October 2016 Farming Monthly National

INSIDE: Sheep industry post Brexit trade agreements page 24

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2016

Also in this issue...

Energy

| The future for on-farm AD page 45

Alternatives to glyphosphate?...

Also inside this month..

| Innovative Farmers investigate terminating cover crops page 10

Dairy farmers short changed?.. p07

Sukup Chain Loop Conveyor p37

Kellogg’s farming cookbook p12

PLUS: Sheep | Security| Slurry |Arable| Machinery | Forestry | Energy | ATV | Motors

CONTENTS October 2016

FEATURES 08

19

12 Arable Benefits of cover cropping...

14 CropTec Show preview & new products showcased...

24

35 Grain

37

40 Forestry

Weetabix marks harvest 2016, plus new product news..

38 Fencing

Australian innovation to help save hardwood de-forestation

42 Slurry

Time to look at your boundaries...

Liquid manure volume reduced by half..

20 SALTEX Show preview...

22 Midland Machinery Show Put 23rd & 24th November in your diary for the third installment of the popular show..

REGULARS 06 News Increased BPS for 2016?

24 Sheep Trade deals & Brexit, RamCompare, Sheep dog trials...and a poem?...

32 UK Dairy Day Post show round-up..

04 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

10 On Topic Alternatives to Glyphosphate?

45 Energy Focus on AD & Biogas..

26 Machinery Latest news..

48 ATV ATV news...covered.

52 Motors Latest motors news

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

48

Agriculture. Covered.

EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com

Alternatives to glyphosphate? p10

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October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

Farmers to expect higher payment from Basic Payment Scheme 2016 Tim Sedgewick of H&H Land and Property explains why BPS payments will be worth approximately 16.54% more this year, after the fall in the value of the pound. he official exchange rate used to transfer payments from Euros to Sterling will be €1 = £0.85228, as set by the European Central Bank every 30 September.

The European Central Bank’s exchange rate is the most positive for BPS payments since 2011 when €1 was worth £0.86665.

BPS payments last year were based on an exchange rate of €1 = £0.73129.

The value of the pound against the euro has been falling since the end of last year and plummeted after the UK’s vote to leave the EU on 23 June.

Therefore UK farmers being paid in Sterling will collect approximately £208.44 per ha of Non-SDA land claimed in 2016 contrasting to the £178.85 they received in 2015. For SDA entitlements farmers will receive approximately £206.94 per ha in

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2016 different to £177.56 in 2015, and for Moorland entitlements farmers will receive approximately £54.67 per ha in 2016 as opposed to £46.91 in 2015.

Tim Sedgewick of H&H Land and Property comments: “This will be welcome news for many farmers awaiting the BPS 2016 support payment later this year.

Most found their BPS payments in 2015 well down on what they were expecting; this was partly down to the lower exchange rate than 2014. However, there were a number of claimants who had their payment affected by omissions and errors by the Rural Payments Agency. They struggled to grasp the new system imposed on them by the EU and it is vital that those mistakes aren’t repeated this year.”

In context, a farmer claiming on Non-SDA entitlements who received £20,000 in 2015 should receive in the region of £23,308 for the same size claim in 2016 when

06 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

Tim Sedgewick

payments begin from the 1st December. The RPA have set a

target to pay 90% of claimants before the end of 2016.

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| News

Land prices to remain Dairy farmers being buoyant in the long term short-changed to tune of £200 million, says NFU It is now nearly 100 days (October 1st) since the announcement of a Brexit and Bidwells have seen land deals agreed with prices from £7,000 to £13,000/acre for commercial blocks of bare land ranging from 80 to 300 acres, indicating that the demand for land remains, with the theme of wide-ranging prices looking set to continue.

rice aspirations do need to be at the right level and increasingly, private or ‘quiet deals’ are the order of the day. If judged well, this can be a successful venture for all concerned – vendors have the certainty of a sale which meets their criteria and buyers take comfort from the fact they are getting what they want without being fully exposed to the ‘unknown investor’.

According to Ben Taylor at Bidwells there seems to be less correlation between the productive capacity of a farm, in terms of the land quality and the price it is likely to achieve. The greater influence now is how the land purchase may fit into a neighbouring landowner’s plans and their own respective

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financial strength. This, allied to the fear of missing out to competition, has a far greater influence on the end result of the sale than the quality of the soil (albeit the latter should obviously not be completely disregarded).

Whilst the Chancellor’s statement on August 13, announcing that the current level of funding under the CAP Pillar 1 is to be upheld to 2020, will have encouraged many, the reality is, that the vast majority of investors will be operating far beyond a fouryear time horizon.

With only circa 0.25% of the total farmed area of the UK available to purchase, supply will continue to be restricted and as a consequence, it is likely that values will remain relatively buoyant.

Market indicators show dairy farmers are being shortchanged to the tune of £200 million pounds, the NFU said today. It’s calling for milk buyers to recognise the strength of current markets and start paying fair, sustainable prices to their milk suppliers.

fter two years of turmoil in the dairy sector, during which time milk prices for many farmers have been, and continue to be, below the cost of production, commodity markets have now quickly turned.

Evidence shows market signals are pointing skywards with spot prices for milk now approaching 40ppl and quotes for next month hitting 50ppl.

But speaking on the eve of The Dairy Show on Wednesday (October 5), NFU dairy board chairman Michael Oakes said that milk buyers are lagging behind in passing on the huge lifts in market prices to their suppliers.

“Since May this year market indicators have started to show a massive differential between what prices dairy farmers should have got compared to what they actually did get – between June and September this adds up to around £200 million”, said Mr Oakes.

Dairy analyst Chris Walkland has being doing the sums – they show that back in August AHDB’s AMPE and MCVE indicators were 26ppl and 28ppl respectively while future price indicators continue to be positive. Even today most nonaligned prices are still at or below 20ppl with the August Defra average milk price, which included

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aligned prices only reaching 21.34ppl.

“Clearly milk buyers should be concerned as to where their future milk supply will come from”, said Mr Oakes. “That’s why recently we’ve seen Dale Farm Northern Ireland encourage more milk supply for the next three months.

Any extra litres supplied to the cooperative will receive an extra 4ppl on top of a 2ppl winter premium.

“Since May this year market indicators have started to show a massive differential between what prices dairy farmers should have got compared to what they actually did get” “Farmers have been patient, understanding the time lag that is part of dairy trade. But that reason is starting to wear thin, as we need to start considering increased costs of winter housing and feeding. Our message is clear – until milk buyers start backing British dairy farmers and start paying fair, sustainable milk prices, volumes will not recover.

“Dairy farmers want to produce milk and the only way milk buyers can pull the dairy sector out of this nose dive is to quickly pay them a profitable price for their milk.”

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 07

| Feature

The Glamping Show: A truly International event The sun broke through the clouds on the first morning of the Glamping Show and continued to shine throughout the three days, bringing with it a truly international visiting audience. ollowing the success of the first Glamping Show in 2015, word of the event has spread far and wide attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. Existing glampsite owners and those planning to launch their own glamping business came not just from the UK but also from all around the globe, including Australia, Canada, USA, Israel, Slovenia, Italy, France, the Netherlands and registrations received from 33 countries in total including Mexico, Costa Rica, Israel, the USA, Greece, Napal and many more.

New exhibitor, Steve Watson, Owner of Landpod, said: “As this is our very first show with the Landpod we weren’t sure what to expect but have been blown away by the quality of visitor. We’ve had interest from all sorts of people including some large organisation such as the National Trust and from visitors as far afield as Nicaragua. It has certainly exceeded all our expectations and has been well worth exhibiting.”

Young businessman, Alex Cash of Littleholme, added: “I have received some really good quality leads, all of whom have requested a site visit, so I am going to be very busy for the foreseeable future. The Glamping Show has literally changed my business and propelled it forward.”

Since the launch of the Show, buzz around

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the industry about the 100% glamping focus of the event has quickly established it as the perfect industry meeting point.

Karen Cooke, Director of Swan Events, explained: “Our measure of success for the show is based on how well all of our exhibitors do over the 3 days of the event as well as how well we meet visitor expectations. The exhibitors want to leave having written real business as well as picking up quality leads to follow up after the show. If this is achieved they will return and have confidence to use the show as a launch platform for new products and structures which keeps the show fresh and exciting. On the flip side, visitors want to know that they will discover new products and new ideas as well as having the chance to meet up with friends and colleagues that they may not have seen for a while.”

Karen added: “As organisers we want the Glamping Show to become the industry gathering point, an annual event that everyone wants to be involved in and the feeling at this year’s show is that we are well on the road to achieving just that.”

There is no doubting the thirst for knowledge in this young industry was more than evident over the three days as virtually every seminar was packed to capacity. Industry experts were in attendance throughout the Show and presented on everything needed to make a

success of a glamping business including Kate Morel talking about ‘What Can WE Learn from International Glamping Developments, Max McMurdo presenting on ‘Creating Affordable Glamping Solutions’ and Mark Scott providing a Guide to Getting into Glamping’.

Mrs Cheney from Furtheringhay is planning to establish a glamping business and came specially to attend several of the seminars. Of Mark Scott’s seminar she said: “The presentation by Mark Scott was incredibly informative and has certainly given me pause for thought about my plans and how I will go about implementing them. The whole Show has been excellent.”

“We’ve had interest from all sorts of people including some large organisation such as the National Trust and from visitors as far afield as Nicaragua” As the doors close on the Glamping Show 2016, the organisers are already looking forward to 2017 and taking on board the lessons learnt this year and to welcoming back exhibitor and visitor to an even bigger and better event.

Ian Bell, Chief Executive, Addington Fund

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| News

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October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 09

| On Topic

Innovative Farmers look for alternatives to glyphosate in order to terminate cover crops Anglia Farmers are running a new field lab through the Innovative Farmers network, investigating alternative ways to terminate cover crops.

10 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| On Topic

any farmers rely on the chemical herbicide glyphosate to destroy unwanted crops at certain points within the crop rotation, but with uncertainty over its future availability there is a desire to find new methods. These Innovative Farmers are getting ahead of the curve and finding new ways to establish a successful minimum tillage system without the use of chemical sprays.

For organic farmers, finding ways to reduce their reliance on ploughing will help to enhance soil health further and potentially reduce overall use of fossil fuels for successful crop establishment.

Lara Clabburn, Anglia Farmers Group Coordinator said; “This field lab is very exciting as it unites all farmers in finding better ways to cultivate soil, establish crops, maintain or improve soil structure and ultimately increase profit margin. It is already catalysing new ideas for cover crop destruction and preparation for crop establishment. The aim is to find and develop new tools which will help us to reduce our reliance on glyphosate.”

Already several organic farmers have joined the group and the field lab is expected to attract

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attention from both organic farmers looking to do more minimum or no tillage, and conventional farmers wishing to reduce their reliance on glyphosate.

One of the participants of the field lab group is Andrew Woof who is a member of Organic Arable and farms 500 acres of organic, mostly arable land at Weston Farm in Oxfordshire.

After reading about work in Japan and the US, he plans to use a roller crimper to turn his cover crop into a weed supressing and nutrient providing mass of stems. He can then drill directly through it, meaning no plough, and minimum compaction.

Andrew said; “I started looking for a way that I could improve my soil by enriching it with biomass and keeping soil disturbance to a minimum – So reducing compaction and preventing nutrient mineralisation.

“Joining Innovative Farmers gave me the inspiration to start thinking of things from a different angle. I hope that, through the field lab with Anglia Farmers, we might be able to find some conclusive evidence for using minimum tillage in soil management, resulting in carbon capture through increased organic matter and so an improved bottom line.’’

As well as trialling Andrew’s suggestion of a roller crimper, the group will look at other techniques to reduce the use of glyphosate and help reduce input costs.

The network has a range of supporters, bringing significant knowledge and experience to the field lab. Research partners of Innovative Farmers include: ADAS; Duchy College; the Centre for Agroecology, Water & Resilience at Coventry University; the Food Security & Land Research Alliance; IBERS; Harper Adams University; Rothamsted Research; and the University of Bristol.

There will be a meeting on the 2nd of November 2016 at Shimpling Park Farms in Suffolk, for those wishing to find out more or get involved, it will include lunch and a farm walk. If you would like to attend please email lara.clabburn@angliafarmers.co.uk Innovative Farmers is part of the Duchy Future Farming Programme, funded by the Prince of Wales’s Charitable Foundation. The network is backed by a team from LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), Innovation for Agriculture, the Organic Research Centre and the Soil Association, and supported by Waitrose.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

Farming ‘cookbook’ reveals the ground breaking benefits of cover cropping A ground-breaking study has revealed that cover cropping can increase crop yields, boost soil health and bring about a range of environmental benefits. n the study of 13 Kellogg’s farmers by the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB), farmers who used cover crops saw yield responses up by 10 per cent and a 50 per cent reduction in nitrogen leeching.

In more than 90 per cent of farms the number of worms increased which increased which are essential for healthy, functioning soils.

Interestingly more than three quarters of Kellogg's Origins farmers farms that used cover crops reached their worm target – compared to half for those that didn’t.

Cover cropping is the plants

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covering the soil on farmland between the harvest and sowing the next set of crops – it helps to prevent soil erosion, improve soil structure, increase organic matter and suppress weeds and pests.

The results of the study have been condensed into a ‘Cover Crop Cook Book’, which gives guidance on agronomy to farmers and offers a range of practical approaches to cover cropping.

The book has been shared with 3,000 farmers and experts throughout the UK in the hope they’ll take up cover cropping and share their knowledge to develop best practice.

Ann Noble, Kellogg’s sustainability manager, said: “This study arose from engagement with our Kellogg’s Origins farmers. At

12 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

Kellogg’s, we want to ensure the sustainability of our farmers’ crops with better quality grains and healthy soils.

“One of the key areas we’re looking at is the use of cover crops, which is not only a great way of improving soil structure and supporting biodiversity but also – according to this ground breaking study – yield a business benefit too.

“When the research for the report began, we were aware of the potential benefits of cover cropping, but there wasn’t a great deal of fieldwork – until now.”

Ron Stobart, NIAB’s head of Farming Systems Research, said: “If you travelled 100 years back in time, most farmers would have known about cover cropping, but

for so long now the answer has come in a bag, with artificial fertilisers.

“Now resources are scarcer, and companies like Kellogg’s are leading the way in integrating the best sustainable practices with modern commercial production.

“There’s a great deal of interest among the farming community in managing soil resources, and with this study we’ve brought some science on what was a bit of a grey area to get some answers on the benefits of cover cropping.

“It’s given Kellogg’s growers confidence, achieved great buy-in, and we’re happy to share that knowledge in the Cover Crop Cook Book.”

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| Arable

Attention to detail can add value to maize silage As farmers look to harvest their maize crops, attention to detail will pay dividends, guaranteeing a good looking crop in the field and resulting in a quality silage in the clamp.

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aize is an intensive crop to grow,” explains Dr Simon Pope, Crop Protection Manager for

Wynnstay.

“A lot of money, time and effort goes into producing the crop, but often growers overlook the attention to detail that’s needed to get maize harvested in good condition, and ensiled correctly, to limit nutritional losses.

“This year, maize is likely to yield very well and be of a high quality thanks to the good growing weather. This doesn’t happen every year, so growers should make the most of this and protect their crop in the clamp,” he adds.

“The main issues are losses due to aerobic spoilage and heating of the face, which devalues the Dry Matter (DM) feeding values.”

Research has shown that a 10oC rise in silage temperature at the clamp face over a three-day period can result in a loss of DM valued at £125/100 tonnes of 33% DM maize silage. Or more simply put, £1.25/tonne of silage.

“Treatment with an appropriate

silage additive can considerably reduce this spoilage, and although additives are considered by some to be an unnecessary cost, they should be seen as protection for farmers’ investment,” explains Dr Pope.

“This year it’s even more important to consider as early results are showing the potential for high DM contents at harvest.

For example, new variety Reason is positioned on the NIAB forage maize list with a very early maturity and outstanding DM yield, and this is being reflected by the variety’s performance in the field.”

“At a target harvest DM of 32% and with a high yield of high ME silage, it is important to minimise losses of this valuable resource,” he says.

Dr Pope suggests that by focussing extra attention in a few key areas, this can be achieved.

“Consolidation of the pit is key to a successful fermentation process, and filling in layers of six to nine inches allows for effective compaction when rolled to expel as much air as possible. The less oxygen present, the lower the risks of losses due to aerobic spoilage.

“Alongside good clamp

Dr Simon Pope

management, the use of an additive will help to further reduce costly losses in feed value during the ensiling process. So, there should be more maize to feed out, with higher nutritive quality, resulting in better animal performance,” he adds.

“Maize is sometimes seen as a tricky crop to grow. However, as long as close attention is given throughout the process, farmers shouldn’t experience losses at the final stage, and they should end up with a high yield of a quality crop.”

Valuing Your Soils: New Guidance for Scottish Farmers, Crofters & Land Managers It can take 500 years to replace 25 mm (1 inch) of top soil, yet in the UK it is estimated that 2.9 million tonnes of soil are eroded each year, and soil quality is diminished by poor practices. “Valuing Your Soils”, is newly published guidance, which will help Scottish farmers, crofters and land managers protect and manage their most valuable resource. his is important because farmers are under increasing pressure from climatic events, like last winter’s heavy rains, which had dramatic effects on farm businesses across Scotland. Poor drainage and waterlogged fields can encourage soil compaction problems contributing to poor nutrient uptake by crops and reduced yields. Less obvious are issues associated with poorly drained grasslands which, for example, can encourage parasites leading to poor livestock nutrition and health.

Mark Aitken, Principal Policy Officer for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), who requested the production of this much needed

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practical advice, said “Protecting Scotland’s soils and environment is now more important than ever in the face of current economic, climatic and environmental challenges. The “Valuing Your Soils” brochure encourages good management practices that will improve soil quality, help maintain healthy soils and in turn improve farm profits and protect the environment. The publication is also immensely useful because it highlights the importance of good soil structure in protecting and improving water quality, and also helping to reduce flood risks.”

The new guidance (funded by CREW (Centre of Expertise for Waters) at the request of SEPA) was produced with input from Scottish farmers, researchers and consultants from Scotland’s Rural

College and industry experts guided by a steering group including CREW, SEPA, industry levy body AHDB, NFUS, Scottish Water, SNH, QMS, Forestry Commission Scotland and the Scottish Government.

Brochures will be distributed at the Royal Highland Show and other agricultural shows across the country. Electronic versions can be downloaded at http://www.sruc.ac.uk/info/120603/ farming_and_water_scotland.

There is useful information about Scotland’s agricultural soils and practical advice outlining the upfront financial savings and business benefits of better soil management and the efficient use of resources. Action and problemspecific ‘field-sheets’ are designed for busy farmers with limited time for reading. The appendix contains

more detailed technical information and research case studies highlighting evidence from current investigations of Scottish farm soils.

Web links within the brochure will help increase awareness of good management practices, funding opportunities and the current regulations concerning soils in Scotland (e.g. Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions and the Diffuse Pollution General Binding Rules).

NOTE: This document is a replacement for the 2005 Farm Soils Plan, produced by SAC and was based on Getting the Most from Your Soil”, a booklet produced in 2012 for Welsh livestock farmers by Meat Promotion Wales and the former Environment Agency Wales.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 13

| CropTec

CropTec 2016: Helping farmers remain competitive in a dynamic arable sector More than 140 exhibitors displaying the latest science and technology will be attending CropTec 2016 when it returns to Peterborough showground at the end of November. he event will also feature an informationpacked seminar programme delivered by leading specialists, underlining CropTec’s position as the essential technical event for arable and mixed farmers, their advisers and associated industries.

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“CropTec provides farmers with a unique opportunity to find ideas, inspiration and answers” Building on three very successful years, the show promises to be the biggest and

most relevant yet, says Elisabeth Mork-Eidem, Group Head of Events at show organiser Briefing Media Agriculture.

“CropTec provides farmers with a unique opportunity to find ideas, inspiration and answers on everything from crop protection and nutrition to plant breeding and soil management in one place,” she adds.

“But it is very much a two-way process – CropTec is all about knowledge exchange, creating the ideal forum for visitors, exhibitors and researchers to exchange ideas and experiences for their mutual benefit.”

The event remains free for farmers and agronomists to attend, provided tickets are

14 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

booked in advance.

CropTec takes place at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th November.

For further information and to book tickets go to www.croptecshow.com CropTec 2016 summary • CropTec seminars Over 20 leading speakers covering four key areas – crop breeding, crop protection, crop nutrition and crop establishment.

• Exhibition halls More than 140 leading suppliers of

the latest technology, products, machines and services are on hand to discuss latest developments.

• Knowledge hubs A grain marketing and storage hub and a black-grass hub have been introduced and the popular spraying technology and business hubs return. Short, sharp presentations that deliver key takeaway messages.

• Sprayer demonstration area An exclusive opportunity to test drive the latest sprayers in the market from leading manufacturers.

• BASIS and NRoSO points.

A maximum of six BASIS and six NRoSO points per day are on offer.

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| CropTec

Farmers & beekeepers can BeeConnected this season New website launches to improve two-way relationship between farmers and beekeepers. he relationship between farmers and beekeepers is a vital one. In the UK around 70 of the crops grown are dependent on, or benefit from visits from bees, a value which is estimated at over £200 million per year.

While the importance of bees to UK agriculture is profound, it has not always been straightforward for farmers and beekeepers to communicate directly with each other. However, a new service – BeeConnected – launched nationwide on the 12th September aims to address this issue by digitalising the process of farmers informing beekeepers of their intention to spray an insecticide.

The project is being led by The Voluntary Initiative (VI) and Chairman Richard Butler says BeeConnected has been designed to work quickly and efficiently for farmers and beekeepers alike. He says: “BeeConnected operates on a very simple, yet efficient, two-way process whereby farmers identify their fields and, in just a few clicks, are able to inform local beekeepers when they intend to

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spray an insecticide in particular fields. Beekeepers plot the location of their hives, and will then receive a notification ahead of when a farmer within their locality is planning to undertake a spray event.”

A two-way process The launch of BeeConnected follows a successful pilot which took place in Hertfordshire during the spring spraying season.

Andrew Watts, a farmer with 2250 hectares of combinable crops and grassland in North East Hertfordshire, was one of the participants in the trial. He emphasises that BeeConnected is a useful tool when it comes to improving how both farmers and beekeepers interact.

“The countryside is a shared place, and beekeepers need farmers as much as farmers need beekeepers. It’s a two-way process, and anything that improves the communication there – as BeeConnected does – is a good thing.”

Mr Watts has always had a good relationship with both his Spray Liaison Officer (SLO) and the local beekeepers, but emphasises that these relationships have been built on

strong communication and mutual understanding: “It doesn’t happen overnight; you have to work at it. And we do what we can to help. For example, bees are early risers, but they’re early to bed too. So when we spray our beans for bruchid beetle, we tend to spray late in the evening.”

Open communication Improving communication is also a key benefit of BeeConnected for Mat Smith, a beekeeper based in Bishop’s Stortford. During the pilot he noted that the website was a big improvement on the SLO system of communication.

“The current SLO system isn’t always effective,” he says, “The BeeConnected website is an excellent tool that can improve both bee health and relations between beekeepers and farmers.

“Honey bees are hugely beneficial to both their keepers, farmers and the larger population as a whole, and open communication between farmers

and beekeepers can only be a good thing.”

And for Mr Smith, who tends to three hives in his garden, the website proved to be a success in this regard.

“It was very easy to set up, and the alerts came through in time for me to take action to protect my bees,” he concludes, “I can’t think of any reason for beekeepers not to use this service!”

During the development of the project the VI worked closely with the National Farmers Union (NFU), the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) who were responsible for the initial BeeConnected proposal, and the Crop Protection Association (CPA), who funded the development of the site.

Mr Butler adds: “This is a great opportunity for all farmers and beekeepers nationwide to improve their communications, for a mutual benefit. We encourage all farmers and beekeepers to make full use of the site and register by visiting www.beeconnected.org.uk.”

Optimizing grain drying Allmet is helping its customers to reduce drying costs and increase drying capacity thanks to the launch of the Intelligent Dryer Control (IDC) System. his latest technical advance brought to the UK market is the result of Allmet's alliance with Tornum AB, a strategic business partnership that has seen the two companies share expertise and resources to focus on product research and development.

The IDC, is long-awaited in the grain market and will benefit customers by minimizing over drying, maximizing obtainable product quality, weight and prices and providing total process control.

Allmet Director, Charles White explained: "Drying grain precisely is a complex process that you want to get right to maximise the best possible price. When you use manual methods you run the risk of not reaching the desired moisture content levels, or over drying.

The IDC takes the guess work out of this by maintaining the average outgoing moisture content of the grain, despite large variations in incoming moisture content."

To illustrate the benefits of the IDC - overstepping the mark by

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drying to 13 percent instead of 14 can typically add up to 20 percent to your energy bill, give you an additional 1% loss in weight and reduce your dryer's capacity by up to 16 percent.

Fellow Allmet Director, James White added: "The IDC optimizes the drying process by using intelligent software that adapts to conditions. There's no need for manual adjustments you have total control over the drying process and can change the grain type and drying recipe where ever you are, at the touch a button either from a PC or a tablet."

Available in four different standard kits, the system consists of moisture sensors and a control unit with a user friendly interface. The first sensor is positioned in one of the upper drying sections and measures incoming moisture.

The second is placed in the cooling zone, close to the dryer outlet. Using information about incoming and outgoing moisture content, the control unit sets the speed of the dryer discharge to obtain the desired moisture content out of the dryer regardless of outside climatic conditions.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 15

| CropTec

Impressive arable portfolio from the new Elsoms Team at CropTec 2016 UK farmers and merchants now have a new source of competitive agricultural varieties that challenges the status quo of established suppliers. lsoms Seeds and Saaten Union have an impressive range of AHDB recommended and candidate cereals and oilseeds varieties, combined with a strong position in the burgeoning energy crop sector, a market leading hybrid cereals development programme, and a growing vining pea business.

Over recent years, farmers have seen a steady reduction in the number of significant suppliers of new products and varieties to the market. Elsoms have reversed this trend by working with similarly innovative, independent, specialist and technically strong businesses across Europe to build a portfolio of impressive arable varieties that is now attracting strong interest from across the industry.

“The strength of the Elsoms programme is underlined by our wide range of wheat varieties that are available to farmers in 2017” said Adrian Hayler, Head of Elsoms Agricultural Division. “This currently includes four AHDB candidate wheats, Bennington, Moulton, Freiston and Dunston, early maturing & high yielding AHDB recommended variety Belgrade, specialist alternative milling wheat Lennox as well as

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hybrid wheats Hybery and Hylux.”

“The launch of Trinity oilseed rape three years ago heralded the resurgence of our agricultural business,” commented Mark Nightingale, Elsoms Oilseed Rape Breeder. “This year we have built on this success with Elgar, newly recommended by AHDB, which has taken a major share of winter oilseed rape whilst AHDB candidate Skye has made a good start, being marketed exclusively

by United Oilseeds”.

The Elsoms portfolio now encompasses oats, barley, spring oats and spring malting barley.

AHBD candidate varieties of spring oats and spring malting barley were showcased at Cereals this year and performed well in this year’s official trials.

“Acorn spring barley demonstrated impressive malting potential combined with excellent disease resistance, whilst Chanson is a new null lox variety that provides growers with a real leap forward in terms of yield,” said Elsoms Seed Sales Specialist, George Goodwin. “Both oat varieties, Harmony and Yukon look promising and have attracted promising interest from merchants.”

The rapid growth of the energy crop sector over the last three years has driven one of the

biggest changes in arable cropping since the expansion of the oilseed rape market in in the 1990’s. Elsoms energy crop team of Heather Oldfield and Jonathan Baxendale, in combination with Saaten Union’s Bio Energy Division led by Dr Joachim Moeser, have worked closely with energy companies, merchants, famers, advisors and contractors to help develop the most efficient way of producing crops for energy production. Whilst maize remains the foundation of most energy crop programmes, many farmers are realising the considerable benefits that can be achieved by a sophisticated and integrated rotation that includes hybrid rye, triticale, energy beet and catch and cover crops as well as maize.

Heather Oldfield, Energy and Forage Crops Manager, Elsoms, commented “Our hybrid rye varieties such as SU Performer and SU Drive continue to take a

major share of this growing market and we have developed an exciting maize portfolio to combine with our established triticale varieties to provide farmers with an extensive range of energy crop options.”

Adrian Hayley, Head of the Agricultural Division, Elsoms, added “We have been delighted by the support we have received from across the agricultural sector over the last few years as our arable business has grown and we are proud that we can offer UK farmers a real alternative choice of a wide range of competitive varieties,”.

To find out more about the Elsoms rapidly expanding range of agricultural seed and the success of our varieties in 2016 trials, please visit our enthusiastic crop management teams on stand 138 at Croptec 2016 on 29–30 November at the East of England Showground, Peterborough.

AHDB opens door to arable advances at CropTec show Growers will be able to discuss arable advances with a diverse range of experts, when AHDB opens its stand’s door at the CropTec show. aking place on 29 to 30 November 2016 at the East of England Showground in Peterborough, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds stand (A25) has been designed to reflect the show’s main technical themes – Crop Breeding, Crop Nutrition, Crop Establishment and Crop Protection.

This year, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds is the official supporter of the Crop Breeding seminar programme. The support sees Dr Susannah Bolton, Director of Knowledge Exchange at AHDB, chair a seminar session aimed at promoting advances in crop genetics.

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Dr Bolton said: “Through prebreeding investment, Recommended Lists trials and inseason monitoring activity, we work hard to make sure growers’ crops have the best genetic underpinning possible.

“As our latest Recommended Lists for 2017/18 will be launched online the day before the event, CropTec provides us with a timely opportunity to discuss the latest varietal developments with growers.”

On the topic of crop nutrition, Sarah Clarke and Susie Roques of ADAS, will be available to discuss AHDB’s extensive review of the Fertiliser Manual (RB209).

Many changes to RB209 have been proposed, including

16 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

recommendations for additional crops and updated information on the nutrient content associated with organic materials. Visitors to the event will be among the first to hear about these changes and plans to launch the AHDB Nutrient Management Guide in 2017.

On the topic of crop establishment, Dr Amanda Bennett, AHDB, and Dr Andy Whitmore, Rothamsted Research, will focus on soil health.

In recent years, a range of indicators for soil health has been developed. Visitors to the stand will find out about research developing the guidance and tools needed so the indicators can be exploited by progressive arable farmers. Soil organic matter will be

a particular emphasis on the stand.

On the topic of crop protection, Dr Jon Knight, AHDB Head of Crop Health & Protection, will outline AHDB’s investment in resistance management, crop protection trials and integrated pest management.

The AHDB stand will also include staff from the Knowledge Exchange team – to discuss the AHDB Monitor Farm programme – and Helen Plant, AHDB Senior Analyst (Cereals & Oilseeds), who will discuss grain market developments.

For further information on AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds activity, visit cereals.ahdb.org.uk

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| CropTec

Precision protection is Crop Angel’s delight..

A passion for precision farming or “farming precisely” was the inspiration for Chris Eglington and Matt Kealey to launch Crop Angel Limited. hris is a forward thinking arable farmer and Matt a qualified agronomist and commercial director within the agrochemical development industry.

The pair recognized a need for accurate aerial applications of crop protection products, micro-nutrients and seeds. They have secured exclusive supply positions with many of the multi-national R&D companies and will soon be launching their own range of bespoke,

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aerially approved products specifically developed for use with their fleet of approved agricultural UAV’s (drones).

Coupling data generated from aerial UAV maps or enhanced satellite images with their UAV sprayers and applicators, the Crop Angel vision is the essence of precision farming.

Reduced agrochemical usage, reduced operator exposure, reduced power and machinery costs, reduce impact on soil structure, the environmental benefits alone are considerable.

They have exclusive supply positions with many of the multi-national R&D companies Formed in April 2016, Crop Angel is the first company to introduce UAV sprayers in to the UK. They have since secured exclusive and semi-exclusive marketing positions with two of the leading global UAV manufacturers. Working closely with respected research organizations and government bodies they expect to be commercializing in the first quarter of 2017.

Griffith Elder celebrate 35 years of weighing grain into store It was in time for the harvest of 1981 that Griffith Elder introduced their first grain weigher to agricultural businesses in the UK. aunched at the Royal Show of that year, the ‘YieldPer-Field’ became an instant success, giving yield information directly off the combine harvester, and also showing the amount in store, after drying. It was an exciting time, and having done the development at Saucemeres Farm, Bishop’s Stortford, courtesy of Mr Andrew Collins, The Yield-Per-Field won a Silver Medal from the Royal Agricultural Society of England.

For the first time since the bulk handling of grain became commonplace in the 1960s, farmers were again able to know how much grain they had for sale, as well as getting good accurate management information about how their cultivation practices

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were performing.

The very next year the ‘Ton-Tel’ single axle weighbridge was launched as a low cost alternative to a full size weighbridge, which in those days cost a whopping £35,000. Prices started at £2,900 for the weigher that could weigh all traffic on and off the farm; less than 10% of the price of a full sized weighbridge.

Today the company has a wide range of weighing systems specifically for farm use, from weighbridges with grain storage software to muck spreader weighing and specialist software for biogas production. David Elder, Managing Director says “We concentrate on electronic weighing systems for arable farmers and we have our own inhouse software designers to keep the products up to date with the

latest thinking in storage and handling. In recent times portability has become important so that farms with outlying stores can drop a scale down, weigh in the grain, then move on to the next one.”

For more information go to www.griffith-elder.com or contact Peter King on 01284 719 619.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 17

| SALTEX

Contact your nearest dealer: Central Cropsprayers Limited Unit J Sandford Industrial Park Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 2AN 01948 840187 www.centralcropsprayers.co.uk

Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk

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Sprayer Spares Ltd Unit 2-3 Moorlands Trading Estate Moor Lane Metheringham Lincoln LN4 3HX 01526 323521 www.sprayerspares-ltd.co.uk

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| CropTec

Experts on hand to talk Sky Drills at Croptec Experts from OPICO will be on hand at the Croptec event to give advice on the innovative Sky drill range, particularly helpful for growers considering how to move forward with no-till, min-till, cover cropping or companion crops. he unique design of the drills offers great versatility, providing high capacity drilling solutions across a range of soil conditions and cultivation systems, allowing a wide window of crop establishment.

The MaxiDrill is designed to provide a high speed minimum tillage drilling solution with the flexibility to work in a conventional plough-based cultivation system, and also as a no-till drill in light soils. Moreover its clever design allows drilling to continue even when conditions turn sticky.

The EasyDrill is specifically

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designed as a direct drill but works equally well in minimum tillage conditions, on consolidated ploughed soil and when drilling into cover crops. This drill can be fitted with up to three separate hoppers to allow conventional drilling to take place alongside fertiliser application, cover crop drilling or slug pellet application.

An electric driven metering system allows easy calibration, accurate setting and variable rate as standard. The primary seed is drilled using the disc coulter and the secondary product (often fertiliser) is applied by dedicated coulters in front of the press wheels. If an additional ‘pro hopper’ is fitted for a third

microgranular product or small seed size, this is metered into either the seed or fertiliser distribution systems and drilled with one product or the other. The use of two separate air circuits to supply the seed and the fertiliser allows the products to be drilled at two different depths.

The clever row management system then allows manual selection of rows so that every other, or any number of rows, can be shut off to provide wider row spacing with one seed; or rows to be planted with alternating seed types.

With minimal soil disturbance, these features mean the drills can be used in the fight against grass

weeds, whilst providing accurate and consistent seed and fertiliser placement, targeting nutrition correctly and maximising crop efficiency.

Commenting James Woolway, OPICO Managing Director said, ‘With the Sky brand we have over 25 years of experience and farm trials in cover cropping and companion crops. Visitors to Croptec can join us on the OPICO stand where we can provide support and advice for growers considering a move to no-till or min-till, whilst looking at what machinery they will require to manage the change effectively.’

Schulte Industries brings Fixed Knife Technology to the UK Using Schulte Fixed Knife Technology, Stubble & Crop residue is driven into stationary knives, mounted in strategic positions under the deck of the cutter by free swinging blades set moving at speeds of up to 4,800 meters per minute.

Increasing the chopping & mulching action of a rotary cutter. ounted baffle distribution plates direct the mulched materials out of the cutter with an even spread.

The stationary fixed knives are

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protected by shear bolts which allow them to pivot when required.

The free swinging blades are each protected individually by slip clutches.

Chopped stubbles aid direct drilling and strip tillage seeding,

thanks to improved material flow through the drill and less opportunities for seed ‘hair pinning’, along with a shorter length of stubble.

Chopped & Mulched stubbles see quicker residue

decomposition and weathering.

Fixed Knives can quickly be removed to allow the rotary cutter to be used on grassland and for pasture management.

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| SALTEX

SALTEX is growing SALTEX 2016 is the must attend event for farmers, landowners, estate managers and associated agricultural professionals.

Major ahead of the curve Following the success of its Swift Roller Mower range, Major Equipment Ltd is delighted to announce the launch of the Major Contoura at Saltex 2016. he Major Contoura is a trailed tractor mounted mower designed primarily for golf and amenity turf applications and has a 3.6m cutting width. It has a unique pivoting frame which allows the three mowing decks to follow the ground contours with ease thanks to the self-aligning spherical bearings.

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ast year’s SALTEX (Sports, Amenities, Landscaping Trade Exhibition) was an unprecedented success with over 260 exhibitors and 8,714 unique visitors spanning 45 different nations. Building on that success, SALTEX 2016’s improved show features and unrivalled industry support are set to work together to create the most exciting agricultural event to date when the doors open at the NEC, Birmingham on November 2 and 3.

With three large halls containing many of the major players from across the industry, SALTEX 2016 is the ideal place to see products and services which could improve the daily operations of agricultural professionals and estate managers. The exhibition will see a plethora of exhibitors representing the likes of arboriculture, horticulture & forestry, landscaping materials, machinery, power and hand tools, utility vehicles and tractors, agricultural quads, land drainage, specialised wheels and tyres, and vacuums, brushcutters, edgers and wood chippers. Visitors can also expect to see new products being unveiled, new unique services and some exciting guest appearances on the exhibitor stands.

There will be a number of education opportunities at this year’s SALTEX through LEARNING LIVE – an all-encompassing free to attend education programme designed for all sectors of the industry. Last year saw 1,655 minutes of seminars and LEARNING LIVE 2016 is set to be expanded further with an even more exiting programme featuring a greater depth of content and quality.

In particular, Ian Forman from the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) will be stressing the importance of adhering to the

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Sustainable Use Directive, with particular reference to sprayer testing requirements and Rhoderic Taylor, consultant and fellow of the Arboricultural Association, will be delivering a presentation entitled ‘Trees - from selection to establishment’ in which he will be discussing what to look for when selecting trees based on the nature of the site. Rhoderic’s seminar will also focus on the value of keeping plant records for a variety of purposes including health and safety issues.

The ever popular ‘Amenity Forum Question Time’ will also be returning to SALTEX 2016.

Professor John Moverley OBE will be chairing the session, which will see a panel of experts drawn from across the sector responding to audience questions on a range of topics regarding pests and diseases. This year could prove especially interesting with Brexit in mind!

Based on SALTEX 2015 postshow feedback surveys, show organisers have made the decision to bring back outdoor working demonstrations, which will take place on a grass area directly outside the SALTEX halls 6, 7 and 8 and will provide visitors with an opportunity of seeing a number of products in action.

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.

The full programme of SALTEX events will be regularly updated via www.iogsaltex.com.

Visitor registration to SALTEX 2016 is free. To confirm your attendance visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX and Facebook – www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX

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As with all Major Roller Mowers, the Contoura has a gear driven drive line, which eliminates the problems associated with belt driven mowers

challenging terrains. The cutting height can easily be adjusted from 10 – 110mm making it ideal for fairway and rough turf maintenance and delivers a professional striped finish.

As with all Major Roller Mowers, the Contoura has a gear driven drive line, which eliminates the problems associated with belt driven mowers.

Other features include: a zeroturn ability, high blade tip speeds of 86m/s and the Major Tri-Cut blade system with protective undersole disc. For more information about the Major Contoura visit www.majorequipment .com or visit the Major stand K080 at Saltex, November 2nd and 3rd 2016.

The Major Contoura has full width rollers that follow undulations to give a consistent cut, in both hilly and less

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| SALTEX

New John Deere compacts to be launched at SALTEX John Deere is to launch its new 2R Series compact tractors to the UK and Irish markets at SALTEX 2016 in November. he company’s joint display with regional dealers Farol, Henton & Chattell and Tallis Amos Group (TAG) will feature, for the first time at a UK show, a 2036R compact model alongside a new XUV 590i Gator utility vehicle and new walk-behind rotary mowers.

The 26hp 2026R and 36hp 2036R compact tractors feature new ground-up designs and a host of innovative features. The 2026R is ideal for operating in more confined spaces, while the 2036R has a wider footprint and longer wheelbase, combined with increased tractor weight for better stability.

Both models are designed for comfort and reduced operator fatigue during long working days, with ergonomic controls, a tiltable steering wheel and cruise control. The 2036R also offers a premium air suspension seat and the industry exclusive CommandCut mower deck lift system. Both tractors are also available with a choice of open operator station or cab, offering good all-round visibility.

“Our customers are looking for efficient, durable and easy-to-use solutions that allow them to do more work in less time with less effort,” says Jared Lowe, John Deere’s product marketing manager for compact utility tractors.

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“When designing the new 2R Series models, we focused on improving machine stability, comfort and implement attachability to meet those needs.”

The 2R Series tractors improve productivity through several easy-to-use features. The allnew CommandCut system for the mid-mounted rotary mower deck on the 2036R provides quick and accurate cutting height adjustment with the turn of a dial and the nudge of a lever.

Both models also have Twin Touch foot controls, which simplify the selection of speed and direction of travel. An eThrottle feature allows the machine to automatically increase or decrease engine speed as required, while standard cruise control keeps ground speed consistent.

Fully independent ptos allow front, mid and rear-mounted implements to be attached at the same time and combined in different ways, to increase the equipment’s versatility.

AutoConnect mid-mounted mower decks are easy to attach and remove for higher productivity, while new QuikAttach 120R and 220R front loaders are designed specifically for the 2R Series, for maximum performance.

Additional benefits are provided by the new John Deere designed and manufactured front hitch options. The 2036R also features an

electric lock-out valve so that the operator can easily lock the hitch in the transport position with the flick of a switch from the tractor seat.

Intuitive maintenance features include extended fluid service intervals and improved access to the engine compartment. Standard service indicators alert the operator when maintenance is required, such as when the air filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.

In addition, the engine oil dipstick has been moved to a more convenient location, making it easier for operators to check oil levels.

Onboard diagnostics and Service Advisor connectivity also allow service technicians to quickly and easily monitor the health of the machines.

The new 2036R Series compact tractor will be shown at SALTEX alongside one of the latest models from John Deere’s ever growing range of Gator crossover 4x4 utility vehicles. These include the petrol engined XUV 590i and XUV 590i S4 four-passenger machines, and the midsize XUV 560. This model is aimed at those looking for a more affordable 4x4 UTV, but with the same levels of comfort and versatility expected of the popular and well-established Gator range.

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| Midlands Machinery

Newark Showground looks forward to third Midlands Machinery Show Organisers at Newark Showground are once again looking forward to the Midlands Machinery Show this November as they prepare to host a series of new product launches and technical seminars from hundreds of exhibitors. he two day show will take place on 23 and 24 November. Now in its third year the show is rapidly gaining a reputation for being an intimate event where visitors can see the latest technology launches in the agricultural industry.

Organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, the show prides itself on being a platform for small to medium-sized agricultural businesses to showcase their diverse range of machinery and innovation to those who work and have an interest in agriculture.

George Taylor, show manager, said: “After launching the show two years ago, we are pleased to now be entering our third year and showcasing some of the newest and best machinery for modern farming methods.

“The event is increasingly attracting thousands of visitors from across the country.

We’ve had a tremendous amount of positive feedback about the show and we pride ourselves on our ability to attract the big name brands in the agricultural industry while also maintaining that important sense of intimacy.”

As well as attracting around 300 exhibitors,

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the Midlands Machinery Show holds seminars on a number of topics ranging from renewable water and its use in farming, the impact of climate change on the industry and also free legal advice for businesses.

George added: “Due to last year’s popularity we will run another programme of technical seminars run by industry experts throughout the duration of the show. Visit our website to keep on top of all the opportunities at the show.”

Gavin Pell, the Managing Director of one of the shows regular exhibitors Chandlers Ltd said: “We were very pleased to see the excellent turn-out of the local farmers supporting the growing Midlands Machinery Show. The organisers created a good layout, at a sensible time of year, and it has been enthusiastically embraced by the farmers who want to be able to speak with the local dealers and manufacturers’ personnel - which is not possible at the larger national shows.

“We are really looking forward to exhibiting at the 3rd running of the show this autumn.”

Indoor and outdoor exhibition space is now available to book and organisers are encouraging exhibitors to secure their place

early to avoid disappointment.

Visitor entry and parking is free. Exhibitor space will remain available until the close of booking for the catalogue on 31 October 2016.

For more exhibitor information, to book space or find out more about sponsorship opportunities, please email info@midlandsmachineryshow.com or visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com For regular show updates please follow the show on Twitter @Midsmachinery16 or join the conversation at #MMS2016

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| Midlands Machinery

Innovative agri water pump to launch at Midlands Machinery Show New water technology is being launched at this year’s Midlands Machinery Show and will help farmers to create cost savings.

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RH Water Management, which specialises in rain water harvesting and water technology, is launching its zero energy water pumps in November at the Newark

Showground.

Michael Jorden, MD of JRH Water Management, said: “We are really excited to be launching the zero energy water pump at the Midlands Machinery Show. It works by purely using the pressure of the water going into it which builds up before it is then released and pumped.

“With sustaining water becoming more of a priority for the UK as water supplies dwindle, our products are ticking a lot of boxes outlined by the Environment Agency” “The pump has no moving parts which make it cost effective to run and ideal for farmers and businesses to use it. It is built on the old theory of RAM pumps in the 40s and 50s.

“These new pumps do not require fuel and create enormous energy saving costs for farmers and agriculture businesses as they are

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self-sustaining.”

JRH Water will be taking a stand at the show on 23 and 24 November for the third year running. It will also be launching its efficient and easy cleaning water filters alongside showing its vast range of existing products.

Michael added: “If you need water, we have the solution and expertise to help. The Midlands Machinery Show is one of the best events we attend all year round and it is great to speak to the different agricultural businesses and attendees that it attracts.

“We are still working with some of the companies that we met at the first Midlands Machinery Show three years ago.

“With sustaining water becoming more of a priority for the UK as water supplies dwindle, our products are ticking a lot of boxes outlined by the Environment Agency in terms of being self-sustaining by collecting rainwater and reusing it.”

JRH Water, which is based in Lincoln, has the complete solution for water needs – design, supply and install.

George Taylor, show manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome JRH Water back to the Midlands Machinery Show. We are sure visitors will be hugely interested in this innovative piece of machinery.

“I’m sure that by showcasing their products at the Showground they will meet plenty of key personalities throughout 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. Organisers are encouraging exhibitors to book their space which will remain available until the close of booking for the catalogue on 31 October 2016.

For more trade information and to book trade space please email info@midlandsmachineryshow.com or visit the website www.midlandsmachineryshow.com To find out more about sponsorship opportunities visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com/sponsorshi p-opportunities , meanwhile you can find further details on JRH Water Management by visiting www.jrhwatermanagement.co.uk For regular show updates please follow the show on Twitter @Midsmachinery16 or join the conversation at #MMS2016

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Sheep

NSA highlights threat potential Australian trade deal would pose to UK sheep sector The National Sheep Association (NSA) is encouraged to see activity already taking place to negotiate trade agreements for when the UK leaves the European Union – but is seriously alarmed that Australia, a global sheep meat exporter, is proposing a free trade deal. ustralia currently has a quota to export just under 20,000 tonnes of sheep meat to the EU, which it fulfils every year. With an annual production of more than 700,000 tonnes, the country is very keen to open up more trade opportunities and is seizing on Brexit as an opportunity to renegotiate its EU quota. They also have their eye on a separate UK deal, seeing this country as a prime destination for its lamb and mutton products.

Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “NSA understands Australia has been pushing to increase its EU quota for many years now, so there is no doubt it would send larger amounts of sheep meat to Europe and the UK given the opportunity. The UK sheep sector is already suffering unacceptably high levels of imports of New Zealand lamb, much of which is sourced by retailers at times of the year when UK product is in plentiful supply. We would be keen to see an outcome of Brexit being tighter controls on New Zealand lamb being allowed into this country, and we certainly need to avoid making the situation worse by allowing Australian product to head our way too.”

Recent figures from Meat and Livestock Australia show the country produced 516,366 tonnes of lamb and 196,040 tonnes of mutton in 2015/16, exporting 56% of total lamb production (worth $1.78 billion) and 91% of mutton production ($700 million). The main destinations were the Middle East, USA and China.

Mr Stocker continues: “The UK is currently an importer and exporter of lamb, which helps balance supply and demand through the year and exploits ideal sheep producing conditions in the UK. However, NSA believes more should be done to grow the UK domestic market and increase self-sufficiency in lamb production and

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consumption – especially as we do not know what access we will have to EU markets in the future. We currently export around 36% of UK lamb, with France and the rest of the EU taking the majority of this. A priority for our sector is negotiating a trade deal with the EU post-Brexit.

“A free trade deal with Australia or New Zealand may be beneficial for some UK industries but could have a catastrophic effect on UK sheep farmers and we cannot sit back and be sacrificed for the benefit of others.

Given the fundamental role our sheep sector has in maintaining the rural environment, landscape and community in the UK, we cannot afford to be overlooked in crucial trade negotiations. We encourage the UK Government to work hard on these deals, but not to rush into agreements without considering the wider consequences.”

NSA works to build trade relations ahead of inevitable renegotiations The National Sheep Association (NSA) is taking an active role in furthering existing trade relationships outside the European Union, as plans continue for the UK to leave the common market.

Supporting the AHDB Export team, NSA played a major role at a reception in Berne on Tuesday (13th September) for companies and organisations involved in buying and supplying lamb. Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, spoke at the event hosted by David Moran, the British Ambassador to Switzerland and Lithuania. Mr Stocker presented an overview of UK sheep farming with a focus on its many sustainability credentials.

Despite not being part of the EU, Switzerland enjoys a trade relationship with member states by way of bilateral agreements. The UK has not needed to hold a Swiss export certificate for red meat under its EU membership, although this will clearly change post-Brexit.

Mr Stocker says: “Switzerland is one of the most developed countries in the world, ranked first in terms of nominal wealth per adult. This affluence means product quality is key and consumers have a good grasp on social and environmental issues. Switzerland is a net importer of lamb and its values and interests align well with the UK’s high welfare standards and sustainable approach to sheep farming.

“The trip recently provided an excellent opportunity to engage with Swiss buyers and suppliers of lamb in the presence of the British Ambassador and representatives of the British Department of International Trade. The guests accounted for the vast majority of the Swiss lamb trade and it was a unique opportunity to talk about the many benefits of UK sheep farming and how it is closely linked to landscape, environment, wildlife and rural communities.

“This type of work, ahead of major trade renegotiations as a result of Brexit, is essential and demonstrates the importance of activity by our Government departments and levy bodies. I am delighted NSA can support this work, which in turn creates business opportunities for UK processors and sheep farmers. Actions to safeguard and further develop existing markets, while encouraging new opportunities for additional outlets, is more important now than ever as we begin to consider our opportunities as a sector outside the EU.” Peter Hardwick, AHDB Head of Exports, adds: “Exports, both inside the EU and across the wider world, are vital to the stability and viability of the sheep industry in this country, with more than a third of production being exported. The whole industry will work alongside Government to safeguard our current trade flows as well as exploiting further opportunities for growth.”

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| Sheep

FUW enjoys busy International Sheep Dog Trials The Farmers’ Union of Wales has enjoyed three busy and successful days at the International Sheep Dog Trials, held at Sandilands farm, Tywyn. he Union was represented by the Meirionnydd branch and they were delighted to welcome members and all those participating in the Sheep Dog Trials to the stand.

The FUW was an official sponsor of the event and of course also provided the Wales team with their official jackets.

International Trial President Geraint Owen, who hosted the International Sheep Dog Trials, said: “It was a privilege and honour to be asked to be the International President for this year's International Sheep Dog Trials.

“I was very proud to be involved with a small dedicated local committee and was amazed at the work and organisation needed to hold such a large event. The standard of competition over the three days was exceptionally high and I warmly congratulate the Welsh team on their success.”

Geraint Owen of Sandilands farm, Tywyn is also the Chairman of the local FUW Tywyn branch and has had close connections with the FUW over many years.

Sandilands is a Beef and Sheep farm with around 2000 breeding ewes and 200 breeding limousines and limousine cross suckler cows.

The Owen family have farmed at Sandilands since 1938 when Geraint’s grandparents took over the farm. Geraint is the third generation to farm here in partnership with his father Bryn and brother Hugh. They also have a very successful caravan park business where his sisters Sian and Bethan are active partners.

THE WELSH SHEEP - "DAI" LEMMA I'm a sheep - sittin’ in a field I don't ‘ave a lot to yield I’ve been a bit deaf - can’t hear words fully Think my hearing’s a little woolly

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I was feelin’ good but I now feel baaaaaaaah-d All thanks to the farmer’s lad!

He came a-visiting brought some shears Said "I'm gonna trim your ears" Now it feels like Winter even though it's May As he took my overcoat away!

Hope my embarrassment quickly ceases As It's hard to cover my bits and pieces!!!

Geraint and and his wife Annest married in 1992 and have two daughters, Lowri and Catrin who play an important and active part in the business on both the farming and tourism side.

Annest, Catrin and Lowri also run the bar and restaurant at the Woodlands/Bronffynnon site which is approximately 3 miles from Sandilands.

FUW Meirionnydd County Executive Officer Huw Jones said: “The fields where the trials were held were in a truly fascinating location, with outstanding views over the Dysynni valley, and perfect for an event such as this.

“I would like to thank all of the Union staff and officials who have been at hand over the three days to help in manning the stand and of course their kind assistance in setting up.

“Last but not least, I would like to congratulate the Wales team on their excellent achievements, the competition was truly intense and a wonderful display of how well dog and handlers work together.”

Analysis of data from groundbreaking project begins Early results from the RamCompare project are already very positive says co-ordinator Bridget Lloyd.

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he industry scheme aims to drive genetic improvement forward through the inclusion of commercial data in genetic evaluation and data analysis on the first crop of lambs is

underway.

Lamb growth has been closely monitored throughout the season on the six project farms, with the collection of birth, eight-week, 90-day and sale weights. Over 10,000 weight records have been taken from lambs born this year and they are being entered into the Signet Breeding Services database.

Bridget Lloyd, RamCompare project coordinator, said: “Early analysis has shown a pleasing amount of variation, with some sires excelling and progeny growing quickly.”

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More than 3,600 lambs were born in 2016, sired by 39 different rams registered for the project. The eight sires that were used via artificial insemination (AI) averaged 30 lambs each. The number of lambs from each natural service ram ranged from 47 to 154. The aim was 50 lambs per sire and this was achieved in all but one group.

Top 25 lists will be produced for rams on test for eight-week weight, scan weight, muscle depth and fat depth estimated breeding values (EBVs). New EBVs will be developed for days to slaughter and carcase value. The list of rams, irrespective of breed, will be published in November 2017.

Twenty-four rams have been selected for natural mating and performance testing in 2017. Bridget said: “It is a busy time as we

A sheep unzipped without a coat Can be mistaken for a goat Been on computer - checking RAM But couldn’t find sheep coats - only SPAM Hoped that I could find a coatie Search engine turned up “small beard.......“goatie”” Prices were extortionate - fakes you see But I"m too clever - they wont “fleece” me!

I'm freezing cold and I look a sight When you're stripped butt naked - it is a fright I’m finding it hard to get to sleep So I count humans instead of sheep I wouldn't look like this if I could choose Plus it scares away the ewes So I won't be able to be a humper Til I grow back my woolly jumper!

Until that day I guess I’ll shiver My knees will knock and my “nutmegs” quiver Things could have been much worse of course If he had uttered “More mint sauce?”!

If I’ve made you feel sad-ish, …. downish…. or weep-ish Please forgive me – I’m just feeling………..... SHEEP-ISH! Copyright © 2014 Lesley Scott.

All Rights Reserved.

enter the second year of the programme. The six project farms have been provided with four new rams to join natural service groups. The groups include some of last year’s rams to strengthen the linkage between years. All the newly selected rams have EBVs in the top 20 per cent for their breed and will provide variety to other rams on test.”

Semen from an additional five sires is being used via AI to increase links between the project farms. In total, the project will have tested 68 rams over its two-year duration.

More information on the RamCompare project can be found at signetfbc.co.uk/ramcompare

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Machinery

Kubota UK to hold second annual skills contest Kubota UK will be holding its second annual skills competition in October 2016, a two-day event that seeks to put the technical competence of its staff and technicians working at dealerships across the manufactures extensive network to the test. n a different format to last year’s event, this year will see the competition expanded to include not only Kubota UK staff, but also service engineers who conduct maintenance on Kubota machinery at dealerships throughout the country.

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Each contestant will be required to conduct a 100 question written assessment followed by an intense 90-minute practical challenge, with competitors tasked with diagnosing and fixing five faults on the Kubota L5740HST-II tractor.

Each will be judged on their ability to remedy all five faults, as well as being able to demonstrate the method behind their decision

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making process.

A total of 16 competitors will be taking part over the two-day contest, with contestants equally split between Kubota UK and Kubota dealerships. The Kubota UK winner will go on to compete at the annual global Technical Skills Contest in Japan in 2017, competing against other Kubota sales territories from around the world for the coveted ‘Gold Award’ accolade.

The Kubota dealer contestant winner will accompany Kubota UK to Japan to witness its participation in the Technical Skills Contest and enjoy an escorted sightseeing tour of the country.

Keith Miller, Service & Training Manager, commented: “The Kubota UK Skills Contest brings together some of Kubota’s best service engineers, internally and through our dealer network. Our UK staff and dealer network is made up of highly skilled, highly professional individuals and we think it’s important to celebrate that and test the expertise of those working with Kubota machinery,

day in, day out.

“The two-day event will be tough, but it will also be fun and engaging, and something our technicians and dealers will be excited to be involved in to compete against the best of the best.”

“The Kubota UK Skills Contest brings together some of Kubota’s best service engineers, internally and through our dealer network”

For more information on Kubota UK and its service solutions for the groundcare, agriculture and construction sectors visit www.kubota-eu.com.

Alternatively, follow Kubota UK on Twitter (@KubotaUK) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/KubotaUK).

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

Advanced automation for new LEXION 600 Over the 20 years since the LEXION combine range was first introduced, it has led the way in the development and use of advanced technology to help users consistently maintain high outputs and optimum cost efficiency. s part of the ongoing development of the LEXION 600 straw-walker combine range, 2017 models will benefit not only from new cost-efficient engines, a new straw chopper and other advanced features previously only available on the higher capacity LEXION 700 HYBRID range.

As before, the LEXION 600 range comprises of three 6-walker models (LEXION 670/660/650) with a drum width of 1700mm and two 5-walker models (LEXION

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630/620) with a 1420mm-wide drum. MONTANA hillside versions of the LEXION 670 and 630 are also available and in addition to the TERRA TRAC LEXION 670TT, a new tracked version of the LEXION 660 has also been added to the range.

Instead of the Caterpillar engines previously used, all 2017 LEXION 600 range models are now powered by Mercedes-Benz T4F compliant engines. On the largest LEXION 670 and 660, the engines have a cubic capacity of 10.7 litres with power outputs of 435hp and 408hp respectively.

LEXION 650/630/620 models come with 7.7 litre engines with power outputs of 354, 354 and 313hp respectively.

To provide adequate cooling for the new 10.7 litre engines on the LEXION 670/660, these now feature the unique CLAAS DYNAMIC COOLING system originally developed for the LEXION 700 range.

DYNAMIC COOLING incorporates a variable fan drive that automatically adjusts the cooling capacity as required by the engine, which helps save up to 20hp and so reduce fuel consumption. Located horizontally behind the engine, the radiator draws in clean air from above the combine through a 1.6m wide rotating sieve filter. The air is then directed downwards through the radiator and engine bay, before exiting through louvers that direct the air down the side of the combine, creating a curtain of air that prevents dust rising. As a result, the engine bay is kept far cleaner and maintenance time is reduced.

Automated control CLAAS leads the way in the development of automated systems for combines, which has helped LEXION 700 operators achieve higher outputs from their combine and some of which is

now optionally available on the LEXION 600.

Combine output is often restricted by an operator’s natural fear of pushing the combine too hard, resulting in a timeconsuming blockage. To avoid this, the CLAAS AUTO CROP FLOW CONTROL developed for the LEXION 700 range last year is now available on all LEXION 600 models. Using sensors monitoring engine speed, the APS drum, the impellor drum and the straw chopper, the CROP FLOW CONTROL system automatically reacts and alerts the operator to a potential blockage, so they can confidently push the combine to its maximum capacity.

Another new feature is AUTO SLOPE control, which guarantees the cleanest possible sample and minimal losses on uneven terrain.

AUTO SLOPE automatically controls the fan speed and continually adjusts this relative to the angle of the combine. When working uphill, the fan speed will be automatically reduced to avoid losses and then increased again as it goes downhill to ensure grain is cleaned sufficiently.

Featuring added improvements to residue management and more, details of the LEXION 600 range can be found on the Claas website.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Fencing

Farmstar Limited Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786

Market Weighton,York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

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

Ravenhill Ltd Hereford, Herefordshire T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk

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| Machinery

New 5R Series tractors designed for comfort, compactness and capability John Deere is launching a new series of compact agricultural tractors designed to meet the requirements of small and medium sized arable, dairy and livestock farms. uilding on the strengths of the previous 5R models, John Deere’s new 5R Series tractors have been designed to provide enhanced levels of comfort, compactness and performance.

With an optimised wheelbase of 2.25m, the new 5R family combines a one-piece curved frame design with a low centre of gravity to facilitate front loader installation on-the-go, while still maintaining the best possible manoeuvrability at a turning radius of only 3.75m, even when fitted with a front loader.

The new 90hp 5090R, 100hp 5100R, 115hp 5115R and 125hp 5125R models are equipped with fuel efficient, Stage IIIB/iT4 compliant 4.5-litre John Deere PWX engines. These diesel-only four-cylinder engines deliver 10 extra hp for transport applications via their Transport Power Management (TPM) system.

Customers can choose between three transmission options. These include the entry level 16/16 CommandQuad Manual transmission, which features four ranges and four powershiftable gears within each range, the 16/16 CommandQuad and the 32/16 Command8, with eight powershiftable gears and an ECO mode that enables a top speed of 40kph at only 1759 engine rpm.

While all these transmissions offer a fully automatic clutch, individual start-up gears, individually settable speeds and an electric park lock, the premium

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level 32/16 Command8 also features an automatic shifting function as standard. The latter feature is also optionally available on the 16/16 CommandQuad transmission.

With a shipping weight of 4.3 tonnes, the new 5R Series tractors can lift as much as 4.7 or optionally 5.3 tonnes. The opencentre hydraulic system is equipped with a standard 96litre/min pump and is also available with a pressure and flow compensated (PFC) 117-litre/min version. Whether they are mechanically or electronically controlled, four SCVs provide fast loading cycles.

For improved operator comfort especially in rough terrain, John Deere’s new 5R Series tractors are available with front axle suspension, featuring independent arms and infinite adjustment of +/45mm that allows complete shutoff when required.

An optional maintenance-free mechanical cab suspension system is also available, which uses two adjustable shock absorbers to ultimately support the air suspended Grammer seat. This seat is normally standard equipment on 6R Series tractors, and features five to 15 degrees of swivel, lumbar adjustment and an optional heating system.

The newly designed 5R Series tractor cab offers a tiltable steering column, PDU+ cornerpost display, panoramic front windshield and an ergonomic control panel. For front loader operation, John Deere offers a choice of mechanical or new E joysticks, both linked to the

tractor seat.

In addition, the new 543R front loader offers automatic mast and implement latch, 10 per cent more lift capacity, higher breakout force and an increased roll-back angle.

Depending on the task, both the 543R and 603R loaders are equipped with a choice of levelling

options.

Designed for use in narrow row crops, other specialist crops and vineyards, the new 5RN Series tractors feature a minimum width of 1.7m, a narrow cab and mechanical front wheel drive.

Contact your local dealer AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY Ripon Farm Services (Keighley) West Yorkshire Telephone 01535 632661, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ripon) North Yorkshire Telephone 01765 692255, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Stockton) County Durham Telephone 01740 630254, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Tadcaster) North Yorkshire Telephone 01937 835454, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Darrington) Pontefract Telephone 01977 795241, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ottringham) Hull Telephone 01964 622351, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Red Tractor

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| Machinery

The New Holland NHDrive concept autonomous tractor shows a vision into the future of agriculture Unveiled recently at the Farm Progress Show in the United States, the New Holland NHDrive concept autonomous tractor is a driverless machine which can perform a wide range of farming tasks day and night. It is also able to reach the field autonomously via private on-farm tracks, to work together with other autonomous or traditional operator controlled machines and courtesy of the cab it can still be driven by an operator ensuring maximum flexibility. t first glance, the T8 Blue Power tractor on display may have looked like a normal standard tractor to the numerous visitors who packed New Holland's stand at the Farm Progress Show, the annual outdoor farming machinery show that is held in Boone, Iowa (USA).

But once the first images of the video dedicated to the tractor and its incredible operational capacities appeared on the screen, everyone understood that they were witnessing a glimpse into the future of farming, one that could feature fully autonomous machinery: something which could redefine the agriculture of tomorrow.

A further evolution based on efficiency and sustainability Developed by CNH Industrial in collaboration with its long-standing technology provider Autonomous Solutions Incorporated, ASI, a Utah-based company that is the industry leader in off-road autonomous solutions, the New Holland NHDrive autonomous tractor is an unmanned vehicle that is fully autonomous and can be monitored and controlled via a

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desktop computer or via a portable tablet interface. This enables farmers to access tractor and implement data, wherever they are, from different locations, whilst checking fields from the comfort of their pick-up, whilst tending livestock or whilst at home, and always whenever they need. This facilitates right-time decision making to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, farmers will maintain full control and ownership of their data.

A path-plotting screen shows the tractor’s progress, another shows its live camera feed, providing the user with up to four real time views (two front and two rear). A further screen enables monitoring and modification of key machine and implement parameters such as engine speed, fuel levels and implement settings, including seeding rate or coulter downforce. The route to the field can also be planned, should this involve private roads or tracks.

The NHDrive concept tractor is equipped with a seeder, and is able to autonomously seed the next crop straight behind the combine. Using an application installed on a portable device,

perfect for supervised automation, such as an operator driving a combine, or on a desktop computer, perfect for the farmer working in his farm office, the tractor and implement parameters can be continually monitored and controlled, and changes can be made if necessary.

Able to work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the NHDrive tractor helps to reduce the risks associated with human error as it follows predetermined and

optimised plans for all activities. It is able to reach higher levels of productivity and efficiency than traditional methods. The NHDrive can make full use of the periods of favourable weather for farming operations by working day and night.

In the future, the NHDrive tractor will be able to completely automate grain handling during the harvest when equipped with a trailer, including unloading, transport and offloading activities.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 31

| UK Dairy Day

The sun shone on Shropshire for a record breaking UK Dairy Day UK Dairy Day 2016 has hit astonishing new heights. More than 7,740 visitors descended on the International Centre in Telford on Wednesday 14th September - this is an 8.847% increase on last year’s 7,112 visitors. Coupled with 171 cattle on-site and more than 300 dairy businesses exhibiting, this was the largest UK dairy Day to date – and everyone was talking about it with #ukdairyday even trending on Twitter well before lunchtime! he Cattle Show was a major attraction with crowds of people piling around the main ring to catch a glimpse of the action. The show saw immaculate cattle from all breeds, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Dairy Shorthorn, Jersey and Holstein on parade with live streaming continuously taking place on the UK Dairy Day website throughout the day. The full list of results can now be viewed online: http://www.ukdairyday.co.uk/2016show-results

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“UK Dairy Day 2016 has been sensational; I thank everyone - visitors, exhibitors, sponsors, competitors, staff and helpers together we have made an incredible event for the dairy sector” Visitors also watched a visual depiction of the cows’ anatomy using paint by Scarsdale

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Vets, joined Tim Carter and David Rowe for live foot trimming and knife sharpening demonstrations - and networked amongst the diverse array of trade stands. ADF Milking picked up the award for best large stand on the day and Dairymaster claimed the small/ medium stand prize.

In the sharing knowledge zone farmers, students and industry associates engaged in stimulating seminars provoking discussion and debate. Seminar topics were wide ranging – from the cost for BVD, the right flooring for cow comfort through to agritech opportunities and calf gut health. The display of the 12 most innovative products launched in the last 12 months caught visitors’ attention. Dairymaster claimed most innovative with their MooMonitor+App, closely followed by INUI LED for the LED UFO-S Series High Bay Light.

The judges also made a special mention to AHDB Dairy and their Inbreeding Checker.

Sue Cope, Event Director, commented on the shows’ success; “UK Dairy Day 2016 has been sensational; I thank everyone - visitors, exhibitors, sponsors, competitors, staff and

helpers - together we have made an incredible event for the dairy sector. The UK dairy industry is a global leader and this was clearly displayed at UK Dairy Day with the wealth of technology, equipment, ideas and innovations that were on display – as well as the high standard of cattle.

Visitor numbers were up, cattle entries were up and so too were spirits as people networked, chatted and did business.”

Sue adds; “UK Dairy Day has received positive growth every year and attracts dairy businesses and farmers from all over the UK – as well as having a strong international following. Holstein UK and the UK Dairy Day team have worked extremely hard to develop this fantastic event for the dairy industry – and we’re committed to delivering this stand alone event in Shropshire – one of the leading dairy producing counties in the UK. Thank you to everyone who supported us this year; make sure Wednesday 13th September 2017 is already free in your diary and we hope to welcome you all back next year.”

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| UK Dairy Day

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October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Buildings

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| Grain

Weetabix marks 2016 harvest & highlights its Wheat Protocol Weetabix Food Company has released a range of limited edition ‘first harvest’ packs to mark the first of its yellow box cereals to contain crop from Harvest 2016. Weetabix’s exclusive range of first harvest packs represent the very best of British wheat farming in 2016, with all wheat for its classic Yellow Box cereal sourced from within 50 miles of its Burton Latimer factory in Northamptonshire. espite not reaching the record levels set last year, given the low sunlight levels in June, early samples suggest a relatively solid year for wheat quality, with an estimated 14.8 million tonnes to be harvested this season. And consumers can expect their Weetabix to offer the same high quality as their used to, with natural protein levels in the wheat crop found to be at their highest levels for a decade[1].

Committed to sourcing all wheat for its Yellow Box cereal from local farmers, Weetabix is proud to deliver a great tasting, nutritious and British breakfast every time.

Weetabix’s dedication is bound by its Wheat Protocol, which goes beyond the requirements of the Red Tractor Assurance Scheme and Entry Level Environmental Stewardship scheme to further reduce food miles and fertilizer usage.

Hitesh Bhatia, Strategic Sourcing Manager at Weetabix said: “Our ultimate goal is to supply British consumers with the highest quality and most sustainable product that can be sourced in the UK. Every single one of the 365 grains found in a Weetabix biscuit is packed with essential protein and wholegrain goodness. Not only that, it’s bound by the fantastic relationship

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we have with our wheat merchants and our local farmers, who we continue to work closely with to improve conditions within the wheat growing industry every year.”

Now in its sixth year, Weetabix’s industry leading protocol, which goes beyond the requirements of the Red Tractor Assurance Scheme and Entry Level Environmental Stewardship scheme to further reduce food miles and fertilizer usage. The protocol covers a series of commitments to guarantee the quality of the wholegrain wheat and to ensure the protection of the local environment.

Gleadell spokesperson, Dan Sedgewick, said: “A lower planted area and a return to trend yields will see UK production fall nearly 2mln tonnes compared to last year, but the quality of the wheat that has been cut so far is good.

The big talking point for the UK market has been the result of the EU referendum and its impact on UK grain prices and the sharp fall in the value of sterling following the vote. This has been combined with disappointing production in mainland Europe, which has put £15/mt on UK grain prices since the lows of mid-June.”

Farmer Robert Barnes, whose farm in Bedfordshire supplies wheat through Gleadell to Weetabix, said: “We’ve been growing wheat for Weetabix for the

last decade and it’s fantastic to think that our product will once again be served at kitchen tables all over the country on a daily basis. As stipulated by Weetabix’s protocol, we endeavour to produce wheat to the highest quality, while meeting our own very strict standards for sustainability, and despite disappointing weather conditions in June, we have managed to produce another batch of the finest quality grain.”

Weetabix’s promise to use quality British wheat is supported by the brand’s commitment to provide a healthy and nutritious

breakfast cereal that doesn’t compromise on taste. With today’s shoppers looking for healthier cereals, Weetabix has continued to focus upon its wholesome ingredients, sourced from local farmers who can guarantee the best quality. The efforts are paying off, with Weetabix becoming more & more popular, while crucially helping to protect the livelihoods of British farmers.

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Grain

BDC’s grain handling and cleaning technology sets the standard at new Buscall Grain Handling Facility Skandia conveying and elevator systems together with a Denis Reciprocating Screen grain pre-cleaner / separator supplied by BDC Systems are playing a vital role in the new E Buscall & Partners grain storage and drying facility at Low Farm in Carbrooke, Norfolk. o manage increased grain intake as efficiently as possible, Manager Philip Fincham needed to replace and modernise the family farm's existing storage and drying arrangements. The site's existing Continuous Flow Grain Drier was relocated inside a new purpose built facility, serviced by a new intake pit and completed with new conveying and a pre-cleaning plant.

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“We know that equipment supplied by BDC Systems is of the highest quality” Marrison Agriculture had for many years provided the customer with all its fixed equipment and for this modernisation project wanted to ensure that once again the most suitable solution was selected. With this in mind, project manager David Rix turned to trusted supplier BDC Systems. “We know that equipment supplied by BDC Systems is of the highest quality, assembles easily on site and generally performs over and above its stated

36 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

capacity. Their range is vast and always supported by superb service.”

The new fully galvanised, below ground, grain intake hopper facilitates fast and easy unloading. This serves a new 80tph Skandia heavy duty I-Line KTIG 30/40 Trench Intake Conveyor which in turn feeds into a Skandia heavy duty I-Line SEI 50/18 80tph belt and bucket elevator. From here route selection choices allow pre-cleaning, drying, fine cleaning or grain into store, as required.

A further SEI 50/18 Elevator and a range of Curved, Horizontal and Inclined Skandia I-Line 80tph conveyors transport the grain to store. ”Skandia is a world leader in Grain Handling technology and its semi-industrial specification is ideal for larger farm projects of this type,” says David Rix. In addition a Denis NSD 2 50tph Reciprocating Sieve cleaner was installed to meet the requirement for versatile fast precleaning and precision screen cleaning for any combinable crop produced at Low Farm.

More information is available at www.bdcsystems.com or call 01672 810851 or email: info@bdcsystems.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

Sukup Europe Ltd will be introducing their latest Chain Loop Conveyor systems to the UK With the Sukup Europe Chain loop Conveyor, you can fill, unload, blend and transfer grain in one complete system. he systems are available in 3 sizes and with capacities from 108 – 270 tonnes/hour. Silos can be loaded and emptied with the same high capacity equipment and when used in conjunction with

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in-line silo systems they only require 1 or 2 motors to power the whole system.

This is not a new idea and this type of system has been successfully used for many years explains Sukup Europe’s Sales Manager John Statt. “By adding the Chain Loop to the already

comprehensive range of conveying equipment that we offer to our UK customers, it gives them another conveying option to choose from and could prove to be a very efficient and cost effective way of conveying grain in certain silo systems.

As with all of the equipment that

we develop and market for our specific UK and European conditions, it will be fully galvanised and will meet all current UK and European codes and regulations.”

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Fencing

The future of fencing galvanized at Osterley Park South East Galvanizers, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing, was commissioned to process approximately 24 tonnes of steel used by The Traditional Company to create brand new Traditional Estate fencing, gates and posts spanning over 1,200m at the Georgian Osterley Park estate on behalf of The National Trust. he estate’s previous fencing, some of which was over 100 years old, had to be removed by The Traditional Company before being replaced with its Highland range of Traditional Parkland Fence, as specifically chosen by Osterley Park. Bespoke ironwork gates and end posts were also made to complement the new surroundings, and all steel used was subsequently galvanized by South East Galvanizers, and coated with Galvacoat® in black – of which Wedge Group Galvanizing is the only supplier in the UK. David House, Director of The Traditional Company, explained: “As an official supplier of The National Trust, we know that they focus on quality and longevity and that they were looking for a total replacement at Osterley Park.

They specified galvanizing and we called upon the team at South East Galvanizers, and the wider Wedge Group, to supply us with

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black Galvacoat® to remain congruent with the previous aesthetics of the estate.”

Neil Pearson, Commercial Manager at South East Galvanizers, explained: “Thanks to The Traditional Company for calling on us to support them with another grand project for The National Trust. Its fencing and architectural ironwork products are of a very high quality and are used at many large estates, new builds, and local authority sites. It is imperative that the estate fencing isn’t damaged by corrosion and rust from weathering, and lasts as long as possible without the need for regular maintenance visits.

“Galvacoat® is specifically designed to adhere to galvanized steel and is typically used by our customers for structures that are hard to access, large in surface area, and open to all weather conditions. Taking into account its overall lifetime cost, the finished products are significantly more cost-effective than alternative finishes, which need to be reapplied more frequently. Galvacoat

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produces a professional, clean finish and we’re thrilled with the finished result.”

Wedge Group Galvanizing is the largest hot-dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150

years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, the firm offers a truly national galvanizing service. For further information please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 630311 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Fencing

Strip Grazing, Winter AGRIPOST – Peeled & Grazing, Movable Sheep Pointed or Machine Rounded Fencing?

When looking for a low cost traditional natural fencing solution, M&M Timber has the answer with a range of machine or peeled posts and strainers.

Need to keep your livestock contained temporarily...? he largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK, we have the most extensive and comprehensive range of Hotline Electric Fencing products to cover all of your electric fencing needs.

From three reel systems to solar powered electric poultry netting systems and many different energisers for different systems and applications.

Available Now! We have an amazing autumn deal on our Premium Three Reel System which covers 500m... RRP £547.62…. It’s now £380.86! Our Three Reel System Autumn Offer is available from 1st October –31st December 2016!

What do you get in this kit?

• 3 x 3:1 Geared Reels

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• 3 x 500m 9 strand polywire • 5 x 10 pack posts • 2 x End system post with insulators • 1 x Reel fixing post • 3 x Reel fixing bracket • 1 x 2 pack hart clip double line connector You will require a source of power and an appropriate energiser to power this system: mains, battery or perhaps a nifty solar powered energiser? You may need some extra plastic posts if your ground is undulating or exposed to the elements. It’s also worth investing in a fence tester.

If you are not sure what you need - contact us - we love talking electric fencing!

Visit www.electricfencing.co.uk, e:info@electricfencing.co.uk or call 01620 860058.

he popular AgriPost range offers a standard, low cost, quality option for traditional fencing whether it be within a garden, field or for boundary marking.

Timber is sourced from sustainable forests in Sennybridge and Lockerie with timbers processed at the M&M Timber manufacturing site in Worcestershire. The AgriPost range is pressure treated with wood preservative Tanalith E offering a greater level of protection and longer life for timbers.

In addition to AgriPost M&M Timber offer a highly acclaimed Agricised range of posts and strainers. The range features a scientifically designed incising

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process for increased protection – a virtual ‘zone of confidence’ – at the critical area where the post is at most risk of decay. The Agricised incisions allow deeper penetration of the wood preservative to provide more effective and consistent protection.

For landowners looking for perimeter fencing for solar farm installations, M&M timber have recently launched SolarGuard – a natural looking secure fencing solution. The 4 way pointed posted provide stability and the bulky specification helps deter thefts. Treated with Tanalith E wood preservative SolarGuard posts come with a 15 or 30 year service life warranty.

For further information visit www.mmtimber.co.uk

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Forestry

Modified wood product aims to save hardwood forests from the axe A hardwood substitute has been developed to effectively end the need to log native forests. esearchers from the Flinders Centre for NanoScale Science & Technology (CNST) in South Australia have collaborated with Australian company 3RT Holdings Pty Ltd to develop a method for converting cheap pulpwood into a highly sustainable tropical hardwood substitute.

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According to the World Wildlife Fund about 46-58 thousand square miles of forest are lost each year 3Wood contains the same properties as tropical hardwood but maintains a stronger dimensional stability and eliminates wastage.

3RT managing director Peter Torreele said the availability of the new “smartwood” made it easier to

reduce the carbon footprint of the manufacturing industry.

“There are a lot of materials with a very high carbon footprint, whereas wood has a very low carbon footprint,” he said.

“Almost 40 per cent of all logs in the world are being cut into chips for the pulp and paper industry.

“This 3Wood makes the harvesting of native forests, unnecessary. We are aiming to replace all applications where today hardwood would be used if it were available – furniture, floors, frames and there are other possibilities – it is endless.”

3Wood is made from a complete log – includes wastewood – and does not bleed out or stain nearby floors or walls.

It is developed using ordinary pulpwood – which is cheap and accessible – and then a unique water-based adhesive that reacts with the fibres in the wood to make it stronger.

This process is known as

lignocellulose manufacturing technology, which works to compress softwood to create a new product that is denser, harder and more durable than the original.

The wood is then exposed to a combination of temperature and pressure to form it into a rectangular shaped 3wood block with dimensions of 120cm x 13cm x 5cm.

Torreele said 3RT were in discussions with various companies around the world to commercialise the product.

According to the World Wildlife Fund about 46-58 thousand square miles of forest are lost each year.

CNST Director and codeveloper David Lewis said 3Wood helped eliminate wastage and was a more environmentally friendly alternative to other products.

“We can manufacture blocks of wood out of pulpwood with the same strength as a 100-year-old tree but without the problems,” he said.

“There is a lot of wastage in

current hardwood production. If you take a big tree only a small percentage of that becomes hardwood, the rest is chipped and burned.

“We use a glue to stick it (the wood-waste) together and reconstitute it, get it into one block and do it in an environmentally friendly system. Our adhesive is formaldehyde free.”

He said by changing its form it was easier to manipulate the wood and shape into different products without the downsides of normal hardwood.

Tertiary college TAFE SA has designed a table from the new product to help give the research team a better understanding of the properties and demonstrate its effectiveness.

South Australia’s capital Adelaide has three long-standing public universities, Flinders University, University of South Australia, and the University of Adelaide, each of which are consistently rated highly in the international higher education rankings.

Call for special offers

40 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

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| Machinery

Spaldings Limited Lincoln, Lincolnshire T: 01522 507500 www.spaldings.co.uk

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

Lakedale Power Tools Croydon, Dartford & London T: 020 8683 0550 www.lakedalepowertools.co.uk

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

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

Mawsley Machinery Brixworth, Northampton T: 01604 880621 https://mawsley.stihl-dealer.co.uk

DM Chainsaws Arundel, West Sussex T: 01243 554065 www.dmchainsaws.co.uk

Davenport Western Yeovil, Somerset T: 01935 425311 www.davenportsaws.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Slurry

Liquid manure volume reduced by half Efficient Slurry and Digestate Processing with „Kumac“ from WELTEC. erman biogas specialist WELTEC BIOPOWER now offers a proven solution for the processing of slurry and digestate for livestock owners and biogas plant operators. The fully automated processing system „Kumac“ reduces the liquid manure and digestate volume by 50 percent. In a four-stage procedure, clear water, liquid fertiliser concentrate and valuable solid matter are extracted from the source material.

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WELTEC BIOPOWER‘s processing concept is equally suitable for users from different areas, such as pig and cattle owners and biogas plant operators Regions characterised by agriculture are faced with a high accumulation of slurry and digestate, while the areas suitable for spreading the nutrients are

limited. In the future, restrictive laws will impose even stricter regulations for handling the nutrient surplus. Against this background, operators are finding it more and more costly to store and dispose of liquid manure and digestate. WELTEC BIOPOWER‘s Kumac processing system represents a sustainable, economic solution for reducing the quantity, thereby improving the transportability and volume of the nutrient surplus.

The functional principle is based on several tried and tested subprocesses, which, in combination with custom developments, are highly effective within the framework of an overall process.

To separate the solid and liquid matter in the first step, flocculants are added to the liquid manure and digestate. In this way, certain nutrients are fixed, and it becomes easier to separate the solid matter from the liquid phase with the belt filter press. Moreover, the additives alleviate the odour emissions. The drained solid matter has a dry matter content of about 30 percent and can be used as fertiliser, compost or litter or, in the case of

42 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

slurry, as biogas feedstock.

Subsequently, the remaining liquid phase is passed through a flotation tank in order to separate further small particles and suspended matter. Any remaining solid particles are removed by a fine filter. In the next step, the filtrate traverses a three-stage reverse osmosis process in order to concentrate salts and nutrients.

The resulting liquid fertiliser is rich in nitrogen and merely accounts for one quarter of the original

volume. The major portion of the treatment products consists of clear water (50 percent), which can be introduced to the water cycle after being processed in the ion exchanger.

The scalable modular system can be used from an amount of 50,000 t of slurry or digestate a year. If the processing needs increase, a combination of several Kumac lines can easily be implemented. However, Kumac processing also excels with its

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| Slurry high level of automation, reducing the need for manpower to a minimum. Efficient use of the final products – half of which consist of drainage water, a quarter of useful solid matter and a quarter of valuable nutrient concentrate – increases the overall efficiency of the Kumac treatment system.

The resulting liquid fertiliser is rich in nitrogen and merely accounts for one quarter of the original volume Kumac has already been successfully used at agricultural plants and large biogas plants in Belgium and the Netherlands for almost ten years. Apart from the high degree of treatment, operators are pleased with the reliable, low-maintenance technology and the low energy consumption. “Another reason for the positive feedback is that meanwhile, we have further developed the procedure in accordance with operator requirements“, explains Jens Albartus, Director of WELTEC. The system‘s good reputation is backed by the investigation results of two renowned institutions: Both the Dutch Wageningen University and the German Chamber of Agriculture of Lower Saxony

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confirm the high functionality and excellent mass balance of the Kumac treatment system.

Thus, WELTEC BIOPOWER‘s processing concept is equally suitable for users from different areas, such as pig and cattle owners and biogas plant operators.

Benefits at a glance: - Tried and tested, mature technology - Improved transportability and lower distribution costs through nutrient concentration - Compliance with restrictive fertiliser and emission regulations at reasonable cost - Substantial reduction of the storage volume for slurry and digestate - Half of the input turns into clear, dischargeable water - Solid phase can be used as fertiliser, litter, biogas substrate and compost - Suitable for liquid manure and digestate - Scalable thanks to modular structure - Fully automated operation.

For further information, visit WELTEC BIOPOWER at the Energy Decentral / EuroTier (15 to 18 November 2016, Hall 25, Stand D 11).

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Security

Investigations underway into Craven quad bike and Land Rover thefts as police issue urgent security warning Police have issued an urgent warning to residents in rural areas of Craven to take extra security precautions for their quad bikes and Land Rovers. here have been a series of thefts of both these types of vehicle in recent weeks.

Investigations are ongoing into the incidents, with Rural Taskforce and local officers carrying out security visits, patrols and extra checks. However, officers are also urging quad bike and Land Rover owners to do their bit, by reviewing their security arrangements as soon as possible.

Recent incidents of vehicle thefts in Craven include: • On Sunday 21 August a Land Rover was stolen from Farnhill.

• On Sunday 28 August, a man was interrupted while trying to steal a quad bike from a farm in Sutton in Craven. The suspect was seen sitting on the bike before he ran off.

• Sometime after Sunday 28 August, a quad bike was stolen from the side of the house in Stainforth, even though it was blocked in by a tractor.

• On Thursday 1 September, a quad bike was stolen from a barn in Langcliffe.

• On Saturday 3 September, a quad bike was stolen from a garage in Lower Bentham. The quad bike was attached to a trailer, which was not stolen.

• Overnight on Sunday 4 – Monday 5 September, a Land Rover was stolen from a barn in Giggleswick. Entry was gained to the barn through the roof.

PCSO Sally Breen, from North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce, said: “North Yorkshire is a very safe place, but unfortunately we know

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that criminals travel into our county targeting isolated areas. Highprofile operations and ongoing work by the Rural Taskforce is helping make Craven a no-go area for cross-border criminals – but we need residents’ assistance to make it even safer.

“I am urging anyone who owns a Land Rover or a quad bike – and particularly if they live in a rural area – to take extra steps to ensure their vehicles are left safe and secure.

It’s much better to spend a bit of time and money now on better security than to go through the inconvenience and upset of having your vehicle stolen.

“Members of the public act as our eyes and ears in rural areas, and so if you are aware of any suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will take action.”

Owners of quad bikes and Land Rovers are being asked to follow this crime prevention advice: • Always leave your vehicle locked and alarmed if possible • Consider fitting an after-market approved immobiliser • Park in a locked garage or other secure area if you have one, or in a well-lit open space if not • Never leave the vehicle’s keys in the ignition, in the same outbuilding as the vehicle, or near your front door inside your home • Be vigilant when using your vehicle for anyone taking an interest in it • Consider fitting a transponderbased security marking system and tracker device • Have the vehicle’s windows etched with the vehicle

44 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

identification number Suspect suspicious activity?

Contact North Yorks Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

The future for on-farm AD The number of anaerobic digestion plants on UK farms quadrupled between 2012 and 2016, with over 200 facilities now delivering around 250MWe-eq of baseload power, heat and green gas. That should be no surprise: AD is much more than an ‘add on’ to an agricultural business, it integrates with almost any farming model to make better use of wastes, support the use of break and cover crops and reduce input costs as well as the farm’s carbon footprint. he industry’s growth, though, has been primarily supported by renewable financial incentives, notably the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). As with other sources of renewable energy, the funding available to new projects has reduced over time, risking the scale and speed of future growth.

While the development of new electricity-generating AD is particularly challenging at present, the new RHI budget offers some prospect of support for new biomethane and biogas heat projects.

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Should the government now look to create drivers around carbon and farming, rather than electricity, heat and gas?

The question for the industry, though, is how we move beyond

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reliance on renewable energy support alone. Reducing emissions across the economy remains a huge challenge, and farming has a vital role to play in reducing the risks and managing the impact of climate change. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) says technologies like AD on farms are essential to meet our carbon budgets, recognising their role in driving down agricultural emissions – so should the government now look to create drivers around carbon and farming, rather than electricity, heat and gas? As our relationship with Europe changes, what impact will changes to farming regulation and support have?

Those are among the questions that the AD industry is starting to address. The Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA) is leading the industry in finding new opportunities to support AD, both through changes in policy and through work on research and development. The UK is in the process of building an

academic, manufacturing and operating base which will have huge opportunities to offer not only to farmers here, but also to export markets around the world.

Those questions and opportunities will be major issues for debate at the ADBA National Conference (8 December 2016), the industry’s annual policy and political forum. Alongside speeches from policy makers and opinion formers such as the CCC, the energy networks, academic researchers and regulators, a key session will discuss the future for on-farm and on-site AD, with contributions from current operators and future developers.

Farmers and the AD industry need to work closely together to ensure the technology can help meet the challenges agriculture faces today and tomorrow. We also need to engage customers: where technologies like AD are used to reduce carbon footprints, businesses like supermarkets and food suppliers benefit from marketing lower carbon products –

are there opportunities for them to support new development? Can we better show the efforts that the farming sector is making to reduce its environmental impact, and meet consumer demand for lowcarbon products? As debates around future support for farming and AD continue, these are just some of the questions we need to answer.

Visit adbioresources.org for more information.

ADBA National Conference 2016 (8 Dec, London) will be discussing the issues and opportunities relevant to onfarm AD. adbioresources.org/adbanational-conference-2016

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Machinery

46 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

AgBag customer wins Best On-Farm AD Plant award We want to congratulate Nigel Bloom on winning the best on-farm AD plant award. igel, of Springvale Farm, a digester based in Nottingham, is a customer of ours and has been AgBagging for 4 years. They AgBag and store the maize in the field where it is grown and only collect it when required by the digester. Storing in AgBags rather than in clamps increases the biogas yield per tonne.

By storing the maize where it is grown it minimises traffic disruption and mud on the roads and results in road movements for maize being reduced by a third compared to other plants.

In addition currently, beet is only harvested when required between September and May, but this year Nigel is planning to experiment with AgBagging beet for all year round supply.

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Well proven in the UK, Europe and the USA for over 30 years, the AgBag system has numerous storage applications. The crop or feedstock is stored within an oxygen free environment within 7 minutes of bagging; thereby conserving valuable nutrient content and ensuring dry matter losses are kept to a minimum.

By storing the maize where it is grown it minimises traffic disruption & mud on the roads and results in road movements for maize being reduced by a third compared to other plants.

The AgBag system allows waste-free storage at no capital cost, with fast pay back for the increase in feed-out quality.

Lanes: Supporting the energy industry Drainage engineers from Lanes Group are proving they have the power to support one of the UK's fastest growing industrial sectors - renewable energy. he company's vacuumation and water jetting technology is proving to be suited for cleaning pipes and tanks in a range of different renewable energy plants in the industrial & farming sectors.

Lanes drainage expertise has been used to support companies developing and running sustainable energy plants in Plymouth, Newcastle, Glasgow, Sheffield and North Wales.

The Plymouth depot provides industry pipe cleaning services for MVV Environment Devonport Ltd, which operates one of the most advanced energy-from-waste plants in the UK. The combined heat and power plant, at North Yard, Devonport, burns 254,000 tonnes of residual household, commercial and industrial waste a year.

Lanes' electro-mechanical pipe cleaning equipment has proved ideal for cleaning inert filtration media that builds up in pipework

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during the incineration process.

The Plymouth depot is also regularly commissioned by industrial cleaning specialists New Wave Marine to use its jetting and vacuumation technology to clean pipes and tanks at a growing number of AD plants.

The company's CCTV drainage survey camera systems are also used to inspect pipework in energy plants to confirm cleaning has been thorough and the equipment is in good repair.

Lanes Plymouth Depot Area Development Manager Grant Cooper said: "The capabilities of our technology transfer very well from the water industry to renewable energy.

"Also, our growing number of energy clients value the experience we already have of working in a regulated industry, and the very high priority we place on occupational health and safety."

Contact Lanes Group: www.lanesfordrains.co.uk

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 47

| ATV

Polaris

gains Fife’s Trust

Between the Firth of Tay and The Firth of Forth lies what is still commonly known within Scotland as the Kingdom of Fife.

ustom has it the area was one of the major Pictish kingdoms, known as Fib, after the departure of the Romans. Today’s Fife is a Local

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Authority and lieutenancy area with the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust looking after over forty sites, including the Fife Coastal Path and beaches, Local Nature Reserves (LNR’s) and the Lomond Hills Regional Park.

48 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

Managing the various terrains, from large water areas to ancient woodlands, calls for a maintenance team to regularly access some challenging coast and countryside environments, many of which are not reachable in 4 x 4 pick-ups.

The Trust invested in a Polaris Ranger, supplied by authorised Polaris dealers Ness Plant of Kinross, and found it the ideal solution for their needs.

The Midsize side by side utility vehicle is living up to its reputation

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“

| ATV

”

The Ranger has been ‘personalised’ in white with the Trust’s name and has a number of Polaris Lock and Ride accessories including a cab, doors and windows to keep out the elements and provide extra comfort for the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s team

of ‘hardest working’ with exceptional cargo capacity and towing ability, together with On Demand True All-Wheel Drive ensuring it can tackle the toughest tracks. Independent Rear Suspension, long suspension travel and high ground clearance ensure a smoother ride for the driver and passenger.

The Fife Coastal Path alone stretches for 117 miles of walking experiences “The Polaris Ranger is in constant work,” says Ian Laing, the

Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s Park Manager, “it’s used by as many as six different drivers on a daily basis for everything from routine emptying of bins to carrying the gear for felling trees. It’s been totally reliable and handles terrain no ordinary 4 x 4 can get to. I don’t know how we lived without it.”

The Ranger has been ‘personalised’ in white with the Trust’s name and has a number of Polaris Lock and Ride accessories including a cab, doors and windows to keep out the elements and provide extra comfort for the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s team, in what can be the most challenging conditions.

The Fife Coastal Path alone stretches for 117 miles of walking experiences, from the easy to the wild and demanding, while the LNRs comprise woodlands, wetlands, meadows and coastal sand dunes.

The Lomond Hills, Fife’s most

prominent landmark, are at the centre of twenty five square miles of moorland, lochs and farmland. The Polaris Ranger takes it all in its stride.

More info from Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polarisbritain.com

www.stalhameng.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 49

| ATV

A genuine

Honda ATV for younger farm riders...

Honda’s best-selling range of ATVs doesn’t just include models for adults. haring appearance, features and build quality with larger utility versions, the Sportrax TRX90X is designed for younger riders, from 12 upwards, allowing them to safely enjoy off-road riding just as much as older ATV users on the farm.

Power is from an 86cc, 4-stroke petrol engine with 12-volt electric key start. It has plenty of grunt, which means it easily handles uneven ground without needing high engine revs, making it easy to control. A 4-speed manual gearbox means there is always a suitable gear to suit the rider’s experience and the terrain, and automatic gear change and drive clutches make operation easy.

With no belts to slip, the mechanical transmission makes effective engine braking available when riding downhill, and reliability is second to none.

The Sportrax 90 is comfortable and stable off road, with similar suspension to larger models in the range. The seat is large and well padded, and fully enclosed foot

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rests provide extra protection.

Large flotation tyres operate at similar low pressures to larger models allowing travel over sensitive ground with barely any marking, and maintain stability while providing adequate ground clearance.

Controls are typically Honda;

50 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

well laid out with everything easily within reach. The brake levers can be operated by smaller hands, and sealed drum brakes front and rear remain effective even after sustained use in dusty harvest fields or winter mud. Added safety, especially for younger or novice riders, is provided by a thumb throttle with an adjustable limiter, allowing supervisors to set maximum throttle travel and restrict the power available.

Most children brought up on farms love helping with daily tasks, and the Sportrax 90 allows youngsters to ride alongside adults on their larger ATVs gaining experience and joining in activities when safe opportunities allow.

With an appearance similar to fullsize machines and sharing many controls, riders develop their skills and gain experience for when they are old enough to transfer to more powerful Fourtrax and Foreman utility models.

Just like the larger machines, free of charge operator training is

included with every new Sportrax 90 through the European ATV Safety Initiative (EASI) scheme, providing a safe introduction to machine riding, daily checks and recommended safety clothing.

And, being a genuine Honda, all new Sportrax 90s bought through UK main dealers benefit from the range’s full two-year warranty, for added reassurance. The brand is known for its high resale values resulting from constant high demand for used machines and the smallest model in the range is no exception, with low depreciation reducing cost of ownership.

If you are looking for a Christmas gift which will provide endless enjoyment and allow youngsters to become more involved on the farm, the rugged and reliable Sportrax 90 is hard to beat. Your local main Honda dealer will be delighted to explain all the features and benefits and arrange a demonstration.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Take a closer look at the

Kawasaki MULE range

The 2017 model year MULE SX has been given PRO series inspired updates for the new season. ffered in two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, the MULE SX machines pack a considerable punch in terms of carrying and towing capacity while enjoying diminutive dimensions that mean they can be transported in the back of many flat-bed vehicles and full-size pick-up trucks.

Just 1335mm wide and with an overall length of 2710mm, these sturdy work partners enjoy a 181kg cargo capacity in their tipping load beds while a generous 500kg towing capacity is available.

The 2017 model year machines have large volume bodywork inspired by the successful PRO series MULE Utility Vehicles, a new LED headlamp design and operator features such as a PRO style dashboard design and steering wheel configuration which now also includes a handy tilt function.

For operator and passenger alike, the convenience of cup holders and a glove box plus a standard fit DC socket are complemented by capacious under-seat storage and a massive 60 litre front storage area that is easy to access.

Proving easy to control yet torquey thrust, the dependable, air-cooled 410cc four-stroke OHV

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power plant is tried, trusted and respected in the Utility Vehicle community being both compact and lightweight. Fed by cool air supplied via a snorkel intake routed through the overhead protection frame for strong performance and maximum air filter life.

Both MULE SX variants offer minimum ground impact and disturbance via load spreading tyres and lockable rear differentials.

Chassis-wise a simple and effective ladder type frame combines rigidity and ride comfort allied to new front and rear suspension settings increasing stability and off-road bump absorption. The increased preload of the front suspension results in an improved front/rear balance while softer rear settings deliver increased ride comfort.

The MULE SX 2WD is £6049 + VAT and the 4×4 version is £6749 + VAT. Launched in 2016, the brandnew Kawasaki MULE PRO-DXT and PRO-DX are designed primarily for work applications, their high-torque powerful 993 cm3 four-stroke diesel engines deliver excellent performance and allow on-site fuel compatibility. They produce 18kW (24PS) of power and 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.

Hydraulic disc brakes are now fitted as standard to the front and rear and double wishbone suspension enable the wheels to drive over obstacles with minimum effect on the chassis.

The Trans Cab system of the PRO-DXT enables the flexibility to maximise either cargo space or people-moving potential. It can be changed from two-person mode to four-person mode in just one minute and by one person. In twoperson mode, the cargo bed capacity is 453kg and in fourperson mode is 158kg.

With a greater focus on cargo carrying performance, the PRO-DX features a long, flat cargo bed – the largest in the MULE fleet in fact – which is easy to load from three sides, making it the workhorse of choice for customers who need to

haul material. It has a dry weight of under 816kg which enables access to most weight-restricted areas.

The new MULE PRO represents the culmination of over 25 years’ experience in the side x side market in the UK. New from the ground up and designed with our customers in mind, it incorporates many features such as independent all-round suspension, selectable four-wheel drive, disc brakes together with unparalleled comfort for the driver and passengers.

The PRO-DX has an RRP of £11,129 + VAT and the PRO-DXT is £12,329 + VAT. There’s a whole host of accessories to go with both the SX and PRO MULE models to customise them, including: windscreens, heaters, cabs and winches.

For more information, or to view the whole utility range from Kawasaki, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk For more information

Contact your nearest dealer

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

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

Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk

Kings Worthy Garden Machinery Ltd Winchester, Hampshire SO23 0LF 01962 870 254 www.kgmltd.co.uk

The Tractor Shop Louth: LN11 0WA Skegness: PE24 5AA 01507 600051 www.thetractorshop.org.uk

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

NICHOLSONS Stalham Eng Co Ltd Stalham, Norfolk NR12 9QG 01692 580513 www.stalhameng.co.uk

October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Motors

Passat Alltrack victorious at Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards Volkswagen is celebrating a number of class wins, and overall victory, in the annual Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards. The 4MOTION-equipped all-wheel drive Passat Alltrack has been named Towcar of the Year 2017 while the Passat and its smaller sibling, the 4MOTION-equipped Golf Alltrack, have taken three class wins between them. n the respected awards, once again presented at the Royal Automobile Club in London, the Passat Alltrack won the £32,000 to £35,000 category and also scooped the honours in the hotly contested All-Wheel Drive Under 1800 kg group. The Passat Alltrack then went on to take the biggest prize of all: Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2017.

Meanwhile the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack triumphed in the £29,000 to £32,000 category.

The driving dynamics and ergonomic efficiency of both Alltrack models were thoroughly tested by the judges, who praised the Passat as being “one of the classiest mid-range cars by a mile… it simply oozes competence." They added: “It pulls away strongly and exhibits excellent flexibility throughout the mid-range."

The Passat Alltrack was singled out as the best of the best thanks to its combination of advanced technology and attractive affordability. The car features permanent all-wheel drive with a

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Haldex coupling, which means the drive is sent to the rear wheels as soon as it is needed. Meanwhile, the default is front-wheel drive which contributes to an impressive fuel consumption figure of 57.6 mpg* on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 130 g/km*.

The Passat Alltrack, priced from £31,215 (RRP OTR), differs from the standard Passat Estate in a variety of ways. Perhaps the most obvious is the ground clearance which is increased by 27.5 mm to 174 mm. It also features additional underbody and wheel arch protection, and has exclusive front and rear bumper designs. Matt chrome door mirror housings and anodised silver roof rails work with the 18-inch ‘Kalamata’ alloy wheels to complete the Passat Alltrack’s rugged looks.

Versatility is another reason why the Passat Alltrack is Towcar of the Year 2017. The car is available with a 150 PS 2.0-litre diesel engine with a six-speed manual gearbox or a 190 PS 2.0-litre diesel unit with a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox. The configuration that won the Towcar of the Year award was the 150 PS option, while both engines have a

braked towing capacity of 2200 kg and an unbraked capacity of 750 kg.

A host of other technological features add to the driving experience offered by the Passat Alltrack. As an example, the EDL (Electronic Differential Lock) system reacts to a wheel slipping by directing the drive power to the wheel on the opposite side within fractions of a second. Furthermore, XDSPlus brakes the wheels on the inside of a bend during fast cornering and thus perfects the steering response and improves traction.

The driver can also select ‘Offroad’ mode, which adds Hill Descent Assist to give more progressive accelerator control.

A particularly pertinent option for caravanners of all grades on the Passat Alltrack is Trailer Assist.

This ingenious system helps to control the reverse guidance of the car and trailer, thus making manoeuvring considerably more

Dual clutch for Dacia or the very first time, the multiaward-winning Dacia Duster is available with an automatic sixspeed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission, whilst still maintaining its shocking affordability. The Duster EDC is the most affordable automatic

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52 | Farming Monthly | October 2016

straightforward. A visual display in the infotainment screen shows the steering angle and how alternative steering inputs would affect the route of the car and trailer.

This is the third time in eight years that Volkswagen has taken top spot at the Towcar of the Year Awards. The four titles won yesterday add to a host of other notable victories for Volkswagen this year. These include the Best Supermini title for the Volkswagen Polo at the Auto Express Awards; and Best MPV (Touran), and Best Electric Car (Passat GTE) titles at the annual What Car? Awards.

Meanwhile the up! city car was named Best New Car Under £10,000 at the Telegraph Cars Awards.

For more details on the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack and Golf Alltrack, together with brochures and full pricing, and to use Volkswagen’s online configurator, please visit www.volkswagen.co.uk

crossover available in the UK. Combining the comfort and smoothness of an automatic gearbox with fuel economy and low CO2 emissions that are similar to those of a manual gearbox, the EDC transmission is certain to attract even more customers to the rugged SUV.

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| Motors

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| Motors

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| Motors

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October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Motors

Bentley Bentayga diesel: Effortless driving with peerless luxury Bentley Motors today announces full details of the first diesel model in the iconic British brand’s history – the Bentayga Diesel. t the heart of the world's fastest and most powerful luxury diesel SUV is an all-new, technologically advanced, triple-charged, 4.0-litre, 32valve V8 engine. Developing 435 PS (429 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb. ft.) of torque, the Bentayga Diesel hits a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph) and can accelerate from 0100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds).

Bentley’s Crewe-based engineers have developed a V8 powertrain to deliver an authentic Bentley driving experience. Peak torque is available from very early in the rev range (just 1,000 rpm), which makes progress in the Bentayga Diesel truly effortless.

New clean technology gives the Bentayga Diesel the lowest CO2 emissions of any Bentley, as well as a range of over 1,000 km (621 miles) – allowing owners to, for example, drive from London to Verbier, Bordeaux or the Scottish Highlands on a single tank.

Inside, the Bentayga Diesel retains the innovative features, advanced technologies and handcrafted luxury for which the Bentley Bentayga is renowned.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Bentayga Diesel represents a moment of immense significance in Bentley’s history, by giving the world its fastest luxury diesel SUV. Immense power, grand touring capabilities and superb refinement – this is a true Bentley. Only Bentley could produce a car so powerful, yet so refined.”

Clean, Powerful Performance - V8 Engine Offers Sublime Capability The Bentayga Diesel retains the dynamic performance of the Bentayga W12, while

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introducing clean technologies and enhanced range.

The next-generation 4.0-litre V8 engine, mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, develops a class-leading 435 PS (429 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb. ft.) of torque.

Variable-geometry, sequential twin-scroll turbochargers are powered by the exhaust gases, while a third electric supercharger – powered by Bentley’s innovative 48V system – spools up within 30 microseconds to eliminate turbo lag. The effect is effortless, seamless power delivery across the entire engine-speed range – the quintessential Bentley driving experience.

This enables the Bentayga Diesel to deliver a 0-100 km/h time of 4.8 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds) and a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph).

An immense amount of torque is available from very low speeds, with peak torque achieved from just 1,000 rpm, for both seamless on-road performance and exemplary off-roading ability. The immediate flow of power complements the traditional, class-leading refinement and performance customers have come to expect.

The new model has also been made with a number of specific developments to provide peerless refinement. For example, the bespoke exhaust system has been acoustically engineered to be as quiet and refined as possible.

The addition of Selective Catalytic Reduction contributes to lower nitrous oxides. Combined with Bentley’s stop-start system; class-leading CO2 emissions of 210 g/km; and an impressive range of over 1,000 km between fuel stops, this technology puts the Bentayga Diesel at the forefront of advanced engine efficiency.

Effortless Bentley Performance, Unrestrained by Climate or Terrain The development programme for the Bentayga has been the most exhaustive in the Bentley brand’s history, ranging across five continents. From the dirt and gravel of South Africa and the dunes of Dubai, to the muddy fields of Cheshire, and from -30°C in the frozen North Cape to searing 50°C desert heat, the Bentayga’s ability to perform on any surface and even in the most extreme conditions has been proven.

Innovative Features and Advanced Technologies A suite of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and infotainment features designed to enhance safety, comfort and convenience make the Bentayga Diesel an innovative, advanced and connected luxury SUV. It offers the widest range of on- and off-road drive settings of any vehicle via Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Mode and optional Responsive OffRoad Settings. Up to eight modes are available, allowing drivers, at the simple turn of a dial, to select the perfect dynamic set-up for any surface or road condition. This versatility is complemented by Bentley Dynamic Ride (electrically activated 48V active roll control) and Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS).

Responsive Off-Road Settings allows the customer to select the appropriate vehicle settings for a wide range of off-road surfaces, while the Driver Information Panel displays information on pitch, roll, wheel articulation, steering angle, compass bearing and altitude.

Customer deliveries will begin in Europe early next year, with entry into Russia, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan planned across the rest of 2017.

To explore the Bentayga in more detail, visit www.bentleyconfigurator.com

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| Motors

All-new Jeep Compass Generation EQ - mobility makes worldwide debut revisited in Brazil

With "Generation EQ", Mercedes-Benz shows how electric cars can soon move into the fast lane: the concept vehicle, with the appearance of a sporty SUV coupé, gives a preview of a new generation of vehicles with batteryelectric drives.

In celebration of the start of production at FCA’s Jeep Assembly Plant in Goiana, Pernambuco, the Jeep brand introduced the allnew Jeep Compass recently in Brazil. truly global allnew compact SUV, the Jeep Compass will be produced with 17 fuelefficient powertrain options for consumers in more than 100 countries around the world.

The all-new Jeep Compass expands the brand’s global reach with an unmatched combination of attributes that includes legendary and best-in-class 4x4 off-road capability, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, premium and authentic Jeep design, superior

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on-road driving dynamics, openair freedom, and a host of safety and advanced technology offerings.

The most capable compact SUV ever, the all-new Jeep Compass will be available in North America in the first quarter of 2017 and in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region, starting the second half of 2017.

Additional images and information will be available at the vehicle’s North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

Major facelift for Suzuki S-Cross he dynamic exterior design with its new electro-look underlines the focus on the powerful electric drive system: two electric motors, with a system output that can be increased to up to 300 kW thanks to scalable battery components, and permanent all-wheel drive deliver the guarantee of dynamic highlevel performance.

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The S-Cross first went on sale in October 2013 as Suzuki’s first ‘C’ segment crossover model and now, three years later, the major facelifted model is introduced with more distinctive and upright front end styling. Ground clearance is now slightly higher at 180mm versus 165mm and new design headlamps help provide both higher efficiency and a sharper look. At the rear, newly designed LED rear combination lamps are used to provide a cleaner and more contemporary style. he distinctive new interior design utilises an updated soft-touch dashboard pad, framing highlights for the centre panel and newly designed seat fabric for SZ4 and SZ-T models. S-Cross offers ample room for five occupants with their luggage and the double sliding

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panoramic glass sunroof fitted as standard on the SZ5 model has one of the largest opening areas in its category (560mm).

The highly acclaimed Boosterjet engines first utilised in the Vitara S and Baleno models are also now available to demonstrate Suzuki once again as a true expert in the field of fun to drive crossover and four wheel drive cars.

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"Generation EQ" is the forerunner of Mercedes-Benz's new product brand for electric mobility, EQ. The name EQ stands for "Electric Intelligence" and is derived from the Mercedes-Benz brand values of "Emotion and Intelligence" With a range of up to 500 kilometres and the typical Mercedes strengths of safety,

comfort, functionality and connectivity, "Generation EQ" meets every demand in terms of contemporary, sustainable mobility. Also on the inside, the vehicle offers innovative solutions, including a completely new interior concept.

Celebrating its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show, "Generation EQ" is the forerunner of Mercedes-Benz's new product brand for electric mobility, EQ. The name EQ stands for "Electric Intelligence" and is derived from the Mercedes-Benz brand values of "Emotion and Intelligence".

"The mobility of the future at Mercedes-Benz will stand on four pillars: Connected, Autonomous, Shared und Electric. 'Generation EQ' is the logical fusion of all four pillars," says Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "The emission-free automobile is the future. And our new EQ brand goes far beyond electric vehicles.

EQ stands for a comprehensive electric ecosystem of services, technologies and innovations."

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| Motors

Nissan Navara Enguard concept Nissan has unveiled an all-new vehicle at the 2016 Hannover Motor Show.

The Nissan Navara EnGuard Concept is a durable and tough all-terrain pickup, designed to operate as a life-saving rescue platform in some of the world’s most harsh and extreme environments. ased on a Double Cab Tekna version of the Nissan Navara – the current holder of the International Pick-up Award – the Navara EnGuard Concept features many bespoke design elements and performance upgrades. It is also packed with vital equipment suitable for emergency and disaster recovery work, including an advanced drone to provide vital intelligence about what dangers rescue crews might face.

It also marks the world debut of a prototype portable battery pack, designed and developed

by Nissan. It utilises the brand’s tried and tested EV battery technology, already available on the road in the 100 per cent electric Nissan LEAF and e-NV200. With more than 250,000 Nissan EVs sold worldwide, the company is at forefront of this fast-developing sector and ideally placed to apply its expertise to explore new vehicle sectors and consumer opportunities in the future.

When docked in place the battery packs are constantly in ‘charge’ mode, using power generated by the vehicle’s 2.3-litre 190PS twin-

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turbo diesel engine to ensure they’re ready for emergency use when required. Each is a 2kW unit and utilises seven Nissan EV battery modules inside a weather-proof machined aluminium housing.

Two input (charge) sockets and five output (discharge) sockets are integrated into each battery pack, which features recessed ends to allow it to be carried easily. In a rescue environment they could be used to operate specialist cutting or heavy-lifting equipment, and have been specifically designed to provide an efficient alternative to a petrol generator.

With zero emissions and no flammable fuel, portable battery packs can also be used in enclosed spaces such as a building or a cave.

Additional power sockets are integrated into each side of the pick-up’s load bed.

As part of its Intelligent Mobility vision, Nissan is working to explore how its pioneering EV battery technology can be integrated further into society. These prototype battery packs provide a real-world example of how it could be applied to new sectors, to provide cleaner, more sustainable power solutions.

Philippe Guerin-Boutaud, Corporate Vice

President, Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan, commented: “The Nissan Navara is a tough and smart pick-up which our customers rely on to go anywhere and do anything in their daily lives. The Nissan Navara EnGuard Concept is an extension of that principle, showcasing how our award-winning pick-up is perfectly suited to tackle the toughest terrain and save lives.”

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| Motors

Get behind the wheel of the Discovery Sport and discover our most versatile compact SUV to date. Intelligent technology including class-leading Terrain Response makes it perfect for the great outdoors. With a generous loadspace of up to 1,698 litres and the clever option of 5+2 seating, call us to book a test drive and experience the great indoors.

Stratstone Land Rover Cardiff 02920 713100, www.stratstone.cardiff.landrover.co.uk

Stratstone Land Rover Cheltenham 01452 715700, www.stratstone.cheltenham.landrover.co.uk

Stratstone Land Rover Stockton 01642 644444, www.stratstone.stockton.landrover.co.uk

Stratstone Land Rover Nottingham 0115 957 8000, www.stratstone.nottingham.landrover.co.uk

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Discovery Sport range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 5.6-6.4 (50.4 - 44.1); Extra Urban 4.5 - 4.7 (62.8 - 61.4); Combined 4.9 - 5.3(57.7 - 53.3). CO2 Emissions 139-129 g/km.

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| Motors

Guy Salmon Knutsford

Kentdale Kendal

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

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

Barretts Ashford

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

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

01205 449758, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Canterbury

Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen

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

01673 799393, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Rybrook Huddersfield Land Rover

Conwy Land Rover

01484 516016, www.rybrook.huddersfield.landrover.co.uk

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

Rybrook Copley Land Rover

Stafford Land Rover

01422 363340, www.rybrook.halifax.landrover.co.uk

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

Hunters Norwich

Yeovil Land Rover

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

01935 426600, www.yeovil.landrover.co.uk

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

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| Motors

New Discovery makes debut on giant Lego Tower Bridge Land Rover has revealed the New Discovery seven-seat SUV by breaking a Guinness World Record for the largest LEGO structure ever built. ong-term Land Rover Discovery owners Bear Grylls, Sir Ben Ainslie and Zara Phillips took part in the dynamic live reveal of Land Rover’s most versatile model around a 13-metre high LEGO version of London’s Tower Bridge.

The New Discovery embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure. It is highly desirable with unrivalled capability and technology like no other.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover’s Chief Design Officer, said: “New Discovery redefines the large SUV. Land Rover’s design and engineering teams have revolutionised the Discovery DNA to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV.” Everyday ingenuity has been at the heart of the Discovery for the last 27 years, with more than 1.2 million customers to date. The new Discovery is for the digital age. Ingenious technology keeps your family safe, connected and confident on all surfaces, all terrains and in all weathers to ensure your destination is reached.

The fifth-generation model benefits from Land Rover’s strong, safe and light full-size SUV architecture, delivering comfort and adaptability like no other.

The reveal set was made from 5,805,846 individual LEGO bricks, breaking the previous Guinness World Record by 470,646 pieces.

Laid end to end, the bricks would stretch for almost 200 miles, or from Tower Bridge in London to Paris.

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Led by the UK’s only LEGO Certified Professional, Duncan Titmarsh, it took five months for expert LEGO Master Builders in the UK to construct the incredible Tower Bridge structure. It was erected in the grounds of Packington Hall, Warwickshire, UK – close to Land Rover’s Solihull plant, where New Discovery will be produced.

As part of the dramatic reveal sequence, British adventurer Bear Grylls appeared in typically exciting fashion by abseiling from the top of the huge Tower Bridge installation, through the open drawbridge and onto the stage beside the New Discovery.

The finale was Land Rover BAR Team Principal Sir Ben Ainslie driving his sailing team through 900mm-deep water under the bridge – demonstrating the unrivalled capability and versatility of Land Rover’s new SUV. Sir Ben towed a LEGO replica of the Land Rover BAR boat, a 186,500-brick meticulous model of the boat that will challenge for next year’s America’s Cup. The model of Tower Bridge was flanked by two LEGO ‘Discovery Zones’ celebrating 27 years of Land Rover Discovery heritage. An Equestrian Zone, hosted by accomplished rider Zara Phillips, featured a typically British picnic scene made entirely from LEGO bricks. The Bear Grylls Adventure Zone included a LEGO fire and boulders to represent a scene from a typical mountain exploration.

New Discovery represents the next step in Land Rover’s journey of transformation from cogs to code and is designed, engineered and manufactured with the help of some of the 1,300 talented young engineers currently on

the company’s leading training programmes.

Jaguar Land Rover is one of UK's leading recruiter of graduates and apprentices: 3,000 have joined in the past six years and 400 new recruits have just started on the 2016 intake.

Bear Grylls said: “I have developed a powerful bond with Land Rover vehicles over the years and to me they embody that spirit of adventure coupled with a rugged reliability that also serves the needs of a young family. The Land Rover Discovery is invaluable on expeditions, whether filming in deserts, jungles or mountains, yet it’s still the perfect vehicle for the family's everyday use. It's a proud moment to be here with Land Rover revealing the New Discovery to the world.”

“New Discovery redefines the large SUV. Land Rover’s design and engineering teams have revolutionised the Discovery DNA to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV.” Emma Owen, LEGO UK and Ireland Spokeswoman, said: “We are thrilled that Jaguar Land Rover has used LEGO bricks to add some Guinness World Record-breaking creativity to the launch of the latest Discovery.

This is an epic, outstanding build that absolutely captures the imagination in a way we haven't seen before. With LEGO bricks and some imagination you really can build anything!”

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