October 2015 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2015

Inside this issue...

Arable | Crop breeding: Is it all in the genes?

Grain | Get to know the quality of your grain

Sheep

Education

Inspirational farmers recognised at prestigious Education Awards |

On Topic

Use extra rodent control power with care, farmers advised |

| Healthy lambs will finish well this Autumn

Animal Health

| Parasites: The invisible threat to dairy fertility and performance Also Inside: Buildings | Security | Machinery | Tyres | SALTEX | Forestry | ATV | Motors

Contents

10

55

October 2015

26 12

FMN

Features

FMN

Regulars

10 15 17 20 24 42 46 62

Animal Health

06 12 34 52 64 65

News

Parasites - the invisible threat to dairy performance

Sheep Why a yard?

Buildings Changes afoot at RIDBA

Grain Latest developments

Arable Including CropTec details, potatoes & more

Education Inspirational farmers, Countryside Classroom...

SALTEX

Catch up on the news that matters

On Topic Use Extra rodent control power with care

Energy Biomass, biogas, wind & solar news

Machinery Midlands Machinery Show & other news

ATV Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Polaris...news

Motors Latest motors news

NEXT MONTH

Show preview and news

Slurry handling

Tyres Impressive ATG innovations at Agritechnica We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or something you want to get off your chest? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2015.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

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| News

Wear your wellies with pride for

British farmers Farming charity R.A.B.I wants people to pull on their wellies and make a splash for those in the industry who are struggling financially. he Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I) is staging its Welly Week campaign from Saturday October 31 to Sunday November 8, to highlight the charity’s work and raise funds for those in the farming community in financial difficulty.

R.A.B.I Corporate Development Manager Suzy Deeley said: “With falling prices across various sectors, it has been a tough year for many in the farming world.

Welly Week is a chance for the public to show solidarity with British farmers, be that on a farm, in an office or down the pub.”

R.A.B.I is urging individuals,

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families, schools, clubs, colleges and businesses to get involved with their autumn campaign and create an event around the humble welly, which came into being when the Duke of Wellington ordered his shoemaker to modify his boots to provide some protection to his knees during battle.

Suzy added: “If the shoe fits, just do it! Welly discos, sky dives, tractor pulls, and welly wanging competitions are all fundraisers that have been held in the past, along with ‘wellies to work’ days.

“We want people to have some fun, whilst remembering there are many within the farming sector who desperately need our support to get through what could be a tough winter.”

06 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

Last year, R.A.B.I gave out close to £2m in grants, including more than £297k to working farmers.

This year, to date, the 155-year-old charity has paid out more than £1m in grants, contributing over £89k towards clearing domestic utility bills.

Suzy Deeley added: “Farmers don’t want special treatment. All they want is a fair price for a more than fair product and to be able to make a living from what they love doing most – which is farming.”

Follow the Welly Week campaign using #wellyweek2015 and tweet details of your event to @RABIcharity. For a free Welly Week fundraising pack contact Beth Steiner on 01865 811581 or email beth.steiner@rabi.org.uk

“We want people to have some fun, whilst remembering there are many within the farming sector who desperately need our support”

Thanks to the generosity of Gumleaf and NEMi you can win Gumleaf wellies and NEMi branded fleeces every day from November 2-6 by entering R.A.B.I’s Welly Week competition.

For details, go to Twitter.com/rabicharity, Facebook.com/rabicharity1 or www.rabi.org.uk/welly-week-2015

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Euro exchange rate set M&M Timber’s Agricised for 2015 Basic Payment Scheme Peeled & Pointed range payments raises the stakes Managing Director Nigel Poyner

Hailed as one of the decade’s most significant advancements in agricultural fencing technology, M&M Timber’s newly introduced Agricised Peeled and Pointed Stakes are fast gaining popularity with the more traditional farming community and could soon become one of the company’s top selling products. aving made a calculated decision to introduce an Agricised option of its long running peeled and pointed fencing range, the new addition is already bringing in sales that far exceeded expectations.

Having undergone considerable research and technological development, M&M Timber’s trademark Agricised process has become the benchmark for long life fencing solutions across the UK. Now, only two years since the launch of its machine rounded Agricised fencing timbers, the company has seen continual growth in its UK market standing, despite a flood of similar incised products from other suppliers.

Against this background of success, it wasn’t long before the company’s technical development team turned its attention to introducing a peeled and pointed fencing option for the agricultural sector, a potentially huge market for extended life fencing that would be welcomed by farmers and landowners throughout the UK. Further investment in plant and machinery at the company’s Midlands manufacturing centre has prompted the introduction of the Agricised peeled and pointed fencing timbers and presented M&M Timber with another industry ‘first’ and the beginning of yet another success story. Machining the uniform Agricised incisions in the uneven surface of peeled timbers, necessary for the deep Tanalith E preservative penetration process, presented many production challenges, but was made possible with newly acquired, technically advanced machinery.

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

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timbers. Based on an initial installation of an example 500 metres of fencing, Agricised posts cost only a fraction more than the non-Agricised industry standard equivalent, say M&M Timber. And, lasting three times longer, Agricised fencing will return a saving of around £4,500 in materials and labour over the warranted 5 year life span.

Noted for its product innovation, M&M Timber has now raised the stakes in what will clearly become an increasingly competitive market.

Says Managing Director Nigel Poyner, “Our decision to invest in Agricised peeled and pointed fencing timbers follows some lengthy discussions with the farming community, and in particular with those who said they prefer the more rustic look of peeled and pointed to the smooth machined round timbers. Offering the Agricised process with both options opens up the market sector with a choice for every landowner’s need, with the added benefits of long term cost savings in extended life fencing.”

M&M Timber offers a 15 year written warranty package on both its machined round and peeled and pointed Agricised fencing timbers with customer online registration, another ‘first’ for this market leading company as it strives to always keep one step ahead of the competition. Now a part of the Forest Garden group, the company has also looked at introducing more flexibility to its nationwide delivery service by reducing the minimum carriage paid order requirement to just five packs. It can also offer a just-intime delivery option when required. And to make bulk handling and storage easier, the fencing posts are bundled in a square format.

For more information please contact M&M Timber on 01299 832 611 or see the website at www.mmtimber.co.uk

The Euro exchange rate has been set for calculating 2015 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments.

PS payments for England are set in Euros and then converted into sterling and the rate, an average of the European Central Bank exchange rates set in September, will be €1 = £0.73129 The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will make full payments on BPS claims from December and as early as possible in the payment window, with the majority in December and the vast majority by the end of January.

The RPA makes all payments directly into bank accounts by

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BACS transfer.

The previous year’s exchange rates for the old Single Payment Scheme are below. These rates were set using the European Central Bank single day exchange rate as at 30 September.

2014 €1 = £0.77730 2013 €1 = £0.83605 2012 €1 = £0.79805 2011 €1 = £0.86665 2010 €1 = £0.85995 2009 €1 = £0.90930 2008 €1 = £0.79030 2007 €1 = £0.69680 2006 €1 = £0.67770 2005 €1 = £0.68195

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

Could you give a hen like Pumpkin a happy home this Autumn?

Thousands of lucky hens are soon to be given the opportunity to enjoy a free range retirement as loving pets. en welfare charity, the British Hen Welfare Trust, is holding re-homing days across the UK this October and hopes to find loving homes for ex-commercial hens just like Pumpkin, who would otherwise be destined for slaughter.

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Later this year the charity hopes to meet Dee, their soon to be 500,000th lucky hen - ‘D’ is 500,000 in roman numerals Jane Howorth, founder of the charity told us, “These endearing hens make amazing pets and soon adapt to family life, they are so full of character, you can’t help

but fall in love with their unique personalities - their tasty eggs are an added bonus. If you haven’t adopted hens before, it’s incredibly rewarding and the feelgood factor in saving their lives is simply unbeatable.”

We asked, can anyone keep hens? Jane explains, “Absolutely, if you have a back garden, then you can keep chickens - it’s that simple! We have between 7,000 and 8,000 adoptions each year, unfortunately we don’t have the resources to home visit each time, but we do take adopters through a careful process to ensure they know what they’re taking on and that we are happy with what facilities they can provide. I am so grateful to the many kind people out there who help our lovely hens.”

Take a look at the charities re-

08 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

homing dates coming up this month: 3 October • Didcot, Oxford • Coventry, West Midlands • Aunby, South Lincolnshire 4 October • Swinderby, North Lincolnshire 10 October • Bristol • Dorset, Sturminster Newton • Farrington Gurney, Somerset • Chulmleigh, Devon • Gwernogle, Wales • Monmouth - FULL *Call to be placed on a waiting list.

24 October • Bishop stopford, Hertfordshire • Great Totham, Essex • Godmanchester, Cambridge 26 October

• Great Totham, Essex The charity urges anyone interested in adopting a hen like Pumpkin, to call their re-homing team at Hen Central on 01884 860084 or visit their website www.bhwt.org.uk.

The British Hen Welfare Trust is a national charity that re-homes commercial laying hens, educates the public about how they can make a difference to hen welfare and encourages support for the British egg industry. Later this year the charity hopes to meet Dee, their soon to be 500,000th lucky hen - ‘D’ is 500,000 in roman numerals.

You can follow their Countdown to Dee here: www.bhwt.org.uk/countdowntodee

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| News

New figures reveal Tesco still failing at backing British lamb New figures that show the amount of British lamb on the shelves in Tesco stores has fallen dramatically, is another kick in the teeth for sheep farmers in this country, according to NFU livestock board chairman Charles Sercombe. he latest AHDB Beef and Lamb Watch has revealed Tesco lamb facings for August 2015 have dropped by 15 per cent compared to August 2014, from 73 per cent to 58 per cent.

The report backs up the NFU’s own beef and lamb watch exercise carried out last month when members were asked to provide us with information on the lamb offers in Tesco and ASDA stores over two weekends. The NFU encouraged members to identify examples of sourcing and labelling practices, as well as pricing and promotional activity and whether this included British lamb.

Mr Sercombe said: “In June, NFU President Meurig Raymond tabled a question at Tesco’s AGM and urged the retailer to demonstrate exactly how it is delivering on its promises and commitments made at NFU Conference in 2013 and to give firm evidence that progress is being made. They then confirmed that the promises to source more meat closer to home – which they made nearly three years ago – still stood.

Just days ago the UK farming unions met with Tesco to discuss the challenges facing British agriculture.

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“But now, we get these figures from AHDB which seem to indicate that Tesco is saying one thing but doing another. Using facings as a key indicator, Tesco support for domestic lamb is not just below average, but it appears to be bottom of the pile. We are challenging Tesco to explain how this reduction in the percentage of British lamb sold is compatible with its open public commitments to source more meat closer to home. British farmers are once again asking, why in the peak British lamb season are Tesco not backing British?

“Tesco says it has long term aims to support British sheep producers by growing its Sustainable Lamb Group partnership but this will take time for farmers to see the benefits. We need to see positive steps now to source British lamb which is at its best.

“On the plus side, the AHDB report highlights those retailers who are consistently supporting British farming such as Waitrose, Budgens, Aldi and Morrisons, who all have 100% British lamb facings. Meanwhile, The Cooperative, Sainsbury’s, ASDA and Lidl are showing signs of improvement but could still do better.”

Agri.cycle anniversary To celebrate 10 years since the launch of their company, Agri.cycle are proud to announce their link ups with the scholarship schemes of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and QEST (Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust), a charity formed and supported by Royal Warrant Holders.

Agri.cycle, based in Lincolnshire, who operate nationally via a series of farming collection points, has announced that a percentage of the revenue raised from recycling agricultural plastic and shotgun cartridges originating from either Royal Warrant Holders/QEST supporters, and members of the Worshipful Company of Farmers will be donated back to the scholarship schemes offered by the two organisations.

QEST funds the education of talented craftspeople through either college courses, apprenticeships or one-on-one training with masters and the Worshipful Company of Farmers is a dynamic organisation dedicated to advancing the farming industry and all those in it.

Robert Moore, Managing Director of Agri.Cycle stated 'We are delighted to offer our support to these two deserving scholarship schemes. I myself am a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and further to this Agri.cycle is a proud Royal Warrant Holder. Through these well respected schemes Agri.cycle is helping to support the future for farming and rural crafts. We are proud to be working for future generations of our industry'.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 09

| Animal Health

Parasites – the invisible threat to dairy fertility and performance The invisible threat of gutworm is seriously affecting dairy cow fertility in up to 80% of UK dairy herds1, says Merial Animal Health. Merial is seeking to raise awareness of the damaging impact of Ostertagia ostertagi and, in doing so, improve dairy productivity. he reduction in milk production from a gutworm infection is well documented2,” says Sioned Timothy, veterinary adviser for Merial. “Both animal health advisers (Suitably Qualified Persons – SQPs) and vets recognise the threat such infections cause. However, since cows often show no outward signs of disease, even in the face of a massive challenge, dairy farmers could unwittingly suffer heavy losses in milk yield, reduced fertility and increased heifer rearing costs at a time when they can least afford it.”

Yet the extent of a herd’s gutworm exposure can be easily and simply assessed from a sample taken from the bulk milk tank – using the MOO Test. This test determines the amount of antibody to Osteragia ostertagi present in a sample, giving an accurate assessment of the level of herd gutworm challenge.

The metabolic demands placed on cows during the post-calving period can lead to a negative energy balance, when energy gained from feed intake is less than that used for milk production. This natural ‘energy gap’ leads to weight loss; a parasite burden can make matters worse.

Sioned advises taking action to reduce the effect of this postcalving energy gap to maintain productivity levels.

She says: “Management of cows in the weeks following calving should focus on maximising dry matter intake to correct the energy imbalance as quickly as possible.

Studies have shown that cows treated for gutworm have improved appetites, and graze for up to an hour longer than untreated cows3.

Grass is the cheapest form of nutrition so it makes sense to make the most of it.”

When it comes to fertility, studies have shown that effective parasite

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control may have a beneficial effect4,5. Reduced body condition scores caused by the energy gap after calving may impact on reproductive parameters. In one study, cows treated for gutworm were back in calf 13 days sooner than untreated animals4.

“This has obvious implications for productivity,” says Sioned. “We need to look at employing a range of practical measures to ensure cows are as productive and efficient as possible, and this includes targeted worming where required.”

It’s not just adult cow fertility that can be compromised by a gutworm burden. Effective parasite management of the replacement heifer during the rearing period is key to her future performance and productivity. Achieving breedappropriate target weights throughout the rearing period is a crucial component of heifer rearing.

The onset of puberty and the start of breeding are more closely linked to weight, body size and condition score than age. It is therefore critical to ensure that heifers reach approximately 60% of mature weight by 14 months of age in order to achieve a 24 month average age at calving.

“Losses in potential liveweight gain due to poor parasite control during a heifer’s first grazing season will not be recouped during the second year at grass6. She won’t catch up, and this will impact on her ability to meet important milestones,” warns Sioned.

Getting heifers in-calf at the optimal time will help to reduce breeding costs and maximises the potential productive life of the animal. Heifers treated for gutworm have been shown to have a 20% higher conception rate at first service than untreated cattle2.

There is also evidence that parasite burdens exert physiological effects that directly impact on the parameters influencing performance and profitability of heifers, and

10 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

increased mammary development and earlier onset of puberty have been observed in strategically wormed heifers in comparison to those left untreated7,8.

“Effective worming will mitigate the effect of parasites on fertility levels in growing cattle4, while still allowing them to build the necessary immunity required to prevent clinical disease in adulthood,” advises Sioned.

Paul White, a dairy farmer from Wonwell Court Farm in Kingston, Devon, has seen the positive effects of treating for gutworm. The farm aims to maintain a closed herd, and there are plans to increase the milking herd of 100 cows to 120, with home-reared replacements.

Paul discovered the benefits of worming dairy cows several years ago, when he treated his first calvers. He says: “We were interested in using Eprinex® because at the time it was the only product with a zero milk withhold.

We saw a big difference with the heifers, so decided to use Eprinex® on the whole herd. Now we treat all the cattle annually, at housing.”

Since the worming programme began Paul has seen an overall improvement in the condition of the cows, and heifers are getting in-calf sooner. An improvement in the longevity of the herd is also apparent, with each cow averaging around six lactations.

Milk yield has also increased.

Paul says: “We always used to be pleased if the best heifer did 6000 litres per year, but now our top heifer produced 10,800 litres; the heifers are averaging well over 7000 litres; and the whole herd is averaging over 8000 litres.”

“Paul’s herd is a good example of how removing a gutworm burden can improve both fertility performance and herd productivity,” says Sioned. “Paul has found that treating the herd annually at housing to remove

parasite burdens acquired during the grazing season suits his system. Other approaches to treatment timing can be taken; factors such as grazing practices and calving pattern should be taken into account when determining which is most appropriate. There is increasing evidence that targeting treatment around the time of calving can yield benefits throughout the subsequent lactation.”

References 1. MOO Test data 2009 – 2014, Merial Animal Health 2015 2. Reist et al. (2011) Effect of eprinomectin treatment on milk yield and quality in dairy cows in South Tyrol, Italy. Veterinary Record 168, 484-487 3. Forbes et al. Behavioural mechanisms underlying production responses in dairy cows treated with eprinomectin. 19th WAAVP Congress 2003, New Orleans 4. McPherson et al. Proceedings of the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists. 44th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, 1999 Abstr. 28.

5. Sanchez et al.(2002) The effect of eprinomectin treatment at calving on reproduction parameters in adult dairy cows in Canada. Preventative Veterinary Medicine 56:165-177 6. Larsson et al. (2011) Performance of second-season grazing cattle following different levels of parasite control in their first grazing season. Veterinary Parasitology 175 (2011) 134-140 7. Mejía et al (2009) Effect of anthelmintics on reproductive performance and first lactation culling rate in Holstein heifers. Vet Rec 165: 143–146 8. Perria et al (2013) Gastrointestinal parasite control during prepuberty improves mammary parenchyma development in Holstein heifers. Vet Parasitol 198:345-350

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| Animal Health

Keep air quality, ammonia in check this autumn Autumn is in the air. As temperatures decrease and relief begins from the summer sun’s intense rays, swine producers will prepare their facilities for the change in season. ust as with the summer heat, the autumn/winter season also requires proper ventilation,” said Russell Gilliam, U.S. swine business manager for Alltech.

“During colder months, a balance to keep air moving, without causing abnormal temperature changes in the barn, must be met.”

According to Gilliam, an effective air quality programme for hog facilities should include the following procedures: • Determine all fans are in working order. Clean fan blades, check the motors and make sure

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the fan’s thermostat works.

• Examine fan blades and louvers for damage and rust and replace them if they are older than 10 to 15years old.

• Pay close attention to curtains to ensure they close securely and that all debris or equipment are cleaned up and put away before snowfall.

• Check propane tanks for leaks and then test all supplemental heat sources for proper function.

• Examine your rodent control programme.

While all of these tips can be quite useful in keeping the facility safe for the pig herd and the employees in the barn, swine

operations may want to consider employing the use of a feed additive to combat the additional challenge of ammonia. Ammonia is a toxic gas that when present in high levels can damage the cell lining in the respiratory tract and easily become a chronic problem in the barn. The gas, released through the activity of waste-degrading microbes, can cause stillbirths, boar taint, tailbiting and respiratory diseases in pigs; it can also cause severe problems for humans. A number of management factors can contribute to poor air quality and ammonia, such as overfeeding nutrients as well as reduced ventilation.

One nutritional approach that some producers have found as a safe, natural way to reduce emissions and maintain air quality is the addition of a yucca plant extract that binds ammonia. The

Yucca schidigera plant extract is known for its ability to reduce adverse manure emissions and the level of ammonia in animal housing when used as a feed additive (DEODORASE®). The plant extract keeps manure odour and ammonia at levels conducive to maintaining the pig’s respiratory health, creating a healthier environment for the animal as well as the producer.

“Reduced airflow and increased ammonia levels are inevitable in the barn during the autumn/winter months. Producers need to make sure their barns can get through the long winter and prevent respiratory disease and health problems for both their herd and their employees,” Gilliam said.

“Embracing new technologies and developing a management plan can help swine operations handle these cold weather challenges effectively.”

New diagnostics development An easy-to-use tissue sampler enabling multiple diagnostic tests - genomics, parentage and disease resistance potential, for example - from a single ear notch will soon be available to cattle producers. he new tissue sampling tag has been developed

by Allflex Europe (UK) Ltd. It will enable farmers to use a single ear-tag notch to test cattle for BVDv status and retain the original tissue sample indefinitely for further valuable tests.

Current BVDv tissue tag tests are single function. The process by which the tissue is examined in the lab renders it unusable for further tests. Allflex vet Dr Johan Meulemeester and his team have developed a new DNA buffer liquid in the tag mechanism that preserves the integrity of DNA extracted from the tissue sample.

Once taken, the sample can be stored long term.

According to Helen Sheppard of

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Allflex, the development heralds an exciting breakthrough in tissue sampling. “Using a high welfare and simple to use single tag on farm to take a tissue sample suitable for multiple tests will appeal to numerous cattle producers,” she says.

"The rise in interest in genomic testing as a farm breeding tool, combined with a need to diagnose disease, will make this new tag indispensable. Being able to store DNA samples reliably and long term will have so many future applications. Right now, we expect this new development to be welcomed particularly by the meat industry, with traceability from farm to consumer being paramount.”

More information can be found at www.allflex.co.uk or by calling 01450 364120

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 11

| On Topic

Farmers advised...

Use extra rodent control power with care Now they can be legally used around as well as inside buildings, the most powerful ‘single feed’ rodenticides will really help UK farmers control rats as well as mice. owever, the particular potency that makes them so valuable in dealing with challenging rodent populations means particular care needs to be taken to safeguard non-target species, stresses BASF global rodenticide technical manager, Sharon Hughes. All the more so since monitoring already shows increasing levels of rodenticide residues in predatory birds and other vulnerable wildlife.

Speaking at the launch of the biggest-ever development of the company’s Storm range of flocoumafen-based rodenticides for the UK at Harper Adams University this autumn, she urged farmers to integrate these and other products that can deliver a lethal dose in a single feed into rodent management programmes in the most responsible ways possible.

“Everyone needs to comply with the intention as much as the letter of the new UK Rodenticide Stewardship Regime,” insisted Sharon Hughes. “If residues keep on rising in key wildlife indicators we could well lose these vital products completely. In the absence of any suitable alternatives this would be disastrous.

So the stakes couldn’t be higher.”

Alongside the established flocoumafen block, Storm Secure, BASF unveiled two new

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12 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

UK formulations of their most powerful rat killer at the University launch with the intention of providing palatable high potency baits for every treatment need.

All three formulations have been proven 100% effective in trials with even the most broadly anti-coagulant resistant and tolerant rat and mouse populations for the most reliable control.

Storm Pasta is a moist, non-grain soft block for general-purpose use. Without any added odours, it boasts exceptional rat and mouse palatability even when compared to a variety of other pasta baits on the market. Protected from spillage by an aroma-permeable sachet, it has a carefully balanced oil profile to minimise seepage, coupled with good resistance to humidity and moisture and stability under extremes of heat and cold.

“Our soft Storm block is especially valuable in dry environments, where competition from other food sources is high, and with populations reluctant to feed on grain-based baits,” pointed out, BASF sales manager, Gavin Wood. “Effective protection against spillage and the weather makes it suitable for use in a wide variety of external uses. And the fact that it’s easy to secure in bait stations ensures good non-target species protection.

“For use outdoors and in especially

challenging areas, Storm Secure continues to offer the best combination of grain-based palatability, durability and securability, especially for burrow baiting.

“Complementing our two block options is Storm Mini-Bits - a loose bait alternative for indoor and selective area use. It stands out as the most consistently palatable bait we’ve ever tested and is specifically designed for use where non-target species risk is low and as an internal complement to other baits used externally.”

“For the greatest non-target species protection, we strongly advise against using any loose ‘single feed’ bait outdoors in most situations,” stressed Sharon Hughes. “Those who prefer a grain bait for external use should stick to our Fortec-enhanced ‘multiple-feed’ bait, Neosorexa Gold with its well-proven uptake advantages.

“We believe ‘single feed’ rodenticide use outside should always be confined to hard or soft blocks. Because they can be fastened securely within well-covered and protected bait stations they present much less of danger of being removed by foraging rodents and left exposed to pets or other wildlife.”

As part of a concerted attempt to ensure the most sustainable approach to rodenticide use under the new ‘in and around’ labels, BASF

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| On Topic

also recommends ‘single feed’ rodenticides are only employed where they are really needed – where infestations haven’t been controlled by the best-available ‘multiple-feed’ baits; where rats and mice are known to be resistant to other SGARs; or indoors to complement external multi-feed baits in anti-resistance strategies. ddition to minimising the risk to non-target species, this approach will ensure the greatest use is made of well-formulated multi-feed rodenticides – which can be as effective as single feed products in many situations.

“Following extensive field trialling with our new Storm range, we advise using it in simple, low input weekly treatment programmes, requiring markedly less bait and fewer visits than traditional multi-feed rodenticide regimes,” added Sharon Hughes.

“Our trials on farms with comparable rat populations show this approach gives savings of more than 75% in bait use and 25% in baiting visits to significantly cut treatment costs. Far less bait in the environment, of course, also helps minimise the risk to non-target species.”

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FREE certification workshops October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Pests

FREE rodent control workshops for farmer certification A series of free workshops across the country this winter will allow farmers to obtain the certification they need to continue buying professional rodenticides from 2016 under the new UK Rodenticide Stewardship regime. joint venture between rural hygiene specialist, BASF and leading agricultural distributors, the dedicated workshops delivered by independent training provider, FarmTrain will include a written test leading to the award of a Stewardship-recognised Lantra Rodent Control on Farms certificate of competence.

“Using rodenticides as part of integrated strategies which adequately safeguard wildlife and pets while effectively controlling rats and mice is at the heart of the industry stewardship programme developed to meet Health & Safety Executive requirements,” explained FarmTrain instructor and partner, Oliver Madge.

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“Under it the most powerful rodenticides are now legally allowed to be used around as well as inside buildings but users will only be able to continue buying the professional products they’ve long relied upon if they hold a recognised certificate of competence – or, for an interim period, if they’re part of a farm assurance scheme with a vermin control requirement.

“To enable farmers to gain the certificates of competence they need as simply and effectively as possible we’ve worked with Lantra and AHDB to develop a programme of Rodent Control on Farms courses, top-up sessions and on-line learning. Using these materials we’re running a series of free half to one-day BASF

FarmTrain instructor & partner, Oliver Madge

workshops from this October for farmers keen to secure the required certification at the earliest opportunity.”

How to keep rodents out of your farmyard buildings

By David Cross, head of technical training, Rentokil Pest Control. armyard buildings can become the perfect home for rodents due to the abundance of food and shelter they provide.

Rodents can spread infections such as Weil’s disease, contaminate animal feed and gnaw through doors and electrical cords, sometimes causing fires. Their feeding habits are destructive and their nesting habits can compromise the infrastructure of a building. With such high risks, it makes sense to ensure you proactively prevent and quickly deal with any signs of infestation.

One way to control the spread of rodents in farmyard buildings is to go back to basics and make sure you don’t provide these creatures with the ideal conditions in which to thrive.

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How to rodent-proof your farmyard building Early prevention Products such as Rentokil’s non-toxic monitoring blocks can be used to detect the very early stages of a rodent infestation. This device works by monitoring for rodent activity, alerting farmers of a possible problem, while avoiding the need to keep toxic substances in the farm environment.

Remove sources of food Mice and rats can consume and contaminate food destined for livestock so it’s important to keep it sealed properly in metal or industrial plastic bins, in silos or on pallets held above floor level in racking. Regularly clean troughs and stores and make sure waste packaging materials and other unwanted items are removed from the farm yard on a regular basis.

Cleanliness is key Try to keep clutter to a minimum and move tools away from the walls to ensure you can

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Simple things like ensuring that animal feed is properly sealed and stored can make a big difference, as can sealing any obvious holes in

the exterior of the building with wire wool, metal kick plates or caulk.

check what’s hiding behind them. Seal holes in walls, ensure refuse on site is kept in closed bins, and clean pipes and drains regularly.

signs of rodent activity.

Whether you’re dealing with a rodent problem or are simply looking to prevent one, it’s important that you know who to contact.

For any external contractor, part of their role is to be fully up-to-speed on the latest legislation changes in their area of expertise. Pest controllers are no different, so if you’re in any doubt as to what substances to use, then it’s always best to check with the experts. The exposure of wildlife to rodenticides, either by direct consumption or by indirect consumption by predating or scavenging animals that have already consumed rodenticide is a serious and very topical issue, it is important that this type of exposure is controlled, only people who have been trained in the safe use of rodenticides should apply them after careful consideration to the environment and the impact that they may have on non-target animals.

Spotting the danger signs Smell and sound: Rats and mice have a very strong ammonia stench. On top of this, rodents are often very noisy, making scrabbling noises.

Droppings: Rats excrete dark, pellet shaped droppings up to 14mm. Mice droppings are typically 5mm and spindle shaped.

Smears: You may notice grease marks where rodents brush up against walls and surfaces in your building.

Damage: Perhaps one of the most obvious pointers, but also the most difficult to spot – gnawing marks, shredded paper and damage to feed sacks and hay bales are all common

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Sheep

Healthy lambs will finish well this autumn Checks to lamb growth rates and lost condition is costly and inefficient, so supporting lambs at grass now in order to protect their health and ensure continued good growth rates, will keep performance up this season. avid Thornton, Rumenco’s technical manager explains that an average daily liveweight gain (DLWG) of 200g is a reasonable target to expect to achieve in our prime lambs at this time of year.

“To do this, lambs weighing 35kg need a metabolisable energy (ME) intake of 14MJ/day. To achieve this solely from grass, the available grazing must be able to supply 10.2MJ/kg dry matter, which many pastures will struggle to meet at the moment,” says Mr Thornton.

“Worm burdens are also a concern for lambs at grass. Heavy infestations of internal parasites will result in poor performance and checks to growth rates. Any supplementary nutrition needs to

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support the existing on-farm control strategies,” explains Mr Thornton, “while also balancing any deficiencies in the available autumn grazing.”

Trials* undertaken at Aberystwyth University in 2014, to investigate the effect of supporting lambs with a supplement in their diet containing diatomaceous earth (DE), found that it had a positive effect on growth rates of lambs, general condition and dagginess.

The on-farm trial looked at the effects of DE when it was included in the supporting ration over a 10 week period. Two groups of lambs, one group receiving DE, and a control group, were weighed, condition scored and graded for dagginess, fortnightly.

The lambs that received DE remained significantly cleaner than

the control group, with less wet, dirty or scouring lambs in the group. They also had consistently better condition scores than the control group, with 95% of them scoring 4 or above, while in the control group, only 58% of the lambs scored at 4 or above.

The trial concluded that, within a managed rotational grazing system, the group of lambs which received the DE in their supporting rations were better able to cope with intestinal worm burdens, compared to lambs in the control group. This was supported by representative mob faecal egg counts (FEC) which were carried out during the trial, which showed that the group of lambs receiving DE in their diet maintained predominantly lower FECs than

the control group.

CleanSweep, which includes DE, is formulated to also include the recommended levels of cobalt and selenium, to help lambs thrive and help avoid knock backs from worm burdens.

“Cobalt and selenium are particularly important,” explains Mr Thornton, “cobalt is vital for the synthesis of vitamin B12, important for energy metabolism, and selenium is vital for immune function.

“Even small improvements in lamb liveweights can lead to better returns this autumn,” says Mr Thornton, and in conjunction with improved condition and the resulting carcase quality, it can all have a positive impact on price per kilo for finished lamb this season.”

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Sheep

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. The 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. ringing 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

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customers”.

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”.

“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

16 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

Plan ahead with online calendars Efficient herd and flock managers spend a lot of time planning to ensure key, time-sensitive tasks are completed on time, according to AHDB Beef & Lamb. he AHDB Beef & Lamb Better Returns Programme (BRP) Flock and Herd Management Calendars provide a simple, free-of-charge online solution for remembering all the important jobs.

How they work The calendars show all the key production tasks throughout the year, which are set by entering the appropriate lambing/calving or tupping/service date.

The calendar contains all the activities which are time specific for the group. Clicking on each task brings up helpful technical information relating to it.

In the calendar view, the preset tasks cannot be moved, but

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bespoke tasks can be added which do not already appear, such as shearing or specific veterinary treatments.

The activities can be viewed online or saved as a pdf and printed out. Reminder emails are sent every Sunday with the up and coming tasks for the weeks ahead.

Register for free at www.flockcalendar.com or www.herdcalendar.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

RIDBA revs up for the future Changes afoot for Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association. n association which campaigns on behalf of agricultural building contractors, with knock-on benefits for farmers, is preparing to power up.

The Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA) has most notably helped its 197 members through the new CE Marking regulations which made it a criminal offense after July 2014 to supply a building that did not meet the new criteria.

It did this by linking up with regulatory body BM TRADA to give its members (typically steel and timber frame manufacturers) 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.

But the retirement next year of its national secretary Tony Hutchinson, who has held the post for 16 years and was the driver behind its evolution in the last five years from small trade

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association with just 75 members, has prompted a review of its future format and function.

A sub-committee reviewed how other trade associations are managed and recommended that RIDBA’s secretariat be managed by Build UK, the newly-merged National Specialist Contractors Council and UK Contractors Group.

Build UK, which 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, will employ a dedicated trade association manager to run RIDBA, supported by the rest of the Build UK team as required.

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, an extraordinary general meeting on October 6th will recommend 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 non-frame manufacturers respectively, with less and more than six employees.

A RIDBA statement said: “It is clear that the challenges of CE Marking and its associated

legislation will continue and as such will detract from the national secretary’s time in dealing with the day-to-day. If we are to grow our membership, and more importantly seek to deliver the additional services requested, we needed to develop our administrative function.

“These changes will put RIDBA in a far stronger position to face the issues of the future. 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.

It will also allow RIDBA to move forward in other important areas, such as accreditation of site practice and a closure relationship with the NFU.”

New land website with no land selling fees?

In a world of stealth charges, corrupt banks and economic uncertainty you would be forgiven for thinking that selling something without being charged selling or advertising fees is highly unlikely, especially when it comes to land and property. et one particular business is doing exactly that. Land For Labour, based in East Sussex, has devised a new website where landowners can trade their land for highly skilled construction projects, obviating the need for landowners to raise finance for improvements and dispensing with selling fees, advertising fees and land selling delays.

The website brings together highly skilled craftsmen from across the UK and unites them with farmers to deliver high quality and highly skilled projects.

A quote from the owner Richard

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Kembry “Our main aims are to offer landowners better value for their land and stimulate growth in the agricultural construction industry at macro-economic level”……….. “We like to think many landowners will see this as a good thing and there are wider implications, for example the presence of people living and operating on the periphery of land often increases security for the landowner”……… “In some cases landowners are themselves unable to raise finance to undertake improvements on their land so Land for Labour gives them an alternative” You can visit Land For Labour at www.landforlabour.co.uk

October 2015 | Farming Monthly |17

| Buildings

Preparing for a fierce winter Recent reports have shown that we are in for a fairly fierce winter. Like all businesses, farmers need to be prepared for severe weather and as such, agricultural building specialist, Graham Heath Construction has seen a huge uptake on its Livestock ‘Special’ building after it further reduced the price to £17,000 to support Livestock farming. xperts are saying that the British Isles are in for a bitterly cold and snowy winter thanks to a weather condition called the ‘El Nino’ phenomenon, which comes around every two to seven years. As such, meteorologists predict that we will endure a similar winter to that of 2009/2010, when heavy snowfall caused chaos throughout the UK. Graham Heath Construction has reacted swiftly to what is predicted to be the worst winter on record, by dropping the price of its 100ft x 40ft x 15ft Livestock Special Building to £17,000. In addition to this, the Graham Heath Construction design and build teams have also been busy creating bespoke buildings for a variety of livestock needs, from general livestock buildings to specific builds such as

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18 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

robotic milking palours, sheep and chicken sheds. Manufacturing the steelwork on site and its Cheshire plant allows them to manufacturer to customers’ exact requirements. Concrete panels are also manufactured on-site by its sister company Concrete Panel Systems.

The Livestock special building is ideal for dividing in two and having half for livestock and the remainer for machinery. The severe weather means machinery may get damaged if kept outside, so storing it inside will ensure that during the tough winter months it will be reliable when needed.

Coming from a strong farming background, Graham Heath Construction understands the trials and tribulations that winter can bring. All Graham Heath Construction buildings and materials are CE Marked and are built with materials that can withstand severe weather

such as heavy snowfall and frost with ease. As part of CE Marking, a structural calculation is carried out on buildings to give extra reassurance.

Founder, Graham Heath comments: “Keeping animals housed properly for winter is vital, however, when we are looking at the predicted weather conditions for Winter 2016, it is more important than ever. We cater for all farming needs to create the perfect buildings, from bespoke designs, through to the concrete panels that we produce ourselves. We offer buildings that can be easily maintained and offer essential durability and hygiene, which is vital when animals are kept in over the winter.”

To find out more about Graham Heath Construction products and prices visit www.ghconstruction.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Choosing Between the Sheets

Your building will stand or fall by, perhaps literally, the quality of materials used in its construction

As the year marches on and thoughts begin to turn to the winter ahead, Ged Ferris Marketing Manager of Cembrit, makes the case for fibre cement corrugated sheeting as the material of choice for farm buildings odern purpose built farm buildings are a familiar feature of our landscape. Their large storage capacity and general usefulness are widely appreciated by the countryside community. As home to everything from livestock, combine harvesters, large consignments of feed bags, fertilizers or hay bales, they are indispensable to the forwardthinking farmer.

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“As with any building, specifying good quality materials will pay dividends in the long run - and with farm buildings this is especially so” By their nature, the design of this type of building is usually functional and long lasting.

They cover a large floor area, and are commonly single skin, single span constructions. Whilst the design is simple and straightforward, the specification of the correct material for roofing and cladding is an important factor that will affect the long-term cost and safety of the building. The main reason for this is that depending on the storage contents, the cladding material can be affected in different ways. The challenge is to specify a quality material that copes with these challenges while meeting budget restraints.

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Single skin construction is the most widespread and practical roofing and cladding method for most livestock buildings and as such, the roofing and cladding has to cope with the demands placed upon it by livestock, produce, the weather or indeed just general purpose storage. It is often a surprise to laypeople that the internal atmosphere of livestock buildings is aggressive. However when you consider the volume of methane, urea and condensation produced by a herd of over wintering cattle for example, you can imagine how the roof covering in particular is subject to attack. To meet these challenges, fibre-cement corrugated sheet is by far the most cost effective option and it also offers outstanding resistance to atmospheric and internal attack chemicals, corrosive vapours - and it’s also rust proof!

Cembrit fibre cement corrugated sheeting is fully compressed during manufacture. We believe this is a vital step in the process and should not be overlooked. The reason for this is that if a board is not compressed (i.e. equating to a lower density) the roof is put under immense stress and fixing tolerances will be tested to their limit. If found wanting, there is the possibility that the fixing hole will break down, calling into question the integrity of the roof itself. Cemsix fully compressed fibre cement sheet and accessories (cranks, bargeboards, vents and flashings) are all covered by a BBA certificate, as are painted

Cembrit production Unit

and matt “pre-weathered” cemscape options.

The updated version of the BBA certificate, following recent inspections by the BBA, confirms the additional compression process on Cembrit’s production line.

Your building will stand or fall by, perhaps literally, the quality of materials used in its construction. As with any building, specifying good quality materials will pay dividends in the long run - and with farm buildings this is especially so. If someone is offering you fibre cement sheet at a cheap price, beware - there is a likelihood that it is only semi-compressed and unlikely to be as durable as the robust fully compressed Cemsix offered by Cembrit.

Call +44 (0)20 8301 8900 email sales@cembrit.co.uk or visit www.cembrit.co.uk for more information

October 2015 | Farming Monthly |19

| Grain

Get to know the quality of your grain In 2013 AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds published a new guide to grain sampling.

The guide brings together existing published guidance on sampling into one publication, updating and highlighting best practice across the supply chain. he guide, which has been endorsed by seven industry organisations, covers developments in protocols as well as the essentials of when to sample and how to do it.

“For growers, knowing the quality of your grain is essential so that you can store it then sell it effectively, and get the best return for your work,” says AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Chairman, Paul Temple.

He continues, “But the guide is not just for growers. It was drawn up with support across the supply chain, so it sets a benchmark for good sampling practice from the field to the weighbridge.”

The grain sampling guide highlights four key points for sampling grain. The first is to know the harvested quality so that growers can dry and cool the grain as necessary and identify potential buyers.

Protecting the harvested quality is the second stage. Stored well, grain quality should not deteriorate but store managers need to be on the look-out for any early signs of spoilage or infestation.

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For growers, knowing the quality of your grain is essential so that you can store it then sell it effectively, and get the best return for your work AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Chairman Paul Temple

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The right equipment is crucial for grain sampling

Third, when grain leaves the farm, it is important to get a sample of what is loaded onto the lorry. This provides a record of what has been sold and can show that the grain meets specifications.

In addition, farm assurance schemes often require this type of sample to be retained to ensure traceability in the supply chain.

“For growers, knowing the quality of your grain is essential so that you can store it then sell it effectively, and get the best return for your work” The final stage for sampling is at commercial intake where buyers use automated equipment to take samples from lorries as they come in. These samples are used to confirm that the grain meets the specification and also to inform decisions about further processing.

Go to cereals.ahdb.org.uk/grainstorage to get your copy of the grain sampling guide.

20 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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| Grain

Successful season for BDC Systems BDC Systems Ltd reports another successful season for the well-known Svegma grain driers and Skandia elevating and conveying equipment. ith continuous flow driers totaling over 630tph this season ranging from small 10tph indoor units to 75tph commercial driers, there has been a good variety of units installed this year.

Apart from upgraded fans, burners and control panel the basic drier hasn’t changed significantly over the years which proves that the design was correct from the start.

This means that spare parts are still available for driers over 30 years old.

Sales of Skandia’s range of elevating and conveying equipment has increased by 15% this season, due to competitive prices, extended warranties, quality products and quick deliveries. With the addition of catwalks, silo sweep conveyors and heavy duty curved machines up to 200tph capacity, the future looks very promising. As the official Skandia UK agent, BDC Systems keeps a vast amount spares for the

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equipment in stock at its warehouse in Wiltshire for immediate delivery Ventilation equipment sales have also increased this year, with more new stores looking to install below floor ventilation systems, for ease of loading / unloading and even airflow through the crop. Heavy duty level floor laterals, corraducts and ventilation fans from 0.25kw to 7.5kw are also available from stock.

Cleaning equipment ranging from in-line aspirators, heavy duty aspirators, rotary drum pre cleaners and graders are also part of the portfolio of equipment on offer. A good quality aspiration type precleaner is proving to be an essential piece of equipment.

Installed in front of driers they minimize the amount of light trash entering the drier and becoming a potential fire hazard.

BDC Systems is the UK's leading supplier for grain drying, cleaning, storage, handling and ventilation systems.

Visit www.bdcsystems.com

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Grain

New grain silo for the European market Chief Industries UK Ltd is pleased to be able to introduce a new grain silo that it will be offering to the European market, as from this month (October 2015).

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he silo will be manufactured at the Chief facility in France and will be produced to the latest EUROCODE

criteria.

The silo will be available as standard in capacities from 80 to 15000 cubic metres from the European facility, and up to 27000 cubic metres on special order.

The wall sheets are manufactured from high quality steel to EN 10326 The 1077mm wall sheet height requires significantly fewer rings, seams and stiffeners. Combined with our exclusive “W” stiffener, the bins offer unsurpassed strength, whilst reducing costly assembly time.

The “W” stiffener is nearly twice as strong as that of the closest competitor. Designed to support

the vertical load, the unique “W” staggered stiffener system provides supplemental strength and fully supports overhead catwalks and conveyors.

The 120 x 11mm profile of the shallow form corrugated sheets minimises the build up of residual grain on the silo wall during unloading.

The wall sheets are manufactured from high quality steel to EN 10326 and are Sendzimir galvanised to Z450 as standard and Z600 on request.

Roof panels are of Aluzinc AZ 185, which is superior to galvanised steel, and feature an interlocking “J” rib design for outstanding strength and reduced assembly time.

All roofs have a 30 degree pitch with high peak load capacities and are designed to support additional loads imposed by conveyors, temperature cables, or heavier snow loads. The design meets anti-explosion criteria.

22 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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| Grain

Have you heard about the Master Drier range that operates within a DUST FREE Environment?

Mobile Driers have become very popular due to their flexibility and cost differential when compared with continuous flow driers. With the use of modern PLC systems and touch screen controls the ease of which a batch dryer can be integrated into a new or existing system has greatly improved. ur new Totally Enclosed Batch System has been under test on farms throughout the UK for the past five years, and we can now report we have a number up and running throughout the UK, with some very encouraging feedback already, even at this early stage of harvest.

The Master Totally Enclosed System (TE for short) incorporates an outer vertical skin which forms a cavity between the perforated inner screen and the solid outer sections; this allows the dust to fall vertically for collection by a flex auger system. This operates at the base of the vertical screens for discharge in to the Dust Extraction Line.

The bottom triangular sections are fabricated from solid stainless steel. The totally enclosed drier creates a pressurized system with a ducted exhaust which operate in conjunction with the efficient Master Dust extraction system to ensure the very best operating environment while still maintaining the renowned bushel weight improvements of Master Driers.

With the necessity for diversification many farm yards now have multiple uses, not only having to carry out grain drying duties but also having to keep business unit tenants happy or solar panels on roofs clean we have seen an increasing demand for this type of machine. One of the big advantages of the TE system is that you have options of

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where any dust or rubbish collected by the machine is deposited in a control manner in a place of your choosing.

The system also has benefits in health and safety aspects of grain drying over traditional continuous and batch driers. With the TE system there are the benefits of improved air quality around the drier as well as a quieter operating environment, improving conditions for operators and those in the surrounding environment.

The TE machines can be linked in with existing pits and conveyors as well as being planned in at the design phase of any new drying system. With the flexibility of the PLC controlled touch screen system there are more ways than ever to get the full potential out of your TE batch system as a real alternative to a continuous machine.

Another new option shortly to be available on all our electric models is the ability to remotely monitor your drier via an app on your smartphone, tablet, or from the office computer. This is something our customers have been asking for a while and initial trials are going well, watch this space!

The first systems are operating well and visits can be arranged by appointment.

Another ‘first’ for Master Driers.

For further information call 01787 228450/ 229083 , email enquiries@masterfarm.co.uk or visit www.masterfarm.co.uk

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Arable

Timely, Topical, Technical: three reasons to attend CropTec 2015 Building on the success of last year’s event, CropTec proudly supported by Adama, will be held on Tuesday, 24 and Wednesday, 25 November at the East of England Showground, Peterborough.

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his year’s timing reflects the need to avoid clashing with the Agritechnica Show in Germany.

Registration To encourage knowledge exchange among the British farming community, we have made this year’s event FREE for farmers.

However, they must make sure they pre-register online in order to claim their free place.

Registration is now open via our user-friendly website www.croptecshow.com, tickets are also available to purchase for general admission, priced at £12.

Timing The timing for this year’s CropTec is ideal: growers will know the out turn and value of this year’s harvest, while cash-flow for the coming season will be mapped out. Autumn-sown crops will be established with their potential in the balance, much of that dependent on the latest technical advice and input. It will also provide the ideal opportunity to learn about the prospects for the global harvest and prices.

Topical The dates also ensure this year’s event will be particularly topical. CropTec 2015 provides the perfect platform to learn about the most cost-effective solutions for dealing with the impact of CAP reform, including compliance and to reflect on the new Government’s response to changes. There will be an update on the legally binding Sustainable Use Directive measures which come into force on November 26. Including all the latest news on EU pesticide legislation threatening to cut at least 25 per cent of active ingredients, leading to a drastic reduction in yields and profitability in its wake.

Technical CropTec’s technical content will

deliver solutions to the constraints currently facing the combinable crops sector. It is designed to help growers reduce their unit production costs in order to remain competitive in the increasingly dynamic, global market place – even when prices are low.

The seminar programme will form a backdrop to this highly topical, technical business-tobusiness event. The programme begins with Crop Establishment, followed by the inter-related subjects of Crop Nutrition; Crop Protection and Plant Breeding.

CropTec will be the only event in the agricultural calendar where a maximum of up to 8 BASiS points are available for attending the seminars and knowledge trails.

The exhibition will be bigger this year showcasing the latest innovations in technology, research and development and equipment, designed to encourage knowledge transfer on stands. It’s not about show casing the biggest piece of equipment a manufacturer has in their portfolio, it’s about how a particular piece of kit can help increase production, improve efficiencies and sustain growth for an arable business.

Given the crucial role of pesticides in maintaining healthy, profitable crops, CropTec 2015 sees the introduction of a Spraying Technology Hub, supported by the NAAC and The Voluntary Initiative, to complement the Crop Protection seminar. Given the likelihood of reduced availability of active ingredients and changes in spraying legislation, it will focus on training, stewardship schemes, improving efficacy, drift reduction and safe disposal.

Other technical hubs centre on business, innovation, research and development, while a special Student Careers Forum sets out to help the industry by encouraging new entrants which are the key to

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providing and utilising the latest technology.

New for 2015 The CropTec Student Careers Forum, sponsored by EDGE Careers and in conjunction with the East of England Agricultural Society, has been designed to inspire and support students in the arable sector. With the agricultural industry facing increasing pressure to recruit new and existing entrants, the one-day

session, held on the second day of the event, will offer students an insight into a variety of career options.

From practical farming and research to engineering and consultancy, students will hear professional speakers and fellow graduates explain a typical working day, roles and responsibilities and challenges and benefits.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

Careers Forum for agricultural students will launch at CropTec CropTec, the leading specialist arable event, will host an interactive workshop designed to offer students a diverse insight into career opportunities within the arable industry. ponsored by EDGE, an industry led project that aims to EDUCATE, DEVELOP, GROW and EMPLOY those taking their first steps into careers in the food and farming industries, the event will address some of the challenges students face. Those include the many, multi-faceted career paths now open to them: the different skills required and how to approach specific companies and

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“This is a brilliant opportunity for students to explore the diverse employment opportunities which exist in the dynamic, fast moving and increasingly global arable sector. The CropTec Careers Forum will highlight the numerous courses, skills and experience required to enable students to achieve a successful career in one of the UK’s most exciting industries.”

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organisations for career advice and employment opportunities.

From practical farm management to research, technology, agronomy and consultancy, students will hear professionals from a range of disciplines and recent graduates who will explain a typical working day, roles, responsibilities, challenges and benefits.

Stephen Howe, CropTec’s Development Director, says: “This is a brilliant opportunity for students to explore the diverse employment opportunities which exist in the dynamic, fast moving and increasingly global arable sector. The CropTec Careers Forum will highlight the numerous courses, skills and experience required to enable students to achieve a successful career in one of the UK’s most exciting industries.”

Richard Self, Project Manager for EDGE says: ‘’EDGE are passionate about encouraging bright young entrants in the food and farming industry, sponsoring the student forum at CropTec gives us the opportunity to engage with interested young people as well as developing links with potential employers.’’

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Arable

McDonald’s to purchase only

British potatoes for its famous French Fries cDonald’s UK announced today that for the first time it will use only British potatoes for its famous French Fries, investing around £79 million each year in the sector. From September, all McDonald’s UK French Fries will be made from British potatoes, sourced from around 190 British growers that meet Red Tractor assurance standards.

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“We have worked hard over 40 years to build a UK supply chain built on long term relationships” Announced as the 2015 UK potato harvest gathers pace, the move will make McDonald’s UK one of the largest buyers of British potatoes, through its two suppliers McCain Foods and Lamb Weston. The pledge will see an increased investment by McDonald’s of around £9m pounds on 2013/14 investment levels and is part of McDonald’s commitment to provide consumers with locally and responsibly-sourced food on the high street, and to continue supporting British farmers.

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Along with the move to source only British potatoes for its UK menu, McDonald’s unveiled additional support for the sector: • The extension of McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmer Programme to include a yearlong paid placement for a student to kick-start their career within food and farming with a focus on the potato sector • A commitment to work with McCain Foods Ltd and Lamb Weston, to research the challenges facing the sector and work more closely with growers to develop solutions The announcement forms part of McDonald’s continuing commitment to evolve the sourcing of its ingredients with consumers’ changing preferences and expectations. In April 2013, McDonald’s UK became the first high street restaurant to switch to 100% pork from British, RSPCA Assured scheme farms, becoming the second largest buyer of higher welfare pork in the UK. Research released by the National Farmers’ Union in February this year, revealed that the UK needs to be more self-sufficient, with just 60% of the country’s food needs currently met with produce from British farms. As one of the largest customers of UK farming, McDonald’s most significant supply chain spend is with the

UK’s food and agriculture sector, valued at just over £900 million annually.

Connor McVeigh, UK Supply Chain Director at McDonald’s, said: “Our customers like us to source locally wherever possible, and so we’re pleased to announce that from September, the only potatoes we’ll use for our famous Fries will be British. A succession of wet harvests has caused the British potato sector great uncertainty in recent years, and so I hope our long-term commitment to only source from this country will give farmers the confidence to innovate and invest for the future.

“Our move to British potatoes follows a number of other sourcing firsts, demonstrating our commitment to support British and Irish farmers. In 2013 we became the first highstreet restaurant chain to switch to pork from British, RSPCA Assured scheme farms; and the British free-range egg market has quadrupled in size since we worked with our suppliers to make the switch to using free-range eggs 17 years ago.

“We have worked hard over 40 years to build a UK supply chain built on long-term relationships, which is why our support for the potato sector goes beyond just financial

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“

| Arable

Our move to British potatoes follows a number of other sourcing firsts, demonstrating our commitment to support British and Irish farmers. In 2013 we became the first high-street restaurant chain to switch to pork from British, RSPCA Assured scheme farms; and the British free-range egg market has quadrupled in size since we worked with our suppliers to make the switch to using free-range eggs 17 years ago.

Connor McVeigh, UK Supply Chain Director at McDonald’s

Average annual investment of £79 million forms part of support package for British potato sector

investment. The extension of our Progressive Young Farmer programme meets a real industry need to encourage young people to consider crop production including the potato and fresh produce sectors, as an exciting and rewarding career choice. ” Farming Minister George Eustice said: “Having one of the world’s biggest international food brands sourcing more of its ingredients from the UK, including our quality potatoes and pork, is a real vote of confidence in our country’s world class food and farming industry.”

McDonald’s has been working with its two potato suppliers in the UK for a total of more than 30 years. Together they have enabled

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McDonald’s to source the potatoes it requires for its extra-long Fries including the Russet Burbank to the Shepody varieties. Whole potatoes are washed, peeled and cut before being cooked in a blend of sunflower and rapeseed oil, with a little salt added before serving.

The move to British potatoes forms part of Farm Forward, McDonald’s long-term programme to create a sustainable future for British and Irish farming. Launched in spring 2012, the programme has already made considerable progress delivering projects including: • Progressive Young Farmer Training Programme. The fourth intake of students are

currently completing McDonald’s pioneering training programme that enables young farmers to work in every part of the supply chain from farm through to restaurant.

• Sustainable Beef Clubs involving over 200 beef farmers, which are knowledge-sharing events delivered in collaboration with the processors that supply whole cuts of quality British and Irish beef to McDonald’s.

McDonald’s serves 100% British and Irish beef, 100% pork from British, RSPCA Assured scheme farms and free-range eggs on its UK menu. Other ethically-sourced menu choices include Rainforest Alliance-certified coffee and tea served with organic milk from UK dairies.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Arable

Potato Europe proves positive for AHDB GB seed potatoes promoted under new AHDB Potatoes branding at international trade event. eed potatoes from Britain are known worldwide for their high health, high quality status and the team from AHDB Potatoes (formerly known as Potato Council) were on the GB seed and science stand at this month’s international trade and technical event, Potato Europe.

AHDB Potatoes exhibit at this key event each year to provide a high-profile marketing and networking platform for GB seed exporters and related science organisations. This year’s eyecatching and newly-branded stand showcased varieties and expertise from organisations such as Greenvale, Cygnet PEP, Skea Organics, Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research, James

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A L Lee’s weigher bagger pays for itself in first season

Robert Lee with his Pro-Pak

A L Lee & Sons of Whitebridge Farm, Littleport, Cambs grow around 2,200 acres of potatoes on good Fen soil, primarily ‘Markie’, ‘Piper’ and ‘Ramos’ for the chip trade. n 2012 they introduced a ProPak 12 bucket weigher bagger, replacing an ageing Walthambury counter balanced system.

“We were conscious that we had been overfilling the bags so as not to short measure our customers. Unfortunately we ‘giving away’ up to 1Kg on every 25kg bag!” explained Robert Lee “And that can mount up to 2 or 3 tons per 100 tons bagged.

“With this in mind, and having invested in what for us was a big change, we monitored the ProPak’s performance closely. Not only did it reduce ‘giveaway’ to just 3.5 grams per bag, it did it at a mind boggling speed. Saving us around £80,000 (prices were in the

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region of £300 ton) it paid for itself in its first season.”

Pro-Pak has overcome two problems common to the UK: popular large varieties such as ‘Markie’ can become wedged in some weighing bucket systems and the clogging up of vibrating lanes. While vibrating lanes are OK with clean crops, dirty potatoes lifted from wet or heavy soils deposit mud on the lanes necessitating regular cleaning stops, after every 2 tons with really dirty crops.

This problem is addressed by the Pro-Pak 12 bucket weigher with belt conveyors and X3L buckets. Switching between 20 and 25kg bags is simply a push of a button on the computerised control panel.

“Potatoes are bagged at 17-18 tons an hour, limited only by the

28 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

speed of our stitching line and palletiser” explains Robert. “The belt conveyor can be slowed to avoid damage to the potatoes if necessary. We use misting when the crop is very dry and even this does not cause any problems and a weekly clean is adequate. An unexpected bonus is that the uniformly weighed bags stack much more tidily on the pallet.”

The generous X3L buckets are Teflon coated and designed with a front/bottom flap that leaves a clear passage when opened eliminating blockages. The buckets are arranged in 2 facing rows of 6 buckets. Besides facilitating a shorter discharge belt, contributing to speedier throughput, the 12 buckets offer the machine’s dynamic weighing system an amazing 900+ combinations to achieve

Hutton Ltd, Scottish Government, IPM Potatoes and Cullen Allen.

Many international visitors were able to familiarise themselves with the new AHDB branding, launched this June, with the GB stand welcoming hundreds of international visitors over the two-day event.

Exhibitors on the GB stand were kept busy throughout the two days and reported a productive event once again.

This year’s event was hosted

by Fedagrim in Tournai, a key potato-growing region in Belgium and where well over nine thousand potato growers and trade gathered to discuss varieties, growing, harvesting, machinery, processing and much more besides.

consistent results via as few as 5 buckets. The computerised system learns how big the potatoes are and calculates the best match every time to achieve an average bag throughput of up to 12 a minute.

Photo cell sensors control incoming volumes and a fully adjustable brush spreads the crop across the belts for efficient throughput. Weighing is automatically paused until the holding hoppers are full ensuring that the system works at peak efficiency.

“When we are busy we are very busy so next to accuracy, reliability is our top priority. David Harrison who installed the Pro-Pak is just down the road if we need service back up…but to date we don’t need it!”

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| Arable

Better soil sampling holds key to PCN control Earlier and more intensive soil sampling to accurately determine Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN) risk ahead of planting is vital if growers are to beat this increasing problem, says leading agronomy group Hutchinsons. lthough many growers are routinely testing soils for PCN, John Keer of Richard Austin Agriculture says there is still considerable scope to improve procedures.

Soil sampling as early as possible can potentially make the biggest difference to managing the problem as this allows greater flexibility to alter crop rotation and grow something other than potatoes on fields where high populations are detected, says Dr Keer.

“Many people will typically be sampling from now through the winter, but quite often this means it is too late to change the rotation next spring.

“We are increasingly conducting more sampling in the preceding spring, up until the end of March or mid-April, with a view to altering cropping for the following year if the PCN population warrants it.”

Even where land is believed to be PCN-free it is still worth testing fields well ahead of planting to

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confirm there are no hidden issues, he adds. “This is often a problem on rented areas thought to be virgin potato land, but may have had crops or potato waste on them in the past.”

Build a long-term picture Sampling should be more intensive to build a better picture of the overall situation and reduce the risk of missing PCN hotspots within a field. That means ensuring samples do not represent any more than 1ha, Dr Keer continues.

He also advises growers to GPS map the locations of soil samples, so that repeat future tests can be carried out on the same area to better gauge the success of changes to management practices in reducing PCN counts.

“PCN management is not about managing it over just one crop. It has got to be a rotational plan based on an accurate measure of the problem in the first place and integrates a range of control options that include nematicides, resistant varieties, cover crops and longer rotations. By using an integrated management plan it should be possible to keep levels below 5 eggs per gram.”

A similar view is shared by Hutchinsons agronomist Andrew Goodinson, who advises across 1,000ha of potatoes in Herefordshire.

“Although we’re not seeing the really high egg counts that some other regions experience – early20s per gram is typical - PCN is an increasing problem in this area that is being spread on machinery, such as harvesters, cultivation equipment and sprayers.

“Once hotspots develop they can spread very quickly, so we have to be much more proactive in soil testing fields we suspect could be at risk. Tests are more intensive than in the past, with one sample per hectare or even one per halfhectare where we think there’s a problem.”

Mr Goodinson says even very low egg counts will warrant treatment with an integrated programme as this can prevent a more significant problem spreading. “If you have a high population, you’re better off avoiding growing potatoes on that land altogether.”

He also believes in the benefit of early soil testing for PCN, but

acknowledges that in some cases – especially where land is rented growers may not know exactly which land potatoes will be grown on until relatively late in February or early March.

More info at www.hlhltd.co.uk

PCN control key points • Take soil samples early to allow cropping changes • Aim for one sample per 0.5-1ha max • Map sample locations • Avoid spreading PCN by cleaning machinery if possible, removing volunteer potatoes, disposing of potato waste carefully • Use integrated control measures, including: - Resistant varieties - Longer rotations - Nematicides - Cover crops (e.g. mustard)

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Arable

G's crop doctor research Satellite based monitoring systems have been widely used since the 1970s for the assessment of the use and management of land, but have tended to provide only a general picture of crop production. As a result, the role of 'remote sensing' (the principle of obtaining information from a distance without needing to tread the fields) in agriculture for individual farmers has been limited, and subject to scepticism from the agrifood industry.

eanwhile, there have been dramatic improvements in digital image sensor quality and the availability of satellite images means that we now have access to near-daily earth observation capability at much higher resolution than before. At the same time, manned survey aircraft and drones (or unmanned aerial vehicles, UAVs) are offering another platform choices for collecting very high resolution image data of crops from the air. Low-cost IT now has the capacity to capture and crunch through vast amounts of visual data and provide a detailed and useful analysis for growers.

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Following on from the initial trial G's Growers is extending the remote sensing approach to 30 fields, with the longer-term aim of implementing a real-time crop monitoring and management system across all its land bank The Soil & Agrifood Institute at Cranfield University has been developing innovative digital classification approaches based on a combination of different types of remote sensing data alongside detailed information from the ground to create a more accurate picture of the extent of production, and also the likely levels of yield both now and for the future.

The growers and agribusinesses themselves are often the primary producers of these data, collected routinely as part of existing food production system, and the data is diverse, everything from hand augured soil samples, crop canopy measurements and weather data in the field to real-time fuel efficiency of tractors or yield data from combine harvesters sent wirelessly by telematics, via cloud based services. Through the application of informatics techniques such as machine learning and pattern recognition, new crop models can take into account many more agronomic variables at much higher data-volumes.

This information can then be analysed alongside the big picture data: satellite imagery of crop growth and development, weather data, topography and yield maps. In combination it's then possible to develop algorithms to determine the rules for the best variable rate applications: what varied inputs provide the

30 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

best results for growers, prediction of yield, and other micro-perspectives such as soil degradation and traceability of food crops. With an agri-informatics data-driven approach it is possible to have the basis for planning - and also for managing and supporting farmers’ livelihoods that can balance their immediate needs against those of long-term sustainability.

An independent producer organisation, G's Growers has been working with Cranfield for several years as part of a strategic relationship.

In the case of remote sensing, G's didn't have the in-house expertise to take advantage of the changing technologies and how it could be put to practical use.

G’s Growers has more than 20 grower members in the UK and Spain, supplying speciality crops to consumers across the UK, Europe and North America. The G's land bank, estimated at more than 11,000 hectares, is in Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Kent, West Sussex, Dorset, West Midlands and the Murcia region of southern Spain. It's a large area - for these kinds of crops - which also involves a highly diverse mixture of land types. This means challenges for managing the crops, particularly due to the short crop cycles and small windows for any intervention from an agronomist or grower in response to problems.

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (ktp.innovateuk.org) was set up with G’s Growers and Cranfield to look at emerging remote sensing technologies and their application in the production of high value horticultural crops. A pilot study to test the performance of several commercial UAVs was carried out in nine lettuce and onion fields in Cambridgeshire. Very high resolution natural colour and near-infrared cameras were mounted on different platforms, including fixed wing and quad-copter aircraft. In order to cover large field areas, individual image frames were automatically ‘stitched’ together using specialist software using a computer vision technique called ‘Structure from Motion’. Then for each field the digital numbers for each image pixel element are calibrated and converted into the digital information that is then used to make decisions. The final interpreted images are presented to the growers either as maps, web services or straight to Google maps on their tablets. These images provide an update on what's growing on the ground in terms of the extent of the canopy and any indications of limited growth, of pests and disease. This information is crossreferenced against data on the variation of soil

types and weather to build up a more accurate picture of all the factors involved and possible impacts on yields. Monitoring also helps with risk analysis, also looking at the nature of the surrounding fields or area and how this might be affecting the crops. The data can then be used to target the necessary inputs - increased levels of fertiliser, or pest control intervention with the aim of creating more consistency in yields across the fields. Access to this level of data helps with predicting performance and market yields, building up a picture over time of growth and performance and how variations are most effectively addressed.

Following on from the initial trial G's Growers is extending the remote sensing approach to 30 fields, with the longer-term aim of implementing a real-time crop monitoring and management system across all its land bank. One of the main lessons from the trials has been the importance of speed of data delivery, especially with salad crops as they have a short growth cycle. Making more timely and accurate management decisions depends on the next day delivery of analysed data. There has also been the issue of the most cost effective means of gathering data. UAVs need two people to operate them successfully, and are limited in terms of the weight of on-board equipment and sensors. In the next phase of research G's Growers is looking at using very light manned aircraft as an alternative. And as the technology advances further there is the potential for monitoring to include detailed diagnostics and automated treatment.

The Soil & Agrifood Institute at Cranfield University has been developing innovative digital classification approaches based on a combination of different types of remote sensing data alongside detailed information from the ground to create a more accurate picture of the extent of production, and also the likely levels of yield both now and for the future Dr Toby Waine is a Lecturer in Applied Remote Sensing in the Soil & Agrifood Institute at Cranfield University. Emma Garfield is R&D Agronomist at G’s Growers Ltd in Cambridgeshire.

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| Arable

Early Phoma spore release needs quick response Early Phoma infection, on the small leaves of more susceptible oilseed rape varieties, is worst case scenario facing growers this season, warn leading oilseed rape specialists. eavy rain over recent weeks will have primed last season’s oilseed rape Phoma cankers on stem debris to produce infective ascospores. Forecast repeated rain showers could now trigger the release of more spores – which have the potential for early infections that are by far the most damaging for plant health and yield.

The risk has been heightened this season by delayed sowing of some crops - with later emerging smaller plants being more vulnerable to disease.

Furthermore, the most productive varieties that have been sown are, for the most part, more susceptible to the Phoma pathogen.

Pathologist Professor Bruce Fitt, of the University of Hertfordshire, has warned that early Phoma leaf

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spotting is likely to have the greatest impact on crop yields.

“Leaf spots typically occur a week to 10 days after ascospores land on the leaf, when the pathogen then moves down the leafstalk to the stem,” he advised. “In warmer early autumn conditions, the whole process is faster.

“Once Phoma gets into the plant stem, it can no longer be controlled by fungicides. Earlier development of stem cankers in the spring has been shown have greatest effect on end crop yield.”

Research published by the AHDB has identified that Phoma remains a serious disease affecting oilseed rape, and a cause of substantial yield losses.

Syngenta Field Technical Manager, James Southgate, highlighted this season’s infection risk is up to four weeks earlier than experienced in recent years.

“Syngenta weather records have

Glyphosate resistance threats Use glyphosate in stale seedbeds with care, says WRAG. hile WRAG and AHDB emphasise there are currently no known cases of glyphosate resistance in UK weeds, the guidelines build on global experience to help growers maintain the effectiveness of glyphosate as a weed control option.

Glyphosate has been around for 40 years and has become one of the most frequently used herbicides across UK crop production.

Increasing resistance to selective herbicides – especially in grassweeds within UK arable cropping systems – and a reduction in available chemistry means the pressure to use glyphosate as a stale seedbed management tool, in particular, is increasing and it is vital to retain its effectiveness.

Without the use of glyphosate, a potential loss of yield and quality would occur across all cropping systems. In particular, it has been estimated that a 20% yield loss would occur without the use of glyphosate pre-drilling.

James Clarke, WRAG Chair and Science and Business Development Manager at ADAS, said: “Globally, 31 weed species have been reported to have developed resistance to glyphosate, so WRAG drafted the guidelines to help agronomists

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calculated that the trigger point for spore release has already been exceeded for virtually all of the UK. Every period of intermittent dry and wet weather will result in further spore production.”

With the high risk and early disease pressure, James advocated growers should treat crops with Plover as soon as the threshold is reached. However, on small plants or susceptible varieties Plover treatment should be considered at the first signs of leaf spotting.

James pointed out that Plover is more effective in the knock-back control of Phoma during the latent phase of the disease, between spore germination and the emergence of leaf lesions. “This could prove especially useful this season, with the early infection and fast development.

“The rule is to always prioritise smaller plants and susceptible varieties first,” he advised. Eight out of the top 10 oilseed rape varieties on the recommended lists for the east & west and the north have a Phoma stem canker disease resistance rating of six or less, which is considered

susceptible.

“Plover has consistently proven the most cost effective treatment for Phoma control,” reported James. “Importantly for later emerging smaller plants this season, it has no growth regulatory effects on the crop, which will not slow plant development before the winter.

“Plover is also effective in targeting Light Leaf Spot in the autumn, providing growers with a strong start to the control programme, and enabling a targeted LLS spray in the spring,” he added.

and growers maintain UK efficacy.

“A number of high-risk practices are being increasingly deployed on UK farms which could drive the evolution of glyphosate resistance in UK weeds – including multiple glyphosate applications, sublethal doses and suboptimal application timing – and we wanted to be proactive in highlighting the risks and promoting best practice.

“We have pulled together the latest information, including lessons from global experience, to present key points to ensure the efficacy of this important active in weed control is maintained.”

The new Minimising the risk of glyphosate resistance guidelines include four simple and key messages, supported by more detailed evidence and guidance.

Minimising the risk of glyphosate resistance: key messages 1. Prevent survivors: Avoid repeat applications to surviving plants 2. Maximise efficacy: Apply the right dose rate (reduced rates increase the risk of reduced efficacy), at the right timing, in the right conditions 3. Use alternatives: Use nonchemical options (such as cultivation), where practical, and use other herbicides in sequence Monitor success: Remove survivors and report potential resistance issues to your advisor and/or the product manufacturer.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Arable

Crop breeding: Is it all in the genes?

Advances in DNA techniques continue to revolutionise crop breeding methods. xciting advances in the role genes play in oil seed rape pod shatter are one of the new developments in crop breeding being discussed at Agri-Tech East’s ‘New Innovations in Crop Breeding’ Pollinator at Norwich Research Park on the 13th October 2015.

For over 10,000 years, farmers have selected crops they wanted to breed on their characteristics. The cereal crops with the longest ears were selected to increase yield and shorter stems to reduce lodging in bad weather.

The discovery of DNA gave the scientific basis for crop improvement. More recently some plant genomes have been sequenced and researchers are now discovering what genes control which processes, leading to new developments and techniques for crop breeding.

Professor Lars Ostergaard, from the John Innes Centre, is researching the Alcatraz gene and other genes that regulate pod shattering in oilseed rape. He says: “In wild plants seed dispersal needs to be as efficient as possible to ensure success of the next generation. However, farmers want to maintain the seeds on the crop until harvest so seed dispersal was gradually bred out of cereals, such as wheat, barley and rice, over thousands of years.

“Oil seed rape is a recent crop, and until new strains were developed in the 1970s it was unsuitable for human consumption. Production has risen dramatically as it is an excellent rotation crop. However, the genes that promote pod shattering are still active.”

Prof Ostergaard and his team are trying to find out how these genes interact. He explains: “If the Alcatraz gene is completely abolished, the seeds can never escape! What we are trying to do is fine-tune the genes that regulate pod shattering so instead of wide dispersal, or no dispersal, the seeds are released at the optimal time.”

Using conventional breeding methods to incorporate a beneficial trait takes around 7 years. Rapid breeding methods can accelerate this process but the timescales are still long, requiring 4 or 5 breeding seasons.

Chris Tapsell is from KWS, a global company that focuses on plant breeding. He says: “Breeding wheat is difficult as its genome is massive – over five times that of humans – so it hasn’t yet been fully sequenced. However, in crops where such sequencing data is available it is possible to more easily determine the genes that control a desired trait.

“We don’t yet have this information for wheat but what we do know is that some areas of DNA, called quantitative trait loci (QTL) are correlated to certain desirable features or phenotypes.

The QTLs can be identified in the DNA sequence using molecular markers. If the markers are found in a particular plant this generally confirms that the desired trait is present.”

More recently, breeders have been studying a new tool that it’s hoped will further improve the efficiency of breeding and increase ‘Genetic Gain’ (the annual improvement in a trait such as yield). This new breed technique is called genomic selection.

Molecular markers across the whole of the wheat DNA are used to access a specific trait and give individual breeding lines a predicted ‘Breeding Value’, which is then used by the breeder for selection purposes.

However, a vast amount of information is generated in this process and we need to make sure these predictions are robust.

Chris says: “The quantity of data required to prove these links are accurate are huge and expensive to collect, requiring complex analysis. We still need to show if this is cost effective in terms of the benefit over current rapid breeding methods.”

Professor Lars Ostergaard and Chris Tapsell will both be speaking about their work before the meeting takes on a ‘speed dating’ format allowing participants to discuss problems and solutions in relation to crop breeding.

Agri-Tech East’s New Innovations in Crop Breeding Pollinator will take place at Norwich Research Park, Centrum, Norwich, NR4 7UG at 4pm on 13th October, 2015.

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| Arable

Aim for best practice against blackgrass, despite late harvest Regardless of harvest delays, farmers seeking to stay on top of blackgrass should not cut corners in their control strategies, says Dow AgroSciences. he past season has seen many farmers make considerable investment in tackling blackgrass, including increased use of fallow land, spring-sown cereals and break crops, according to Dow AgroSciences’ cereal weed control expert Stuart Jackson.

“All the evidence of recent years shows that the only way to prevent blackgrass building up in fields is to use a full programme of cultural and chemical controls starting with a stale seedbed after harvest.

“Some farmers may be anxious about the time a stale seedbed can take. However, unlike previous seasons, there is plenty of moisture in the ground to encourage swift germination of grass weeds,” says Mr Jackson. “What’s more, it is well-established that later drilling is another important part of an effective blackgrass strategy.”

Seedbed preparation is important. Ploughing may be necessary after oilseed rape or a break crop, particularly where blackgrass control in

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these crops was poor or where product labels stipulate ploughing prior to sowing the next crop. However, where cereals follow cereals it is better to minimally till to keep blackgrass seeds near the surface where stale seedbeds and residual chemicals can work best, especially in a year where control levels within the cereal crops have been better.

Once the new crop is drilled, an effective pre-emergence residual is the next vital step in the blackgrass control programme.

“All our trials data shows that missing this step out is a false economy,” says Mr Jackson.

Dow AgroSciences recommend treatments based on flufenacet and pendimethalin.

However, it is important to ring the changes in terms of mode of action to delay the development of herbicide resistance to these vital active ingredients.

The final step to complete the programme is a post-emergence contact spray, such as Dow’s UNITE (pyroxsulam + flupyrsulfuronmethyl).

“Timing is absolutely critical for this final step

to be really effective,” says Mr Jackson. “The key is to treat small, actively growing blackgrass plants. These are the most sensitive to treatment and control will be most effective.

“Time and again, our trials show that delaying treatment leads to poor control compared to early treatments.”

UNITE not only offers blackgrass control as effective as any treatment on the market, it also delivers control of a range of broad-leaved weeds and gives farmers flexibility in their rotation as it has no restrictions on cultivations or sowing after harvest.

Record yield for miscanthus crop Norfolk farmer Bill Lewis has seen a record yield on his miscanthus harvest this year, and yet the crop was not quite two years old. chieving a tremendous 8.82 tonnes per hectare, the result is the largest documented on a second year crop to date.

Typically, the first miscanthus harvest comes three years after planting, and is around half this tonnage.

This yield increases each year, to mature crops yielding 12 – 18 tonnes per hectare for the rest of its 20 year plus crop life.

The trend to harvesting just two years post planting is likely to increase according to miscanthus specialists Terravesta, and offers growers a quicker return.

“We’re well ahead of our budgeted figures with this increased yield, and next year it should double,” says Bill Lewis.

“In 2013 we made the decision to plant 15

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hectares of a field that historically was poor permanent pasture, prone to flooding. We tried growing winter wheat, sugar beet and linseed, but they all failed.

“It’s the sort of land that’s difficult to establish crops on, due to water logging. The land is low lying, at 20 foot below sea level, so the surrounding land drains into it. This meant we were spending a fortune on preparing the seed beds, and on inputs,” he says.

Bill attributes the bumper miscanthus yield to careful planning, planting preparation and aftercare for the first 12 months after planting.

“We had 90% establishment, and the support we’ve received from Terravesta has been invaluable. They advised on our herbicide regime, which is very important in the establishment year, and we treated to control

twitch grass and meadow grass. We also erected fencing to ward off rabbits, which can be a threat to the crop early on.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Energy

Installation of boilers that produce cost effective heating In today’s culture of trying to cut costs, Farmers and Landowners are pushing to install Biomass Boilers in a bid to gain control of the ever increasing price war between Oil and LPG.

t Equal T, we are proud to be able to offer Farmers the accessibility of putting this into practice, whilst having the opportunity of claiming a monetary return from the Government, via the RHI incentive for the usage of heat.

Starting off from an agricultural background, the team at Equal T have a deep understanding of what Farmers and Landowners require, from keeping chicken houses at correct temperatures, grain drying in large quantities, to district heating of Manor houses and cottages.

Equal T is one of the leading installers for Froling in the South West, being an accredited installer backed by British Gas. Froling produce one of the highest quality boilers available throughout Europe, and are known for their state of the art and efficient heating technology. Froling

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firewood, wood chip and pellet boilers are being used successfully throughout Europe.

As the founder of Equal T, Gary Thorne has over 20 years experience in the biomass industry working with many different boilers. Along with this experience he also provides troubleshooting and consulting in all areas of biomass and plumbing. Design and consultation are at the forefront in our service to you, making sure that what is required by you is what you receive, from the first site survey through to the installation’s final commissioning.

With a vast array of differing boiler sizes installed, the team at Equal T are able to custom fit your installation with confidence, allowing you to gain control of effective renewable heating.

Please call 01823 681626, email info@equal-t.co.uk or visit www.equal-t.co.uk for more information.

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Getting the best out of biomass at NextGen Leading biomass heating provider Rural Energy will be sharing its expertise and leading a seminar at Nextgen, one of the most important business events in the renewables calendar, taking place at Stoneleigh Park in Coventry from 7th – 8th October 2015. ural Energy’s Bid and Estimating Manager Kevin Agutter will be sharing his knowledge as part of the in-depth seminar programme, explaining how to manage biomass technology in the long-term and achieve the lowest lifetime costs. Ideal for those considering a biomass installation or for those that already have one, Kevin’s presentation will touch upon how to get the initial design right and how to intelligently monitor a working installation, as well as examining servicing best practice.

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“With a strategic partnership with the Renewable Energy Association (REA), Nextgen is set to be a top quality exhibition” Taking place at The Sustainable Heat for Buildings & Processes Theatre at 10.00 on Thursday 8th October, Kevin’s talk is not to be missed by visitors looking to learn about the real life issues of operating biomass boilers.

What’s more, Rural Energy will be showcasing a number of working Herz biomass boilers on stand E15. With experts on hand to answer any questions about sizing, funding, RHI calculations or practical project issues, Rural

Energy will provide a one-stop shop for visitors wanting to learn more about biomass. Offering a full turnkey service from design to finance solutions, installation and on-going service and maintenance, Rural Energy is the ideal partner for sustainable heating projects.

Kevin commented: “With a strategic partnership with the Renewable Energy Association (REA), Nextgen is set to be a top quality exhibition. Attending the show is a fantastic way to share our expertise and engage with the wider industry and new customers. We have set out our stand to be as informative and interactive as possible and I’m confident that everyone who attends will find what they are looking for.”

Nextgen is free to register and attend and will bring together renewable energy professionals from across the industry to network, showcase new products and discover opportunities for professional development. Attended by over 2,100 delegates last year, Nextgen also offers a free CPD accredited education programme.

For more information about Rural Energy please visit www.ruralenergy.co.uk or call 0203 189 0676 For more information about Nextgen please visit www.nextgenexpo.co.uk

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| Energy

Plant nursery are growing rapidly with Wood Energy Plant production is positively blooming at Pinetops Nurseries after the firm moved into new, purpose built facilities heated with the help of a 999kW Binder wood chip boiler, supplied and installed by biomass experts Wood Energy. inetops Nurseries first opened for business in 1959 and is now established as one of the leading producers of pot lilies. The new site near Efford offers greater room for expansion along with modern new facilities including a 2.2ha glasshouse block. In the past the cost of heating the glass houses for the firm’s autumn poinsettias had limited profitability from the crop, however by expanding

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production, and replacing gas heating with biomass, the economics of production are expected to be greatly improved.

The 999kW Binder biomass boiler provides base heating for the facility, helping to maintain ideal growing conditions all year round. The boiler features a range of premium features including automated de-ashing, automatic cleaning of the heat exchanger and a speed-control on all fans to minimise electric power consumption. The boiler is

designed for around the clock performance, using lambda regulation to achieve outstanding efficacy ratings which can exceed 92%.

As a mark of the high quality, the unit is available with extended 8 or 10 year warranties, helping to maximise returns on the RHI scheme.

Wood Energy supplies chip, pellet and log boiler systems ranging in size from 200kW to 10MW. The company’s team of inhouse designers can advise on

boiler applications up to 10MW; and skilled commissioning engineers have successfully installed over 120,000kW of renewable heating across more than 500 projects to date - with an after-sales service that ensures both optimum performance throughout the lifetime of a boiler and a guaranteed provision for the non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive.

Call 01454 414139 or visit www.woodenergy.com

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Energy

Act now to benefit from positive FIT rates With just six months to go until the government implements changes to its Feed-in Tariff (FIT) subsidy scheme, CooperÖstlund is calling for organisations to finalise and commission their anaerobic digestion (AD) projects to benefit from positive funding rates. he leading gas engine specification and maintenance expert, which provides design, installation and servicing for sites across the UK, believes now is the time to act ahead of the 31 March 2016 deadline.

For new sites in particular, the removal of preliminary accreditation from 1 October 2015 means registering applications must be a priority. Furthermore, with a 14 week lead time to effectively install and commission a combined heat and power (CHP) engine, even sites with planning permission granted need to think about specifying the correct

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engine for their specific requirements.

Johan Östlund, director at CooperÖstlund, comments: “Since its introduction in 2010, the government’s FIT scheme has provided a hugely positive financial incentive for the installation of renewable energy generation technologies. This support has seen sustainability soar in the UK, significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

“However, with degression strategies in place to reduce these incentives over time and uncertainty over their long-term existence, we need to make the most of government support while it lasts and move projects from

development to completion before it’s too late. What’s more, with preliminary accreditation set to be dissolved from next month, now is the perfect time to act.”

The next round of FIT degressions, a strategy introduced to slowly reduce reliance on governmental support for renewable energy, will take place on 31 March 2016. After this date, the tariff for AD facilities under 500kW will reduce from 10.54 to 9.36p/kWh, while facilities greater than 500kW will drop from 9.16 to 8.68p/kWh. Johan continues: “Although acting quickly to secure beneficial FIT rates is key, even more important is making informed choices surrounding AD

technology – in particular when it comes to specifying CHP engines.

From our experience, protecting against downtime should be the priority. Two engines are often better than one – giving the peace of mind that if one engine goes down, you’ll still generate energy and continue to make money. In fact, to guarantee minimal downtime, specifying multiple engines can provide the perfect solution for 365 day operation.”

CooperÖstlund has significant experience in the specification, installation and ongoing maintenance of gas engine equipment. For more information about the company, or to learn more about the latest projects, visit www.cooperostlund.com

See us at NextGen 2015 Stand F20

36 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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| Arable

Image: from left to right Stephen, Rhona & John Mitchell (Rumbletonrig)

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October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Energy

Feedstock storage taking up too much space at AD plants - claim Too much storage area is being taken up for feedstock storage at AD plants - according to one leading designer and manufacturer of precast concrete elements for retaining and storage structures. orkshire-based Whites Concrete says designs of some walls can take up a far too large a footprint.

“On a particularly large site, this might not seem like a major issue”, said Stephen Casey, Project Engineer at Whites Concrete. “However, with plenty of AD operators already adding extra storage to their sites, space

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can soon be at a premium, so it seems unwise to create a problem that can so easily be avoided”.

Casey pointed to a recent example where a customer enquired about a 48 metres storage width. To achieve this, his plans showed an overall construction width of 64 metres, using almost 35 per cent more in materials, costs and space.

“Everyone in the AD industry wants to put their green

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credentials to the fore”, he added, “but there should be far more thought for the long term about footprint, as well as its practicalities. Specification and positioning are crucial because you’ve got to plan ahead for the next couple of decades with your AD plant. In the short and long term, disproportionate design will make a dent in your investment”.

Casey also pointed to the design of feed clamps, adding:

“Of course design depends very much on the types of feedstock, but with digesters often requiring significant volumes of silage, large capacities will be required. To meet this need, clamps up to 3m or 4m high can be built to give good compaction in a smaller area. Surely it is more economical all round to maximize your space and maximize the amount of gas produced”.

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| Energy

Farmers discuss open access and renewable energy at farm visit The Meirionnydd branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales organised a farm visit at Castell Hen, Parc near Bala, to discuss renewable energy schemes, Glastir, open access to the country side and a variety of other agricultural policies. n conjunction with FWAG Cymru, Dolgellau - FUW Meirionnydd county chairman Euros Puw and his wife Haf opened the gates to their farm for visitors to see the land, stock and the hydroelectric scheme which serves the electricity requirements of the farm.

“This was an ideal opportunity for visitors to discuss the latest agricultural policies and see how the family at Castell Hen are pioneers in renewable energy,” said FUW Meirionnydd county executive officer Huw Jones.

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“There has been a hydro scheme at the farm since 1937 to produce electricity for their own use” “We further discussed how disappointing the sudden changes to the Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) process are, and the effects of predicted future cuts on all sectors involved in hydropower.”

Castell Hen is situated at approx. 2 miles from the village of Parc near Bala and the family farm extends to 740 acres, together with grazing rights on nearby common land.

The majority is mountain land with approx.

25 acres kept annually for silage making, 60 acres improved grazing land, and 100 acres of semi improved ‘ffridd’.

High quality stock are kept, which includes 650 Welsh mountain ewes, 240 of which are crossed with Texel rams every year, with the remainder purebred. There is also a herd of 19 Limousin cows. Calves are sold as store between 17-23 months at the livestock market in Dolgellau.

Discussing the current Welsh Government consultation on open access to the countryside, FUW director of policy Dr Nick Fenwick told visitors to the event that: “The FUW supports responsible access to Wales’ countryside and understands the important role access plays in terms of health and wellbeing as well as Wales’ economy.

As a union, he said, we fully support any reduction in the cost and time associated with extinguishing or moving public rights of way, but object to any increase in public access to the countryside.

Wales has approximately 16,200 miles of footpaths, 3100 miles of bridle-paths, and 1200 miles of byways. Since 1998 the area of land

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accessible by right to the public has increased three-fold, National Trails have been created and extended, and 4,700 miles of rights of way have been opened up under improvement plans.

“Despite this, the proportion of Welsh residents undertaking outdoor recreation frequently has not altered to any extent. The FUW therefore does not believe there is evidence that further liberalising access will achieve the objectives of improving responsible access, health and wellbeing.

“However, such moves will inevitably increase existing problems in terms of irresponsible access, damage to crops and animals, costs for farmers and tenants and the further erosion of the rights of owners, occupiers and other right-holders,” added Dr Fenwick.

Delegates heard Dr Fenwick explain that ordnance survey maps and other sources available free of charge to the general public clearly show open-access areas and rights of way, as do signs on footpaths throughout Wales, yet even when clearly signposted and close to urban areas, such rights are often little used.

He explained that current legislation does not represent any obstacle to encouraging access to those areas where rights already exist, including close to urban areas, and given the extent of Wales’ rights of way and openaccess land close to urban areas, there is no evidence to suggest that a change in legislation is necessary to increase the use of existing or new rights of way.

“The suggestion that the Scottish model of access could be applied in Wales without adverse effects does not take into account the fact that Wales’ population density is more than twice that of Scotland, and that the distribution of population and geography of Wales differs significantly to that in Scotland,” he added.

The consultation acknowledges problems caused in Scotland due to dog fouling, dogs not under control, and tension between anglers and canoeists – such problems already exist in Wales and would be exacerbated by implementing the Scottish model in Wales.

“We also believe that any proposals in relation to increased public access should be accompanied by legislation which ensures owners, occupiers and other right holders who have purchased or rented their rights are

compensated by the Welsh Government for the impact of any changes, including in relation to the running their businesses,” said Dr Fenwick.

Following a discussion session on renewable energy schemes, Glastir and other agricultural policies with FWAG Cymru chairman Tegwyn Jones and Alun Fred Jones AM, who chairs the Environment and Sustainability committee at the Welsh Assembly, visitors took the opportunity to see the farm and hydro-electric scheme in action.

“There has been a hydro scheme at the farm since 1937 to produce electricity for their own use. The scheme was updated in 2003 and they are also currently in the process of setting up a new separate hydro scheme. It was very interesting to see how the scheme works and I would like to thank the Puw family for hosting this event and Birch Farm Plastics for sponsoring the refreshments on the day. It has been a most informative and enjoyable day,” added Mr Jones.

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| Renewables

RenewableUK 2015 annual conference & exhibition Free Public Day for farmers & landowners: Date: 8 October 2015, Location: ACC, Liverpool, UK. he 37th Annual Conference and Exhibition is at the heart of the international debate on the benefits of wind energy and is an excellent opportunity to learn ways to generate your own electricity, reduce your energy overheads and be updated on the impacts of the recently published changes to the Feed-in-Tariff.

With Day 3 of the exhibition open to the public, delegates get free access to the main

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exhibition with over 100 international exhibitors; conference sessions for farmers and landowners; a dedicated small & medium wind exhibition section with leading developers, manufacturers and consultants; and a busy renewables career’s fair.

The Public Day is aimed at landowners, farmers, community groups and domestic customers. This is the event for you if you are in search of detailed and up to date information on what the changes to the Feed-in Tariff mean

for you; the installation of small or medium scale wind turbines; updates on planning, and/or searching for the right type of turbine, or organisational structure to suit your site or your community.

Don’t forget that RenewableUK 2015 Public Day is open to the public and is free to attend.

Pre-registration is essential. Register online today for your free pass.

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| Renewables

Scottish renewables firm launch largest solar farm in Scotland Absolute Solar and Wind Limited Have Completed Scotland’s Largest Solar Farm with Mackies of Scotland. bsolute Solar and Wind Limited in partnership with pioneering family business Mackies of Scotland have today announced the completion of the country’s ‘largest solar farm’.

Consisting of 7,000 solar PV panels generating 1.5million kWh of energy and producing a saving of 850,000 kgs of Co2 emissions each year; the installation is the largest in Scotland to go live.

The site is expected to generate enough energy to produce more than 4milion litres of ice cream a year.

Founded in 2007 by Mark and Richard Newall, Glasgow based Absolute Solar and Wind was born from the ambition to make the world a greener, more economic place. The company were chosen to install the impressive solar farm as part of Mackies’ efforts to become a carbon neutral business.

The installation of the 1.8MW Solar Farm at the fourth-generation family run businesses in

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Aberdeenshire site is not the first time the two businesses have worked together. Earlier this year Absolute installed a T4 40kW Chip Biomass boiler and 2 x 199kW Biomass boilers in their Aberdeenshire based production factory.

Director and Head of Solar at Absolute Solar and Wind, Andrew McGown, said: “We understand this project to be the largest solar farm installed and connected to the grid in Scotland, and it is a project we are incredibly excited to have been involved in. Solar makes great sense, enough sunlight falls on the earth's surface every hour to meet world energy demand for an entire year. It’s great to see forward thinking companies like Mackies embracing this.”

“As with any new installation, we work directly with the client to understand their needs, their business location and their future ambitions. From this, we are able to make recommendations with regards to the best renewable solution available to them.

“After growing significantly over

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the years, this latest project for Absolute is testament to the core values the company is built on and our desire to be market leaders in the field of renewable energy.

Similarly, Mackies has over 100 year’s history and it’s fantastic to be on their journey to become a more energy efficient and green business.”

Managing Director of Mackies, Mac Mackie, said: “As a business we have always seen the value of renewable energy, from both an

economic and an environmental perspective.

“We’re constantly challenging ourselves to be as green as possible, and working with Absolute we feel well placed to ensure that we will always get the best out of our renewable solutions.”

Andrew McGown from Absolute adds: “Look no further than the business plan of both companies and you can understand why this partnership is a perfect match.

'Essential' government rethinks Feed-in Tariff proposals Trade body analysis shows Government solar plans risk leaving industry with just £7million of support over 3 years. s reported in The Times newspaper today, new analysis from the Solar Trade Association has uncovered that the Government is planning on spending even less on solar over the next three years than many commentators originally thought.

In the Feed-in Tariff Review (FiT) consultation published by the Department of Energy and Climate Change three weeks ago, draconian cuts to the tariff for domestic solar of up to 87% are proposed, together with stringent maximum deployment caps.

The STA has conducted a detailed analysis of the Government proposals which shows they would result in a maximum of just £7million of support on new solar deployment under the Feed-in Tariff scheme from next year, over the next 3 years (2016-2018).

Spending will fall from a current run rate of less than £70million per year to £2million per year, or a 98% cut in the total budget.

The solar industry has had all other forms of support removed over the summer, and there is no clarity on future auction rounds for largescale solar under the Contracts for Difference system.

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As a comparison, £7million is less than what Buckinghamshire County Council spends on potholes in a single year.

This is out of a total low carbon energy budget called the ‘Levy Control Framework’ projected to be £7.6billion by 2020.

To put the £7million budget into context, that means that over the next three years 0.04% of the Levy Control Framework budget is being spent on new solar projects.

Paul Barwell, CEO of the Solar Trade Association, commented: “Allocating £7million of support for solar power – the world's fastest growing clean energy solution – is absurd. This does not constitute a serious energy policy.

"Solar can transform choice and competition in electricity markets, so the government’s short-term thinking on bills risks condemning hardworking families to a future of higher energy costs.

“This 98% cut in support is extreme and will decimate the nation’s most popular source of energy, and puts at risk over 20,000 solar jobs. The UK will be left behind if we turn our back on a global solar revolution.”

“We have a plan to maintain a robust and growing solar industry and are keen to work

with Government to find an effective solar policy that also delivers value for money. It is essential the Government rethinks its proposals – jobs and businesses are at risk.”

“Given how close solar is to being subsidyfree – which these cuts will delay – giving this vital technology one last push is clearly in the interest of consumers. Currently Government is set to trip its solar revolution up at the last hurdle, which makes no sense at all.”

Momentum is building behind efforts to urge the Government to rethink its plans for the Feed-in Tariff and solar energy.

The Confederation of British Industry said last week that the "roll-back of renewables policies” was sending a worrying signal to businesses. The statutory Committee on Climate Change said that funding should not be withdrawn “too early”. Energy UK, the body that represents energy utilities, as well as other big business names such as DuPont have also called for the Government to “urgently reconsider” the proposals. The CEO of Shell recently said solar “will be the dominant backbone of our energy system”

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Education

Inspirational farmers recognised at prestigious Education Awards Farmers and farming organisations have been rewarded for their excellent work in promoting education at the Bayer/FACE Awards across five categories, with a farmer from Shropshire named as the overall winner. he Bayer / FACE Awards are organised by the charitable organisation Farming and Countryside Education (FACE) and Bayer CropScience to recognise the often unsung work many farmers do to promote visits to farms and provide access to high quality educational materials.

This year’s winners were announced at a ceremony held at The Skinners’ Hall, in central London, in the presence of supporters of educational initiatives from the agricultural and food industry, education authorities and centres and the media. BBC presenter and journalist Tom Heap announced the five winners:

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• Julie White and Nick Platt from the WELLIES Project in Sudbury, Derbyshire who won the ‘Access’ Award for demonstrating outstanding achievements in encouraging access for pupils with special needs, disaffected students or disadvantaged young people.

• Iona Corbett from Rectory Farm in Epwell, Oxfordshire who won the ‘Future of Farming Champion’ category for making an outstanding contribution to improving young people’s understanding of the food and farming sector, across all ages and through a variety of activities.

• Claire Morris from The College Farm in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire who won the ‘Farm School Partnership’ Award for building successful

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relationships with schools and making a valuable and sustained contribution to school life both on and away from the farm.

• Graham Ward OBE from STC Research Foundation in Cawood, North Yorkshire who won the ‘Inspiring Educator’ category for having initiated innovative and unusual means to create inspiring learning experiences, both on the farm and in the classroom.

• Trevor Wheeler from Brynmawr Farm in Newcastle on Clun, Shropshire who won the ‘Biodiversity’ Award for being successful in highlighting the importance of a specific species or of biodiversity in general to young people.

Mr Wheeler, who farms around 80ha with his son Paul and manages a further 108ha in two wildlife reserves for Shropshire Wildlife Trust, was also named overall winner for his inspiring work with children and students from all over the world.

Around 300 children visit the farm annually and do a wide range of activities from feeding lambs to servicing machinery. “If you get children out on farm they learn so much more than reading about it in a book,” Mr Wheeler said. “You can see by the expressions on their faces, how much they have enjoyed it.”

The event is a highlight for FACE and Bayer, said Janet Hickinbottom, National Education Officer at FACE. “It is something we look forward to with great anticipation and with pride. At the judging stage we do not know what to expect but we are never disappointed; far from it, we are

overwhelmed by the stories we hear of the tremendous work being carried out by farmers and farm educators. The Awards are an opportunity to shine a light on these often unacknowledged individuals who are doing so much to help children and young adults understand the connection between farming and their daily lives.”

This year’s winners were announced at a ceremony held at The Skinners’ Hall, in central London, in the presence of supporters of educational initiatives from the agricultural and food industry, education authorities and centres and the media. BBC presenter and journalist Tom Heap announced the five winners Andrew Orme, Managing Director at Bayer CropScience, said: “This event demonstrated the amazing efforts that farmers and others here in the UK go to in order to reconnect people and where their food comes from. With an increasing global population and less land to grow our food, this is a vital part of all our work and, as the UK’s leading supplier of crop protection products, we are delighted to have championed these Awards.”

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| Education

An ambitious plan for Countryside Classroom 28th September saw the launch of Countryside Classroom. t is the largest ever partnership of organisations committed to helping children learn about food, farming and the natural environment, and is led by FACE (Farming and Countryside Education). It is the vision of Countryside Classroom that by making it easier for schools and teachers across the UK to access resources, places to visit and people to ask, more will embrace food, farming and the natural environment as essential components of a broad and balanced curriculum. As a result of this, every child will have the opportunity to learn about and experience these topics in diverse ways that are increasingly supported by experiences outside the classroom.

To support that ambitious aim Countryside Classroom have launched Countryside Passports up and down the country at school events. From Castle

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Cary to Accrington hundreds of pupils have been the first in the UK to get their hands on their passport.

The booklet contains 18 challenges that will give children first-hand experience of growing their own produce, observing and caring for wildlife and tasting their own recipes.

We asked some leading farm, food and natural environment experts including Raymond Blanc and Adam Henson to share their dream for what all children should be able to learn, experience or taste by the time they leave school.

Raymond Blanc said: "I really want children to really understand food, love food, for food to be part of their life because it is so enriching.

Actually food connects with absolutely everything; to know how it’s grown, to know about the soil, to know about the magic of growing food, to know about connecting food with love, with family, with eating, with good

health, with joy, with celebration. That’s what I really want."

Adam Henson said: "Learning about farming is essential for children. It helps them build a greater understanding of the vital role farmers play in producing good quality food and managing our valuable countryside in a sustainable way."

Dan Corlett, CEO of FACE said today: "We have a big vision for Countryside Classroom – we want it to become the trusted place that teachers and schools go to access all they need relating to food, farming and the natural environment. We collectively want to play our part in educating children and supporting schools to share interactive, up to date and quality resources”. He continued: "Today is just the start - we want to hear from partners, charities or local experts who want to join Countryside Classroom too."

Foodies of the future: new food apprenticeships at Bicton College Bicton College has welcomed seven food apprentices through its doors this week. With a focus on butchery, brewing and food manufacturing; the new apprenticeships are perfect fodder for those interested in furthering their career in the food and drink manufacturing industry. mma Pate, course manager of Apprenticeships in Food Manufacturing for the Cornwall College Group says: “We are delighted to be extending our successful Food Manufacturing Apprenticeship Programme into Devon with the launch of our first cohort of students out of our Bicton College campus. This new group of apprentices will be specialising in a range of areas including Butchery, Brewing and general food industry skills. We are working with a

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Students completing these courses and the apprenticeships may move on directly to careers in the industry or continue to further education in food and drink manufacturing such as a FdSc in Food Studies

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number of employers who include Complete Meats of Axminster, Gribbles Butchers of Exeter, Little Pods of Exeter and New Lion Brewery of Totnes.”

The apprentices enrolled on the courses will be attending college one day a month to study subjects that cover the safe preparation of food processing, food hygiene and quality control as well as transferrable skills such as practical steps to increase personal productivity and management techniques.

The apprenticeships aim to provide the students with the skills and confidence to grow their careers. Of his first day on campus, Mark Warnett of Bakers the Butchers in Newton Abbot said: “I am excited to learn a skill that I can use for the rest of my life.”

While Matt Kenyon of R.D Johns also of Newton Abbot said: “Butchery has been my passion for many years now, so I want to be a professional butcher and [this apprenticeship]

is the perfect vehicle for that.”

Bicton College will be expanding on its food and drink apprenticeships with a range of short courses. These will cover both legislative and non-legislative topics including food safety, HACCP, food labelling and sensory assessment. Students completing these courses and the apprenticeships may move on directly to careers in the industry or continue to further education in food and drink manufacturing such as a FdSc in Food Studies.

For more information on the range of agricultural and animal management courses available across The Cornwall College Group visit www.Bicton.ac.uk or call 01395 562400.

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| Education

Developing future talent takes priority at Titan Steel Wheels Investing in the future generations of the UK’s engineering industry is clearly a priority for Titan Steel Wheels, a leading manufacturer and supplier of wheels for the off-highway vehicle industry. or the last 30 years, Titan Steel Wheels has operated an apprenticeship scheme, recruiting a number of talented apprentices that have since gone on to bigger and better things within the business, and elsewhere in their careers.

The four year apprenticeship programme offers on-the-job training, beginning with one year working at the Kidderminster based factory, where the new recruits can get to grips

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with the technical ins and outs of the manufacturing and engineering process.

In the second year, the apprentices move on to six month periods working within different core head office departments, including sales, quality control, engineering design, production planning. The final year is then spent in a department of choice, so the apprentices can hone in their skills and experience within in one specific area.

The scheme also allows participants to gain professional qualifications during the scheme,

starting with an NVQ Level 2, a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and a Higher National Diploma (HND).

Demonstrating even further commitment, Titan Steel Wheels also offers the opportunity for apprentices to work towards a degree qualification, in the form of a Mechanical Engineering Degree (BEng Hons) at Birmingham City University.

For further information about Titan, visit www.titandistributionuk.com

Walford students in 24hr plough-a-thon for charity Agriculture Students from North Shropshire College's (NSC) Walford Campus took part in the 24-hour charity plough-athon at this year's Autumn Action, hoping to raise ÂŁ5000 to ÂŁ6000 for the R. D. Park Trust, a charity that offers financial support for study tours and overseas trips. utumn Action organiser and trustee of the R. D. Park Trust, Bruce Udale, commented 'We don't charge the traders who take part, instead they make a donation to the R. D. Park Trust.

Farmers have gone through a spell of getting rid of ploughs and moving to minimum tillage systems and there has been a lot of money spent on new equipment.'

The students covered around 350 acres of ploughing duringthis event and ploughed

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solidly for 24 hours in a rota system. The land they ploughed is owned by Bruce Udale, an exgovernor of Walford. Rae Valley Tractors donated two tractors with ploughs for the event.

The plough-a-thon is part of the wider Autumn Action Event organised by Bruce and his family. This gives local suppliers, farmers, students and visitors the option to view the latest kit and machinery available and provides a great

networking opportunity.

Chris Jones, Director of NSC's Walford Campus said 'We are in the process of working out the final total raised. It was a fantastic event, huge thanks to all the students and staff who took part and raised this money for our great charity.'

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| Security

Don’t become a victim of crime when clocks go back Farmers and rural landowners are being warned to review their security arrangements before the clocks go back in a bid to reduce thefts of equipment and vehicles during the darker evenings: Dr Steffan George, MLA Development Director he Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) – the leading trade association for the locksmithing profession - is urging agricultural workers and landowners to take a closer look at what measures they implement to keep their equipment and property safe.

Here, Dr Steffan George, development director of the MLA, rounds up some of the best ways farmers can deter unwelcome visitors from their land…

Every year rural crime costs millions of pounds and causes untold anxiety across the UK. Rural areas present the greatest opportunity for thieves because of isolated houses and buildings, less lighting – especially during autumn and winter - fewer witnesses and the ease of being able to watch the owner’s movements.

Latest figures show rural theft cost an estimated £37.8m in the UK during 2014. Preventing crime in rural communities is a big issue at this time of year when farms become a popular target for criminals due to the long and dark nights, and farmers need to look at their premises and equipment with the eye of a thief.

The MLA advises farmers and rural landowners to consult an MLA-approved locksmith, who will be able to carry out a security assessment on property and recommend suitable locks and fittings, as well as providing input from a safety point of view.

Don’t be tempted to economise by buying cheap locks. It is worth investing in high quality locks, chains and padlocks, making sure that you use products that have been approved by an independent product testing house – such as Sold Secure – to provide peace of

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mind (visit www.soldsecure.com to check for their lists of approved products).

It is also important not to specify and fit locks or undertake repairs as fitting the wrong products can undermine security and affect insurance premiums and cover should the worst happen.

Ill-secured and poorly maintained sheds and outbuildings are an easy target, as they present thieves with a relatively low risk and high gain opportunity.

Maintenance is vital as rusted locks, chains, hasps and staples, cracked panes of glass and rotted frames and sills are all features that opportunistic thieves look out for, so it is essential to perform regular and thorough maintenance checks.

Where appropriate use good quality padlocks with heavy duty hasp and staple on barn and outbuilding doors. It is ideal if the locks are fitted directly to the door, with two equally spaced locks from top to bottom. Controlling access to farmyards is important and this can be achieved through the use of quality chains and padlocks being used to lock all gates.

Farm machinery and plant is a hot topic at the moment following a spate of thefts and more tractors than cars are stolen these days.

Theft of farm machinery tends to be organised and a tractor could be in a shipping container on a boat before the owner even realises it has gone. Farmers in the past have thought that they were safe in the country but organised gangs target remote locations as easier pickings.

Every year tractors worth millions of pounds are stolen from British farms. Police say many are stolen to order and shipped

abroad sometimes ending up as far away as Iraq and Afghanistan.

Tracking devices have proved popular but are of little use when your property is in another country so instead of trying to find your tractor after it has been stolen, try to stop it being stolen in the first place by locking down gates and outbuildings using locks, chains, bollards, wheel clamps, ground anchors and safes for locking keys away.

Other ways of improving security include alarms fitted to outbuildings, outdoor security lighting – such as dusk till dawn and motion sensor lighting. CCTV systems and intruder alert systems are other important considerations as deterrence by surveillance is an increasingly popular measure, along with property marking/tagging systems.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 45

| SALTEX

SALTEX 2015’s new date and venue gets industry approval The Sports, Amenities, Landscaping Trade Exhibition’s (SALTEX) move from an outdoor environment into the halls of the NEC Birmingham on the 4 and 5 November 2015 has been met with tremendous support from both exhibitors and visitors alike. A packed exhibitor list containing some of the industry’s biggest names along with confirmation of new exciting features, has ensured that this year’s exhibition is set to be the biggest and best SALTEX to date. he new, centrally located, national exhibition venue and the more convenient time of year has attracted more than 250 exhibitors representing forestry, play, groundscare machinery, artificial surfaces, natural turf, landscaping products, pest control, line marking, waste management, sports equipment, litter and landfill and engine fuels.

In fact, show organisers had to extend the show footprint by adding an extra hall to accommodate the increased interest.

Visitors from across the UK and abroad say that the new venue, and new date are key reasons behind their decisions to pre-register

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46 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

for the FREE to attend event. The NEC has well connected transport links to the rest of the country – with more than 75 per cent of the UK’s population situated within just three hours from the venue. Plus visitors who decide to travel by Virgin Rail can receive 25 per cent discount on their ticket fare. IOG members that bring their membership card to the show are eligible for a £5 car park voucher at the NEC. The new look SALTEX, which also marks the 70th anniversary of the show, will feature a comprehensive programme of FREE educational seminars and will, for the first time, combine with the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) annual Industry Awards dinner.

Visitors can attend any of the 47 educational

seminars on the show floor, hosted by partner associations and industry experts, within the two-day LEARNING LIVE programme – many of which has CPD points connected to them. The seminar theatre next to the IOG Hub will feature sports turf management panel debates with high-profile industry professionals taking centre stage. Two further theatres will feature dedicated seminars relevant to those working in the school, play, amenity, parks, arboriculture and forestry environments.

Mark Saggers, journalist and radio presenter on talkSPORT will host the ‘Gaining Ground’ turf management debates. The former Sky News and BBC sports correspondent is a regular IOG conference and awards host and

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| SALTEX

visitors to SALTEX 2015 will be pleased to see him reprising his role. The Gaining Ground theatre will be of particular interest to those with interests in fine turf and a variety of sports surfaces. Visitors to this theatre will be able to choose from a range of informative seminar sessions presented by some of the industry's national and international experts including Mark Pover - national facilities manager at the FA, Lee Jackson – head groundsman at Manchester City, Chris Wood - pitch consultant for the ECB and Simon Winman - head of club development at Rugby Football Union.

Other professional bodies supporting the show and contributing to the LEARNING LIVE programme include: The Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), The British and International Golf Greenkeepers' Association (BIGGA), The Amenity Forum, The Institute for Occupational Health, and Safety (IOSH), British Agricultural & Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) and the Sports and Play Construction Association

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(SAPCA). The Chartered Institute of Horticulture (CIH) will also host its annual conference at SALTEX. From an international perspective the LEARNING LIVE programme will feature an indepth look at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in New Zealand - the world’s only natural turf playing surface under a permanently fixed roof - by the STRI’s Dr Richard Gibbs. Phil Sharples, currently the director of pitches for Gabala FC in Azerbaijan, will focus on some of the challenges he has faced while working overseas. Bertrand Picard from Natural Grass will offer a French perspective on turfcare, while Ian Craig, regional agronomist for STRI, will relay the bizarre turf management experiences he encountered while working at the Africa Cup of Nations 2015.

For young people looking to advance their career in the groundscare industry, a half-day Young Groundsmen's Conference, sponsored

by Rigby Taylor/Top Green and organised by

the IOG's Young Board of Directors, will offer information on educational opportunities, a guide to what some of the top grounds managers are looking for in a young recruit, and a day in the life of the 2014 Young Sports Turf Student of the Year.

Hosted on the evening of the first day (4 November), the IOG Industry Awards at the Hilton Metropole is set to be the UK’s biggest celebration in groundsmanship; with 19 awards up for grabs, Alistair McGowan providing the after dinner entertainment and talkSPORT’s Mark Saggers hosting the event. Visit www.iogawards.com to book your place.

The full programme of SALTEX events will be regularly updated via www.iogsaltex.com Visitor registration to SALTEX 2015 is FREE. To confirm your attendance visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX and Facebook – www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 47

| SALTEX

Kubota launching new Grand L40-II Series Deluxe Tractor at SALTEX Market leading tractor and groundcare equipment solutions provider, Kubota, will be exhibiting its new Grand L40-II Series deluxe tractors at Saltex for the first time to the market on Stand C070 at the NEC in November. he new innovative Grand L40-II model features an integrated cab, designed specifically for operator comfort and increased productivity. Kubota’s newly branded HST Plus hydrostatic transmission advanced technology also features; delivering enhanced power, performance and durability.

The tractor has been developed to suit a wide range of user requirements, ideally suited for use by golf clubs, landscaping professionals, local authority maintenance and for the management of professional sports facilities.

Adrian Langmead, Business Development Manager for Kubota’s Groundcare division, commented: “Our ride-on mowers and compact tractors have always been popular with maintenance

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specialists working in the turf care and landscaping sectors, so the launch of the Grand L40-II Series will further enhance our position in this sector as we continue to invest in new product development.

“Kubota has been a market leader in groundcare products and Saltex is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase to visitors just how versatile our machinery is for use in areas such as sports stadiums, large estates and public parks.”

Also exhibiting at the two-day event is the 34HP STW 34 tractor, designed specifically to take on an extensive list of jobs ranging from mowing to loading work. Users will have the benefit of standard spec power steering and a Bi-Speed Turn feature to combat the common problem of tyre drag and turf damage when wheel speeds are increased.

Kubota will also be showing its 60HP M6060 with 18x18 multi-

48 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

stage transmission and hydraulic shuttle; plus the economical 26HP B2650 compact tractor, which features HST or manual transmission options for optimal control and comfort.

Kubota’s powerful KX019-4 mini-excavator will make an appearance at the two-day event, prompted by growing demand for compact construction equipment across the groundcare industry.

Kubota is sponsoring this year’s Best Artificial Pitch of the Year award at the IOG Industry Awards, taking place on the night of the 4th November following the first day of Saltex.

Visitors will also be given the opportunity to learn more about Kubota Finance, which is a new solution for customers wanting to take advantage of the most flexible financial funding packages on the market. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to enter a

prize draw to win a Special Edition RTV-X900 as part of Kubota’s new campaign, ‘Work Safe With Kubota,’ which aims to raise £250,000 for 20 Air Ambulance charities across the UK. “Kubota has been a market leader in groundcare products and Saltex is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase to visitors just how versatile our machinery is for use in areas such as sports stadiums, large estates and public parks.”

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

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| SALTEX

Mark Saggers

Learning Live at SALTEX 2015 This year's SALTEX LEARNING LIVE education programme will offer grounds and open space practitioners across all disciplines, volunteer as well as professional, a daily feast of FREE knowledge-gathering sessions in a programme that has never been bigger or better! eaturing industryleading experts and some of the top names in European groundsmanship including participants from some of our flagship stadia and sporting venues - this year's SALTEX presentations will educate, enthral and entertain SALTEX visitors like never before.

There are three dedicated seminar theatres running at the show, plus the Young Groundsmen’s Conference organised by the

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IOG’s Young Board of Directors (and sponsored by Rigby Taylor and Top Green). All sessions are FREE to attend and do not require pre-booking - just make sure you arrive promptly to make sure you get a seat.

The IOG Seminars - Gaining Ground - Stand A180 Parks Play and People - Stand A010 Technically Turf & New Product Pitches - Stand K180 The Young Groundsmen’s Conference - Concourse Gallery Suites 17 & 18

DMMP at SALTEX DMMP Limited has made a point of doing something different at Exhibitions: we had great success at the last two shows by actually letting customers use the Maruyama Outdoor Power Equipment and EarthWay spreaders, that and the big red London Bus! How else can we prove the quality?

ell, aside from our unmatched 5 year Commercial Warranty from Maruyama and the World’s most accurate and versatile spreader from EarthWay, the NEC provides a great opportunity to try

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Tyre-Line Ltd - proud to announce new aftermarket division Since 1984 Tyre-Line have been one of the UK’s leading, family run, Independent Tyre and Wheel specialists supplying the Original Equipment market.

They have now responded to aftersales demand from customers by opening a dedicated office in Somerset to support the aftermarket, trade only sales. ased in a spacious 50,000 sq. ft. premises in Daventry, Northants, TyreLine are proud to partner with some of the leading names in specialist usage tyres and wheels. They are the Sole, UK Official Distributor of Carlisle & ITP Tyres and Wheels and are distributors and stockists for many other quality brands

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including Wanda, Compass, Maxxis, CST, Bridgestone and Vredestein tyres, with wheels available from Alcoa, Mefro and Vlukon to name but a few.

Tyre-Line Aftermarket will be exhibiting at this year’s SALTEX show at the NEC, Birmingham on 4-5 November. Come and visit us on Stand D082 or Contact Jacqui & Richard on 01458 250350.

something different - Come and visit DMMP and Maruyama at stand F042, enter into our prize draw for a range of superb prizes and feel the quality for yourself!

For more information about any of our brands, please contact DMMP Limited on 01455 825400 or visit www.dmmp.co.uk

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Forestry

Woods Foreman retires after 43 years of service One of Clinton Devon Estates longest serving employees, Graham Heaman, retires after 43 years of service at the end of September. orking as Woods Foreman, Graham has managed the forests on the Heanton Estate in North Devon since 1968 when he was just 16 years old. Apart from a brief three-year break, Graham’s service has been continuous and saw him join the fight against a devastating tree disease, which threatened to wipe out swathes of woodland across the south west in 2009.

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Graham played an important role monitoring the larch forest to prevent the spread of Phytophthera ramorum. Graham said: “It is very sad having to fell young trees, and it meant a lot of extra work for us at the time. We had to look after the land a lot more carefully and do a lot of replanting, but we were lucky we weren’t affected as badly as many other landowners.”

Graham applied for the job at Clinton Devon Estates to follow in

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his father’s footsteps. His father, Herbert Heaman, had also worked for the Estate as Head Cattleman for a number of years.

Graham will turn 62 in October and has had a long and happy work life with many fond memories of his time at Clinton Devon Estates.

His commitment to the land and hard work has been recognised on a number of occasions. In 2012 he received a Long Service Award from the Devon County Show, celebrating his then 39 year dedicated career in the rural agriculture sector.

Graham said: “I’ve really enjoyed my job on the Estates, John Wilding has been my boss for the last 18 years and he’s the best boss I ever had, I couldn’t wish to have worked with or for better people. Woodland management has changed significantly whilst I’ve been here. We used to do a lot of it by hand, but now we use a range of machinery. We can achieve more work in a day than we could have done in a couple of weeks back then. The machinery has certainly made the job slightly easier, but I’m looking forward to my retirement now. I’ve only got a small cottage in Merton with a little

garden, but I’ve got a nice garden shed where I plan to keep myself busy and make some new bird boxes.”

Head of Forestry and Environmental Economy, John Wilding MBE said: “Graham has been a hard-working, committed and well respected member of our team. He will be missed, both in terms of his knowledge and expertise and his great work ethic, not many people know the land as well as Graham. We all wish him a very happy retirement.”

Clinton Devon Estates owns and manages 25,000 acres of land across Devon. As Woods Foreman, Graham implements woodland management to achieve a rich diversity of trees and age structure. The majority of woodland is made up of Oak, Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine, Norway Spruce and Sitka Spruce. The woodlands are vital in sustaining the local economy and communities, and the Estate has received international acclaim from the Forest Stewardship Council for its work.

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| Health & Safety

Seddons (Plant and Engineers) Ltd Bolton, North West England T: 01204 854600 www.seddonplant.co.uk

Nailsworth Garden Machinery Stroud, Gloucestershire T: 01453 834787 www.nailsworth-gardenmachinery.co.uk

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

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

Spaldings Limited Lincoln, Lincolnshire T: 01243 554065 www.spaldings.co.uk

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

Ermin Plant (Hire & Services) Ltd Gloucester, Gloucestershire T: 01452 526616 www.erminplant.co.uk

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

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October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Machinery

The Tractor Shop & Zetor UK to launch the all new Zetor Crystal at Midlands Machinery Show The all new Zetor Crystal 160 will be showcased by The Tractor Shop for the first time in the United Kingdom at the Midlands Machinery Show on November 25 and 26. he high horse power tractor will be one of the show’s big attractions at the Newark Showground with many within the agricultural industry excited to see the new range by Zetor.

Sales area manager Peter Warner of Zetor UK said: “We are very excited to bring Zetor’s new Crystal tractor to the Midlands Machinery Show, as it marks a return of a well-loved name from the Czech Republic-based manufacturer.

The Tractor Shop owner Sam Plowright said: “We were delighted to be at the first Midlands Machinery Show in 2014 and we are very excited to be back again this time round.

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“To be able to bring the new Zetor Crystal 160 to the show is very exciting, especially as it will be the first UK show to showcase it and we are hoping farmers that visit the show will be very interested in the tractor.”

George Taylor, show manager, said: “We are only a couple of months away now until the big event and we can’t wait to welcome all our exhibitors and visitors.

“The Midlands Machinery Show is now getting close to booking our 200th trading space. We also have very limited indoor availability for traders, so it’s set to be bigger and better that last year.

“We are delighted to welcome The Tractor Shop and Zetor and we are sure the launch of the new tractor will be hugely popular with

52 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

visitors and farmers within the industry.”

Now in its second year the Show is increasingly a key event on the business calendar for farmers, businesses and others in the agricultural industry.

Visitors to the Midlands Machinery Show 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. Trade space will remain available until the close of booking for the catalogue on 30 October 2015.

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| Machinery

FarmGEM delighted to be supporting Midlands Machinery Show again Southwell based FarmGEM is backing the second annual Midlands Machinery Show after hailing last year’s inaugural event as a ‘huge success’. he company, which supplies an engineered range of crop sprayers, was the first to put its name down back in 2014 and is expecting this year’s Show on 25 and 26 November to be even bigger and better.

FarmGEM will be housed in the George Stephenson Hall and will have the largest space to showcase a number of their new models of mounted and de-mounted sprayers.

The Diamond 3000 Trailed Sprayer, the FSE 1600 Mounted Sprayer, a FT1400 front mounted tank and also small amenity machines will be present for visitors and customers to view.

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“We like the show as it is a good place to network, meet people, potential customers and find sale leads and promote the FarmGem brand.”

Sales and marketing director, Cliff Buck, said: “It is great to be back at the show, it is obviously a very new event, but it is successful and already has a great reputation.

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“We were the first company to put our names down on the list last year and we felt it was important that we showed our support again in 2015.

“Being based in Southwell we wanted to show our commitment as it is an emerging show on our doorstep. It is a great event for us and it is important for our company to be involved.

“We like the show as it is a good place to network, meet people, potential customers and find sale leads and promote the FarmGem brand.

“As everyone knows the market is tough at present and we are all under pressure. That’s just the nature of the agricultural business.”

FarmGEM specialise in crop sprayer machines that are manufactured with a high range of quality, strength and ease of use.

The company, which was founded in 2009, dedicates itself to supplying an engineered range of sprayers through specialist distributers providing excellent products and service support.

It has entered its seventh year of growth and has machines manufactured across Europe.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Machinery

Mixer wagon with integrated bedding system offers dualpurpose versatility for Scottish livestock farmers KUHN Farm Machinery will be displaying a new range of dual-purpose TMR mixer and bedding wagons at this year’s AgriScot show which takes place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh on Wednesday 18 November 2015.

Splitting image There are two ways to view log splitting. You can take a splitting wedge and a sledgehammer and use the exercise to warm you up on a chilly day.

You might, however, run the risk of a 2lb metal object flying at speed through the air and hitting you on the shin or worse, injuring an innocent bystander. t best log splitting is a time-consuming, boring task.

Consider another image, one of breezing through the work with a powerful log splitter.

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Splitting logs will never be the same again!

A tough machine that offers up to 10 ton of hydraulic splitting force. We’re talking about the Wessex CountryLine LS-100, a strong, simple solution and a

he KUHN PROFILE PLUS range of twinauger TMR mixer wagons consists of four different models, all of which feature an integrated bedding system for added machine versatility.

All four models feature a narrow body design to make them compatible with old and new farm buildings and feature a number of the same benefits as seen on the standard PROFILE 70 series of vertical auger mixer wagons.

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A tilting feed conveyor and swivelling straw-blowing chutes are available as optional extras

These include a low loading height, compact external dimensions (the 15m3 model is just 2.42m wide and 2.83m high), right or left feed discharge door and a three-point electronic weighing system as standard. The PROFILE PLUS range also features a front mounted strawblowing turbine driven by KUHN’s patented POLYDRIVE system enabling it to throw 600kg of bedding material to a distance of 18 metres in just 4.5 minutes.

quick, easy fit to any tractor with a category1 three-point linkage.

This will power through logs up to 450mm/18” in height and with a floor level splitting bed it’s easy to position them into place.

The two-handed operation makes for safer use and the speed of dealing with large volumes makes a measurable impression whether you’re using the Wessex County LS-100 commercially or for farm and smallholding work.

Contact Wessex International on 01264 345870 or visit www.wessexintl.com

Available in capacities of 15, 16, 18 and 20m3, PROFILE PLUS wagons use two independent vertical augers to accurately and quickly mix a range of feedstuffs, with adjustable counter-knives giving the ability to cut fibrous material to a pre-determined length. The small diameter augers reduce the range’s power requirement, with the 15m3 PROFILE PLUS 1570 compatible with 80hp tractors.

The straw output door uses KUHN’s asymmetric VENTIDRIVE design to optimise output flow and to ensure an even application of bedding materials.

A tilting feed conveyor and swivelling straw-blowing chutes are available as optional extras.

“The PROFILE PLUS range shares many of the features found on our established range of EUROMIX wagons,” explains Duncan McLeish, KUHN’s UK Sales Manager. “Key features such as the adjustable counterknives, electronic weighing system and customisable feed-out options enable cows to be fed consistently and accurately, while the integrated straw-blower adds to the range’s overall versatility and value for money, making the PROFILE PLUS perfect for the majority of modern dairy and beef farming enterprises.”

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| Machinery

Vaderstad adds smaller options to Opus Cultivator range For autumn 2015 Vaderstad is launching two smaller Opus cultivator models in the range which includes the 600 and 700 versions. Built on the same strong frame as the larger models the new 400 and 500 versions are easy to manoeuvre trailed cultivators. ith 27cm tine spacing and 80cm clearance, Opus is designed to handle large quantities of straw and harvesting residue. A wide assortment of points and shins, including points coated with hardened metal are available. As standard on the Opus is the MixIn shin which produces an excellent tilth due to the soil being remixed several times as the cultivator makes its way across the field. The tines have a variable release force of up to

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700kg and the cultivator can work down to a depth of 40cm.

Hydraulically adjustable and rotating levelling units follow the tines. A parallelogram ensures that the levelling units work at the same angle across the entire machine width, regardless of working depth.

The consolidation packers are available in two different versions and are replaceable.

SoilRunner is a U-profile packer with an alternated construction in which soil acts on soil. SoilRunner can be tilted, making it

possible to attain various degrees of consolidation packing after the machine.

An alternative is SteelRunner, a cultivating steel roller with pivoting scrapers which is recommended for medium clay soils where a cultivating roller may be needed.

The consolidation unit can bear the entire weight of the machine or be raised so that it moves above the ground depending on the desired results. It is also easy to detach.

Agricultural Society chooses Weidemann Telehandler for multiple roles The Newbury & District Agricultural Society has recently taken delivery of a Weidemann T5522 compact telehandler to undertake a multitude of tasks on its 155 acre showground site.

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he Society had previously made use of a second hand machine that had become increasingly unreliable, hence slowing progress when settingup for the annual two day

show.

When the Society's new chief executive, Daren Bowyer, joined the organisation, one of his first actions was to resolve the materials handling problem which resulted in the purchase of the Weidemann telehandler from local dealer PJS Agricultural Services of Hungerford.

Commenting on the decision, Mr. Bowyer said: "With the budget available we found we could not only afford a brand new compact Weidemann machine but also some very useful attachments."

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When the machine arrived on site, some of the staff were somewhat sceptical that it would be able to carry out the required tasks, but they were very soon won over by the telehandler's 2 tonne lift capacity and outstanding versatility.

The machine is now proving indispensible for many tasks from unloading and transporting cattle penning and sheep hurdles to exactly where needed inside the various tents to carrying out work at height using a man-basket attachment.

In addition to many other general materials handling tasks, the T5522 is also used with a

post borer tool to speed-up the frequent erecting and moving of fences, "a real godsend" according to Mr. Bowyer.

Weidemann's T5522 model is powered by a Perkins 4-cylinder diesel engine developing 36.3 kW (49 hp) @ 2800 rpm. The machine, which has an overall width of just 1808 mm, features all-wheel steering and a low centre of gravity for excellent stability and manoeuvrability. Its sturdy telescopic arm is able to lift 2200 kg to a maximum height of 5.5 m at the implement pivot point.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Machinery

New addition to the AXION 800 Series CLAAS has added an even more powerful model to its successful AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870, which is equipped as standard with the continuously variable CMATIC transmission. he AXION 870 has up to 295 hp at its disposal thanks to its CPM (CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT) system and is equipped with the tried and tested 6-cylinder FPT engine, which has a 6.7 litre displacement and fulfils the Stage IV (Tier 4) emissions standard.

With this new flagship model, CLAAS continues its ongoing programme to develop the AXION 800 model series, which now

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incorporates seven models ranging from 205 to 295 hp.

The FPT engine in the AXION 870 uses the CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT (CPM) system. At speeds above 14 km/h and whenever power take-off work is being performed, the system automatically provides additional torque and an extra 15hp of power through the electronic engine control system. Overall, the new AXION 870 is 31 hp more powerful compared to the AXION 850 CMATIC, despite having the same

56 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

operational weight. This makes the AXION 870 suitable for an even larger range of applications in fastmoving field work, for power takeoff work and for road travel.

Like the entire AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870 will also be equipped with a new front axle as standard. It is up to 380 kilograms lighter than the previous axle and allows an increase in the permissible gross vehicle weight of up to one tonne.

Due to its low unladen weight combined with high power, the AXION 870 is ideally suited to light cultivation and heavy-duty power take-off operations such as baling, slurry spreading or grass harvesting. This makes the AXION 870 a very attractive alternative to the next model up in the AXION 900 model series, especially for use between multiple farms and for large farm operations.

The AXION 870 is equipped with the continuously variable CMATIC transmission and the CEBIS operating concept (CLAAS electronic on-board information system) with up to seven electronic spool valves and a

CEBIS terminal integrated into the armrest. Thanks to the CSM (CLAAS Sequence Management) system, the AXION is capable of intelligent headland and implement management.

Due to its low unladen weight combined with high power, the AXION 870 is ideally suited to light cultivation and heavy-duty power take-off operations such as baling, slurry spreading or grass harvesting All of the important functions of both the tractor and the equipment can be conveniently controlled using function keys in the armrest or with the CMOTION multifunction lever. In addition, the AXION 870 can optionally be equipped exfactory with the GPS PILOT steering system from CLAAS, with S10 or S7 terminal.

The CLAAS AXION 870 will be available from 2016 on.

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Contact your local dealer today:

C R Willcocks Old Newton Rd Heathfield Devon TQ12 6RW 01626 831851 www.crwillcocks.co.uk

Farmstar Ltd Grove Farm, Church Lane, Marr Doncaster DN5 7AU 01302 786786 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Ltd Becklands Park Ind. Estate York Road, Market Weighton York YO43 3GA 01430 875900 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Ltd Bridge Street Brigg North Lincs DN20 8NF 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

Farmstar Ltd Hawton Lane New Balderton Newark NG24 3BU 01636 671628 www.farmstar.co.uk

| Tyres

58 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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| Machinery

New Holland IntelliSteer™ PLM helps remove over two tonnes of metal after Glastonbury Festival IntelliSteer™ PLM guidance system used by Glastonbury Festival site farm to remove metal from fields with a giant magnet. he IntelliSteer™ smart guidance system from New Holland is helping to ensure that 700 cows can return to grass as quickly as possible, after 135,000 revellers at the Glastonbury Festival have left the host farm’s fields.

Worthy Farm, the location of the world renowned Glastonbury Festival, is home to 400 dairy cows and 300 followers. When the Festival ends the farm’s 700 acres are covered with waste including over two tonnes of metal, which needs to be recovered. Around 600 acres of grass is cut for forage, so reducing metal contamination before silagecutting is vital.

This is achieved with a powerful magnet, front-mounted on a New Holland T7.235, with the search for metal recently being enhanced by the use of New Holland IntelliSteer™ PLM guidance system. Effectively clearing the fields of metal rubbish is vital for the dairy herd who will often graze on the site within three or so weeks after the festival has ended.

Removing metal with help from the magnet has reduced the incidence of cows ingesting metal by around 90 per cent.

Michael Eavis CBE, owner of Worthy Farm and founder of the Glastonbury Festival, still maintains an active interest in running the farm and describes the magneting operation as “one of the most important things that has been implemented during the past 15 years”. He says: “The magneting operation is very important for the day-to-day running of the farm. Anything left from the festival could potentially get into the cows’ feed so we do all we can to prevent this.”

Worthy Farm purchased the New Holland T7.235 tractor with IntelliSteer™ in August 2014 specifically to help with metal collection, and to date it has already clocked up 1340 hours.

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The farm uses RTX Range Point for its GPS correction, supplied by Trimble Correction Services, which gives 15cm pass to pass accuracy.

Guided by the IntelliSteer™ system, the tractor and magnet pick up any ferrous materials that it passes over. The most common items are tent pegs, gas canisters and one and two pence pieces. All the collected metals go to the local scrapyard for recycling.

The magnet was developed and manufactured on the farm around 15 years ago and consists of a 4m wide frame on wheels which holds a stainless steel plate and large solid magnets. The magnets can be lifted independently off the steel plates, to discharge any metal collected into a purpose-built tray.

It is attached to the front linkage of the T7.235, allowing it to be raised for transport and lowered for collecting. In collecting mode it works at 50 to 75mm off the the ground with a forward speed of 2.5kph.

The IntelliSteer™ system has proven to be a real time and money saver on the farm as reducing overlap has increased work rate by approximately 25 per cent. The system accurately maps fields and provides field sizes and distances which is useful information for other field activities, such as planning where to run water pipes. It will also take into account changes in altitude from sea level to within 20-30cm accuracy.

Steve Kearle, Farm Manager for Worthy Farm says: “The IntelliSteer™ system means we can be sure that the magnet has covered every inch of the fields.

It’s the first time that we’ve had an auto-guidance system on one of our tractors and already it’s making a big difference. The system gives us the assurance that not only have we covered the field, but we haven’t wasted time going over the same area.”

Over the course of the year, the magnet and tractor will sweep the 700 acre site four times. The site is

grass harrowed regularly to help bring items to the surface so that the magnet can collect more effectively. An aerator mounted on the back of the tractor is used in the same pass as the magnet operation, and helps the ground recover after being trampled by around 135,000 people during the five days of the Glastonbury Festival.

Brad Haldene has worked at Worthy Farm for five years and is the primary tractor operator, doing 90 per cent of the magnet work.

He says: “IntelliSteer™ has helped me be sure that we haven’t overlapped and that we haven’t missed any metal on the ground.

The advanced mapping system makes it far more efficient and means there is no opportunity for error.”

Worthy Farm has three T7.235 Auto Command tractors (one fitted with IntelliSteer™ while the other two are PLM ready), one T6.160 Auto Command tractor and one Boomer 3040 as part of its tractor fleet. The tractor fleet is mainly used for the farm but has to be flexible enough to perform festival duties as well. Farm manager Steve believes the T7.235 is perfectly suited to the important magnet task as well as other tasks on the farm.

Steve says: “The T7.235 is a good size. We chose it to suit the tasks we have at the moment and those we expect to have in the

future. Other than the magnet job, the T7s are used for transport, feeding, hauling and tanking – they can take on pretty much all of the tasks on the farm. The front linkage which we had fitted gives us great flexibility, so that has been really useful.”

T H White based in Frome has been working with Worthy Farm for the past 40 years and sold the latest fleet of T7s as part of a trade-in deal. During the Glastonbury Festival, the farm hires eight tractors – mainly New Holland T4s and T5s – from T H White for 8 to 12 weeks, mainly for towing flat bed trailers that move equipment around the site.

Ben Wilcox, T H White salesman, says: “We have a longstanding relationship with Worthy Farm where we provide them with a variety of machinery, not just for the Glastonbury Festival, but also for day-to-day farm operations. We were one of the first New Holland dealerships to acquire PLM Certified Level 3 status and we have a dedicated precision farming specialist providing customer support and training.”

In the future, the Worthy Farm team is looking to develop a new tool which will help them remove non-ferrous metals from the site, including alloys and aluminium that are currently collected manually by volunteer litter pickers after the festival.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Fuels

Contaminated tank

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

60 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk RES Tractors Melton Mowbray Leicestershire LE14 4DB 01949 861 615 www.restractors.co.uk

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| Feature

Glamping makes its mark at Stoneleigh Glamping guru Kate Morel was right on the money, when she predicted the Glamping Show, an event totally dedicated to this fledgling industry, is right on cue; as glamping made its mark at Stoneleigh Park late last month.

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“This is one of the best shows we have ever attended because the focus is on glamping so it is completely relevant for us” said Aiden Reeve of Tiny Wood Outdoors Visitor to the Show, Jane Corner, had this to say: “Hi, I have just come back from the Glamping Show (Thursday), and I want to say Thank You. I feel inspired (by Sarah Riley and Kevin Holland), informed (by Matthew Van Den Elst, Andy Woodward and Kevin Holland) and excited (by Cool Camping) to get our site in Chipping Campden up and going next year. I hope you run the show again in the future. Thanks again, it was great timing (and location) for me.”

The glamping seminars were held in bespoke seminar pods and all were exceptionally well attended with the audience spilling out the door on some occasions.

Lesson learnt; big screen TV hook up for next year to make sure everyone who wants to attend gets

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the chance to listen in!

There’s always a risk in attending an exhibition without a track record but the work put in by Swan Events and Holiday Parks Management to publicise the event paid off and the exhibitors had nothing to worry about as they picked up leads of exceptional quality throughout the Show.

Aquashell’s Managing Director, Harry Singh, said: “We launched a complete range at The Glamping Show. We have had such good enquiries from operators who have lakes or riverfronts that they want to make use of. We have even had a customer come to see us from Spain. It has been great to meet the CLA here – 60% of their members have lakes on their land, so it is a huge opportunity.”

Silver Lining Networks’ Owner, Marc Jones, said: “Compared to other shows I have exhibited at, this one stands out because of the relevance of the enquiries. It is great to talk to decision makers, that makes the difference.”

Tiny Wood Outdoors’ Managing Director, Aidan Reeve, said: “This is one of the best shows we have ever attended because the focus is on glamping so it is completely relevant for us. We have talked to a lot of people who are thinking of setting up a glamping business, which is great because it will start properly for them at this show.

One day at this show has been more successful for us than an entire three days at Farming Innovation.”

Roll on next year when the Glamping Show will be capitalising on its success to make sure it’s bigger and better in the autumn of 2016. Visit www.theglampingshow.com for more details.

Images © Copyright Norman Leftly 2015

isitors arrived from all corners of the UK including established glamp site owners, wanting to learn about the latest trends and innovative ways on how to continually improve their business as well as visitors who are planning to open a glamp site. All were welcome and with nothing to distract from the main business at hand, everyone, visitors and exhibitors alike, benefited from the focussed nature of the Show; GLAMPING!

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Tyres

Impressive ATG Innovations @ Agritechnica 2015 New VF tyre for sprayers to be introduced, along with launch of new IF tyres for combine harvesters, tractors and large self-propelled liquid manure spreaders & tankers. lliance Tire Group (ATG), a leading Off-Highway Tire (OHT) manufacturer, will launch a broad range of new products in the flotation & agri-transport segment, further extending the top position of Alliance brand. The innovations to be introduced at Agritechnica 2015 will include Alliance’s all steel high speed flotation radial portfolio for agricultural trailers for example.

Commenting on the new products, Yogesh Mahansaria, CEO of ATG points out: “With its leadership position in the flotation radial tyre category, Alliance is predestined to reliably meeting the changing trends and requirements of the agri-transport sector. With three key sizes, we will markedly contribute to delivering the ever increasing performance that is expected from agricultural machines.”

Specialists for “big jobs”!

The ability to carry large payloads quickly and conserving soil are the two main prerequisites for agricultural tyres. As pioneer and leader in agri-transport flotation radial tyres, ATG’s Alliance brand has therefore a

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62 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

large portfolio of tyres for agricultural transport and other uses.

One of the innovative products, the 380 VF Flotation Radial pattern in size 650/55R26.5, can either carry up to 40% more load compared to its standard flotation variant with the same air pressure or the same load with 30% lower inflation pressure – which in turn allows for markedly better soil protection. The 380VF offers 25% larger footprint when compared to its conventional radial variant, thus causing significantly lower soil compaction. This tyre is a true specialist for agricultural transport vehicles, offering exceptional flotation, low ground pressure, and minimum soil disturbance.

With the performance of harvesting equipment increasing year after year, getting lots of harvested crops quickly transported from field to barn, cooperative or customer becomes ever more important. As yet another Agritechnica highlight, the popular design Alliance 390 will now be available in the size 24R20.5 MPT. The 390 MPT is a heavy duty all steel radial flotation tyre for high speed trailers.

The block type tread design in combination

with wide tread and large inner volume provide exceptional flotation capabilities and less soil compaction. These tyres are ideal for all kinds of Off Highway agricultural transport. In addition, evenly spaced and well designed tread design has outstanding self-cleaning properties.

In addition to these examples, ATG will launch a firework of innovations at this year’s Agritechnica. “We are investing tremendous research and development resources in our ability to introduce the very best and latest products in Off Highway Tyre technology. The launch of large volume IF and VF tyres in the recent past is just one example that gives testimony of our efforts. We realise that agricultural machines such sprayers, tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled mowers and tankers are evolving rapidly for increased overall productivity. As this segment will see further significant growth in coming years, ATG is geared to provide efficient high-quality solutions with the right mix of tyres”, says Peter Baur, President – Alliance Tire Europe B.V.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Tyres

Carlisle launches new sizes Farm Specialist® Flotation Tyre More tyre. More productivity. Less downtime. Carlisle introduces 3 new sizes of the Farm Specialist® Flotation Tyre. he extra wide profile design and large load capacity makes the Farm Specialist® Flotation Tyre perfectly suited for agricultural applications like: silage trailers, manure spreaders, tipping trailers, hay rake machines, hay bailers and harvesting machines.

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The Carlstar Group offers a comprehensive line of performance products for original equipment and aftermarket customers The Farm Specialist® Flotation Tyre is specifically designed for heavy duty work and has a large load capacity at low tyre pressure.

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The carcass construction is refined in every detail and is built to perform under all conditions. The outstanding self-cleaning purpose is one of the strong features of these tyres.

About The Carlstar Group The Carlstar Group LLC (formerly CTP Transportation Products) is a leading producer of specialty tyres and wheels for agriculture, construction, industrial, outdoor power equipment, powersports, towables and trailers.

The Carlstar Group offers a comprehensive line of performance products for original equipment and aftermarket customers with a strong family of brands including Carlisle® tyres and wheels, ITP® tyres and wheels, Marathon tyres, as well as Cragar®, Black Rock® and Unique® automotive wheels.

Products are made in ISO-registered manufacturing facilities, supported by innovative product development and a team focused on customer satisfaction.

The Carlstar Group employs over 4,300 associates in 22 facilities located in five countries. Since 1917, a culture of converting great ideas into advanced products has created a legacy of excellence in product innovation, quality and customer service.

Visit www.carlstargroup.eu or email ctp_eu@carlstargroup.com

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 63

| ATV

From go-anywhere leisure use to UK farms Until the late 1980s All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) were designed mainly for the leisure markets, their large balloon tyres allowing them to be operated on all sorts of terrain, and their motorcycle-derived engines providing plenty of power for exhilarating high speed riding. But, their ability to travel where virtually no other vehicle could, and to operate in all sorts of weather was recognised as a potential benefit, at first by just a few UK farmers, and their popularity quickly spread. sing machines designed primarily for the leisure market meant some modification was often needed, and many three-wheel and early four-wheeled machines sported home-built or after-market load racks, allowing loads to be carried as well as the rider.

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ATVs are one of the most indispensable tools on the farm Honda introduced its utility range of ATVs in the early 1980s, including three-wheelers with a full-width load rack at the rear and a small rack above the single front wheel, as well as four-wheelers, which offered better stability, and with full racks back and front.

Designed for work use, they all featured handy electrical sockets from which 12-volt accessories could be powered.

Farm transport was an obvious application for the versatile

machines, and ATVs quickly became popular with livestock farms, able to negotiate steep slopes, cross soft muddy terrain and transport feed out to the fields, in conditions where tractors or 4x4 road vehicles couldn’t travel and saving long distances on foot. It wasn’t just on livestock farms that they became popular. On arable farms the ATVs’ ability to travel across fields of growing crops with less ground pressure than a farmer’s boot meant they were ideal for field ‘walking’, and during wet autumns in the late 1980s, they proved ideal for applying slug pellets with a mounted spreader at the rear.

Manufacturing of the three wheelers ceased in the late 1980s, but sales of four wheeled ATVs continued to increase although, in the UK, almost all were purchased for farm and estate work rather than leisure. Honda had identified early on that the leisure and work markets required different characteristics, and its work or utility range included the TRX 250

64 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

2wd, with a 250cc engine and the TRX350 4wd with a 350cc power unit, both of which had engines designed to stay cool even when working hard at low speeds and avoiding overheating problems which could affect motorcyclebased models.

During the early years of ATV

use, there was a tendency for farmers and landowners to purchase their first machines with one particular application in mind, but their versatility meant that many more tasks were quickly found for them making ATVs one of the most indispensable tools on the farm.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Kawasaki has launched two new Mules to the pack with the introduction of the four-seater MULE PRO-DXT and two-seater PRO-DX.

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oth diesel, the models have been designed primarily for work applications where their high-torque diesel engines will deliver excellent performance and allow on-site fuel

compatibility.

The Trans Cab system of the PRO-DXT enables the flexibility to maximise either cargo space or people-moving potential. With a greater focus on cargo carrying performance, the PRO-DX features a long, flat cargo bed – the largest in the MULE fleet, making it the workhorse of choice for customers who need to haul material.

Both models, available in Timberline Green,

For more information

Contact your nearest dealer

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feature a powerful 993 cm3 four-stroke diesel engine and produce 18kW (24PS) of power, 52 Nm of torque and have a towing capacity of 907kg. Fuel capacity is 30 litres and bright headlights are complemented by auxiliary LED lamps.

Serious performance for work Enabling fuel compatibility amongst workplace machines, the MULE PRO-DXT and PRO-DX are well suited for use in working environments where diesel is the primary fuel, such as in agriculture, local authority use, gatekeeping, forestry, inside factories, or on military bases and construction sites.

Combined with their rugged chassis, these hardy machines also represent practical

Ellis Dawe & Son Ltd Birtsmorton Malvern Worcestershire WR13 6AS 01684 833235 www.ellisdawekawasaki.co.uk

choices for more traditional utility vehicle users who simply wish to opt for the lower operating costs, durability and reliability that a dieselpowered vehicle offers. Whether for industrial or general usage, diesel MULEs meet the needs of a broad range of utility vehicle customers.

Powerful 993 cm3 Diesel Engine The high-torque three-cylinder diesel engine of the MULE PRO-DXT and PRO-DX offers excellent performance for transporting loads, as well as easy low-speed control. Excellent starting performance and simple, rugged construction are other strong points of this diesel power plant. Vehicle top speed is up to 30 mph.

Jim Price Machinery Ltd Farmore Mills, Shrewsbury Rd. Craven Arms Shropshire SY7 9QG 01588 673746 www.jimpricemachinery.com

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

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 65

| ATV

Suzuki joins forces with Mole Valley to offer customers fantastic discount Suzuki GB is pleased to announce its partnership with Mole Valley Farmers, which means members of the farm supplies outlet can benefit from 10% off RRP on all Suzuki utility ATVs. esigned to take riders wherever the work takes them, whatever the weather and terrain, Suzuki ATVs come packed full of features and technology that offer the ultimate reliability, easy manoeuvring and all-day comfort.

Plus, Suzuki is the only ATV manufacturer to feature the CESAR ATV Security System – the number one theft deterrent by Datatag – for free on all of its new utility ATVs. In addition to the 10% off RRP offer – Mole Valley Farmers is running a prize draw to win a Suzuki KingQuad 400, which delivers smooth power and torque for farm, forestry, estate and equestrian work. The KingQuad 400 Manual also tackles steep, wet and uneven ground with ease as it boasts a high/low range gear box,

twin shock suspension and dual hydraulic disc breaks. Enter here.

As well as treating riders to the most confident and comfortable of rides, each Suzuki ATV boasts a number of additional benefits, including friendly, expert advice, servicing and aftersales support from Suzuki’s extensive dealer network, free courtesy ATVs when customers’ ATVs are in for service or repair, plus, free EASI training to keep customers and their ATVs safe and productive.

To claim the 10% member discount, customers should quote their Mole Valley Farmers membership number when speaking to an authorised Suzuki ATV dealer who, upon quick verification from Mole Valley, will apply the fantastic discount against the final purchase.

To be the first to find out about future offers, find /SuzukiATVsUK on Facebook and Twitter.

on a farmer’s entire property, Polaris also fit the vehicle with indicators, mirrors and a horn as standard features to save customers the expense of retrofitting these items when required.

From 1st October 2015 Polaris is offering a limited period 0% finance offer on new Polaris utility ATVs and UTVs (subject to status & terms and conditions). Contact Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

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Camping on the farm with Polaris Generations of visitors have appreciated the unique aspects of the Georgian town of Aberaeron in Ceredigion.

It is the ideal base for exploring the Welsh coast around Cardigan Bay and, five minutes’ walk from the town, Drefnewydd Farm has been attracting campers to ‘Camping on the Farm’ since 1974. om Williams and his wife Michelle make a warm welcome for campers with tents, caravans and motor homes on this working sheep farm with its hills and fields sloping down to the beach. Tom, whose main job is surveying, is firmly a Polaris ATV owner, having had several Sportsman including the 550 and 850 models. The latest addition is the Polaris Sportsman UTE which has been acting as a dual workhorse between the farm and campsite for about a year. Polaris dealer Daltons ATVs suggested the UTE because it is ideally suited to the terrain and offers Tom everything he needs in an ATV. “In the winter, especially when it’s wet, I really appreciate the Polaris 4 wheel Descent Control coming down the hills, the power steering, and the dump box on the back is

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perfect for carrying feed and hay to the sheep. With a trailer on the back as well, engine braking is a must,” he says. During the summer months the UTE doubles as a working vehicle on the campsite, moving bins around between pitches. What Tom also particularly likes is what he describes as the Polaris being a ‘proper quad’ in terms of its size and capabilities, with its 556kg towing capacity and generous seating position.

“I’m very happy with the Polaris and pleased Daltons suggested it.

Other quads feel small by comparison. To me the UTE feels like a good, safe ride for the work we do.” He adds. Polaris developed the Sportsman UTE from the ground up after their engineers spent time ‘in the field’ in typically challenging landscapes, gathering feedback from ATV end users and dealers.

To ensure the vehicle can be used

66 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Heneage Motor Co Lincolnshire Tel. 01472 729980

Olds Motor Group Somerset Tel: 01935 429700

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782

Winchester Motor Co. Hampshire Tel: 01962 866331

www.heneagegrimsby.co.uk

www.oldsgreatwall.co.uk

www.mtcars.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

Haven Motor Holdings Ltd Sussex Tel: 01403 891700

Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.havenmotors.co.uk

www.bathhonda.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 67

| Motors

Land Rover crowned Towcar Champion 2016 Land Rover’s luxury SUV takes a much-deserved, first overall win in the industry’s most prestigious towcar competition, The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year. he competition’s 43 entrants, which were split into seven price classes and two weight categories, ranged from the MG6 S DTI-TECH, the ‘Under £17,500’ class winner at just £14,347, to the Land Rover Range Rover SDV8 Autobiography coming in at a whopping £97,700.

Out of a diverse entry list, the Land Rover Discovery HSE LUX sat at the top as ‘Over £50,000’ class winner, All-Wheel Drive Over 1,800kg category victor and The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2016.

Each towcar endured a gruelling series of trials – being judged not only on their towing performance over the testing circuit at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, but also for their ‘caravanability’. This measures how well the car holds up to a caravanner’s needs – how much typical holiday gear and caravan essentials it can accommodate, how easily it can be hooked up to a caravan and the quality of

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towing information available in its handbook. Also added to the marking equation was the towcar’s value for money.

Seven driving judges evaluated each car for its dynamic abilities and ergonomic qualities – the test route included tight and twisty ‘country lanes’, 17% hill stops and starts, as well as circuits of a high-speed bowl. They were also put through reversing tests. These four days of rigorous evaluation highlighted that every vehicle could be considered a respectable towcar, so long as it was properly matched to its caravan.

Price class awards in the competition went to: the MG6 S DTI-TECH; Renault Captur Dynamique Nav dCi 110; Volkswagen Jetta SE 2.0-litre TDI BlueMotion Technology 150 PS DSG; Škoda Octavia Estate Scout 2.0TDI 150PS 4x4; Volkswagen Passat Estate GT 2.0-litre TDI SCR 190 PS DSG; Volkswagen Touareg R-Line 3.0-litre V6 TDI 262 PS 4MOTION; and the Land Rover Discovery HSE LUX.

From these class winners, it was the Land Rover Discovery that took the overall victory. It can accommodate ‘massive amounts of luggage’ and is available with a handy TowAssist guidance system.

All-wheel drive vehicles competed in two additional weight categories; ‘Under 1,800kg’ and ‘Over 1,800kg’. Of course, the Land Rover Discovery took the ‘Over 1,800kg’ prize, while the Volkswagen Passat Estate GT 2.0-litre Bi-TDI SCR 240 PS 4MOTION took first place in the Under 1,800kg category. Volkswagen also took home the ‘Judges Award for Innovation’, for its fabulous ‘Trailer Assist’ feature, which allows you to reverse the car and trailer using only the door mirror controls and the accelerator pedal.

The results of the competition were announced at The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the Royal Automobile Club in London on 24 September.

Motorists give red light to driverless cars Motorists could stop self-driving cars in their tracks with more than 70 per cent ready to turn their backs on the march of automotive progress, according to a new survey. ust over five per cent of motorists asked by the UK’s largest specialist insurance broker Adrian Flux said they would embrace the new technology that’s causing such a buzz in the motoring world, with 24 per cent undecided.

Google has sunk millions of dollars into developing autonomous vehicles that have so far travelled more than 1.7 million miles with just 11 minor accidents all the fault of other drivers.

But despite the clear implications for road safety, 70.3 per cent of 1,784 customers surveyed by Flux, which specialises in providing cover for modified and unusual vehicles, gave a red light to giving control of their driving to a computer.

Of those, more than 45 per cent don’t like the idea of not being in control, while nearly 36 per cent said they simply enjoy driving too much to hand over the reins.

Nearly five per cent worry about the implications of hacking, 4.4 per cent fear they will be too expensive, and 2.9 per cent don’t believe they

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will ever catch on.

One customer said: “I love the overall driving experience and being in control. I love technological advance but love to drive and the overall experience and the sensation it provides.”

Another, who spent a career in IT, added: “I know that if something could go wrong, there will come a time when it will.”

With even current cars open to hacking, including a Jeep that was brought to a halt on a US highway by a laptop-wielding hacker, some people are loathe to put their safety in the hands of a computer.

“I would not want my safety decided by a software engineer,” said one respondent, while another added: “Quite simply they have CPUs that by their very nature can be hacked in much the same way wi-fi can be hijacked.”

Gerry Bucke, general manager at Flux, said the survey showed that the biggest obstacle to the uptake of driverless cars is people’s love of driving, fear of the unknown and reluctance to give yet more of their lives over to computers.

“There appears little doubt that driverless cars will become a reality

68 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

in one form or another, but motorists are clearly struggling with the idea of giving up the freedom of the open road and simple pleasure of driving great cars,” he added.

“Many people have a real passion for cars and driving, and if vehicles are all essentially the same, moving around the country at fixed speeds with no input from the driver, one of life’s pleasures will be taken away.

“The biggest stumbling block to this new technology, however good it may be, could well be that people simply don’t want it.”

7 more reasons people said no to driverless cars: 1 We are a long way from having such devices as a practical option.

A mix of self-driving cars and 'driver' driven cars would seem a recipe for disaster.

2 I don't trust the ability to write software to control a vehicle without including bugs.

3 I am worried that when they develop faults (and they will - all cars do), the consequences could be a whole lot more serious than with conventional cars.

4 You will never enjoy going for a drive for pleasure again.

5 A person can make better decisions than a computer in certain circumstances.

6 Hacking is proven to be prolific and systems are not secure - one hack is one too many.

7 How will they cope once people learn that they can step or ride out and expect cars to stop, regardless of potential injury to occupants in an emergency stop? What about being stopped and robbed or attacked?

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Discover wealth of parts Fleet award for D-Max & accessories at Rimmer

For the second year running, the Isuzu D-Max has won the ‘Pick-Up Truck of the Year’ prize at the Commercial Fleet Awards. The triumph was announced at a ceremony held recently at The International Centre in Telford.

Rimmer Bros have just launched a Free Parts and Accessories Catalogue for the Land Rover Discovery 3. his new 114 page catalogue replaces their previous “Quick finder” listing which had been around for a number of years. The new catalogue is the result of careful research and extremely detailed work, covering all years of Discovery 3 production. The listings include everything from service items to accessories and cover both UK and European models in detail.

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Ordering parts has never been easier!

Apart from producing a nice glossy catalogue, they actually stock the parts too, Rimmer Bros have worked hard to source as many of the currently available parts as possible - and price them competitively. Their fast and

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tephen Briers, Commercial Fleet editor, commented: “Isuzu specialises in pick-ups with a network that understands the needs of fleets. The judges praised the D-Max’s five-year warranty, level of safety equipment and 3.5-tonne towing limit, and said that it is very competitive from a total cost of ownership perspective. As well as being a rugged performer and very capable off-road, the D-Max is equally at home on-road and delivers a comfortable, impressive driving experience.”

The prestigious annual Commercial Fleet Awards are highly regarded by motor manufacturers, supplier and fleet groups and individuals, since the judges base their selections on those who have achieved the highest possible level of excellence in their sector. The jury is made up of the Fleet News editorial team and experts from across the industry.

efficient worldwide mail order service means you can receive them quickly too! Their superbly detailed website features an online version of this catalogue, showing current availability, photos of the parts and prices and in some cases fitting instructions and videos . Ordering parts has never been easier!

To order your free copy call Rimmer Bros on 01522 568000, email sales@rimmerbros.co.uk or visit www.rimmerbros.co.uk

Isuzu’s UK’s General Manager, William Brown, commented: “This is well-deserved recognition of the continuing hard work and impeccable service delivered by our fleet sales team and our dealer network. It’s also testament to the attributes with which the D-Max continues to make a compelling case for fleet buyers: an unrivalled combination of class-leading capabilities, exceptional refinement and low ownership costs.”

The judges praised the D-Max’s five-year warranty, level of safety equipment and 3.5-tonne towing limit Following record sales of more than 5,500 units in 2014 (up 33.7% over 2013), registrations for the first eight months of this year up again by 27.7%, demonstrating the continuous growth of the reputation of the D-Max.

October 2015 | Farming Monthly | 69

| Motors

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| Motors

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

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| Motors

It’s a first - SsangYong Tivoli nominated for World Car of the Year The newly launched SsangYong Tivoli compact SUV has been nominated for World Car of The Year (WCOTY) 2016, the first ever nomination for SsangYong.

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ust 20 new cars have been nominated for the 2016 World Car of the Year title, which is

independently recognised as the number one car award in the world.

Now in its eleventh year, WCOTY was established in 2005, and the 2016 winner will be

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announced in New York in late March next year.

“This is a huge accolade for the Tivoli and SsangYong,” commented Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “Suffice to

say, we are absolutely delighted!”

The petrol powered Tivoli was launched in Korea earlier this year, and internationally in May. Tivoli diesel was launched internationally at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA).

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| Motors

Mariah Carey, robots, a bear and the €50,000 bottle of green tea - how Nissan develops its crossovers

The seemingly bizarre objects used by Nissan to test its crossovers are revealed for the first time. inger Mariah Carey might not know it, but she plays a crucial role in the development of every Nissan Crossover. So do a brown bear and a selection of cups and bottles from around the world.

For the first time, Crossover market-leader Nissan is revealing the extreme measures it uses to test its new cars - including the XTrail, Juke and the recordbreaking** Qashqai.

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Last year, Nissan Crossover sales exceeded 400,000 in Europe delivering a combined market share of 12.7% The rigorous engineering approach aims to replicate the real-life and sometimes arduous usage that the vehicles experience in every-day situations. This ensures that customers can be confident of first-class build quality and durability and, that Nissan has considered customers' needs and market trends.

Since the first Crossover was conceived in 2007, Nissan has conducted more than 150,000 tests across the Crossover range.

These include: • Using special robots to open and close the windows at least 30,000 times per model, while using specific volcanic dust imported from Japan to test against scratching and ensure durable functioning of the electric window mechanism • Activating the windscreen wipers for 480 hours at different speeds and settings, as well as in simulated varied weather conditions • Deploying the indicators right and left 2.25 million times on every model • Playing the stereo at high volume for a total of 1,200 days (that's 1,728,000 minutes) using specifically selected music tracks to encompass the widest range of pitch and beat. These include Mariah Carey for the high notes and the thumping bass of German House music • Dropping weights to ensuring the glass roof can withstand the weight of a brown bear climbing on the car • Using a host of different cups, bottles and containers to check the usefulness of the cupholders and door pockets Such is the dedication to perfection that engineers even decided to redesign the front door pocket of the Qashqai when it

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emerged that the new bottle of a popular brand of Japanese Green Tea would not fit without being slightly squeezed. Rather than risk customer dissatisfaction the design was modified at a cost of more than €50,000.

The same engineers and their ingenious robot helpers have also opened the bonnets of its Crossovers collectively more than 48,000 times and the doors an astounding 1.2 million times. This may seem extreme, but it has to exceed the anticipated usage of these parts by customers during the cars' lifetime.

Nissan Crossovers have also set new standards in interior design. Over twenty driver seat variations have been evaluated and tested for comfort over 300 times, with the interior finishes further tested against tricky everyday stains such as chocolate and oil, lipstick, hair gel and coffee.

David Moss, Senior VicePresident at Nissan Europe Technical Centre said, "Some of

the devices we have created and instruments we use might make us look like mad inventors. But they are all there to make sure that Nissan's range of Crossovers are thoroughly tested to meet the needs of our customers - and will continue to do so for years to come."

It's a strategy which is clearly working. Last year, Nissan Crossover sales exceeded 400,000 in Europe delivering a combined market share of 12.7%. This further highlights Nissan's place as the sector-leader and demonstrates the unique styling, excellent efficiency and advanced technologies that Nissan Crossovers offer is what today's European customers are seeking.

For more information about Nissan, its Crossover range and other passenger and light commercial vehicles, as well as the brand's commitment to sustainable mobility, please visit your local dealer.

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MTC Subaru Cambridgeshire 01733 822 943

Maple Garage Ltd East Riding of Yorkshire 01964 782295

Cambridge Subaru Cambridgeshire 01223 633 706

www.mtc-subaru.co.uk

www.maplegarage-subaru.co.uk

www.cambridge-subaru.co.uk

Perkins Essex 01371 483 379

Unity Leicester Leicester 01162 149 060

Burrells Motor Group South Yorkshire 01302 515 767

www.perkins-subaru.co.uk

www.unityleicester-subaru.co.uk

www.burrellsmotorgroup-subaru.co.uk

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76 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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Likes Land Rover

Lloyds Kelso

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

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

Guy Salmon Knutsford

Kentdale Kendal

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

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

Guy Salmon Wakefield

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

01924 695658, www.guysalmon.wakefield.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

Carrs Land Rover, Truro

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

01872 263 377, www.carrs.truro.landrover.co.uk

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

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| Motors

The new BMW X1 BMW’s compact Sports Activity Vehicle, the X1, has been a huge success since its launch in 2009. More than 730,000 were sold globally of that first generation with nearly 40,000 new owners of X1 in the UK over the same period. ow an all-new BMW X1 has been unveiled and features dynamic BMW X styling, a sporting character blended with outstanding efficiency, and an array of innovative equipment features in comfort, safety and infotainment.

Featuring an all-new range of engines and gearboxes, not to mention the latest, ultra-efficient version of the xDrive all-wheeldrive system, the second

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generation of the BMW X1 exemplifies BMW’s EfficientDynamics philosophy. At market launch, one petrol engine and three diesel options are offered.

The new car has grown most notably in height compared to its predecessor (+53mm), which helps to create extra space in the interior.

The versatility typical of this new BMW X model is expressed not only in the driving characteristics of the X1 on various types of

terrain and the sporting exterior looks, but also in the way its interior can be used, with more space for passengers and luggage.

The new BMW X1 uses completely new powertrain and chassis technology: front/transverse-mounted fourcylinder engines from the BMW Group’s latest generation, and a

newly developed BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system or an advanced front-wheel-drive configuration, depending on the model variant.

The new BMW X1 will be available from launch with one petrol and three diesel units, each with 2.0-litre displacement and BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

London, was delighted to hand over the vehicles. “The all-new XC90’s class-leading powertrains makes it economically and environmentally suitable for business use, but also retains the practicality of the original and the usability that made it a firm favourite for the team at ALD,” he noted.

“It’s a testament to Volvo and XC90 that a number of the senior management team at ALD chose

the seven seat SUV for their business and personal needs. We know our Volvo customers’ desire not only stunning-looking cars but cars that make their lives easier by delivering the latest technology, in a user-friendly manner. ” Endeavour’s Business Centre currently deliver over 500 new Volvo vehicles a year all around the UK and remains one of Volvo UK’s best performing centres.

Volvo XC90 is top choice with ALD Automotive A number of the ALD Automotive senior management team have recently taken delivery of Volvo’s awardwinning all-new XC90 at ALD Automotive’s Headquarters in Bristol as new 65 plates continue to roll off the Volvo forecourt. major factor observed by all of the recipients was the XC90’s obvious versatility. With seven spacious seats it can carry all the family and, for ALD Automotive operations director, Greg Taylor, it made perfect sense for his own family’s needs.

Greg Taylor, commented: “The allnew XC90 made such a strong impression with myself and my colleagues that it instantly became the front-runner. We’re now all looking forward to experiencing the car’s extensive list of

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capabilities and getting out on the road.”

ALD Automotive is the second largest vehicle leasing operation in Europe and manages over 1 million vehicles across 40 countries worldwide. Within the UK, ALD finance and manage over 117,000 vehicles providing customers with total fleet management flexibility from pure financing of cars and vans to comprehensive outsourcing operations.

John Wadeson, Business Centre Manager at Endeavour Automotive which represents six Volvo dealerships in and around

78 | Farming Monthly | October 2015

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

MAPLE GARAGE LTD East Yorkshire 01964 782 292 www.maplegarage-isuzu.co.uk

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

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

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Boston 01205 449 762 www.duckworths-isuzu.co.uk

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

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 Market Rasen 01673 799 393 www.duckworths-isuzu.co.uk

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

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