers.

The SUI Project has been initiated in Serbia in 2012 and it is the 16th project joining the

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practice handling of SECPA and ECPA are committed to enhancing farmer awareness of best and application of pesticides, including appropriate use of protective clothing, and safe storage Protection Association Crop European image: containers empty of disposal correct and products,

Safe and Sustainable Use Initiatives.

“Compliance with product labels and recommendations on protective clothing is very important for farmers’ health and the environment. In Serbia we have realised the effectiveness and value of raising farmer awareness of the importance of safe and sustainable use practices” – commented Dragana Dimitrijevic, Executive Manager of Serbian Crop Protection Association. Today the SUI project is run in partnership with other key stakeholders like the Ministry of agriculture and environmental protection and Extension Services. “At the same time it is important to communicate to the public the benefits that pesticides bring to sustainable agriculture and farmers, and the extensive training that the crop

protection industry provides in order to further improve safe use” – she continued.

SECPA and ECPA are committed to enhancing farmer knowledge on best practice handling of pesticides, including appropriate use of protective clothing, and safe storage, application and disposal of empty containers.

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| Royal Welsh

All set for another bumper Royal Welsh Show The pinnacle event in the British agricultural calendar, the Royal Welsh Show, is fast approaching. The four-day spectacle will be held on 21- 24 July at the showground in Llanelwedd and so far all the indicators are suggesting it’s going to be a bumper event. he livestock classes and special awards attracted an unprecedented 8,000 plus entries from far and wide, over 670 more than last year, promising a popular and exciting four-day’s of competitions. Numbers across the board have increased with more horses, cattle, pigs and goats than in previous years, but the largest rise is seen in the sheep section with 211 more applications to exhibit than ever before.

There will also be more tradestands at this years show with a total of 1033 across the showground and sponsorship from companies and rural businesses has remained strong.

It appears that the national institution that is the Royal Welsh Show has yet again inspired the rural community to get involved and come together to celebrate the very best of Welsh and British agriculture.

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Pre-order your tickets to avoid the queues at the gate.

In addition to the fantastic livestock, the great shopping and the free parking, the Royal Welsh Show provides something to interest everyone through its wide range of activities including forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports, food and drink and a 12-

hour programme each day of exciting entertainment, attractions and displays.

In recognition of the WW1 and D Day anniversary’s, the big attraction in the main ring this year will be the amazing King’s Troop of the Royal Horse Artillery - the Queen's ceremonial Saluting Battery of superb equestrian soldiers trained to drive a team of six horses that pull the First World War 'thirteen pounder' state saluting guns at high speeds.

The Royal Signals White Helmets will also be performing throughout the event with their traditional, thrilling and disciplined arena display on British Millennium Triumph 750cc motorcycles. In their immaculate uniforms, the team performs spectacular feats of balance, death defying crossover rides and outstanding acrobatics, showing all the qualities of teamwork, courage, trust, strength and agility that are needed in the modern Army.

Joining the two military display teams will be Equus & Falco - an incredible display of falconry performed on horseback, the ever popular Merion Owen and the Quack Pack, Inter Hunt Relay and trotting competitions and the Invitation World Team Championships Mounted Games.

On the first three days of the show there will also be a spectacular double aerial displays from the impressive Hawker Hurricane and the high performance Spitfire from the Battle of

Britain Memorial Flight.

Visitors to the show will once again be able to make full use of the Royal Welsh Show App. This bilingual tool will include a full timetable of events and competitions, latest results, information on traffic and the local weather forecast.

The App is available to download free from the iTunes Store (http://moil.in/royalwelshios) and Google Play (http://moil.in/royalwelshandroid). The App needs to be downloaded before arrival at the show.

Pre-order your tickets to avoid the queues at the gate. For tickets and further information about the Royal Welsh Show, please visit www.rwas.co.uk

See us at The Royal Welsh Show 2014

28 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

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| Cereals

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Fencing

Go solar – save our environment & your time www.electricfencing.co.uk is the largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK.

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e are experts in our field and have the most extensive and comprehensive range of Hotline electric fencing products to cover all of your electric fencing

needs.

If you need to manage your pastures this summer why not use a solar powered electric fence?

These energisers save the environment and save you time as there is much less need to charge your batteries. Hotline Electric Fencing have introduced a new range of energisers this year…

The Fire Drake Solar Powered Energiser. Also available are the Helios Hotline Energiser and Solar Assist Systems.

How does solar work? A solar panel takes sunlight and converts it into power that can be used by an electric fencing energiser. It does not power the energiser directly – the solar panel feeds the 12v battery. So an energiser during a sunny day of 12 hours will

we say consume 100 units of electricity from a battery. In the meantime the solar panel depending on its size will put back roughly 75%. The 12v battery is being trickle fed by the solar panel and therefore the battery will keep its charge longer before it needs a big boost charge on a conventional charger.

Solar Energiser Options: The Fire Drake is designed to operate at popular power levels, suitable for a range of applications with the panels carefully matched to replace the energy used while in operation. These well designed energisers have a battery charger included to keep the battery charged throughout the winter months when here in the UK we have so little sunshine.

• The Fire Drake Solar Energiser is available at three different levels: • Fire Drake 18 with 0.15 output joules and a 2.5w solar panel • Fire Drake 36 with 0.25 output joules and a 5w solar panel • Fire Drake 67 with 0.5 output

30 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

joules and a 10w solar panel .

Each of these energisers comes with: • 12 v internal battery • On/Off switch • High and Low settings • Low battery/Pulse indicator • Battery charger • 3 year warranty Helios Solar Powered Energiser is a 12v energiser which uses a 10 watt solar panel to charge an internal 36 amp/hr. battery (included). The 36 amp/hr battery can provide approx 16 days usage with no sunlight.

• Output joules: 0.45 joules • 12v 36 amp/hr battery • 10w positional solar panel • On/off switch • Low battery/pulse indicator • Rigid four prong stand • 3 year warranty Solar Assist Energisers: Many battery powered energisers can be paired with a solar panel and stand – creating a ‘solar assist’ system. There are 5 watt, 10 watt and 20 watt solar panels available. The level at which the panel will extend the life of a battery is dependent on the power of the energiser and available sunlight. The stronger the energiser the more quickly it will draw power from the battery and the less time the

If you need to manage your pastures this summer why not use a solar powered electric fence? panel has to replace the charge.

The ability of the panel to produce and replace the energy used by your energiser is indicated by the watt capacity of the panel, so a 10 watt panel will replace the charge quicker than a 5 watt panel.

If you are not sure what you need - contact us - we know electric fencing! Call: 01620860058 email: info@electricfencing.co.uk or visit www.electricfencing.co.uk

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| Fencing

Postsaver fence post sleeves Offered with 20 year guarantee. ostsaver patented ground line sleeves are proven to prevent ground rot in timber fence and gate posts. They are quickly and easily applied using a blow torch or high output application equipment and Postsaver sleeved posts can be installed without problems using all standard installation methods including post driving.

Their tough, composite, barrier construction means that they are able to maintain a barrier to the causes of ground rot giving assured protection against rot and decay even across post cracks and splits up to 20mm wide.

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“It is good to be able to offer the market a proven and effective solution to the problem of ground rot in fence posts and poles.”

Postsaver are now offering a 20 year guarantee.

Commenting on this move director Richard George said “Over the last 20 years we have built up a wealth of experience in preventing ground rot. In this time we have sold millions of sleeves in over 30 countries worldwide without a single reported post or pole failure to date. Our Postsaver products are used extensively in the fencing sector and are specified by many utilities including Network Rail for all replacement trackside fencing.

Our heavy duty Polesaver sleeves are used by power and telecom companies the world over to protect their high value, service critical wooden utility poles. Based on our extensive long term experience in these applications

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combined with extensive independent testing we are totally confident in offering a 20 year guarantee on our Postsaver sleeve products.”

Commenting on the changes

director Richard George said “It is good to be able to offer the market a proven and effective solution to the problem of ground rot in fence posts and poles.

Our recent substantial

investment in customer focussed improvements across the board here at Postsaver is a reflection of the confidence we have in our products.

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Renewables

Understanding energy It’s at the heart of everything we do at the Inenco Group. ur award-winning support and experience spans over 100 years! What makes us different is our track record in pioneering innovative products and services, combined with excellent customer care provided by our expert energy consultants.

Inenco’s service delivery teams are sector specific, so that you always work with people who understand the opportunities and challenges your business faces now and in the future.

We see this as an essential part of working together successfully.

Our investment in people and systems help us to move quickly from problems to solutions and demonstrates our commitment to training and leading edge technology.

Inenco works with all Renewable Energy technologies including (but not limited to) Anaerobic Digestion, Wind, Solar PV, Biomass, Hydro and Bio-methane. We have a strong network of clients in the Renewable Energy sector including suppliers, developers, project funders, installers, landowners and legal advisors; we also work with all generation technologies.

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Choosing Inenco for all of your RE needs will grant you access to our vast network of partners and suppliers, as well as a great deal of knowledge, via our skilled and experienced energy experts!

Alongside our engineering division NIFES, Inenco’s Renewable Energy capabilities additionally cover Feasibility Studies, Ofgem and RHI accreditations, PPA placement/management and UKwide energy policy.

Inenco is run in an honest and responsible manner, as we recognise this as a key to our success. Our commitment to the environment is also without question; our employee-led Green Team drives initiatives in energy efficiency, sustainability and recycling across our Group and we also support a number of environmental charities.

Our specialist knowledge, expertise and passion for what we do, delivered by our dedicated energy consultants, will help your business to become part of the low carbon economy and face the future with confidence.

Visit www.inenco.com or follow us on Twitter @inenco

Wind speeds renewables High wind speeds lead renewables to hit all-time high at nearly 20% of electricity mix. enewableUK says new statistics published by the Department of Energy and Climate Change prove the case for wind power. The figures show that 19.4% of all the UK’s electricity mix in the first quarter of this year was generated from renewable energy sources, compared to 12.4% for the same period in the previous year. DECC says the primary reason for the increase was improved performance and greater capacity from onshore and offshore wind power.

Total renewable electricity generation was a record 18.1 terawatt hours in the first quarter of 2014, compared to 12.7 terawatt hours the previous year, an increase of 43%. This is enough to power 15.17 million homes for the quarter. Coal, gas and nuclear production all fell in the same period.

Onshore wind showed the highest absolute increase in generation, increasing by 62% to 6.6 terawatt hours, with offshore wind increasing by 53% to 4.4 terawatt hours. This made onshore wind the largest source of renewable electricity, with the

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technology providing 7.2% of all electricity across the UK. The combined total for onshore and offshore wind was nearly 12% of all electricity. The paper also confirms previously released statistics for 2013, once again showing record performance for renewables across the year, led by onshore wind. However, the document does confirm that progress towards the overall energy target, including heat and transport, was below the interim target that the Government set out for 2013, highlighting the need to keep investing in renewable electricity – including onshore wind.

Commenting on this, Ms Webber said: “We’ve shown this week that with the right policy support by 2020 the cheapest way to generate new electricity, to replace all the older power stations that are closing down, will be onshore wind. It’s time for all politicians to recognise the role that onshore wind is playing in our electricity provision and security of supply and give it their support. Otherwise we’re signing up future consumers to a higher cost future, in hock to foreign powers for our electricity”.

Glasgow based Absolute Solar & Wind host renewable energy ‘advice clinic’ at Royal Highland Business provider of innovative US wind turbine ranges share expertise to Scottish business and farming community. he Absolute Solar & Wind Ltd team hosted an advice clinic at the recent Royal Highland Show; offering members of the Scottish farming and business community insight into renewable solutions that could drive down rising energy costs and increase revenue streams.

Situated in the renewables section, they were on hand to offer advice about the benefits of generating your own wind power, as well as the best turbine models to suit different locations and needs.

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“Advancements in the industry have made wind power a suitable energy source for almost any location.”

The Glasgow based company recently agreed a partnership with

one of the UK’s largest renewable energy solutions distributors, Flogas Renewables (UFW Ltd), giving them rights to turbines produced by acclaimed manufacturers including Bergey and Northern Power Systems.

The deal marks a significant move for ASAW, which has facilitated wind turbine installations across Scotland and the North of England on industrial, agricultural and commercial land.

ASAW’s Managing Director, Mark Newall, said: “As experienced installers we know first-hand that many of our customers are looking to invest in wind, but finding the right product for their land, or their business use has, at times, been difficult.

“At the Highland Show we showcased the range of turbines available to us through our relationship with Flogas Renewables (UFW Ltd), which boast unique features including

32 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

low wind functionality, the ability to shut off in dangerously high winds, as well as lower heights to overcome issues with planning permission.”

“Through this we were able to offer solutions to the common concerns that people had. This included that their land was not suitable for a wind turbine, which we were able to dispel by showing them how advancements in the industry had made wind power a suitable energy source for almost any location.”

Mark believes the partnership will enable the end-user to benefit from products that have been assessed and chosen by Flogas Renewables (UFW Ltd), as well as the land assessment and installation expertise brought by the ASAW team.

David Taylor, Business Development Manager at Flogas Renewables (UFW Ltd), said: “Both the Bergey and the Northern

Power Systems’ products open up a whole new development of wind energy in the UK and Ireland. Now, like never before, people have more options and can pick the correct wind turbine to meet their needs.

“The design, appearance and efficiency of these products means buyers are less concerned about impact on landscape, as well as maintenance costs. Attendees at the Highland Show will be able to ask the ASAW team questions and find something that really works for them.”

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| Livestock

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Renewables

Qatar Solar Energy signs landmark agreement with Kazatomprom to accelerate Qatar’s renewable energy production Qatar Solar Energy (QSE), the largest solar technology development and manufacturing facility in the MENA region, has signed a landmark agreement with Kazatomprom, a multi-billion dollar energy company based in the Republic of Kazakhstan. ith this landmark agreement QSE has secured solar grade silicon, the raw material used to make solar panels, at an extremely competitive fixed cost for the next ten years.

The agreement puts Qatar in a leadership position in the market given that demand for raw polysilicon will continue to grow as the global need for solar energy increases exponentially in the near future. The agreement, which was signed by Salim Abbassi, CEO of QSE and Mr. Azat Betekbaev, Chairman of Kazatomprom’s solar division, will also contribute to accelerating QSE’s solar power purchase agreements (PPA) in Kazakhstan.

Kazatomprom, ranked as the world's largest producer of uranium, has been active in renewable energy since 2009. The company implements a number of high tech innovative projects in the sustainable energy sector including the production of photovoltaic modules (Astana

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Solar), the production of ingots, wafers and cells (Kazakhstan Solar Silicon) and solar grade silicon production (Kaz Silicon).

In a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Mr. Abbassi commented on Kazakh national TV: “This partnership allows QSE to secure the entire value chain from raw material to smart-grid development and provides a powerful foundation from which QSE will further expand its production capacity to 2.5 GW.” “The steady supply of quality raw material is crucial to Qatar Solar Energy’s mission to deliver on the promise of low cost and affordable renewable energy for populations across the world.

Solar grade silicon from Kazatomprom will be used in the manufacture of QSE’s innovative products that are designed to perform in the most demanding environments present across the planet. By lowering costs and increasing efficiency, QSE is accelerating the democratization of renewable energy worldwide,”

said Mr. Abbassi. “QSE is achieving this by combining research, development and manufacturing under one roof to form a fully integrated value chain.

QSE, when it reaches capacity of 2.5 GW, will make Qatar one of the largest producers of solar power in the world, contrasted with the total combined capacity of production in Europe and the US which currently stands at 3.4 GW.” QSE is making remarkable strides having launched its solar technology research and production facility in the MENA region in June 2014 and the subsequent signing of this landmark agreement with Kazatomprom. QSE is quickly putting Qatar in a leadership position for both exporting innovative solar renewable energy technology products and knowledge transfer on high

performance cells, modules, and smart-grid development.

“This partnership allows QSE to secure the entire value chain from raw material to smart-grid development and provides a powerful foundation from which QSE will further expand its production capacity to 2.5 GW.” QSE and Kazatomprom have also committed to deepening their mutual engagement in the form of knowledge-sharing and training to drive the solar industry forward. In September 2014, the first delegation of Kazatomprom engineers will travel to QSE headquarters in Qatar to initiate the knowledge-sharing engagement.

Greenvale lets the sun shine in and counts the benefit Greenvale, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of fresh potatoes, has successfully installed more than 2,100 Solar PV panels across four sites which over 12 months will generate 425,642kWh of electricity - enough energy to power 104 homes for a year or to boil 16 million cups of tea. he sites in Cambridgeshire, Berwickshire, Cornwall and Perthshire, however, will be using the generated power to quite different effect - to help run the packing lines where the 500,000 tonnes of Greenvale potatoes are packed for their customers every year.

As well as generating electricity the solar panels save dramatically on the company’s Co2 emissions – an estimated 204,735kg - the equivalent weight of 174 Ford Focus cars.

The solar panels which were installed in collaboration with Cambridgeshire firm, Beechdale Energy Ltd, are part of Greenvale’s environment strategy which aims to reduce the company’s water use by 50%, Co2 emissions by 20% and eliminate landfill waste by the end of 2015.

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Jo-Anne Baptie, Group HSE Manager for Greenvale, said: “It has taken a little under a year to complete this quite ambitious solar panel installation programme. The four sites are now looking forward to reaping the benefits of cutting their Co2 emissions significantly helping them to reach their target of 20% by the end of 2015. I am proud to be part of a business that takes its environmental responsibilities so seriously and which is prepared to make a substantial investment in green energy.”

For more information about Greenvale and its environmental strategy visit www.greenvale.co.uk.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Feature

Do solar the right way

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Devon farmer sheds light on diversifying into solar successfully. evonshire farmer Mr Gilbert Churchill, of Newlands Farm in Axminster, has nothing but praise for the large scale solar farm that has now diversified the income of his farm.

Mr Churchill shares his experience with us so that other land owners can benefit from the valuable lessons he learned. He explains exactly how to ensure you get the best offer for your land and what to look for in a responsible solar developer.

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Firstly, we asked Mr Churchill what made him opt for installing a solar farm rather than other renewable energy technologies. He tells us, “It’s environmentally friendly and it suits the farm industry very much because it gives a secure regular income. That’s very important to me and to other farmers as the industry is struggling at the moment to make ends meet.

It’s a lifeline.”

“Then with solar panels you can run sheep, as I do. It’s very quiet, you don’t know it’s there, and it’s generating power for the local community. People don’t realise that these solar farms they put in here, they’re generating energy for people in the area. A lot of people think, “Oh, they’re generating power and it’s going up the country”, but it’s not. It keeps local businesses going, and keeps our homes powered. And it’s clean energy and it’s lowering our carbon footprint.”

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You can then get a feel for which company has the most experience

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swift and quarterly rental payments can begin immediately. This has allowed Lightsource to become the largest operator of solar farms in the United Kingdom, managing over 4000 acres of farmland that has been diversified with solar power.

“Another thing you need to ask about is planning. The developer should tell you their process in obtaining planning permission.

Make sure you ask them how many planning applications they have made and how many were successful. This will give you an idea of how the planning will go.”

It is important for farmers to ask plenty of questions and to learn about the track record of any developer they’re considering entering into an agreement with. One of the best ways to ensure success is for farmers to go directly to a reputable company that have built many sites before in the UK and are able to manage the whole process from initial meeting with the land owners to reinstating the site back to its original condition in 25-30 years’ time.

Mr Churchill highlights the importance of land use and making the best use of the solar farm. A typical solar farm only takes up 30 per cent of the leased area, leaving the rest of the land open for various types of diversification.

This includes the grazing of small livestock such as sheep or chickens, along with a number of other practices. Fortunately, there is now best practice guidance issued by the National Solar Centre to ensure responsible and sustainable land management practices are carried out on land that has been allocated to solar farming.

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since the solar panels went in: “Yes, they’ve put in lots of hedges to hide it all away, which is brilliant, and the people [Lightsource] who came in to do it were very good. I’ve got hollies, beeches, and some hawthorn. That was done straight after and is growing nicely.”

“I’ve got wild bees under the panels, this past year we’ve had masses of butterflies I haven’t seen for years, ladybirds, grasshoppers, lots of insects all coming back and enjoying the shelter. And the birds love it!

The birds are absolutely enjoying it because it’s a place where they can live and be happy and there’s lots of food!

“The solar farm supports wildlife because it can work alongside Mother Nature. Plants and animals can live peacefully underneath it and you can run stock under it… which is great. As I said, the solar farm has worked with the community very well, and the wildlife.”

Mr Churchill finishes by offering these two tips to any farmer who is considering leasing out land to a solar farm developer, “I would advise farmers to research solar companies that operate solar farms locally and regionally.

You should request to view their projects and speak with some of their clients. You can then get a feel for which company has the most experience and can make you the best offer.

This is a long term agreement, you need to be sure the company operating and looking after the solar farm is going to be around for at least 25 years.”

The solar farm supports wildlife because it can work alongside Mother Nature

Mr Churchill continues, “You need to find out at the start where the money or investment is coming from and who is going to own and operate the solar farm for its lifetime. This will determine how many companies are in the contractual chain and how quickly your solar farm can be developed. The lesser number of people involved, the better for you and the quicker the solar farm will be done.”

Lightsource Renewable Energy has leapt to the forefront of solar farm development because they have their funding secured. This means that contractual negotiations can be

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Lightsource works closely with the land owner early on in the process, agreeing a land management plan with them to put the land to best use. For example, biodiversity enhancements like sowing wildflower seeds around the field boundaries can be implemented according to the stocking density requirements. We asked Mr Churchill if biodiversity had improved at Newlands Farm

For more information on Lightsource Renewable Energy, visit: www.lightsource-re.co.uk or phone 0333 200 0755

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Renewables

Securing your solar investment Photovoltaic (PV) panels, cabling and other hardware are a high risk target for thieves. ot only are they attracted by the value of the material, but PV panels can be seen as a ‘quick win’ due to them being sited in often remote locations.

As PV panels are a major investment for landowners, investment in a security system to protect these assets is crucial.

More frequently insurers are demanding that security measures are put into place to ensure around the clock protection.

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Due to the nature of PV panels sited on agriculture land, GBSG only use movement detection systems that use adaptive threshold technology to ensure there is a low possibility of nuisance alarms caused by vegetation, small animals and sudden environmental changes.

The purpose of any security system is to prevent criminal activity from happening. Some have advocated alarms being fitted

to the PV panels, but that is a reactionary step; once thieves are on site there is little that can be done to protect property. Crime prevention is far more cost effective than dealing with a crime after it occurs.

A company that specialises in solar farm security is GBSG. Based in Lincolnshire, GBSG are well aware of the threats that landowners face and are applying the systems that they design, install and monitor for large scale solar parks to the smaller, more bespoke sites on agriculture land.

The systems that GBSG advocate focus on securing the perimeter of sites through installing a network of discrete CCTV cameras with detection software, and supporting this with a comprehensive CCTV monitoring package.

How it works is that if any activity is detected, the system will immediately transmit live alarmed images to GBSG’s NSI Gold standard monitoring centre. It takes the monitoring centre seconds to assess if the movement detected is an intruder and should any persons be seen,

the monitoring centre will use an audio-challenge tannoy system to warn them that they are being monitored on live CCTV and that, if necessary, the relevant authorities will be called.

This in itself is usually enough to deter the potential intruder, but if they remain near to the perimeter the police will be called and GBSG’s monitoring centre will stay focused on the activity until the police arrive on site. All the time the potential threat is being recorded on live CCTV, and

through the use of advanced infrared or thermal imaging cameras, image quality is high and can be shared with the police to try and identify the threat as soon as possible.

Due to the nature of PV panels sited on agriculture land, GBSG only use movement detection systems that use adaptive threshold technology to ensure there is a low possibility of nuisance alarms caused by vegetation, small animals and sudden environmental changes.

Avoiding the pitfalls of solar Growth in the field-scale solar market is currently running at 600% across the UK will have been or will be approached by solar farm nowing how to avoid the common pitfalls of such approaches, pushing forwards as quickly as possible, and maintaining control of the process gives landowners the best chance of success, says Hugh Taylor, Director of EnergyMyWay’s specialist largescale renewables arm, Energy Assets.

“With changes to ROCs and Contracts for Differences - the Government tariffs for renewable energy - now confirmed for March 2015, time is becoming a major factor in the solar farming industry. Many solar farm prospectors are entering this lucrative market and offering landowners exclusivity agreements and very favourable terms – but these must be looked at closely before committing to any single developer,” says Mr Taylor.

With solar farms generating ground rents in the region of £1,000 per acre over 20+ years, solar farm developments offer a

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36 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

sustainable source of income to farmers and landowners. Yet whilst solar developer offers can seem attractive at face value, they need careful consideration to avoid the risks these approaches could bring. These include: Inexperienced developers without the skills, experience or capital to secure the grid or planning permissions needed to progress the site.

Promises of high ground rents to persuade landowners to sign an exclusivity agreement. But, if the ground rents are too high, the site will not offer attractive returns and the developer will be unable to sell it to an infrastructure fund, who ultimately signs the option to lease, builds and commissions the solar farm and pays the ground rent to the landowner.

Some developers sign-up large numbers of potential sites in an area to an exclusivity agreement, and then pick only those they feel have the strongest chance of progressing. The other sites are then simply “land-banked”

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| Renewables

Why Solar PV is still a fantastic investment Addressing the misconception that solar renewable energy is no longer a viable option. he feed-in tariff rate, which is the amount the government guarantee you’ll receive for each unit of renewable electricity your system produces, is reviewed periodically and usually adjusted downwards, which has led to a misconception that renewable energy is no longer a financially viable option.

However this is only half of the story. Yes, the tariffs have been reduced, but the cost of solar PV hardware has decreased in line with the feed-in tariff reduction which, in broad terms, means the same double-digit returns are still available today.

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Bowler Energy specialises in providing renewable energy solutions for agricultural and commercial clients.

Take a 50kWp ground-mounted PV system installed in mid Wales, which should produce around 46,900kWh of electricity per year.

In 2010 this system would have cost £135,000 to supply and install

and you could have expected a total annual financial benefit of around £18,478. This figure is based on the 1st April 2010 feed-in tariff rate of 32.9p, with 50% of production used on site (therefore saving, say, 10p per unit on electricity that would otherwise have been bought in) and 50% sold back to the National Grid at 3p per unit. The return on investment for a 2010-built system, based on these figures, was around 13.7% with a payback of period of about 7.3 years.

Nowadays, that same solar PV system would only cost approximately £56,500 supplied

and installed. The feed-in tariff as at 1st April 2014 is 12.13p per unit and the export rate is around 4.77p, however electricity prices have increased significantly since 2010 so it’s fair to say every unit used on site saves around 12p compared to the cost of buying in.

This would give a total annual financial benefit of approximately £9,558, which equates to a ROI of 16.9% and a payback of around 5.9 years. Once you secure the feed-in-tariff, the rate is indexlinked and guaranteed for 20 years which means your financial benefit will increase year on year.

In fact, with electricity prices

predicted to continue to rise, a solar PV system can provide much needed protection against future price increases by fixing some or all of your energy costs.

Bowler Energy specialises in providing renewable energy solutions for agricultural and commercial clients, who are often very heavy users of electricity. The good news here is that the more of your own electricity you use, the less you have to buy in, and the greater the financial benefit becomes. We strongly believe that financial benefits of a solar PV system should continue to hold strong for the foreseeable future.

farm developer approaches per year and many farmers and landowners with viable sites developers. indefinitely and in signing exclusivity the landowner will have forfeited any opportunity they may have had.

“To avoid these common pitfalls, landowners need to take specialist, independent renewables advice at the very beginning of the process, before they commit to any single developer. Moving fast to secure vital grid capacity is critical as other sites may be competing for the finite grid capacity in the area.

But, keeping options open and not entering exclusivity agreements until all avenues are explored avoids landowners negotiating rental terms from a position of weakness,” says Mr Taylor.

Working in partnership with legal, tax and finance experts; credible and specialist developers; and infrastructure funds, Energy Assets acts independently to guide landowners to the most suitable developers for their site, ensuring the process runs smoothly and

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keeping the landowner in control throughout.

If you are a landowner and you would like help in reviewing the energy potential on your farm, or have been approached by a solar developer and want some guidance, contact Hugh Taylor with no obligation and in confidence by email hugh.taylor@energymyway.co.uk or call 01993 830571 or 07979 647294. Or visit www.energymyway.co.uk/assets for more information.

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Security

Don’t be a victim of oil theft during the summer holidays Domestic oil theft is on the rise. That’s the message from FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) urging domestic oil consumers to be extra vigilant when it comes to safeguarding their supply during the summer holiday period. he oil in your tank is a valuable resource, which could lead to its theft during the summer months when people leave their property empty while on holiday, and such thefts are showing a rise in frequency. One look at the local newspapers and police reports will confirm that it’s a phenomenon that’s happening right across the country.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of oil theft. The FPS has the following advice for consumers: If your tank has a lid, fit locks. This may be a legal requirement for some tanks. Your tank installation engineer or fuel delivery company will be able to advise you.

Consumers with the ‘vent and fill’ design should fit the lockable cap designed to secure this type of container. Of course, locking your tank may prevent your supplier from filling your tank if you’re not at home, so make sure your supplier has a key or code for access.

Monitor your oil tank on a regular basis.

Remote electronic oil level gauges are available which will set off an audible alarm if the oil level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a quarter full. These gauges can be located in the kitchen or perhaps a utility room to warn of any potential problem.

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If you belong to a neighbourhood watch scheme you can discuss this issue of oil theft with your group co-ordinator so that everyone of the scheme can be vigilant.

If the need arises to replace your tank, consider where you position the tank and make more secure. But remember to leave clear access for the delivery man at the fill point and the gauge can be seen.

You MUST never lock or block the tank vent/ breather, as this will cause the tank to split and cause further damage.

Consider fitting CCTV to monitor the tank Security lights can have a very positive effect and make any property a much harder target for the thief. It’s not always necessary to floodlight the area with high power beams, as a more subtle level of lighting may be all that is needed. Low energy “dusk till’ dawn lights positioned close to the tank should, in most cases, provide sufficient light to illuminate any suspicious activity. This type of light can be both effective and inexpensive. High powered lights can be used but care should be taken not to cause any nuisance to neighbours or road users.

FPS Chief Executive, Mark Askew warned that consumers in rural areas may be at greater risk:

“Consumers in isolated locations, especially with tanks sited near the road should be especially vigilant. Rural areas are quieter and less frequently patrolled by police than their towns and cities, so homeowners need to look out for each other. Lookout for suspiciouslooking individuals and vehicles, particularly vans, on both yours and your neighbours’ properties. If you’re particularly concerned, consider relocating your tank to an area that is more secure, remembering to leave it accessible for deliveries. Fitting CCTV and/or security lights to monitor your tank can also go some way to deterring potential thieves.”

If your tank has a lid, fit locks. This may be a legal requirement for some tanks. Your tank installation engineer or fuel delivery company will be able to advise you.

For further advice, contact your supplier, tank installation engineer or the FPS Technical Manager, Tony Brown, on 01565 631313.

Further help can also be found at www.oilsave.org.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Groundcare Kubota RTV400Ci

Kubota RTV vehicles now on offer Tractor and groundcare specialists Kubota UK has introduced a special promotion on its powerful and versatile RTV400ci and RTV500 all terrain utility vehicles. he deal, which runs until the 31st July 2014, means users can now take advantage of a limited time offer to purchase one of Kubota’s compact RTV models. The RTV400ci is now available from a local Kubota dealer delivered on-site from only £6249 (plus VAT) and the RTV500 from £6995 (plus VAT).

The new 4WD Kubota RTV400Ci and RTV500 have been designed to offer a powerful, robust and reliable utility vehicle that provides

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users with exceptional handling and a host of innovative features to maximise control, even in the toughest of conditions.

The RTV400Ci incorporates a high revving 16HP air-cooled, single cylinder petrol engine, along with Kubota’s CVT Plus (Continuously Variable Transmission) with inertial clutch.

The CVT Plus keeps the vehicle’s double cogged, wide belt drive system tight at all times, resulting in minimal slippage, giving drivers greater response and better

durability. To complement this, the machine provides dynamic braking, helping users to maintain total control during ascents and descents with engine assisted deceleration.

Similar in power, the RTV500 features a 15.8HP, two-cylinder petrol engine. However, the RTV500 engine is liquid cooled to ensure reliability and to minimise noise and vibration. This reduces operator fatigue and increases the efficiency of the vehicle. The machine also includes Kubota’s

Kubota RTV500

innovative VHT Plus (variable hydrostatic transmission) system, which further enhances vehicle performance and handling.

Both the RTV400Ci and RTV500 include an electronic fuel injection (EFI) system that not only provides on-demand power and helps optimise acceleration, but also improves the machine’s responsiveness.

To take advantage of this special offer, contact your local Kubota dealer or call 01844 268000 or visit www.kubota.co.uk.

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Groundcare

Best selling hedge trimmer gets better The new STIHL HS 45 cuts fuel consumption and emissions (as well as all types of hedge!)

TIHL is renowned for its quality garden power tools; with their reliable performance and practical design they are easy-touse partners and built to last.

A classic example is the HS 45 hedge trimmer – it is STIHL’s bestselling petrol model and an enduring all-rounder that makes light work of trimming all types of hedge. So how can a model with such proven credentials get any better? Well the innovative brand has fitted its advanced ‘2-MIX’ engine to this popular tool, cutting fuel consumption and emissions to make it kinder on the environment and the pocket too.

Cutting fuel consumption and emissions “There’s nothing that can’t be improved”. From its very beginnings, STIHL’s ethos for innovation and that of its pioneering founder, remains the driving force behind literally hundreds of advances from this respected brand. With over 500 people employed in R&D, STIHL clearly focusses on developing new technologies, new designs and new products that are better for both users and their environment. The STIHL 2-MIX engine now driving the HS 45 hedge trimmer matches those goals. This advanced two-stroke engine technology means fuel is burned more cleanly to cut exhaust emissions by up to 30%; it also means that fuel is used more efficiently, so consumption is reduced. Indeed fuel consumption is cut by an impressive 25% compared to the original HS 45 without the 2-MIX technology.

That’s a tangible benefit for both the environment and user’s pocket.

Best-selling design, performance and handling Ease and comfort of use are key considerations for anyone choosing a hedge trimmer and the HS 45’s proven design and ergonomics remain with the new

S

model, ensuring it will continue to be a very popular choice. The hedge trimmer’s excellent balance and careful handle positioning for example, promote comfortable and manoeuvrable control, whilst a throttle trigger interlock means the user can relax their right hand on the controls setting the speed of the cutters to a consistent ‘go’. A further example of STIHL’s practical design is the specifically curved rear handle which means the blades are raised clear of grass or dirt when the hedge trimmer is started correctly on the ground. That prevents damage to their sharp cutting edge.

Cutting performance is obviously crucial to a hedge trimmer and the HS 45 delivers here too. The double-sided reciprocating blades allow twodirectional cutting and the quality, laser-cut, diamond ground and case-hardened blades retain an impressive edge. Sophisticated blade geometry, an ample 30mm tooth spacing and high stroke rate (3,800/min) mean the HS 45 gives a fine finish to formal clipped specimens as well as tackling the thicker wood of native and mature hedges. Users have long praised this all-rounder’s powerful cut, so they will be even more impressed with the new model as its 2-MIX engine delivers even greater torque, powering the blades effortlessly and reliably without strain.

Built to last STIHL wants its power tools to give long-term satisfaction and sound service life, which is why it sells its power tools through a network of specialist dealers who offer full after-sales service including hedge trimmer blade sharpening, engine servicing and repair. STIHL also ensures any everyday maintenance is quick and easy for the tool owner. Take the greasing of the hedge trimmer’s gearbox for example: the STIHL grease tube literally ‘screws in’ to the filler on the machine so

40 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

Stihl HS 45 Hedge Trimmer

top-ups are mess-free. How’s that for attention to detail and precision build quality.

The new version of the STIHL HS 45 hedge trimmer is arriving in the network of over 550 Approved Dealers from 1 June 2014. The HS 45 is available with either a 45cm (18") or 60cm (24") blade length,

and very cost-effectively priced at £249.00 (45cm model), £259.00 (60cm) inc VAT RRP. For a full specification and details of Approved Dealers nationwide, visit www.stihl.co.uk or Tel. 01276 417610.

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| Feature

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Tyres

Bridgestone makes emphatic entry onto premium agricultural tyre market Bridgestone is making an emphatic entrance into the agricultural market for premium tyres with the launch of its long-awaited VT-TRACTOR tyre. hile all radial agricultural tyres previously manufactured by the Bridgestone Group were sold under the Firestone brand, this newly developed tyre signals a clear declaration of intent on the part of Bridgestone to compete at the highest end of the agricultural tyre segment.

Targeting large operations using today’s advanced, sophisticated but often heavy equipment, Bridgestone’s premium agricultural tyre range enables farmers and contractors to meet the conflicting demands of greater productivity, efficiency and soil protection.

The agricultural tyre market is changing rapidly, challenging tyre manufacturers to come up with solutions for the conflicting demands of greater efficiency today and greater soil protection for increased productivity tomorrow.

Bridgestone is answering those demands with a new range of premium agricultural tyres capable of operating at lower inflation pressures and with a larger tyre footprint. As such, they reduce ground contact pressure and associated soil compaction.

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Preliminary tests conducted in March 2014 by the independent organisation DLG* confirm the superiority of the VT-TRACTOR over other market-leading brands in a number of areas including traction and fuel consumption.

Bridgestone’s product manager Barry Coleman said: “The philosophy behind Bridgestone’s new agricultural tyre range is about striking the perfect balance between farming efficiency and environmental care.

“The ‘Soil Care by Bridgestone’ label is a guarantee of tyres that enable farmers to work faster, more efficiently, more economically and

42 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

above all, more sustainably. That is how we help farmers deliver higher yields and greater productivity both today and tomorrow.”

The VT-TRACTOR tyre, the flagship of the new Bridgestone premium agricultural tyre range, is presented for the first time at the Cereals Show in Duxford.

Preliminary tests conducted in March 2014 by the independent organisation DLG* confirm the superiority of the VT-TRACTOR over other market-leading brands in a number of areas including traction and fuel consumption.** The VT-TRACTOR’s superior traction allows farmers to work faster in the field and cover up to 0.9 hectares more than its competitors over a 10 hour period. Coupled with the tyre’s excellent fuel economy, generating savings of up to 36 litres per 50 hectares vs. benchmark competitors, the VT-TRACTOR guarantees a lower total cost of ownership.

The most important feature of the VTTRACTOR tyre, however, is its very low and very evenly distributed contact pressure.

Internal testing*** also revealed that the VTTRACTOR provides up to 26% larger lug contact area than the same competitor tyres tested, resulting in very low soil compaction and thus greater crop protection.

The VT-TRACTOR has been developed in Bridgestone's European development centre in Rome and will be manufactured at the Puente San Miguel plant in Spain.

While Bridgestone has set its sights on the new and growing high-end agricultural tyre segment and will mainly be made available in sizes covering the largest and most powerful agricultural equipment, Firestone will continue to meet the needs of more than 90% of the tractor market in Europe with a new generation of high-quality agricultural tyres.

This new generation of Firestone agricultural tyres is also on display at Reifen Essen and includes the robust MAXI TRACTION COMBINE for combine harvesters and the advanced PERFORMER ROW CROP for sprayer

applications, a narrow tyre that allows precise steering between crops, thus eliminating damage to crops and roots.

The VT-TRACTOR will be available for purchase in autumn later this year in 28 to 42 inch sizes. * The DLG-Test Center Technology and Farm Inputs – situated in Germany – sets the standard for tested agricultural machinery and equipment and farm inputs and is the leading testing and certification service provider for independent and impartial technology tests in the agricultural sector. ** Tyres tested: sizes IF 600/70 R30 & IF 710/70 R42 (at inflation pressures 1.2 & 1.0 bar) and VF 600/70 R30 & VF 710/70 R42 (at inflation pressures 1.0 & 0.8 bar) under same load conditions. *** Conducted at DLG’s International Crop Production Center in March 2014 with sizes IF 600/70 R30 & IF 710/70 R42 (at inflation pressures 1.2 & 1.0 bar) and VF 600/70 R30 & VF 710/70 R42 (at inflation pressures 1.0 & 0.8 bar) under same load conditions using XSENSOR™ pressure imaging technology.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Royal Welsh

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Buildings

Sheep housing tips from Steadmans manufactures and Shufflebottom range for livestock and farm Shufflebottom solutions to sheep housing problems include fibre cement roofing on steel-frame constructions which are either dedicated to sheep or multi-purposed for farm livestock including sheep.

The efficient, maintenance-saving Shufflebottom eaves beam gutter in close-up …

ibre cement roofing has several advantages for sheep and other farm livestock, says Shufflebottom director Alex Shufflebottom.

“Condensation is minimised because the material is vapour-permeable, but it is also weather-proof. The thermal insulation and acoustic properties are very good, and corrosion resistance is high. Fibre cement is non-combustible and so is highly rated for fire resistance.

“In recent months we have supplied dozens of buildings with roofs of fibre cement, especially to hill regions with winter weather that is harsher than average for the United Kingdom.”

Condensation should be avoided because it is a threat to sheep health. In humid, warm environments bacteria build up, and this raises the risk of respiratory infections.

Correct ventilation is another important point. Air should circulate freely above the sheep, but the sheep themselves should be protected from draughts. In lambing sheds, lambs need consistent temperatures, impossible to achieve if they are in a draughty environment.

In other respects, sheep

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housing needs to provide conditions as similar as possible to the outdoor environments in which each breed developed.

Low future maintenance costs are a big consideration for building buyers, if not for their sheep. While all Shufflebottom buildings are designed for long life, one optional feature worth considering is Shufflebottom’s own design, the Galvanised Eaves Beam Gutter System, which is effective, low maintenance and durable. The eaves beam gutter adds to the strength of the overall building framework, and avoids the need for routine gutter repairs.

An extensive range of products have been supplied by one-stop-shop building products manufacturer Steadmans for state-of-the-art livestock & farm sales yard. arkethill Livestock and Farm Sales Ltd has been operating in Markethill, County Armagh, for over 65 years and also serving County Down, Tyrone and Fermanagh.

The wide range of products manufactured and supplied by Steadmans reflects the wide range of buildings at the market, which includes both office accommodation for the sales and support staff and holding pens for livestock.

Steadmans manufactured and supplied the products to Craigavon-based family firm Lappin Engineering, a steel manufacturer and erecter, which has been operating for 25 years, and was commissioned with the design and build of the job.

Steadmans supplied all the components for the external envelope of the buildings, including over 1200 square metres of AS35 120mm insulated roof panels for the new office

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accommodation. All the flashings, insulated gutters, rooflights, 800 square metres of vented sheeting and nearly 18,000sq ft. of Profile 6 fibre cement sheeting were used over the holding pen area.

Brain Lappin, managing director of Lappin Engineering, said: “We’ve a long and successful history of dealing with Steadmans.

I like dealing with them because it means we are working with both the manufacturer and the supplier in one go. It cuts out the middle man and means there is no extra mark-up.”

Steadmans composite roof panels are ideal for use in the efficient completion of a wide variety of building envelopes, from commercial and warehouse uses to office blocks. The company’s AS35 panels are manufactured in a quality process certified to ISO 9001:2008, using non-ozone depleting technology. This provides designers with an environmentally-responsible

Sheep housing needs to provide conditions as similar as possible to the outdoor environments in which each breed developed.

Suppor Supporting ting Farmers with Innovative Solutions

Double Reservoir Reservoir FFast-Fill ast-Fill W Water ater TTroughs roughs DT30FF

“Lots of our customers for sheep and other livestock buildings specify our eaves beam gutter system,” said Alex Shufflebottom. “When they are repeat customers with several of our buildings, you know the system is working.”

DT90FF

Capacity: Ca pacity: 136L

Easy Valve Valve Access

Capacity: Ca pacity: 400L

Fast-Fill Fast-Fill VValve alve

25mm Drain Off

FB7 - Narro w Interlocking FFootbath ootbath Narrow Capacity: 150L Capacity: Dimensions: 2525 x 690 x 150 mm

t: 01691 659226

44 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

e: info@jfcuk.com

w: www.jfcuk.c www.jfcuk.com om

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| Buildings

supplies extensive product sales yard product, with excellent thermal performance and a predicted service life of 40 years.

Available in a range of thicknesses, from 40mm up to and including 120mm, the panels can be specified to achieve insulation U-values, aiding compliance with the latest L2 regulations. The panels are also Loss Prevention Certification Board approved.

Steadmans is the leading UK manufacturer of building materials

for the agricultural and steel building sectors, specialising in galvanised roofing sections, composite wall and roof sheets, metal cladding, roofing products and fibre cement sheeting. In addition to its headquarters site in Cumbria, the company has facilities in: Uddingston, near Glasgow; Fyvie, Aberdeenshire; and Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Steadmans employs 150 people overall and benefits from being

SHUFFLEBO OTTOM SHUFFLEB SHUFFLEBOTTOM

part of the SIG UK group.

For further information on Steadmans’ full range of products

call 016974 78277, email: info@steadmans.co.uk or visit www.steadmans.co.uk

First British maker of steel-framed farm buildings to receive the European mark

◆ Built for durability and security ◆ Nationwide construction service ◆ Full planning and design service ◆ Bespoke buildings ◆ ISO 9001 Registered company CHAS & RoSPA member ◆ ◆ Grain and crop stores ◆ Factories and industrial units ◆ Kit buildings and Erected buildings ◆ Equestrian buildings ◆ General purpose buildings ◆ Sheep housing ◆ Dairy and pig units

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T : 01269 831831 E : enquiry@shufflebottom.co.uk W : www.shufflebottom.co.uk

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 45

| ATV

New UTE for UK Polaris has announced the introduction of the new Polaris Sportsman UTE in the UK. t is the first All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) designed from the ground up specifically for the UK, Australian and New Zealand markets. To develop the vehicle, Polaris engineers spent time ‘in the field’ in typically challenging landscapes, gathering information from ATV end users and dealers.

The Polaris Sportsman is the biggest selling ATV of all time, from the Sportsman 90 youth product through to the powerful Sportsman 850. January 2014 saw the introduction of the Sportsman 570 Forest and EPS launched at LAMMA, followed by the exciting and innovative Sportsman ACE in the spring. The introduction of the Sportsman UTE, which will be available later in the year, continues the evolution of the range and the Polaris drive to provide a Sportsman to meet every requirement.

“The Polaris Sportsman UTE is perfect for some of the trickier terrain in parts of Scotland, Wales, the North West and South West of England where there are concentrations of hill farming,”

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says Polaris Country Manager, Phil Everett. “One of the key features is a new Polaris 4 wheel Descent Control (4WDC) which was designed specifically for hill work.

The system automatically engages on all four wheels when travelling down slopes for optimum traction and control in all conditions.”

The Sportsman UTE offers the utility and capabilities of the traditional farm pick-up combined with the nimbleness and agility of an ATV. The revolutionary new design starts with the legendary attributes of a Sportsman 570 ATV, such as Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with 24.1 cm of rear travel and On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD). To this Polaris has added a utility-styled tipping rear dump box, characteristic of the hard working farm pick-up, and offers the package at an attractive price point.

Powered by the same 567cc, fuel injected engine as the recently-released Sportsman 570 EFI, the Polaris Sportsman UTE has plenty of power to handle even the toughest of tasks and is packed full of features that not

46 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

only make it a highly-capable work partner but deliver a customer-centric riding experience.

Farmers will appreciate hardworking features such as a whopping 556kg towing capacity, durable 4-ply tires and the 180kg tipping dump box that includes tilttray functionality for ultimate convenience when dumping heavy loads. To ensure the vehicle can be used on a farmer’s entire property, Polaris also has fitted the vehicle with indicators, mirrors and a horn as standard features to save customers the expense of retrofitting these items when required.

For steering ease and control under all conditions, the Sportsman UTE is equipped with Electronic Power Steering (EPS) as a standard feature and Polaris’ legendary On-Demand True All-

Wheel Drive (AWD) system which automatically engages when the rider needs more forward traction and reverts back to two-wheel drive automatically when the AWD is no longer needed A work partner is only as good as his reliability and the Polaris Sportsman UTE is equipped with sealed ball joints which can be greased, sealed driveshaft splines and sealed suspension bushes.

This not only provides increased durability in harsh conditions it also offers easier ongoing maintenance, making the unit the ultimate work vehicle.

The Polaris Sportsman UTE is being offered in Blue Fire and will be available from the end of September 2014. Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polarisbritain.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

New Forest Garden Machinery 316-318 Salisbury Road Totton, Southampton Hampshire SO40 3ND Tel: 023 8087 1764 www.nfgmltd.co.uk

Greenlow ATV Greenlow House Royston Road, Melbourne Hertfordshire SG8 6DG Tel: 01763 260239 www.greenlow.co.uk

Marsh MX 20 Pontmonias Myrthyr Tidfil Mid Glamorgan CF47 8UB Tel: 01685 384625 www.marshmx.co.uk

LRS (Lincs) Ltd Units 9-10 Belton Lane Ind Est Belton Lane, Grantham Lincolnshire NG31 9HN Tel: 01476 565999 www.lrs-uk.com

On A Hill Garage Lynton Garage Ilfracombe Devon EX34 9RQ Tel: 01271 862691 www.onahillgarage.com

XP Bikes 17 Hareleeshill Road Larkhall ML9 2EX Tel: 01698 881 885 www.xpbikes.co.uk

Off Highway Plant Solutions Tel: 01305 858623 Mob: 07899 848569 Email: sales@sphere24.com www.sphere24.com

Quad Bikes R Us Paynes Cottage Waldon House Road Great Tottenham Essex CM9 8PN Tel: 01621 893227 quadbikesrus.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 47

| ATV

Cushman 1600XD-R introduced in the UK ansomes Jacobsen, the Ipswich-based manufacturer of turf maintenance equipment, is the European distributor for Cushman utility vehicles.

In January 2014, they launched the Cushman 1600XD-R, a road homologated 4x4 all-terrain utility vehicle, which features a powerful 22 hp, 1,007cc three-cylinder OHV diesel engine with plenty of grunt to handle tough tasks on rough terrain.

Homologated as a tractor, the vehicle may therefore be used on the road and full road legal lighting is supplied a standard.

Capable of carrying 500kg (1102 lbs) over all types of terrain, its performance is enhanced by an automatic CVT with low and high gear ratios, a userselectable locking rear differential which can be engaged in both twowheel drive and four-wheel drive operation andfour-wheel independent suspension, providing exceptional hauling and towing capacity.

For more information or to arrange for a demonstration please visit the website at www.cushman.co.uk or call 01473 270000.

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TGB quads are industry’s best kept secret With 2 year parts & labour warranty, they are fast becoming the choice for local authorities and commercial operators. t may be a relatively new name on the UK ATV market, but TGB quads are certainly making a lasting impression on those who try them. It is already the choice of many local authorities and commercial operators throughout the UK. Built in Taiwan over the past 30 years, TGB ATVs are setting new

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standards in ATV technology, with extremely high levels of specification and equipment as standard.

Superb ride and build quality ensure that all TGB models offer comfort and peace of mind to all users. All TGB products are fully road legal as standard. Also as standard are front and rear racks, towbar, trailer socket, and 12 volt

48 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

takeoffs. Another advantage is that all models have a two year parts and labour warranty adding further peace of mind to potential customers.

TGB design and manufacture their own power units for all products in their range. 400, 460, 500, and 550cc engines all offer high torque delivery coupled to automatic transmissions, with low range, selectable 4x4, diff locks, disc brakes, power steering is also available on certain models. TGB ATV’s are available nationwide through carefully selected ATV specialists, who can offer expert knowledge on selecting the right machine for you. Along with advice on equipment available for your TGB, such as winches, cargo

cases, etc.

All in all the TGB Blade utility series delivers unrivalled value for money. For more information about these incredible machines, visit www.tgbatv.co.uk or contact your local TGB dealer.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Contact your local participating dealer PMS Greens Ltd Pembrokeshire Tel: 01437 767767 www.pmscars.com

Ryedale Garages Ltd North Yorkshire Tel: 01751 431343 www.ryedalegarages.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

David Cook Motors Lancashire Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Motors

Nissan’s new look Juke: In production Boasting fresh design features and packed with extra technology, Nissan’s new and improved Juke is now in production for Europe.

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lready the runaway leader in B-segment crossovers, with over 540,000 Jukes produced in the UK since 2010, Nissan has invested £20m in its Sunderland plant for production of this

significantly revised model, enabling a series of design enhancements, new engines and technologies and a wide-ranging personalisation programme.

The launch of the new Juke completes the total refresh of the

50 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

plant’s product line-up in just over a year, following the start of production of Nissan’s all-electric LEAF, new Note and new Qashqai in Sunderland, representing over £800m investment and supporting more than 38,000 UK automotive jobs.

It also coincides with a new recruitment drive for maintenance professionals to support a third year of 500,000 output at the plant, with 50 new posts available for experienced technicians to support high volumes across vehicle, powertrain and battery facilities.

Nissan’s Vice President for Manufacturing in the UK, Kevin Fitzpatrick said: “The launch of the new Juke further strengthens Nissan’s command of the crossover market. With a new Qashqai and now a new Juke in production at Sunderland, the crossover has become part of this plant’s DNA. “This significantly revised new Juke is another example of how we never stand still at Nissan, so we are looking for experienced maintenance professionals who can help us build on our recent achievements and support the efficient running of the plant.”

Positions currently being advertised within the maintenance department include electrical and mechanical maintenance technician and supervisor positions. The website www.careersatnissan.co.uk has details of all current vacancies.

The extensive changes on the new Juke include; a new design at the front and rear, a new downsized DIG-T 115 turbocharged engine offering

greater performance, economy and lower emissions, a revised DIG-T 190 engine, advanced equipment including a new audio system, the latest generation NissanConnect drivervehicle interface, Nissan Safety Shield, Nissan's Dynamic Control system, plus a new open-air panoramic glass roof.

Nissan has invested £20m in its Sunderland plant for production of this significantly revised model.

Space in the luggage area has increased by 40 per cent in twowheel drive versions, and the new personalisation programme called ‘Nissan Design Studio', offers a range of new colours, interior and exterior themes.

The new Juke is on sale now in the UK and across all European markets in the coming weeks.

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| ATV

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Motors

Jewson Isuzu D-Max rally team leads the class at half time in debut season The Jewson Isuzu D-Max Rally Team has made a very positive start to its maiden year in the British Cross Country Championship, with driver Jason Sharpe and his nephew Russell, co-pilot, currently leading Class 1B in their competition pick-up. t the mid-point of the season, the duo are ranked fourth in the overall standings after three rounds and with three to go.

Class 1B is open to production vehicles only, mandating a maximum engine capacity of 2,500cc and restricting motorsport enhancements. The DMax is currently placed ahead of several purpose-built rally prototype vehicles in the overall

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“The performances have redefined our class – I’m not sure those running these high power, dedicated race vehicles are entirely happy about a production vehicle nipping at their heels, but that’s testament to the D-Max’s ability.”

standings.

Round one kicked off in Myherin, known as the Welsh ‘Pikes Peak’, on 12 April, with the stages shrouded in dense mist.

The team recorded blistering stage times despite suffering an early impact. Weather conditions improved by day two and the team, having got to grips with the new D-Max, improved its pace. By the end of the day just one other production model finished above the D-Max in the rankings.

Ebbw Vale, South Wales was the location for the second round.

A generally smoother, flatter and faster event, the team started with even greater confidence thanks to a number of technical upgrades.

Despite a difficult first day, the team carried on pushing the DMax to its limits and increased the lead over production-class rivals, eventually taking its maiden victory and finishing ninth in the overall standings.

52 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

Round three saw the team travel to the Forest Estate in Dumfries, Scotland where the rugged terrain and unpredictable local weather presented fresh challenges. The D-Max’s tough underpinnings helped Jason and Russell take a commanding lead on day one. By the end of the second day, the uncle-nephew team had extended its lead, taking a dominant class victory and finishing just 26 seconds behind the overall leader.

Driver Jason Sharpe comments: “The D-Max has demonstrated excellent reliability and durability

throughout the first half of the season. The performances have redefined our class – I’m not sure those running these high-power, dedicated race vehicles are entirely happy about a production vehicle nipping at their heels, but that’s testament to the D-Max’s ability. I’m confident our performance will carry on into the next round in Radnor as we aim to finish the season on a high.”

The next round starts in the Radnor Hills on the Welsh border on 26 July.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Isuzu Salisbury Wiltshire 01722 412222 www.isuzu.co.uk

Hammonds of Halesworth Suffolk 01986 244078 www.hammondgroup.co.uk

Jeffries of Bacton Suffolk 01449 781087 www.jeffriesofbacton.co.uk

York Van Centre North Yorkshire 01904 470170 www.yorkvancentre.co.uk

Maple Garage Ltd East Yorkshire 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk

MRG Chippenham Wiltshire 01249 443300 www.mrgcars.co.uk

Garland Motors Ltd Hampshire 01252 367373 www.garlandskoda.co.uk/isuzu

Mark Weatherhead Ltd Cambridgeshire 01954 210355 www.markweatherhead.co.uk

Warners Motor Group Tewkesbury Gloucestershire 01684 2977575 www.warnerscars.co.uk

Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

Riverside Eastern Ltd North Yorkshire 01723 862242 www.riversidemotors.co.uk

Tallis Amos Group Bibury Gloucestershire 01285 740115 tallisamosgroup.co.uk

Tallis Amos Group Leominster Herefordshire 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Motors

Working with you to bring you more style and better performance.

Rugged it may be, but the Amarok pick-up offers car-like driving and a refined interior with premium styling and functional design. The comfortable interior and convenience of an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox mean it’s as comfortable in town as it is off-road.

With its powerful 2.0-litre TDI engines and the dynamic all-terrain benefits of the intelligent 4MOTION® four-wheeldrive, it will take you anywhere you need to go. Offering maximum payload of 1,145kg and towing capacity of up to 3,200kg, it boasts the widest load area in its class so you can fit in a Euro pallet sideways.

Call us today to book a test drive or pop in to ask for more details.

*

7K H

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Business users only. Plus VAT and initial rental. *Contract hire quotation based on Amarok Startline 2.0 TDI 140PS. Offer based on a 3 + 35 payment profile and 10,000 miles per annum.

Available for Amarok registrations before September 30th, 2014, subject to availability. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. This offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time.

54 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

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Alan Day Van Centre Pinkham Way, North Circular Road, New Southgate, London.

Telephone: 020 8920 4000.

Volkswagen Van Centre (Birmingham) St Stephens Street, Birmingham, West Midlands.

Telephone: 0121 546 0062.

JCT600 Van Centre (Sheffield) Europa Close, Europa Link, Sheffield.

Telephone: 01144 040 023.

Find us on your sat-nav using S9 1XS.

Find us on your sat-nav using N11 3UT.

Find us on your sat-nav using B6 4RG.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/alandaynewsouthgate

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/birmingham

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/jct600sheffield

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre (Bilston)

JCT600 Van Centre (York)

Ennerdale Road, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Telephone: 01743 600 031.

Find us on your sat-nav using SY1 3TL.

Trinity Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton.

Telephone: 01902 546 561.

Find us on your sat-nav using WV14 7EF.

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York.

Telephone: 01904 848 302.

Find us on your sat-nav using YO30 4WW.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/bilston

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600York

Listers (Worcester) Van Centre

Listers (Coventry) Van Centre

157 Bromyard Road, St Johns, Worcester, Worcestershire.

Telephone: 01905 412 269.

347-367 Bedworth Road, Longford, Coventry, West Midlands.

Telephone: 02476 644 747.

JCT600 Van Centre (Hull)

Find us on your sat-nav using WR2 5EA.

Find us on your sat-nav using CV6 6BN.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listersworcester

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listerscoventry

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/greenhous

Saxon Way, Priory Park West, Hessle, Hull, East Yorkshire.

Telephone: 01482 908 520.

Find us on your sat-nav using HU13 9PB. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600Hull

6p per mile (plus VAT) charged for mileage travelled in excess of the contracted mileage. Available on contract hire or finance lease terms. Available to over 18s in the UK only.

Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance, Freepost VWFS.

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 55

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MRG Chippenham Wiltshire Tel: 01249 443300

SG Petch Richmond North Yorkshire Tel: 01748 821185

John Wilkins Cars Gloucestershire 01242 224477

GMD Car Sales County Durham Tel: 0191 384 1925

www.mgrcars.co.uk

www.johnwilkinscars.co.uk

56 | Farming Monthly | July 2014

www.sgpetch.co.uk

www.gmdcarsales.co.uk

Pinkstones Subaru Staffordshire 01782 711611

www.pinkstones.subaru.co.uk

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Ford reveals smart and spacious all-new Edge Ford has revealed the all-new Edge, a high tech smart utility vehicle that will go on sale across Europe for the first time in 2015. he all-new Edge has been designed from the ground up to be visually athletic and to meet high expectations for quality in Europe and around the world.

The Edge also will deliver advanced new technologies as the third chapter in Ford’s SUV expansion plan for Europe – joining the new Kuga medium-sized SUV and the allnew EcoSport small SUV. “We are leveraging our One Ford portfolio to offer a broader range of products to our customers in Europe. This year we have already launched EcoSport, with new Mondeo and Focus on the way,” said Stephen Odell, president, Ford of Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Next year, we will launch all-new Edge, new Mustang for the first time in Europe – as well as our Vignale range.”

First launched in North America in 2007, the Edge helped reshape the industry’s definition of a traditional SUV, establishing the “crossover SUV” segment. Today, Edge is consistently a top-selling vehicle in the segment in North America – achieving record sales in 2013 – and is offered for sale in select markets in South America, Russia and eastern Asia, including China.

With the all-new Edge, Ford in Europe will enter a new segment, offering customers a refined, technologically advanced and spacious SUV. Featuring a four-door, five-seat configuration and Ford’s intrinsic fun-to-drive DNA, all-new Edge will first go on sale in North America early next year, followed by Europe, South America and Asia Pacific later in 2015.

“All-new Edge will deliver more room for passengers than large competitor SUVs that cost considerably more. The styling and suite of comfort, convenience and safety technologies in Edge rival the premium offerings in Europe.” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe.

Advanced technology The all-new Edge will feature Adaptive Steering, which will make it easier to manoeuvre and more fun to drive, and

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introduces to Europe Active Noise Cancellation technology and Front Split View Camera.

Adaptive Steering continually changes the steering ratio with vehicle speed, optimising the steering response in all conditions. At lower speeds, such as when pulling into a parking space or manoeuvring in tight quarters, the new system makes the vehicle more agile and easier to turn. At highway speeds, it enables Edge to react more smoothly and precisely to driver input.

Ford’s Active Noise Cancellation system employs three microphones in the cabin and generates opposing sound waves directed through the audio system that enhance the overall engine sound and cabin ambiance.

Front Split View Camera technology makes negotiating difficult junctions or parking spaces with restricted visibility easier through the use of a 180-degree camera system installed at the front of the vehicle. The Edge also features specially designed ducts along the side of the vehicle that create an “air curtain”, improving aerodynamics at speed.

Dynamic design, quality and handling Material and visual quality were a focal point during development. Throughout the vehicle, the design has been executed in a way that reduces visual cut lines. The team worked on the smallest of details, such as how the front doors meet the instrument panel, simplifying the merging points and reducing potential alignment issues.

All-new Edge features a charismatic exterior design, with the prominent chrome grille, the thin and chiselled front LED headlamps, and the three-dimensional blade shape rear LED tail lamps. The pronounced wheel openings house 20-inch alloy wheels.

A sophisticated body structure and suspension system absorbs and masks road imperfections and noise without compromising handling, helping to deliver a driving experience that fully meets the expectations of European consumers.Integral-link, independent rear suspension ensures a dynamic and engaging ride. High-strength steels contribute to a solid body structure that helps deliver more

responsive handling. Interior refinement also has been optimised through the use of acoustic glass, and the Edge utilises tyres that have been specially selected for reduced road noise.

In Europe, Ford will offer for Edge two versions of Ford’s 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine: • A 180 PS version delivering 400 Nm of torque and projected 149 g/km CO2, with 6speed manual transmission • A 210 PS version delivering 450 Nm of torque and projected 159 g/km CO2, with 6speed PowerShift automatic and paddle-shift controls “All-new Edge will deliver more room for passengers than large competitor SUVs that cost considerably more. The styling and suite of comfort, convenience and safety technologies in Edge rival the premium offerings in Europe.”

Driving Growth The all-new Edge will ensure Ford offers a complete range of vehicles to meet increasing consumer demand within the fastest growing vehicle segment.

According to Ford data, the European utility segment grew to 21 per cent from 10 per cent between 2008 and 2013. Sales of the new Kuga SUV, launched in 2012, increased by 38 per cent year-over-year for the first five months of 2014 and Ford has already taken more than 16,000 orders for the all-new EcoSport SUV that is in dealerships now.

“We are delivering a truly technologically advanced SUV that can meet and exceed expectations in this growing segment, and complement new Kuga and all-new EcoSport to offer a complete SUV range,” de Waard said, “Over the past few years we have seen a dramatic shift among customers from cars to SUVs around the world. The time is right for a larger, more upscale SUV at the top of our European line-up.”

July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 57

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The all-new Jeep Cherokee According to Jeep, there are no compromises - it’s the complete car. he all new Jeep Cherokee is where legendary off-road capability meets premium driving dynamics in a stylish, high quality and efficient package.

When it goes on sale here this month (June 2014), the new Cherokee will introduce smart new technology to the mid-size SUV segment, instantly becoming one of the most user-friendly cars in its class.

Initially the new Cherokee will be available with a choice of 140 and 170hp 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines. The more powerful engine is linked to a nine-speed automatic gearbox, a first for the mid-size SUV (Jeep classification 4.5-4.8m) class. This ground-breaking transmission is also available to all four trim levels: Longitude, Longitude+, Limited and Trailhawk. Three of the four – Longitude, Longitude+ and Limited – can be specified with either diesel engine and in two or four-wheel drive. The more off-road focused Trailhawk model comes only with a 3.2-litre petrol engine and only automatic transmission. It will be available by special order only from the end of the year.

Thanks to the light-weight materials used

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and the efficiency of the 2.0-litre MultiJet II engine, the new Cherokee becomes one of the cleanest cars in its class. The front-wheel drive 140hp version returns 53.3mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 139g/km of CO2. Yet performance is hardly hampered: the 170hp automatic 4x4 will do 0-60mph in a lively 10.3 seconds.

As the Cherokee wears the legendary Jeep badge it will be one of the most capable cars around, no matter what surface it’s on. New suspension combines with a very rigid bodyshell to make it comfortable, refined and enjoyable to drive on the road. The fuel-efficient Jeep Active Drive I four-wheel drive system automatically switches between front and allwheel drive when required. And Jeep’s SelecTerrain system offers up to five different fourwheel drive modes to ensure drivers employ the most suitable settings for the prevailing conditions.

Taking cues from its Grand Cherokee stablemate, the new Cherokee has a stylish, well-equipped interior that exudes premium craftsmanship. It’s also comfortable and versatile with figure-hugging front seats and in the back, seats that fold and recline as well as sliding backwards and forwards to maximise either leg room or boot space.

All new Cherokees are packed with technology. Each model features a Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) screen in the instrument cluster available in either monochrome or colour. On the centre console there’s a choice between a 5-inch colour touch-screen for the Uconnect media system and, in a first for this class, an

8.4-inch display. Even the entry-level Longitude model comes with cruise control, parking sensors and dual-zone air-conditioning as standard. And some neat options can be specified. These include the full-length CommandView sun roof and a charging pad that can replenish some smart phones without the need to plug them in.

As the Cherokee wears the legendary Jeep badge it will be one of the most capable cars around, no matter what surface it’s on.

The Cherokee is one of the safest cars on the road: it has already been awarded five stars

by EuroNCAP and has more than 70 available safety features. These include systems such as Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation which employs radar to help the driver avoid, or limit the effects of, any impact.

Meanwhile, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist finds parking spaces that will accommodate the Cherokee, then helps the driver reverse into them by controlling the manoeuvre.

The result is a car that combines the traditional Jeep values of simplicity and versatility with style, efficiency and technology to create a no-compromise all-rounder capable of doing the famous seven-slotted grille justice.

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

DISCOVERY

Striking features bring heightened level of luxury to the Land Rover Discovery 2015 Model Year adds new technology and feature content to the Discovery. and Rover continues to celebrate 25 years of Discovery with new additions to the 2015 Model Year offering.

Customers will have the option to add striking features from the XXV Special Edition anniversary model as well as gaining extra features as standard with the new SE and SE Tech additions to the derivative line up. In-car technologies also receive a boost with the introduction of Land Rover InControlTM Apps.

These enhancements are available to order on the Discovery now with customer deliveries starting from September in the UK. “To mark 25 years of Discovery, Land Rover offered more premium luxury in the form of the XXV Special Edition. Striking attributes from this anniversary derivative are now being made available across the range for our customers to bring that level of heightened luxury into their Discovery of choice,” said Phil Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group Marketing Director.

“InControl Apps adds another dimension to the Discovery’s attributes and another meaning to work-life balance by enabling safe and efficient access to essential smartphone content and in-car apps from the vehicle’s touchscreen,” he added.

Introduction of new models & features At 15 Model Year, SE becomes the new entry point to the Discovery range. With this change, customers receive additional features as

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standard compared to the previous entry point GS specification. These include; cruise control, front fog lights, automatic headlamps and wipers, headlamp power wash, auto dimming rear view mirror and interior foot well and door puddle lamps.

SE Tech replaces the previous XS specification and adds Xenon headlights with LED signature as standard whilst HSE variants now feature 20” alloy wheels as standard rather than the previous 19”. Customers can also bring that added touch of luxury to their Discovery of choice with the option of adding the Grand Black Lacquer wood and leatherwrapped steering wheel from the XXV Special Edition anniversary model.

Changes to the exterior colour palette will see three new colours introduced; Aruba, Kaikora Stone and Montalcino Red replace Luxor, Ipanema Sand and Nara Bronze.

Cutting edge in-car connectivity Land Rover InControlTM Apps is introduced as a customer option to complement the Discovery’s existing infotainment system and provide the ultimate for in-car connectivity. It brings the convenience, familiarity and original look and feel of compatible smartphone apps into the owner’s vehicle, which are displayed and controlled from the vehicle’s touchscreen.

This technology has been developed with some of the world’s leading smartphone app developers and is compatible with the latest

Apple and Android smartphones. Optimised for in-car use, Land Rover InControlTM Apps offers services such as satellite-navigation, media streaming, internet radio and location services, whilst also providing easy access to the connected smartphone’s contacts, calendar and music library.

Compatible apps include Stitcher, Glympse, Sygic, Parkopedia, Hotelseeker, Cityseeker, Eventseeker, News on Board and MobileDay, the latter enabling one-touch access to voice conference calls without the need to dial a number. The range of apps is being continually expanded, with new content available every time the apps update.

These enhancements are available to order on the Discovery now with customer deliveries starting from September in the UK. The Discovery retains its position as the ultimate all-purpose vehicle with over 1,100,000 retail sales and 219 international awards since its launch in 1989, commending both its breadth of capability and versatility attributes. A true 7-seater with stadium seating and the capacity to carry gear in a variety of configurations, the Land Rover Discovery adapts to suit any occasion and any terrain with ease.

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Discover with confidence Call us today to book a test drive.

Discovery’s capability off-road is enhanced by technologies like Gradient Acceleration Control, which helps make steep descents feel more assured.

Armstong Massey - York 01937 531531 armstrongmassey.landrover.co.uk

Ripon Landrover - North Yorkshire 01765 646464 ripon.landrover.co.uk

Kentdale - Kendal 08433 833530 kentdale.landrover.co.uk

Guy Salmon - Maidstone 01622 795666 guysalmon.maidstone.landrover.co.uk

Hunters - Southampton 02380 215800 hunters.southampton.landrover.co.uk

Matford - Exeter 01392 825825 matford.exeter.landrover.co.uk

Guy Salmon - Knutsford 01565 632525 guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

Rocar Moores - Huddersfield 01484 516016 rocarmoores.landrover.co.uk

Barretts - Ashford 01233 506070 barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

Hunters - Norwich 01603 944836 hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

Barretts - Canterbury 01227 475475 barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

Copley - Halifax 01422 363340 copley.landrover.co.uk

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July 2014 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

Mitsubishi sales growth Figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that the Mitsubishi brand achieved a remarkable 57% year-on-year increase in passenger car sales during May. itsubishi’s significant sales growth started in 2013, with passenger car registrations for the year ending up 38% and Mitsubishi being crowned as the UK’s fastest growing mainstream car manufacturer.

The sales growth signifies an increase of vehicle sales across the Mitsubishi range with an outstanding performance on Shogun, where sales increased by over 200% on last May. A recent price reduction of £5,000 means that a LWB Shogun is now available to buy from £28,599, representing excellent value for money for an authentic, practical, full size SUV. The month of May saw the Outlander,

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Mitsubishi's highly regarded and versatile SUV, sales increase substantially by over 150%.

Interest in the diesel variant has spiked since the exciting launch of the game-changing plugin hybrid alternative in April this year.

Mitsubishi’s versatile crossover, the ASX, continues to be a popular choice with customers. With a wheelbase to match the Outlander, the ASX bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its rugged off-roaders.

Mitsubishi Motors UK Managing Director, Lance Bradley said: “For Mitsubishi, 2014 is proving to be another year of excellent sales growth. New products and increased marketing

A recent price reduction of £5,000 means that a LWB Shogun is now available to buy from £28,599, representing excellent value for money for an authentic, practical, full size SUV. spend mean that we expect to grow again significantly this year.

Our most important new product is the allnew Outlander PHEV, a game-changing 4x4 SUV which emits only 44g/km CO2 and can travel 32 miles using just electricity.”

Renault on menu at Big Feastival Renault UK has been confirmed as this year’s official automotive sponsor at Jamie Oliver and Alex James’ Big Feastival, a celebration of music, food and fun for all the family from 29th to 31st August this year. hroughout the three-day live extravaganza, held on Alex James’ farm in The Cotswolds, Renault will be involved right in the thick of things, adding to the festivities and relaxation for those of all ages.

Big Feastival is the latest in a series of recent major sponsorship deals for Renault, on the trail to prove it’s well and truly “back”. Its Group sales are already a healthy 73% higher year-to-date than 2013, with its Captur crossover sitting second in the fast-growing BSUV class and the iconic Clio in the top six superminis.

Each of its recent models are based around the idea of the ‘life flower', taking in every aspect of someone’s journey, from love, starting a family, right through to work and reaching a state of enlightenment and wisdom.

So, as a result, reflecting Renault’s ‘Life Designed’ strategy the main stand has been created in the shape of a flower, where each petal represents a different life stage. The

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human centric brand will be focusing specifically on four of its six ‘petals’ namely, Love, Explore, Play and Wisdom.

The first, ‘love’, is represented by the Clio, one of Renault’s most iconic cars in terms of design and style. The Clio area on the stand will transport visitors to Paris, the city of love, and give weary showgoers somewhere to retreat to after taking in the sights of the busy festival. The second, depicting ‘Explore’, comes in the form of its new Captur compact crossover. Designed for young and active families, the Renault Captur section of the stand will have some adventurous and engaging activities, such as a 24-foot climbing wall and a children’s sandpit. Representing ‘wisdom’ is the beautifully designed and refreshingly pure 100% electric Renault ZOE, Renault’s groundbreaking supermini, which can be charged to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.

As the pinnacle of its Zero Emission* range, the ZOE area on the stand will feature both form and function, demonstrating that the striking

car is as beautiful as it is useful. Finally, fresh from its first UK appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed just a few weeks before, the New Twingo city car, which epitomises Renault’s playful, colourful personality, will also be taking a bow.

So that Jamie Oliver and Alex James can get around the festival in an environmentallyfriendly fashion, Renault will also be supplying two of its fun and futuristic electric two-seat Twizys for the weekend.

Mihai Bordeanu, Marketing Director at Renault UK, commented: “We’re delighted to be the Official Automotive Sponsor of 2014 Big Festival. The fit between the fun, family-oriented event which Jamie and Alex have created and our own brand, with its human-centric roots and cars “designed for life” is a good one.

More information on Renault UK’s involvement with Big Feastival, as well as the event itself, is available at http://www.jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival/

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