November 2015 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

November 2015

Inside this issue...

Slurry

| Pumping, mixing, separating...

Arable

| Intelligent plant nutrition for higher yields

Grain EU Commission revises grain yields upwards |

News

Falling farm incomes...and more to come |

Biosecurity

| More than just disinfectant

Fencing

| The science of 2Life - making fencing last

Also Inside: Buildings | Security | Machinery | Tyres | Biosecurity | Pests | ATV | Motors

Contents

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56

November 2015

56 25

FMN

Features

FMN

Regulars

14 16 18 20 24 28 36 38 52

Animal Health

06 12 33 44 56 59

News

Fluke in cattle , sheep health

Biosecurity More than disinfectant...

Finance Cultivating success

Grain EU Commission revises grain yields upwards

Arable BP2015, Intelligent plant nutrition & more

Muck & Slurry Pumping, mixing, separating...

Buildings

Catch up on the news that matters

On Topic Mars Food | Global Rice Sustainability Standard

Energy Latest energy and renewables news

Machinery Midlands Machinery Show & other news

ATV Honda, Kawasaki, Can-Am, Polaris...news

Motors Latest motors news plus Suzuki Vitara review

NEXT MONTH

Show preview and news

LAMMA preview

Fencing Easy fence planning, 2Life EstateWire 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

Tyres Latest tyre news

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 2015.

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 Julie Smith j.smith@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Laura Green l.green@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Phil Barry p.barry@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

Ambitious research identifies shrunken GHG footprint of UK arable products Findings show lower nitrous oxide emissions from UK agriculture than previously thought. he results of a major UK research project on ‘Minimising Nitrous Oxide (MIN-NO) have been announced today showing emissions due to nitrogen fertiliser use on UK arable land, to be less than half the level previously estimated.

Roger Sylvester-Bradley, MINNO Project Lead and Head of Crop Performance, ADAS UK, said: “This research is the most ambitious to date in providing a comprehensive national assessment of nitrous oxide emissions in actual farming conditions, and has significantly improved scientific understanding in this important area”.

The MIN-NO research was conducted over a 5 year period with a consortium of 23 government, academic, farming and commercial partners with interests in the future sustainability of the food, feed and fuel supply chain.

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The research concluded: • A predicted decrease in emissions from UK agriculture of almost 10% than previously thought • A greenhouse gas intensity per tonne of UK harvested wheat (which recognises the recent emissions reductions by fertiliser producers,) of 20% less than previously estimated.

• Reduced intensities for harvested rapeseed and sugar beet.

The project also confirmed that sourcing of nitrogen fertilisers from production facilities which are modified to abate nitrous oxide makes a substantial reduction in the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) footprint of the final marketed product whether it be chicken, cooking oil, whisky or a biofuel product. Choosing fertilisers with the lowest carbon footprint leads to a reduction in the GHG footprint. For example, bread can be reduced by 7%, bioethanol from wheat by 15% and biodiesel from oilseed rape by 16%.

06 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

Welcoming the findings, AIC’s Chief Executive David Caffall said: “It is pleasing to see massive investment by the supply industry is also having potential added value in the market place.”

However, prospects for mitigating nitrous oxide associated with arable cropping are less than was thought previously. Farmers already using abated nitrogen fertilisers and following good practice can do little more than to continue to focus on fine-tuning their overall nutrient management for optimum efficiency.

The potential for adding value from investment in the research was highlighted by Richard Laverick, Chief Technical Officer for AHDB. ”The project has provided our industry with a vital and far more accurate understanding of the behaviour of nitrous oxide emissions in arable agriculture. It will help inform all involved in producing for the food, feed and biofuel supply chains. The findings are significant and will make a

major difference to the UK’s ability to meet sustainability criteria for a range of supply chains.”

The MIN-NO findings are especially pertinent to the biofuel industry. Clare Wenner, the Head of Renewable Transport at the Renewable Energy Association said, ”This extensive research shows that the greenhouse gas reductions from using UK-grown feed wheat and oil seed rape to produce renewable fuel are particularly relevant. The production of bioethanol and biodiesel from these crops also yields a valuable high protein animal feed which adds to the overall environmental benefits of UK renewable fuels.”

Ultimately MIN-NO’s work is good news and means that the proportion of the UK’s emissions attributed to agricultural production will decrease relative to other sectors of the economy.

The findings: http://cereals.ahdb.org.uk/publi cations/2015/october/29/minimisin g-nitrous-oxide-intensities-ofarable-crop-products-(minno).aspx will now be used by consortium members to inform both governments and industry of the progress being made towards meeting the UK’s GHG reduction targets.

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| News

Westbury Dairy butters up the Women’s Institute The home of Anchor Butter has been surprised and delighted at the level of response from a visit of Wiltshire Federation of Women’s Institutes to the Westbury Dairy. ver 180 members expressed an interest in visiting the dairy, requiring Butter Production Manager, George Nicholls to add an extra three visits in 2015 with more planned for 2016!

During the 100th anniversary year of the WI, Arla’s Westbury Dairy has opened its doors to interested members of Wiltshire

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Federation to share with them its pride in one of the UK’s largest butter factories and the home of Anchor Butter.

George Nicholls, Butter Production Manager for Westbury Dairies said: “We were overwhelmed with the response when 180 members expressed an interest. We didn’t want to let anyone down so extended it to five events across September, October and

November, with more to follow in 2016. The first two events have been a great success - the visitors got to tour the facility and received a short presentation and everyone left with some Anchor butter for their Victoria sponges! Westbury Dairies has an important role in the local community and the response from the ladies was very positive.

They were impressed by our environmental and welfare standards as well as the fact that Arla Foods is farmer-owned and Anchor is made in their county.”

Shauna Bodman, Chairman of Workshops Committee for the National Federation of Women's Institutes, said: "The Wiltshire Federation of Women's Institutes recently organised a visit to Westbury Dairies to see the various

processes milk goes through once it has been received from the farm.

So keen were the ladies from Wiltshire to attend, numerous visits have been organised this year, with more to come in the New Year! George warmly welcomed our members and each visit has been extremely informative giving an insight into how the dairy processes milk from the local farming community into butter and milk powder. Members commented on how interesting they found it and were impressed that the dairy, which is owned by a Farming Cooperative, ensures fair pricing and support to Wiltshire farmers; this is a continuing WI campaign supporting rural communities and especially that of farming and milk production."

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

EU joking or what?

Tens of thousands of Farmers across the UK are being forced to put up EU propaganda & to pay for the privilege. nder new guidance put out by the Government any farmer who receives more than £7,200 in Agricultural subsidies from the EU will have to pay to put up posters advertising this.

UKIP Agricultural spokesman, Stuart Agnew MEP said: "It is outrageous that farmers are obliged to get involved in the EU

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propaganda machine when this money came from the British taxpayer.

“The EU merely threw away half of what the British tax payer gave them and then graciously deigned to give the other half back to British farmer, only if they erect the EU gratitude plaques.

“I don’t think this is a coincidence that we are going to see more EU gratitude plaques erected in fields during the EU referendum campaign.”

08 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

Falling farm incomes & there’s more to come A significant drop in commodity prices is a major factor contributing to falling farm incomes, the NFU has said. ecent data from Defra, which focuses on income from March 2014 to February 2015, shows a decline in the profitability of almost all farming sectors and emphasises the volatility challenges for farm businesses.

Crucially, the NFU points out that these figures only paint part of the picture. They do not reflect the more recent shifts in commodity prices which have hit our members hard since February, as pressure on farmgate prices intensified through 2015. This has been seen most notably in the dramatic downturn in the fortune of the UK’s dairy industry.

NFU Deputy President Minette Batters said: “While the short term focus is on income and cash flow, Government must prioritise working with the NFU and its partners throughout the food chain ensuring that we a achieve a better functioning supply chain, only then will farmers have the confidence to invest in the future and build resilience.

“The opportunities for UK farming are clear – in the longer term global and domestic demand will increase. But for British farmers to benefit, we need the right policy and fiscal environment across government which encourages the sector to increase efficiency, develop and embrace technological advances, and take a long-term balanced view to investment.

“It's critical that others in the food chain now recognise the

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financial pressures that farmers, as suppliers of raw materials, are facing. There are some positive initiatives out there. More widely the supply chain can help by working to put in place the mechanisms that help farmers manage volatility.

“During these challenging times, it is crucial that there are no delays to CAP payments, which would only compound cash flow concerns. This includes ensuring BPS is paid in a timely manner early in the payment window and also making pillar 2 payments as early as possible. The NFU is disappointed that the options of paying enhanced rates for the initial pillar 2 agri-environment payment this autumn or allowing up to 70% of the BPS payment to be made from 16 October, as allowed by the European Commission, were not implemented.”

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| News

2nd Midlands Machinery show set to be bigger and better than last year The Midlands Machinery show is just weeks away and it’s set to be bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event, with a host of new product launches and technical seminars. rganised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, the show is a platform for small to medium-sized agricultural businesses to show their diverse range of machinery and innovation to those who work and have an interest in agriculture.

Taking place on 25 and 26 November 2015, the Midlands Machinery Show is well known as a rapidly growing event for visitors and traders to brush shoulders with some of the key innovators in industry.

Agriculture leaders FarmGEM, Zetor UK and Horsch have all signed up to be in attendance, alongside crop production specialists Hutchinsons and JRH Water Management, who will be discussing key topics at the Streets Seminar Theatre during the two-day event.

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George Taylor, show manager, said: “This year is the second year we have run the show and we are looking forward to welcoming even more attendees than last year.

“In its first year, we had a tremendous amount of positive feedback from exhibitors and we pride ourselves on our ability to attract the big name brands in the agricultural industry while also maintaining a sense of intimacy.

“Both buyers and manufacturers benefit from the layout of the show as it allows them to have the space and time to talk directly to their visitors who in turn focus on doing business with the dealers.

“We expect thousands of visitors to the event and over 200 traders so it’s sure to not be one to miss.”

More than 5,000 people are expected to visit the show this year and visitors will be able to choose from a programme of technical

seminars which will see industry experts discuss relevant issues.

Awards for the best trade stands will also be taking place including Best Agricultural Stand, Best Overall Stand and Best Non Machinery Stand.

Visitor entry and parking is free.

For more trade information and to book trade space please email info@midlandsmachineryshow.com

or visit our website www.midlandsmachineryshow.com

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 09

| News

Downing Street Christmas tree crown announced They travelled from the furthest corners of the UK and have spent a decade nurturing their perfect specimen – and today Britain’s best Christmas Tree growers went head to head in their national competition. ut of more than 100 entrants, British Christmas Tree Growers’ Association member Andrew Ingram was declared the winner of the Champion Tree category and now has the honour of selecting a tree for Downing Street this year.

Andrew Ingram, from Christmas Tree Common in Oxfordshire, presented an impressive Lasiocarpa tree (a type of fir) at the peer-judged event, which was held today at Hole Park in Kent. It is the third time he has scooped the top prize.

Also emerging victorious and facing a trip to the Prime Minister’s residence this festive season is Hans Alexander, from Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm in Guildford. He claimed a double win and was judged to have the Champion Wreath as well as the runner up position in the Champion Tree category.

Both growers will now visit Downing Street in the first week of December, where Andrew’s choice of 20ft tree will be positioned at the steps of Number 10, while the wreath will hang at the door throughout Christmas, and Hans’s selection of tree will stand within the Pillared Room.

The contest is now in its 17th year and is entirely managed by the British Christmas Tree Growers Association. It typically sees contenders from 18 to 80 coming together to showcase their trees and be judged by fellow

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association members.

Each farmer, who will have spent around 10 years nurturing the tree to full ‘competition’ height, is able to enter categories including Best Nordman, Best Other Fir, Best Pine, Best Norway Spruce, Best Other Spruce, Best Container Grown, and Best Festive Wreath.

Finalists were permitted to submit only one tree into each category, and trees entered must be commercially cultivated and be 1.8 metres ( +/- 400mms) high from base to tip. Each is judged for foliage, colour, shape and marketability.

Andrew said: “We are delighted to have won for a third time. I’m also enormously pleased for Gary Walford, who is our manager and who selected the tree for the event. He’s the handson person and deserves the praise.”

Hans, who won with a Douglas Fir, said: “I am really thrilled. We swept the board on wreaths by winning the dressed and undressed category, and are really pleased that it was a Douglas Fir which won for the tree.

“We find the Douglas Fir goes down particularly well with our American customers at our Christmas Tree Farm as that’s a more common choice back in the States. I’m glad we chose to enter it today.”

Harry Brightwell, secretary of the British Christmas Tree Growers’ Association, said: “We’ve seen some exceptional entries in both the tree and wreath categories this year, so judging was certainly no easy task.

“Every one of our members puts a great deal of commitment into a year-round process of farming Christmas trees, so this event is a valuable opportunity for us to applaud their efforts and enable them to meet with their peers and compare notes on growing practices and the like.”

He added: “It’s very easy for someone unfamiliar with the world of Christmas tree growing to assume that they take relatively little time to reach full height, but they are easily a decade in the making.

“Our message this year to all festive lovers is to make choosing a tree a special event for the household – and to ‘Buy Real, Buy British’.”

Gary Walford with Winning Tree

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| News

Show success results in Lyon’s family heading to East of England Smithfield festival Following recent show successes around the UK, the Lyon family, who farm near Bourne in Lincolnshire, are excited to be heading to the 2015 East of England Smithfield Festival in Peterborough on Thursday 26 – Friday 27 November, where they hope to add to their growing trophy cabinet. he family are a shining example of what hard work and determination can achieve.

Primarily landscape gardeners, this family delved into the cattle industry only 12 years ago with just two heifers and by 2012 they won the baby beef champion at Smithfield and in 2013 they were winning at most major events including the taking the champion at the Royal Welsh Show.

From the outset, the aim of their cattle enterprise was always to be able to breed their own cattle that would be good enough for the show-ring. Much emphasis has been made on new genetics in order to achieve this. They are now into the second generation of their own breeding heifers and use Belgian Blue and

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Limousin crosses, to produce a commercial cross.

“We want to produce the best and showing cattle gives us, and other beef farmers, the opportunity to promote the top end of the beef industry,” explains Jonny Lyon. “It also means, if successful, that we are able to secure a premium at market.

“The show attendance also gives us the opportunity to learn from industry and other farmers and keep up to date with the latest developments,“ Jonny adds. “ Stocktech at this year’s Smithfield Festival promises to provide a whole range of new information. This is invaluable for our business growth and future profitability.

The success of the Lyon’s family is no

surprise to East of England Agricultural Society show director, William Haire, who is looking forward to seeing the stock at this East of England Smithfield Festival in November.

“The Lyon family is incredibly focussed. They work hard at being informed and open to new developments in beef management. Their attention to detail, and focus on the genetics, the nutrition, the health and the general welfare of the animals, is paramount to their success.

“They have a great eye for high quality animals and understand the importance of conformation. And it is because of this, they have achieved such outstanding results,” concludes William.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 11

| On Topic

Mars Food announces first Global Rice Sustainability Standard in partnership with the Sustainable Rice Platform

About Mars Food Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Mars Food portfolio includes the following brands: UNCLE BEN’S®, DOLMIO®, SEEDS OF CHANGE®, MasterFoods®, SUZI WAN®, EBLY®, ROYCO®, KAN TONG® and RARIS®. In 2013, global sales were approximately $2 billion.

Mars Food is a segment of Mars, Incorporated.

Mars Food Commits to 100 Percent Sustainably Sourced Rice by 2020. ars Food, in partnership with the Sustainable Rice Platform, (SRP), a global alliance of agricultural research institutions, agri-food businesses, public sector and civil society organizations convened by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), has announced the first global standard for sustainable rice at the 5th Annual Plenary Meeting and Assembly.

As the leading corporation with the SRP and owner of the world’s largest rice brand, UNCLE BEN’S®, Mars Food played a pivotal role in developing the standard. Mars Food also announced its commitment to sustainably source 100 percent of its rice by 2020 using the SRP standard.

“Caring for our environment as well as our entire supply chain from end-to-end is more than usual corporate responsibility. It’s an imperative for Mars

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Food,” said Fiona Dawson, President of Mars Food.

“Through the global standard, we hope to create benefits for all involved from the farmers to our consumers. The benefit for us is that is that we are ensuring premium quality rice, whilst also ensuring a higher income for farmers, and a better environment for current and future generations. It is a truly mutual solution.”

The SRP standard consists of a set of criteria for sustainable rice cultivation that can be used across the globe to reduce the environmental footprint of rice production and improve the lives of rice farmers. The standard consists of 46 requirements organized under eight broad topics, including productivity, food safety, worker health, labor rights, and biodiversity. Rice plays a critical role in global food security, providing livelihoods for over 140 million smallholder farmers in developing countries and is a staple food for nearly half of the world’s seven billion people.

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| On Topic

Mars Food will use the standard as a benchmark against which to assess its rice supply chains – identifying where there are gaps and developing strategies to improve sustainability. Mars Food has already begun piloting implementation of the standard with rice farmers in two countries – Pakistan and India. A controlled farming program in Pakistan, in partnership with Rice Partners, LTD, IRRI and Bayer CropScience, has grown from 31 smallholder farmers in 2011 to 400 farmers in 2015 who produce Basmati rice grown with the correct application of chemicals and harvested with

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practices to improve food safety and water quality. In India, Mars is embedding new learnings while also piloting the SRP standard.

The standard complements and builds upon the company’s Purpose – Better Food Today.

A Better World Tomorrow – and the Mars Mutuality Principle, which demonstrate the company’s commitment to helping rice farmers improve yields while reducing water use and greenhouse gas emissions and improving socioeconomic conditions in the communities where high-quality rice is grown.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Animal Health

Vets advise farmers to investigate ill-thrift in ewes now Almost a quarter of ewes tested for Maedi Visna (MV) by SAC Consulting Veterinary Services are carrying the disease. This could mean that large numbers of livestock are at threat of ill-thrift, failing to grow at a healthy rate, this winter. he tests were carried out on flocks throughout England, although vets are warning that the disease is also present in Scotland and Wales. Most flocks tested were cross-breeds and mules and the owners reported ewes being thin, breathless and sometimes lame. The ewe mortality rates were increased and lambing percentages and growth rates reduced.

Maedi Visna is a chronic viral disease which was introduced into the UK through imported sheep. It has since spread, especially in commercial flocks. The condition is highly contagious, difficult to diagnose and is fatal.

As flock owners and shepherds are

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preparing their flocks for mating in the weeks ahead, SAC Consulting is urging them to investigate any cases of ill-thrift in ewes with their veterinary surgeon.

“Ewes should be in good condition at tupping this year given the good weather we have seen this autumn” says Brian Hosie, Head of SAC Consulting Veterinary Services. “This makes it all the more important farmers and crofters quickly work out why some ewes may not be performing”.

Farmers worried about their flock should condition score their ewes and manage them accordingly; this will allow them to identify ewes which are not improving. There are many diseases other than MV that can cause ill-thrift

Abattoirs condemn one fifth of all cattle livers for fluke Liver fluke continues to cause losses in productivity and profitability in the national beef herd, with one fifth of cattle livers condemned at the abattoir in 2014. These losses come despite clear evidence of the parasite’s negative effect on feed conversion and growth rates, says the parasitology expert, Merial Animal Health. igures released by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) show that more than one in five (22 per cent1) British cattle sent for slaughter at abattoirs in 2014 have had their livers condemned as a result of liver fluke. These figures were higher in Scotland and Wales with over one in four (around 27 per cent¹) for both nations.

Callum Blair, Veterinary Advisor for Merial Animal Health says: “The FSA’s 2014 figures show the incidence of fluke across all British regions had reduced slightly compared to 2013; but this is no time to be complacent.

Poor returns are hitting beef farmers hard. Any further losses from impaired production, and at the abattoir, add to the sector’s woes.

“This is no longer just a problem in the ‘wet West’. Even areas like the East of England, where historically liver fluke wasn’t a problem, have high levels of liver condemnations.

Farmers across the UK need to look again at their parasite control strategies and act now to get on top of fluke problems.”

Liver fluke is estimated to cost the UK agricultural industry in the region of £13-

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15million a year in lost beef and lamb production2. The economic impact of liver fluke disease in cattle is mainly caused by poor performance, from slower growth rates, and increased finishing times as well as impacting on carcase quality3. Even low numbers of adult fluke can reduce feed intake by up to 15 per cent4, which over the housing period can significantly slow growth and increase the cost of production.

In fact, AHDB Beef and Lamb estimates the parasite can cost cattle farmers as much as £90 per head2, based on an additional 27 days finishing time, a 10kg reduction in carcase weight and carcase conformation that is half a score lower. Liver condemnations at the abattoir further increase the costs with lost income from the fifth quarter.

“Despite the difficult economic situation in the beef sector, farmers shouldn’t compromise on fluke control,” advises Mr. Blair. “The cost benefit of treating beef youngstock for fluke at housing was estimated by AHDB Beef and Lamb in 2011 at around £87 per affected animal, taking into account the cost of treatments2, so it makes financial sense to treat at housing.”

in sheep flocks. These include liver fluke, worms, trace element deficiency, Johne’s Disease and OPA/Jaagsiekte.

Veterinary surgeons can find out what is causing ill thrift through collecting samples of faeces or blood for analysis or through arranging for some animals to be examined post mortem. Often more than one condition is responsible, however the results will allow flock owners and shepherds to set up a suitable treatment and control programme for the flock.

For more information and advice farmers should contact their local vet or SAC Consulting office.

He continues: “Treating at the point of housing will ensure that animals benefit immediately from the production improvements associated with fluke control. In order to ensure that the benefit is sustained for the entire housing period and animals are turned out fluke -free in the spring, cattle should either be tested and retreated if necessary or retreated strategically during housing.

“Farmers should consult their vet or SQP (Suitable Qualified Person) on the most appropriate product for their situation. Options include a straight flukicide, such as nitroxynil (Trodax®) or a combination endectocide, such as ivermectin and clorsulon (Ivomec® Super) which, in addition to treating fluke, is also effective against worms and external parasites.”

References 1. FSA Statistics 2014 2. Wright, N. Economic Impact of Health and Welfare Issues in Beef. Cattle and Sheep in England. Final report prepared by ADAS and submitted to EBLEX. 17/04/2013 3. Sanchez-Vazqueza and Lewis. Vet. Para. 193 (2013) 307– 311 4. Hope-Cawdery et al, Br.V.J 1977

Food Standards Agency figures Total incidence of Fluke in livers in cattle during post mortem inspection at red meat slaughterhouses in 2014 (expressed as percentage of throughput): North West North East South West South East Scotland Wales Great Britain average

23.61% 16.76% 21.13% 16.41% 26.95% 27.04% 22.37%

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| Sheep

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November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Biosecurity

Biosecurity: More than just disinfectant As a vet who has worked with livestock for the majority of my career, I can testify to the importance of biosecurity and to the fact that the highest standards of biosecurity are achieved by local veterinary surgeons working with their farming clients, say’s BVA Senior Vice President John Blackwell. oth farmers and vets have an important role to play in limiting the introduction or transfer of infectious agents. Good biosecurity is about more than just disinfectant and vets on the ground need to encourage best practice as an invaluable protective mechanism for the health of animals.

Good biosecurity is about keeping known pathogens out of your unit. It must be teamed with effective biocontainment, which seeks to limit the transfer of infectious agents once they are discovered on a unit. Together, implementing good biosecurity and biocontainment plays a crucial role

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in protecting livestock, farmers and rural communities from the devastating impact of disease outbreak.

Simple biosecurity measures should be woven into every aspect of farming life, starting with a riskbased approach to trading, isolation and testing of new animals before they are introduced to the unit. Regular testing of all animals to find out the units disease status, and then to further monitor disease is also best practice and in some cases a legal requirement.

There should be a constant dialogue between farmers and their local vets who know the herd and the disease situation in the local area. This will ensure farmers have all of the necessary and most up-to-

16 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

date information about current threats to the health of their herd.

But biosecurity does not start or stop with examination and treatment of livestock. It should be the everyday experience of farming life, from simple hygiene measures such as hand-washing, to farmers knowing what biosecurity measures to take when transporting their animals.

Routine practices such as sharing equipment or personnel can quickly lead to the spread of infectious agents between neighboring units if they are not accompanied by adequate cleansing and disinfection.

Constant vigilance is also necessary to remove or limit animals’ access to potential carriers

of disease, such as infected wildlife or unauthorised personnel.

Together, implementing good biosecurity and biocontainment plays a crucial role in protecting livestock, farmers and rural communities from the devastating impact of disease outbreak.

Such simple biosecurity and biocontainment steps are vital to herd health and a healthy business.

It is impossible to overstate their importance in safeguarding the future of food production across the UK.

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| Sheep

NSA connects sheep farmers and students during lambing time

RAPPA ask: Why a yard?

In the modern world of sheep farming, gone are the days of wooden hurdles, a pocket-full of baler twine and a couple of dogs.

NSA’s Lambing List for 2015/16 is now open for business, with the intention of matchmaking farmers who need assistance at lambing time with agricultural and veterinary students required to undertake a lambing placement as part of their educational studies. or a number of years now, NSA has provided this service which aims to assist members who are looking for help during the lambing season. It also forms part of NSA’s continued support for the next generation of sheep farmers and large animal vets, as the lambing list provides a mechanism for agricultural and veterinary students to get in contact with sheep farmers as they look for work experience placements.

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“The Lambing List is part of NSA’s support for the next generation of sheep farmers” Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “The Lambing List is part of NSA’s support for the next generation of sheep farmers and large animal vets, and is hugely valued by both the students and farmers who use it.

It’s a very simple but effective process – we collate a list of NSA members looking for help at lambing time and provide contact details so students can approach them directly to ask for a placement. It’s a great service for our members, but also provides a boost for young people keen to get ahead. The

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list will be hosted on NSA’s Next Generation website, which is dedicated to young people – www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk – students seeking the list will also find the online resource is packed with useful information about forging a career in the sheep sector.”

As the 2015/16 lambing list is now live, adverts from NSA members will be listed as they are received. Students seeking a lambing work experience placement should visit http://www.nationalsheep.org.uk /nextgeneration/lambing-workexperience.php. Members wishing to place an advert on the list should go to http://www.nationalsheep.org. uk/lambing-list where a quick online application form can be filled out.

The online application will collect useful information such as whether experience is required, number of ewes to lamb, and if accommodation can be provided or not. Other useful information could include breed of ewes, lambing system and/or some brief information on farm set-up. Following membership confirmation, adverts will appear on the NSA Next Generation website. Once placed, adverts can be taken down at any time by contacting NSA Head Office on 01684 892661.

he dogs still exist, of course, but with many sheep kept in large groups, spread around the countryside or county, the many jobs of a sheep farmer require a good handling system. Bringing the sheep to a central handling point is no longer viable in many cases so a mobile handling system that can be taken to the field and deployed is increasingly seen as an essential piece of equipment for any sheep farmer.

“All farmers are looking for solutions to make small improvements to their bottom line.

Labour is possibly the most costly and variable element to any business” says James Ridley, Managing Director of Rappa.

“We don’t see mobile yards as an aspirational product but a basic tool used in farming practises allowing you to carry out your job in a safe and effective way”.

With over 30 years of experience in the sheep industry and 20 years’ experience in sheep handling equipment, Rappa launched its own range of mobile sheep yards four years ago.

“My father started Rappa in the seventies by developing products that helped sheep farmers in a practical, operational and safe way. Our ethos today is to innovate and listen to our customers”.

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Rappa are based in Hampshire where a large part of their product range is manufactured and fabricated, “if we can’t make it ourselves we try to partner with local companies with a similar ethos to Rappa, who are proud to manufacture quality innovative products in Britain” says James.

“By manufacturing our own products we have complete control over the whole process resulting in quality products every time. We listen to our customers and really appreciate any feedback they have, to make improvements and feed these through into the product once tested and evaluated”.

“All farmers are looking for solutions to make small improvements to their bottom line” “The best way to sell in agriculture is word of mouth. We think that our customers are our best sales people, if a farmer thinks your product is good, then he tells other farmers. Farmers sell to farmers and many of our customers are happy to show off their Rappa Mobile Yard”.

To find out more about Rappa and their mobile yards, along with finance packages available, please visit www.rappamobileyards.co.uk or call 01264 810665

November 2015 | Farming Monthly |17

| Finance

Wigtownshire farming firm cultivates success A Wigtownshire agricultural contractor is cultivating growth opportunities, thanks to support from Clydesdale Bank.

G Contracting, based in the seaside village of Port William, secured a five figure funding package from Clydesdale at short notice when they required new equipment to undertake a contract 170 miles away in Coupar Angus, Perthshire. Unusually, the paperwork was completed over the weekend to ensure that Russell and Lorraine Gaw, owners of RG Contracting, were able to secure the contract.

The deal was delivered by Eileen Hornell, Relationship Manager in the Bank’s Dumfries and Galloway’s Business and Private Banking team.

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“Having the right machinery is crucial to a business like ours, which offers services to farms that don’t have the equipment or resources to carry out the job themselves” Founded in 1994 by husband and wife team Russell and Lorraine, RG Contracting now employ 10 full time workers, as well as temporary staff during peak season. The business supplies a wide range of farming services with silage accounting for 40% of its business.

It also spreads up to 100 million gallons of slurry annually.

Despite the challenges of its remote geographical location RG Contracting has around 130 customers spread across Scotland.

As business continues to grow, RG must regularly renew and replace machinery including tractors, forage equipment and diggers. It has also invested in a Vervaet beet harvester to work in Coupar Angus.

Lorraine said: “Having the right machinery is crucial to a business

like ours, which offers services to farms that don’t have the equipment or resources to carry out the job themselves.

“Fortunately, Clydesdale Bank’s team understands the agricultural industry, how it works and what we need in order to be successful and achieve our growth aspirations.

When we wanted to invest in new equipment they acted immediately to assist us and ensure we had the necessary facilities in place.

“Their specialist knowledge has been a real boost for us and we really appreciate the lengths to which Clydesdale Bank goes to support us.”

RG Contracting was recently shortlisted as Contractor of the Year in the prestigious Farmers Weekly Awards.

David Hannon, Head of Agribusiness at Clydesdale Bank, said: “RG Contracting is an ambitious and well managed agricultural business.

“Eileen Hornell, the firm’s Relationship Manager, has worked closely with Russell and Lorraine to help them achieve their growth plans. The company’s expansion highlights the value of Clydesdale Bank’s approach and shows what can be achieved when there is a strong partnership. Russell and Lorraine have created jobs in a remote community and are now the biggest employer locally.

Finance4Farmers...

Finance4Farmers is a trading name under the holding company Change Finance Ltd. We are discrete specialist financial brokerages with a proven historical pedigree stretching back over 25 years, one of the best established brokerage in its field. e have now added to our portfolio farming & agriculture products arranging equipment leasing, farm buildings, fertilisers & Feeds.

Martin Kent, MD says “we live and work in a rural area surrounded by many agricultural businesses such as traditional farms, feed & fertiliser merchants, market garden growers to the trade & public. It seemed the obvious and right decision to offer our financial expertise and our credit facilities to the farming community.

We combine the values of experience and accumulated knowledge with the virtues of

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modern vision and technical competence and are able to discuss the best way forward, offer the most competitive rates available and advise on which type of funding is appropriate to their needs.

“We live and work in a rural area surrounded by many agricultural businesses” Our clients enjoy complete peace of mind whilst working with us; often because we let you get on with your busy lives whilst we sort out the details. Over the years, thousands of satisfied clients have expressed total confidence in our solutions, people and products.”

RG must regularly renew and replace machinery including tractors, forage equipment and diggers.

“Our specialist knowledge of and focus on different sectors helps to bring a challenge to the market giving small and medium sized business the speed and flexibility they require to fulfil their growth ambitions.”

18 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Pests

Hit rat infestations hard & early Keep especially alert for any signs of rats this season and hit infestations hard and early to avoid a repeat of the serious and extended problems seen across the country last winter. his the timely advice of BASF national rodent control specialist, Gavin Wood in the wake of the worst rat problems experienced by many farms in more than decade.

“Last season’s dramatic surge in rat problems almost certainly had its roots in a failure to get on top of populations in the previous exceptionally mild winter,” he explained.

“The fact that infestations continued to be troublesome right through to the spring in many cases suggests relatively high rat populations will have gone out into fields. “So, with reasonable summer breeding conditions another substantial migration into farmsteads is again on the cards this winter. Fail to hit early infestations hard enough and you’ll be facing another losing battle to dislodge large, wellentrenched rat populations.”

All BASF’s extensive experience and trial work shows that the best, most economic way to control rats is to employ a quality rodenticide at the first signs of infestation and across every part of the farm where activity can be detected.

“Wait until you see rats and you’ll be too late,” Gavin Wood insisted. “They always prefer feeding at night and only become visible around active buildings when population pressures force them to forage in daylight hours.

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“It’s easy to spot infestations if you know what to look for. Rat runs along the sides of buildings, faeces and hair in and around stored grain and feed, discarded grain and feed where they shouldn’t be, and freshly-gnawed bottoms of doors, fences and partitions are all tell-tale signs.

“Once you see any signs, search the whole area, concentrating on over-grown vegetation close to buildings, on sites where waste wood, pallets, tyres or other materials are stacked, along the internal and external sides of buildings, and in the quieter, more concealed areas rats invariably favour.

“Then put down plenty of bait points wherever you can detect activity and fill them with a good quality rodenticide, putting the priority on palatability. Especially so, where alternative food sources are readily available.

“Use a modern multi-feed foraging grain bait like Neosorexa Gold proven to give far more rapid and complete uptake than ordinary grain baits as your standard treatment,” he advised.

“Now they can be legally used around as well as inside buildings, you could also consider complementing it with one of the most powerful single feed rodenticides. In view of their potency, though, you’ll need to take special care to protect non-target species from primary or secondary poisoning.

“So I’d only employ them where rodenticide resistance is known or suspected and I’d never use loose single feed formulation outside buildings. Instead, choose a hard or soft block like Storm Secure or our new, exceptionally palatable, Storm Pasta. Unlike loose baits, these can be fastened securely within well-covered and protected bait stations to minimise the danger of removal by foraging rodents and exposure to pets or other wildlife.”

In addition to minimising the risk to non-target species, Gavin Wood stresses that this approach will ensure the greatest and most economic use is made of the best multi-feed rodenticides which can be as effective as ‘single feed’ products in most situations.

“Last year’s problems clearly highlighted how critical it is to have sufficient rodenticide of the right sort on hand from the start of the winter and use it widely and effectively enough as soon as the first signs of infestations can be found,” he concluded.

“Hit rats hard before they become wellestablished around your buildings and you’ll save yourself a lot of time, effort and expense in subsequent baiting throughout the winter, not to mention grain and feed contamination and damage.”

SGAR Stewardship Scheme compliant qualification success RSPH candidates first to achieve legally required qualification under rodenticide stewardship scheme. ew legislation due to come into effect in 2016 will make it illegal to professionally use and buy certain rodenticides (such as bromadiolone, difethialone, difenacoum and flocoumafen) without a qualification approved by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use SGAR stewardship scheme, such as the RSPH rodenticides qualification. SGARs are widely used to treat rodent infestation, so the new legislation will have a huge impact on both pest controllers and those in the specific farming and land

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management industries.

The RSPH qualification guides the learner through the biology and behaviour of rodents, the assessment procedures for a site prior to using SGARs and the requirements for health and safety and record keeping when carrying out rodent management activities. It can be completed in one day with candidates assessed by a multiple choice examination.

Dr Richard Burton, Head of Qualifications at RSPH, said of the news: “I’m thrilled for the Rentokil cohort that they are now the first people in the country to hold a SGAR stewardship scheme approved qualification. It is vital that

pest controllers and farming professionals take action to secure this qualification in order to avoid having an essential professional resource restricted.”

RSPH expects a surge in candidates for this qualification as the effective date of the legislation

approaches, so it is highly recommended that pest, land management and farming professionals register to take the qualification well in advance. To see the full list of RSPH approved centres offering this qualification visit www.rsph.org.uk

November 2015 | Farming Monthly |19

| Grain

EU Commission revises The World’s largest grain yields upwards stirring silo Anna Lockwood, Analyst, AHDB Market Intelligence. n the latest MARS Bulletin released by the EU Commission yesterday, EU wheat, barley and maize yields for 2015 were all increased, compared with September’s estimates. It is likely that the revisions were made due to weather improvements towards the end of the EU harvesting period, as suggested in the September MARS Bulletin.

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The increased grain maize yield estimate now stands at 6.47t/ha; however, despite the upward revision, the estimate remains 8% below the five-year average of 7.04t/ha The 2015 EU soft wheat yield was revised up to 5.86t/ha, from 5.81t/ha in September. This had a direct impact on the total wheat yield, which was also revised up accordingly, to 5.62t/ha. The total

barley yield was increased to 4.65t/ha, 4% higher than the current five-year average. The increased grain maize yield estimate now stands at 6.47t/ha; however, despite the upward revision, the estimate remains 8% below the five-year average of 7.04t/ha.

Looking ahead to 2016, the report revealed that poor weather conditions in some eastern and northern regions of the EU may affect winter planting. In turn, this potentially could point to lower yields in the affected regions.

Please note that although initial reports indicate a difficult start for winter crops in parts of the EU, it is important to remember that it is still too early to draw any conclusions regarding next year’s crop.

20 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

Dan-Corn in its 60th Anniversary year has launched the 60 foot stirring silo and it has a capacity of up to 1,675 tonnes.

his unique silo comes with 5 stirring augers to ensure perfect mixing of the dried grain and a homogenous quality of the dried crops.

This along with a new 54 foot diameter stirring silo will be added to their already comprehensive range of stirring silos.

It is anticipated that stirring silos with capacities of between 500 and 1000 tonnes will continue to be the most popular with the UK farmer, however with the addition

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of the larger silos to its range this increases the options available when conditions allow and it also highlights Dan-Corn’s continued desire to develop further efficient and economical solutions for drying and safe storage of grain.

Silos can be filled via a simple auger through to full conveying systems.

All silos can be supplied in a standard galvanised finish; alternatively there is the option of a powder coated coloured finish and selected from the extensive RAL colour range.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

The broom that goes against the grain SweepEx MegaMax push brooms are different from other brooms. esigned with patented side retainers to hold bulk volumes of material in front of the brush, the MegaMax avoids spillage at the sides. In itself that represents a major time-saving which, coupled with the ease and speed of mounting the brush to a telehandler, skidsteer, fork lift or category II three-point hitch, makes the MegaMax the ideal broom for anything from large scale grain moving and clear up, to a whole range of uses around the farm, in landscape maintenance, warehouses and distribution sites, snow clearance and much more.

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MegaMax clearly demonstrates how you can be different and yet very, very effective Because there’s no need to spend time going over swept areas to clear spill lines you can move swiftly though the work and the end brushes are also carefully twisted so they pull material away from a wall or curb, sweeping it into the main path of the broom.

Add to this the fact that there are

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no belts, chains, pulleys or anything else to potentially create down time, and there’s no flying debris, you can see the MegaMax is safe and maintenance free.

Hard wearing polypropylene bristles with a high-tensile steel broom head and mounting hardware, in a heavy-duty powder coated finish, ensure the brooms are durable and designed for a long life. You can sweep up to 450 miles before changing bristles.

Such is the versatility that SweepEx brooms will sweep small rocks, mud and snow as well as pushing grain in the grain store and you get the benefit of being able to use the squeegee effect on wet floors.

What’s also different is SweepEx brooms stand on their own weight and the bristles are so rigid you could jump up and down on them without them giving way.

Other brooms have the inconvenience of having to be placed in some sort of stand as the bristles will not support the weight when not in use.

Available in 1.5m, 1.8m and 2.4m widths the SweepEx MegaMax clearly demonstrates how you can be different and yet very, very effective.

Contact Wessex: 01264 345870 or visit www.wessexintl.com

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Grain

Svegma saves milling wheat at Bignor Farms When fire damaged the existing grain drier at Bignor Farms in Pulborough West Sussex beyond repair, a replacement continuous flow drier was needed quickly and with minimal disruption.

DC Systems has considerable experience in such circumstances, so the company’s expertise was called in by Goodrowes of Chichester who Bignor Farms contacted in the first instance. BDC went on to work closely in conjunction with David Head of installation company H&W Engineering, to put together a scheme featuring a new Svegma drier, two Skandia conveyors and a Soby R40 pre-cleaner. The BDC scheme not only offered a cost effective solution, but also fitted into the existing space without alterations to the building - an important factor as the drier was to be replaced on insurance.

The inline dust and chaff remover on the previous drier was upgraded on the advice of BDC Systems’ Area Sales Manager, Luke Bullus, to a higher efficiency Soby

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R40 aspirated grain pre-cleaner.

Luke commented: “It was a tight fit and both the dryer and the upgraded pre-cleaner fitted within the plant’s existing layout with literally only millimetres to spare.”

The general design of the Svegma drier has altered very little over the years, with improvements coming mainly in the form of more efficient burners, fans and control panel. This means that spare parts are available for Svegma driers even in excess of 30 years old.

Mr Tupper of Bignor Farms commented: “We have noticed a remarkable difference in the performance of the Svegma system compared to our previous drier. It has exceeded all expectations despite us really putting it to the test this harvest”. With bad weather approaching Bignor Farms had approximately 600 tonnes of milling wheat yet to cut. The decision to combine was made when the moisture content of the wheat was

22 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

still between 24 and 25%. All 600 tonnes were successfully put through the drier in one pass, albeit at a reduced throughput, reducing the moisture content to 14%.

Impressively, the hagberg (falling number) score was maintained at the level available in the crop following the rain. Even though the quality suffered as a result of the weather, it was not damaged further by the drier when removing such a large amount of moisture in a single pass.

The inclusion of the superior Soby pre-cleaner meant that Bignor Farms did not need to pass their grain through their cleaner for the first time in many seasons.

The Svegma 3/4 SVC drier at

Bignor Farms features two burners on a short, wide drying section.

This leads to better mixing of hot air and a more even drying column than on the farm’s previous drier.

The Svegma drier is easy to operate thanks to an upgraded touch screen control panel. All drying temperatures and throughputs are constantly recorded for future reference. Mr Tupper was delighted that he can also “check on the drier from his combine”.

BDC Systems is the UK's leading supplier for grain drying, cleaning, storage, handling and ventilation systems. Tel: 01672 810851, visit www.bdcsystems.com or email: info@bdcsystems.com

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| Grain

Alzon urea fuels world wheat yield record Northumberland grower Rod Smith is claiming a new world wheat yield record of 16.52t/ha due partly to his decision to use a stabilised urea fertiliser that is proving its worth in the north of England and Scotland. r Smith applied 310kg/ha of nitrogen to the bumper crop, of which over half was supplied by Alzon 46, a high quality, slow-release urea granule.

The total application was based on a target crop yield of 17t/ha, soil testing and previous cropping. “We could have applied more, but were a bit wary as the crop was following winter beans and we didn’t want to risk lodging,” says Mr Smith.

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The record-breaking crop of Dickens, grown at JE Smith’s Beal Farm, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, benefitted from an excellent growing season with plenty of sunshine and no crop stress, he notes.

“However, there’s no doubt that the fertiliser programme, which we are still in the process of tweaking, contributed a lot to yield,” says Mr Smith.

The 11ha crop, which also received four fungicide and growth regulator sprays, if confirmed will easily beat the current official

15.64t/ha Guinness Book of Records crop grown by New Zealand farmer Mike Solari.

The main nitrogen programme started with Piamon, a granulated 33:30 compound of nitrogen and sulphur manufactured in Germany by SKW Piesteritz, which supplied 80kg/ha of N at around GS23.

Alzon 46, also manufactured by SKW Piesteritz, followed in two splits at GS30 and 31/32 in a 60:40 split.

“Although Alzon is a 46%N stabilised urea that reduces leaching and volatilisation we played extra safe by applying two splits,” says Mr Smith.

The nitrogen programme was topped off with 60kg of late-applied ammonium nitrate.

Alzon quality and spreadability was second to none, he adds. “We have 36m tramlines and found Alzon spread very accurately indeed, as reflected in the final yield.”

The fertiliser programme for the record crop largely reflected on-farm practice, apart from the final top up.

All Beal Farm’s wheat crops received 80kg/ha of N as Piamon and 170kg of N as Alzon, says David Cairns of McCreath Simpson and Prentice, which markets Alzon and Piamon on behalf of Gleadell Agriculture in the north of England and Scotland.

“The average yield exceeded 14t/ha, about 2t/ha above the area average. Rod doesn’t stint on inputs where crops justify them.”

Mr Cairns says Alzon is gaining in popularity as confidence in the product grows.

“Alzon’s main advantage over conventional nitrogen fertilisers is that it contains a nitrification inhibitor, which greatly reduces losses from leaching or volatilisation – the product provides a steady stream of nitrogen to the crop rather than in one big hit.

“Alzon can be applied early and still feed plants through to flag leaf and beyond, critical in today’s highyielding crops.”

This can be achieved with fewer applications – a total of three rather than four passes were made on the wheats at Beal Farm this year.

“Most enhanced urea fertilisers contain urease inhibitors that work best in warm climates. Alzon has been specifically developed for the cooler, northern European climate by using a nitrogen stabiliser that controls the rate of conversion of ammonium to highly mobile nitrate.

“This can improve crop uptake, quality and yield as has been demonstrated so graphically at Beal Farm this season.”

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Arable

BP2015: Leaner. More specialist.

More business-like.

“Two years accelerate by at pace, nothing stands still,” says Rob Clayton AHDB Potatoes’ Strategy Director.

This month the whole potato industry heads again to Harrogate 12 & 13 November, for BP2015. t’s not only the venue of Harrogate International Centre and the brand new companies that are exhibiting that’s different. The £4.1bn potato industry continually becomes leaner, more specialist and business-like.

“We are grateful for Branston and Grimme’s support as gold sponsors. This bespoke event is all about cementing relationships, seeing innovation and production launches and learning from others, either in the expert-led seminars and panel debates, from conversations on one of the 200 stands or in the bar after the industry dinner.”

For the first time it’s a genuinely indoor affair with our all machinery specialists and exhibitors sheltered from the November weather.

“We’re particularly extending our

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welcome to our youngsters,” says Dr Philip Burgess AHDB Potatoes’ head of Knowledge Transfer.

“Whether part of our Next Generation programme, one of our PhD students or one of our daytrippers joining us from Agricultural courses around the country, these are two days in which you can talk, listen and get to grips with the opportunities and enthusiasm that go hand in hand with the potato sector.”

Jim Aitken, Senior Field Manager, at joint BP2015 Gold sponsor Branston Limited, is excited about the event. “Branston is one of the major players in the country for pre-pack potatoes but we also produce processing potatoes,” says Jim. “Branston has been one of the major BP sponsors for several years and we are again this year.”

“It’s important that we’re demonstrating our wares and

engaging with everyone in the industry. There’s always change in the industry, a lot of it’s slow and quite incremental but you find over the years things move on and do change. Branston likes to be involved where ever possible in the cutting edge of industry changes both in terms of technology and in terms of customer driven need and customer driven demand.”

The Potato Industry Dinner The renowned industry dinner takes place at the spectacular, Harrogate Royal Hall at the end of the first day provides the perfect

environment to unwind with friends and colleagues, network or to entertain valuable guests. Individual tickets and tables can be booked at bp2015.co.uk Seasoned sports commentator Nick Mullins is primed to deliver the after dinner speech. Nick will bring a relaxed humour and unrivalled insight into his work at numerous sporting events. The most topical being the Rugby World Cup, where, as the lead commentator for ITV, he has had access to every team.

To register for BP2015 go to: www.bp2015.co.uk

Sweet opportunity NFU Sugar and British Sugar look ahead to a postquota world. s we pass the two year mark until EU sugar production quotas come to an end, NFU Sugar and British Sugar are looking ahead to a post-quota world for sugar beet growers.

Growers are being invited to make their voices heard at a conference next month, where they will be invited to think about future contracting options compared to the existing fixed pricing arrangement.

NFU sugar board chairman William Martin said: “In 2016 beet growers will be planting their final crop under the current arrangement, so we have to start planning now for what the postquota world will look like.

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“We want to hear from growers about their views on beet pricing options and their attitude to risk and reward. This conference is an important part of our planning for 2017.”

Some of the pricing options could include maintaining the current status quo or the introduction of a market derived price link. This might provide an opportunity for growers to get closer to the sugar market.

Growers could be offered more flexibility in contract lengths which may allow for better advanced planning.

The event takes place at the East of England showground on 13 November from 10am-12.30pm.

Places can be booked by calling the NFU Sugar Helpline on 0370 066 1974 or visiting nfusugar.com

24 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Arable

Specialty products and knowledge deliver increased yield and quality Plant yields are highly dependent on weather with the main parameters being water, sunlight and temperature. When crop protection has been taken care of, these factors are responsible for more than 40% of yield. n a good season, in terms of the weather, it is expected that yields will be better than average. The plants are able to grow and develop well with more efficient resource capture resulting in that extra productivity reflected in yield. What can make the difference in maximising the potential for yield is then crop nutrition.

As soils vary widely in properties and mineral composition, and plants have different needs and sensitivities, much knowledge is required to provide appropriate feed to the plants to increase their productivity without detriment to their quality.

Good understanding of the farm’s soils is essential for nutrition management and equally the crop’s requirements. Knowing the soil’s analysis will suggest which minerals are likely to be deficient in the season, but the application timing is essential to avoid physiological issues triggered by the deficiency where, even not visible, can slow down the plant’s growth.

The choice of product is critical as some forms of minerals are slower to be available to the plants and others are more readily available such as the nitrates. For instance, magnesium nitrate is one of the most available forms of magnesium to the crop, and most expensive, whilst magnesium sulphate is slower to be taken up.

Therefore, there are choices to be made, an early application with sulphates, a quick requirement for correction with nitrates, and whether this is going to be administered foliarly or applied in the soil.

Due to the high complexity of some soils, applications of some minerals are less effective due to mineral interactions that cause lock ups. Correcting one deficiency may cause an issue in another, for instance in a calcareous soil or when potassium is high, magnesium becomes unavailable to the plants.

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For micronutrients specifically, foliar applications are appropriate to deliver a dose of minerals that are in deficiency or likely to be, as the foliage can absorb them through the epidermis. However, plant leaves vary in characteristics and most have a waxy layer.

Addition of adjuvants to the fertiliser formulations help to stick, spread or penetrate into the leaves which support absorption. Crop Intellect Ltd has specifically developed such products for crop nutrition providing a multifunctional adjuvant to increase absorption efficiency.

A typical mistake in fertiliser applications is the mix of several products together. If these are single micronutrients they are likely to overdose the plants, or in the case of multi-nutrient products they will form complexities in the tank and still overdose some nutrients. Strong evidence exists which demonstrates the efficacy of some fertiliser products. However, when these are applied in a mix with others in most situations there is no synergy but a loss of the beneficial effects. This is more pronounced in products that claim to stimulate plant physiological changes that reflect in improved yields.

A further common mistake is treating most wheat varieties the same way. Many years of research performed by Chris Rigley at Yorkshire Arable Marketing Ltd (YAM) have shown that certain varieties respond negatively to fungicide applications but the effect of not applying these would be more detrimental. Similarly, there are varieties that respond negatively when supplied with micronutrients. In some cases this also explains product inconsistencies between seasons.

The results are available from YAM Ltd. It is difficult for agronomists to have that knowledge and provide advice and products per variety but the closer they can provide an appropriate recommendation the higher the resulting yield can be. he choice of product is the next most important factor for a high yield target. Through extensive

research, Crop Intellect Ltd has the uptake of Ca, Fe and Mn. developed technologies that Again, these should be ideally improve the efficiency of plant applied in a programme and not functions. These include a mixed together as the plants are Image: from left to right Rhona patented technology that overwhelmed andStephen, the benefits are& (Rumbletonrig) increases the utilisation of less thanJohn whatMitchell is achievable when magnesium by the plant resulting each product is applied separately. in an increased efficiency to Correct timing of application is produce chlorophyll and therefore essential to provide plant vigour energy which results in higher and strength i.e. with calcium growth rate and resource capture. when the N application will drive This increases the biomass cell growth and stress the cells by produced and reflects a higher stretching and dilute the minerals yield. This technology is added to further. products that contain magnesium For further advice, support on such as iGniteTM which increases your decisions and knowledge on the efficiency that the mineral is crop nutrition you can contact the administered and utilised. friendly team at Crop Intellect Ltd. Other technologies available from Crop Intellect Ltd increase Dr Apostolos Papadopoulos

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Arable

There's only one place to be this November!

CropTec, held at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, provides the ideal opportunity for everyone in the dynamic arable sector to take stock and explore the latest technology designed to boost output, save costs and protect the environment now and into the future. ur 2015 seminar programme focusses on crop establishment; crop nutrition; crop protection and plant breeding, full of timely, technical advice as well as thought-provoking ideas. There’s also plenty of opportunity to discuss the topics related to your business in more depth with experienced personnel on the technical and businessrelated stands.

Here is just a taste of some of the new and latest products on show from our exhibitors.

Adama app New ADAMA app keeps farmers ‘WaterAware™’ The WaterAware APP spatially assimilates soil type and the associated soil moisture deficit information along with forecast weather, to provide farmers with a simple yes/no guide with regard to the timing of spray and pellet applications and the potential risk to surface water.

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Airinov’s national launch to the UK market Airinov uses UAVs to gather information from which agronomic models can be produced to, for example, draw up quantified recommendation maps of fields, specifying the crop’s needs for the final nitrogen dressing on wheat or oilseed rape.

Billericay Farm Services- A novel flowmeter BFS ‘FlowCheck’ The prime objective in developing this device is to simplify and speed up the checking of nozzles during a sprayer test.

The latest Case IH Quadtrac comes to CropTec The latest Quadtrac and Steiger series sets new standards of productivity, reliability and comfort, exceeding by far the expectations of the most demanding professional farmers.

The new line-up reaches new heights of productivity by blending optimal technical characteristics with a superb operator interface in the form of the best cab and controls

26 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

available. With the Steiger and Quadtrac 620 Case IH offers the most powerful tractor currently on the market, producing a rated power of 628 hp and delivering a massive maximum output of 692 hp.

Two brand new molecules from Dow AgroSciences approach the UK market Dow AgroSciences will be previewing two new active ingredients at CropTec: Arylex™, a broad-leaved weed herbicide and Isoclast™, an innovative insecticide.

Also being featured will be N-Lock™, a nitrogen stabiliser.

John Deere’s first-ever four-track tractor will be making its UK show debut at CropTec The 9RX range is designed to provide superior power, durability and improved ride quality, especially when handling large implements.

The large, robust undercarriage features a positive-drive track system that effectively delivers more power to the ground. This is ideal for heavy draft applications such as cultivating, ploughing, discing and

ripping, subsoiling and large-scale drilling applications.

New Holland to demonstrate latest PLM technologies Demonstrations of New Holland’s EZ-Pilot™ assisted steering system; PLM™ Mapping software; a range of displays; and the new PLM™ RTK Connect correction service for accurate navigation will take place on the company’s stand throughout the event.

Fast-acting crop safe bromoxynil formulation with unique weed control spectrum Maya by NuFarm is a highly active, non-ALS herbicide for the effective contact control of broadleaved weeds in cereals. Maya is a valuable replacement for Stellox and Oxytril CM which contain ioxynil, an active soon to be lost under the

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| Arable

Geomatrix to show soil conductivity measurement at CropTec European re-registration process.

Pottinger Intelligent Distribution system This new innovative seed distribution system allows full control of any seed outlet from the tractor seat. This ensures maximum convenience and efficiency for the operator allowing any row or tramline configuration to be handled with ease.

Crop protection for arable and livestock farms The Voluntary Initiative has teamed up with the Campaign for the Farmed Environment to produce this best practice guide, encouraging the responsible use of pesticides of farm.

Crop Protection for Arable and Livestock Farmers completes the CFE set of farm management literature – helping farmers and land managers to protect and enhance the

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environmental value of farmland, through environmental measures that sit alongside productive agriculture.

Win a Davis Vantage Pro 2 weather station worth £1,500 Our headline sponsor Adama is giving you the opportunity to win a Davis Vantage Pro 2 weather station worth £1,500 when you book a ticket to CropTec. You will be automatically be entered into a free prize draw which will take place each day of the show.

Don't forget, we have made the event FREE for farmers but you MUST pre-register online to claim your free ticket.

Pre-registered general admission (non-farmers) costs only £12.

Admission on the day will cost £15 for all.

Rapid measurements now possible with ‘no spikes’ compact device. t Croptec Geomatrix Earth Science is exhibiting two instruments for measuring soil conductivity, neither of which require metal spikes being pushed into the ground so measurements can be taken rapidly and at any time of the year.

The EM38 is a compact, lightweight device suitable for

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towing behind a Quad or small ATV and will give two readings of soil electrical conductivity at 0.75m and 1.5m depth, data is GPS referenced and can be recorded by a Farmworks mobile device The OhmMapper can measure soil electrical conductivity at up to 5 customisable depths to a maximum of 10 metres. Data is GPS referenced and can be imaged using Farmworks for final map production.

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| Muck & Slurry

Quality and reliability top Mastek Combi-Injector priority for Tramspread equipment...

The new Combi-Injector can be connected to any umbilical system.

...and there’s more to come at LAMMA 2016! ramspread umbilical equipment is known for its exceptional build quality and reliability, therefore it expects the same from the range of slurry handling equipment it markets on behalf of other manufacturers.

These include Bauer pumps, Nock separators, Reck and Mix-It slurry mixers, Hilcoflex nitrile rubber and PU drag hose, Snap-Tite PU drag hose, Storz and Bauer couplings, the Joskin range, Albers Alligator slurry bags, and Agri-Tank slurry stores.

The demand for engine driven pump units complete with SIL remote controls has proved very successful and there are many more farmers requesting full application monitoring equipment too.

There are many more farmers requesting full application monitoring equipment The new dribble bar will be launched at LAMMA 2016, along with two further new projects being developed.

For more info contact Terry Baker on +44 (0)1449 766 133 or visit www.tramspread.co.uk

erforming two jobs in one move, the Combi-Injector includes a macerator that feeds slurry/sludge down through high tensile steel tubes, located behind each leg, so that slurry/sludge is injected directly into the soil close to the roots while the field is also been subsoiled.

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With the subsoiling leg allowing air into the soil and the slurry/sludge getting close to the grassroots, there is no loss of nitrogen or nutrients, leading to significant savings in fertiliser costs. Another benefit of the Combi - Injector is that there is an elimination of odours & therefore no risk of air pollution.

Get further details from Mastek.

See us at Midland Machinery Show Stand No OS N5

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Tramspread equipment continues to evolve and this autumn Tramspread Contracting has been trialling a new 9m dribble bar. This will fit in with the existing range of 6m, 12m, 15m and 24m dribble bars, and complimented by the Vogelsang dribble bars.

28 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Muck & Slurry

Landia pump is top lot at Rugby Farmers Mart A Landia chopper pump is keeping control of slurry at one of the UK’s leading livestock markets. upplied by Midland Slurry Systems, the 7.5kW Landia DG pump feeds a separator at Rugby Farmers Mart (RFM), based at the National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park. Owned and run by farmers, the state-ofthe-art market runs every Monday (and seasonal Fridays), with around 3,500 to 4,000 prime lambs, ewes, fat cattle and calves for sale.

Continually removing solids and discharging the treated wastewater during almost two and a half days of the post-market clean-up operation, the Landia chopper pump replaced a unit from a different manufacturer that

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couldn’t cope with the solids.

Tom Wrench, RFM’s General Manager/Auctioneer, said: “The Landia pump does a very good job and with Midland Slurry Systems, we have a finely tuned system in place that meets the high standards we need for an operation of this size, which is continuing to grow. The pump needs to boss the separator – not the other way round – which the Landia unit does without any trouble”.

Giles Russell, Managing Director of Midland Slurry Systems, whose grandfather was an auctioneer at what was Rugby Cattle Market, added: “The external cutting system of the Landia chopper pump works a treat at RFM, where it is certainly put through its paces after

the auction. During the high season it operates for over 100 hours per week, with no blockages, requiring only very basic routine maintenance, once per year”.

Float-switch controlled, the Landia chopper pump removes solids and discharges wastewater at a rate of 5,000 gallons per hour to suit the process at RFM, which has cattle/sheep penning and a sales ring all under one roof. Founded in 2006 by a group of 250 farmers (following the closure of the market close to Rugby railway station), Rugby Farmers Mart now attracts farmers from all over the Midlands and beyond.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Muck & Slurry

Bauer Turbomix – a new solution for preparing slurry for field spreading A new tractor-mounted slurry mixer from Bauer is designed to homogenise solids and liquids in slurry lagoons and belowfloor slurry tanks ready for spreading. he Bauer Turbomix MTXH has three overlapping blades driven by a shaft housed in a 120mm x 120mm square section tube.

Made from 4mm galvanised steel, the tube contains multiple shaft support bearings and is filled with oil for guaranteed constant lubrication.

Two hydraulic cylinders raise and lower the mixer’s cranked frame and when access to an underground tank is needed – the opening need be no more than 80cm square – a third cylinder is available to tilt the shaft.

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30 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

A guard ring surrounding the 600mm diameter mixing assembly is shaped to channel the flow of material over the ‘propeller’ and so optimise the chopping performance of the three sharped-edged blades.

This arrangement is also designed to be very power-efficient – Bauer says that in comparative tests at research centres in Austria, the Turbomix MTXH recording the lowest power consumption for homogenising slurry, converting pto power into thrust more effectively than other slurry mixers tested.

Different blade variations are available to suit the storage situation. So-called ‘pushing’ blades are considered best for incorporating surface crust, while the ‘pulling’ blades are most efficient for mixing of solids and liquids.

Both types of blade are available on 4m, 5m and 6m shafts designed to work effectively in storage facilities of 1000-1400cu m.

Also available is an ‘L’ version with larger diameter blades and a reinforced tube in four lengths from 7m to 10m.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Muck & Slurry

‘Pump it’ with Greencrop Greencrop is the sole UK importer for the very successful range of WAM Sepcom slurry & digestate separators. Both the horizontal & the new vertical systems are working on crop feed and food waste AD plants throughout the UK, and the Sepcom Visscher green bedding separator system is becoming increasingly popular. ollowing the success of the slurry and digestate systems, Sepcom have introduced a new range of electric submersible pumps and mixers.

The range of Sepcom electrical submersible pumps start at 1.5kw up to 7.5kw. The GCWSP submersible pump consists of a waterproof cast iron body with internal electric motor and a special impeller. The pump unit contains a multi-blade impeller and double chop steel blades. It is designed for feeding fibrous material to a separator, such as the Greencrop Sepcom systems.

The pumps are suitable for heavy-duty applications that require a prior shredding and chopping of solids or fibrous substances, contained in the material to be pumped to a separator. The GCWSP submersible pump is available in

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various sizes. It’s most typical application is in cow manure management due to its high chopping performance that ensures even feeding of separators. The machine also works with slurry plant management (pig and poultry).

Benefits • High flow rate • Quick installation • Vertical or horizontal installation • Sturdy design and wearresistant coating • Easy maintenance • High separation performance • Reduced operating costs • Throughput rate: - 90l/s - 324m3/h max - Head: 21.5m max - Drive unit power rating: 2.2 kW - 7.5kW - Outlet size: DN80 - DN100 The new range of Sepcom electrical submersible mixers start at 1.5kw up to 7.5kw. The GCWSM submersible mixer drive unit

enables the impeller that has a geometry meant for high effectiveness, allowing the floating solids to homogenise to the material settled on the bottom of the tank.

The submersible mixer has been designed to mix the material, preventing it from settling on the bottom of the tank and makes it suitable for the pump feeding into a separator.

The GCWSM submersible mixer, available in various sizes, finds its most typical application in manure processing due to its mixing function that ensures high performance for the feeding of separators or in conveying sewage or waste water.

The GCWSM type can also be used in biogas plants (in concrete open tanks) for the treatment of sewage (pigs and poultry) and in the treatment of waste water.

Benefits • Wide range available

• Quick installation • Sturdy design • Easy maintenance • Excellent mixing performance • Low running costs • Drive unit power rating: 1.5 kW - 7.5kW • Effective mixing up to 40 metres With the development of AD plants becoming more popular, the pumps and mixers are a beneficial addition to improving separation performance.

Both the pumps and mixers can be supplied with a mechanical winch system for ease of movement within a tank or pit and to aid servicing.

For further information on the Greencrop Sepcom range or any other Greencrop products, please visit www.greencrop.co.uk Alternatively, please contact Howard Chantry on 07881 787997 or e: howard@greencrop.co.uk.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Muck & Slurry

Separation time with new Borger Bioselect Achieving throughputs of up to 60m3/h, Borger’s new Bioselect BS 50 is designed for the easy and highly effective separation of slurry at farms and biogas/AD plants. ombining a separator and two Maintenance-InPlace (MIP) Borger rotary lobe pumps, Bioselect can be easily integrated into an existing system or used as a mobile separator.

The separator is load-triggered, whilst the feed pump ensures that volumes do not exceed capacity.

The high density solids-dischargepump determines the degree of thickness, so the user can (for example) thicken 4 per cent dissolved solids (DS) content liquid into 12 per cent DS to make it suitable for a tanker. Likewise,

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liquid manure and fermentation residue can be thickened to 22 per cent DS, without making any mechanical adjustments to the machine.

The Borger rotary lobe pumps convey the substrate from the fermenter to the Bioselect.

Meanwhile, a control unit continuously regulates the Bioselect’s optimum load. And as the BS 50 separates the solids from the liquids and removes them from the system, liquids are fed back in stages into the fermenter.

Call +44 1902 798977 visit www.boerger.com or email uk@boerger.com

32 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Energy

2015 maize harvest Anaerobic digestion using fob activated weigh industry fights to survive beams With the introduction to the market of a portable unmanned weighbridge with fob activated tare weights for tractor/trailer combinations, agricultural contractors have already been busy using this system to its maximum potential. he original system from Griffith Elder consisted of 2.8m long beams and ramps, armoured cables, traffic light, and WB4 indicator housed in a waterproof case with printer and built in power supply and was designed for twin axle trailers as a weigh in and weigh out system.

The development of a new WB6RF control system paved the way for fobs to be used to activate the system and apply a pre entered tare weight to the weighing calculation. The system can accommodate up to 99 different vehicle entries and a fob can be allocated to any one of these entries in a matter of seconds.

With the introduction of tri-axle

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silage trailers, a new 4.2m long system has been developed for the 2015 harvest, that can weigh the tractor in one go and the trailer in a second bite. Other added refinements include a higher definition screen and USB memory stick data capture.

The most attractive features of this system are its sturdy construction, speed of operation, portability and ease of use, all essential when you need to keep cycle times from field to clamp to a minimum, especially as you are relying on contractors who are harvesting and carting.

For further details on this product range, please visit www.griffith-elder.com or contact Tim Spafford at Griffith Elder & Co Ltd on 01284 719619

The Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources Association has strongly objected to DECC’s plans to massively cut back government support for new AD plants.

he association’s response to the review of the Feedin Tariff called for the government to set out much more ambitious plans for delivering new anaerobic digestion (AD) plants.

DECC’s proposals would cut industry growth to negligible levels compared to 2014 and 2015, failing to deliver the baseload electricity generation capacity that would help keep the lights on.

The proposed ‘cap’ in capacity supported represents a budget cut of 65% for plants <500kW and 41% for plants >500kW compared to deployment in 2014.

In making the case for how government proposals threaten the industry’s development, ADBA’s Chief Executive, Charlotte Morton, explained: “The ridiculously low deployment levels set out in DECC’s consultation threaten the industry’s ability to generate extra capacity and deliver our potential.

Without continued growth in AD, the industry cannot contribute the additional baseload electricity to help keep the lights on, offer costeffective greenhouse gas reduction or grow a domestic supply chain which could export to the world.

“DECC’s proposed deployment cap represents just 72.7MW over three and a quarter years – but to put this in context the AD industry deployed 47.9MW from 89 plants under the FIT scheme in 2014 alone. We understand government’s need to ensure value for money, but they should recognise that AD delivers much more than energy alone, and can reduce the cost of support over time if it is supported now.

“Of course this cap comes in addition to the government’s decision to remove preaccreditation from the FIT scheme.

Given the length of time that it takes to develop AD plants, the announcement has already had a crippling impact on investor confidence – we know that £250 million of investment is on hold from two prospective investors alone. It is crucial for DECC to offer tariff guarantees early in the project development process to restore investors’ faith in government.”

The decisions outlined in the consultation do not just affect jobs

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and investment in rural communities through the AD industry. Far from lessening the impact on bill payers, these decisions will have a profoundly negative affect on UK energy, resource and carbon abatement costs. Highlighting this point, Charlotte added: “DECC’s current proposals would prove disastrous for bill payers – prompting higher consumer bills in the long-term, a greater reliance on energy sourced from volatile parts of the world, an uncertain future for UK farming resilience, and a carbon abatement bill in the billions.

“We understand government’s need to ensure value for money, but they should recognise that AD delivers much more than energy alone, and can reduce the cost of support over time if it is supported now” “The Energy Secretary suggests that these decisions are aimed at ‘re-setting’ government policy to deliver cost effective baseload energy – but ADBA has provided evidence showing how AD will offer cheaper baseload energy than new nuclear by the time Hinkley Point C is delivered, providing localised generation without the risk of a single large development.”

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Energy

It’s not all doom & gloom for renewable energy Given the recent headlines on renewable energy subsidy cuts by the Conservative government a lot of UK farmers are unsurprisingly unsettled. But it’s not all doom and gloom. The renewable energy industry is now mature, and much more able to become self-sufficient. he Energy Now Expo, taking place in February 10 and 11, 2016 is an event for farmers and landowners to find out exactly what options are available to them, offering a chance to hear from industry experts speaking in multi-stream panel debates, and there are some excellent businesses offering secure schemes that stand up in their own right.

Jonathan Scurlock, chief renewable energy and climate change adviser for the NFU will be speaking in the Energy Now Expo multi-streamed conference, and says the current government are seemingly flexing their muscles with this ‘energy policy reset’.

“Clean energy is in the firing line. Beginning with the Conservative manifesto commitment to limit the growth of

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wind power, then hitting solar with cuts to the feed in tariff scheme, the list of revisions to government policy on green measures just goes on growing, and these changes are naturally disconcerting for farmers. But I’m positive that this is not all negative for the industry.

“The maturing renewable energy sector offers a lot, circumventing the basic need for government incentives,” he says.

According to Jonathan, many farmers have already concluded that diversifying their agricultural businesses with clean energy production is a sensible way of supporting profitable farming and enhancing Britain’s food security in a volatile world, “and there are some convincing pitches from renewable energy companies to farmers, wanting to benefit financially from renewables.

“Farmers are worried about

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rising energy costs, they’re dealing with weather volatility, and fluctuating commodity and food prices that are currently low, but they can utilise renewable schemes to generate heat and power to offer extra income to support profitable farming,” he says.

The options are growing, as the sector evolves, for instance, farmers not in a position to borrow money may be able to opt into a competitively priced power purchase agreement, where they can expect to pay around seven or eight pence per unit, offering long term savings,” he says.

“Opportunities in solar will be more competitively priced next year, and even though the margins are tightening for installers and developers, there are still attractive deals.

“The ending of ‘new subsidies’ for onshore wind means that the sector will have to move into subsidy free territory, and there is tougher planning guidance for all new wind turbine applications, where it needs to be subject to certain assessments. The real issue lies with farmers who want planning in England to install their own turbines, although the large scale wind industry has negotiated some leeway with the government,” says Jonathan.

Regardless of these cuts, Jonathan is positive that in the absence of strong political opposition, the way forward must be to engage with ‘pro-business advocates’ that champion the green economy and the greening role of small-to-medium sized enterprises. “The private sector should lead the transition to a lowcarbon economy,” he adds.

According to David Jacobmeyer, director of Energy Now Expo, where Jonathan will be speaking next February, the event has developed a number of new features to ensure visitors can

access the most up to date, innovative opportunities available in the renewable energy sector, and there are plenty to choose from.

“Oil prices, as well as other heating and power bills will keep rising, farmers are working to tighter margins, and there’s a case for installing renewable energy initiatives not only for keeping down energy costs, and generating extra income, but also for numerous on site uses as well.

There’s an increase in ‘private wire agreements’, where you can sell the power you generate to local power users. This is local businesses working with other local businesses, and is an alternative to the grid.

“Opportunities in solar will be more competitively priced next year” “Storage is another area that’s developing massively. Historically there have been two options in terms of energy use; using it, and or selling it to the grid. Storage is the third option, with exciting ideas in development, such as having your own mini-grid on site, to store and use energy whenneeded, which is why we’ve added a dedicated energy storage session to our conference and invited a number of key suppliers of these types of system to participate in the exhibition,” he says.

Energy Now Expo continues to be the only renewable energy event organised exclusively for the agricultural and rural sectors, and free places are available to book today.

To register for the event, free of charge visit www.energynowexpo.co.uk. Or for more information about the event, call 01293 854 405.

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| Energy

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November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Buildings

Search on for RIDBA Ltd East Anglian success Build UK is set to recruit a new manager for the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association RIDBA. he search is now on for a pack leader for the agricultural building watchdog RIDBA Ltd (the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association).

It has been brought about by the retirement next year of national secretary Tony Hutchinson who has held the post for 16 years and was the driver behind its evolution in the past five years from a small trade association with just 75 members to almost 200.

This situation prompted a review of its future format and function and after a sub-committee reviewed how other trade associations are managed it recommended that RIDBA’s secretariat be managed by Build UK, the newly-merged National Specialist Contractors Council and UK Contractors Group.

Build UK represents 27 of the industry’s largest main contractors and 40 leading trade associations representing over 11,500 specialist contractors and is currently providing the secretariat for four other organisations.

At an Extraordinary General Meeting on October 6th RIDBA Ltd members (typically steel and timber frame manufacturers) agreed Build UK can employ a dedicated trade association manager to run RIDBA, supported by the rest of the Build UK team as required.

Tony Hutchinson said: “I am delighted that RIDBA Ltd has decided to contract with Build UK Ltd to provide their secretariat and am confident they will help RIDBA Ltd to increase its membership and improve the quality of its service to members.”

With Tony at the administrative helm, RIDBA has most notably helped its members through the new CE Marking regulations which

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made it a criminal offense after July 2014 to supply structural steel that did not meet the new criteria.

It did this by linking up with regulatory body BM TRADA to give its members preferential access to guidance manuals and training which has markedly reduced their costs in meeting the requirements, costs which they could have chosen to pass onto their farmer clients.

It also more recently warned farmers that under the new CDM (Construction Design and Management) Regulations, which came into force in April this year, they are now the ones responsible for being satisfied that the building contractors they appoint will allocate adequate resources to health and safety.

The review of other trade associations also revealed that many were incorporated and most did not pay tax on any surpluses they made from servicing members. Therefore, the EGM also agreed that RIDBA becomes a company limited by guarantee, with a board of directors rather than a council, and Articles of Association rather than a Constitution.

As part of these changes RIDBA’s membership categories will evolve to include two levels of corporate and associate membership, for frame and nonframe manufacturers respectively, with less and more than six employees.

A RIDBA statement said: “If we are to grow our membership, and more importantly seek to deliver the additional services requested, we needed to develop our administrative function. With Build UK's contacts in all the key Government departments and its experience of representing contractors we can have more influence on Government action in these areas.”

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A. C. Bacon Engineering is a well-established family firm that has been providing farm buildings in East Anglia for over 50 years. he key to their success and level of repeat business is down to the high quality of product and service they deliver at competitive prices.

Since 1961 they have produced an enviable list of very satisfied customers and a reputation that is second to none.

A. C. Bacon Engineering is a proud holder of the Royal Warrant of Appointment as a tradesman to The Queen for the manufacture of steel-framed buildings.

Extensive in-house production contributes to achieving the quality and flexibility that delivers projects on time to the required high standards of CE marking.

Operations include state-of-theart cutting, drilling, welding, shot-blasting & painting.

Services offered include initial consultation, planning assistance, design, production

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and site installation of steelwork, cladding, grain walling and doors.

Membership of RIDBA & BCSA provides assurance of competence and financial standing. They directly employ an in-house Health & Safety Officer, leading to an exceptional safety record.

Customers say that they can rely upon the A. C. Bacon team to be dependable, proactive, attentive and genuinely good people to work with.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

LED lighting: More natural light for livestock and work force With over 25 years experience in the industry, led specialist Lojer Lighting is launching its new range LED battens to the UK market. Highly efficient and robust, the British designed fittings provide a more natural lighting whilst saving up to 60% in electricity and carbon consumption. he professional grade Luminaire range primarily consists of four LED battens which vary in size and intensity, all meeting required British quality and safety standards. The range is designed for quick and easy fitting in order to save time and installation costs

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and includes a five year warranty, also technical advice on lighting design and layout is available.

Waterproof and flame resistant, the battens can be used in a variety of demanding applications, from farm buildings and stables to cold rooms and warehouses, giving a superior light output at all temperatures. MD of Lojer Products, Jeremy Cottam,

comments: With such a wide range of benefits and promising a long and maintenance-free life, it comes as no surprise that the Luminaire range has proven to be such a success across Canadian farms ( most popular there is the high intensity 1.16 m version ) and more recently in Germany, where the products have also been well received. LED Luminaire is now a

trusted and effective replacement for energy hungry incandescent and fluorescent lighting, providing a much more natural light whilst reducing electricity bills and carbon emissions.

For further information on the extended range, visit http://lojerledluminaires.co.uk or contact Lojer Products direct on 01635 865882

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Fencing

Fast, accurate and exceptionally easy fence planning Leading fencing manufacturer Tornado Wire has developed two unique resources specifically for farmers and landowners. he Fencing App – Tornado Track – and the Tornado Fencing Configurator have been created to provide fast, accurate, and exceptionally easy fence planning. Both are simple to use and are available completely free of charge.

These resources take the guesswork out of fencing, ensuring you have accurately planned for the materials needed and the cost of the job.

You can plan your fencing project using just

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38 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

your smartphone, just your computer, or a combination of the two… …the two resources can either be operated together or independently from one another; the smartphone app can be used to walk around your field and physically plot the position of your fence line, or the whole process can be done from the comfort of home or the office with the user-friendly fencing configurator tool (with built-in mapping).

The tool instantly calculates your required materials depending on the animal type that you specify and gives recommendations on

additional options to improve the fence structure.

You can then send your project details to Tornado so an advisor can get in touch with you directly, or you can simply print off your project and material details list to a Tornado supplier.

Tornado Track is available for download on iPhone and Android smartphones; you can find it in the App Store or on Google Play, or via the Tornado Wire website (www.tornadowire.co.uk/fence-configurator) Fencing. Let’s go.

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| Fencing

M&M Timber fields its new fencing range Offering one of the most comprehensive ranges of agricultural fencing options on the market today, M&M Timber is bracing itself for record sales as the autumn fencing season gets under way. ay out front with a range that spans the ever popular AgriPost fencing for the budget conscious landowner to its highly acclaimed Agricised long life fencing timbers that come with a full 15 years inservice warranty, the company has a product for every requirement and has amassed stocks for fast delivery turnaround on anticipated orders over the coming months.

A Cut Above the Rest M&M Timber’s trademark Agricised machine rounded fencing timbers head up an industry phenomenon that has introduced new levels of economy in long lasting fencing solutions. It has also presented the company with a market leading product which, despite a flood of similar incised products from other suppliers, has achieved phenomenal growth over the last two years to become the established benchmark for long life fencing solutions across the UK. Prompted by further investment in plant and machinery at the M&M Timber’s Worcestershire manufacturing centre, the recent introduction of an Agricised peeled and pointed fencing timbers option has proved to be another industry ‘first’ for the Midlands based company. Machining the uniform Agricised incisions in the uneven surface of peeled timbers, necessary for the deep Tanalith E preservative penetration process, was made possible with newly acquired, technically advanced machinery and the skills of the inhouse technical experts.

Traditional peeled and pointed fencing timbers have been a favourite with the rural community for many years, but were increasingly being challenged by the economic benefits of the newly introduced extended life Agricised machine rounded timbers. Based on an initial installation of an example 500 metres of fencing, M&M Timber calculate that Agricised posts cost only 4% more than the non-Agricised industry standard equivalent. And, lasting three times longer, Agricised fencing will return a saving of around £4,500 in materials and labour over the 15 year service life warranty.

The 15 year written warranty package is available for both the machine rounded and peeled and pointed Agricised fencing timbers,

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together with an online registration scheme that allows customers to log their purchase on M&M Timber’s website for absolute peace of mind, another ‘first’ for this market leading company.

Prestige Option a Firm Favourite M&M Timber’s top of the range Prestige Scalloped Post and Rail Fencing now also benefits from the company’s standard no-quibble 15 year warranty.

Strong and elegant, with chamfered tops, the scalloped post and half round rail fencing is designed for ultimate good looks in any application and, says M&M Timber, it has long become an established firm favourite in equestrian circles for stud farms, ménage enclosures, paddocks and secure competition areas. Its aesthetic appeal has also contributed to its popularity in landscaping applications, particularly for perimeter fencing in public display areas at country parks and gardens, for fencing requirements at theme parks and even zoos.

The Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing system is highly recommended by professionals for its ease of installation and versatility, offering a choice of specially selected light or heavy weight timbers and two, three or four rail scalloped post options.

Now a part of the Forest Garden group, M&M Timber has introduced greater flexibility to its nationwide delivery service by reducing the minimum carriage paid order requirement across the product range. It also offers a just-in-time delivery option when required. And

to make bulk handling and on-site storage easier, fencing posts are bundled in a square format.

For more information, please

contact M&M Timber on 01299 832611 or see the website at www.mmtimber.co.uk.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Fencing

The science of 2Life - it really is down to the wire!

Our conversations with farmers and farm fencing contractors cover all sorts of topics, but they usually inevitably come around to the fact that end users always feel more confident using Estate®WIRE because it lasts so long. It has a strength and uniformity that means that once it’s up it stays up. And reliability and consistency are highly important on the UK’s farms. o we thought we would take a few minutes to explain how ArcelorMittal achieved such high quality wire fencing and exactly why Estate®WIRE is guaranteed to last longer than any other heavily galvanised wire made to BS EN 10244-2 Class A. ArcelorMittal is the world’s largest steel producer and it invests heavily in research and development, so 2Life is the fruit of much of that R&D.

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2Life lasts at least two times longer than heavily galvanised wire manufactured to BS EN10244-2 Class A Firstly, that ‘BS EN 10244-2 Class A’ bit that all the packaging carries. It’s there for a very good reason. It’s the British Standard to which wire for agricultural and

estate uses is manufactured.

ArcelorMittal maintains very high standards throughout its manufacturing sites across the globe and it produces high grade steel wire to world-beating standards, so we start off with a base wire product that already surpasses our rivals. But not content with that, we then make it better.

ArcelorMittal manufactures all of its agricultural fencing products from 2Life® wire - but the real science behind the longevity and reliability of 2Life is in the alloy coating which mixes zinc and aluminium, an alloy that gives double protection.

Why those two materials together? They work in harmony and deliver longevity. Zinc is an active, sacrificial and traditional anticorrosive coating while the aluminium provides passive protection. The aluminium slows down the sacrificial reaction of the zinc coating and increases the effective lifespan of the coating.

Under laboratory controlled Kersternich test conditions, after 20 cycles in a sulphuric atmosphere, ordinary heavily galvanised wire loses 96% of its original coating thickness with only 10g remaining. This compares to only 23% loss for 2Life® wire with 100g of coating still remaining scientific proof that 2Life lasts at least two times longer than heavily galvanised wire manufactured to BS EN10244-2 Class A. Obviously, this special alloy is far superior to the traditional heavily galvanised products that have zinc only coatings. This means that 2Life delivers: • A long-lasting smooth surface • Perfect adhesion • No peeling, no cracking • Remarkable concentricity of the coating • Extended lifetime, giving an obvious economic advantage • Environmentally sound products because 2Life does not use any harmful metals or plastic • 100% recyclable.

For the more demanding environmental conditions (such as coastal installations), we make 4Life® fencing products. This has an even greater zinc and aluminium coating weight to last at least four times as long as heavily galvanised wire to BS EN10244-2 Class A. So you see, for long-lasting fencing products it really is down to the wire!

How do you keep livestock in and predators out…?

Of course… its easy.. .you use electric fencing!

hen it comes to protecting your livestock it always pays to make the right decision on your boundaries.

Here, www.electricfencing.co.uk is the largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK. We have the most extensive and comprehensive range of Hotline electric fencing products to cover all of your electric fencing needs. Whether it is a new fence or an upgrade of your current

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fence you’ll find what you need in our online shop: poultry netting kits to keep Mr Fox out, three reel systems to keep sheep and pigs in, post and rail protection kits, and we also have a wide range of energises to suit most applications and all the electric fencing accessories you could possibly need.

If you are not sure what you need - contact us - we know electric fencing! Call: 01620 860058 or email info@electricfencing.co.uk

40 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Renewables

Mac Mackies & Absolute Mark Newall

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November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Security

Police take positive steps to tackle rural crime Leicestershire Police are taking action to improve relationships with rural communities. Last month, Leicestershire Police held a rural crime seminar to educate officers, staff and partner agencies on the challenges faced by rural communities. pproximately 60 people attended the event which included guest speakers from the National Farmers Union, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution, the Countryside Alliance and Young Farmers and Rural Volunteers.

The event was organised by PC Robert Cross, after it was identified that residents in rural areas can sometimes feel neglected when it came to policing in their area.

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“We want the communication between the rural public and police to be sustainable, regular and a two way process” To try to rectify this problem, officers have been working hard to identify ways to reach and communicate better with these communities.

After the seminar PC Cross said: “Effectively policing rural communities is an area that we have been looking into for some time.

“We want the communication between the rural public and police to be sustainable, regular and a two way process, resulting in effective and proactive policing and ultimately, a reduction in crime and increase in satisfaction.

“This seminar has been coordinated to support that vision and through improved collaborative working with rural partners we are hopeful of countywide improvement in the service we provide.”

In addition to the seminar, many neighbourhood policing areas have implemented a Fast Text system that farmers and rural business can sign up to so that they are notified about incidents in their area. This can include notifications of stolen good to look out for, suspicious vehicles, or warnings of other crimes that have happened in the area.

Leicestershire Police are also in the process of developing a force wide rural crime initiative to improve lines of communication with rural communities to be launched before the end of the year.

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| Christmas Gifts Peckingham Palace A house fit for a queen! Made exclusively by Flyte so Fancy for the British Hen Welfare Trust, this hen house has been designed with your ex-bat hens in mind. A donation from each house sold will be made to the charity.

Price start from £496 Chicken Swing The Chicken Swing, your coop would be incomplete without one.

Price: £24.99 (including postage)

Christmas gift ideas for the coming holiday Sometimes, it’s just too hard to think about what to get friends and family as a Christmas treat.

Here a few ideas... he British Hen Welfare Trust pull out all the stops when trying to re-home excommercial laying hens.

Funds raised from the Trust’s shop are directed towards this re-homing activity which transforms the lives of former commercial laying hens, whilst helping them to continue their positive

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campaigning and educational work, promoting hen welfare and the British egg industry.

Visit their website for more gift ideas and ways to make a donation and help save more hens at http://www.bhwt.org.uk/top ics/donate/ Looking at the lighter side of the holidays, how about a book that will keep your nearest and dearest entertained...and swapping jokes down the pub...

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The Farming Joke Book

by John Terry is a collection of around 500 jokes, stories and anecdotes priced at £7.95 and available from all good outlets, including amazon.co.uk Of course, often the perfect gift is right under your nose - look no further than a 12 month subscription to Farming Monthly magazine.

Twelve monthly editions delivered direct to your

door for just £18.00 there’s no excuse not to!

Hurry though subscription costs are increasing soon...

Visit our website to get your subscription now!

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Machinery

Blackwood Chainsaws Blackwood, Gwent T: 01495 226 657 www.blackwoodchainsaws.co.uk

Mawsley Machinery Brixworth, Northampton T: 01604 880621 www.mawsley.com

DM Chainsaws Arundel, West Sussex T: 01902 798771 www.dmchainsaws.co.uk

World of Power Buxton, Derbyshire T: 01298 213101 www.worldofpower.co.uk

Forest Park & Garden Pontypridd, Glamorgan T: 01443 230000 www.fpandg.com

Vale Gardens Ltd Evesham, Worcestershire T: 01386 831000 www.valegardens.co.uk

Charles H Hill Ltd Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire T: 01526 388281 www.charleshhill.co.uk

Briants of Risborough Ltd Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire T: 01844 343663 www.briantsltd.co.uk

Portreath Garden Machinery Redruth, Cornwall T: 01209 843180 www.portreathgardenmachinery.co.uk

Express Mowers Ltd Stourbridge, West Midlands T: 01384 443499 www.expressmowers.net

44 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Machinery

Kubota has the Vision with new Limited Edition Grand X Series Kubota UK is helping its customers gear up for winter with the launch of its new ‘Vision’ campaign – a limited edition upgrade available on its high performance M128GX-II and M135GX-II agricultural tractors. unning until the 31st December 2015, Kubota’s promotion now means that with any new purchase of an M128GX-II or M135GX-II model, customers receive a Vision upgrade pack (worth over £1000).

The Vision pack includes enhanced LED work lights, enhanced LED driving lights, twin beacons and rear mudguard extensions, enhancing the product in readiness for the winter season.

Rob Edwards, business development manager for Kubota Agriculture, commented: “The launch of this limited edition campaign is all about adding value to our product and service proposition, both to our dealer network and their end-user customers.

“We know it's a challenging market out there currently.

However, despite this, I am

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pleased that our MGX-II Series is going from strength to strength.

We believe that the introduction of our new Vision campaign will further help our dealers increase sales opportunities for this range of high performance farm tractors.”

In addition to the Vision upgrade pack, end-users will also receive a special edition drivers kit with their purchase of an M128GXII or M135GX-II tractor, which consists of a Kubota branded holdall, body warmer, flask, hat, pen and notepad.

Powered by a 6.1l Kubota engine, the M128GX-II and M135GX-II feature an advanced turbo charged 4 cylinder Kubota CRS diesel engine that is designed for greater efficiency, whilst still providing sufficient torque and power.

Delivering maximum performance and low emissions, both tractors combine the Diesel

Oxidation Catalyst, Diesel Particulate Filter muffler and Exhaust Gas Recirculation to reduce harmful emissions and ensure complete Euro Stage IIIB compliance.

Equipped with Kubota’s IntelliShift 8 transmission, the tractors offer eight speeds and three range power shift and Auto Mode, delivering a total of 24 forward and 24 reverse speeds with minimal shift shock and power loss.

The Auto Mode sensitivity adjustment dial automatically shifts the transmission when there is a change in terrain or load depending on road conditions and the amount of acceleration needed. In addition a downshift of two gears occurs when the threepoint hitch is raised in Field Mode.

An optional fully integrated Front Loader is available that has been incorporated to provide better visibility and clearer sight lines to the buckets, whilst

individual flow control valves allow users to control the oil flow rate of auxiliary hydraulic valves and work more efficiently at optimum speeds.

The MGX hydraulic capabilities provide an impressive lifting force and oil flow for many implements required for today’s farming tasks.

An unload valve also minimises loss to hydraulic pressure so that greater power can be attained during PTO operations when the 3-point hitch is not being used.

All these machines come with a five-year extended warranty package called Kubota Care and a range of finance packages through Kubota Finance.

For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the groundcare and agriculture sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Machinery

John Deere celebrate John Deere, its partner com pa and 10 silver medals at this nies and service providers are being month’s Agritechnica fair in Hannover, agricultural equipment show .

he large number of awards is a result of the company’s continuing high investment into research and development,” says Chris Wigger, John Deere’s Region 2 vice-preside nt sales & marketing. “As the agri cultural industry moves towards more integrat ed technology, our award-winning intelligent solutions clearly demonstrate John Deere’s com mitment to system openness and our willi ngness to collaborate with partners, to the benefit of farmers and contractors.”

The DLG awards include hard ware solutions for machinery and components as well as precision farming software solu tions for machine and logistics optimisa tion and for agricultural decision support.

In addition to the awards, John Deere has rece ntly announced a raft of new products and Farm Sight precision farming technologies that com e under the

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MyJohnDeere.com umbrella, including: • 9RX Series four-track trac tors • 6M & 6R Series tractors • R Series front loaders • T- & W-Series combine harv esters • High hp 8000 Series selfpropelled forage harvesters • TMC triple front & rear mow er-conditioner • L1533 large square baler • B-Wrap storage system for 800 and 900 Series variable chamber bale rs • PowrSpray system for high specification R900i Series trailed sprayers • Wireless Data Transfer (WD T) and Mobile Data Transfer (MDT) • MyJobConnect job manage men • Manure Sensing system usin t tool g HarvestLab near-infrared (NIR) sensor tech nology John Deere’s first-ever four-trac k tractor will be making its UK show debut at CropTec in November, before being shown at LAMMA in

46 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

January. The new flagship 962 0RX model on display is the biggest tracked tractor in the John Deere line-up.

The 9RX range is designed to provide superior power, durability and improved ride quality, especially when handling large implements.

Features include a 620hp Stag e IV 15-litre Cummins QSX engine, e18 tran smission with Efficiency Manager, articulated steering, cab suspension and optional Acti ve Command Steering (ACS), for improved manoeuvrability in the field, as well as fully integrat ed AutoTrac guidance and JDLink Connec t information management systems.

The 9RX range is designed to provide superior power, durability and improved ride

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| Machinery

Contact your local dealer AGRICULTURAL MACHINE RY P Tuckwell Ltd (Ardleigh) Essex Telephone 01206 230283, Vis it www.tuckwell.co.uk P Tuckwell Ltd (Worlingw orth) Suffolk Telephone 01728 628325, Vis it www.tuckwell.co.uk P Tuckwell Ltd (Dunmow) Essex Telephone 01371 875751, Vis it www.tuckwell.co.uk P Tuckwell Ltd (Cromer) Her tforshire Telephone 01438 861257, Vis it www.tuckwell.co.uk P Tuckwell Ltd (Maulden) Bedfordshire Telephone 01525 405848, Vis it www.tuckwell.co.uk Ripon Farm Services (Keigh ley) West Yorkshire Telephone 01535 632661, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m Ripon Farm Services (Ripon) North Yorkshire Telephone 01765 692255, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m

Ripon Farm Services (Stock ton) County Durham Telephone 01740 630254, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m Ripon Farm Services (Tadca ster) North Yorkshire Telephone 01937 835454, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m Ripon Farm Services (Darrin gton) Pontefract Telephone 01977 795241, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m Ripon Farm Services (Ottrin gham) Hull Telephone 01964 622351, Vis it www.riponfarmservices.co m GROUNDCARE MACHINERY A J & R Scambler & Sons Ltd , Cambridgeshire Telephone 01954 718484, Vis it www.compactmachinery.co m

record medal haul presented with a record 3 go ld Germany, the world’s larges t quality, especially when handlin g large implements. The large, robust undercarriage features a positive-drive track system that effectively delivers more pow er to the ground.

This is ideal for heavy draft app lications such as cultivating, ploughing, discing and ripping, subsoiling and large-scale drill ing applications.

For more details of the latest John Deere tractors and other new product developments, contact your loca l dealer or call Freefone 0800 085 2522.

You can also visit the John Deere website at www.johndeere.co.uk, and the company’s UK & Ireland Facebook and YouT ube pages at www.facebook.com/JohnDee re and www.youtube.com/user/JohnD eereUKIE

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November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Machinery

Featured Dealers:

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

48 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

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| Machinery

New Holland to demonstrate latest PLM technologies at CropTec New Holland’s PLM products to be showcased at CropTec 2015 on 24-25 November at the East of England Showground. ew Holland will be bringing its Precision Land Management (PLM) technologies to CropTec 2015 on 24-25 November and visitors will have the chance to view demonstrations of several of its auto guidance products.

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New Holland’s PLM products offer cutting-edge solutions John Downes, New Holland’s PLM product specialist, says: “Precision farming technologies are revolutionising agriculture.

They are becoming an essential tool for many farmers as they strive to reduce input cost, improve yields, and increase efficiencies. New Holland’s PLM products offer cutting-edge solutions to meet a wide range of

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crop management needs and budgets. Croptec provides us with the perfect opportunity to showcase our innovative PLM technologies.”

New Holland’s extensive PLM offering includes displays, guidance and telematics systems, mapping software, crop input control systems and data management software.

Demonstrations of New Holland’s EZ-Pilot™ assisted steering system; PLM™ Mapping software; a range of displays; and the new PLM™ RTK Connect correction service for accurate navigation will take place on the company’s stand throughout the event.

For more information about New Holland’s PLM technology visit: http://agriculture.newholland.com/us /en/PLM/Pages/PLM_Overview.aspx

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Machinery

Greater spec, flexibility and new spreading options for XERION For arable farmers who are simply looking for a high horsepower draft tractor to pull rather than power machinery, CLAAS is now able to offer the XERION in a specification to meet their needs. t the same time, the range of specialist equipment designed specifically for use with the XERION has also increased with the introduction of a new higher capacity, light weight vacuum tank system from SGT and a completely new solids spreader body from Tebbe.

Currently there are over 100 XERIONs operating in the UK. Of these, a number being used by contractors for a wide range of operations or as specialist tanker units, but the large majority are to being used just as high horsepower cultivations tractors.

The XERION range comprises

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three models – the XERION 4000, which has a maximum power output of 435hp, the XERION 4500 (max power 490hp) and the XERION 5000 (max power 530hp).

All three models are available with either a centrally positioned fixed cab (TRAC) or with the unique rotating cab (TRAC VC) for use with equipment such as triple mowers. In addition, a SADDLE TRAC version of the XERION 4000 is also available, where the cab is located right at the front leaving a large carrying area for tanks, etc..

For cultivations, the main requirement of a tractor is that it provides optimum power efficiency and the transfer of that power to the ground for maximum traction and pulling power.

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In this respect, the XERION with its four equal sized wheels and CVT transmission is ideally suited.

However it is rare that a tractor this size will be used for PTO work or to carry front-mounted equipment, so to better meet the needs of arable farmers looking for a straightforward high powered draft tractor, it is now possible to specify the XERION without features such as the PTO or front linkage.

As standard, all three XERION models come with an Eccom 5.0 CVT transmission which provides 50km/h forwards but a reduced speed in reverse. For the TRAC VC and others who want the same forward and reverse speed, there is also the option of the Eccom 4.5 CVT transmission, which has 50km/h reverse speed. Other options include an auxiliary output for high flow hydraulics, required for high output slurry tankers.

If the XERION is unlikely to be used with front-mounted equipment, it is now possible to specify it without a front-linkage and to replace this with a new weight block. This uses the same 400kg wafer weights that can be added to the back of the XERION, so the ability to add up to 7.0 tonnes of extra weight and to balance the tractor for optimum traction is maintained.

“When you compare the XERION to a similar sized tractor with a powershift transmission, the biggest benefits are comfort and

the massive fuel saving you get from the XERION’s CVT transmission,” explains CLAAS Tractor product manager Alastair McCallum. “The four equal sized wheels offer massive traction and we have also seen quite a number of farmers moving away from tracks because of headland damage, but also as farms get bigger and machinery has to be moved over greater distance, the XERION is far quicker and better on the road.”

For cultivations, the main requirement of a tractor is that it provides optimum power efficiency and the transfer of that power to the ground “There is also the added bonus that the XERION is suited to high torque applications which allows heavy duty injector/incorporating implements to be used on the rear, which is particularly important when being used with the SGT tanker system.”

“By now being able to specify the XERION more specifically to a customer’s needs, there is also a potential cost saving of up to £14,340 over the current recommended list price of £265,150.”

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| Machinery

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| Tyres

Saracens Tyres first in North Wales to earn Michelin’s seal of approval for farm tyres Saracens Tyres has become the first agricultural tyre dealer in North Wales to join Michelin’s Exelagri dealer partnership programme. This sees the company earn its place alongside nearly 800 farm tyre specialists selected by Michelin across Europe. xelagri status gives farmers and contractors the peace of mind of knowing that their local tyre dealer has all the expertise required to ensure they achieve the maximum performance from their agricultural tyres.

Accreditation to the network follows an independent 48-point quality audit which looks at all aspects of the dealer’s operations, from the levels of staff training and the cleanliness of its workshops, to equipment standards and the quality of advice given to farmers and contractors.

Owain Roberts, Director of Saracens Tyres, says: “Securing our spot within the growing Exelagri dealer network was an important goal for our business this year. It’s further proof, from one of the world’s biggest brands, that when it comes to fitting and servicing agricultural tyres, we are amongst the best in our field.”

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“Saracens Tyres, like all dealers in the network, will be independently re-assessed on a frequent basis to guarantee it continually meets the stringent standards required” By joining the Michelin Exelagri dealer partnership programme, Saracens Tyres is committed to offering an extensive range of Michelin agricultural tyres and services, wheel alignment checks, quality tyre repairs and 24/7 breakdown support. Additionally, Exelagri dealers offer a tyre delivery service to customers, backed up by expert aftersales support and advice.

Mike Lawton, Commercial Director of Michelin’s agricultural tyre division, explains: “I’m delighted to welcome Saracens Tyres to the Exelagri dealer network. This is a testament to the hard work that our Account Manager, Phil Barker, has personally done with Owain to build

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the business with a clear objective of joining the programme. I take great pleasure in seeing those plans come to fruition.

“Our Exelagri programme ensures that farmers, contractors and machinery dealerships will receive a superior service every time they visit one of our accredited centres. Saracens Tyres, like all dealers in the network, will be independently re-assessed on a frequent basis to guarantee it continually meets the stringent standards required.”

Created in 2004, the Michelin Exelagri dealer network has 45 members situated throughout the UK and Ireland. As part of the programme Michelin commits to providing the dealer with tools and services such as City and Guild accredited training courses.

Saracens Tyres has supported the agricultural industry with tyre advice, maintenance and fitment since 1970. It operates within an 80 mile radius of its three branches in Cerrig, Bala and Pwllheli, tank Contaminated employing six technicians certified for agricultural work and running three mobile service vans. It also offers a 24/7 breakdown service to support farmers during intensive work periods, such as harvest.

The dealer also holds Michelin Certified Centre status, secured on the back of its expertise in the car, 4x4 and van tyre market.

For more information about the range of Michelin farm tyres available visit www.michelinagricultural-tyres.co.uk

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| Feature

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| Tyres

BKT Agrimax Sirio The new tyre lineup for high-performance tractors transporting heavy loads even at high speed up to 70 km/h.

inor environmental impact, optimum lateral stability and top riding comfort - these are just a few of the particular features of the new BKT high-speed tyre Agrimax Sirio.

Specially designed for highperformance tractors, the tyre is ideal for heavy towing operations with extremely heavy loads at high speed up to 70 km/h.

Definitively innovative and thanks to its speed index class E, Agrimax Sirio allows to pull heavy loads. The new sidewall compound and the enhanced bead reduce the heat generated in the tire due to the particular stress at high speed.

The new tyre is eco-friendly. The combination of a homogeneous footprint on the ground, i.e. a major contact area, and a minor rolling resistance favors a minor fuel consumption reducing hence both the environmental impact and

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the costs for the farming business.

Thanks to the special casing and its six polyester belts, Agrimax Sirio has been developed to guarantee outstanding stability and optimum stand both on the road and in the fields.

Agrimax Sirio also stands for comfort: the high sidewall flexibility offers extraordinary riding comfort at any operating condition.

Specially designed for high performance tractors, the tyre is ideal for heavy towing operations with extremely heavy loads at high speed up to 70 km/h.

The new Agrimax Sirio tyre is already available on the market in five sizes: 540/65 R 30, IF 600/70 R 30, 540/65 R 34, 540/65 R 38 and 710/70 R 38.

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| Tyres

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November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 55

| ATV

Honda’s TRX420FA debuts on S4C Fferm Ffactor 2015 series Honda were once again the supplier for S4C’s TV series ‘Fferm Ffactor – Brwydr y Ffermwyr’ – providing the competition with industry-leading ATV’s as a host of teams looked to be crowned the winners of this years ‘Battle of the Farmers’. he seven teams competed to complete an agricultural-based course as one component of their trails as they duked it out in the ultimate farming challenge, now running into its seventh year.

Contestants’ skills were put to the test against the clock and in front of a bumper crowd at the Royal Welsh Show in Builth Wells over the weekend of July 20-23.

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ATVs are one of the most indispensable tools on the farm The teams’ other tasks ranged from sheep shearing, to driving a tractor; from veterinary tasks to forming a marketing plan - not forgetting of course having to face questions under the spotlight in the dreaded Chair challenge.

Honda supplied six TRX420FA ATV’s as well as helmets and safety equipment for the competition which were used by the teams in training and on the

Royal Welsh Showground.

The three best teams were then given the opportunity to go down to the wire and compete for the winners’ prize – a Honda TRX420FA of their own for a 6 month loan.

The TRX420FA offers classleading power, performance and efficiency with reliability that can be trusted. The contestants had the best possible equipment at their disposal to get the job done on the day and come out on top of the skills test at the showground.

The 420FA – the model specified by Fferm Ffactor’s producers for use in the competition – also incorporates Electric Power Steering (EPS), reducing effort for the rider’s comfort and offering unparalleled agility – key for successfully completing the competition’s skills test.

With its rugged next-generation styling, the Honda Fourtrax 420 series offers exceptional pulling power, all-weather easy starts and quick acceleration, delivered by a fuel-injected, liquid-cooled 420cc engine. It also features a beefy 5-

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speed gearbox. For stopping power to match, dual front hydraulic disc brakes with disc covers incorporate patented builtin scrapers that remove mud and snow from inside the front wheel.

Easy to maintain and handle, the Fourtrax 420 is fun to ride with all the reliability you would expect from a Honda ATV. Helen Wynn, coordinator of Fferm Ffactor 2015 said: “We are very grateful to Honda for providing us once more with their wonderful ATV’s and of course the amazing prize for the winners of the competition – the Honda TRX420FA.” Fferm Ffactor is to be broadcast on October 14 at 7.30pm on channel S4C. Neil Keeble, Senior Area

Manager - ATV & Marine for Honda UK said: “Honda (UK) are pleased to be supporting another season of the ever popular agricultural competition, Fferm Factor. We were delighted to be involved in this exciting series and witness the remarkable skills and wealth of talent the contestants portrayed at the Royal Welsh Showground.”

Honda (UK) offer a free EASI Rider Course® with every new Honda ATV at no cost. The EASI Rider Course is an interactive, hands-on learning experience that is both practical and enjoyable. As well as teaching safe riding techniques, the course covers safety clothing and protective equipment, pre-ride inspections, risk assessment and environmental issues.

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| ATV

Stubborn as a MULE: Kawasaki’s workhorse intends to remain farmers number one choice Hot off the ‘wheels’ of the launch of the brand new Kawasaki MULE PRO-DX and PRO-DXT, Farming Monthly spoke to Simon Riches, the Product Manager for ATV and MULE for Kawasaki. His role covers the whole of the Kawasaki Utility dealer network in the UK and Northern Ireland. started with Kawasaki Motors UK in 2000 and have been in my current role of Product Manager for around seven years. The Kawasaki Utility products were first introduced in the UK nearly 25 years ago and since then they have earned themselves a strong reputation and are often the ‘go-to’ for workers within the Agriculture and Gamekeeper sector – many of whom would find it difficult to be without such a vehicle now.”

In your opinion, why do you think the MULE has been so successful in the sector?

“The Kawasaki MULE has been the pioneer of Utility vehicles and one of the first in the market, the reliability and durability of this machine has grown over the years earning a very deserved reputation in the industry.”

How important is it to have a strong dealership network?

“All Kawasaki Utility dealers stock MULES from the top of the range Diesels to the petrol powered MULE 610 and MULE 600 models. All our authorised dealers can offer sales, parts and service meaning that customers can buy with confidence with the knowledge that they have the expertise to look after the product out in the field.”

Tell us more about the two new models - what's so special about them?

“The two new MULE PRO-DX and PRO-DXT are new from the ground up. They’re both fitted with 26" tyres and the 'independent suspension' and 'high ground

Simon Riches

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For more information

Contact your nearest dealer

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clearance' will enhance the smooth travel and comfort for the operator over undulating surfaces.

“Having hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels will give greater stopping power coupled with the low maintenance of the disc brakes makes for a strong combination. A new hi-torque liquid-cooled, three-cylinder diesel engine powers the MULE PRO and produces 24ps of power - plenty of power for the working market and transporting cargo.

“The cabin area has a clean, spacious design with a new multifunction display instrumentation also situated on the dashboard are switches for selectable 4wd, rear diff lock. Speed sensitive EPS (Electric Power Steering) is fitted as standard with a 'tilt' steering wheel to suit the operators driving position. The MULE is now fitted with half doors as standard which are there for the operator safety and comfort but for total cabin enclosure there are several cab options available which will suit all requirements.”

How important are machines like the MULE and how do they make life easier?

“The working market has now become dependent on this type of vehicle and is used for all kinds of jobs. The new PRO models run on red diesel – which is available on most farms. Not only does this make sense for the economics of running on red diesel, it’s easily accessible. MULEs have now become a favourite with all generations and with the bench seat to slide in and various cab options available it makes the working day more comfortable for all ages.

What's the future for utility products like this?

“The market has a strong demand for Utility vehicles and we’ve seen an increase of customers now turning more to the MULE type vehicles from traditional ATV's. This is partly due to the work load ability of the MULE, with safety and comfort also high on the list of importance operators are reassured knowing

that all MULES are fitted with a ROPS frame and lap belts and as mentioned the option to be in a vehicle fitted with a cab is far more appealing when your out in all weathers on the moors tending stock.”

Where do you see the development going?

“As always for Kawasaki UK, the trend will be to continue to produce good quality and reliable utility vehicles. The MULE has proved itself over the years not only as a cost effective vehicle but also an option which holds its residual value.”

For more information on the Utility range of vehicles from Kawasaki, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk

Ellis Dawe & Son Ltd Malvern, Worcestershire 01684 833235 www.ellisdawekawasaki.co.uk

CJ Keitch Engineering Honiton, Devon EX14 4LH 01404 891796 www.cjkeitch.co.uk

D H Wadsworth & Sons Malton: 01653 692244 Flockton: 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

Jim Price Machinery Ltd Craven Arms, Shropshire 01588 673746 www.jimpricemachinery.com

Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk

NICHOLSONS Stalham Eng Co Ltd Stalham, Norwich 01692 580513 www.stalhameng.co.uk

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 57

| ATV

Safety is EASI for Can-Am BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) is joining the drive towards improved All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) safety in the UK by partnering with the European All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (EASI®), a not for profit organisation tasked with delivering a programme of safety education, training and awareness for ATV and Side by Side Vehicle (SSV) operators in the UK. s a result, BRP will be able to offer consumers who purchase a new Can-Am utility ATV and SSV from one of its dealerships, a 50 per cent discount on EASI training and education courses nationwide.

EASI’s courses include an ATV rider and SSV driver training for all users including those who require it as part of their job. Group programmes, tailored to meet the

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specific needs and requirements of a company, are also available.

In addition, EASI provides ATV and SSV dealer education days, coaching qualifications for trekking and outdoor activity centre employees and a QVC Generic Loading Towing and Reversing (GLTR) module.

Paul Wood, BRP commercial representative UK and Ireland, says, “Promoting the safe and responsible use of ATVs and SSVs is one of BRP’s key corporate

responsibilities. The partnership we have agreed with EASI allows us to offer consumers and businesses access to high quality training and courses at preferential rates which will assist them in using an ATV or SSV whether it is for recreational or commercial use.”

Andy Heitman, CEO at EASI, adds: “With BRP providing direct access to the EASI training and

education programmes to its customers, it underlines the company’s commitment to ensure that operators of Can-Am products can enjoy a prolonged and safe user experience.”

Electric performance with style The first thing you notice when you drive a Polaris Ranger EV, the world’s first true electric 4 x 4 utility vehicle, is the silence. Then you can’t fail to be impressed by the acceleration and the sheer smoothness of the ride. hen Polaris first introduced the Ranger EV it set high standards for others to follow and the latest model in 2015 continues to innovate with enhanced styling and the addition of Pro-Fit accessory integration. The highly modular cab system offers a range of cab and windscreen options with high quality fit and finish and easy installation for superb ergonomics and refined comfort.

The Ranger EV is not wanting for space, there’s masses of it with the rear, tipping Dump Box and Lock and Ride facility to carry tools and equipment safely and securely. Suspension travel has been increased and the ondemand True All-Wheel Drive keeps you moving, automatically engaging all four wheels when you need more traction, reverting back to two-wheel drive when you don’t.

In 2WD the VersaTrac Turf Mode switch unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns that wont’ tear up the grass. Handling is nimble with a tight turning circle

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for great manoeuvrability.

A zero emissions vehicle that never needs any fuel and requires very little maintenance, the Ranger EV has a 30 hp electric motor from the 48 volt high efficiency ACinduction motor, for a top speed of 25 mph and towing capacity of 567 kg. It’s the ideal vehicle for

58 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

working in noise-sensitive areas, tending parks, around animals, inside barns, horticultural growing areas, amenity areas, golf courses and estates. Styled with a purpose, the new headlight shape allows for an enhanced 50w beam spread so that at dawn or dusk you can navigate storage buildings

more efficiently. At the end of the day the best way to test the abilities of the Ranger EV is to ask for a demonstration. It’s an exhilarating experience.

For more information visit www.polaris-britain.com or call 0800 915 6720

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Boris Johnson unveils new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV New jobs over next three years, investment in facilities, new vehicle sector technology skills. itsubishi Motors in the UK is honoured to announce that the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has launched the new Mitsubishi Outlander range at the company's global headquarters In Tokyo. The moment was shared with Mitsubishi Chairman and CEO Mr. Osamu Masuko, UK Managing Director Mr. Lance Bradley, senior company executives and staff.

The Mayor’s initiatives such as an ultra-low emission zone in London and his drive for more plug-in vehicles in the city have contributed to the success of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (plugin hybrid electric vehicle), encouraging the company to bring its new technology to the UK, attracting investment, skills and jobs into a vitally important emerging vehicle sector. The Outlander PHEV accounts for half of all plug-in vehicle sales in the UK, and as such the company views the UK as one of the most strategically significant markets in the world for its breakthrough ULEV (ultra-low emission vehicle) technologies.

The new model range will see more job opportunities and investment by Mitsubishi Motors in the UK. Around 400 new job opportunities have been created since Mitsubishi introduced the Outlander PHEV in 2014, and this will grow to more than 1,000 during the next three years with the new model. The company is also investing in training to take account of the

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technical skills and knowledge required in the newly emerging vehicle sector.

The new jobs include network sales people with specialist skills in ultra-low emission vehicle technology, additional people at the headquarters in the UK, and additional people to prepare the cars once they arrive at the final assembly area at Portbury, Bristol – a facility to which the company has now committed £48 million.

Mr. Osamu Masuko, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Chairman and CEO, said: 'We greatly appreciate the significant progress the Mayor's initiatives in London have made to encourage the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles. We are very proud that the Mayor has taken this opportunity to unveil our new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV here in Tokyo today.'

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a five-seat, four-wheel-drive SUV with ultra-low emissions and high MPG. It delivers a uniquely smooth driving experience, with seamless and continuous transition between hybrid and pure electric modes, to minimise emissions whether driving in the city or on the motorway. Most significantly, with a combined hybrid range of more than 540 miles, it has eliminated the ‘range anxiety’ associated with pure-electric vehicles.

That said, the Outlander’s 32-mile pure-electric range easily accommodates average daily driving distances, and it recharges on the move. The company's research shows that owners replenish

their batteries daily at home or at work, and in many cases totally avoid the need to visit the petrol station.

To drive, it feels very different to a conventional vehicle. Electric motors provide much quicker acceleration and dynamic performance yet the cabin space is virtually silent.Mr. Lance Bradley, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: 'The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, along with forward-looking and consistent Government policy on incentives, is creating a market for plugins that will ultimately set the UK apart in global terms by delivering the right balance of lowemission driving, value for money, economy and practicality. This new model is another bold step in that direction.'

The Government’s plug-in car grant enables Mitsubishi to offer the Outlander PHEV at the same price as the equivalent vehicle with a diesel engine. This has proven to be a significant motivation to buyers wanting to experience the new technology.

The Mitsubishi Outlander model series is now in its third generation. It pioneered the 'cross-over' vehicle design concept in 2001 and has sold 1.28 million units since.

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

AUGUST MOTORS Wiltshire 01722 622 633 www.augustmotors-isuzu.co.uk

SHELLY MOTORS Surrey 01372 540 140 www.shellymotors-isuzu.co.uk

YORK VAN CENTRE North Yorkshire 01904 275 211 www.yorkvancentre-isuzu.co.uk

ARCHIE MOSS Leicestershire 01530 553 785 www.archiemoss-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire 01205 449 762 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

MARK WEATHERHEAD LTD Cambridgeshire 01954 574 562 www.markweatherhead-isuzu.co.uk

BOB GERARD LTD Leicestershire 01162 149 052 www.bobgerard-isuzu.co.uk

GARLAND MOTORS Hampshire 01252 884 026 www.garland-isuzu.co.uk

HOLDCROFT ISUZU Staffordshire 01782 484 954 www.holdcroft-isuzu.co.uk

BURRELLS MOTOR GROUP South Yorkshire 01302 515 763 www.burrellsmotorgroup-isuzu.co.uk

JEFFRIES OF BACTON Suffolk 01449 424 758 www.jeffriesofbacton-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire 01673 799 393 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

LIFESTYLE EUROPE Kent 01892 629 140 www.lifestyleeurope-isuzu.co.uk

60 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Motors

Suzuki Vitara AllGrip - ready, willing....and pretty able too A fairly pretty contender in the small SUV/crossover segment that’s well equipped and a fairly decent drive to boot. uzuki has a history of producing small but hardy four wheel drive vehicles and the new Vitara does feel like a hardy beast. The designers clearly took some inspiration from the Land Rover Evoque, at the front end at least – and this provides the Vitara with a very pretty face, though in my opinion at least, they then lost some of that inspiration when working their way backwards – it's a little quirky looking from certain angles. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Our test vehicle was the the top of the range diesel model, Vitara DdiS AllGrip SZ5 and the £21,799 price tag included sat-nav, DAB radio, keyless entry and start, air-con, automatic lights (LED projector headlamps) with LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, part leather, part suede seats, rear parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and silver roof rails amongst other goodies. No scrimping on equipment here, though there were a couple of annoyances – the mirrors had to be folded in whilst the ignition was on and I couldn't find any way to remotely open the rear hatch (which was bizarre).

Inside, the story remains good on the whole.

The Vitara has a roomy interior with enough leg room for most people. With the optional sliding sunroof, taller rear passengers may struggle for headroom though.

Front seats are comfy and provide a good driving position. There's a centrally located touch screen 'infotainment' system which stands out from the otherwise minimalist central dash. A lot of controls are positioned on and around the steering wheel, making them easy

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to reach – once you've got used to the multitude of controls at your fingertips. Another slight anomaly here was that these don't seem to light up at night, making selections such as speaker control a little difficult in the dark – though again, perhaps I missed something here?

There's no escaping the hard, scratchy plastics used in the cabin though – manufacturers might get away with this on models some way down the price range but at £20,000+ there isn't really an excuse and I think that buyers expect more.

Boot space is adequate for a family shopping trip but if you are looking for a larger cargo area with the seats down, you'll find that they don't fold flat. There’s no ‘proper’ spare wheel either - a trend that is very much alive and well these days..

On the road We get many vehicles to test over the course of a year and there are some that you can just get straight into and drive. The Vitara is one of those – very easy to drive with no having to get used to it. And it tuns out that it's a peppy little number too with plenty of low down torque from the Fiat sourced 1.6l diesel engine. It's a bit noisy though unless you are cruising on the motorway – but around town, it just isn't that refined. That being said, in this guise the Vitara throws out little CO2 - 106g/km with the sixspeed manual transmission, or 111g/km for the ALLGRIP four-wheel drive model. Suzuki also quote 67.2mpg (combined) though as we all know, this should be taken with a healthy pinch of salt – expect early 50's which still isn't bad.

Steering is light but you do get some feedback from the wheel, something sadly lacking in many cars in recent times. The

suspension smooths out the pot-holes too, surprisingly well for this type of car. Though the Vitara is unlikely to be thrown off-road very much at all, it is comforting to know that the AllGrip 4wd system does a good job here.

There are 4 settings auto, sport, snow and lock – with each affecting how the Vitara performs.

Lock comes in especially useful should you get bogged down in a field for instance and require power to go to all 4 wheels. Descent control also becomes an option in this mode. You'll probably find yourself in Auto 2wd for most of the time, which saves on fuel and delivers traction when called on.

There is surprising little lean into corners for a taller vehicle like this and the Vitara delivers plenty of grip too. Those front seats provide a decent raised driving position ideal for around town driving.

Conclusion The Vitara is a decent looking contender in the smaller SUV/crossover sector and despite its shortcomings, has been quite a fun drive.

But although the SZ5 model boasts plenty of equipment, at £21,799 OTR it has ample competition. Reliability shouldn't really be an issue as this model takes tried and tested parts from the older model – and running costs should be relatively low. Suzuki also offer a number of fixed price servicing options too.

If you must have the diesel variant then be prepared for the agricultural soundtrack – though if you put plenty of miles under your belt then it would be the obvious choice.

Ideal for the country lanes and muddy tracks that might have to be negotiated for the school or shopping run, obviously this is no Defender.

But as a family tool, it does a great job.

Andrew Poulton, Editor

November 2015 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

Rare Range Rover convertible heads to auction A rare early Range Rover convertible conversion is due to be sold at Silverstone Auctions’ last auction of the year, The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale, on 14-15 November 2015. tarting life as a 1973 Range Rover ‘Suffix B’, the car was converted in the late Eighties by Special Vehicle Conversions, who specialise in bespoke convertible conversions for Range Rovers of the period.

The rare right-hand drive convertible has covered just 62,500 miles from new and having recently been restored to its original Special Vehicle Conversions specification, it will be sold at The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show auction with an estimate of £35,000 - £40,000.

The car was apparently won by the previous owner in a card game in the Nineties, who then stored it in a lock-up as he didn’t have space in

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his garages. The vendor heard of the story and sought to try and find the car again in 2014. After trying to locate the car and with the help of Land Registry records, it was uncovered in superb condition – with its undersealed chassis still in fine fettle.

Later that year, the car was treated to an eightmonth nut and bolt restoration costing £20,000, which included the recommission of its 3.5-litre V8 engine. The convertible conversion heads to The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale in superb condition, ready to be enjoyed by its next owner.

Arwel Richards, Classic Car Consignor at Silverstone Auctions spoke about the Range Rover and said, “This classic Range Rover

convertible conversion is a car worthy of the modern-day James Bond, but has a story akin to that of ‘007’ too. Not only does this convertible conversion have unique provenance, but it’s based on a truly superb early right-hand drive Range Rover ‘Suffix B’ and has covered a mere 62,500 miles – I doubt you’ll find one like this in the near future.

“With the recently launched Range Rover Evoque Convertible, it has become in vogue even more. It’s a real privilege to be entrusted with re-homing this very important car at the NEC Classic Motor Show Sale and I’m sure its new owner will love and cherish it, especially after its superb restoration.”

USED 4x4 55 TOYOTA HI-LUX 2.5 HL3 4X4 - 103 bhp - low miles - FSH.............................

59 NISSAN NAVARA 2.5 DCI tekna 4X4 DCB ......................................................

63 TOYOTA HI-LUX 2.5 HL2 4X4 D-4D DCB - 142 bhp - FSH ..............................

61 HI-LUX INVINCIBLE - 57k miles - Choice of 2 ................................................

14 X2 ISUZU D-MAX 2.5 TD DCB Utility 5D - 164 bhp - 3.5 tonne towing ..........

14 TOYOTA HI-LUX 2.5 ACTIVE 4X4 D-4D DCB - 140 bhp....................................

63 ISUZU D-MAX EIGER - 24k miles - 3 year warranty........................................

13 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 2.2 TD STATION WAGON 5 - high spec...................

13 TOYOTA HI-LUX 3.0 INVINCIBLE 4X4 D-4D DCB 170 bhp ..............................

63 ISUZU D-MAX 2.5 UTAH AUTO VISION ..........................................................

14 ISUZU D-MAX BLADE 4X4 AUTO - EX DEMO - 4 year warranty .....................

15 ISUZU D-MAX BLADE 4X4 DEMO - AUTO - SAT NAV.......................................

62 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

£9,995 NO VAT £10,995+VAT £13,495+VAT £14,495+VAT £16,195+VAT £16,495+VAT £16,895+VAT £16,995+VAT £17,695+VAT £19,995+VAT £20,995+VAT £23,999+VAT

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| Motors

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| Motors

Likes Land Rover

Kentdale Kendal

01497 842100, www.likes.hayonwye.landrover.co.uk

01539 814444, www.kentdale.kendal.landrover.co.uk

Guy Salmon Knutsford

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

01565 632525, www.guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

01205 449762, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Ashford

Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen

01233 506070, www.barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

01673 799393, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Canterbury

Conwy Land Rover

01227 475475, www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

01492 580000, www.conwy.landrover.co.uk

Ripon Land Rover

Stafford Land Rover

01765 646464, www.ripon.landrover.co.uk

01785 214140, www.stafford.landrover.co.uk

Cambrian Aberystwyth

Matford Land Rover

01970 624841, www.cambrian.aberystwyth.landrover.co.uk

01392 825 825, www.matford.exeter.landrover.co.uk

Hunters Norwich 01603 944836, www.hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

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

Lloyds Kelso 01573 224345, www.lloyd.kelso.landrover.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

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| Motors

New Ford Ranger continues ‘ARENACROSS’ partnership Ford has teamed up with leading European action sports and entertainment event ARENACROSS, to showcase the new Ford Ranger at venues across the UK. RENACROSS which features adrenaline-fuelled Motocross displays, kicked off on Saturday 17th October outside Wembley Stadium with an ‘Action Tour’. The Ford Ranger toured the country alongside ARENACROSS throughout October promoting the series ahead of the main tour in January next year.

Ford has be supplied ARENACROSS with three Rangers which will play a vital role in the transport of equipment used to

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stage each event when it commences next year.

The 2016 ARENACROSS tour starts on 2nd January at the Manchester Arena and then heads to Belfast, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow and Sheffield before finishing at Wembley Arena in London on 27th February.

Lisa Brankin, Ford of Britain marketing director, said: “The Ford Ranger is hugely versatile with great all-wheel-drive capability, bold design and cutting-edge technology. Its class-leading towing ability and expansive load space make it the perfect choice

for Motocross enthusiasts. With the new Ranger arriving in dealerships at the start of 2016, we are delighted to be able to demonstrate its capabilities at ARENACROSS.” Eco Ranger The new 2016 Ranger is the most fuel-efficient ever, and delivers reductions in fuel consumption of up to 17 per cent.

EPAS is now fitted as standard, and Auto-Start-Stop technology is now available across the range on all manual transmission vehicles,

together with revised final drive ratio options.

For the first time Ford will be offering the 3.2-litre TDCi 200PS six-speed auto powertrain on the Limited series, which accounts for more than 40 per cent of sales.

The Limited with 3.2-litre auto transmission starts at £25,721.

The new Ford Ranger also features a host of driver assistance technologies and advanced connectivity delivering comfort and convenience.

Porsche Macan GTS SUV Increased performance, uprated chassis, distinctive style. he new Macan GTS distinguishes itself with a driving experience that surpasses even that for which the Porsche compact SUV has become renowned. A reengineered chassis, 20 hp more power and uprated brakes are among the dynamic GTS attributes keen drivers will appreciate.

In terms of performance, the 360 hp petrol engine with 500 Nm of pulling power places the GTS between the Macan S and the Macan Turbo in the range line-up.

A more sporting state of tune has been applied to the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which also offers a 15mm lowered

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ride height. The 20-inch diameter RS Spyder design alloy wheels finished in matt black paint complete the dynamic focus of the GTS. Outstanding Porsche dynamic ability combined with characteristic day-to-day versatility are offered by the Macan GTS; 062 mph acceleration is possible in 5.2 secs, just 5.0 secs with the optional Sport Chrono package.

Top speed is 160 mph. This is balanced by fuel economy of up to 31.4 mpg Combined and CO2 emissions of 212 g/km.

The Macan GTS goes on sale in the UK and Ireland from 28 October, 2015, priced from £55,188 RRP.

66 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Motors

MTC Subaru

Central Motors

Cambridgeshire 01733 822 943 www.mtc-subaru.co.uk

Somerset 01460 601 492 www.centralmotors-subaru.co.uk

Perkins

Unity Leicester

Essex 01371 483 379 www.perkins-subaru.co.uk

Leicester 01162 149 060 www.unityleicester-subaru.co.uk

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| Motors

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| Motors

Tempting deals available on VW Amarok Contract Hire, Finance Lease or Personal Contract Plan there’s a deal available for everybody - but be quick.

Offers are available until 31 December 2015. olkswagen’s classleading pick-up has a range of competitive offers available this winter, making the off-road champion even more affordable for business and personal use.

The Amarok Trendline 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS is available to purchase on Contract Hire or Finance Lease from just £239 a

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month for business users, based on 36 months and 10,000 miles per year. For those wanting a higher spec model there are finance offers available across the whole model range.

Private buyers can take advantage of the Solutions Personal Contract Plan from £219 a month available over 36 months for the Amarok Trendline available with 4.9 per cent APR representative.

A vehicle that works hard on and off the road, the Volkswagen Amarok delivers a car-like comfort with 4MOTION four-wheel drive, and is available in three standard specifications – Startline, Trendline and Highline.

Volkswagen’s high-spec desert inspired limited edition, the Amarok Atacama, is packed full of style and functional upgrades, and

comes with a 2.0-litre BiTDI 180 PS diesel engine. A Personal Contract Plan is also available on the limited edition vehicle.

Full details of the finance packages and accompanying terms and conditions are available from www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk or by contacting your local Volkswagen Van Centre.

enough to cope with a wide variety of caravans, as this Motorhome and Caravan Show test proved.

“We were delighted to be official towcar provider for the Motorhome and Caravan Show, and to provide a fleet of Grand Cherokees for this important event,” says Damien Dally, head of brand, Jeep UK. “Jeep is probably best-known as the company that produces

fantastic four wheel drive SUVs, but our cars also make outstanding towing vehicles, as we were be happy to demonstrate at the show.”

The Jeep Grand Cherokee range starts at £38,895 OTR for the 3.0 CRD V6 Laredo, rising to £65,995 OTR for the high performance 6.4 HEMI SRT.

Jeep delighted to have been official towcar provider to Motorhome and Caravan Show 2015 It’s known for its unbeatable qualities on and off-road, but its models also make superb towcars. And Jeep demonstrated this after being announced official towcar provider for this year’s Motorhome and Caravan Show. eep marked the official sponsorship of the popular show in a big way: inside the NEC, Birmingham exhibition hall the brand had a show stand displaying the latest Renegade, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee 4x4 models.

Outside the building, there was an

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even greater presence. A hospitality unit and six Jeep Grand Cherokees awaited, for any Caravan Club member who wished to test drive the awardwinning SUV with a caravan fixed behind it.

With 247bhp available from its 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s 3500kg towing capacity is more than

70 | Farming Monthly | November 2015

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| Motors

Heneage Motor Co Lincolnshire Tel. 01472 729980

Haven Motor Holdings Ltd Sussex Tel: 01403 891700

Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014

www.heneagegrimsby.co.uk

www.havenmotors.co.uk

www.bathhonda.co.uk

Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782

Winchester Motor Co. Hampshire Tel: 01962 866331

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.mtcars.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

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